Cairn Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. has commenced its 3 D seismic survey in the Mannar Basin, an investment of US$ 100 mn. The programme will fulfil the commitment of 1450 km of 3 D seismic data acquisition and will be acquired by CGG Veritas AS using the seismic vessel “SR/ V Viking II”.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa inaugurated the seismic site yesterday (09 Dec).

Minister of Petroleum and Petroleum Resources, A. H. M. Fowzie expressed his optimism at a media briefing today (10 Dec) and said that soon oil will be found in Sri Lanka.

The completion of the data acquisition is expected in two months and accordingly in 2010 or 2011, drilling will proceed.

“The block is under explored and we are encouraged by the studies we have conducted to date”, said Indrajit Banerjee, Director Cairn Lanka.

Minister Fowzie said that cabinet papers have been submitted with regard to the rest of the 7 blocks in Mannar and soon tenders will be called.