Explosion at Pertamina gas well

A gas well operated by state oil and gas firm Pertamina in Merbau Peninjauan village, Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU) regency in South Sumatra exploded on Wednesday.

The blast, allegedly resulted from natural activities, was immediately tackled.

"It occurred when rain fell which coincided with gas release to the air," Pertamina Sumatra region spokesperson Anggadewi told reporters on Wednesday.

She said when the gas gathered and was released a lightning struck. The phenomenon sparked a blast and fire in the oil well.

The fire subsided as the gas that came out of the well gradually phased out, she added. (bernard)