10 days on, ONGC pushes ahead with well control in Assam as locals demand accountability and aid

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 21, 2025

The gas blowout at Oil and Natural Gas Corporation’s (ONGC) well RDS#147A in Bhatiapar, Sivasagar district, entered its 10th day on Saturday, with the company reporting major progress in containment. ONGC stated that the gas flow has dropped significantly, calling it a critical step in the ongoing control efforts.

In a statement, ONGC confirmed that experts from CUDD Pressure Control, USA, have arrived at the site, carried out a preliminary assessment, and reviewed the actions taken so far. The visiting team supported ONGC’s approach and agreed on a joint plan for the next stage of operations.

“Site preparations are underway, including the removal of tubular from the well and the mobilization of cranes to clear the rig floor. Water blanketing continues round the clock as a safety measure. Monitoring of flood levels in the nearby Dikhow River is also ongoing,” the company said.

Real-time gas detection is being used to track air quality around the site. ONGC also reported that medical assistance is being provided to affected residents through a relief camp.

While containment work progresses, unrest is growing in the surrounding community. Over 300 residents, led by the All Assam Tai Ahom Students’ Union (AATASU), held a one-hour protest at ONGC’s Assam Asset headquarters in Nazira, demanding long-term healthcare support and compensation.

AATASU general secretary Bhaskar Jyoti Borgohain accused both ONGC and the district administration of downplaying the crisis. He said residents are unable to cook due to safety concerns and are reporting rising health issues, including skin and heart problems. Sound pollution from the blowout site is also affecting children, he said.

Borgohain blamed the incident on safety lapses by the contractor SK Petro, alleging that unskilled labour was used in violation of regulations. AATASU is demanding the arrest of company owner Krishna Agarwal, the firm’s blacklisting, and a high-level inquiry into the cause of the blowout.

Although the state government has disbursed ₹25,000 to each affected family from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund and is providing meals, Borgohain said this is not enough. He called on ONGC to compensate for agricultural damage, livestock loss, and long-term health risks.

Memorandums outlining these demands have been submitted to the Sivasagar District Commissioner, the Executive Director of ONGC’s Assam Asset, and Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. AATASU has requested a written response to their demands.