Sindh’s High Stakes in Oil and Gas

Article Type

Article

Description

The article examines Sindh’s role in Pakistan’s oil and gas sector and the constitutional, financial, and political tensions tied to resource exploration. Sindh currently produces 23 percent of Pakistan’s oil and 67 percent of its gas, fueling its demand for a greater share in the NFC Award. Disputes have intensified as federal claims on offshore resources clash with provincial expectations, especially under Article 158 and the 18th Amendment. High costs and low success rates have hindered offshore exploration, but recent optimism about reserves near Karachi has reignited debates. Key issues include ownership rights beyond 30 nautical miles, employment of locals in exploration zones, and whether future reserves will alter the balance of power between the centre and provinces. The article argues that resolving jurisdictional ambiguities, ensuring fair distribution of benefits, and fostering trust are crucial before large-scale exploration can succeed.

Publication Source

Dawn

Publication Date

5-5-2019

Pages

online

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