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The rapid urbanization and industrialization are spurring a rising demand for building materials, base metals, and industrial minerals. This causes the need of increasing exploration activities of greenfield mineral deposit. While, in contrary mining industry in recent years discover fewer greenfield deposit, due to the high costs of traditional exploration (drilling and trenching) methods and low success rate in discovery of the mineable deposit. Whereas, the substantial growth in demand for mineral commodities increased the need for more new discoveries. To this end, innovations in exploration strategies are required. This paper attempts and overview of available techniques (drilling, geochemical and geophysical) for evaluation of mineral deposits, focusing on fundamental principles, and the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. The paper also presents a critical comparison of these exploration techniques, considering equipment cost, time required for data collection and interpretation and also the efficiency of deposit assessment of each method. The major advantages and disadvantages of the techniques presented is discussed in text and as well as tabulated. Finally, the future challenges in exploration are discussed and recommendations for alternative techniques is mooted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous Impulsive mine collapses induced by shallow partial mining in the Cambrian Abbottabad formation have caused fatalities, significant property loss and brought harmful results to the environment. Mining subsidence is therefore needed to be monitored on all accounts during mining operations in this area. Based on a long history of soapstone mining in Sherwan, a generic approach is presented in this paper for investigating subsidence related phenomena in the area. This paper demonstrates a time prevision for the future subsidence using an empirical modelling approach EMA. 20 underground drift and shaft mines located in the Sherwan North-West Abbottabad, Pakistan have been studied using EMA. Empirical modelling formula, validated by Distinct Element code UDEC has been used to predict the time of subsidence of these mines. This approach is a factor of width, height and depth of excavation of a mine and it can be applied to area where mines are truly restricted to one locality e.g. Sherwan. The calculated statistical data unconcealed the current state and predicts time for future subsidence of Khanda Khau, Bandi Nikra and Chellether mines within Sherwan. Mines other than these three localities are mostly safe and stable. The major causes of mine subsidence in the area includes both natural and man-made factors which are briefly described in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and reliable long term meteorological data is very difficult to be obtained in developing countries especially in hard and mountainous regions. This paper focuses to select the most suitable and reliable gridded datasets for the two most important meteorological parameters i.e., precipitation and temperature in a sparsely gauged transboundary Kabul River Basin (KRB) between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Novelty of this study is that gridded datasets were evaluated for precipitation and temperature based on monthly, seasonal and annual timescales against the available observed stations data on both sides of the KRB. Based on the literature studies, the five most frequently used datasets namely; National Centers for Environmental Prediction, Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (NCEP-CFSR), Asian Precipitation Highly Resolved Observational Data Integration towards Evaluation (APHRODITE v1101), Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCC), Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks-Climate Data Record (PERSIANN-CDR) and Climate Research Unit (CRU TS v4.02) with different spatial and temporal resolutions were selected and evaluated. Analyses were done using the four most widely used statistical indices i.e., Modified Index of Agreement (d), Pearson's Correlation m Coefficient (r), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), and Relative Bias (RB%). Results revealed that based on the statistical indices scores; APHRODITE (v1101) showed the best results followed by GPCC for precipitation while for temperature, CRU (TS v4.02) was found better compared to other datasets in the study basin. These findings can be used with confidence by the researchers for the future studies whose outcomes could be utilized by the water resource managers, planners and agriculturists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flooding is an unvarying devastating recurring event in Pakistan producing serious economic and social damages. Despite its recurring nature extensive research on flood hazards and its management specifically in the Baluchistan province of Pakistan has been delimited. The aim of the study was therefore to evaluate the role of flood management institutes and the preparedness of the community against flooding to reduce the vulnerability of flood prone areas of the Baluchistan province of Pakistan. For this purpose, primary data was collected from 100 families from the most flood affected district Jaffarabad, of province Baluchistan by adopting a random and non-probability sampling method. The primary data was collected through questioners and interviews of house heads of flood affected families, farmers, and professions of Flood management institutes (FMI). Several technical reports, policy documents, and research papers allied to flood management related studies were reviewed as secondary data. The data collected was analyzed statistically by t-test. Questionnaires were developed to cover the study variables related to community livelihood state, physical and socio-economic vulnerability, and available structural