Kerala-Konkan Basin Gets Green Light for Oil Exploration

Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi, has announced that three offshore blocks in the Kerala-Konkan (KK) basin have been approved for oil exploration.

A 3D seismic survey covering 1,028 sq km has been completed, identifying one location (Loc.OKKA) for exploratory drilling. Responding to a query from UDF MP Adoor Prakash in the Lok Sabha, the Minister confirmed that the approved blocks include:

KK-OSHP-2018/1, awarded to Oil India Limited (OIL)

KK-OSHP-2022/1 (shallow offshore), and

KK-DWHP-2022/1 (deepwater offshore), both awarded to ONGC under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP)

All three blocks are currently active. Drilling operations are scheduled at a site located 48 km offshore, targeting a depth of 6,000 meters below the seabed.

To facilitate the exploration activities, Cochin Port signed an MoU with OIL in June 2025 to provide critical logistical infrastructure. The shore base facility will include a warehouse, dry bulk handling plant, and an exclusive jetty, offering 24/7 support for offshore operations. Services will cover vessel berthing, refueling, bulk material transfer, potable water supply, and shore power.

The agreement is valid for 12 months and may be extended based on the progress of exploration activities.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.