ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is rapidly running out of its discovered oil reserves, with officials warning that fresh exploration has now become critical for ensuring the country’s long-term energy security
Figures released by the Auditor General of Pakistan reveal that of the 1,234 million barrels of oil discovered so far, nearly 80 percent has already been consumed. The remaining reserves are spread across the provinces: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa holds the largest share at 94.24 million barrels, Sindh has 78.98 million barrels, Punjab 74.23 million barrels, while Balochistan’s reserves stand at just 1.6 million barrels.
At present, the country produces around 60,000 barrels per day — a figure energy experts believe could be increased substantially if new reserves are tapped. The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has already begun reaching out to global exploration companies in a bid to accelerate discoveries and attract foreign investment.
Despite the decline, hope remains. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates Pakistan still holds around 9.1 billion barrels of untapped oil resources. However, with national demand projected to climb from 2.23 billion barrels in 2030 to 3.35 billion barrels, the urgency for new exploration cannot be overstated.
Officials argue that unlocking new reserves with the help of international partners could prove to be an economic game-changer reducing costly imports, stabilizing energy supplies, and boosting national revenue.
In a positive development, the Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) recently announced a fresh discovery at the Chakrun-1 exploratory well in Tando Allah Yar, Sindh. Drilling began on June 2, 2025, reaching a depth of 1,926 meters in the Lower Goru Formation. According to OGDCL, testing confirmed a flow rate of 275 barrels of oil per day through a 32/64-inch choke, with a wellhead flowing pressure of 400 psi.
The company, which holds a 95 percent operating interest in the license, described the find as a promising step towards enhancing Pakistan’s domestic oil output. Energy experts believe such discoveries, if pursued aggressively, could help offset the looming shortfall and reduce the country’s reliance on imported fuel.
