Indian Oil assures cooperation as fuel traces in well near Kannur Central jail trigger protest

Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has said it is working closely with the district administration, residents, and statutory agencies following media reports on the alleged presence of petroleum traces in domestic wells near a retail outlet operated on the Kannur Central Jail premises, even as public protests continue over the delay in remedial action.

In an official response to reports of fuel contamination, Indian Oil said it had taken note of the findings indicating the presence of hydrocarbons in certain wells in the vicinity of the outlet. Reiterating that public safety, environmental protection, and operational integrity are of paramount importance, the public sector oil major assured that appropriate action, if warranted, would be taken promptly based on verified findings, in accordance with statutory requirements and industry best practices.

The company also emphasised its ‘Nation First’ core value and said it was extending full cooperation to all agencies involved.

The statement came amid mounting public concern in Pallikunnu’s Jaiajawan Road area, where residents alleged that authorities had failed to act decisively nearly a month after contamination was first detected. Tests conducted by the Kerala State Pollution Control Board (PCB) found abnormally high levels of hydrocarbons in well water near the petrol pump, raising fears of serious health and environmental risks.

The issue surfaced after a complaint was filed on December 15 by C.H. Surendran, a resident, whose well water had become unusable. PCB officials inspected the site the following day and sent samples for laboratory analysis, which confirmed the presence of petrol and diesel. The PCB subsequently informed the District Collector and IOCL in writing.