Special Report
ISLAMABAD:
The economic situation in the country has taken a toll on the operations of the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), as gas production from its fields continues to dwindle.
The company’s struggle has allowed Mari Petroleum, another Exploration and Production (E&P) company, to surpass OGDCL and become the leading gas producer in the country.
According to sources, OGDCL, once regarded as the pioneer in gas production, has experienced a decline in its gas production in recent months. The company’s fields are currently producing approximately 7.5 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD), while Mari Petroleum has successfully increased its production to over 8 MMCFD. This significant shift in rankings has placed Mari Petroleum as the number one E&P company engaged in gas production in the country.
In an unexpected move that seems contradictory to the government’s austerity measures, the newly appointed Managing Director (MD) of OGDCL has sanctioned an additional salary for all the employees of the company. This decision, made without any apparent reason or consideration of performance, has raised eyebrows among critics who question its alignment with the ruling coalition government’s efforts to save revenue.
Under the MD’s directive, a staggering amount of Rs 1 billion and 5 crore is set to be disbursed among all OGDCL employees. This decision has sparked controversy, particularly due to the MD’s junior grade designation and the lack of a clear justification for the additional salary, given the company’s reduced performance.
Meanwhile, Mari Petroleum’s success can be attributed to their bold ventures in drilling gas wells across various terrains. The company’s relentless pursuit of exploration and production opportunities has paid off, propelling them to become one of the largest gas producers in the country.
As the news of OGDCL’s declining gas production and the controversial decision regarding employee salaries circulates, concerns are mounting about the future of the company. Industry experts and stakeholders are urging the newly appointed MD to address the challenges faced by OGDCL promptly. It remains crucial for the company to regain its leading position in gas production and implement strategies that align with the government’s austerity measures.
The economic impact of these developments, coupled with the evolving dynamics within the energy sector, emphasizes the need for decisive actions and strategic planning to ensure the stability and growth of OGDCL.