Chevron keen to work with govt, NGOs

International oil company Chevron has shown keen interest in working with the forest and environment department and NGOs to ensure proper monitoring of its planned seismic survey in environmentally sensible Lawachhara forest in Moulvibazar.
Moulvibazar gas field within the reserved forest has been developed and is now operated by Chevron. It is producing around 75 million cubic feet gas per day (mmcfd).
The company sought such support for proper monitoring of its work so that environmental issues are addressed while conducting the three-dimension (3D) survey.
Considering the country's fast growing gas demand, Chevron moved to carry out the 3D survey, as it believes that such high-tech survey will give better picture of the reservoir and for effective well placement in future. It also believes that the survey may uncover more reserves leading to sustained gas production.
But, officials said, about 20 percent of the total area under proposed survey is within the protected Lawachara National Forest, which is treated as haven of flora and fauna.
The survey is to begin next month and take 3 to 4 months to complete.
Chevron has already submitted the survey plan to the environment department, which has given the green signal. Petrobangla had earlier approved the plan.
Petrobangla Director Major (retd) Muktadir Ali told UNB they are convinced the survey would not harm the forest or environment. "We're fully satisfied with the Chevron's work plan," he said.
But some environmental groups have been opposing the survey arguing that it will leave an adverse affect on environment.
In an exclusive interview with the news agency, Chevron's Bangladesh Chief Steve Wilson said they are willing to work together with the environment department and non-government environmentalists.
He said the company has been working closely with the forest department and department of environment and assured them of total compliance with their rules and regulations.
He said as part of the mitigation plans, Chevron suggested formation of an independent monitoring body comprising officials from forest department and environmentalists.
Wilson said they will use the latest survey techniques to avoid any significant adverse impact on the environment. "Once the survey is complete, the area will be returned to its original condition," he claimed.
He said measures have already been taken to protect the conservation values of the area. Minimum number of people will work in the forest and small drill pumps equipped with best quality mufflers to reduce noise will be used.