PRELIMS BITS
Key Issue:
The debate has intensified over Oil India Limited’s (OIL) proposal for oil exploration using Extended Reach Drilling (ERD) technology in Assam’s Dibru Saikhowa National Park. Despite environmental concerns, the Environment Ministry’s Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) recommended the R&D proposal with strict conditions.
ERD Technology Overview:
- Enables horizontal underground drilling to depths of 3,500-4,000 metres.
- Minimizes surface disruption compared to conventional methods.
Background:
- FAC had previously rejected drilling inside the park due to ecological risks and incidents like the 2020 Baghjan oil field blowout.
- The Supreme Court’s guidelines prohibit mining in national parks and sensitive areas.
Wildlife Institute of India (WII) Role:
- WII supports ERD-based studies to evaluate biodiversity impacts.
- It will conduct research across biogeographic zones for five years to develop mitigation strategies.
Environmental Concerns:
- Risks include potential oil spills and threats to nearby ecosystems, including the Brahmaputra River.
- Legal and regulatory frameworks emphasize minimizing harm in protected areas.