Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has stated that ONGC plans to bring in an expert from the United States to address the gas leak at Rig Well Number 135, situated in the Rudrasagar oil field at Barichuk, Bhatiapar, in Sivasagar district. The leak, which began on June 12, has caused a continuous and high-pressure release of natural gas, creating panic in the region. Accompanied by loud noise and extreme heat, the leak has rendered the area uninhabitable, forcing over 350 families to evacuate their homes and take shelter in temporary relief camps.
Taking the situation seriously, the Chief Minister visited the affected site on Monday to assess the ground realities and interacted directly with displaced families. Later, during a press conference in Dibrugarh on Tuesday, he announced that each affected family would receive immediate financial aid of ₹25,000 from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
Since June 12, ONGC’s Rapid Crisis Management (RCM) team has been working continuously to control the leak from Well No. RDS-147A of Rig No. 135. However, despite efforts, the gas emission remains uncontrolled. CM Sarma stated that the decision to bring in an American expert was made after discussions between the Assam Chief Secretary and ONGC officials. He expressed hope that this move would lead to a breakthrough in containing the crisis.
“Our first priority is to shut down the leaking rig, and the second is to ensure adequate compensation through discussions with ONGC and the Union Ministry of Petroleum,” said the Chief Minister. He further added that the state government is fully committed to monitoring the situation closely and offering all necessary support to the affected population.
Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has also been briefed on the matter and is closely following ONGC’s ongoing efforts. CM Sarma said he would speak with the Union Minister in Guwahati to facilitate quicker resolution and proper compensation for those affected.
Meanwhile, environmental concerns are also mounting as the gas leak has led to both air and noise pollution in the surrounding areas. The Chief Minister has assured that all displaced families would receive continued support and that long-term rehabilitation and compensation plans are being developed in coordination with ONGC.
CM Sarma reiterated his commitment to revisiting Sivasagar if required and ensuring that both short-term and long-term relief measures are effectively implemented.