Pab Play in Sulaiman Fold and Thrust Belt, Pakistan

This study will demonstrate the gross depositional environment map of the Pab Formation, the basinal limit of its sandstone facies, and its reservoir characteristics, based on well data, outcrop data, and seismic reflection packages in the central part of the Sulaiman Fold and Thrust Belt (SFTB). There is good control on the distribution of Pab sandstone facies in the Eastern SFTB. This study prepares the gross depositional environment map and facies model of the Pab Formation for the central part of the SFTB. Recently acquired 2D seismic data, integrated with measured stratigraphic sections and wireline logs, identify stratal packages and their bounding surfaces. The stratal geometry in the seismic data helps interpret the possible shelf margin. Identified downlaps in the western side of the study area delineate the extent of basinal facies and the pinch-out line, marking the possible limits of the Pab reservoir play fairway. The seismic facies on the proximal side of the shelf margin or offlap break match the shallowing and thickening sequences observed in the outcrop sections and well correlations. Coastal onlaps identified in the seismic data indicate the onset of transgression and deposition of Dungan Limestone. A regional correlation along the depositional dip, based on seismic and well logs, demonstrates the major depositional units and their lateral association from deltaic facies to turbidites across the entire SFTB. Detailed sedimentological studies and petrographic analysis of rock samples, integrated into this study, further ascertain the facies variations across the area. Both sedimentological studies and seismic stratigraphy largely complement each other. Based on data integration and observations, a turbidite model is proposed for the Pab Formation in the central SFTB. A recent discovery confirmed the Pab play extension in this area, with the offlap break clearly interpreted in the seismic data. The gross depositional model for the Pab Formation was developed using seismic, well logs, and outcrops. The results of this study have significant implications for Pakistan's E&P industry, encouraging exploration of the Pab play in the central SFTB, previously considered a shale out.