ONGC’s gas blowout in Assam's Sivasagar enters day 3, relief measures underway, 1200 evacuated

A major gas blowout at ONGC’s Rudrasagar oil field continues unabated for the third day today at Well No. RDS‑147 (Rig SKP‑135) in Bhatia Para, Sivasagar. The leak began during routine servicing operations at around 11:45 AM on June 12 and remains uncontrolled.

 

Despite deployment of ONGC’s crisis‑management teams and emergency protocols, efforts to cap the well have made little progress. Authorities confirm no fire or casualties have occurred, but the persistent hissing and strong petroleum odour continue to affect nearby communities. 

 

More than 1,200 residents—approximately 137 households—have been evacuated within a 1 km radius of the site, relocated to a relief camp in Bongaon/Bhatia Para. Support services including cooked meals, drinking water, medical care, and security are being provided, although evacuees have raised concerns about insufficient basic amenities. 

 

Sivasagar district administrator Ayush Garg stated, “Technical teams from ONGC, SDRF, NDRF and local emergency services are collaborating to secure the well and restore normalcy.” He urged residents to stay clear of the affected zone and follow official instructions. 

 

ONGC has indicated that a “well‑killing” operation using specialized fluids is in progress, with next-stage efforts expected at dawn. However, the company has not provided a precise timeline for containment or further action.

 

Locals, recalling the 2020 Baghjan disaster, have expressed growing frustration, particularly over delays in restoring living conditions at the relief camp. District officials have offered a three-day window for conditions to normalize, warning they will take further measures if no progress is made.