Guwahati, June 26: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) is on the brink of completing the snubbing operation at the Bhatiapar gas blowout site in its Rudrasagar oil field, with final operations likely to conclude before sunset on Friday.
Now on its 14th day, the high-stakes blowout response at Well RDS#147A has reached a major milestone. ONGC, in coordination with international well control experts from CUDD Pressure Control, has cleared all remaining rig materials—including staircases, entangled wires, and structural components—at the site. This allowed for the safe removal of the rig substructure and provided full access to the wellhead.
“This critical breakthrough has paved the way for the upcoming snubbing operation, an essential part of the final well-capping process,” ONGC stated in a press release.
Preparations are now underway to deploy snub lines and replace the existing Blowout Preventer (BOP). In a precision-guided effort, ONGC successfully connected hydraulic lines to the current BOP, pressurising it and operating the rams—achieving this without any visible increase in gas discharge, a strong indication that the technical strategy is working as intended.
The operation unfolded exactly as planned, reflecting extensive pressure analysis and disciplined execution. Favourable weather conditions further boosted progress, enabling teams to maximise productivity throughout the day.
In another positive development, the receding water level of the Dikhow River has lowered the risk of flooding, improving site accessibility and logistical support.
ONGC reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out every phase of the operation with safety, technical rigor, and environmental responsibility.
