In a promising development for Pakistan’s energy sector, Mari Energies gas discovery in Pakistan has announced a significant gas discovery at the Tibri-1 exploratory well in Balochistan. The find, made in the Kalchas South Block in Dera Bugti District, marks an important step forward in boosting indigenous natural gas resources and strengthening the country’s energy security amid rising demand.
Where the Discovery Was Made
The gas discovery was reported at the Tibri-1 well, the first exploratory well drilled in the Kalchas South Block. The block is operated by a consortium led by United Energy Pakistan Limited (UEPL) with a 46% working interest, while Mari Energies holds a 44% stake and Dewan Petroleum Pvt. Limited (DPL) holds the remaining 10%.
Drilling operations at Tibri-1 began on November 11, 2025, and reached a total depth of 7,170 feet. Initial testing of the Dunghan/Sui Main Limestone (SML) formation has already shown encouraging results in terms of gas flow rates.
Results of the Tibri-1 Well Test
Early tests indicate that the Tibri-1 well has produced notable gas flow under controlled conditions:
- 11 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD) at a 64/64″ choke with a wellhead flowing pressure of 561 psig
- 6.5 MMSCFD at 32/64″ choke with a wellhead pressure of 1,161 psig
These results suggest the presence of commercially viable gas reserves, though further testing is underway to fully assess the well’s production potential.
Why This Discovery Matters
1. Strengthening Domestic Energy Supply
Pakistan’s reliance on imported fuel and liquefied natural gas (LNG) has long been a source of economic strain. Discoveries like Tibri-1 — along with others in Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — help increase domestic gas production, reduce dependency on imports, and improve energy security.
2. Reviving Exploration in Balochistan
The Kalchas South Block had seen limited activity in recent years due to security and logistical challenges. The success at Tibri-1 reflects renewed investment and operational confidence by companies like Mari Energies and its partners.
3. Positive Sign for Future Exploration
This discovery may encourage additional drilling and exploration in adjacent parts of the block and across similar geological formations in Balochistan. Pakistan has seen multiple finds over recent years, including oil and gas at other wells such as Mari Ghazij CF-B1 in Sindh and hydrocarbon discoveries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Mari Energies: A Key Player in Pakistan’s Energy Sector
Mari Energies Limited, formerly Mari Petroleum Company Limited, is one of Pakistan’s leading integrated exploration and production (E&P) companies. The firm operates across multiple provinces and holds a significant portion of Pakistan’s hydrocarbon concessions, contributing a large share of domestic natural gas and oil production.
The company has a long history of exploration in the country, including major discoveries such as:
- Gas at Soho-1 and Mari Ghazij-1 wells in Sindh
- Oil and gas at the Mari Ghazij CF-B1 well
- Hydrocarbons at the Spinwam-1 and Shewa fields in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
These achievements underscore Mari Energies’ crucial role in expanding Pakistan’s energy base.
What Comes Next
While initial test results are encouraging, further extended well testing and reservoir evaluation will determine the well’s long-term commercial viability and output potential. If sustained production levels are achieved, the discovery could contribute meaningfully to regional supply and support local industrial and domestic demand.
Analysts will also closely watch ongoing exploration in the broader Kalchas South Block and how this find influences future investments in Pakistan’s upstream sector.
Conclusion
The Mari Energies gas discovery in Pakistan at the Tibri-1 well represents a hopeful development for the nation’s energy outlook. In an environment marked by rising demand and import pressures, increases in domestic gas resources can provide economic relief, support industrial growth, and enhance energy self-sufficiency. Continued exploration and development in partnership with both local and international firms will be key to fully unlocking Pakistan’s hydrocarbon potential.
