Tuesday is the sixth day in a row that the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has been fighting to limit the gas leak in Bhatiapar Barichuk hamlet in Sivasagar. The state has witnessed high-level visits as a result of the ongoing situation.
CM Sarma called the incident "alarming" in a news conference and assured the impacted families that they will receive full support, including monetary compensation.
“ONGC cannot be allowed to shirk responsibility. I have directed Industries Minister Bimal Bora to monitor the situation, and if necessary, I will escalate this matter to the ONGC Chairman and even the Prime Minister,” Sarma said.
Sarma added that an investigation would be conducted into the involvement of SK Petro, a private contractor hired by ONGC. " We will investigate how such a hazardous operation was outsourced, and whether safety protocols were followed,” he said.
As the Sivasagar gas leak enters its sixth day, the chief minister provided Rs 25,000 in aid for the victims. Additionally, a US expert has been summoned in, and advanced fire control procedures are being implemented.
The ONGC Chairman, who is scheduled to visit the location shortly, has already had a conversation with the state's chief secretary, the chief minister stated. In order to help manage the situation, which is still complicated because of the unusually high well pressure, a well control specialist from the United States is also being contacted. Additionally, the Chief Secretary contacted the Union Petroleum Secretary, who promised to provide all required assistance.
About 350 households have been forced to relocate to temporary relief camps as a result of the June 12 leak, which is still dangerous because of the constant high-pressure gas leak.