Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) is taking a major step toward advancing the country’s offshore energy ambitions by constructing an artificial island nearly 300 kilometers off the Sindh coast. According to Bloomberg, the reclaimed structure, built six feet above sea level, has been designed to withstand high tides and support uninterrupted drilling operations in deep waters.
Arshad Palekar, PPL’s General Manager for Exploration and Core Business Development, explained that the artificial island model is inspired by successful offshore drilling projects in Abu Dhabi. By creating a stable, elevated platform, PPL aims to overcome the challenges posed by rough sea conditions, allowing engineers and equipment to operate safely and efficiently throughout the year.
The island is expected to be completed by February, after which drilling activities will begin. This marks one of Pakistan’s most ambitious offshore exploration initiatives in recent years, signaling renewed efforts to tap into potential deep-sea hydrocarbon reserves that could significantly strengthen the country’s energy security.
The project also aligns with PPL’s recent collaboration with Turkish Petroleum Overseas Company (TPOC), which entered into an agreement to jointly explore resources in the Eastern Offshore Indus C Block. The partnership aims to combine technical expertise, modern technology, and financial resources to accelerate progress in Pakistan’s offshore sector.
If successful, the artificial island could pave the way for similar projects in the future, reducing reliance on expensive energy imports and positioning Pakistan as an active player in regional offshore exploration. The initiative reflects a broader strategic shift toward long-term, sustainable solutions for the country’s growing energy needs.
