Government awards 13 new blocks for exploration in Sindh and Balochistan
ISLAMABAD — In a significant boost to foreign investment in Pakistan’s energy sector, the government has awarded oil and gas exploration rights to Turkish Petroleum Overseas Company (TPOC) in Sindh and Balochistan, official sources confirmed on Friday.
TPOC, a state-owned Turkish energy firm, will operate as a joint venture partner in the Ziarat North block, where it will explore oil and gas reserves. The company has been formally granted permission to begin exploration activities, marking its first operational entry into Pakistan’s upstream sector.
This development is part of a broader government initiative that awarded 13 new blocks to both local and international companies to ramp up domestic hydrocarbon production and attract foreign direct investment (FDI).
Blocks awarded include Qalat South, Ziarat North, Nowing Sharif Khew, Ahmadwal, Sukhpur, Pading, Chaghi, Dalbandin Miroi, and Miroi West. These areas are considered geologically promising and largely unexplored.
In addition to TPOC, the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Mari Petroleum, Government Holdings Private Limited (GHPL), Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Pakistan Oilfields Limited (POL), and Prime Global Energies have secured rights to various blocks.
Officials say the move will help reduce reliance on costly energy imports, generate employment in remote areas, and enhance energy security. “These awards reflect our strategy to open the sector for competitive investment and modern exploration,” a senior Petroleum Division official said.
TPOC’s entry is expected to not only strengthen Pakistan-Turkey economic ties but also bring advanced technology and expertise to the country’s energy exploration efforts.
Analysts believe the new exploration awards signal renewed momentum in Pakistan’s drive to unlock its domestic energy potential.
