Assam Gas Leak: ONGC to Rely on U.S. Expert to Plug Well Leak

• Assam CM announces Rs25,000 one-time relief to families displaced by gas leak
• Leak from ONGC's Rig No. 147(A) and Well No. 135 in Rudrasagar affects 1,500 people
• ONGC to bring U.S. expert to plug leak; CM to discuss compensation with Centre

In the wake of the continuing gas leak from ONGC’s Rig No. 147(A) and Well No. 135, in the Rudrasagar oil field, Barichuk, Bhatiapar, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced ₹25,000 of one-time financial assistance to each affected family. This relief will be paid out of the CM’s Relief Fund for families that were forced to vacate their homes.

The leak, which has been occurring since June 12, has impacted approximately 1,500 people, with about 350 families moved to relief camps. ONGC has made ongoing efforts to stop the leak, but it continues. The CM noted that ONGC has worked hard, including plans to bring on an expert from the United States to stop the leak.

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The Chief Minister explained the ₹25,000 assistance is immediate relief and not compensation of any kind. He assured that he would take up long-term compensation with ONGC and at a meeting with Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri which has been set for Tuesday evening.

The Chief Minister reflected on his concern for the affected residents and said the state government would work closely with ONGC to provide a quick solution to the crisis and appropriate sectoral support for permanent relocation for affected families.