Karachi, January 11, 2024 – Pakistan has taken a significant stride in its quest for energy security by awarding new exploration blocks to prominent oil and gas development companies operating within the country.
The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), a key player in Pakistan’s energy sector, revealed in a communication to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Thursday that it successfully participated in the competitive bidding round for exploration blocks conducted by the government in November 2023.
The Directorate General of Petroleum Concessions (DGPC) has officially communicated the provisional award of new exploration blocks to OGDCL, along with fellow industry giants Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) and Pakistan Oilfield Limited (POL). These blocks were granted based on the work units committed by OGDCL and its Joint Venture (JV) partners.
The details of the exploration blocks provisionally awarded to OGDCL are outlined below:
| Block Name | Province | Working Interest | JV Partners Working Interest |
| Kotra East (2867-8) | Balochistan | OGDCL (100 percent) Operator | – |
| Murradi (2767-7) | Sindh | OGDCL (100 percent) Operator | – |
| Gambat-II (2668-25) | Sindh | OGDCL (30 percent) | PPL (70 percent) Operator |
| Saruna West (2666-1) | Balochistan | OGDCL (30 percent) | POL (40 percent) Operator, PPL (30 percent) |
OGDCL emphasized that their participation in the bidding round aligns with the company’s strategic objectives and business plan to invest in its core business, expedite exploratory activities, and bolster its hydrocarbon reserves.
This move signifies the government’s commitment to encouraging exploration and production activities in the country, aiming to discover new sources of oil and gas. It not only reinforces Pakistan’s position in the global energy market but also augurs well for the domestic economy, creating opportunities for employment, investment, and technological advancement.
The allocation of exploration blocks is a crucial step toward harnessing Pakistan’s untapped energy potential, providing a boost to the national energy reserves. OGDCL, as a major contributor to the country’s energy sector, is poised to play a pivotal role in the exploration and development of these blocks, contributing to Pakistan’s energy security and fostering economic growth.
As the awarded companies embark on their exploration endeavors, the industry and stakeholders eagerly anticipate the outcomes that could potentially reshape the energy landscape of Pakistan, ensuring a sustainable and robust energy future for the nation.
