GAIL pipeline fire: AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu promises probe

They said the Union government would study measures implemented by oil and gas exploration companies worldwide. Mr Naidu and Mr Pradhan visited Kakinada and met the injured people who are being treated at the Apollo Hospital here.

Mr Naidu inquired about the accident. Both, Mr Naidu and Mr Pradhan assured the injured of the best treatment. They said action would be taken against the officials responsible and a high-level probe would be conducted. They announced an ex gratia amount of Rs 25 lakh for the deceased (and Rs 20 lakh from Gail, Rs 3 lakh from the Central government and Rs 2 lakh from the state government).

An ex gratia amount of Rs 5 lakh was announced for the injured who suffered a permanent handicap. Other injured persons will be paid Rs 50,000 each as compensation. Mr Pradhan added that the government would provide the best medical treatment for those injured due to the explosion and the expenses for the same will be borne by Gail.

The villagers said that though mishaps, minor gas or crude oil leaks as well as minor fires causing damage to crops and properties had been taking place at regular intervals in the KG Basin, the government had not bothered to ensure that the PSUs complied with safety norms. Nor was proper compensation given to the affected people. The villagers asked the CM to issue directions to shut down ONGC and Gail operations in the area.