Two Greka Drilling rigs on the move in West Bengal

The AIM-traded independent unconventional oil and gas friller initially announced the contract win on 15 February.

It said Essar has now issued the mobilisation order for two drilling rigs. in accordance with the contract, with Greka expecting to start drilling operations in May.

Essar was described by the company as the largest producer of coalbed methane in India, principally from the Raniganj East Block in West Bengal, where Greka is contracted.

"We are delighted that we are again commencing work for Essar in the development of the Raniganj block,” said Greka Drilling CEO Randeep Grewal.

“Greka Drilling's high quality semi-automated GD75 rigs, that are already situated within country, will drill both vertical and directional wells on a day-rate basis, rather than a metres drilled basis,” he added.

Grewal said the company was also in discussions with other CBM developers in India, with a view to assisting them in monetising their gas resources.

He said it was positive to see the Government of India remaining committed to the development of CBM as a major source of domestic clean energy.

“We are at the forefront of CBM industry discussions in India and the remobilisation of our drilling rigs for Essar is testament to that."