Efforts are underway to procure two rigs for the Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Limited (BAPEX) to expedite gas exploration activities. Petrobangla Chairman Md Abdul Mannan confirmed that a proposal to purchase two modern exploration drilling rigs has been finalized. BAPEX currently operates five rigs—Bijoy-10, Bijoy-11, Bijoy-12, Bijoy-18, and IPS-1. The addition of the two proposed rigs will bring the total to seven.
The evaluation process for procuring a 2,000-horsepower rig is currently underway. Simultaneously, a Detail Project Proposal (DPP) is being prepared for the procurement of another rig with a capacity of 1,500 horsepower. Once the DPP is finalized, it will be sent to the Planning Commission for approval.
The government has plans to strengthen state-owned BAPEX and accelerate domestic gas exploration. BAPEX has been successful in drilling various wells, including development wells and workover, to boost gas production from domestic sources. Additionally, the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) approved a proposal for BAPEX to drill one appraisal-cum-development well and two exploratory wells to enhance the domestic natural gas supply.
The Begumganj-5 appraisal-cum-development well is slated to be drilled to a depth of about 3,550 meters, while the Begumganj-6 exploratory well will be drilled to about 3,400 meters. The Sunetra-2 exploratory well will be drilled to approximately 5,300 meters, followed by testing and completion subject to gas discovery.
These efforts are part of broader initiatives to ensure energy security and meet the growing demand for natural gas in Bangladesh. The acquisition of additional rigs and the planned drilling activities are expected to significantly contribute to the country's gas exploration and production capabilities.
