Andaman Shallow Offshore: India’s Gas Potential Unlocked
Context
Oil India Ltd (OIL) has recently announced the discovery of natural gas in the Andaman Shallow Offshore Block. This marks the first-ever hydrocarbon discovery in the region. The breakthrough is significant as it can potentially reduce India’s high dependence on oil and gas imports, enhance energy security, and strengthen India’s push towards self-reliance in hydrocarbons.
About the Discovery
- Identified in Vijayapuram-2 exploratory well under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP).
- Gas samples revealed 87% methane content, showing strong commercial viability after further testing.
- Location:
- 9.20 nautical miles (17 km) off the Andaman east coast.
- Water depth: 295 metres.
- Drilling depth: 2,650 metres.
- Intermittent flaring observed between 2,212–2,250 metres, confirming hydrocarbon presence.
Significance of the Andaman Basin Discovery
- First hydrocarbon occurrence in the Andaman Basin.
- Expands India’s exploration map beyond traditional oil and gas regions.
- Strengthens the strategic role of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as an energy and maritime hub.
- Potential to diversify energy resources, reducing vulnerability to global supply shocks.
Key Features of the Andaman Islands
- Geography: Archipelago of 300+ islands, part of the Andaman & Nicobar Union Territory, about 1,370 km east of mainland India.
- Major Islands: North, Middle, and South Andaman (Great Andaman) + Little Andaman; Nicobars lie further south.
- Topography: Consists of dome-shaped hill ranges, dissected terrain; Saddle Peak (737 m) is the highest point.
- Ecology: Rich in tropical rainforests, mangroves, coral reefs, and biodiversity hotspots. Home to indigenous tribes like the Sentinelese, Jarawa, Onge, and Great Andamanese.
- Strategic Location: Controls sea lanes of communication (SLOCs) in the Bay of Bengal; located at the junction of the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea.
- Geological Setting: Formed of sandstone, limestone, and shale (Paleogene–Neogene age).
- Disaster Prone: Lies in a seismically active zone; heavily impacted during the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.
Conclusion
The discovery of natural gas in the Andaman Basin is a historic milestone for India’s energy sector. It not only promises to reduce import dependence but also reinforces the strategic and economic importance of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. If developed further, this basin could emerge as a new frontier of energy security, supporting India’s long-term vision of self-reliance and sustainable growth.
Source : The Hindu
