Kazakhstan, Astana, October 23/ Trend D.Mukhtarov /
The oil and gas production in Kashagan field remains shut until the results of the expert studies are available and restart of the facilities can be carried out safely, the statement from the project's operator NCOC said.
" Experts are investigating the root cause of the pipeline events. In order to ensure the continued compliance with the highest safety requirements, it is anticipated that the activities relevant to inspections and investigations will take some weeks," the statement said.
On October 9 2013, during a routine inspection of the gas pipeline from the D Island to the onshore processing facility Bolashak, indications of traces of gas were detected some two kilometers outside Bolashak plant within the sanitary protection zone.
As a preventive measure the affected part of the pipeline was depressurized and flushed with inert gas to make it accessible for inspection. The Department of Emergency Situations was informed in accordance with regulations. No gas emissions which could be harmful to people or the environment have been detected.
As a further preventive measure, sections of the onshore parts of the gas pipeline are being uncovered to allow a thorough visual inspection.
The offshore part of the pipeline is being monitored carefully using vessels and helicopters equipped with sensors to detect potential gas seeps.
"No anomalies have been noticed. The whole gas pipeline from the D Island to the onshore processing facility Bolashak has been depressurized and emptied," the statement said.