Pakistan's gas depletes

Pakistan's gas depletes

QUETTA, Pakistan (Reuter): Pakistan is seriously concerned
about its fast-depleting natural gas reserves, which experts say
could run out in 18 years' time.

"Based on the 1992/93 gas production rate of about 1,600
million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD) and an annual
production growth rate of 6.1 percent, Pakistan's gas reserves
will last another 18 years," Ashfaq Safi Munshey of the state-run
Sui Southern Gas Co Ltd told Reuters.

Gas was first discovered in the western province of
Balochistan in 1952. Some 36 fields have been found since then.

Pakistan also produces about 60,000 barrels per day of oil,
about 22 percent of its total oil requirement.

Natural gas provides 38 percent of Pakistan's primary energy
needs, of which 40 percent is used to generate power, 20 percent
to make fertilizer, 23 percent to run industries and 17 percent
to supply domestic and commercial consumers.