Oil India has confirmed the presence of natural gas in the Andaman basin. It marks a significant step in the country’s deepwater exploration goals. Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced the discovery on Friday, describing it as a major opportunity for energy.
The gas found in the Sri Vijayapuram-2 well, located about 17 km from the Andaman coastline at a water depth of 295 metres. The well was drilled to a target depth of 2,650 metres.
Gas samples by Oil India show high methane quantity
Gas samples show high methane amount. According to Puri, initial testing between depths of 2,212 to 2,250 metres confirmed the presence of natural gas with intermittent flaring. Samples sent to Kakinada for analysis showed an 87 % methane content, confirming the hydrocarbons’ quality.
Puri mentioned that the size of the gas pool and its commercial viability will be verified in the coming months. He emphasised that this discovery supports India’s belief that the Andaman basin rich in natural gas.
PM planning to expand oil and gas exploration in Andaman Sea Basin
The Oil India discovery follows PM Modi’s announcement of the National Deep Water Exploration Mission, called ‘Samudra Manthan,’ during his Independence Day address. The mission aims to expand oil and gas exploration in offshore basins and speed up India’s push for energy independence.
Puri noted that this discovery enhance India’s ability to collaborate with global deepwater exploration leaders. He said, “This occurrence of natural gas help us advance our exploration goals and a significant milestone in our journey through Amrit Kaal.”
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