Guwahati, June 25: The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has achieved a key breakthrough in its well control operation at the RDS site, even as rising water levels in the Dikhow River complicate logistics and safety support systems. The public sector oil giant confirmed on Wednesday that it successfully removed critical rig components, moving closer to capping the leaking well.
Working in tandem, an extra-long boom crane and a 40-ton crane were deployed to remove 42 tubing stands from the derrick—clearing the path for the safe extraction of the rig base from the wellhead. This marks a crucial step ahead of dismantling the existing Blowout Preventer (BOP) and installing a capping stack.
In an official release, the ONGC has warned that the next stage may see a temporary increase in gas discharge during the switch between safety systems. However, the gas is non-toxic and significantly reduced in volume. The company assured that there is no danger to residents living beyond a 500-metre radius.
As part of its multi-layered safety strategy, ONGC continues water blanketing operations to suppress gas emissions. High-capacity pumps are being relocated to maintain uninterrupted support for these safety measures, especially in light of flood threats from the swelling Dikhow River.
Technical partner CUDD remains fully engaged in the operation, and both teams are working in a tightly coordinated manner to manage risks and ensure precision execution.
Meanwhile, the Pollution Control Board of Assam (PCBA) confirmed that air quality around the site remains within permissible limits. “Data shows all air quality parameters are within the standard range,” said a senior PCBA official. However, noise monitoring in the area revealed that sound levels have exceeded acceptable thresholds.
To support communities and personnel, ONGC has also collaborated with the Sivasagar district administration to run medical and relief camps in nearby areas.
Reaffirming its commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, ONGC stated it is working with full determination to bring the situation under control and bring the complex operation to a safe and successful conclusion.
