Villagers allege signs of leakage had persisted for months, while ONGC says the affected pipeline has been isolated and the situation brought under control
Nazira: A reported gas leak from an underground Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) pipeline in Assam’s Nazira subdivision has raised alarm among residents, who fear the incident could pose a major safety threat if not addressed promptly.
The leak was reported at Dithaipukhuri Silakuti Bhakat Gaon in Sivasagar district, where pipelines carrying crude oil and natural gas pass through agricultural land. Residents claimed gas had been escaping from the pipeline for several days, while some alleged that signs of leakage had been visible for nearly three months.
The incident has disrupted farming activities, with several cultivators saying they are reluctant to operate tractors and other machinery near the affected area due to fears of an accident.
Responding to the incident, ONGC officials said the damaged section of the pipeline was immediately isolated and gas supply from the source had been shut off.
“Only residual gas trapped inside the pipeline is escaping. Repair work will begin once the remaining gas dissipates,” officials said, adding that normalcy is expected to be restored soon.
The company also acknowledged concerns regarding the ageing pipeline and said a proposal for its replacement has already been submitted for approval. Compensation for any losses suffered by residents is also under consideration.
However, villagers accused the authorities of failing to act despite repeated concerns and demanded a thorough inspection, stronger monitoring mechanisms and immediate measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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