Sat Feb 15 08:03:51 UTC 2025: ## ONGC Dynamite Blasts Damage Homes in Tripura, Sparking Protests
**Agartala, Tripura, February 15, 2025** – Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) seismic surveys using dynamite blasts have caused damage to at least 32 homes belonging to indigenous communities in West Tripura, leading to protests and demands for compensation.
The most recent incident occurred in Belbari, near Agartala, where cracks appeared in numerous houses following the blasts. Residents have blocked the movement of ONGC machinery in response. A tribal autonomous district council official confirmed that 27 families have been affected. Similar incidents have been reported in the state in 2021, 2023, and 2024.
While the ONGC is conducting the surveys to explore potential gas reserves, affected residents are demanding financial compensation for the damage to their properties. The ONGC has yet to agree to their demands, prompting a complaint filed with the district administration. Local officials have inspected the damaged site. The situation remains tense as the community continues its protests against the ONGC’s activities.
First Piper 