Karachi, September 25, 2024 – The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) has announced a significant gas discovery in the Sawan South Block at the Akhiro-1 Exploratory Well located in the Khairpur district of Sindh. This new find is expected to bolster Pakistan’s energy sector and contribute to the country’s growing demand for indigenous energy resources.
In an official communication shared with the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Wednesday, OGDCL revealed that the Sawan South Joint Venture, consisting of OGDCL (holding a 20% working interest), United Energy Pakistan Limited (UEPL) as the Operator (75% interest), Government Holding Private Limited (GHPL) (2.5%), and Sindh Energy Holding Limited (SEHL) (2.5%), has made this successful gas discovery from the Lower Goru B Reservoir Sand at the Akhiro-1 well.
The exploratory well, Akhiro-1, was spudded-in on June 15, 2024, and has since been drilled to a total depth of 12,442 feet. Upon testing, the well demonstrated promising results, producing approximately 10 Million Standard Cubic Feet per Day (MMSCFD) of gas at a choke size of 24/64 inches. The wellhead flowing pressure (WHFP) registered at an impressive 4,000 pounds per square inch (Psig), confirming the well’s capacity for substantial gas output.
This discovery has unlocked new potential for further exploration within the Sawan South Block, de-risking additional exploratory ventures in the area. The positive results from Akhiro-1 underscore the prospectivity of the region, signaling further opportunities for hydrocarbon exploration and development.
Strategic Importance for Pakistan’s Energy Sector:
The OGDCL emphasized the significance of this gas discovery in the context of Pakistan’s energy security. As the country continues to rely heavily on imported energy, the discovery of new indigenous gas resources is vital for reducing dependence on foreign imports, stabilizing energy prices, and enhancing the overall security of supply. The discovery in Khairpur is expected to directly contribute to meeting the growing domestic demand for natural gas while adding to the national hydrocarbon reserves base.
Collaboration and Future Potential:
The joint venture structure of the Sawan South Block highlights the collaborative approach being taken in the exploration of Pakistan’s hydrocarbon resources. With United Energy Pakistan Limited as the lead operator, and OGDCL, GHPL, and SEHL as key partners, the venture benefits from pooled expertise and resources, paving the way for more successful discoveries in the future.
This latest find underscores OGDCL’s commitment to harnessing Pakistan’s indigenous energy resources and its continued role as a key player in the country’s energy landscape. The company is expected to continue its efforts to explore, develop, and contribute to the country’s energy security from domestic sources.
