The use of dynamite blasts in the exploration activity of the ONGC has caused damage to dozens of houses belonging to the indigenous community in west Tripura. As a result, local residents have prevented the movement of heavy machinery of the ONGC and are demanding compensation for the damage.
The latest flashpoint is Belbari, located in Khumulwng, which serves as the administrative headquarters of the Tripura tribal autonomous district council, 13 km east of Agartala. Cracks in their households sparked anger among the local population towards the ONGC’s exploration work.
Similar situations have occurred in different parts of the State in 2021, 2023, and 2024. Reports said a total of 32 households in Belbari have developed cracks of varying extents due to the dynamite blasts.
The ONGC has been conducting a scientific survey in the area to explore possible gas reserves. A tribal autonomous district council official stated on Friday (February 14, 2025) that the damaged structures belong to 27 families.
The affected people are demanding monetary compensation, but the ONGC has not yet agreed to their demands. Angry local residents have filed a complaint with the district administration.
The Block Development Officer of the Jirania administrative block and officers from the tribal autonomous council have inspected the site.