facilities of the study area. The data revealed significant (p < 0.05) increase in average income/day of the affected families from the year 2014 (PKR 180/day) to 2020 (PKR 320/day) after 2010 (PKR 170/day) with significant (p < 0.05) reduction in overall damage to household assets. Our analysis also showed 30% statistically a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in loss of agricultural land of Jaffarabad with significant less agricultural sector loss from 103.77 USD million to 36.51 USD million after successive flood events from 2010 to 2015. The results of physical vulnerability showed a significant reduction in displacement rate allied to overall significant reduction in drop of GDP growth and poverty rate. Significant (p < 0.05) improvement in the structural units from 20% (2010) to 52% (2015) in housing units and from 28% (2010) to 38% (2015) in the cultivation units represents the role of FMI in improving available infrastructure to mitigate flood hazards in this area. These findings underline the impact and successful outcomes of flood rectifying policies and implementation of FMI to reduce damage caused by the 2010 flood in Baluchistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan is blessed with large reserves of different types of dimension stones in all provinces. Dimension stone industry has great potential to become one of the leading industries in Pakistan economy. This potential is being held back by inefficient mining practices that affect the quality and economy of the dimension stone. This paper focused on the selection of the best feasible mining technique to get high recovery, minimum losses, and ultimately the generation of higher revenues. In this study conventional (pre-splitting), modern mechanized mining (diamond wire saw) and expansive powder techniques were used for extraction of black granite blocks in district Mansehra Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The analyses and comparison of these mining techniques were carried out based on extraction costs, quality, revenue and recovery. The diamond wire saw technique was noted much effective than expansion powder and pre-splitting techniques because it gives maximum recovery, revenue and minimum waste material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several models have been developed in past years to evaluate thermal maturity and calculate total organic content of source rocks using wireline log data. An attempt is made in this current paper to apply one of these models to assess the hydrocarbon and source potential of Jurassic age Datta shales in Chanda Deep-01 through wireline logs and PetroMod-1 software. The extensive Datta shale in Upper Indus Basin serves as potential source and reservoir for unconventional and conventional oil and gas reservoirs. It has good geochemical parameters, which makes it attractive for exploration. Well logs depict various properties of source rock which is treated as Total Organic Carbon (TOC) content. Passey et al. (1990) overlay "ΔlogR" technique has been adopted for TOC calculation in Datta shale. This method resulted in TOC ranging from 1.3-2.0 wt. %, which shows fair good source potential. The comparative similarities between the TOC calculated from logs and through the method of Geochemistry have been observed which validates our finding. Also, Datta shale is mature for hydrocarbons generation and fall in oil window based on VR data obtained by using PetroMod 1 software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study area comprises the Niksar Basin of Tokat district, located in the Middle Black Sea region, Turkey. The Kelkit River flows through the center of Niksar Valley. The lithological units exposed on the northern and southern parts of Kelkit River have disparate geological sequences; grouped as "Pontid" and "Anatolit" respectively. The micritic and biomicritic limestone of Upper Jurassic - Lower Cretaceous, limestone of Upper Cretaceous, and the detrital limestone of Upper Cretaceous - Lower Paleocene form characteristic karstic aquifers. In the valley, a thick sequence of loose gravel, sand, and clayey materials of Pliocene and Quaternary are deposited. The presence of clay lenses in these materials created suitable hydrodynamic conditions for the formation of confined and unconfined aquifers. The karstic aquifers recharged through precipitation and valley-fill aquifer through Kelkit River. These aquifers fulfill the water supply demands of the entire population of Niksar Town and surrounding villages. This paper summarizes hydrogeological research conducted on all basinal formations. The Karstic aquifers and the unconfined aquifer of valley-fill sediments were systematically analyzed. The physical characteristics of the aquifer formations, karstification, occurrence, and movement of groundwater, recharge, and discharge sources, and discharge hydrograph analysis were conducted. The exposed hydrogeological formations were recharged through precipitation by 0.329x109m3 and discharged by 0.317x109m3 during the study period. The karstic formations were recharged from precipitation by 45.0x106m3, while discharged from karstic springs by 47.88x106m3 of water. The discharge rate of major karstic spring ranges from 4.3 to 430 l/s and the discharge coefficient ranges from 0.004-0.026 day-1. The storage capacity of springs varies from 0.14-5.01x106m3 and the total discharged volume during the study period was 48.10x106m3. The groundwater budget of the valley-fill aquifer represents that during the study period recharged from different sources 0.266x109m3 and discharged 0.263x109m3 by all sources. The conceptual hydrogeological model of Niksar Valley simulates geological, hydroclimatic, hydrogeomorphologic, hydrostratigraphic, hydrogeological, and hydrologic field environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kirana, Rabwa and Chiniot areas of the Punjab province, Pakistan has a