BP expects PEL “very soon†for CBM block
BP expects to secure a Petroleum Exploration Licence for Coal Bed Methane exploration block BB-CBM-2005/III in West Bengal within days.
“The state government has cleared the matter and sent it for approval by the (federal) oil ministry,†BP tells PETROWATCH. “It is now a question of just a few more days.
†After approval by Delhi the file will be returned to West Bengal, which issues the PEL. BP applied for the PEL in early February.
Normally it takes about a month and a half for this crucial document to be issued. But our source insists: “There’s no cause for concern.
The application is being processed smoothly.†Meanwhile, BP is working “feverishly†to launch the mandatory environment impact assessment study.
“A tender will be issued to select a consultant for the study and we’re now scoping the framework with internal and external help.†BP is one of only two foreign companies operating a CBM exploration block in India.
Arrow Energy of Australia is the other.