The technological emergency involving a gas explosion and leak at the "Mustaqillikning 25 Yilligi" (M25) gas field in the Boysun district of the Surxondaryo region will be resolved by the first half of 2027. This was announced by Abdugani Sanginov, the chairman of Uzbekneftegaz JSC, as reported by Uzdiplomat.
The company head noted that a partnership agreement has been signed with China’s CNPC to bring the emergency to an end. Chinese specialists have already arrived at the M25 field and begun their assessments.
"The necessary machinery will be brought to the M25 field in Boysun by the end of this year. Drilling operations for four additional relief wells will begin by the end of December 2026. The issue will be 100% contained by the first half of 2027," stated the Uzbekneftegaz chairman.
During his visit to Surxondaryo on February 27, 2026, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev addressed the situation at the Boysun field and assured that the leak would be stopped.
Background on the Boysun Crisis
The crisis began on September 1, 2024, when an explosion and subsequent fire broke out during drilling operations at well No. 604 of the M25 gas field. This triggered a severe leak of highly toxic hydrogen sulfide gas. Residents living near the field were immediately evacuated to safer areas.
Just over two weeks later, on September 17, another explosion rocked the field. The blast injured 11 people and claimed the lives of four oilfield workers on-site.
Subsequent explosions occurred on March 27 and May 5, 2025. Over the past nearly two years, a series of gas flare-ups and leaks have been recorded at the site. Local residents have frequently taken to social media to complain about the unbearable stench of gas, describing severe disruptions to daily life and escalating health issues.
Reports of another gas leak at the Boysun field surfaced later in November 2025. The Ministry of Energy clarified that a previously controlled gas flare at well No. 202 had temporarily gone out due to underlying geological processes.
Despite repeated assurances from ministries and state agencies that all necessary measures were being taken, the crisis remains unresolved to this day.
Stay up to date with all the latest news:
