Efforts accelerate to kickstart CASA-1000 power project

KABUL (Khaama Press): The Taliban administration has intensified efforts to begin the implementation of the CASA-1000 project in Afghanistan.

Engineer Farhad Mahmoudi, head of the Energy and Water Ministry’s programs, announced on Saturday, August 3rd, that they are nearing an agreement with the World Bank to commence the project’s practical work.

The CASA-1000 project involves the transmission of electricity from Central Asia through Afghanistan to Pakistan. The high-voltage transmission line will traverse seven provinces and 35 districts in Afghanistan before reaching Pakistan.

Upon completion, this project is expected to benefit thousands of families in Afghanistan with electricity and generate tens of millions of dollars annually from electricity transit fees.

While construction of the project in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Pakistan is nearing completion, the practical work in Afghanistan has yet to begin, despite the World Bank’s agreement to proceed.

The project is valued at $1.2 billion, with $360 million allocated for Afghanistan and $260 million already funded by the World Bank under the previous government.

The delay in starting the CASA-1000 project exacerbates the ongoing electricity shortage in Afghanistan, which continues to affect daily life and economic stability. The lack of reliable electricity supply is a major challenge for businesses and households, impacting productivity and quality of life.

Addressing the electricity shortage is crucial for Afghanistan’s development and stability. The timely execution of the CASA-1000 project could play a significant role in alleviating the energy crisis by providing a more stable and sustainable power supply, which is essential for the country’s economic growth and development.