ONGC faces legal heat for running Bhatiapar rig without environmental clearance amid ongoing gas blowout

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 24, 2025

As a gas blowout at the Bhatiapar-Barichuk well site in Sivasagar district entered its 13th day, the Pollution Control Board, Assam (PCBA) issued a show-cause notice to the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) for operating oil well No. 147 without mandatory environmental clearances.

The notice, dated June 17, gives ONGC 15 days to respond or face penalties, including potential legal action. PCBA officials allege that ONGC violated multiple environmental regulations, including the Water Act (1974), the Air Act (1981), and the Hazardous Waste Management Rules (2016).

A recent inspection revealed uncontrolled gas emissions from the well, prompting the board to act. The PCBA stated that ONGC had failed to obtain both the Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) for the site in the Rudrasagar oilfield, despite prior directives (TECH-12013/2/2025-CCA-PCBA) to do so.

Citing a 2019 National Green Tribunal (NGT) order, the board reaffirmed its authority to impose Environmental Compensation Fines (ECF) for non-compliance. Officials expressed concern about the environmental and public health risks posed by the prolonged gas leak.

In response, ONGC released a statement emphasizing its continued efforts to control the blowout at RDS#147A, despite adverse weather conditions. The company, working with international well control experts, reported progress, including the successful commissioning of a 200-ton crane with an 80-metre boom to support capping operations.

According to ONGC, teams have carried out stabilisation work amid heavy rainfall and rising water levels in the Dikhow River, relocating pumping systems to higher ground as a precaution. Around-the-clock water blanketing is ongoing as part of safety protocols.

A gas composition analysis conducted on June 24 showed the emission to be 97% methane, which ONGC claimed poses no immediate risk to nearby habitations. The corporation reiterated its commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, and collaboration with local authorities to contain the situation swiftly.