Pakistan’s White Oil Pipeline project set to begin after key approvals

The Machike–Thallian–Tarru Jabba White Oil Pipeline (WOP), a landmark infrastructure initiative aimed at reinforcing Pakistan’s energy security, is set to move forward soon after the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) successfully secured critical approvals from relevant ministries and departments.

According to the SIFC, the project has remained a top priority on its agenda. The Memorandum of Understanding signed under its framework underscores efforts to boost foreign collaboration and streamline investment flows into Pakistan’s vital energy sector.

Through close coordination with stakeholders, the council said it helped resolve major procedural bottlenecks and facilitated the required clearances, paving the way for tangible progress on the strategically significant project.

Once operational, the White Oil Pipeline will create a crucial north–south corridor for the transportation of petroleum products across the country.

The project is expected to significantly enhance fuel distribution efficiency, reduce dependence on road-based tankers, lower logistics expenses, cut fuel losses, and strengthen overall supply chain reliability.

The pipeline forms part of a broader effort to extend Pakistan’s oil transportation network from Karachi to Khyber, enabling the safer and more efficient movement of motor gasoline and high-speed diesel while reducing risks associated with long-haul tanker transport.

Spanning approximately 477 kilometres, the pipeline will extend from Machike to Tarujabba via Thallian, running alongside the motorway and connecting key points including Attock Refinery, Chakpirana, and Faqirabad.

The project is being spearheaded by the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO). A consortium comprising FWO, Pakistan State Oil (PSO), and Inter-State Gas Systems (ISGS) has been formed under an MoU, while Frontier Oil Company (FOC-I) serves as the project entity. Azerbaijan’s state-owned SOCAR also holds a 25% stake in the venture.