Pakistan Strikes “Black Gold” Jackpot: Third Oil Discovery in a Month Boosts Production

Islamabad: Pakistan has struck another major oil reserve in its Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, marking the third discovery within a single month and significantly boosting the nation’s crude oil output.

New Oil and Gas Reserves Unveiled

The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Pakistan’s state-owned energy company, announced the discovery at its Baragzai well in Kohat district. The well is now producing:

• 3,100 barrels of crude oil per day
• 8.15 million cubic feet of natural gas daily

According to OGDCL, the production is measured through a 32/64-inch choke at a wellhead flowing pressure of 3,010 pounds per square inch gauge (PSIG).

Third Discovery in Just One Month

This marks OGDCL’s third significant find in a month. Earlier in January, discoveries were reported in the Datta Formation, while the first announcement was made last month. The latest finds are expected to strengthen Pakistan’s hydrocarbon reserves and reduce dependency on expensive imports.

Surge in Domestic Oil Production

The three recent discoveries have collectively increased Pakistan’s crude output by 9,480 barrels per day, a 14.5% rise over the current production of approximately 66,000 barrels per day. OGDCL emphasized that these discoveries will help balance domestic energy supply and demand while enhancing the country’s energy security.

Strategic Significance Amid Economic Crisis

The discoveries come at a time when Pakistan is grappling with an economic crisis and is keen to boost domestic oil and gas production. To accelerate exploration, the government has:

• Signed five new deals with local public and private firms for developing three offshore and two onshore blocks
• Conducted an auction in November 2025 for 40 offshore blocks, winning 23 bids from four consortia, which have committed $8 million for the exploration phase, with potential investments reaching $1 billion in subsequent development stages

These developments signal a major leap forward for Pakistan’s energy sector, potentially transforming the country’s domestic oil and gas production landscape.