Fifteen days after a gas leak began at Oil and Natural Gas Corporation’s (ONGC) well no. 147 in Bhatiapar–Barichuk, normal life remains deeply affected for hundreds of villagers. Displacement, health issues, and widespread uncertainty continue to plague the area.
To address health concerns among the displaced, the administration launched door-to-door medical surveys on Thursday. Over 1,200 residents are being monitored by four dedicated teams.
“Four teams will survey around 1,200 individuals to assess health conditions,” said Dr. Tanzim Ahmed, Sub-Divisional Medical Officer (SDMO) of Gaurisagar. He confirmed that round-the-clock medical care is available at the affected relief camps.
A 24/7 medical unit has been set up at Bongaon High School, while ONGC is operating daytime and evening clinics at Bhatiyapar LP School. Health personnel are also covering the night shifts, ensuring continuous support.
“Nearly 1,400 individuals have been treated so far, with daily patient footfall ranging from 120 to 130,” Dr. Ahmed reported. While no critical health conditions have emerged, common complaints include fever, cough, back pain, and diarrhoea.
Meanwhile, ONGC continues efforts to plug the leak. On Wednesday, it announced a crucial breakthrough—the successful removal of 42 tubing stands from the rig. This process involved a 200-tonne long boom crane supported by a 40-tonne crane, clearing the derrick to enable removal of the rig base and advance towards well capping.
The next phase includes dismantling the existing Blowout Preventer (BOP) and installing a capping stack. A temporary increase in gas discharge is anticipated, but ONGC has reassured the public that the gas is non-toxic, with discharge levels now much lower. The situation poses no risk beyond a 500-metre radius, according to their official statement issued on Wednesday evening.
Relief efforts are in full swing. As of Wednesday, food and essentials have been distributed to around 750 residents still living within the immediate impact zone.
“Initially, around 2,100 people were affected. With the gas leak now slowly subsiding, we are prioritizing support for those still at risk,” said Prashanta Das, Principal of Bongaon Higher Secondary School, who is coordinating the relief operations.
Despite signs of progress, fear remains high in the community. Many residents are avoiding the use of LPG cylinders, worried about the possibility of accidental ignition.
However, measurable improvements are evident. Gas concentration levels, initially recorded at 2,800 parts per point (pp), have now fallen to around 1,400 pp, providing some relief to those in the vicinity.
While full containment is yet to be achieved, ongoing efforts by ONGC and the administration are gradually stabilizing the situation. For now, the community continues to wait—cautiously hopeful for complete restoration and safety.
