The latest OGDCL oil and gas discovery in the Nashpa Block, district Kohat, has opened a new chapter for Pakistan’s energy sector, offering fresh hope for strengthening domestic fuel supplies. Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) confirmed the significant find at its exploratory well Baragzai X-01 (Slant), marking the first time hydrocarbons have been discovered from the Kingriali Formation within this block.
OGDCL revealed that the well has successfully flowed 2,280 barrels of oil per day along with 5.6 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, through a 32/64 choke at a wellhead flowing pressure of 2400 psi. This performance makes the OGDCL oil and gas discovery one of the most notable achievements in Pakistan’s recent exploration efforts.
The Baragzai X-01 (Slant) well was spud-in on December 24, 2024, and drilled to a depth of 5,170 meters into the Triassic-age Kingriali Formation. A 90-meter reservoir interval was encountered, followed by a successful cased hole drill stem test that confirmed commercial hydrocarbon potential. According to OGDCL, encouraging hydrocarbon shows and detailed open-hole wireline log interpretations supported the decision to test the formation.
This latest OGDCL oil and gas discovery is being hailed as a significant milestone, not only because it expands the company’s reserves but also because it helps de-risk deeper exploration prospects in the Kohat region. As Pakistan continues to battle an increasing supply-demand gap in the energy sector, the discovery offers relief and underlines the importance of tapping indigenous resources.
The Nashpa Exploration License is operated by OGDCL, which holds a 65% working interest. The joint venture partners include Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) with a 30% interest and Government Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL) with a 5% carried interest. Together, the partners expect the new hydrocarbons to contribute meaningfully to national energy stability once fully developed.
Beyond immediate production figures, the OGDCL oil and gas discovery holds broader strategic implications. Pakistan’s reliance on imported fuel continues to strain foreign exchange reserves and push energy tariffs upward. In this situation, local discoveries are essential for economic resilience, long-term energy security, and reduced dependence on global market fluctuations.
Moreover, the successful drilling at Baragzai X-01 signals technological and geological advancements in local exploration. Discoveries from deeper and older formations such as the Kingriali demonstrate that Pakistan’s subsurface still holds untapped potential. This encourages further investment in exploration by both public and private sector operators, strengthening confidence in the country’s energy landscape.
OGDCL emphasized that the new discovery will help supplement national hydrocarbon resources, benefiting not only the company but also its joint venture partners and the country as a whole. With Pakistan experiencing steady industrial expansion and rising household demand, such new sources of energy are vital for economic stability.
The timing of the OGDCL oil and gas discovery is also important, as the government continues to push for reforms and modernisation in the energy sector. Increasing domestic production aligns with broader national goals of reducing circular debt, lowering import dependency, and ensuring a stable supply for power generation industries.
Experts believe that continued discoveries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the Kohat and Karak regions, could transform the province into a major energy hub. Nashpa Block has already been one of Pakistan’s strongest producing regions, and this new find further cements its importance.
In addition, successful exploration projects create employment opportunities, strengthen local economies, and support the development of surrounding areas. Improved infrastructure, increased investment, and enhanced resource utilisation are among the expected long-term benefits.
For OGDCL, the discovery strengthens its position as Pakistan’s leading exploration and production company. It highlights the company’s operational capabilities, strategic exploration planning, and commitment to expanding the country’s natural resource base through indigenous efforts.
As the OGDCL oil and gas discovery progresses toward development and production stages, Pakistan can look forward to improved energy availability and reduced import pressure. Though challenges remain—such as upgrading infrastructure, ensuring robust security in exploration zones, and managing pricing mechanisms—the discovery marks a promising step forward.
In conclusion, the Baragzai X-01 (Slant) find represents more than just a successful drilling operation it is a vital achievement for Pakistan’s energy future. The OGDCL oil and gas discovery reaffirms the nation’s potential for sustainable energy development and strengthens hopes for a more stable, secure, and self-reliant energy sector.
