Pakistan’s efforts to enhance domestic energy production received a boost as Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDC) announced a significant oil and gas discovery in Kohat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, strengthening the country’s indigenous resource base at the start of the New Year.
The discovery was made at the Baragzai X-01 (Slant) exploratory well, drilled under the Nashpa Exploration Licence, where OGDC operates with a 65 percent working interest. The joint venture also includes Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) holding 30 percent working interest, and Government Holding (Private) Limited (GHPL) with a five percent carried interest.
According to OGDC, the hydrocarbons were discovered in the Datta Formation following a targeted exploration campaign in the Nashpa Block. The well was spudded on December 30, 2024, and drilled down to a total depth of 5,170 metres, penetrating the Kingriali Formation.
Subsequent evaluation based on open-hole wireline log data led to a Cased Hole Drill Stem Test (DST-02) in the Datta Formation. Test results confirmed commercially viable flows, with the well currently producing 4,100 barrels of oil per day and 10.5 million standard cubic feet per day of gas.
The production was achieved using a 32/64-inch choke, with a wellhead flowing pressure of 3,880 PSI, indicating strong reservoir performance and commercial potential.
Industry officials noted that the discovery would help reduce reliance on imported fuels by adding fresh domestic oil and gas volumes, while also enhancing OGDC’s reserve portfolio. The find aligns with national efforts to narrow the energy supply-demand gap and improve long-term energy security.
OGDC reiterated its commitment to sustained exploration activities, emphasizing that continued discoveries are critical for ensuring stable energy supplies and supporting broader economic stability.
