Pakistan Builds Artificial Island In Arabian Sea Following Trump’s Oil Remark, Experts Warn Of Economic Risk

Business News: The initiative began after former US President Donald Trump said Pakistan might have large offshore oil reserves. While no official geological confirmation exists, the government has moved ahead rapidly. Reports say Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir instructed Pakistan Petroleum Limited to expand drilling efforts. Critics argue the decision appears based more on political motivation than scientific analysis.

Experts warn acting on assumptions could jeopardize national finances. The project has sparked widespread concern among energy analysts.

Why Is An Artificial Island Being Built Now?

Pakistan is constructing a six-foot-high artificial structure in the Arabian Sea, around 30 kilometers from Sujawal coast. The platform will allow 24-hour drilling without disruption from sea tides. Bloomberg reports claim construction will complete by February next year. Pakistan aims to drill nearly 25 wells from the site. The project will house staff on the platform to reduce logistics and transportation cost. Experts say this technology has been used in UAE, Japan and China but is new to Pakistan. Technical capability remains a major concern.

Has Past Oil Exploration Failed Repeatedly?

Pakistan has long claimed significant offshore oil deposits, but results have been disappointing. In 2019, drilling operations at ‘Kekra-1’ near Karachi cost billions of rupees and delivered no oil. Only seawater was detected, leading to withdrawal by global firms such as Exxon Mobil. Companies like Kuwait Petroleum, Shell and Total Energies also exited afterwards. Previous attempts included assistance from Chinese engineers with no success. Despite heavy expenditure, Pakistan still relies on oil imports for over 80 percent of its consumption. Experts caution history may repeat itself.

What Are Experts Saying About This Decision?

Energy analysts believe that even if oil is eventually found, extraction costs may exceed profit margins. They describe the artificial island project as financially risky with no proven data. Some warn that the country, already dependent on IMF aid, cannot afford losses. Construction without confirmed geological data is considered a dangerous economic leap. Specialists suggest Pakistan should invest in renewable energy or strategic imports. They also note global companies’ exit indicates lack of commercial viability.

Is Technology Modern But Risk Management Weak?

Although artificial island drilling is common in developed countries, it requires precise engineering and safety protocols. Pakistan has limited experience in offshore infrastructure development. The platform is being built to withstand high tides and support heavy machinery. Staff will live onsite to streamline operations. Experts say missing technical preparedness could lead to operational failure. Pakistan