ExxonMobil confirms gas pipeline leak in N. Aceh

Oil and gas producer ExxonMobil Oil Indonesia Inc (EMOI) confirmed Tuesday that a gas/condensate pipeline leak had identified between Cluster 3 and 4 at Arun Field area of operations in North Aceh.

The pipeline leak had been detected on January 20, 2003 in Mangkuli sub-district, North Aceh, EMOI?s spokeswoman Deva Rachman told Petromindo.Com.

EMOI said it had successfully handled the gas pipe leak.

?EMOI has notified local community leaders and appropriate authorities regarding this issue, and qualified company personnel are on-site to investigate and handle the situation,? Deva said.

Deva said EMOI had taken all necessary actions to ensure the safety of its employees, contractors, surrounding residents and operated facilities.

Earlier reports said that gas leak from the 12-inch pipe caused 27 villagers fainted and go queasy. They were immediately given medical treatment at EMOI Point A Clinic.

The reports said that after receiving information from villagers, EMOI quickly ordered its fire brigade and safety personnel to solve the problem. Prior to that, the company shutdown operations at Cluster 3 to avoid gas spreading. (*)