Reports have spread on social media about a gas leak in the Moynoq district of the Republic of Karakalpakstan. The Ministry of Energy has issued an official statement regarding the situation.
It was noted that today, on July 26, during drilling operations at the "Moynoq" field located in the "Uchsoy" rural area of the Moynoq district, gas was observed escaping from Well No. 1 at a depth of 4,707 meters, which was targeted for 5,000 meters. This well is considered the first to be drilled at this field.
According to the Ministry, since the gas pressure was higher than expected, work is underway to seal the well and eliminate the pressure while adhering to all safety regulations. From the moment the incident occurred, all relevant organizations—including the Central Military Control Detachment of Uzbekistan's Militarized Unit for Preventing and Eliminating Open Oil and Gas Fountains, under the leadership of the Chairman of the Board of "Uzbekneftegaz" JSC, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, "Uzbekgeofizika" JSC, and local authorities—have been present at the scene.
"Most importantly, this well is located far from residential areas, and the gas is considered pure methane without hydrogen sulfide. It should be noted that natural gas extracted from all fields in the Ustyurt region does not contain hydrogen sulfide," the statement says.
The Ministry of Energy also noted that, to protect the health of the workers currently engaged in resolving the situation, as well as to prevent harm to the environment and wildlife, the gas is being burned under controlled conditions.
"No one has been injured. Therefore, we ask people not to panic. Additional information about the situation will be provided," the report states.
