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.