ONGC calls in US experts to control Assam gas blowout

The well, operated by SK Petro Services on behalf of ONGC, has been leaking gas uncontrollably since June 12—now for nine consecutive days.

350 families evacuated as emergency escalates

The situation has forced the evacuation of nearly 350 families, who remain housed in relief camps as authorities work to contain the crisis.

The arrival of the US experts marks a major escalation in the emergency response, underscoring the complexity of the situation after ONGC’s own efforts failed to contain the leak.

Earlier containment attempts unsuccessful

Multiple interventions by ONGC’s crisis team — including several "Junk Shot" operations — failed to stop the gas discharge.

The American specialists, renowned for their expertise in handling some of the world’s toughest well control emergencies, are likely to bolster ONGC's ongoing efforts to contain the massive blowout.

US team begins assessment and prepares to act

“The international expert team was briefed comprehensively about all developments and containment efforts attempted so far. They have now conducted a firsthand assessment of the blowout site and will commence their specialised intervention operations from Saturday morning,” a senior ONGC official said.

The US team held detailed consultations with ONGC officials before proceeding to the site, where their evaluation will determine the advanced well-killing methods required to cap the leak.

Safety measures and air quality monitoring in place

ONGC has continued stringent safety protocols at the site, including continuous water blanketing operations to mitigate fire risks.

Around-the-clock air quality monitoring has also been deployed to track gas and particulate levels.

“Our monitoring systems confirm that particulate matter levels and gas concentrations in the vicinity remain within acceptable safety parameters. Air quality around the well site is being monitored continuously and is found to be within safe limits at 50-100 metres distance from the well mouth. The gas pressure has also fallen from 2600 psi to 500 psi,” the ONGC official added.

Risk mitigation and operational readiness

The company has been preparing the site for advanced interventions by removing non-essential equipment and developing an alternate access route to facilitate safer movement of personnel and machinery.

Environmental and humanitarian concerns mount

The prolonged blowout has raised concerns over environmental risks and the wellbeing of displaced residents. The Sivasagar district administration is working in tandem with ONGC to support affected families.

“We are providing all necessary assistance to the affected families and maintaining close coordination with ONGC's emergency response team. The priority remains ensuring public safety while supporting the well control operations,” said Sivasagar Deputy Commissioner Ayush Garg on Friday.

The Rudrasagar oil field is a key production asset for ONGC in Assam, but operations across the facility have been temporarily suspended as containment efforts continue.