Geothermal resources of Pakistan and methods for early stage exploration

Abstract

Methods for early stage geothermal exploration are reviewed and their advantages and disadvantages with regards to known conditions in Pakistan are discussed. Methods discussed include geologic mapping, geothermometry and general geochemical characteristics, thermal methods, resistivity methods and structural methods such as magnetics and gravity. The main areas of geothermal activity are discussed and presented, including the Himalayan collision zone, the Indus basin margin zone and the Chaghi area in Baluchistan. Suggestions are made on exploration procedures in near future, including a systematic approach in collection of a detailed inventory of all surface manifestations in the country and geochemical sampling and analysis of fluids. Special suggestions are made for the different areas. Finally, the importance of selecting a feasible target area for exploitation of the geothermal resources, in order to prove the benefits of geothermal energy to the local population and decision makers are stressed.