The reduction of natural gas flows by 350 million cubic feet per day since mid-March has raised concerns among Pakistan’s exploration and production (E&P) companies. They fear that this reduction could lead to the sinking of oil and gas wells and depletion of gas reserves due to decreased pressure.
The Petroleum Division has instructed officials to meet with E&P companies and gas firms to address the issue. Sui Southern and Sui Northern, responsible for managing line pack pressure, have struggled to maintain it as per standard operating procedures (SOPs), jeopardizing operations in some oil and gas fields.
The reduction in gas flow from local fields has agitated E&P companies, especially since Pakistan has long-term LNG agreements with Qatar and ENI, which cannot be altered easily. To manage gas pressure, local gas flows have been reduced, posing a threat to oil and gas wells.
This situation has prompted authorities to convene a meeting with industry stakeholders to find a solution. Despite efforts to limit gas pressure to 4,500 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) as per SOPs, recent data shows line pack pressure exceeding 5,000 mmcfd.
Additionally, RLNG diversion to the domestic sector and reduced gas consumption in the power sector are being utilized to manage pressure. The current line pack pressure stands at 5,103 mmcfd, with RLNG consumption in the power sector at 535 mmcfd against a demand of 650 mmcfd for May. Gas consumption in the fertilizer and industrial sectors is also outlined.
More at: Massive cut in natural gas flows from local fields worries E&P firms (thenews.com.pk)
