Ongoing Crisis in Sivasagar: Gas Leak at ONGC Rig Persists
Gas Leak Crisis in Sivasagar
Sivasagar, June 16: Five days have passed since a gas leak was first identified at the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation’s (ONGC) Rig No. 147(A) and Well No. 135 in Bhatiapar-Barichuk, yet the issue remains unresolved as technical teams continue to struggle with the emissions.
Despite ongoing efforts, ONGC has not succeeded in sealing the leak. The situation has escalated public frustration regarding ONGC’s perceived negligence in ensuring safety and accountability.
On Monday, members of the Asomiya Yuba Mancha organized a protest near the site, urging the state government to take immediate action.
Ridip Deka, a local youth organization leader, expressed, “ONGC has consistently neglected local safety. It has been five days without a solution, displacing hundreds. If Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma does not intervene, we will intensify our protests.”
The leak, which started on June 12, has led to the evacuation of approximately 70 families to a relief camp in Bhati Bongaon due to fears of a potential explosion.
In light of rising health concerns, emergency medical services were initiated, with health camps established starting June 13.
However, the deteriorating health conditions of those in the relief camp have alarmed both locals and medical professionals.
Dr. Tazim Ahmed, the Block Medical Officer of Gaurisagar, reported that 114 individuals were assessed at the government health camp on Sunday, with cases of fever, gastritis, diarrhea, and fungal infections noted. One patient suffering from diarrhea was referred to Joysagar Civil Hospital.
ONGC also set up a health camp, screening 268 individuals, which brought the total number of people receiving medical care to 382 in just one day.
Dr. Ahmed added, “ASHA workers were deployed to monitor health conditions door-to-door immediately after the leak.”
As the leak remains uncontained, pressure is mounting on ONGC and local authorities to take decisive action.
Residents are growing increasingly impatient as uncertainty and health risks continue to overshadow their community.