Guwahati, 20th October: A shocking act of vandalism at an Oil India Limited (OIL) well in the Duliajan region has resulted in an uncontrolled release of well fluids, primarily water, causing grave environmental and safety concerns. Miscreants allegedly targeted well no. NHK-67, situated at Gazal Basti near Duliajan, by dismantling the Christmas tree assembly above the adapter. This brazen act took place at approximately 9:30 pm on October 19, 2023.
Well no. NHK-67 had been in a shut-in condition since 2016 and was located within a depleted reservoir in the Bordubi area. The incident has elicited a swift and comprehensive response from Oil India Limited (OIL).
OIL has taken immediate steps to address the situation, including the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) with local law enforcement and alerting the District Administration Authority. Given the risks posed by the uncontrolled flow of well fluids, particularly water, OIL has initiated emergency measures to cap the well, control the flow, and restore normal operations.
To ensure a prompt and effective response, the Crisis Management Team (CMT) of Oil India Ltd. has been mobilized, and fire tenders have been deployed to the site. An on-site task force is closely coordinating efforts with local authorities to mitigate the situation.
In light of the emergency, OIL has issued instructions to its executives and employees, including those who had applied for leaves, to remain at their respective stations until further guidance is provided. The company’s swift and comprehensive response underscores its commitment to addressing the environmental and safety challenges posed by this act of vandalism.