Exclusive: Oil Drilling in Assam National Park Can Put Biodiversity at High Risk

Oil drilling in Assam's national parks has become a hot-button issue, raising concerns about its potential impact on biodiversity. This article explores the recent findings from a study by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) on the high risks associated with oil drilling in Assam's Dibru-Saikhowa National Park.

Overview of the Situation

Assam National Park is a critical habitat teeming with diverse flora and fauna. However, Oil India Limited's plans to drill at seven locations within the park have sparked a debate about the environmental repercussions.

Importance of Assam National Park

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is not just a local treasure but a significant ecological zone known for its rich biodiversity. It is home to numerous species that are rare, threatened, or endangered.

Background

The 2020 Blowout Incident

In May 2020, a blowout at an Oil India Limited well resulted in an explosion and fire that lasted over five months. This disaster led to the loss of an estimated 55% of the biodiversity in the Dibru-Saikhowa landscape, highlighting the fragile nature of the ecosystem.

Impact on Local Communities

Thousands of people lost their livelihoods due to the blowout. The affected areas are still recovering, with local communities bearing the brunt of the ecological and economic damages.

The 2023 Biodiversity Impact Assessment

Purpose of the Study

Following the 2020 incident, the Supreme Court mandated a Biodiversity Impact Assessment for any future drilling. The Assam State Biodiversity Board, in collaboration with the IUCN, conducted this study to assess the potential risks.

Involvement of IUCN

The IUCN, renowned for its expertise in conservation, was enlisted to ensure a thorough and credible assessment. Their involvement lent significant weight to the study's findings.

Key Findings of the Report

The IUCN report, submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in July 2023, concluded that the overall risk to biodiversity from oil drilling is high. The report details the rich biodiversity of the area and highlights several severe risks associated with drilling activities.

Ecological Importance of the Affected Areas

Maghori Beel Wetland

The Maghori Beel is a critical wetland within Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, providing habitat for numerous species and serving as a vital resource for local communities. Its ecological functions include flood buffering and water regulation.

Flora and Fauna Diversity

The park is home to a vast array of species, including over 86 species of trees, 57 shrubs, 152 herbs, and 47 Pteridophytes. The fauna includes 147 species of birds, 112 butterflies, 10 mammals, six Herpetofauna, and 19 fish species, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

Identified Risks and Potential Impacts

Removal of Vegetation

One of the significant risks identified in the study is the removal of vegetation, which can lead to habitat loss and fragmentation, severely affecting the local ecosystem.

Increased Vehicular Traffic

The increase in vehicular traffic associated with drilling activities poses another high risk, leading to disturbances and potential harm to wildlife.

Damage to Existing Flora

Drilling operations can cause direct damage to the existing flora, further threatening the delicate balance of the park's ecosystem.

Local Perspectives

Interviews with Local Residents

Residents, whose lives are intertwined with the park's ecosystem, expressed their concerns over the potential impacts of drilling. They highlighted the biodiversity beyond the park's boundaries, which is also at risk.

Concerns Raised by Petitioner Bimal Gogoi

Bimal Gogoi, a resident and petitioner, emphasized that while Oil India claims their activities will be outside the park, the resources drawn will inevitably impact the park's biodiversity.

Insights from Dr. Ranjan Das

Dr. Ranjan Das, an experienced naturalist, pointed out the long-term depletion of natural cover in the park due to previous oil exploration activities. He remains hopeful that with proper restoration efforts, the area can be saved.

Mitigation Measures Suggested

Avoidance of Heavy Vehicles

The IUCN study suggests avoiding the movement of heavy vehicles through the forested areas to minimize disturbances and potential damage to the ecosystem.

Species Monitoring During Drilling

Monitoring sensitive species, such as the Gangetic dolphin, during drilling phases is recommended to ensure their protection and mitigate adverse effects.

Legal and Environmental Reactions

Gauhati High Court’s Stay on Drilling

In December 2020, the Gauhati High Court permitted hydrocarbon exploration at seven locations inside the protected area due to environmental concerns. This legal action underscores the significance of protecting the park's biodiversity.

NGT's Considerations on Environmental Clearance

The NGT, after reviewing the new Biodiversity Impact Assessment report, is currently questioning whether the environmental clearance granted to Oil India needs to be re-evaluated. This could be a critical turning point in the protection of Assam's biodiversity.

Conclusion

The findings of the IUCN's Biodiversity Impact Assessment make it clear that oil drilling in Assam's Dibru-Saikhowa National Park poses a high risk to its biodiversity. The park's rich flora and fauna, along with the local communities' livelihoods, hang in a delicate balance. As legal and environmental bodies deliberate on the future of drilling activities, it is imperative to prioritize the conservation of this unique ecological landscape.

Regards,

Sahil Sajad

"Protecting biodiversity isn't just about saving plants and animals; it's about preserving the delicate balance of life that sustains us all. The future of Assam's Dibru-Saikhowa National Park hinges on our commitment to safeguard its rich and irreplaceable ecosystem from the ravages of unchecked oil drilling." - Sahil Sajad