Digboi Refinery: Can you imagine that oil was once discovered in India with the help of elephants? This story sounds like a fairy tale, but it’s 100% true. In Digboi, a small town surrounded by tranquil and lush greenery in Assam, a historic event occurred that forever changed the course of India’s oil industry.
When Elephant Footsteps Revealed the Secret of Oil
It was 1889, when engineers from the Assam Railway and Trading Company were laying a railway line between Dibrugarh and Margaretta. Elephants played a major role in this project. But then something happened that made history. The company’s engineers noticed a sticky black substance on the elephants’ feet while working. Upon closer inspection, it was crude oil. This sight astonished everyone.
India’s first oil well was drilled in Digboi, Assam, in 1889, the same year that oil was discovered. Digging began in September, and oil was found at a depth of approximately 662 feet. This became India’s first commercially successful oil field, known as “Well No. 1.” At the time, this discovery was a source of wonder and pride for the entire nation.
The Unique Story of the Name “Digboi”
The name of Digboi is also linked to this discovery. When British engineers were digging, they would call out to the workers, “Dig Boy, Dig!” meaning “Keep digging, boys, keep digging!” Gradually, this phrase became common knowledge, and the place was named “Digboi.” This name remains a symbol of pride in India’s oil history.
Digboi became Asia oldest refinery
This discovery laid the foundation for India’s oil industry. In 1901, Asia’s oldest oil refinery was established in Digboi, Assam, and it remains operational today. It is known as “The Birthplace of Oil in Asia.” The Digboi Refinery not only showed India the path to self-reliance but also set an example for the entire Asia.
Inspiration to Learn from History
The story of Digboi demonstrates that discovery and progress can begin anywhere—sometimes, natural signs can shape the future. The oil on elephants’ feet symbolized the beginning of India’s industrial development.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on historical facts and reliable sources. Its purpose is solely to share information. Any historical or industrial judgment must be verified with authoritative sources.
