Assam Baghjan Oil Well Fire

On June 9, 2020, a massive fire engulfed the Baghjan oil well of Assam. The well of the Oil India Limited had blown out on May 27, 2020 and has been leaking gas for the past 14 days.

Highlights

• The accident is causing huge damages and is leaking gas. 
• The smoke from the site could be seen from 10 km of radius. 
• The Indian Air Force has been helping in firefighting operations. 
• The Indian Army has also reached the place and is in operation.
• The National Disaster Response Force team was deployed since the time of gas leak.

Environmental Impacts

• The incident is depositing gas condensate in the Maguri Beel Wet Land. 
• This is affecting the flora and fauna of the region. 
• Carcasses of endangered Gangetic dolphins and aquatic life are seen floating in the Dibru-Saikhowa National park. 
• The paddy fields, wetlands and ponds have also been contaminated and the threats are increasing.
• Around 6,000 people living around the natural gas producing well have been evacuated. 
• Rs 30,000 has been announced for these affected families. 
• The tea growers in the region also have complained layers of gas condensates in tea garden.