Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC), India’s leading oil and gas producer, is poised to embark on an ambitious exploration venture in Bihar with plans to drill a well this year, marking a significant milestone in the state’s journey towards energy self-sufficiency.
The proposed drilling initiative holds the potential to not only position Bihar prominently on India’s oil map but also catalyse exploration efforts across the vast expanse of the Ganga basin, stretching from Bihar to Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. A senior official from ONGC’s exploration division revealed that the company has recently acquired 3D seismic data covering an extensive area of 300 sq km within its block in Samastipur, Bihar. With preparations underway, ONGC aims to commence drilling operations for two exploratory wells, with the first well slated for drilling later this year, estimated to incur a cost of approximately ₹30-35 crore. The data gleaned from the initial well drilling will play a pivotal role in shaping ONGC’s strategy for further exploration within the designated block, informing decisions surrounding the planned drilling of the second well. Notably, exploratory drilling activities in Bihar have remained dormant for nearly half a century, underscoring the significance of ONGC’s forthcoming endeavour in recalibrating existing seismic data and unlocking the untapped potential of the region.
“This pivotal drilling initiative holds the promise of unlocking the entire basin for future exploration endeavours,” affirmed the official, highlighting the transformative impact that a potential commercial discovery could have on the region’s energy landscape and indigenous industrial development. In addition to Bihar, ONGC has set its sights on drilling an exploratory well in the Ganga basin’s Ballia block in Uttar Pradesh. However, land acquisition challenges have posed obstacles to the execution of this plan, with fragmented land ownership patterns complicating the process of securing requisite parcels for drilling operations. Despite the intricacies involved in land acquisition, ONGC remains committed to its mission of expanding exploration activities and harnessing India’s indigenous energy resources to meet the nation’s growing energy demands. As the company navigates regulatory clearances and operational challenges, its endeavour exemplifies the perseverance and innovation essential for driving India’s energy transition towards sustainability and self-reliance.
