A critical drilling phase at the Balal gas field has been completed ahead of schedule, with the early completion of 32-inch hole drilling and the installation of 26-inch conductors—six days earlier than planned.
According to the Public Relations and International Affairs Department of Petropars Group, this phase of operations included drilling and installing 26-inch conductors for eight wells, as well as the tie-back of 18⅝-inch casing strings for the appraisal–exploration well. As one of the key stages of the Balal Gas Field Development Project, the successful completion of this phase has provided the essential infrastructure required for subsequent drilling activities.
Dr. Hamidreza Saghafi, CEO of Petropars Group, announced that the operation was carried out in full compliance with technical, safety, and HSE standards and was completed within 14 days, despite an initial schedule of 20 days.
Emphasizing the importance of this achievement, he stated that the successful completion of this phase represents a decisive step in advancing the Balal development project and paves the way for entering the next stage—namely, drilling the appraisal well. Drilling operations are expected to continue in line with the approved schedule.
Dr. Saghafi expressed his appreciation for the project workforce, noting that the commitment, expertise, and round-the-clock efforts of Petropars personnel were the main drivers behind this progress and a testament to effective teamwork across the organization.
He also acknowledged the support of the employer, Pars Oil and Gas Company, highlighting its constructive role in accelerating project execution.
In this regard, Mr, Shahriari, Balal Project Manager at Petropars, stated that completing this operation within 14 days was the result of close coordination between execution and support teams and demonstrated Petropars’ capability in delivering complex projects.
With the continuation of the current momentum and integrated operational management, the Balal Gas Field Development Project is progressing steadily toward achieving acceptable advancement and preparing for the start of natural gas production—reflecting the strength of domestic engineering capabilities in executing strategic oil and gas projects.