The state cabinet has approved ONGC's oil drilling operations in Ashoknagar, North 24 Parganas, marking a significant step in West Bengal's energy sector.
This decision follows the earlier discovery of mineral oil in the region.
Additionally, the state government has allocated two acres of land in Nagarakata, Jalpaiguri, in north Bengal for the paramilitary force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), reinforcing security infrastructure in the area. These key decisions were finalised during a cabinet meeting on Thursday.
Previously, oil reserves were identified in multiple locations, particularly around Baigachi in North 24 Parganas. In December 2020, Union petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan initiated commercial oil and gas extraction in the region, paving the way for further exploration.
Now, ONGC is set to expand its operations across Bengal, with land leasing and drilling preparations nearing completion at four sites in North 24 Parganas. Additionally, the process of acquiring land has begun in two locations—Chapatla Gram Panchayat in Deganga in North 24 Parganas and Bhagwanpur II block in East Midnapore districts.
According to sources, the state cabinet has provided the necessary clearance for drilling in the Ashoknagar mineral oil field during its latest meeting, signaling a green light for large-scale energy development.
ONGC has identified 13 drilling sites in North 24 Parganas, three in South 24 Parganas, one in Nadia, and five in East and West Midnapore districts. The land selection process for these locations has been successfully completed and an estimated five acres will be leased per site.
According ONGC officials, before commencing full-scale extraction, experts will conduct in-depth assessments of the oil and gas reserves at depths ranging between 2,500 and 6,000 meters. “If the findings are favorable, commercial extraction will proceed, unlocking new economic opportunities for the state. Analysts predict that this venture will significantly bolster Bengal’s economic landscape, positioning it as a key player in India's energy sector,” said an ONGC official.
The expansion of oil and gas operations could also generate employment and infrastructure development, fostering long-term growth in the region.
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