ONGC gas leak sparks fire in Andhra Pradesh, evacuations underway
Amalapuram (The Uttam Hindu): A major accident was averted in Andhra Pradesh's Konaseema district on Monday, but it spread panic throughout the area. A massive fire broke out after a massive gas leak in an ONGC pipeline near Irusmanda village in the Malikipuram division of the district. The fire was so severe that the surrounding sky was covered in black smoke and the flames engulfed hundreds of coconut trees.
Pipeline bursts with explosion, causing panic
According to locals, a loud explosion occurred at the time of the incident, followed by a gas leak from the pipeline and a fire. The explosion caused panic throughout the area. Villagers immediately informed ONGC officials and the administration. The intensity of the fire can be gauged from the fact that hundreds of nearby coconut trees were reduced to ashes. Upon receiving the information, ONGC technical teams and employees arrived at the scene.
The accident occurred during repairs, and the village is being evacuated
According to reports, technical repairs were underway at the ONGC well at the time of the accident. It is reported that a private company had begun work on the gas reserves there about 10 days earlier, when the accident occurred. Taking immediate action for safety reasons, the administration has begun evacuating the villages surrounding the site. Announcements are being made via loudspeakers urging people to move to safer locations and exercise caution.
CM Naidu gave strict instructions
Taking cognizance of this serious incident, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has reviewed the situation with officials. He has issued strict instructions to the administration to expedite relief and rescue operations. The Chief Minister has clearly stated that the safety of local people is the top priority and that those affected should be immediately evacuated to safety.
Thankfully, there were no casualties
It is a matter of relief that despite the massive fire and gas leak, there have been no reports of casualties or injuries so far. Fire and gas teams from the fire department and ONGC are working on a war footing to completely control the fire and stop the leak.