Hello Tomas. As I said,I'm not to familiar with the logistics of the pipeline,and don't know for sure whether the line would be above ground or below, obviously Lundin should know<g>.
But, as an outside observer, and given the rebel activity(and assuming the pipeline would be a prime target),along with limited knowledge.."A high priority must be given to the construction of elevated roads and pads for well sites in order to conduct
drilling operations during the rainy season, which typically lasts from June to November. During this period the clay soil turns into gumbo, making unimproved roads impassable.", I would have guessed the mainline to be underground.
The reasons for my "guess", if underground,the pipeline would be presented as less of a target to sabotage. And given the area has a high clay content(unstable ground),I would have assumed it would be more feasible to lay the pipe underground.You can't just set piers/piles/pilecaps etc. on clay,you have to get down to stable ground and work upwards.
I am by no means familiar with oil/gas pipeline-but pipe is pipe-whether carrying oil/gas or water/sewerage. Best bet if someone really wants to know, contact the pipe suppliers, who supplied "On October 30, contracts were let for the manufacture of pre-coated steel pipe for the pipeline and certain related gathering lines."
The suppliers-China Petroleum Technology & Development Corporation for 1,110 kilometres of pipe and Mannesmann Handel AG, a German corporation, for 500 kilometres. They could tell you if the pipe is for above or below ground(note-the pipe was precoated to resist the elements)
DD
PS, I would have guessed the mainline would be underground and the more secure,smaller diameter trunklines might be aboveground. |
