Gas leak under control, ONGC engaged with experts: Assam asset head Bhaskar Chowdhury

In response to the ongoing gas leakage since June 12 from Oil and Natural Gas Corporation’s (ONGC) rig sites 147(A) and 135 at Bhatiyapara in Sivasagar district, ONGC officials addressed a press conference at the temporary relief camp set up at Bongaon High School.

Addressing the media, Bhaskar Chowdhury, Executive Director of ONGC Assam Asset (Nettem), assured that efforts are underway to bring the situation under complete control.

“We are making every possible attempt to contain the gas leak. We are thankful for the cooperation extended by the district administration,” Chowdhury said.
“The situation is currently under control, although we cannot confirm exactly when the leakage will be completely stopped.”

He emphasized that ONGC’s firefighting team is working diligently, and they are following advice from both national and international experts.

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“Experts have suggested continuous cooling of the leakage site using water, and we are implementing this recommendation with utmost urgency,” he added.

Chowdhury further clarified that all technical aspects of the BOP (Blowout Preventer) were functioning properly and rubbished rumours about the relocation of ONGC’s operations from Sivasagar.

He said, “There is no truth to the reports that ONGC is relocating its office from Sivasagar. In fact, ONGC has been continuously contributing to the development of the area where oil extraction takes place.”

Regarding S.K. Petro, a private contractor allegedly involved in the incident, ONGC confirmed that it has already initiated an internal investigation.

“We have learned from this incident and will work to prevent such occurrences in the future. Action will be taken against S.K. Petro based on the findings of the investigation report,” said Chowdhury.

He also informed that S.K. Petro currently has six active rigs operating in Sivasagar.