Sat Jan 10 08:04:38 UTC 2026: ### Headline: ONGC Gas Well Fire in Andhra Pradesh Extinguished After Five Days

The Story:

A significant gas blowout at an ONGC-owned well in the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district of Andhra Pradesh has been successfully extinguished. The incident, which began on January 5, 2026, triggered a massive fireball near the villages of Mori and Irusumanda. After five days of intensive efforts, the ONGC Crisis Management Team managed to control the blaze by January 10, 2026. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported.

Key Points:

  • The gas well, Mori-5, is located in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district, Andhra Pradesh.
  • The blowout occurred on January 5, 2026, and the fire was extinguished on January 10, 2026.
  • The well was being operated by Deep Industries Ltd., an Ahmedabad-based Production Enhancement Contractor (PEC) for ONGC.
  • The fire reached heights of 20 meters and widths of 25 meters.
  • Capping and mudding operations are underway.
  • No injuries or deaths were reported.
  • Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu conducted an aerial survey of the impact.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident highlights the inherent risks associated with oil and gas exploration and production, particularly in densely populated areas.
  • The swift response by the ONGC Crisis Management Team was crucial in preventing a potential disaster.
  • The incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols and effective crisis management strategies for energy companies.
  • The fact that a Production Enhancement Contractor (PEC) was responsible for the work suggests the need for more stringent oversight of contracted operations.

Impact Analysis:

The incident at the ONGC gas well will likely lead to:
1. Increased Scrutiny: A thorough investigation into the cause of the blowout and the operational practices of both ONGC and Deep Industries Ltd. is expected.
2. Enhanced Safety Regulations: The government and regulatory bodies may revise safety standards and protocols for oil and gas operations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
3. Operational Changes: ONGC might reassess its reliance on external contractors and strengthen its internal oversight mechanisms.
4. Community Concerns: Residents in the Konaseema district may raise concerns about the environmental and safety risks associated with oil and gas exploration, potentially leading to increased public engagement and activism.

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