Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) (PSX: PPL) has announced the successful execution of a water shut-off operation at the Shahdad X-1 well in the Gambat South Block, located in District Sanghar, Sindh. The intervention has significantly enhanced gas production and reduced water output, marking a major milestone in optimizing the well’s performance.

In a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), PPL revealed that the operation increased the gas flow rate from 2.2 MMscfd to 8.4 MMscfd, while water production was drastically reduced from 3,000 barrels per day (BPD) to just 26 BPD. This achievement underscores the company’s technical expertise and operational excellence in managing mature fields.

Shahdad X-1, a sweet gas well drilled in 2012 and operational since 2015, initially produced 26 MMscfd of gas. However, by 2024, production had declined significantly due to severe water production. A Production Logging Tool (PLT) survey conducted in August 2024 identified inter-layer crossflow as the primary issue, necessitating an effective remediation strategy.

To address the problem, PPL collaborated with a coiled tubing service provider to develop a targeted solution. After evaluating cost, risk, and operational feasibility, the team selected acid-soluble cement to isolate the water-producing zones. The operation involved overcoming fluid losses during well-kill operations using Loss Circulation Material (LCM) and brine for stabilization. Cement placement was executed with precision, followed by a 32-hour curing period, and validated through slickline confirmation.

This marks the first water shut-off operation in the Gambat South Block and the first use of acid-soluble cement technology in PPL’s portfolio. The company highlighted the success as a testament to its commitment to enhancing production from mature fields and its ability to implement innovative solutions.