number of isolated hills jutting out of a flat alluvial plain. These rocks are Upper Proterozoic in age. The exposed volcano-sedimentary sequence is slightly metamorphosed (lower greenschist facies). The dolerites have also undergone auto metasomatic changes. The Kirana Hills are the main resource of aggregate in southern and middle Punjab. These aggregates are used in subbase, base course, in rail ballast, as riprap and for the cement and asphalt concrete. The main lithologies in Kirana Hills are dolerites and rhyolites, lithic greywackes, volcanogenic slates and quartz wackes. This paper deals only with the dolerites and their petrographic composition and engineering properties, as well as adhesion values. The variably auto metasomatized dolerites are now composed of variable amounts of plagioclase, chlorite, calcite and amphibole with quartz, magnetite, hydro mica, K-feldspar, epidote and sphene as subordinate to accessory minerals. Flakiness, Elongation, Specific Gravity, Water Absorption, Soundness, Los Angeles, Aggregate Crushing, Aggregate Impact and Adhesion Values are all within ASTM limits. Therefore, the dolerite aggregates of Kirana area have excellent Engineering Properties. They can also be used for subbase, base course and riprap material. However, quartzites, lithic greywackes, volcanogenic slates and rhyolites which can be used for these purposes are available in the area, therefore dolerites should not be used because they are the only good source of asphalt concrete and especially for the wearing course (since it gives a good road grip and resists polishing) in Punjab province with an area of 205344 km2. Dolerites should be reserved for cement and asphalt concrete. Petrographic studies show that dolerites do not have Alkali-Silica Reaction Potential and are hydrophobic and can be used for cement as well as asphalt concrete. This area has total estimated 3097.3 million tons of reserves of all types of aggregates. The aggregate resource map of this important area is being presented for publication for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On October 8th, 2005 a devastating earthquake in the Kashmir region has triggered widespread landslides, which were considered the second most important driver of devastation to the natural and manmade environment after the earthquake. Landslides susceptibility assessment is the prerequisite for the landslide management, however, considering the dynamic spatial-temporal distribution of co-seismic landslides, an updated landslide susceptibility assessment is of fundamental importance. This paper has evaluated the earthquake-induced landslides and developed an updated landslide susceptibility map. A detailed inventory of the co-seismic landslides is acquired from the SPOT-5 satellite image and field observations. The developed landslide inventory is subsequently cross analyzed with the ASTER based Digital Elevation Model (DEM) computed topographic parameters (curvature, slope angle, aspect, drainage pattern), geology, human activities and fault lines to investigate their influence on landsldies distribution. The derived correlations were statistically analyzed using a Weight-of-Evidence model to develop the landslide susceptibility map. The accuracy of the developed landslide susceptibility is 74 %. The acquired susceptibility map can be used by the relevant departments for the landslide's mitigation and risk reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper attempts to explore the impact of built environment on the potential of groundwater infiltration in district Peshawar, Pakistan. In the study area, rapid increase in population together with inevitable urban expansion over the fertile agricultural land has been recorded, since 1980. During past four decades, major land use land cover changes have been recorded in infrastructural and housing sectors. In this study, state of the art tools and techniques of Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographical Information System (GIS) have been used to spatio-temporally analyze the changes in built-up environment and its possible impacts on infiltration and groundwater recharge. In Peshawar, groundwater is the sole source of water supply with more than 1,400 public tube wells having a total discharge of 8 million gallons/hour (8.41m²/sec). Besides these, private tube wells, hand pumps and dug wells are also supplying fresh water to fulfil the citizen's requirements. During 1981 to 2017, the population growth has augmented the demand and requirements of fresh water, which multiple times increased from 56 million liters/day to over 213 million liters/day. During the same period, the area under the built-up environment has also increased from 3.70% of the total geographical area to 16.27% and reduced the infiltration rate by 4%. Such consistent increase in impermeable surfaces have depleted groundwater recharging rate from 108.75 millimeter/year (mm/y) in 1981 to 91.35 mm/y in 2014. In 2014, the abstraction of fresh water from ground sources was 105 mm/y, indicating high extraction and low recharging rate of groundwater from precipitation, resulting the depletion of groundwater sources and fluctuating the water table. The analysis at union council level revealed that falling of water table and drying up of tube wells have been observed and situation is quite alarming in the old city area. In some areas, the water table has been dropped down by more than 16 meters. Such consistent increase in the built-up environment and the resultant groundwater depletion need to be properly monitored so that its adverse impacts could be minimized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total organic carbon (TOC) present in source rocks can significantly affect the response of various wireline logs. This paper discusses the well logs anomalies caused by TOC in Chichali Formation of Cretaceous age. The open hole well logs (LLD, DT, RHOB, GR, Caliper