WHY IS INDIA DRILLING A 6-KM DEEP HOLE IN MAHARASHTRA?

BACKGROUND

• Location: Karad, Maharashtra
• Institute: Borehole Geophysics Research Laboratory (BGRL)
• Objective: Scientific deep-drilling to study reservoir-triggered earthquakes in the Koyna-Warna region

PURPOSE OF SCIENTIFIC DEEP DRILLING

• Predicting Earthquakes: Difficult to predict minor earthquakes inside tectonic plates
• Understanding Earthquakes: Studying minor and major earthquakes, especially in densely populated areas

SCIENTIFIC DEEP DRILLING EXPLAINED

• Definition: Drilling boreholes to analyze deeper parts of the earth’s crust
• Goals: Study earthquakes, earth’s history, rock types, energy resources, and more

PROJECT DETAILS

• Initiative: Drilling the earth’s crust to a depth of 6 km
• Pilot Borehole: 3-km-deep completed; aim to reach 6 km
• Region: Koyna-Warna, experiencing frequent earthquakes since 1962

BENEFITS OF DEEP DRILLING

• In Situ Observations: Direct experiments and monitoring of fault lines and seismic behavior
• Data Collection: Accurate knowledge of earth’s crust composition, structure, and processes
• Technological Innovation: Advances in seismology and development of drilling tools

CHALLENGES OF DEEP DRILLING

• Complexity: High-pressure, hot, and dark environment hindering operations
• Technical Issues: Debris removal, rock properties, and equipment maintenance at great depths
• Human Resources: Need for skilled personnel for continuous engagement

DRILLING TECHNIQUE

• Methods: Hybrid of mud rotary drilling and air hammering
• Process: Rotary drilling with a steel rod and diamond drill bit; cooling with drilling mud; air hammering for deeper sections

FINDINGS

• Geological Discoveries: Deccan trap lava flows and granitic basement rocks
• Subsurface Data: Physical and mechanical properties of rocks, temperature, stress regimes, and fracture orientations
• Hydraulic Fracturing: Stress regimes measurement

FUTURE PLANS

• Further Drilling: Plans to reach 6 km depth; designing equipment for high temperatures
• Research Opportunities: Over 20 research groups studying Koyna samples; international interest in core samples

CONCLUSION

• Significance: Establishing a firm footing in scientific deep-drilling for India
• Impact: Informing future experiments and expanding academic knowledge in various fields