Gazprom running for cover as claims of failing health increase...
Residents of Prorvinskiy village in Krasnodar Territory have been waiting for help since February, when a gas well burst near the village. Russia's Gazprom promised to clear the area of oil products and pay decent compensation to local people within two weeks, but little action has been taken.
The gas outbreak happened at a nearby gas well on February 17th. The whole village was covered by an oily deposit of an unknown nature. Saw dust and sand were scattered around, and houses were washed, but the problem is still there.
Gazprom officials insist nothing terrible has happened, because it is only light oil, however residents insist otherwise. Villagers have been complaining of high blood pressure, heart problems, and joint aches.
As much as R1,000 (about $35) has been paid to every person by Gazprom and R2,000 (about $70) - by the Krasnodar Territory administration. The damaged well has been closed, but there are 10 similar ones around the village.
According to one villager, "of course, we are afraid. Something could explode at any moment".
Residents are demanding the government and the company take further action by relocating the village away from the unsafe wells.
