The Assam government has announced an immediate financial relief of ₹25,000 per family for over 350 households affected by a blowout at an ONGC crude oil well in the Rudrasagar oil field of Sivasagar district. The incident, which began on June 12, has led to continuous gas leakage, prompting urgent intervention from both state and central authorities.
🛢️ Crisis at ONGC’s Barichuk Well No. RDS 147
The blowout occurred during a perforation operation at an old, non-producing well operated by SK Petro Services on behalf of ONGC. The uncontrolled gas discharge has continued for six days, forcing the relocation of affected families to temporary relief camps.
🗣️ CM Himanta Biswa Sarma: “Immediate Relief, More Aid If Needed”
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who visited the site on June 16, assured residents that the ₹25,000 aid would be disbursed from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
“There are about 350 families in the camp and they are anxious. Compensation will be worked out later. For now, we are providing immediate relief,” he said.
🤝 Centre-State Coordination and Global Expertise
Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri held a high-level meeting in Delhi to assess the situation. ONGC has reportedly invited a U.S.-based specialist to help contain the leak, while the Assam Pollution Control Board continues to monitor air quality, which remains within safe limits.
⚠️ Local Protests and Accountability Demands
Members of the regional group Bir Lachit Sena staged a protest outside SK Petro Services’ office, demanding compensation and accountability.
“ONGC will pay its dues, but the private firm must also take responsibility,” said leader Srinkhal Chaliha.
The state government has indicated that additional financial assistance may be provided based on the evolving situation.
