Guwahati, June 16: A gas leak that began on June 12 at ONGC’s Rudrasagar oil field in Assam’s Sivasagar district remains uncontrolled after five days, forcing 47 families to flee their homes and take shelter in a makeshift relief camp.
The leak occurred at Well No. RDS-147 during routine servicing at 11:45 AM triggered an emergency response from ONGC’s Crisis Management Team. Although no fire has broken out and no injuries have been reported, the situation has caused widespread panic in the Bhotiapar area due to a constant loud hissing sound and reported breathing problems among residents.
According to ONGC, safety protocols were immediately activated, the site was secured, and access was restricted to essential personnel. Vikram Saxena, Director (Technical and Field Services), is currently on-site supervising containment efforts. Technical teams have been mobilized, and outside help — including assistance from Oil India Limited (OIL) — is being sought.
However, local anger is mounting, with residents complaining of a lack of information and communication from ONGC. Visiting the site on Monday, Assam Congress president and MP Gaurav Gogoi criticized the company’s handling of the crisis.
“There’s been no progress in five days. People are panicking. Children and wage labourers are the worst affected. Many are showing symptoms of respiratory distress,” Gogoi said. “ONGC hasn’t even explained to residents what’s happening. They’re in the dark.”
Gogoi also met with ONGC’s security team and confirmed that the company is preparing to engage external experts to stop the leak. “But they aren’t being transparent. I told ONGC to take full responsibility, ensure people’s safety, and pay compensation for the losses,” he added.
He further warned that the presence of the Dikhow River nearby has prevented a worse disaster, implying the situation could have spiralled had environmental conditions been less favourable. “People need answers and assurances — not silence,” Gogoi said.
As containment efforts continue, the affected families remain in limbo, highlighting the urgent need for better communication, quicker response, and accountability from the oil major.
