Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen its energy supply received a modest but important boost after a joint venture led by Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDC) confirmed gas production from an exploratory well in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The appraisal at the Bilitang-1 ST-1 well in the TAL Block, Kohat, shows the area still holds promising reserves, with steady gas flow recorded during testing.
The development was shared by OGDC along with its partners, including MOL Pakistan, Pakistan Petroleum Limited, Pakistan Oilfields Limited, and Government Holdings (Private) Limited. The well, which was spud in August last year, was later sidetracked to reach better-quality reservoirs before being drilled to a depth of over 4,000 metres.
According to initial testing results, the well produced around 26.5 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, along with small traces of condensate, from the Lumshiwal Formation. Officials say the findings not only confirm the presence of hydrocarbons but also reduce uncertainty around further exploration in the TAL Block.
The TAL Block has long been considered one of Pakistan’s key hydrocarbon-producing zones, contributing significantly to domestic gas output over the years. Discoveries and appraisals in this region are closely watched, especially at a time when the country is struggling with gas shortages, rising import bills, and increasing pressure on its energy infrastructure.
