Abstract

The initial rationale for hydrocarbon exploration in Indian Proterozoic basins is derived from the fact that these have large basinal areas, wide geographical distribution, varied geotectonic setting and significant sedimentary fill. However, scarcity of reliable sub-surface information remains main limitations to explore them. Proterozoic basins are on the record elsewhere in the world to be producing oil and gas, which inspires us to intensify activities in Cuddapah Basin which have similar geological set up. Renewed thrust for hydrocarbon exploration in India in Frontier areas, especially Proterozoic basins have gained importance for unexplored hydrocarbon traps. An attempt has been made to draw new exploration rationale for prioritizing wild cat exploratory locations and ranking of prospects for drilling in frontier Proterozoic Cuddapah basin. Three potential trap types have been identified in the study. One is close to western margin with stratigraphic reefal trap and other two are in eastern margin unconformity related stratigraphic trap formed by Kurnool base and Chitravati group and the structural trap with positive flower structures formed by the transpressional tectonics. Outcrop analogues of diagenetic trap and stratigraphiclithologic trap like collapsed formation and karst formation exist at Belum cave in central northern part of block suggests similar entrapment situations in the sub-surface. New insights into the potential trap types identified on sub-surface seismic data and clues from surface exposures boosts our confidence for exploring in Cuddapah basin.