Dhaka, Sep 19 (V7N)– The Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources has clarified that the gas reserves in Bhola are approximately 2 trillion cubic feet (tcf), not the previously reported 5.109 tcf. This correction was announced today by Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Adviser of Electricity, Energy and Mineral Resources, during a press briefing.

Addressing earlier media reports of a 5.109 tcf gas discovery in Bhola, Fouzul Kabir remarked, "If the 5.1 tcf figure were accurate, it would significantly alleviate the country’s gas crisis, and we wouldn’t need to import gas." He emphasized that experts, including energy specialists like M Tamim and Professor Badrul Imam from Dhaka University's Geology Department, were consulted to ensure accuracy.

Officials from Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (Bapex) explained that no seismic survey data exists for Bhola's Char Fasson area. However, gas resources of 2.047 tcf (with 1.432 tcf recoverable) have been confirmed in the Shahbazpur, Bhola, and Ilisha gas fields, with nine wells drilled so far in the Bhola district.

The earlier figure of 5.109 tcf, according to Bapex, is based on a probabilistic estimate using seismic data, with only a 10% probability of being accurate. Therefore, it cannot be classified as proven reserves. The report suggests conducting a 3D seismic survey to verify the estimate.

The same report confirms a more realistic estimate of 1.809 tcf, with 1.134 tcf in Char Fasson and 0.675 tcf in the nearby gas fields, both with a 90% probability.

Energy expert M Tamim explained that gas reserves can only be classified as proven after drilling confirms the presence of gas. “Announcing a resource based on probability without drilling is misleading," he added, affirming that Bhola's total gas reserves are closer to 2 tcf.

Professor Badrul Imam also dismissed the claim of 5 tcf, stating, "It cannot be considered a resource until proven through drilling."

The energy adviser concluded by announcing plans to start a seismic survey and drilling operations in the relevant areas. A proposal to drill four new wells has already been approved. "We are optimistic. We need gas as it is crucial for power generation and industrial production. We are determined to extract gas wherever there is potential," he stated.

He also mentioned that the government has initiated plans to drill 100 additional wells, expressing hope that these efforts would eventually yield significant results.

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