and CNL) of Chanda-1 well of Kohat Basin, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) were utilized to determine the organic contents of Chichali Shales. The source rock was distinguished from non-source rock based on low density, high sonic transit time, high porosity and high resistivity. The ?logR technique yielded TOC values ranging between 0 to 1.38% for the formation which is in close agreement with the value obtained by geochemical analysis. This study reveals that TOC of a source rock, using well logs can provide a good estimate of its organic contents before going for detailed geochemical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durability and suitability of concrete aggregates are influenced by mineralogical composition. This paper therefore discuses the mineralogical composition of Jhelum river aggregates and identifies the deleterious components responsible of ASR expansion, when used in normal weight concrete. Accelerated Mortar Bar Test (ASTM C-1260) and petrographic analysis were performed to determine the durability aspects of river aggregate. Aggregate Suitability was assessed by aggregate quality tests i.e. specific gravity & absorption, Loss Angeles abrasion, sulfate soundness, shape test, fineness modulus and sand equivalent. On obtaining satisfactory results of coarse aggregate tests, concrete mix designs for class-A, class-B, class-C and class-D were devised by absolute volume method (ACI- 211.1). Projected UCS (Unconfined Compressive Strength) considered 4000Psi for A-type, 3000Psi for B-type, 2000Psi for C-type and 1500Psi for D- type concrete at the at 28days. Results of 24 casted cylinders show that achieved average UCS at the age of 28 days is, 4921 Psi, 3773 Psi, 2780 Psi and 2432Psi for A, B, C and D-type concrete respectively. Jhelum River Aggregate is found mechanically fit and suitable for normal weight concrete. There are about 40% samples which deviate from the suitability standard of Accelerated Mortar Bar Test. Mineralogical studies of Jhelum river aggregate revealed that most of the aggregate components (Sandstone, Quartz Arenite) are suitable for construction but some of these are highly susceptible to alkali silica reaction due to the presence of highly strained quartz. The studied river aggregate is economical while used with slag cement and additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the slope failure along the Karakorum Highway near Sim Elahi Jung Village, District Mansehra Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan by using numerical back analysis method. The slope face was ~80m high with a cut angle of 80 degree in quartz mica schist of Tanawal formation. The failure was triggered by 26th October 2015 earthquake of moment magnitude (Mw) of 7.5. The slope was investigated thoroughly for the geological conditions, slope geometry and the slid mass. During field studies, discontinuity surveys were conducted for onward assessment of the rock mass quality and orientation data for kinematic analyses. In view of rock mass quality determined from discontinuity surveys, back analyses were conducted considering slope material as Hoek-Brown material with the help of computer code Slide 6.0. The rock mass input parameters were adopted in the light of field and laboratory studies at the verge of failure. Back analysis conducted using estimated value of peak ground acceleration (PGA) have indicated that the geological strength index (GSI) value and the uniaxial compressive strength of the slope forming material were 24.0 and 29.0 MPa respectively at the time of failure. The analyzed slip surface and the observed ground slip surface were found consistent with each other, thus, confirming the validity of the model. The derived rock mass parameters are presented here for the evaluation of remaining slopes in the area having similar geological conditions and geometries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the greatest biological crisis which happened at the Permian-Triassic boundary (250 million years (My) ago) is best documented in the well-exposed rocks of the Salt Range and the adjacent Surghar and Khisor Ranges in northern Pakistan which has been intensively studied since the pioneer work of Waagen in 1895. In these ranges the Upper Permian to Middle Triassic is represented by mixed siliciclastic carbonate sediments, named (in ascending order) the Chhidru, Mianwali, and Tredian formations. The present studies have brought in new insights to stratigraphy, faunal turn-over dynamics and environmental conditions of the Permo-Triassic (PT) sequence exposed in western Salt Range continuing in the adjoining Surghar Range. The Permo-Triassic (PT) boundary is reportedly diachronous in the Salt and Surghar Ranges. The conodont fauna suggest that the PT boundary coincides with the disconformity at the Chhidru-Mianwali formations but the palynological assemblages from the upper-most Chhidru Formation have affinities with Permian as well as Griesbachian (basal Early Triassic). The Ammonite fauna from the Lower Triassic Mianwali Formation shows at least two episodes of radiation-extinction in the time interval from the Griesbachian to the early Spathian: within just three-to-four million years' time span. The palynological and the carbon isotope analysis of the Upper Chhidru-Mianwali-Lower Tredian sequence suggest series of reduced humidity events which coincides with positive shifts in global carbon isotopes record. The particulate organic matter record of the Mianwali Formation does not support the prolonged 'Early Triassic marine anoxia' but suggests rather oxygenated environmental conditions. In summary, the diversification patterns and environmental changes after the end-Permian extinction event are much more complex than previously thought, which are being highlighted in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a comprehensive petrophysical investigation