ISLAMABAD: The government on Thursday awarded 11 onshore oil and gas blocks to major domestic players, securing over Rs8.66 billion in committed investments and more than Rs276 million for local social welfare projects, marking a significant push to boost domestic energy production and reduce reliance on imports.
The Petroleum Concession Agreements (PCAs) and Exploration Licences (ELs) were signed by the Petroleum Division, with Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik calling the move a milestone in attracting investment and expanding upstream exploration. Eight blocks are in Balochistan, two in Sindh, and one in Punjab.
Key operators include Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Mari Energies Limited, Pakistan Oilfields Limited (POL), and Prime Global Energies. MariEnergies will serve as operator for six blocks, securing 100 per cent working interest in Padag, Chagai, Dalbandin, Merui, and Merui West, and leading Ahmad Wal block with a 60pc working interest alongside OGDCL holding 40pc.
OGDCL will operate three blocks, including Kalat North with 100pc working interest, and will lead two joint venture blocks: Naing Sharif, where OGDCL holds 70pc and Prime 30pc, and Khiu-II with OGDCL at 60pc and MariEnergies at 40pc.
PPL emerged as the highest bidder for the Kalat South block and will operate it with a 40pc working interest in partnership with OGDCL (30pc) and MariEnergies (30pc). POL secured the Jherruk block with 100pc working interest.
