By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
State-Owned Energy Company Launches Innovative Drilling Project
Pakistan Petroleum Ltd. (PPL) is building an artificial island off the coast of Sindh to facilitate offshore oil and gas exploration, according to a senior company official. The six-foot-high platform, located approximately 30 kilometers from Sujawal, will serve as a base for drilling operations. Arshad Palekar, PPL’s General Manager for Exploration and Core Business Development, revealed details of the project at an oil and gas conference in Islamabad, emphasizing its potential to streamline exploration efforts.
Island Designed for Stability and Continuous Operations
The artificial island is engineered to endure high tides, ensuring uninterrupted drilling operations around the clock. Drawing inspiration from Abu Dhabi’s successful use of similar structures, Pakistan’s initiative represents a first for the country’s energy sector. Palekar confirmed that construction is on track for completion by February, with drilling set to commence immediately afterward. PPL plans to drill approximately 25 wells from the new platform, significantly boosting offshore exploration capabilities.
Offshore Exploration Gains Momentum After International Attention
Pakistan’s push for offshore drilling has intensified following U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks in July highlighting the nation’s “massive oil reserves.” Since then, the government has issued new offshore exploration licenses to PPL, Mari Energies Ltd., and Prime International Oil and Gas Co. The artificial island project underscores Pakistan’s commitment to expanding its energy resources, leveraging strategic infrastructure to tap into untapped reserves.