After receiving a two-year extension to the current exploration period for Block III by the hydrocarbons minister for the Democratic Republic of Congo, Total E&P RDC has started the acquisition of a 2-D seismic survey, the company said in a news release.

The work includes acquiring 300 km of 2-D seismic data over the northern part of the Block III area, which is operated by Total E&P. SacOil holds a 12.5% effective interest in Block III.

The survey will not encroach on the Virunga National Park, Total E&P said in the release.