India to Launch Shale Gas Policy in CBM Areas
India's upstream regulator will formulate a new policy relating to exploration of shale gas in coalbed methane (CBM) blocks, national newspaper Times of India reported March 7.
The Directorate General for Hydrocarbons (DGH) will carry out a study on shale gas reserves soon, its deputy director-general Mahendra Pratap told the newspaper. This may have a significant impact on exploration in eastern India where most of the country's CBM blocks are located.
“There is wide variance in the estimation of shale gas. Like in the east, the estimate is between 6 trillion and 96 trillion m3. We have decided to carry out an estimate so that the operators can have an idea. The policy for shale gas exploration in CBM blocks will be finalised soon,” Pratap was quoted as saying.
Essar Oil and Gas Exploration and Production has already expressed its desire to explore for shale gas at its CBM block in the state of West Bengal. The company is likely to submit an exploration proposal to explore for shale gas from the Raniganj East block to a steering committee by end of this month, CEO Vilas Tawde said March 5. Other companies that own CBM blocks in India are GEECL, Reliance and ONGC.