American Experts Join ONGC to Tackle Assam Gas Leak Amidst Rising Communal Tensions

In a crucial operation to manage environmental hazards, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed that a team of American experts has arrived to assist in capping a gas leak at ONGC's RDS-147A well in Sivasagar district. The leak, which presents significant risks due to its proximity to a river embankment, will see containment efforts intensify on Saturday. Speaking at a press conference at Lok Sewa Bhawan in Guwahati, CM Sarma expressed concerns about the exacerbating potential of monsoon-induced flooding on the situation.

"The capping process is set to begin with substantial preparations already in place. We're focused on controlling the gas leakage that's dangerously close to a river", Sarma noted. He affirmed that both state and central governments are vigilantly monitoring the operation round the clock, emphasizing a pragmatic approach adopted by ONGC. Meanwhile, around 50% of necessary site and equipment preparation has been completed.

Addressing growing communal tensions, CM Sarma warned against attempts to disrupt harmony, particularly after Eid in areas like Dhubri, Lakhipur, and Hojai. He underscored the importance of enforcing the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, which bans consumption and sale of beef within 5 km of religious sites. Highlighting concerns over social media activity, he pointed out that a forensic audit revealed thousands of accounts, many foreign-operated, propagating sentiments that could incite unrest.

(With inputs from agencies.)