The State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) has granted environmental clearance to the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) for drilling twenty onshore exploratory wells in Tamil Nadu’s Ramanathapuram district.
Exploration to Cover 1,403 sq. km Block
The clearance permits ONGC to conduct exploration across a 1,403 sq. km block in the Ramnad sub-basin. Each well will be drilled to depths ranging between 2,000 and 3,000 meters, with an estimated drilling duration of four months per well. However, before starting operations, ONGC must secure a Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) from the state industries department.
Proximity to Ecologically Sensitive Zones Raises Concerns
Several of the proposed well locations are near ecologically sensitive areas, including the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park and bird sanctuaries. This proximity has triggered concerns among environmental groups and local communities about potential ecological risks.
Farmers Demand Stronger Protection Laws
Projectstoday.com reports that local farmers urge the government to amend the Cauvery Delta Protection Act and extend its safeguards to Ramanathapuram and Sivagangai districts. They argue these measures are essential to protect agricultural lands and fragile ecosystems from industrial activity.
