Guwahati, June 20, 2025: Nearly eight days after a blowout at ONGC’s RDS 147A well in the Rudrasagar field, Sivasagar district, authorities are intensifying efforts to plug the gas leak.
The incident began on June 12 during maintenance operations, triggering a hazardous gas discharge that led to the evacuation of nearly 350 families to relief camps. Initial containment efforts included “junk shot” operations - injecting materials like shredded rubber - and maintaining a water blanket to avert fire risks.
Today, Odisha-based ONGC supplemented its strategy. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared via X that approximately 50% of groundwork, including site preparation and equipment mobilisation, is complete. He also confirmed the arrival this evening of a team of U.S. specialist well-control experts, who will support a safer, full-scale capping operation beginning June 21.
The Centre and Assam governments are overseeing operations around the clock, with District Commissioner Ayush Garg and Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri actively monitoring progress. Union Minister Puri reiterated that the emitted gas is 97% methane and non-toxic, and affirmed that air quality remains within safe limits.
Moving forward, ONGC plans to shift from preparatory “junk shots” to a “dynamic kill” strategy, aimed at fully shutting the well.
Despite the leak, no casualties have been reported. However, the situation has significantly affected local life - schools remain closed and students and families have been displaced. In response, the Assam government has provided ₹25,000 relief per affected family from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
