Assam: Massive fire at ONGC's Barhola station claims lives of two

A devastating fire broke out at the Group Gathering Station (GGS) of the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation of India (ONGC) in Barhola, Titabar, leading to the tragic deaths of two employees and widespread panic in the surrounding Shildubi area.

Rahul Dutta, an engineer with the production wing, was charred to death at the site as the fire rapidly engulfed the facility. Another employee, who had sustained severe burn injuries, succumbed to his wounds while undergoing treatment at the Jorhat Medical College and Hospital, despite efforts to save him.

The fire, which erupted under as-yet unclear circumstances, has left residents of the nearby Shildubi area in panic, fearing further incidents or hazards. Authorities have cordoned off the area and initiated an investigation into the cause of the fire.

The ONGC production wing, a key part of the region's oil and gas operations, has suspended activities at the site until further notice. The incident has raised questions about safety protocols and emergency preparedness at the facility.

Further updates are awaited as local authorities and ONGC officials work to ascertain the cause of the fire and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.