The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

American Petroleum Company in Bangladesh "Chevron Bangladesh" has claimed its ongoing seismic survey in the Layachara National Park will not disrupt its natural beauty.

"Chevron Bangladesh has kept the preservation of nature on the top of its priority. Ongoing seismic survey has least possibility to damage its natural beauty," said President Chevron-Bangladesh Steve Wilson and External Affairs Director of the company Naser Ahmed.

Dispelling all confusion regarding this seismic survey process, over which some local environmental and social organisations have complained for last couple of days, the Chevron official told local journalists and social workers that they will avoid any action that could damage its nature.

President of Chevron Bangladesh said the company is conducting the survey over 150 sq-km to enhance gas products up to 50 per cent. This additional gas will be burned to produce electricity in order to light additional 10 lakh households in its surroundings, they said.

They also informed that the survey started in January 2008 after gaining approval from the Petrobangla, Power and Forestry Department of Bangladesh Government as well as from international committee for environmental survey.

The survey process would continue till June 2008, they added.