of the Cretaceous Lower Goru Formation in six wells of Sawan Gas Field was made. For this purpose, the clay volume, types of porosities, qualitative permeability, hydrocarbon and water saturation, movable hydrocarbon index, bulk volume of water, and dominant lithology were assessed. On the basis of these petrophysical parameters, two hydrocarbons bearing zones were identified in studied reservoir. The zone-01 having considerable thickness with good reservoir characteristics in all wells with estimated gas in place of 223124813.6 cf while zone-02 has good reservoir characteristics only in Sawan-07 and-08 wells with estimated gas in place of 53471927.4 cf. The proposed stratigraphic model of reservoir levels showed the pinching of pay zones towards NE of the field. This pinching of the pay zones towards NE can be attributed to the lateral facies changes triggered by sea level fluctuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractal is an applicable implement for evaluation of the complicated patterns of natural features. Geoinformatics allow not only representing data, but also performing geostatistical analysis and building models. This paper investigates the deformation pattern of land surfaces applying Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer Global Digital Elevation Model (ASTER GDEM) through a combined geo-information and fractal approach. The covering divider method is applied in order to extract fractal dimension of the earth surface (Dsurf) directly for estimating surface roughness of the earth topography surf through geographic information system (GIS) approaches. Specifying the function of the geomorphologic processes on the spatial variability of fractal properties of the earth surface is accessible through this assessment. Fractal dimension mapping us to ascertain geomorphic domains where variability of fractal dimension of the earth surface represents the roughness of the land form topography and is an assessment of texture of topography. Results show that the presented approach in this research using the presented flow chart provides a rapid and facile procedure to evaluate the spatial distribution of the earth surface deformation within geological regions. Relatively higher fractal dimensions are observed where loose alluvial deposits and irregularities exists whilst the lower fractal dimension represents existence of the competent formations. The results showed that the Kharmankuh anticline has formed in a NE-SW direction and shows nearly symmetrical deformation pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seismic Hazard assessment is essential component for seismic risk analysis, mitigation and emergency management. Researches assessed hazard in the selected parts of Pakistan including Baluchistan province. Seismic Hazard Assessment for Khyber Pukthunkhwa (KPK) province has been previously done on large scale, however no such work has been carried out for Baluchistan province. The seismicity and frequency major earthquakes in Baluchistan province, require detailed Seismic Hazard Assessment. This paper presents the Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment (PSHA) of Baluchistan Pakistan, emphasizing on spectral acceleration parameters. Earthquake loading is defined in terms of 0.2sec and 1.0sec spectral acceleration. Seismic hazard is estimated in terms of Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) using Earthquake Risk Assessment (ERA) framework. This Framework is developed using Ambarasey's 2005 Ground Motion Prediction Equation for the assessment of hazard. A maximum Peak Ground Acceleration of 1.21 g, occurs in the district of Sibi, while minimum was found in Chaman of 0.03g using 1.0sec (S1) spectral acceleration and 0.65g at Quetta using 0.2sec (Ss) spectral acceleration. Seismic hazard mitigation strategies are recommended depending on the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wadhrai igneous body occurs to the north of the Nagar Parkar town. This and other bodies constituting the Nagar Parkar Igneous Complex are an extension of the Malani Igneous Suite of western Rajasthan. The body is occupied by petrographically uniform granite composed of perthite, albitic plagioclase, quartz, and small quantities of biotite, opaque oxide and titanite. The rocks are sparingly porphyritic and contain dykes and veins of microgranite, aplite and quartz; pegmatites are rare and simple. In the southeastern part, the granite is invaded by parallel sheets and swarms of many mafic dykes, and rhyolite sheets. The mafic dykes are porphyritic to aphyric and consist of calcic plagioclase, hornblendic amphibole or clinopyroxene +/- olivine, ilmenite, titanite and a range of secondary minerals. Many of the mafic dykes are strongly altered, some totally, and a few beyond recognition. The rhyolite sheets are sparsely porphyritic, at places banded, and composed of perthite, quartz, albite, sodic amphibole, aegirine-augite, opaque oxide and titanite. The main rhyolite sheet extends for more than 2 km and attains a thickness of 30 m. While the felsic dykes are apparently related to the granite, the mutual relations between the granite, mafic and rhyolite sheets are yet to be deciphered, but the rhyolites may represent melts derived from the crust through underplating by mafic magma. This paper gives detailed petrography of the rocks, together with newly prepared geological maps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal contains many toxic elements which become mobile during mining and combustion processes and contaminate the surface and ground-water quality. The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of coal mining on the degradation of the environment. For this purpose around 21 coal samples were collected randomly from six coal mining sites within Cherat area and analyzed for arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The results of the chemical analysis of coal