Oil development and exploratory wells: No compromise on environment, says T.N. Minister

Tamil Nadu Environment and Climate Change Minister V.K. Rajeev on Tuesday said the State administration would not compromise on protecting the environment, marine ecosystem, fish wealth and the livelihood of fishermen.

Replying to a special calling-attention motion on the environmental impact caused by development wells dug by Hindustan Oil Exploration Company Limited (HOECL) in Parangipettai in Cuddalore district, he remarked the government would take concrete steps to protect the environment. The motion was moved by CPI member T. Ramachandran, CPI(M) member K. Marmuthu and Chidambaram Assembly constituency member Thameemun Ansari.

Mr Rajvee said HOECL had already dug four development wells and one exploratory well and was now planning to dig four more development wells after obtaining permission from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The Terms of Reference for the Environment Impact Assessment was issued on August 21, 2025. As per the terms, the company should obtain permission under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) regulations and elicit public opinion after publishing the details in a newspaper 30 days in advance.

HOECL applied through PARIVESH, the single-window system for forest, wildlife and environmental clearance data throughout States and Union Territories, in July 2026, and the application was under consideration by the Cuddalore District Coastal Zone Management Authority.