Speaking on the Lolazor podcast, Mirzamakhmudov explained the current status of the Boysun gas field, where a leak containing high levels of hydrogen sulfide began on September 1st. Despite several attempts, the situation is yet to be fully controlled.
Current Efforts to Contain the Leak
Mirzamakhmudov emphasized that the gas field remains open, with foreign specialists actively working on containing the leak. He highlighted that Uzbekistan has experienced six major industrial accidents of this nature, all of which took between three and six months to fully mitigate.
"The pressure in the well is extremely high, and the initial incident fractured the structure. While a temporary plug was installed, the gas, which contains high levels of hydrogen sulfide, managed to escape again through the damaged areas," the minister explained.
Currently, international experts from renowned companies like Cudd Well Control, Halliburton, Schlumberger, and Azerbaijan's SOCAR are on-site, assisting in the containment efforts. The safety protocols in place allow specialists to work in short intervals of 30 minutes due to the dangerous conditions. Specialized masks and oxygen tanks are required, with teams rotating to ensure continuous work.
"In the coming days, a new device will be installed in an attempt to seal the well completely. If this method proves successful, the situation will be resolved quickly. However, if it fails, we will proceed with an alternative plan, which involves drilling a relief well alongside the original one. This could take an additional two to three months," Mirzamakhmudov added.
Addressing Public Concerns
During the podcast, economist Otabek Bakirov raised concerns about the lack of communication and assistance provided to Boysun residents, suggesting that the public outrage was due more to insufficient information and inadequate support than the natural disaster itself.
In response, Minister Mirzamakhmudov clarified the situation, stating that emergency services, medical brigades, and technical teams had been mobilized promptly after the incident was reported on September 1. Local residents were swiftly evacuated from the nearby village of Kofrun, and the necessary resources were provided, including three daily meals and proper shelter for the evacuees.
"There were reports that people were transported in dump trucks, which is simply not true. Everything was organized as per protocol. We personally inspected the facilities, and all necessary conditions were met," the minister said. He added that monitoring systems were in place, with sensors installed around the perimeter of the gas field and in nearby residential areas to track gas levels.
