At the start of the new year, Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) and Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) have made a significant oil and gas discovery in Kohat district, marking another milestone for the country’s energy sector.

According to OGDCL, a large oil and gas reserve has been discovered at the Baragzai X-1 well in Kohat district.

The well is expected to produce 3,100 barrels of oil per day along with 81.5 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, adding substantial output to domestic production.

OGDCL holds a 65% working interest in the Baragzai X-1 well, while PPL owns 30%. The remaining 5% stake is held by Government Holdings (Private) Limited, officials confirmed.

Third discovery in less than a month

This is the third oil and gas discovery in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa made by OGDCL and PPL in less than a month, highlighting an encouraging start to the new year for Pakistan’s exploration sector.

Both exploration companies have formally informed their shareholders about the latest development through official disclosures.

Reports indicate that a combined 9,500 barrels of oil have been discovered from three separate discoveries in KP since the beginning of the year.

In addition, around 24.2 million standard cubic feet of gas have also been discovered from these three finds, significantly boosting regional energy potential.

More discoveries expected in Hangu

Energy experts believe that further oil and gas discoveries are likely in the coming weeks.

They expect new finds from the Lockhart Formation and Lamshiwal Formation located in Hangu district, as exploration activity continues in the area.

Positive outlook for energy sector

The back-to-back discoveries are being seen as a positive sign for Pakistan’s oil and gas sector, which has long struggled with declining production and rising imports.

Industry officials say sustained exploration success could help reduce energy import dependence and strengthen the national economy.