Andaman Blocks in Focus: ONGC to Decide Well Locations by May

The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is in the final stages of determining the drilling locations for wells in the Andamans, with the decision expected by the close of May 2024. Having successfully completed the survey of the awarded blocks in the Andamans, ONGC is gearing up for exploration activities in the region.

Securing two blocks in the Andaman basins through the sixth open acreage licensing programme (OALP) round, ONGC anticipates significant natural gas reserves in these basins. The company is poised to initiate the drilling of three wells in the Andaman region, with operations slated to commence by the conclusion of 2024. Concurrently, ONGC is in the process of hiring floaters and rigs to support the exploration endeavors.

The government's decision to open up acreages in the Andamans, once considered inaccessible, is part of a strategic effort to boost domestic oil and gas production. Recognizing the potential of the Andaman basin, the Indian government is actively promoting and facilitating oil and gas exploration activities in the region.

News by Rahul Yelligetti