HT Correspondent
SIVASAGAR, June 15: The deafening roar of an uncontrolled natural gas blowout from Well RDS 147 in Barichuk, Bhatiapar, just 8 km from Sivasagar town, continues to send waves of panic through the local population for the fourth consecutive day. Over 700 residents have been affected as efforts by a 20-member Crisis Management Team (CMT) to cap the well head remain unsuccessful.
The well, operated by SK Petrochemicals 135 VI, a private rig contractor for ONGC, suffered the blowout during a work-over operation earlier this week. ONGC officials on-site stated that efforts are underway to contain the gas flow and expressed hope of plugging the well soon, but admitted that no expert can give a definitive timeframe for full control.
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An ONGC officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that the team’s initial attempt to cap the well using the conventional Heavy Mud Injection method failed. The team is now employing the Junk Shot technique, a high-risk emergency measure that involves injecting shredded rubber, golf balls, and similar materials into the well to disrupt and stop the gas flow. Vikram Saxena, Director (Technical and Field Services), is personally monitoring the operation.
In a significant development, Sivasagar MLA and Raijor Dal leader Akhil Gogoi visited the site today. After speaking with ONGC’s CMT leader Sri Hari, Gogoi disclosed that the blowout may have inadvertently revealed a rich natural gas reservoir in the region.
Meanwhile, the Sivasagar district administration has shifted affected residents to Bogaon High School, where two medical camps are operational. Security forces have been deployed, and the Water Resources Department is assisting by lifting water from the Dikhow River to cool the well head and prevent ignition. Oil India Ltd has also sent logistical support to aid the operation.
Fears among villagers are growing, drawing comparisons to the Baghjan blowout of 2020. Dhan Chutia and his wife said they have been forced to leave their home after 4 p.m. daily due to the intense pressure and noise. “Our poultry and animals are suffering in the heat,” they said.
Anjumoni Phukan, wife of Dayananda Chutia, tearfully expressed her dread, saying, “I’m praying every minute that this doesn’t become another Baghjan.” Several residents also accused ONGC of indifference to their suffering and lack of basic support, especially amid the scorching heat.
Bir Lachit Sena leader Shrinkhal Chaliha has demanded compensation for affected families, including ₹1 crore to the family of a local resident who reportedly died during the crisis period.
As the situation remains tense, all eyes are on ONGC’s efforts to prevent a disaster and bring the well under control—before it’s too late.
