Muradkhanli field may become largest onshore

Balance reserves of oil in the Muradkhanli-Zardob-Jafarli block constitute around 5 billion barrels, while remaining recoverable reserves make up 500 million barrels, according to British Ramco, operator of the project.

The first 4,567-meter deep exploration well on the license area was drilled in April 2000. Oil was discovered in productive horizons and another zone. Technical problems necessitated sidetrack drilling, as a result of which oil flow of 5,000 barrels per day was obtained. Afterwards, the well was conserved for controlling purposes.

Having analyzed all the existing well data, the company decided to repair the well in order to ascertain whether it can engage in industrial production. Winner of the tender for repair operations is expected to be announced in late January, while trials are due to commence in February and complete in late March.*