Pakistan Makes Significant Hydrocarbon Discovery in Shah Bandar Block

Karachi, Pakistan - In a major breakthrough for the country's oil and gas sector, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has announced a significant hydrocarbon discovery in the Shah Bandar Block in Sindh.

The discovery, made at the Pateji X-1 exploration well, drilled to a depth of 2,475m, is expected to contribute substantially to Pakistan's energy security and alleviate the ongoing energy crisis. The well was spud on October 11, 2024, targeting the upper sands of the Lower Goru Formation.

Testing revealed hydrocarbon-bearing zones, with a flow rate of 11.7 million standard cubic feet per day of gas and 198 barrels per day of condensate under a wellhead flowing pressure of 2,578psig (pounds per square inch gauge) at a 32/64in choke.

The finding marks the third consecutive discovery in the Shah Bandar Block under PPL's operatorship, enhancing its reputation in oil and gas exploration. The company operates the block with a 63% working interest, alongside joint venture partners Mari Petroleum Company (32%), Sindh Energy Holding Company (2.5%), and Government Holdings (Private) (2.5%).

PPL attributes its technical expertise in drilling and testing as pivotal to this discovery, demonstrating the company's strong operational capabilities.

The addition of the newly discovered hydrocarbon reserves is expected to bolster Pakistan's energy infrastructure, reduce dependence on costly energy imports, and help preserve valuable foreign exchange reserves.

This significant discovery comes amid reports of rival oil companies making similar discoveries in other parts of the country. MOL Pakistan and Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDCL) have also made notable gas discoveries recently, further cementing the significance of this find.

As the country continues to grapple with energy insecurity, this discovery is expected to have far-reaching implications for Pakistan's energy landscape.