Ongoing Natural Gas Leak Crisis in Sivasagar: ONGC's Efforts and Discoveries

Crisis Management at ONGC

Sivasagar, June 15: The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is facing challenges in managing a natural gas leak from Rig No. 147 at Bhatiapar-Barichuk, four days into the incident. Despite employing various technological solutions, the crisis management team has yet to successfully contain the leak.

Efforts to seal the leak have been ongoing for three days without success.

As part of their strategy, authorities are gearing up for a 'junk shot operation,' which involves injecting materials like shredded rubber and golf balls into the well to obstruct the gas flow.

Amidst this crisis, ONGC's team made a remarkable discovery of what is believed to be the largest natural gas reservoir ever identified in Assam.

Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi reported that Shri Hari, the head of the ONGC Crisis Management Team, revealed an astonishing volume of natural gas was found in the reservoir, which triggered the pressure-related leak. This single source could potentially meet Assam's gas requirements for the next 25 years.

Gogoi also mentioned that Assam now boasts two significant gas reserves: one located in Lakwa (Kuwar Gaon) and the newly discovered site in Bhatiapar-Barichuk.

Shri Hari described this find as a 'geological surprise,' indicating that the natural gas reservoir could serve as a crucial asset for the state.

Despite ongoing efforts, all attempts to control the leak have proven ineffective.

Gogoi stated, 'I had an in-depth conversation with Shri Hari. Although the team tried to halt the leak yesterday, it was unsuccessful. However, they collected valuable data from this setback and have since upgraded their equipment. By tomorrow, they will be able to provide an estimate on how long it may take to completely stop the leak,' adding that no technical faults have been detected.

In response to the situation, Gogoi has directed Asset Support Manager Manoj Bhajani and Group General Manager Jayanta Mukhupadhya to provide media updates twice daily regarding the developments.

Since the leak began on June 12, approximately 70 families from surrounding areas have been relocated to a relief camp in Bhati Bongaon as a precaution against a potential explosion.

The camp is stocked with essential supplies, including food, drinking water, and medical assistance. A police team has been assigned to maintain security, and an ambulance with medical staff is on standby at the site to address emergencies.