It has been two weeks since a gas leak from ONGC’s Well No. 147 disrupted life in the Bhatiapar–Barichuk area, and the situation is yet to stabilize. Hundreds of affected residents continue to face uncertainty, health issues, and a complete halt to their regular routines.
The gas blowout, which occurred on June 12 at the Rudrasagar oil field, led to the immediate evacuation of nearby residents. Even now, around 750 people living within a 500-metre radius of the site depend on daily food supplies from relief camps. Some families, unable to return home, remain sheltered at the Bongaon relief camp.
“Initially, around 2,100 people were impacted. The number of those requiring daily support has now reduced, but the situation remains challenging,” shared Prashanta Das, Principal of Bongaon Higher Secondary School, who has been actively involved in coordinating local relief measures.
Residents are still gripped by the fear of fire hazards, prompting many to stop using LPG cylinders altogether. “People are extremely cautious—even simple cooking feels risky,” Das added.
While efforts to bring the situation under control continue, there’s a sign of gradual improvement. The gas concentration levels, which initially measured 2,800 parts per point (pp), have now dropped to 1,400 pp, according to Das. Thankfully, no serious health emergencies have occurred among those staying at the Bongaon shelter.
However, not all concerns have been eased. A health camp conducted on June 15 examined over 100 residents, revealing cases of fever, stomach infections, diarrhoea, and skin conditions, confirmed Dr. Tazim Ahmed, Medical Officer of Gaurisagar Block.
The Assam government has announced financial compensation of ₹25,000 per family, but for many, the priority remains access to essentials and a safe return to normal life.
Although the gas flow has started to decline, for the people of Bhatiapar–Barichuk, the path to recovery remains slow and uncertain.
