Dhanbad, Dec 16 (UNI): Fifteen days after the toxic gas leak in Kenduadih, authorities on Tuesday began borehole drilling and preparations for nitrogen filling, raising hopes of relief among affected residents. The area had earlier been declared unsafe following the leakage of carbon monoxide gas, which claimed two lives and left several others ill, forcing families to shift to relief camps.
The borehole operation is being carried out by Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL) near Kenduadih police station under tight security by CISF. Expert teams from CMPDI, IIT-ISM, Panigrahi Mining Research and Consultancy (PMRC) and CIMFR are present on site.
Officials said the boreholes will help assess underground fire and gas accumulation, after which nitrogen gas will be injected to suppress combustion and control emissions. Putki Balihari Area General Manager J K Mehta said multiple boreholes may be drilled if required and confirmed that 14 kilolitres of nitrogen gas has already been arranged.
PMRC chief scientist Prof Nageshwar Sahay said gas levels have reduced slightly and samples will be collected after drilling to determine further action. IIT-ISM assistant professor Ankush said nitrogen filling has proven effective in similar situations.
Local councillor Krishna Raut termed the start of the process a victory for residents, claiming sustained public pressure forced authorities to act and ruled out any displacement plans.