samples revealed presence of trace elements i.e. Cu, Ni, Co, Pb, Cr, Zn, Cd, Fe, and As ranging from 5.62-28.12 mg/kg, 9.66-23.63 mg/kg, 4.47-30.96 mg/kg, 43.22-87.32 mg/kg, 20.51-72.4 mg/kg, 5.45-51.82 mg/kg, 1.23-2.58 mg/kg, 1240-2751.1 mg/kg and 3.51-5.77 mg/kg, respectively. It has been also observed that the sample collected from shakot-1(Sk-1) has got the highest concentration of Cu Ni, Co, Pb, Zn and Cd. While Fe and Cr contents were enriched mostly in the coal samples taken from Jabar tar (Jt), Arsenic was abundant in Bakhtai (Bk) coal mine. In comparison with rest of the country and worldwide, Cherat coals have higher concentration of Co, Pb, Cr and Cd but lower in Cu, Ni, Fe, As and Zn contents on the average. This paper presents an experimental investigation of heavy and trace elements of Cherat coal and may serve as a useful information about environmental risks associated with coal mining in Cherat area of Khyber Paktunkhwa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we have used the outcrop data and utilized facies analysis techniques for the dynamic depositional modeling of Chhidru Formation, exposed in the Nammal Gorge and the Chhidru Nala sections in the Salt Range, Upper Indus Basin of Pakistan. Based on the integrated field and petrographic criteria, five different facies types i.e., CHF-1-CHF-5 are recognized. The CHF-1 corresponds to the sandy limestone interbedded with clays facies while CHF-2 is a medium bedded sandy limestone facies. The CHF-3 is represented by the massive sandy limestone facies. The CHF-4 (calcareous sandstone facies) and CHF-5 (thick bedded to massive white sandstone facies) have been identified in the upper part of the two stratigraphic sections. The depositional characteristics of these facies are consistent with the proximal inner shelf to distal middle shelf settings of a siliciclastic-carbonate mixed platform. Based on the integration of the outcrop data, facies information and fusulinid biostratigraphy the dynamic depositional model of the Chhidru Formation is presented. The new data enabled identification of two (02) 3rd order Transgressive-Regressive depositional sequences. The first Transgressive Sequence consists of the Transgressive Systems Tract (TST 1) that further constitutes six parasequences. The second transgressive depositional sequence constitutes the second Transgressive Systems Tract (TST 2) with no significant parasequence. The chronologic calibration fusulnid biostratigraphic age of the Chidru Formation suggest that deposition of the at the base TST 1 started at 252.5 Ma and the topmost beds of TST 2 corresponds to 253.8 Ma, respectively. The global comparison of the relative sea level during 252.5-253.8 Ma shows prominent eustatic signatures, however the flooding surfaces bounding the parasequences are ascribed to the local tectonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates liquefaction resistance of the coastal belt of Karachi stretched over 38 kms, the assessment is based on the scattered standard penetration test data of 120 bore logs. The liquefaction potential has been evaluated using simplified procedure developed by Seed and Idriss (1971) and modified by Youd et al. (2001). The results of analysis are transformed into maps, which are expected to serve as general guidelines for effective town-planning, designing efficient mitigation systems, ground-failure vulnerability and for future microzonation studies. This study endeavours to provide the basis on which a comprehensive microzonation map of Karachi can be developed after some modifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper the hydrocarbon source rock potential of the Early Permian strata of the Choa-Khewra Road Section in eastern Salt Range and the Zaluch Nala Section in western Salt Range, Potwar Basin, Pakistan is presented. The six outcrop samples of organic clays from the Tobra and Dandot Formations from eastern Salt range while Warchha and Sardhai Formations from the Zaluch Nala sections were collected for the Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and Rock Eval Pyrolysis analyses. Various geochemical cross plots were constructed using the total organic carbon and pyrolysis values of the analyzed rock samples to know the qualitative assessment of organic matter and presence of any indigenous or migrated hydrocarbons. Our result shows that the Tobra Formation is thermally mature with 0.55 % and 0.83 % TOC hence Type III kerogen with a tendency to generate indigenous hydrocarbons. The Dandot Formation is thermally immature Type III kerogen, with 0.78 % TOC that can generate indigenous hydrocarbons. The Warchha and Sardhai formations both are thermally immature Type III kerogen and a 0.73 %; 1.05 % and 1 % respectively, with an indigenous hydrocarbons generation potential. The XRD results shows that the percentage of clay minerals i.e. ductile minerals are less than the brittle minerals i.e. Quartz etc. Brittleness Index for the Tobra, Dandot and Warchha Formations shows brittle nature and are suitable for hydraulic fracturing while the Sardhai formation shows less brittle material and considered suitable for fracking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is an attempt to quantify the indoor and outdoor gamma radiation level, the associated effective dose rate and Lifetime Cancer Risk in Gahkuch, the capital city of district Ghizer in the eastern Hindukush. All measurements have been carried out by FAG radiation dose rate meter in representative houses made of different construction materials. These measurements were performed at standard height of 1 meter above the ground level. The mean absorbed dose rate was 229.5 nGy/h for indoor and 220.6 nGy/h for outdoor environments, which is greater than global level. Annual Effective Dose for indoor were determined as 1.0 mSv/y while for outdoor its value was 0.4 mSv/y, which differs to the average worldwide value of 0.48 