Guwahati, June 24: The Pollution Control Board, Assam (PCBA) has issued a show-cause notice to Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) for operating a drilling rig at Bhatiapar-Barichuk in Sivasagar district without required environmental clearances—while a gas blowout at the site drags into its 13th consecutive day.
Dated June 17, the notice gives ONGC 15 days to respond, warning of fines and legal action for non-compliance. According to PCBA officials, ONGC has violated key environmental laws, including the Water Act (1974), Air Act (1981), and the Hazardous Waste Management Rules (2016).
Inspectors found uncontrolled gas emissions at oil well No. 147, located in the Rudrasagar oilfield. PCBA stated ONGC lacked both Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) for the site—despite prior directives reminding the corporation to secure necessary clearances.
The board cited a 2019 National Green Tribunal (NGT) order that authorizes it to impose Environmental Compensation Fines (ECF) in such cases. Officials raised alarm over the environmental and public health risks posed by the ongoing leak.
In a statement, ONGC said it continues to make measured progress in controlling the leak at well RDS#147A, working with international experts despite heavy rain and difficult terrain. A 200-ton crane with an 80-metre boom has been successfully installed and is now aiding capping operations.
The company reported that rising Dikhow River water levels forced a relocation of pump systems to higher ground to maintain safety. ONGC teams are conducting round-the-clock water blanketing as a safety measure.
A gas analysis on June 24 confirmed that the leaking discharge is 97% methane, which ONGC claims poses no immediate threat to nearby communities. The company reiterated its commitment to safety, and environmental compliance, and continued coordination with local authorities to resolve the crisis.
