Karachi, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), in partnership with several joint venture partners, has made a significant gas and condensate discovery in the Shah Bandar Block in District Sujawal, Sindh. This discovery at the Jhim East X-1 well marks the second major find in this block and is expected to contribute to the country's energy reserves.
According to Pakistan Petroleum Limited, the exploration well Jhim East X-1, operated by PPL with a 63 percent working interest, was spud on October 8, 2023, and reached a depth of 2,545 meters. The well was drilled to test the hydrocarbon potential of the upper sands of the Lower Goru formation. The joint venture includes Mari Petroleum Company Limited with a 32 percent working interest, while Sindh Energy Holding Company Limited and Government Holdings (Private) Limited each hold a 2.5 percent working interest.
The drilling results and wireline logs indicated the presence of potential hydrocarbon-bearing zones. Subsequent testing of the Lower Goru upper sand (A sand) yielded a flow of 13.69 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscfd) of gas and 236 barrels per day of condensate. The wellhead flowing pressure was recorded at 2,668 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) with a 32/64" choke setting. Further evaluation of the well is underway to gather more data on its performance and potential.
The discovery at Jhim East X-1 was achieved using indigenous expertise, highlighting the local capabilities in hydrocarbon exploration and extraction. This new discovery is anticipated to bolster the country's hydrocarbon reserves and play a vital role in bridging the gap between energy supply and demand in Pakistan.