High-pressure blowout during drilling operations sends flames soaring in Konaseema; emergency teams rushed in

Amalapuram (Andhra Pradesh): Panic gripped parts of Andhra Pradesh’s Konaseema district on Tuesday after a major gas leak at an ONGC drilling site triggered a huge fire and explosion, sending towering flames and thick plumes of smoke into the sky.

According to preliminary information, the incident occurred during drilling operations being carried out by Deed Industries, when a high-pressure blowout led to an uncontrolled release of gas. The escaping gas caught fire almost instantly, resulting in a powerful explosion that was heard several kilometres away.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as flames engulfed the drill site, forcing workers and nearby residents to flee the area in fear. Local authorities immediately cordoned off the site and evacuated surrounding villages as a precautionary measure.

Fire and emergency services rushed to the spot and battled the blaze for several hours. Officials said specialised teams were deployed to control the well pressure and prevent the fire from spreading to nearby installations or residential areas.

While there were no immediate reports of fatalities, several workers are suspected to have suffered injuries and were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment. A detailed assessment of casualties and damage is still underway.

ONGC officials said the situation has been brought under control and that safety protocols are being strictly followed. An internal inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact cause of the blowout and whether any lapses occurred during drilling operations.

District administration officials assured residents that air quality and safety levels are being closely monitored and urged people to stay away from the affected zone until further notice.

The incident has once again raised serious concerns over industrial safety standards at oil and gas drilling sites, especially in densely populated regions like Konaseema.