In a significant move amid the global energy crisis, Pakistan has activated its first horizontal oil well, marking a milestone in the country’s energy sector.
The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited announced that its well, named “PASAKHI 13,” located in the Hyderabad district, has begun producing approximately 460 barrels of oil per day.
OGDCL stated that the well was drilled to a total depth of 2,966 metres, featuring a 546-metre horizontal section designed to optimise access to underground oil reserves. Advanced technologies, including geo-steering and ESP technology, are being used to improve extraction efficiency.
Experts highlight that horizontal drilling can significantly increase output compared to conventional vertical wells, potentially producing up to three times more oil.
This achievement has been facilitated by policy support from the Special Investment Facility Council and the promotion of modern technology. Officials say the increase in local oil production could reduce Pakistan’s dependence on imported petroleum products, easing pressure on foreign exchange reserves and strengthening energy security.
According to OGDCL, the support provided by SIFC to introduce modern extraction technology has been instrumental in completing the project, a success that could pave the way for future horizontal drilling initiatives.
