Lalitpur, Nepal - A fire erupted on Tuesday during a water boring operation in Tikathali, Mahalaxmi Municipality–5, raising safety concerns about the presence of underground methane gas in the Kathmandu Valley. The incident occurred at Shantideep Tole while boring was conducted under the initiative of the Tikathali Drinking Water and Consumer Committee to address water shortages in the area.
According to local authorities, the flames emerged from the boring pipe due to a gas leak during welding operations. The fire, which lasted for several hours, was eventually brought under control using water sprays, cooling materials, and coordinated efforts by locals and security personnel. No human or material damage was reported, but the area has been sealed for further investigation.
Kapil KC, Chairperson of Ward No. 5, confirmed that the fire ignited after drilling approximately 900 feet deep and was exacerbated when water was applied to extinguish it. “The flames were finally contained by noon, but the situation was challenging,” KC said. Relevant authorities, including the Department of Mines and Geology and the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), have been informed to conduct a detailed study.
Preliminary observations by the Department of Mines and Geology suggest the presence of methane gas, a highly flammable substance formed by the decomposition of organic materials underground. Monica Jha, Deputy Director-General and spokesperson for the department, stated, “Similar incidents have been reported in the Kathmandu Valley before. Methane gas, typically found around 300 feet below the surface, can escape during boring and ignite easily.”
A study conducted by the department in 1977 revealed the existence of approximately 300 cubic meters of methane gas beneath the Kathmandu Valley. However, efforts to harness this natural resource have been limited. Methane dispersed in water cannot be stored in conventional containers, but localized usage for industrial or community purposes, such as hospitals and factories, could be explored.
In a past experiment, methane gas found in Kupondole, Lalitpur, was successfully transported to Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital in Teku via a pipeline for testing. The Tikathali incident has reignited discussions about the potential utilization and management of underground methane gas to prevent such incidents in the future.
This event underscores the need for comprehensive geological studies and strategic planning to mitigate risks and explore sustainable energy opportunities in Nepal.
