Crisis Deepens at ONGC Site in Rudrasagar

An alarming situation is unfolding at the RDS 147(A) oil field in Rudrasagar, raising fears of a catastrophic incident reminiscent of the 2020 Baghjan blowout. The pressure from natural gas emissions is rapidly increasing, prompting serious concerns over the safety of the residents in Barichuk, Bhatiapar, and the ONGC personnel on-site.

The next 36 hours are being described as extremely critical, as experts warn that the oil field could ignite at any moment. With the ONGC crisis management team reportedly unable to control the situation, experts from the U.S. have been called in to contain the situation.

Following the failure of initial Plan A and Plan B protocols, authorities have now moved to implement Plan C. One of the key measures being undertaken is “capping,” a complex process advised by international experts to seal the leaking field.

As part of the containment efforts, ONGC has installed advanced water-lifting equipment in the nearby Dikhou River. However, heavy rains have caused the river's water level to rise rapidly, putting this equipment at risk of submersion, which would further jeopardise the control operations.

Simultaneously, ONGC has begun removing essential materials from the oil field and constructing a special access road to allow heavy vehicles to operate from below ground level, enabling faster and safer extraction and movement in case of an emergency.

Despite these efforts, experts caution that the threat of a fire or explosion remains high and that the crisis is unlikely to be fully resolved for at least the next three months. Locals are deeply worried, recalling the devastation of the Baghjan blowout, which displaced hundreds and caused widespread environmental damage.

With pressure mounting, the coming hours will be crucial in determining whether this unfolding emergency can be contained without major fallout.

Also Read: ONGC to Cap Sivasagar Gas Leak Using Plan C; US Experts to Assist: Assam CM