IN a significant stride towards energy security, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has unveiled newfound gas reserves in Sindh, echoing the recent success of Mari Petroleum in the region. Established in 1950, PPL has steadfastly pursued its mission of exploring and extracting oil and natural gas to meet the nation’s growing energy demands.
The latest discovery, situated within the Latif Block of Khairpur district, marks a pivotal achievement for Pakistan’s energy sector. Commencing on May 5, 2024, the drilling operations descended to a depth of 3438 meters, ultimately yielding an impressive 11.27 million cubic feet of gas per day (MMscfd). This output is poised to significantly bolster Pakistan’s energy mix, where gas currently fulfils approximately 35% of the country’s energy requirements.
The strategic importance of this discovery cannot be overstated. With existing gas reserves depleting at a rapid pace, the timely identification of new resources assumes critical importance for sustaining industrial operations, enhancing transportation infrastructure and meeting domestic household needs. Historically, Pakistan has faced periodic gas shortages, particularly during peak demand seasons. Therefore, the discovery in the Latif Block comes as a welcome relief, promising to alleviate supply constraints and foster economic stability.
Beyond immediate economic benefits, the discovery holds promise for expanding Pakistan’s hydrocarbon reserves. This not only strengthens national energy security but also enhances the country’s capacity to meet future energy demands. Moreover, the localization of gas production reduces dependency on costly imports, thereby conserving foreign exchange reserves and bolstering economic resilience.
Pakistan’s natural gas reservoirs are predominantly concentrated in Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. Sindh alone hosts extraction operations at 13 distinct sites, underscoring its pivotal role in the country’s energy landscape. Recent ventures by leading exploration companies like Mari Petroleum and Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) have further augmented Pakistan’s gas reserves. Mari Petroleum’s success in the Gazhi formation of Sindh, yielding an additional 5 MMscfd and OGDCL’s revival of production at Kanwa North in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are testament to the sector’s dynamism and potential.
Looking ahead, the discovery in Khairpur district not only promises to enhance Pakistan’s energy security but also signifies a step towards sustainable economic growth. By harnessing its abundant natural resources effectively, Pakistan can mitigate the impact of global economic fluctuations, ensure energy sovereignty and pave the way for a resilient future.
The unveiling of new gas reserves in Sindh by PPL marks a transformative moment for Pakistan’s energy sector. As the nation continues to navigate economic challenges, such discoveries provide a beacon of hope, reinforcing Pakistan’s position as a significant player in the global energy landscape.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Turbat, Balochistan.
