🌿 Unearthing Energy: Dailekh’s Natural Gas Breakthrough
Nestled in the rugged terrain of Karnali Province, Dailekh district has recently emerged as the site of one of Nepal’s most exciting energy discoveries—an estimated 1.12 billion cubic metres of natural gas. Here's a closer look at this development and what it means for the region and the nation.
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1. The Journey So Far
In May 2024, the Department of Mines and Geology, with support from the China Geological Survey and CNPC Xibu Engineering, began drilling at Jaljale, Bhairavi Rural Municipality–1, targeting depths around 4,000 meters .
By January 2025, drilling had hit 4,013 m, with core samples sent to Chinese labs for analysis .
Today, a preliminary estimate reveals about 1.12 billion cubic metres of natural gas—enough to meet Nepal’s consumption for approximately 50 years .
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2. Drilling Highlights & Technical Progress
Initial ground surveys included seismic, magneto-telluric, and geochemical studies—completed ahead of drilling operations .
With over 3,930 m drilled, only a few dozen metres remained as of early 2025, signifying the near-completion of phase 1 .
Now entering the next stage, Chinese labs are evaluating methane quantity and quality to determine commercial viability. A comprehensive final report is expected by December 2025 .
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3. Local Significance: The “Akhand Deep” Flame
The Jaljale region hosts naturally occurring gas seepages, which have ignited self-sustaining flames known locally as “Akhand Deep.” These have become modest religious and tourist attractions—signing a deeper cultural impact of the discovery .
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4. What Lies Ahead
Laboratory analysis (ongoing in China) will clarify gas purity, pressure, and overall composition .
Following that, Nepal and China may enter an intergovernmental agreement, defining who develops and operates the field—Chinese partners will likely lead initial phases .
If commercial viability is confirmed, infrastructure planning—pipelines, processing facilities, and export or domestic supply lines—will begin.
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5. Broader Implications for Nepal
A domestic natural gas supply could significantly reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels, providing a cleaner alternative to diesel and LPG.
Economically, a gas field could usher in energy security, fiscal dividends, and regional development—while geopolitically, it introduces a strategic dimension to Nepal-China ties but may compete with Indian energy interests .
Environmentally, natural gas emits less CO₂ than other fossil fuels—yet it still counters Nepal’s commitment to climate neutrality by 2045.
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6. Challenges & Debates
Extraction cost and long-term demand risk: Is this a profitable investment or a stranded asset by the time infrastructure is built?
Environmental impact on fragile Himalayan ecosystems requires careful oversight and community engagement.
Geopolitical balance: While China’s involvement brings funding and expertise, Nepal must also manage complex regional dynamics involving India and its energy interests .
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Final Thoughts
The Dailekh discovery is a pivotal blend of geology, diplomacy, and economic aspirations. As Nepal waits for the final December report, the glow of “Akhand Deep” reminds us: beneath Dailekh’s hills lies the promise of a new chapter in Nepal’s energy story.
Will this flame ignite Nepal’s path to energy self-reliance, or dim in the shadow of global trends and practical constraints? Stay tuned—Dailekh’s future could shape the nation’s energy future.
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Have thoughts or questions about the Dailekh finds? Drop a comment below or share this post to fuel the national conversation!
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*(All data and quotes are sourced from Nepali news and government releases, June 2025)*
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