Flood-Hit Nazira Residents Question ONGC's Relief Response

NAZIRA, July 28, 2026 — The devastating floods that swept through the Sivasagar-Nazira region have left thousands homeless, triggering a humanitarian crisis and prompting allegations that the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) failed to provide adequate assistance to affected communities.

Triggered by the sudden rise in the Dikhow River, the floods submerged large parts of the region, destroying homes, crops and livelihoods while also causing the loss of human and animal lives.

In the aftermath of the disaster, flood-affected residents have questioned ONGC's response, alleging that the public sector undertaking did not extend adequate relief despite its extensive presence in the region.

During natural disasters, large public sector organisations operating in vulnerable areas are generally expected to support affected communities as part of their corporate social responsibility. ONGC has a significant operational presence in Nazira, where its Assam Asset headquarters is also located.

Residents from several flood-hit areas alleged that, during the worst phase of the disaster, many families struggled without adequate food, safe drinking water, medical assistance and proper shelter, while ONGC's relief efforts remained largely invisible.

According to local residents, volunteers, youths and daily wage labourers risked their lives using small boats and makeshift rafts to rescue stranded families, while they saw little direct intervention from the company. They said they had expected a quicker and more visible response from an organisation with substantial resources and infrastructure in the area.

Questions have also been raised over the response of the government and district administration. However, much of the public criticism has centred on ONGC because of its longstanding presence in Nazira. Residents argued that timely rescue operations, medical assistance and relief distribution could have eased the suffering of many affected families. Some also alleged that inadequate coordination between government agencies and corporate entities compounded the crisis.

The floods have exposed the vulnerability of the Sivasagar-Nazira region to extreme weather events while also reviving debate over disaster preparedness and corporate responsibility. The allegations against ONGC reflect the frustration of many flood victims who say they expected greater support during one of the region's worst flood disasters.

Attempts to obtain ONGC's response were unsuccessful at the time of publication, adn will update the story with the company's version if it is received.