Dolphin X-1 produces 0.942 MMscfd of gas, while initial condensate recovery points to further hydrocarbon potential
KARACHI, August 17, 2026: Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has announced a gas discovery from its Dolphin X-1 exploration well in the Sirani Exploration Licence in Sindh province, marking a new exploration development in the region.
PPL, the operator of the Sirani Exploration Licence with a 75% working interest, made the discovery in partnership with Government Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL), which holds the remaining 25% working interest.
According to a communication submitted to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), the Dolphin X-1 well is located in District Sujawal, Sindh, and was spudded as an exploratory well on April 17, 2026.
The well was drilled to a measured depth of 3,850 metres to assess the hydrocarbon potential of the Chiltan Formation.
Dolphin X-1 produces 0.942 MMscfd gas
Drilling results and open-hole log data identified hydrocarbon-bearing intervals in the well.
During post-acid testing of the Chiltan Formation, Dolphin X-1 produced good-quality gas at a rate of 0.942 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscfd).
The gas had a heating value of approximately 1,000 Btu/scf and flowed at a wellhead flowing pressure of 211 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) through a 32/64-inch choke.
The results indicate the presence of commercially relevant hydrocarbon potential within the targeted formation, although further evaluation will be required to determine the broader significance of the discovery.
Condensate recovered during testing
PPL also reported the recovery of condensate during pre-acid testing of the formation.
The initial condensate flow was recorded at 94 barrels per day (BPD). However, the rate declined to 46 BPD within 24 hours, while no condensate was observed during subsequent post-acid testing.
The company said the initial presence of condensate provides an encouraging indication of hydrocarbon potential in the Chiltan Formation and warrants further exploration and evaluation.
Discovery opens new exploration frontier
PPL said the discovery has established the presence of a petroleum system in the area and opened a new exploration frontier across the onshore marshy region and its possible extensions into shallow offshore areas.
The development could provide opportunities for further exploration and evaluation of hydrocarbon resources in Sujawal and adjoining areas.
PPL submitted the disclosure to the PSX in compliance with Section 96 of the Securities Act, 2015 and Clause 5.6.1 of the Pakistan Stock Exchange Limited Regulations.
The Dolphin X-1 discovery adds to Pakistan’s domestic oil and gas exploration efforts and could help improve understanding of the hydrocarbon potential of the Sirani licence area.