Has ONGC Made Significant Progress in Assam Gas Leak Control?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ONGC has reduced gas flow rates significantly.
- An expert team from CUDD Pressure Control is on-site.
- Safety measures include continuous air quality monitoring.
- Collaboration with local authorities is ongoing.
- Preparations for the next operational phase are underway.
New Delhi, June 21 (NationPress) The government-operated Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) announced on Saturday that it has achieved considerable progress in its well control operations in Assam, with a notable reduction in the gas flow rate, a vital advancement in its containment strategy.
An expert team from CUDD Pressure Control in the US has arrived at the site to conduct an initial assessment and evaluate the actions taken by ONGC thus far.
According to ONGC, "The experts have shown their agreement with the strategies and efforts implemented so far, confirming the efficacy of ONGC’s method in safely managing the well."
Preparations for the next phase of action are in full swing based on a jointly developed forward plan.
As per the corporation, the process of removing tubulars from the well has begun, and cranes are being mobilized for tubing removal from the rig floor.
Water blanketing remains a crucial safety measure, and flood level monitoring of the nearby Dikhow River is ongoing, ensuring that all operations comply with environmental and safety standards.
“ONGC is persistently monitoring the Low Explosive Limit (LEL) levels of air around the well site using real-time gas detectors to guarantee safety. Medical assistance is available at the relief camp for anyone in need,” the statement noted.
In light of the ongoing gas leak from ONGC rig sites in the Bhatiyapara locality of Sivasagar district, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma wrote to Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, urging him to instruct ONGC to escalate well control measures to prevent further complications.
Earlier this week, Puri reviewed the 'well control' activities being conducted by ONGC in Assam to address the gas leak.
ONGC remains dedicated to maintaining the highest safety standards and operational excellence, collaborating closely with international experts and local authorities to achieve complete control of the well as swiftly as possible.