Gas Leak Crisis in Sivasagar: Ongoing Health Monitoring and Relief Efforts

In Sivasagar, a gas leak at ONGC's well number 147 has disrupted the lives of many villagers for over two weeks. Health monitoring initiatives are underway for more than 1,200 displaced residents, with medical services available around the clock. Despite the challenges, ONGC is making progress in managing the leak, and relief efforts are focused on those still in danger. The situation is evolving, with gas concentration levels showing signs of improvement. Read on to learn more about the ongoing efforts and the community's resilience in the face of adversity.
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Gas Leak Crisis in Sivasagar: Ongoing Health Monitoring and Relief Efforts

Impact of the Gas Leak on Local Residents


Sivasagar, June 26: It has been two weeks since a gas leak was reported at Oil and Natural Gas Corporation’s (ONGC) well number 147 in Bhatiapar–Barichuk, leading to significant disruptions in the lives of numerous villagers. Many are grappling with health issues, displacement, and ongoing uncertainty.


To address the health concerns of over 1,200 displaced individuals, local authorities have commenced door-to-door health assessments in the affected regions as of Thursday.


Dr. Tanzim Ahmed, Sub-Divisional Medical Officer (SDMO) of Gaurisagar, stated, “Four teams will be conducting surveys to evaluate the health status of around 1,200 residents.”


He further mentioned that continuous medical assistance is being offered at relief camps. “We have established 24/7 health services at the Bongaon High School camp. Additionally, ONGC is providing daytime and evening medical care at the Bhatiyapar LP School, while our team manages night shifts,” Dr. Ahmed explained.


Approximately 120 to 130 individuals visit these camps daily. “As of June 24, we have treated nearly 1,400 patients. Fortunately, no severe health complications have been reported. The majority of cases involve mild symptoms such as fever, cough, back pain, and diarrhea,” he added.


In the meantime, ONGC continues its efforts to manage the leak at well number 147. On Wednesday, the corporation announced a significant achievement—the successful extraction of 42 tubing stands from the rig.


A 200-tonne boom crane, along with a 40-tonne crane, was utilized to clear the derrick, marking a crucial step towards removing the rig base and initiating capping procedures.


“Following the removal of the rig base, the next step will involve dismantling the existing Blowout Preventer (BOP) and installing a capping stack. A temporary increase in gas discharge is anticipated during this process. However, ONGC assures that the gas is non-toxic and the discharge volume has significantly decreased, posing no threat to residents beyond a 500-metre radius,” a statement released on Wednesday evening indicated.


Relief efforts are also in progress. As of Wednesday, food supplies have been distributed to around 750 residents within the 500-metre impact zone.


“Initially, about 2,100 individuals were affected. As the leak gradually diminishes, our assistance is now concentrated on those still in the immediate danger area,” stated Prashanta Das, Principal of Bongaon Higher Secondary School, who is coordinating the relief efforts.


Das also highlighted that the fear of accidental ignition has greatly affected daily activities. “Residents are refraining from using LPG cylinders due to safety worries,” he remarked.


Despite the ongoing difficulties, there are signs of progress. Gas concentration levels have consistently decreased from an initial 2,800 parts per million (ppm) to approximately 1,400 ppm, according to Das.


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