GIS - AN Effective Support or Oil-Spill Response
The Solution:
Solution to this problem is offered by a geographic information system (GIS) through
providing analysis and visualization capabilities for a specific field location, a
potential zone for oil spill. G.I.S is a geographic information system, a computer
system designed to organize analyze and present the information with reference to
geographical locations.
GIS is useful in responding to oil spills due to its ability to integrate large amount of
marine, coastal and oil production / transportation data. The key to making use of
the GIS is collecting and maintaining critical data, such as wind speed, wind
direction, ocean current direction, density, and pH, so that it is available in case of a
spill. Once spill has occurred; these pre-existing data-bases are queried, and the
vector maps are analyzed to see what the major concerns are. It can also identify
the sections of coastlines most sensitive to oil spills.
This paper envisages about a model, which we have developed for an offshore field
along east coast of India. After pre/post-monsoon surveys, available data like
physical and chemical parameters are processed using Geomedia Professional for
analysis in this fragile environment, to predict the extent and location of a spread.
This capability enables us to prepare for oil spills and respond more quickly, thereby
minimizing the damage to the environment.
Although spill can never be predicted to happen, a help can come from GIS in
planning for the clean up and predicting the oil movement. Also it can decrease the
frequency and speed up the clean up process enough that it a worth while tool for
the environment. Faster response times, updating of data and quick analysis and
action are the features of GIS, which serves it as an excellent decision supporting
technique for contingency planning, risk assessment and remedial operations in
case of an eventuality. Thus GIS saves valuable time that can be used to save
nature and human life.
The Methodology:
1. Area Of Study :
Location:
The Ravva oil field is located between the latitudes 16014’ N, 16026’ N and
longitudes 82007’ E, 82011’ E. that is off east coast of India. It is located in shallow
waters (depths ranging from 5 to 15 meters) at about 5 km. from shore off
Amalapuram and the aerial extent of the prospect is about 100 sq. Km. The
continental shelf off the off shore facilities location is narrow, broadens to the south
and narrows to the north. The general orientation of the coast is south-west/ northeast.
Climatic Conditions:
The climate in the area is tropical. Wind and wave patterns are governed by the
annually recurring monsoons and transition periods between them, dividing the year
into four seasons. The two transition periods, April – May and October – November
are characterized by occurrence of cyclonic storms, the latter period being more
active. The south west monsoon (June – September) is characterized by strong and
persistent wind and rough seas. North east monsoon (December – March) is the fair
weather season with light, variable wind and generally calm seas.
Geo-coded Vector Map :( Showing Local Environment)
