Local officials in Herat say that despite the cold winter weather, work on the TAPI pipeline project is ongoing, and more than 90 kilometers of land have been prepared for pipeline installation.
They report that 15 kilometers of the pipeline have already been completed, and the remaining sections are expected to be finished soon.
Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi, spokesperson for the Herat governor, said: “With the efforts of the Islamic Emirate’s officials, the TAPI project is progressing rapidly and seriously. So far, 91 kilometers of land have been prepared for the pipeline, and according to the plan, the project is expected to reach Herat city by the end of 2026.”
At the same time, economic analysts say the TAPI project could lead to major economic transformation in Afghanistan.
Economist Mohammad Dawood Norzai said: “TAPI gas is crucial for supplying energy to both industrial factories and residential homes. It could help resolve Afghanistan’s energy shortage.”
Another economist, Sayed Agha Farzan, stated: “As the TAPI pipeline passes through Herat, it will create job opportunities for Afghans and allow them to benefit from the project.”
Many citizens also expressed happiness over the project’s progress.
University professor Jalaluddin Qaderi said: “We hope that through the efforts of Herat’s local administration, and with the support of central authorities and the public, we will soon witness the full implementation of this project.”
Herat resident Mohammad Rafi Haydari said: “We hope this project opens soon and provides the gas we need. For our comfort, we rely on gas for 70% of our energy use.”
The practical work on the TAPI project began last year in Herat. Although the previous government officially inaugurated the project, its implementation had been delayed for years. The Islamic Emirate now says it is committed to completing the project according to the original plan.
