A Fourth Successful Discovery in Spinwam-1 Exploratory Well
Islamabad, April 2025 – In a major breakthrough for Pakistan’s energy sector, Mari Energies Limited has announced its fourth hydrocarbon discovery from the Spinwam-1 exploratory well, located in the Lockhart Formation of the Waziristan Block in North Waziristan District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province.
This latest discovery builds on a series of successful finds at the same well. Earlier, Mari Energies had reported significant hydrocarbon yields from the Samanasuk, Kawagarh, and Hangu formations on February 25, March 17, and April 3, 2025, respectively. The Lockhart Formation discovery marks another critical milestone in Pakistan’s quest for energy security and reducing reliance on imported fuels.
Key Test Results and Technical Details
The flow testing of the Lockhart Formation has yielded highly promising results:
- Gas Flow Rate: 70.3 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD)
- Condensate Production: Approximately 310 barrels per day (bbl/day)
- Choke Size: 64/64”
- Well Head Flowing Pressure (WHFP): 3,264 pounds per square inch gauge (psig)
These results not only demonstrate the commercial viability of the Lockhart Formation but also reinforce the geological richness of the Waziristan Block.
Joint Venture and Stakeholder Collaboration
Mari Energies Limited operates the Waziristan Block with a 55% working interest, while its joint venture partners include:
- Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL): 35% working interest
- Orient Petroleum Inc.: 10% working interest
The success of the exploration and testing activities is a result of collaborative efforts between all three partners, working seamlessly to tap into the region’s vast untapped potential.
Leadership Insights and Strategic Vision
Mr. Faheem Haider, Managing Director and CEO of Mari Energies Limited, emphasized the company’s steadfast commitment to enhancing Pakistan’s domestic energy portfolio through aggressive exploration and development.
“This discovery further strengthens our belief in the enormous hydrocarbon potential that still lies untapped within Pakistan. We are proud that our strategy is delivering tangible results that contribute to the country’s growing energy needs. This milestone has only been possible due to the unrelenting efforts of our teams, and the support from our stakeholders,” he said.
Mr. Haider also extended his gratitude to the Ministry of Petroleum, Directorate General of Petroleum Concessions (DGPC), provincial and federal governments, law enforcement agencies, local communities, and joint venture partners for their unwavering cooperation and support throughout the project.
Lt. Gen. Anwar Ali Hyder (Retd), Chairman of the Board of Directors at Mari Energies, praised the company’s operational and technical teams for their dedication:
“The success at Spinwam-1 is a testament to the technical capabilities, strategic planning, and operational excellence of Mari Energies. I especially thank our law enforcement and government institutions whose support was vital in ensuring safe and efficient operations in a challenging region.”
Geopolitical Significance and Regional Context
The discovery in North Waziristan, a region previously marked by security challenges, is especially significant. The development of natural resources in these underexplored and geopolitically sensitive areas can open new doors for economic upliftment, infrastructure development, and employment opportunities for local populations.
Furthermore, successful exploration activities in Waziristan can enhance investor confidence, both domestically and internationally, potentially leading to more foreign direct investment (FDI) in Pakistan’s upstream oil and gas sector.
Economic and Strategic Impact on Pakistan’s Energy Sector
Pakistan faces a chronic energy crisis, heavily reliant on imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG), crude oil, and refined petroleum products to meet domestic demand. As of 2024, Pakistan’s energy import bill accounted for a significant portion of its current account deficit, exerting pressure on the foreign exchange reserves.
The recent discovery at the Spinwam-1 well provides a glimmer of hope:
- Reduces import dependency: By tapping into local reserves, Pakistan can cut down on costly energy imports.
- Enhances energy security: Boosts the domestic production of natural gas and condensate, essential for power generation, industry, and transport.
- Supports economic recovery: Lower energy costs can revive industrial output and control inflation.
- Job creation: Exploration and development activities generate employment and economic activity in surrounding regions.
Geological Potential of the Waziristan Block
The Waziristan Block has long been considered a high-potential zone due to its geological alignment with other productive basins in the region. The successful results from multiple formations—Samanasuk, Kawagarh, Hangu, and now Lockhart—highlight the multi-reservoir structure of the region, making it an attractive exploration target for future drilling campaigns.
The Lockhart Formation itself is part of the Indus Basin, one of the most prolific hydrocarbon-bearing basins in South Asia. The high pressure and flow rates observed in testing suggest the presence of a robust and potentially expansive reservoir.
The Road Ahead for Mari Energies
With four significant discoveries from a single exploratory well, Mari Energies has established a strong technical and operational foundation in the Waziristan Block. The next steps will likely include:
- Reservoir appraisal and delineation studies
- Development planning and infrastructure build-out
- Drilling of appraisal and development wells
- Pipeline and production facility development for commercial extraction
The company is also expected to conduct further 3D seismic surveys and apply advanced subsurface imaging technologies to expand its understanding of the Waziristan Block and surrounding areas.
Conclusion: A Milestone Moment in Pakistan’s Energy Future
The successful hydrocarbon discovery in the Lockhart Formation by Mari Energies Limited marks a historic achievement not just for the company but for the entire nation. It underscores the untapped potential of Pakistan’s geological resources and reaffirms the importance of strategic exploration, stakeholder collaboration, and government support in advancing energy security.
As Pakistan continues to navigate economic challenges and energy shortages, such discoveries offer a sustainable and indigenous path toward self-reliance, economic revival, and regional development.
With continued exploration efforts, innovation in drilling and extraction technologies, and consistent support from government institutions, Pakistan has the opportunity to transform its natural resource wealth into long-term national prosperity.
Allah be praised.
