What Caused a Gas Leak and Fire at ONGC Well in Andhra?
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Synopsis
A gas leak from an ONGC well in Andhra Pradesh ignited massive flames, causing panic and evacuations in nearby villages. Local officials are working to contain the incident as authorities ensure the safety of residents.
Key Takeaways
- Gas leak from ONGC well led to massive flames and panic.
- Evacuations initiated for residents within a five-kilometer radius.
- Safety measures include avoiding ignition sources.
- Emergency response teams are working to contain the situation.
- Significant environmental damage reported with tree loss.
Amaravati, Jan 5 (NationPress) - Enormous flames erupted from a gas leak at an Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) well located in Andhra Pradesh’s Ambedkar Konaseema district on Monday, leading to widespread panic and prompting authorities to evacuate residents from nearby villages.
The incident caused a wave of fear in Irusumanda and adjacent areas within Malikipuram Mandal due to a significant gas leak from the ONGC facility.
A sudden release of gas mixed with crude oil occurred while repair operations were being conducted with a workover rig after a temporary halt in production. The blowout discharged a considerable amount of gas and crude oil into the atmosphere.
According to local officials, the leaked gas ignited almost immediately, creating large flames at the site. Dense clouds of gas and smoke enveloped Irusumanda and surrounding regions, resembling a thick fog, as reported by the officials.
Authorities initiated evacuations for residents within a five-kilometer radius.
The raging flames rapidly spread, consuming nearby coconut trees, resulting in approximately 500 trees being burnt to the ground.
As a precautionary measure, announcements were made via loudspeakers, advising residents from three neighboring villages to refrain from using electricity, turning on appliances, or igniting stoves to avert further fires.
An emergency response team from ONGC, accompanied by senior officials, swiftly arrived at the scene after being notified by revenue officers. Measures were being taken to contain the gas leak.
Chaos ensued as residents fled their homes in fear, witnessing the towering flames and hearing loud explosions. Fire services, police, and other departmental officials rushed to the area.
The District Collector and Superintendent of Police were actively monitoring the unfolding situation.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu sought updates on the gas leak, engaging with ministers K. Atchannaidu and Vasamsetti Subhash, along with other officials.
The ministers informed the Chief Minister that they had already conferred with local authorities regarding the leak and had instructed them to enhance relief operations.
The Chief Minister urged officials to guarantee the safety of villagers and to evacuate them to secure locations. He also emphasized the urgency of controlling the leak.
Continual coordination with district officials and ONGC representatives was advised by the Chief Minister.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the urgency and seriousness of the gas leak incident in Andhra Pradesh. It underscores the need for immediate response and effective safety measures to protect the affected communities.
NationPress
06/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the gas leak at the ONGC well?
The gas leak occurred during repair works with a workover rig at the ONGC well, leading to a blowout that released gas mixed with crude oil.
How are officials responding to the situation?
Local officials and an ONGC emergency response team are on-site, evacuating residents and working to contain the gas leak.
What safety measures are being implemented?
Authorities have advised residents to avoid using electricity and other ignition sources to prevent further fires.
How far is the evacuation radius?
Residents within a five-kilometer radius of the incident are being evacuated for safety.
What impact has the fire had on the environment?
The fire has resulted in the destruction of approximately 500 coconut trees in the vicinity of the well.
