Oil Pipeline Bursts: A fresh crude oil leak from the same pipeline point in Tingkhong within hours has alarmed residents, damaged farmlands and intensified allegations of negligence against Oil India Limited.
The Dibrugarh oil pipeline burst once again on Tuesday morning in Assam’s Tingkhong area, reigniting panic among villagers who were still reeling from a leak reported late the previous night. The pipeline reportedly ruptured for the second time at Shalmari Dighalia around 10 am, with crude oil forcefully gushing out and spreading rapidly across nearby land.
Locals said the sudden pressure release and overpowering smell of crude oil created a tense situation, prompting residents to rush out of their homes amid fears of fire hazards and health risks. Many villagers described the scene as terrifying, noting that the anxiety from the first incident had barely subsided when the pipeline began leaking again.
Angry residents accused Oil India Limited (OIL) of negligence, alleging that the repair work carried out after the initial leak was only a temporary measure. According to villagers, OIL officials managed to stop the leakage during the night, but the same point failed again within hours. After nearly an hour of efforts, company workers reportedly brought the situation under control for the second time.
The repeated Dibrugarh oil pipeline burst has caused extensive environmental damage in the area. Crude oil spread across agricultural fields and fish-rearing ponds, leaving crops soaked in sludge and ponds coated with a thick oily layer. Farmers expressed deep concern over long-term soil damage and the loss of livelihood caused by the contamination.
Residents also complained of a strong, suffocating stench lingering across the locality, making it difficult for families to remain indoors. Children and elderly residents reportedly experienced discomfort due to the polluted air, further fuelling public anger over what they described as ageing and unsafe oil infrastructure.
Villagers have demanded immediate compensation for affected families and called for permanent solutions to prevent recurring leaks. They urged authorities to replace old pipelines or ensure safer underground installations instead of relying on short-term repairs. Locals warned that unless decisive action is taken, repeated pipeline failures will continue to threaten lives, land and livelihoods in Dibrugarh.
The incident has once again raised serious concerns over safety standards, environmental protection and corporate accountability in one of Assam’s key oil-producing regions.
