Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) and the Polish Oil and Gas Company (POGC) have found natural gas at the Rafat-1 exploratory well in the Kirthar Block, located in District Dadu, Sindh. This discovery is seen as a positive step towards improving Pakistan’s energy security.
The Rafat-1 well was drilled to a depth of 2,514 meters. Initially, the well faced challenges due to tight reservoir conditions, which made it difficult to extract gas. However, after using a process called hydraulic fracturing to increase productivity, the well began producing gas at a rate of 1.10 million standard cubic feet per day (MMScfd). It now has a flowing wellhead pressure of approximately 110 psi.
While the discovery is not large, it is still valuable. It highlights the efforts of both companies to explore and utilize domestic energy resources. POGC is leading the project with a 70% working interest, while PPL holds a 30% stake.
The successful operation at Rafat-1 shows how modern techniques like hydraulic fracturing can overcome challenging conditions to extract natural gas. Such discoveries contribute to reducing the country’s reliance on imported energy and support the local economy.
Energy experts see this as a step in the right direction for Pakistan’s energy sector. Collaborative efforts between local and international companies are crucial for further exploration and development. The PPL-POGC partnership is an example of how strategic investments and technological advancements can help meet Pakistan’s growing energy demands.
