Assam: ONGC clears path for capping well in Sivasagar

OUR CORRESPONDENT

SIVASAGAR:  The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), in coordination with international experts from Cudd Pressure Control, achieved a major breakthrough in its ongoing well control efforts at RDS 147A.

According to a statement issued by ONGC’s Corporate Communications, the Crisis Management Team (CMT), along with the expert crew, successfully cleared approximately 10 trailer loads of rig material from the site. This marked a crucial step forward, as it clears the way for the upcoming well-capping operations. The heavy equipment necessary for the capping process is currently en route to the site.

In tandem, a detailed inspection of the upper section of the rig mast was carried out to plan the safe removal of tubing stacked in the derrick. A specialised extra-long boom crane is being mobilised for this high-risk task, with deployment expected shortly.

Air quality monitoring continues to be carried out without interruption in and around the site. Encouragingly, no hydrocarbon traces were detected beyond a 30-metre radius of the well. Based on the latest assessments, residents living beyond 500 metres from the site were informed that it was now safe to return to their homes and resume normal activities, including cooking and the use of electricity.

Meanwhile, a further reduction in gas pressure was recorded, enhancing the prospects for a safer and more controlled capping operation. Water blanketing of the well continued round the clock as part of ongoing safety protocols.

ONGC also reiterated its support to Sivasagar District Administration in managing relief camps. The corporation is also providing round-the-clock medical assistance to affected residents.

 Also Read: ONGC achieves critical milestone in gas flow reduction at RDS147(A)

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