Estrella Resources (ASX:ESR) said the Autoridade Nacional dos Minerais in East Timor approved its environmental impact statement and environmental management plan for drilling at the Werumata limestone project, according to a Monday Australian bourse filing.

Operations will begin immediately, and the initial drill campaign will consist of 26 reverse circulation holes, with further follow-up stratigraphic diamond drilling and infill drilling to be conducted, as required.

A bathymetric survey is being planned off the coast of Werumata to facilitate port and infrastructure planning.