Unlocking The Hidden Potential CHT Gas Reserves Can Be A Game Changer

It is well known that gas-prone Bangladesh, the largest riverine delta in the world, remains one of the least explored hydrocarbon basins.

- Engr. Khondkar Abdus Saleque

Over the years, limited exploration has been carried out—mostly in structural traps—in other words, only the low-hanging fruits have been plucked. Yet, almost two-thirds of the onshore area and the entire offshore region remain virtually unexplored. Even extensive seismic surveys have not been conducted. The proven recoverable reserves of natural gas are on the verge of complete depletion. Bangladesh’s gas-based economy continues to struggle with a chronic supply shortage.

With its fragile economy, Bangladesh cannot sustain an exclusive dependency on imported fuels. It must explore and exploit the potential gas basins—both onshore and offshore—systematically and professionally. The highly prospective Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) could be a game changer if exploration is prioritized. Geologists and engineers have consistently recommended further exploration at Sitapahar, Potiya, Kasalang, and Jholdi. But due to a lack of commitment from policymakers and the absence of dynamic leadership at Petrobangla, little to nothing has been done so far.

Now, with a looming gas famine, exploration in the CHT must receive top-priority attention. Earlier limited explorations revealed gas shows, and some discoveries have been reported in the adjacent Tripura region of India. One study found that the Chittagong Hill Tracts feature anticlinal structures like the Sitakund, Sitapahar, Bandarban, and Teknaf anticlines, along with a major fault on the western flank and associated gas seepages—factors that had attracted various oil and gas companies to consider drilling in the area. Nonetheless, these folds remain poorly studied in terms of surface and subsurface geologic analysis. Some encouraging leads and prospects were identified.