Cambay Basin, India: Geological Review and Exploration Potential of a Moderately Explored Hydrocarbon Province

Pratap V. Nair, Dr D K Srivastava

Abstract: The Cambay Basin, an intracratonic rift located in northwestern India, has long been recognized as a significant onshore hydrocarbon province. Despite extensive exploration efforts since the 1950s, a substantial portion of its resource potential remains to be discovered. This review outlines the basin?s tectonic evolution, petroleum system components, reservoir characteristics, and exploration history. Special emphasis is given to the syn-rift and post-rift sedimentary phases and their implications for hydrocarbon accumulation. The study also evaluates present-day challenges in data quality, seismic interpretation, and deeper depth exploration efforts. Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) techniques and improved reservoir management strategies are discussed as key tools for rejuvenating mature fields. The article advocates for a multidisciplinary, geologically driven exploration strategy to unlock frontier areas and improve recovery rates in alignment with global benchmarks. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive geological review of the Cambay Basin with a focus on its hydrocarbon potential, reservoir characteristics, and opportunities for future discovery and enhanced recovery.

Keywords: Cambay Basin, Hydrocarbon Exploration, Rift Tectonics, Petroleum Systems, Enhanced Oil Recovery