ONGC Plans to Boost Gas Output in Tripura: Official
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Synopsis
Agartala, Feb 7 (NationPress) The state-owned ONGC aims to reach a gas production target of four MMSCMD in Tripura. Currently producing 3.5 MMSCMD, ONGC is focused on connecting high-potential wells despite challenges.
Key Takeaways
- ONGC targets 4 MMSCMD gas production
- Current production stands at 3.5 MMSCMD
- Challenges with pipeline in defense area
- Training program for 300 local youths
- Gas supply to Palatana power plant enhanced
Agartala, Feb 7 (NationPress) The state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is set to reach a goal of four Million Metric Standard Cubic Meters Per Day (MMSCMD) in gas production within Tripura. Roopesh Kumar Sharan, Chief General Manager (CGM) of ONGC, stated that the company currently produces 3.5 MMSCMD in the region, which is known for its vast natural gas reserves located throughout the state.
In a media briefing, he mentioned that ONGC has several high-potential wells but is encountering challenges in connecting them to gas collection stations to boost production.
He added that although a pipeline has been constructed, a small segment runs through a defense area in Kunjaban, West Tripura, requiring authorization from the Ministry of Defence for its installation.
“We have sought the necessary permissions through the state government,” Sharan noted.
Recently, approval was granted by the Ministry of Defence, and the pipeline will be laid as soon as possible, he confirmed.
According to the official, if all goes as planned, the 4 MMSCMD production target could be met within a month. However, given the dense population in Kunjaban and potential other obstacles, the completion of the pipeline work might extend to six months.
The CGM also highlighted that ONGC is providing training for local youths through the PM Internship Scheme, aiming to train 300 individuals with theoretical knowledge and practical orientation in Tripura.
Furthermore, gas supply to the 726 MW capacity OTPC-run Palatana gas-based power plant in southern Tripura has recently seen an increase.
Since March 2016, Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) has been delivering 70 to 80 MW of electricity daily to neighboring Bangladesh from the Palatana facility operated by ONGC Tripura Power Company (OTPC).
Two separate units of OTPC, each with a capacity of 363.3 MW, were inaugurated by former President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2013 and 2014 respectively. ONGC has a substantial amount of natural gas reserves in Tripura, having drilled over 200 wells since 1972, with many of them actively yielding gas.
