Cairn Energy has announced a fourth significant oil discovery in northern Rajasthan with the N-V-1 exploration well which is located 18 kilometres west-north-west of the Mangala field, 19 kilometres west-south-west of the N-C discovery, and in close proximity to the existing north-western boundary of the block.
The N-V-1 well, which is currently operating at a depth of 812 metres, enountered an oil column of 62 metres with an estimated 35 metres of net oil pay in excellent quality Fatehgarh sands. The well was drilled 90 metres down-dip from the currently mapped crest of the structure. The top Fatehgarh was encountered at 590 metres and an oil water contact was established in the well.
An open hole test programme has been carried out across one 10 metre interval just above the oil water contact. The well flowed for around six hours and produced oil to surface with a specific gravity of approximately 21 degrees API. Oil flow rates were limited due to the oil density and viscosity combined with the shallow depth and low pressure of the reservoir. As a result, a cased hole test on pump will be required to determine the true formation productivity.
The mean oil initially in place as currently mapped is estimated to be approximately 300 million barrels. However, the full extent of the structure is unconstrained due to the paucity of seismic data off the block to the north.
As was the case with the N-C discovery, agreement with the Indian Government will be required for a second extension area beyond the current north-western block boundary before further appraisal.
Cairn holds a 100% interest in Block RJ-ON-90/1, which currently covers an area of 5,831 square kilometres. Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Ltd (“ONGC”) has a right to 30% of any development area resulting from a commercial discovery on the block.
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