Gas Leak at ONGC Well Sparks Fire in Andhra Pradesh

A gas leak at an Oil and Natural Gas Corporation well in Andhra Pradesh's Dr. BR Ambedkar Konaseema district ignited a fire on Monday, prompting the evacuation of nearby villages but resulting in no reported deaths or injuries.

The incident occurred at the Mori5 well in Malkipuram mandal, operated by Deep Industries Ltd., ONGC's production enhancement contractor. According to an ONGC official, the leak happened during workover operations aimed at boosting production. A large volume of gas mixed with crude oil gushed out, spreading rapidly and forming a thick white cloud over surrounding paddy fields and palm trees. The gas soon ignited, creating a towering inferno that scorched several trees and billowed thick smoke across the agricultural area.

Residents of Irusumanda and Lakkavaram villages, located within a four-kilometer radius, were evacuated as a precaution after locals reported the gas smell entering homes. Some accounts mentioned a third village also affected, though officials confirmed at least two. The well site, in a remote area with no habitation within 600 meters, was quickly cordoned off. Around 10 fire tenders responded to battle the flames, while police and...