KARACHI: Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) is preparing to launch a full-scale operation to extinguish a persistent underground fire that erupted last month during borehole drilling in Korangi Creek near an oil refinery. The move follows the release of a detailed chemical analysis, which revealed dangerously high concentrations of gases and minerals in the soil and groundwater.
According to Korangi Deputy Commissioner Masood Bhutto, the report confirmed the presence of hazardous gases such as benzene and toluene, as well as heavy metals including iron, arsenic, manganese, and lead—many exceeding permissible environmental limits.
“Initially, it was believed the fire was fueled by shallow gases that would eventually burn out. However, the flames have remained steady for over eight days,” Bhutto stated. “Now, PPL experts are preparing to initiate gas exploration across a five-kilometre radius to assess the extent of the underground gas reservoir.”
The fire is believed to have been triggered during drilling for a high-rise development project, which may have fractured underground shale layers, releasing trapped gases and igniting the blaze.
Rescue 1122 spokesperson Hassaan Khan confirmed that benzene, toluene, and tetrachloroethane were found in the groundwater at concentrations several times higher than permissible levels. Notably, benzene was measured at 19 micrograms per litre—nearly four times the limit.
A recent statement from TPL Properties, whose team first encountered the gas pocket during test drilling, indicated the source may be shallow biogenic methane, a naturally occurring gas from decomposing organic material. While not located in a known gas reservoir, experts suggest it could dissipate naturally if allowed to burn.
TPL emphasized that all its field studies—ranging from geotechnical assessments to environmental and social impact evaluations—were conducted with appropriate regulatory approvals and in collaboration with local and international consultancy firms.
With PPL now set to take the lead, the focus shifts to safely containing the blaze and determining the potential for controlled gas extraction in the area.
Story by Imtiaz Ali
