Technological Innovations Sought for Heavy Crude Oil Extraction in Assam

Oil India Limited has made a notable discovery of heavy crude oil on the north bank of the Brahmaputra River in Assam. The company is exploring advanced technological solutions for its extraction, as traditional methods have proven ineffective. This discovery, located in the Kobochapori area of Dhemaji, marks a significant milestone in hydrocarbon exploration. The Supreme Court's recent ruling allows OIL to pursue new drilling proposals, enhancing the potential for commercial extraction. With a focus on innovative techniques, OIL aims to assess the feasibility of tapping into these valuable resources. Read on to learn more about the implications of this discovery and the challenges ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 13, 2026, 10:12 IST

New Hydrocarbon Discovery in Assam

Source: PTI Image

Guwahati, Sept 13: Recently, a significant discovery of crude oil has been made on the north bank of the Brahmaputra River, identified as “heavy” crude. Oil India Limited (OIL) is currently exploring technological methods for its commercial extraction.

Hydrocarbons have been confirmed at Kobochapori, situated in the Jonai region of Dhemaji.

“This marks the first confirmation of hydrocarbons on the north bank, following extensive exploration and seismic studies. The data is presently being analyzed,” stated Ranjit Rath, CMD of OIL.

He noted that the crude oil found is “heavy,” and OIL is working on strategies to facilitate its flow to the surface.

“We are investigating global technologies and plan to drill more wells to assess the commercial viability of extraction,” Rath added.

Due to the unconventional characteristics of the crude, traditional production methods have not been effective in achieving a consistent oil flow.

The Kobochapori well has been drilled to depths exceeding 4,300 meters in a challenging riverine environment.

This block spans 524 square kilometers across Assam, including Dhemaji, Tinsukia, and Dibrugarh districts, and extends 1 square kilometer into Arunachal Pradesh (East Siang district). A large portion of this area is located within the Brahmaputra River.

This development follows a recent Supreme Court ruling permitting OIL to withdraw its challenge against the Centre’s denial of its Extended Reach Drilling (ERD) proposal aimed at accessing hydrocarbon reserves beneath the Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, allowing them to submit a new petition.

OIL contended that the drilling infrastructure would be situated outside the protected area, with wells extending approximately 3,500 to 4,000 meters underground.