Energy Boost: Government Awards 11 New Oil and Gas Exploration Blocks

The federal government formally awarded 11 onshore oil and gas exploration blocks across Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan. The Petroleum Division signed Petroleum Concession Agreements (PCAs) and Exploration Licenses (ELs) in a ceremony led by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik. The move aims to tap into domestic energy resources to reduce the country’s heavy reliance on expensive fuel imports.

The awarded blocks are concentrated primarily in Balochistan, which secured eight sites, followed by two in Sindh and one in Punjab. Major local firms, mostly state-owned, dominated the bidding process. Mari Energies emerged as a key player, securing operatorship for six blocks, while the Oil and Gas Development Company Ltd (OGDCL) will lead three. Other partners include Pakistan Petroleum Ltd (PPL), Pakistan Oilfields Ltd (POL), and Prime Global Energies.

Successful bidders have committed a minimum investment of over $31 million (Rs 8.66 billion) for exploration activities over the next three years. Additionally, the companies have pledged more than Rs 276 million for social welfare projects in the local communities where the blocks are located. Officials noted that if commercial discoveries are made, further investments totaling hundreds of millions of dollars are expected for field development, providing a significant boost to Pakistan’s energy security.

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