OMV tests gas discovery in Pakistan

March 27, 2007
OMV AG has successfully tested a gas discovery on the Latif exploration block in Pakistan's northern Sindh province.

By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Mar. 27 -- OMV AG has successfully tested a gas discovery on the Latif exploration block in Pakistan's northern Sindh province.

The Latif-1 exploration well reached 3,520 m TD and encountered a total of 18.7 m net gas-condensate pay in three layers between 3,200 m and 3,450 m.

Two of the three intervals were successfully tested in February, confirming the potential of the reservoir. Preliminary results show that the well is capable of flowing at more than 1,700 boe/d from the tested zones.

Further 3D seismic surveys and appraisal drilling are planned, after which the actual flow potential and size of the field would be determined, OMV said.

Currently, the drilling rig has moved and preparations for further production testing and evaluations are under way.

The Sindh province is an area where the operator has had two major gas discoveries—Miano and Sawan—which were placed on stream in 2001 and 2003, respectively. Production from Sawan field recently has been increased to 400 MMscfd of gas from 340 MMscfd under a $350 million investment plan. Pakistan's Sui Northern Pipelines Ltd. and Sui Southern Gas Co. intend to take the additional gas (OGJ Online, Feb. 2, 2007).

The Latif exploration block is operated by OMV (Pakistan) Exploration GMBH, which holds a 33.4% interest. Pakistan Petroleum Ltd. and Eni AEP Ltd. each hold 33.3%.