Back-to-back blowouts at Bhatiapar: fresh oil leak adds to ONGC crisis

OUR CORRESPONDENT

SIVASAGAR: A new explosion and oil leak at an ONGC oil well in Bhatiapar’s Bari Chuk area has intensified local concerns, even as a gas leak from Rig No. 147(A) entered its eighth consecutive day without resolution.

The fresh incident occurred at approximately 10 AM on Thursday at Well No. 204, located just 600 meters from the ongoing gas blowout site. The blast was reportedly caused by a malfunction in the well’s valve, leading to an uncontrolled release of crude oil. The affected well had been extracting oil for supply to the GGS at Boliaghat.

The uncontrolled upward pressure from underground sources is believed to have ruptured the valve, causing the sudden discharge of crude oil and triggering panic among local residents. ONGC engineers arrived at the scene and were able to contain the leak within two hours of the explosion.

Meanwhile, the natural gas leak at Rig No. 147(A), which began over a week ago, continues unabated. Despite efforts by ONGC’s team of specialist engineers, including the Junk Shot operation, no success has been achieved so far. The presence of the nearby Dikhow River has enabled fire services to continuously spray water over the site to prevent the highly flammable methane gas from igniting. Fortunately, no fire has occurred.

According to ONGC sources, all technological attempts to contain the gas leak have failed, and the company now says that it was relying on natural reduction in underground pressure to halt the emission. With more than 200 workers deployed daily in containment efforts, the company is now reportedly preparing to bring in a team of foreign experts to assist with the situation.

Thursday’s incident, occurring so close to the first, has deepened public anxiety. Residents in the vicinity report ongoing health issues and over 50 affected individuals have sought treatment at the free health camp set up by the Sivasagar District Health Department.

Also Read: Effigy of ONGC Executive Director burnt at Assam Asset Headquarters, Nazira

Also Watch: