Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Experts suggest oil exploration policy, Energy Research Institute in J&K

On the first day of the three day international workshop, scientists and experts today started deliberating the energy scenario in Jammu and Kashmir. 
The workshop, “Energy Challenges in Jammu and Kashmir state: A case study for the Energy Research Institute” is organized jointly by University of Kashmir, University of Jammu and Maghreb Petroleum Research Group, University College London at University of Kashmir and it started today with Governor, Mr. N. N. Vohra inaugurating it in the morning. 
The workshop has drawn delegates from USA, UK, Italy and Australia and international organizations like ENI, Italy, Utah University, USA, University College, London besides national organizations like Central Water Commission, Geological Survey of India etc. 
In the two sessions conducted today, experts discussed areas like petroleum exploration in J&K, promotion of new and renewable energy in the state, energy options and environmental concerns in the state, etc. History of hydro power, hydro potential and its industry valuation and current power production in the state also came up for discussion. 
Prof. Brinda Thusoo and Prof. G.M. Bhat in their presentation suggested formulation of an oil exploration policy by the state. They said petroleum exploration in the state has not been conducted for the last 22 years since 1987 and suggested resumption of the same. 
In his address Prof. Varun Sahni, VC, Jammu University suggested setting up of an Energy Research Institute (ERI) to cater to the evolving energy needs of a growing population. Supplementing the suggestion, VC, Kashmir University, Prof. Riyaz Punjabi said a similar workshop was conducted in the university in 1985 which was attended by experts and senior officials from central Government. He said the workshop then had also suggested setting up of an ERI to look into the issues of energy needs and options.