NBWL Approves Oil and Gas Exploration in Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has approved oil and gas exploration in the eco-sensitive zone of Assam’s Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary. Vedanta Group’s Cairn Oil & Gas submitted the proposal, deemed in the “national interest” by Assam’s forest officials.

An inspection in November concluded minimal environmental damage from exploratory drilling, with no commercial extraction planned in the eco-sensitive zone. Vedanta assured safe exploration practices.

The sanctuary, covering 20.98 sq km with a 264.92 sq km eco-sensitive zone, is critical for wildlife corridors. Local stakeholders demand village council approval for drilling.