Sivasagar/New Delhi: Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) said on Monday it has made critical progress in its ongoing effort to cap well RDS#147A in Assam’s Rudrasagar field, despite persistent rainfall and rising floodwaters. With gas pressure showing a steady decline, the company has now begun final preparations for the capping operation.
ONGC confirmed that an extra-long boom crane, required for removing tubing stacked in the rig derrick, arrived at the site from Guwahati on Monday evening. “Its arrival marks a crucial step forward in clearing the rig from the well for the final capping operation,” the company said.
Heavy and continuous rain created a slushy work environment, but ONGC’s Regional Crisis Management Team, supported by international well control experts from Cudd Pressure Control, continued uninterrupted operations to remove the remaining equipment.
The flow rate of gas from the well has dropped noticeably, according to ONGC, a development the company called an “important and hopeful sign” that could enable a safer and more controlled capping of the well.
Over the weekend, teams achieved substantial rig clearance. ONGC said that about 10 trailer loads of rig material had been removed by June 22. The elevated section of the mast was inspected in preparation for tubing removal. Work to remove tubulars from the well began on June 21, and the mobilisation of cranes for this operation has been ongoing since then.
The expert team from Cudd Pressure Control, which arrived at the site on June 20, conducted a full assessment and reviewed all actions taken so far. ONGC said the team expressed agreement with the control strategy and its execution, reaffirming the effectiveness of the approach being followed.
Based on a jointly developed forward plan, extensive site preparations have been carried out, including levelling, shielding of nearby wells, and ensuring alternate access routes for personnel and equipment.
ONGC said air quality continues to be monitored, with no detectable trace of hydrocarbons beyond 30 metres from the well site. Residents living beyond a 500-metre radius have been advised it is safe to return home and resume normal activities, including cooking and use of electricity.
Real-time monitoring of gas concentration (LEL levels) is being conducted continuously using on-site detectors. Meanwhile, water blanketing is being maintained around the clock, and flood-level monitoring of the nearby Dikhow River remains ongoing.
In coordination with the district administration, ONGC continues to provide 24/7 medical assistance at relief camps for those affected by the incident.
Reaffirming its commitment, ONGC said on Monday: “With each milestone, the team moves closer to securing the well, backed by expertise, dedication, and the support of the local administration and community.”
