Excavation by external agency damaged gas pipeline before Muzaffarpur explosion: Indian Oil

New Delhi: An underground Indian Oil gas pipeline at Gobarsahi in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, was damaged during mechanical excavation by an external agency building a drain, the company said on Monday. The damage led to a gas leak and an explosion. In its statement, Indian Oil said it was not involved in the construction or excavation work.

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The pipeline is part of the company’s city gas distribution (CGD) network, which supplies piped natural gas (PNG). The company said it “deeply regrets the unfortunate incident” and offered its sympathies to those affected. “The Company expresses its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured,” the statement said.

Indian Oil described its account of the cause as preliminary. “Preliminary information indicates that the underground Medium Density Polyethylene (MDPE) gas pipeline was damaged during mechanical excavation by external agency executing the drain construction work, resulting in gas leakage and a subsequent explosion,” it said.

Emergency teams mobilised

The company said its emergency response and technical teams were mobilised as soon as it received information about the incident. They worked in coordination with the local police, the district administration and the fire services. “Necessary measures are being undertaken to secure the affected pipeline section, ensure public safety and facilitate safe restoration,” the statement said. Indian Oil added that it was extending full technical support and cooperation to the authorities.

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Call for coordination before digging

The company used the statement to reiterate the rules for work near its network. Excavation near underground gas pipelines “must be undertaken only after prior coordination with the concerned utility owner and strict adherence to prescribed safety protocols,” it said. Public safety and the integrity of critical infrastructure remain its highest priorities, Indian Oil said.

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