Deep-Sea Hydrocarbon Exploration in the Gulf of Mannar

  • February 28, 2025
  • Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
  • Category: DPN Topics
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Deep-Sea Hydrocarbon Exploration in the Gulf of Mannar

Sub :Env

Sec :Protected Areas

Why in News

  • The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has included a 9,990.96 sq km deep-sea region in the Gulf of Mannar in its latest hydrocarbon exploration tender. This inclusion is part of the 10th round of the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), the largest such bid under the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP).

Key Points of Hydrocarbon Exploration Tender:

  • India launched its largest oil & gas bid round, covering 25 blocks spanning 1.91 lakh sq. km, primarily in offshore regions.
  • Identified reserves are located off the Tamil Nadu coast, particularly in the Ramanathapuram and Thoothukudi districts.
  • Geographical Distribution:
    • The 25 blocks are spread across 13 sedimentary basins.
    • 19 offshore&6 on-land blocks.
    • 75 lakh sq. km (91%) of total area is offshore.
    • ‘No-Go’ Area Inclusion: 16 blocks (97,919.6 sq. km, 51%) were previously restricted (‘No-Go’)
  • The Oilfields (Regulation & Development) Act (December 2024) was passed to streamline regulations& improve investment climate.

Environmental Concerns in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve:

  • Seismic Surveys: The high-intensity sound waves used for locating hydrocarbon reserves may disturb marine mammals and disrupt their communication.
  • Chemical Pollution: Oil and gas extraction may lead to chemical discharge, affecting fish populations and marine ecosystems.
  • Livelihood Threats: Fishing communities could face significant economic loss due to the decline in fish stocks and habitat destruction.

Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (GoMBR):

  • It is the first Marine Biosphere Reserve in South and South East Asia.
  • Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is a protected area located in the southeastern coast of India, in the state of Tamil Nadu. It was established in 1989.
  • The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve includes a marine national park, 21 islands, and the adjacent coral reefs.
  • The area is known for its high marine biodiversity and is home to many threatened species, including the sea cow (dugong) and various species of sea turtles.
  • Apart from the marine ecosystem, the reserve also includes several terrestrial ecosystems such as mangroves, forests, and grasslands. The reserve is home to many endemic plant species, including the mangrove palm and the sea hibiscus.
  • The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve has been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a Biosphere Reserve, a World Heritage Site, and a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.
Deep-Sea Hydrocarbon Exploration in the Gulf of Mannar Environment