ISLAMABAD, Jul 24 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi in a strategic meeting held with Ahmed Hayat Lak, Managing Director of the Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), on Wednesday emphasized the critical need for enhancing community welfare and sustainable development in regions impacted by oil and gas exploration activities.
The discussions focused on three key initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents in these areas. Member Provincial Assembly Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ahmed Kundi was also present in the meeting.
Governor Faisal Kundi underscored the importance of facilitating health and education services in areas where OGDCL has successfully explored oil. Recognizing the significant contributions of these regions to the province’s and the country’s energy resources, he advocated for investments that will ensure residents benefit directly from these natural resource discoveries.
This initiative aims to bridge the gap in healthcare and educational infrastructure, providing long-term benefits to the local population.
Addressing the energy needs of less privileged communities living around the oil and gas exploration sites, the Governor called for the deployment of solar energy systems funded by OGDCL. Many of these communities struggle with the high cost of electricity bills, making it difficult for them to afford consistent power supply.
He said by utilizing OGDCL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to provide solar systems, these communities can gain access to sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.
This move is expected to promote sustainable energy practices, reduce dependency on conventional power sources, and alleviate financial burdens on underprivileged families, while also supporting environmental conservation efforts in the region, he added.
Special attention was directed towards the communities in Karak, a district noted for its significant natural gas extraction activities.
The Governor emphasized that Karak, being a major contributor to the province’s natural gas output, should see targeted development initiatives.
He said these initiatives will include infrastructure development, community health programs, and educational projects aimed at uplifting the socio-economic status of the local residents.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has emerged as a pivotal region for Pakistan’s oil and gas sector, producing over 50 percent of the country’s national crude oil and substantial quantities of natural gas and LPG, he added.
The Governor said the province’s strategic focus on harnessing its energy resources has attracted significant national and international investments, fostering economic growth and job creation.
He said the KP Oil and Gas Company Limited (KPOGCL) plays a crucial role in driving exploration and production activities, ensuring the province capitalizes on its rich energy reserves.
Recent discoveries in districts like Kohat and Karak have further solidified KP’s status as a leading oil and gas hub. These discoveries are pivotal in reducing Pakistan’s dependency on imported fuels, thereby bolstering the national economy.
The Governor’s initiatives reflect a broader vision of integrating community welfare with economic development, ensuring that the benefits of natural resource extraction extend beyond financial gains to tangible improvements in the lives of local populations.