Sivasagar/New Delhi: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) has begun preparations for the next phase of well control at its gas-leaking well RDS#147A in Assam’s Rudrasagar field, the company said on Friday. The gas leak has persisted since June 12, prompting a multi-pronged response by domestic and international experts.
In an official update, ONGC said that the expert team from the International Well Control Agency arrived at the site on June 20 and has begun its preliminary assessment of the situation.
As part of the current control strategy, ONGC is carrying out high-pressure water pumping at the site in the range of 3000 to 3500 PSI, with a high discharge rate of 19 to 20 barrels per minute. The company reported that approximately 2,200 barrels of water had been pumped on Friday, including one intermittent junk shot. According to ONGC, this forms a key component of its ongoing efforts to safely manage the gas discharge.
To support the upcoming stages of well control, ONGC said site levelling activities are in full swing. An alternate road ramp has also been constructed to ensure uninterrupted and safe movement of equipment and personnel.
“Shielding of other wells within the cluster has also been completed as a precautionary measure to ensure safety during the upcoming stages of well control,” the company said.
ONGC stated that the composition of the gas being discharged has been tested and is within safe limits. “This offers additional assurance regarding the controlled nature of the current discharge,” it said.
The company also noted that the water level in the nearby Dikhow River is being closely monitored. Pumps have been strategically placed along the riverbank to ensure a continuous water supply for operations at the well site.
“ONGC remains fully committed to ensuring public safety, environmental protection, and operational integrity through robust safety practices and expert collaboration,” the company said in its latest statement.
