KazMunayGas begins drilling deep exploration well at Turgai-Paleozoic site in southwest Kazakhstan

ALMATY. May 30 (Interfax) - KazMunayGas (KMG) has begun drilling the PZ-1 exploration well at the Turgai-Paleozoic site in the Kyzylorda Region in southwest Kazakhstan, targeting a depth of 5,500 meters, KMG's press service said.

"Drilling wells at a similar depth has not been carried out in this region previously. Complications from implementing a project to study deep-lying sediments involve an unknown geological section, potentially high pressures and temperatures, the presence of hydrogen sulfide, and other matters," the press service said.

KMG said that a professional team of 30 specialists has formed to implement the project, and 40 specialists from service companies and 70 drillers are also involved in the project.

KMG is the 100% subsoil user in the project.

KMG announced plans to drill three exploration wells at the Abay block in 2024, as well as at the Karaton-subsalt and Turgai-Paleozoic projects.

KMG had previously considered potential collaboration with China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) in geological exploration at the Turgai-Paleozoic site.

KazMunayGas is Kazakhstan's national operator for the exploration, production, processing, and transportation of hydrocarbons, representing the government's interests in the oil and gas industry.