ONGC Reports Significant Drop in Gas Pressure at Sivasagar Site

Gas Pressure Reduction at ONGC Sivasagar Well

Sivasagar, June 23: On Monday evening, the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) announced a significant decrease in gas pressure at its well site in Sivasagar, describing this development as promising.

The corporation stated that this reduction is a positive sign that could lead to a safer and more effective capping operation. They noted, “We have observed a noticeable drop in gas pressure, which is an encouraging indicator for a more controlled capping process.”

In their announcement, ONGC confirmed that essential equipment has arrived at the site to facilitate containment efforts.

“An extra-long boom crane, crucial for the safe removal of tubing from the rig derrick, has been transported from Guwahati to the well site this evening. This marks a significant advancement in clearing the rig for the final capping operation,” the statement elaborated.

Monday marked the twelfth day of ongoing containment efforts by the corporation and its crisis management teams, which have necessitated the evacuation of hundreds of local residents.

Earlier that day, senior leaders from the BJP, including Cabinet Minister Jogen Mohan, State BJP Vice-President Topon Kumar Gogoi, and Rajya Sabha MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, visited the site to evaluate the situation and engage with the affected community.

Minister Mohan informed the media, “ONGC specialists have indicated that the gas pressure has decreased by 50%, along with the noise levels. They are optimistic about controlling the situation within the next four to five days.”

He also mentioned that the district administration has been directed to cater to the needs of all impacted residents.

Topon Kumar Gogoi, who is also the Chairman of the Assam Industrial Development Corporation, stated that the central government would initiate several inquiries to ascertain the cause of the incident.

“The Government of India will conduct 2–3 inquiries. Various departments, including Labour and Petroleum, will submit reports to help identify the exact cause,” he explained to the press.

Lok Sabha MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa called for increased oversight of private rigs operating in the area.

“Private rigs must adhere to safety standards and protocols. ONGC should also ensure that safety measures are not compromised by private entities,” he emphasized.