A gas leak from an Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) pipeline was reported on Monday morning in Silakuti Bhakat Gaon, a locality under Nazira in Sivasagar district, prompting immediate intervention from company officials. The incident, which quickly drew attention from local residents and authorities, saw ONGC teams rush to the site to assess and manage the situation.
Company representatives confirmed that the affected section of the pipeline has been successfully isolated, and the flow of gas from its source was promptly halted to prevent any further escalation. An ONGC official present at the site provided assurances, stating that while residual gas might continue to escape until the damaged section fully empties, the situation has been brought under control. He added that full repairs are anticipated to commence once the pipeline is completely clear of trapped gas, with operations expected to return to normal by evening.
However, the incident has inevitably brought to light underlying concerns regarding the age and structural integrity of existing energy infrastructure in the region. Officials acknowledged these concerns, revealing that a proposal for replacing the ageing pipeline responsible for the leak has already been submitted and is currently awaiting necessary approvals from competent authorities. The company also indicated that compensation for any losses incurred by local residents due to the incident is under active consideration.
This latest event in Sivasagar underscores the critical importance of timely upgrades and rigorous maintenance of vital energy infrastructure across Assam and the Northeast, not only to ensure operational safety but also to protect the environment and livelihoods of the communities residing nearby.
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