Pakistan Petroleum to engage global experts in Korangi fire investigation

Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) will engage international experts to investigate the cause of a persistent fire in Korangi, recommending containment measures and potential intervention strategies, the company announced.

Following directives from the Ministry of Energy, PPL has been assigned to lead the response, with a high-level oversight committee headed by Chief Operating Officer Sikandar Ali Memon monitoring developments.

Managing Director Imran Abbasy visited the site, where a fire—triggered by a 1,200-foot-deep borehole drilling on March 29—has raised concerns over underground gas emissions. Though the flames have subsided, gases continue to escape, causing water used in firefighting efforts to erupt from the pit.

Experts will assess the feasibility of surface well control measures, including pumping operations, to contain the situation. If recommended, specialized service providers may be mobilized to drill a relief well to isolate and shut off the gas flow at the downhole level.

Reports indicate that sand displacement and overflowing water have widened the crater. Preliminary tests of site water samples have detected hazardous chemicals, including benzene, toluene, tetrachloroethylene, and o-xylene, raising additional environmental concerns.