Pakistan Makes Historic Hydrocarbon Discovery in Sindh

Pateji X-1 Exploration Well Yielded 11.7 Million Standard Cubic Feet per Day of Gas and 198 Barrels per Day of Condensate

Pakistani petroleum company, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), has announced a significant breakthrough in the Shah Bandar Block in Sindh, marking its third consecutive discovery in the area under PPL's operatorship.

According to a statement issued by the company, the recent drill at Pateji X-1 exploration well yielded impressive results. The well was drilled to a depth of 2,475 meters and struck hydrocarbon-bearing zones. The team tested gas and condensate reserves, with a flow rate exceeding 11.7 million standard cubic feet per day of natural gas.

"We are thrilled about the successful discovery in the Shah Bandar Block," said Dr Arshad Jurardar, Vice President Oil Exploration at PPL. "This achievement underscores our commitment to driving national energy self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on imported energy sources."

PPL operates the Shah Bandar Block with a 63% working interest, alongside Mari Petroleum Company (32%), Sindh Energy Holding Company (2.5%), and Government Holdings (Private) Company (2.5%).

The discovery of hydrocarbons in this region is expected to make a substantial contribution to Pakistan's energy security. With the current reliance on costly oil imports, these reserves are expected to alleviate pressure and provide vital economic and monetary benefits.

Government officials have lauded the development as a major step forward for the nation, emphasizing that sustained exploration efforts would contribute to sustained growth of domestic energy resources.

Other regional players such as MOL Pakistan and Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDCL), have also reported discoveries in their respective blocks in the region.