Deep-Sea Strike: Oil India Unlocks Natural Gas in the Andamans

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has announced a natural gas discovery by Oil India Ltd at an exploratory offshore well near the Andaman Islands, marking a significant development in India’s offshore hydrocarbon exploration efforts.

The discovery was made at the Sri Vijayapuram-3 well, situated approximately 15 km off the eastern coast of the Andaman Islands in waters with a depth of about 355 metres.

According to the minister, initial production testing conducted at a depth exceeding 1,900 metres within the Eocene geological formation confirmed the presence of natural gas, evidenced by continuous gas flaring during testing operations. Oil India is currently undertaking detailed gas sampling and analysis to determine the composition, calorific value, and commercial potential of the discovery. Isotope studies are also being carried out to better understand the origin and characteristics of the gas.

The discovery forms part of India’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic energy security through increased offshore exploration. It aligns with the objectives of the Samudra Manthan Mission (National Deep Water Exploration Mission), launched to accelerate exploration and development activities in the country’s deepwater and ultra-deepwater offshore basins.

Industry observers view the find as a positive step toward unlocking the hydrocarbon potential of the Andaman offshore region and supporting India’s efforts to enhance indigenous oil and gas production while reducing dependence on energy imports.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.