Gas leak from ONGC pipeline near Kuthalam in Mayiladuthurai district triggers protest

A minor gas leak from an ONGC pipeline at Sethurabalapuram village near Kuthalam triggered a road blockade by local residents on Saturday morning. The protest was later withdrawn following assurances from officials and temporary repairs carried out by ONGC personnel.

The leak was first noticed around 7.30 a.m. when villagers observed bubbles emerging in nearby farm fields. ONGC technicians began inspecting the area and checked seven interconnected pipelines to locate the exact source of leak.

Meanwhile, residents from Thoppu Theru and Keela Colony attempted to block the Mayiladuthurai–Kumbakonam State Highway (SH-64) near the ONGC Gas Collecting Station (GCS) at Sethurabalapuram.

Kuthalam Inspector of Police R. Mahendran negotiated with the protesters and during the discussions, villagers reiterated long-standing demands, including the provision of piped drinking water to every household, a community hall, and improved road infrastructure in their locality.

ONGC sources said a team was despatched to the site to inspect and address the issue. The source of gas leak in the pipeline was identified and sealed.

Published - May 31, 2025 06:25 pm IST