PPL strikes 1st-ever Chiltan formation gas find in Sindh

The discovery was made at the Dolphin X-1 exploratory well, where PPL identified hydrocarbons in the Chiltan Formation of the Lower Indus Basin

KARACHI: Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has announced a significant hydrocarbon discovery at its operated Sarani Block in Sindh’s Sujawal district, opening fresh prospects for exploration in the country’s shallow offshore and swampy onshore regions.

The discovery was made at the Dolphin X-1 exploratory well, where PPL identified hydrocarbons in the Chiltan Formation of the Lower Indus Basin. The company described it as the first reported hydrocarbon discovery from the Jurassic-age Chiltan Formation in the basin.

PPL said the find could expand exploration opportunities in adjoining shallow offshore areas and strengthen the hydrocarbon potential of Pakistan’s low-depth marine zones. The region had remained largely unexplored for years because of its challenging geological and geographical conditions.

Drilling of Dolphin X-1 began on April 17, 2026, with the well reaching a measured depth of 3,850 metres to evaluate the hydrocarbon potential of the Chiltan Formation. Analysis of drilling results and wireline logs subsequently identified a hydrocarbon-bearing zone.

During testing, the well produced gas from the Chiltan Formation at a rate of 0.942 million standard cubic feet per day. The gas recorded a heating value of 1,000 British thermal units per standard cubic foot, with a wellhead flowing pressure of 211 pounds per square inch gauge through a 64/32-inch choke.

PPL holds a 75 per cent working interest in the Sarani Block and serves as its operator, while Government Holdings (Private) Limited owns the remaining 25 per cent stake.

The company said the well was drilled and tested using the expertise of its technical teams. The results have led to the identification of a new hydrocarbon play within the Chiltan Limestone, potentially providing a foundation for further exploration in the surrounding onshore and shallow offshore areas.