ONGC takes operational control of Mori-5 well as flame intensity eases after gas leak

New Delhi: State-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) has assumed full operational control of Well Mori-5 at the Mori field following a gas leak that led to a sustained fire at the site in Andhra Pradesh, said a statement on Tuesday. Senior ONGC management, including Director (Technology & Field Services) Vikram Saxena, along with Crisis Management Team (CMT) experts, reached the site and took charge of operations to stabilise the situation.

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The well is located at Irusumanda village in Malkipuram mandal, where the incident had prompted the mobilisation of emergency response systems and coordination with local authorities.

Firewater systems deployed, blowout plan finalised

ONGC said excavation work has been completed to create a temporary canal from a nearby irrigation source, enabling the deployment of high-capacity firewater pumps at the wellsite. The fire pumps have already reached the location, with placement and installation activities currently underway.

The company added that a comprehensive blowout control plan has been finalised and is being executed as part of the response strategy. As a result of these measures, teams on the ground are observing a gradual reduction in flame intensity and size, with the flame also being redirected into a vertical orientation, indicating improved control over the situation.

Environmental monitoring within 600-metre radius

As part of its emergency response, ONGC said it is continuously monitoring air quality, noise levels and nearby water bodies within a 600-metre radius of the well to minimise environmental impact. The company reiterated that all actions are being carried out in line with safety protocols and environmental safeguards.

Coordination with authorities continues

ONGC said it remains in constant coordination with district and police administrations, local authorities and the media to ensure transparency and effective on-ground management of the incident. The company has emphasised that the response is being handled with the highest standards of safety and environmental care.

The Mori field incident comes days after ONGC had initially mobilised emergency response teams following reports of a gas leak at the well, as earlier reported, before stepping in to directly manage operations at the site.

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