mSv/y. Average Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk was found to be 3.4×10-3 for indoor while it was 1.4×10-3 for outdoor. Both of these values are higher than the World average value 0.29×10-3. The current study shows that Gahkuch, Ghizer is placed in those regions where a remarkably high dose rate exists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rock mass deformation modulus is an important parameter in numerical modeling for the stability analysis of tunnels and underground excavations. This parameter can be determined by direct and indirect methods. The direct method includes in-situ tests which are costly, timing consuming and the reliability of the result is also questionable. In indirect method different empirical models are used for estimation of rock mass deformation modulus. In this paper Rock Mass Rating (RMR), Geological Strength Index (GSI), Young Modulus of Elasticity and Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) were used as input parameters in empirical models for determination of deformation modulus for rock mass. The Multi Liner Regression (MLR) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) were used for assessment of the prediction performance of different established empirical models for estimation deformation modulus for rock mass. After analysis and comparison of results obtained from MLR and ANN, it was concluded that, the ANN based model predicting performance is better as compared to MLR model for all five data sets and the performance of both models is much better for those data sets which are collected from empirical equation containing three input variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article emphasizes on mercury (Hg) and its negative effects on wild plants and soil of these plants. Hg is highly demanded element because of its multiple uses as the most dangerous element for both environment and human. Not only biotic but also nonliving things can be exposed to Hg contamination. This article investigated the concentrations of Hg in wild plants and their soil samples along the three rivers including Giligt, Hunza and Indus of Northern areas of Pakistan. Natural and anthropogenic sources of Hg are present on the earth crust. Small-scale gold mining exists along these rivers and contribute in the emission of Hg in the environment through amalgamation and roasting process for gold separation from the sediments. This study based on terrestrial environment including wild plants with their soil. Almost 75-80% samples in plants showed the higher Hg contamination, while 99% soil samples showed the higher Hg concentrations. The results indicated that the mean concentrations were 27.01µg/kg and 214.31 µg/kg for plants and soil, respectively. These findings indicated the presence of Hg in the study area and contamination of soil and wild plant samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geochemistry and petrography of the late Cretaceous Pab sandstone exposed at the Laki Range, Southern Indus basin has been carried out in order to acquire better understanding of source rock, paleoclimate and the tectonics. The unit in the study area dominantly comprises of sandstone with some conglomeratic sandstone and mudstone beds. The petrographic studies of Pab sandstone reveal the quartz as the major mineral constituent in almost all analyzed samples. The monocrystalline variety of quartz was seen dominant than the polycrystalline; with dominant non-undulatory extinction, the undulation was also noticed. In addition, studied samples reflect medium to coarse size grains, angular to subangular to subrounded shape characterized with the grain to grain contacts as point to straight and sutured. Iron oxide is observed to be leading cement with calcareous as the second most abundant cementing material, the matrix was also observed in minor amount. The monocrystalline quartz abundance in Pab sandstone indicate the existence of granitic rocks in the source region. The lesser fragments of feldspar and lithics suggest of their alteration to various clay minerals. The Pab sandstone is composed mainly of monocrystalline quartz derived dominantly from craton interior as revealed through plots of model composition on Quartz -Feldspar-Lithics (QFL) and Quartz Monocrystalline-Feldspar-Lithics (QmFLt) plots as per the petrographic characterization. The major element geochemistry of Pab sandstone indicates that the samples comprised of abundant SiO2 (56.21 to 69.93 wt.%), Al2O3 (12.56 to 22.98 wt.%), CaO (1.68 to 6.38 wt.%) and Fe2O3 (3.87 to 14.12 wt.%), the rest of the major oxides are <2 wt.%. Additionally, major element compositions suggest the sediment derivation from a granitic source. The Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA) values ranging from 61.12 to 83.75 and the values of Plagioclase Index of Alteration (PIA) ranging from 59.94 to 89.44 suggests that studied sediments underwent the weathering conditions being moderate to intense in warm and humid climate regime. The present petrographic findings and geochemical data suggest the sediment derivation from huge Cratonic landmass (Indian Shield). The similar rock types in the form of Nagar Parkar Igneous Complex are still exposed in the southeast of study area in Pakistan and Malani Igneous Suite in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population growth and economic development on the Pakistani coasts necessitate tsunami hazard analyses. Numerous valuable research outputs already exist given the 1945 Makran earthquake and tsunami. To fill the gap, and present additional scenarios regarding the characteristics of tsunamis at these coasts, an innovative tsunami source model is developed for simulations. The geographical information system (GIS) techniques are used for the mapping of seismogenic sources, placing the fault planes and approximation of their extent in the source model. The segmentation of the Makran