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OGDC sets sails for offshore expansion to unlock coastal energy potentialBreaking

April 16, 2025

Shams ul Nisa

The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDC) is making a major push into offshore exploration, aiming to tap into the country’s vast untapped coastal reserves, reports WealthPK. This ambitious initiative is set to enhance energy security, cut down reliance on imports, and boost economic growth through cutting-edge exploration technologies.

As a result of depleting onshore reserves in the country, OGDC is intensifying its focus on Pakistan’s vast, underexplored offshore regions, which hold immense potential for major oil and gas discoveries. Therefore, the company is spearheading multiple projects in the Makran and Indus basins, deploying advanced seismic surveys and cutting-edge drilling technologies to uncover new hydrocarbon reserves.

Thus, the company aims to unlock vital reserves that will not only secure domestic energy supplies but also drive economic growth and job creation. Furthermore, acknowledging the technical challenges and high costs of offshore exploration, the company is forging strategic alliances with international oil and gas firms. These collaborations provide advanced expertise, cutting-edge technology, and crucial investment, increasing the likelihood of successful discoveries.

Moreover, the company is actively coordinating with government authorities to simplify regulatory procedures and create a favourable environment for offshore investments. Furthermore, OGDC is leading the way in the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to boost its exploration and production capabilities. Key innovations include 3D seismic imaging, which delivers detailed subsurface maps for identifying potential hydrocarbon reserves, and deepwater drilling, which enables access to reserves in challenging offshore environments.

Additionally, the company is also utilising enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques to maximise production from mature fields. Through the integration of these advanced technologies, OGDC is significantly enhancing the efficiency and success rate of its exploration efforts, both onshore and offshore.

OGDC strongly advocates for policy reforms aimed at attracting more investment into Pakistan's energy sector. These reforms focus on simplifying regulatory processes, offering fiscal incentives for exploration, and fostering a transparent, competitive bidding environment. The company seeks to establish a favourable climate for sustainable growth within the energy sector by collaborating closely with government agencies and industry stakeholders.

Thus, OGDC’s strategic decision to expand offshore exploration underscores its commitment to reshaping Pakistan’s energy landscape. The company is poised to drive economic growth, reduce reliance on imports, and ensure a sustainable energy future by harnessing the untapped potential of the country’s coastal regions. The firm is solidifying its position as a pivotal player in Pakistan’s pursuit of energy independence through continued innovation and collaboration.

Credit: INP-WealthPk