The history of oil exploration and production in Pakistan dates back to the early 20th century. Pakistan's first oil discovery occurred in 1915 in the Punjab region. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that significant exploration began in earnest. The discovery of oil in the Sui gas field in 1952 marked a pivotal moment, as it led to further exploration and development in the region.
In the early days, Pakistan's oil industry experienced rapid growth. The country's oil fields were mainly concentrated in the Punjab and Sindh regions. By the 1980s, the oil industry was a vital part of the national economy, with numerous fields being actively explored and developed. At that time, there were several active oil fields and derricks scattered across the country, reflecting the optimism and potential that characterized the industry during that period.
As of the early 1980s, there were around 60 active oil fields in Pakistan, with numerous oil derricks in operation. The oil production landscape has changed considerably over the decades. Today, the number of active oil fields has declined, with the current number of fields being around 40. This decrease is due to a combination of factors including the depletion of older fields, changes in exploration and production technology, and shifts in the global energy market.
The decline in the prominence of oil in Pakistan's energy sector can be attributed to the discovery of larger gas reserves and a shift towards alternative energy sources. The country's largest and most significant oil fields include the Meyal, Dunga Bunga, and Khewra fields. The Meyal field, located in Punjab, has been a major contributor to Pakistan's oil production, although its output has diminished over time. The Dunga Bunga field, also in Punjab, has similar historical importance but has seen reduced production levels in recent years. The Khewra field, while primarily known for its salt production, has also contributed to the oil output in the past.
The estimated time until Pakistan's oil reserves are depleted is difficult to pinpoint precisely. However, current projections suggest that if the existing production rates and consumption patterns continue, the significant oil fields could last for several decades. The depletion timeline is influenced by various factors, including the rate of exploration for new reserves, technological advancements in extraction, and shifts in global energy demands.
In terms of production, Pakistan's oil fields currently produce a modest amount compared to global standards. The largest oil fields, such as Meyal and Dunga Bunga, contribute several thousand barrels per day, but the overall production capacity has decreased from its peak levels. The focus has shifted towards gas production, with fields like Sui and Qadirpur becoming more prominent in the national energy landscape.
In summary, while Pakistan's oil industry has a rich history, its role in the country's energy sector has diminished over time. The number of active oil fields has decreased from around 60 in the 1980s to about 40 today. Major oil fields like Meyal and Dunga Bunga have seen reduced production, and the country is gradually shifting its focus towards gas and alternative energy sources. The depletion of oil reserves is projected to take several decades, depending on various factors influencing exploration and production.
Field Acronyms
EUR_MMBOE = Estimated ultimate recovery in million barrels of oil equivalent
Giant oil and gas fields = those with 500 million barrels (79,000,000 m3) of ultimately recoverable oil or gas equivalent.
Super giant oil field = holds equivalent of 5.5bn barrels of oil reserves.
Mari Field, Pakistan, Discovered 1957, Giant Field
Qadirpur Field, Pakistan, Discovered 1990, Giant Field
Sui Field, Pakistan, Discovered 1952, Giant Field
Uch Field, Pakistan, Discovered 1955, Giant Field
Zargun South Field, Pakistan, Discovered 1998, Giant Field
Data Source: Dr. M. K. (Mike) Horn/AAPG Datapages compilation