A massive gas leak followed by fire continues at ONGC Mori 5 well near a village. Fear has gripped residents. Authorities evacuated people within one kilometre of the blowout site as emergency operations remain underway to prevent further harm and casualties.

The incident took place at the ONGC Mori-5 well in Irusumanda village, in Malikipuram mandal, in Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema district, in southern India's Andhra Pradesh, on January 5.

Visuals show that towering flames rising up to 50 metres lit up the night sky and consumed nearby palm trees. Thick smoke billowed from the site as the fire continued to rage, creating a dramatic and alarming scene. Fire officials are seen trying to extinguish the fire.

Speaking to Newslions, U V Srinivasu, Fireman, Amalapuram Fire Station, Andhra Pradesh, stated that no casualties or injuries were reported in the incident, according to preliminary information provided by an official from the Maharatna company.

Following the outbreak of fire at the Mori-5 well, senior ONGC officials from Rajahmundry immediately reached Mori village to assess the situation. According to the official, the fire was triggered by a gas pipeline leak at the well, which is operated by Deep Industries Ltd as part of production enhancement operations.

A major gas leak was reported in Irusumanda village of Malkipuram mandal. Local residents alerted ONGC authorities about the situation. ONGC personnel, along with fire and police teams, are actively working to bring the fire under control. Villagers are reportedly anxious and panicked, while authorities continue to manage the situation.

Officials from ONGC have arrived on-site to evaluate the cause of the incident and monitor ongoing firefighting efforts. The Konaseema district administration is coordinating with fire services and law enforcement to implement safety measures and prevent the fire from spreading.

Deep Industries Ltd, a Production Enhancement Contractor (PEC) for ONGC, had won a Rs 1,402-crore contract in 2024 for production enhancement work at ONGC’s Rajahmundry Asset in Andhra Pradesh. The company has been operating the Mori-5 well for approximately one year, according to officials.

Authorities are continuing their investigation while ensuring that safety protocols are strictly followed at the site.