How Did ONGC Manage to Successfully Cap the Gas Blowout in Assam’s Sivasagar?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable feat, ONGC has successfully capped a blowout at its well in Assam's Sivasagar district. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri praised the team’s unwavering efforts and effective crisis management strategies. Discover how meticulous planning and expert coordination led to this swift resolution, ensuring safety for nearby residents.
Key Takeaways
- ONGC successfully capped a blowout at well RDS#147A in Assam.
- Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri praised the crisis management efforts.
- The operation was executed without injuries or casualties.
- International specialists were involved in the capping process.
- Air quality remains safe for residents returning home.
New Delhi/Guwahati, June 27 (NationPress) The state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) has effectively managed to seal a blowout at one of its wells located in Assam's Sivasagar district, as announced by Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri.
In a post shared on X, Puri stated, “ONGC has successfully capped the blowout of well RDS#147A at 1115 hours today. The blowout, which began on June 12, has been managed successfully in record time using the best practices available.”
He commended the Crisis Management Team of ONGC and international well control experts for their diligent efforts in safely concluding the gas well blowout without any injuries, casualties, or fire incidents, underscoring the organization's crisis management capabilities.
Puri also extended his gratitude to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and state officials for their unwavering support to the teams on the ground.
An ONGC representative indicated that during servicing operations on June 12 at Well No. RDS-147A in the Rudrasagar field, significant gas emissions were detected.
ONGC officials expressed optimism about capping the gas blowout by Friday, and indeed, they successfully accomplished this task. Reports indicated that ONGC, in close collaboration with international specialists from CUDD Pressure Control, achieved a significant milestone in operations at Well RDS-147A on Thursday.
The team effectively cleared remaining rig materials, including staircases, tangled wires, and other structural elements. This crucial action led to the safe removal of the rig substructure, allowing clear access to the wellhead and paving the way for the critical snubbing operation, an integral part of the final well control process.
Preparations for deploying snub lines and other essential activities were made on Thursday, which involved the careful removal of the existing Blowout Preventer (BOP) and the installation of a replacement unit as part of the capping strategy, according to officials.
In a meticulously planned operation, ONGC successfully connected hydraulic lines to the existing BOP, enabling pressurization and operational control of the rams. The success of this operation, which occurred without any noticeable increase in gas discharge, strongly validates ONGC’s technical assessments and strategic foresight. The operation proceeded as expected, showcasing comprehensive planning, accurate pressure analysis, and disciplined execution that have been the hallmark of ONGC’s well control efforts.
Favorable weather conditions on Thursday further enhanced the team's productivity, allowing them to maximize efficiency during the dry weather window.
Additionally, positive changes in the Dikhow River have been noted, with a receding trend that lessens the immediate risk of flooding and aids site accessibility and logistics.
The organization has maintained continuous air quality monitoring in the vicinity. “Encouragingly, no detectable traces of hydrocarbons have been found beyond 30 meters from the well. Current assessments have confirmed that residents living beyond a 500-meter radius from the incident site can safely return to their homes to resume normal activities, including cooking and electricity use,” ONGC reported earlier this week.
Over 330 families from nearby villages were evacuated following the gas blowout and are currently receiving basic relief and safety measures at a camp established in nearby Bangaon.
Point of View
The successful capping of the gas blowout by ONGC in Assam stands as a testament to the organization’s expertise and commitment to safety. The collaboration with international well control specialists reflects a proactive approach to crisis management, ensuring that the interests of the residents and the environment are prioritized. This incident underscores the importance of preparedness and technical proficiency in the oil and gas sector.
NationPress
27/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the gas blowout at ONGC’s well?
The gas blowout at ONGC’s well RDS-147A was observed during servicing operations on June 12, leading to significant gas emissions.
How did ONGC manage to cap the blowout?
ONGC successfully capped the blowout through meticulous planning, expert coordination, and the involvement of international well control specialists.
What measures were taken to ensure safety during the operation?
The operation was conducted without any injuries or casualties, showcasing effective crisis management and adherence to safety protocols.
What is the current status of air quality near the site?
Air quality monitoring has shown no detectable traces of hydrocarbons beyond 30 meters from the well, ensuring safety for residents.
What support is being provided to evacuated families?
Over 330 evacuated families are receiving basic relief and safety measures at a camp set up in nearby Bangaon.
