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Source-This post is based on the article “Wadge Bank facing threat from hydrocarbon exploration” published in “Deccan Chronicle” on 20th Janauary 2024.
Why in the News?
Wadge Bank faces a potential threat as the Indian government considers offering three oil and gas blocks for exploration and development. The blocks designated for exploration coincide with the Wadge Bank.
About Wadge Bank
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | It is a 10,000 square kilometers area, located approximately 50 kilometers south of Kanyakumari. |
| Features | It features shallow waters, a nearly flat bottom topography, and a continental shelf. |
| Significance | 1. This area is rich in biodiversity and is considered India’s most valuable fishery resource. 2. The low intensity of currents, waves, and tides makes it an ideal location for the accumulation of nutrients and fish food. |
What are Hydrocarbons and what government initiatives are in place for hydrocarbon exploration in India?
1) Hydrocarbons are organic compounds made up of hydrogen and carbon atoms.
2) They are the fundamental constituents of fossil fuels, including coal, natural gas, and petroleum.
3) Hydrocarbon exploration refers to the process of searching for and identifying potential sources of hydrocarbons, such as oil and natural gas, beneath the Earth’s surface.
4) Government Initiatives:
a. Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) was adopted in 2016.
b. Objective– To enhance domestic oil and gas production by intensifying exploration activity and investment.
| For more information on initiatives for hydrocarbon exploration Click here to read |
UPSC Syllabus- Geography and Places in News/Science & Technology
