Context:
The ongoing West Asia crisis has disrupted global energy supplies, highlighting India’s dependence on imported hydrocarbons. This has renewed focus on cross-border pipeline projects like the IPI and TAPI pipelines.
Iran–Pakistan–India (IPI) Pipeline
- A proposed 2,775 km natural gas pipeline
- Connects Iran’s South Pars gas field to Pakistan and India
- Also known as the “Peace Pipeline”
Key Features
1. Objective
- Provide cost-effective gas supply
- Reduce reliance on expensive LNG imports
2. Capacity
- 60 mmscmd each for:
- India
- Pakistan
3. Strategic Significance
- Promote:
- Regional cooperation
- Economic interdependence
- Link:
- Energy-rich Persian Gulf
- Energy-deficient South Asia
Current Status
- Dormant / Stalled
Reasons for India’s Exit (2007)
- U.S. sanctions pressure (CAATSA concerns)
- Pricing disagreements
- Security concerns (route via Balochistan)
