The internal inquiry group of GAIL, headed by the executive director (operations & maintenance), will undertake thorough checks of the various pipeline systems across the country and submit a detailed report within a fortnight. The company will also engage an international consultant for an intensive audit of its pipeline safety systems and other hydrocarbon installations, as a precautionary measure.
On Sunday, the toll due to Friday's blast, apparently caused by a leak in the pipeline, rose to 19. The company also initiated implementation of relief measures for the affected families and villagers.
More From This Section
GAIL will also bear the medical expenses of the injured.
It has set up GAIL help desks at Apollo Hospital and Trust Hospital at Kakinada, KIMS Hospital at Amalapuram and Balbolini Hospital at Rajahmundry where the injured are being treated.
GAIL said it would adopt the entire village to convert it into a model one. GAIL said two senior officials, in-charge of the regional operations and maintenance of the pipeline network, have been suspended.