Assam: Massive gas leak triggers panic after explosion at ONGC-linked oil rig in Sivasagar

A massive explosion rocked Bhatiyapara in Assam’s Sivasagar district after a blast occurred at Rig No. 147, operating under the Rudrasagar oil field of the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC).

According to initial reports, the rig — reportedly managed by SK Petrochemical — experienced a sudden explosion on Wednesday, resulting in the high-pressure release of natural gas. The loud hissing noise from the leakage was reportedly audible from a distance of up to four kilometers, triggering widespread panic among residents of nearby villages.

Terrified villagers were seen evacuating their homes and rushing toward safer areas, fearing further escalation of the situation. The incident site, particularly the Bari Chowk area of Bhatiyapara, has been gripped by tension and anxiety.

Emergency response teams, including multiple firefighting units from different locations, were swiftly deployed to the site to contain the situation and prevent any secondary hazards.

Authorities are yet to issue an official statement regarding the cause of the explosion or any casualties. An investigation is expected to be launched once the site is secured.