Q. What is the primary objective of Borehole Geophysics Research Laboratory (BGRL) scientific deep-drilling programme, recently seen in news?
Answer:
To understand reservoir-triggered earthquakes
Notes: The Borehole Geophysics Research Laboratory (BGRL) in Karad, Maharashtra, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, leads India’s deep-drilling programme. It aims to reach 6 km into the earth's crust to study reservoir-triggered earthquakes in Maharashtra's Koyna-Warna region, prone to seismic activity since the 1962 impoundment of the Koyna Dam. BGRL's pilot borehole in Koyna is at 3 km depth, with plans to deepen it. Using a hybrid drilling approach, BGRL conducts unique in situ experiments, monitors fault lines, and studies crustal composition. This effort advances seismology and technological innovation, vital for understanding geohazards and developing geo-resources.