subduction zone is practiced, designating its eastern segment as a tsunami source region. The extent of rupture induced by the 1945 Makran earthquake is related to the size of the tsunami source in the formulation of the new source model. The earthquake catalogs and literature on previously developed source models are consulted to estimate various constituting parameters of this model. The bathymetry profile near coasts is analyzed to assess the susceptibility of submarine landslides that may enhance tsunami impacts. Simulations of the 1945 tsunami yielded ~5 m high wave while simulation of the worst tsunami based on an Mw 8.6 earthquake scenario yielded an amplitude of ~8 m. The late and prolonged arrival of high waves after the first tsunami is also observed in simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Eocene Nisai Formation of the Pishin Belt at its type section represents thick carbonatesiliciclastics, deposited in an intermittent sub-basin between Eurasian and Indian plates on the north-western margin of Pakistan. These carbonates contain rich assemblages of Larger Benthic Foraminifera (LBF) (Discocyclina, Operculina, Alveolina, Assilina, milliolids, Nummulites etc.), smaller benthic, planktonic foraminifera and other fossil assemblages such as molluscs, brachiopods, bryozoans, algae etc. Microfacies of the Nisai Formation have been studied using biota along with the lithological characters and sedimentary textures. Eight carbonate microfacies have been recognized representing deposition in an inner ramp to outer ramp settings. The association of abundant Nummulties, Assilina, lenticular Discocyclina and algae along with quartz grains at places represent a mid-ramp setting developed as result of episodic relative sea level fall, enhanced continental weathering and tectonic uplift. Flattened Discocyclina, Operculina, Nummulities, smaller benthic foraminifera, planktonic foraminifer accumulation indicates an outer ramp setting and milliolids contribute shallow marine inner ramp environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water plays a vital role in different physiological functions like maintenance of turgidity, nutrient uptake and metabolic processes in plants. The application of groundwater has been adopted for crop cultivation in many water-scarce areas. However, the quality of groundwater is deteriorating day by day due to urbanization and industrialization. Therefore, a five-year (2015-2020) study was conducted to assess the fitness of groundwater being used for field application in different tehsils of Rawalpindi District. A total of 559 samples were collected in six tehsils of Rawalpindi, analyzed and categorized according to suitability criteria set by FAO (2013). Mean data showed that 70% of the total samples were fit, 9% marginally fit and 21% were found unfit for irrigation purposes. It was also recorded that a maximum (37%) of total unfit samples belonged to Gujar Khan tehsil whereas, the majority of samples of Taxila tehsil were fit compared to other Tehsils of Rawalpindi District. About 14.7% of water samples were recorded unfit due to Electrical Conductivity (EC), 5.9% due to Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), 11.4% due to Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC), 19.4% due to EC+RSC, 14% due to EC+SAR, 8% due to SAR+RSC, and 11.8% were unfit in terms of EC+RSC+SAR. Depending upon water quality, farmers were advised to use good quality water for crops. Suitable remedial measures for marginally fit/unfit water samples were suggested considering the salinity or sodicity of the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research work, one-dimensional (1D) oedometer load-unload tests are performed on unreinforced monofilament PVA (poly vinyl alcohol) fibre alone, cement only, and Toyoura sand specimens with fibres and cement to evaluate compression behaviour and obtain critical state line slope (), elastic loading and unloading line slope () and K0 normal compression line (N or K0 NCL) parameters. The K0 NCL of monofilament PVA fibre only, cement only, and Toyoura sand specimens containing monofilament PVA fibres plus cement is shown to differ from that of clean cohesionless samples. The addition of additives (fibre and/or cement) to cohesionless soil (Toyoura sand) has no effect on the K0 NCL slope, but increasing the amount of these additives pushes it beyond the K0 NCL of unreinforced sand. It demonstrates that cementitious connections and lock-in influence caused by short discrete/monofilament PVA fibres are strong enough in contrast to clean sand particles. The migration of the K0 NCL to the right has been recorded in the prior literature for monofilament PVA fibre only, cement only, and Toyoura sand specimens containing fibres and cement. The findings of this investigation are consistent with previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditionally, the interaction factors including pile-soil-raft and pile-soil-pile in pile-raft system are often ignored to simplify the analysis that leads to unsafe and inadequate designs. In addition, the pile-raft system involves interaction with soil which makes it complex to analyze. The interaction depends on many geometrical and strength factors: including, modulus of elasticity of soil (E), Poisson's ratio (?), spacing/diameter (s/d) ratio, length of piles, geometry of raft etc. To investigate the effect of these parameters in the design of pile raft system, we proposed interaction charts for pile-raft system. A series of 3D finite element analysis were performed and effect of parameters was studied. It has been found that there is a possible interaction between pile, soil, and raft that has effect on the design of pile-raft system. From the developed charts, the results clearly highlighted that the pile-soil-pile interaction decreases with increasing s/d ratio, and soils with high modulus of elasticity are more sensitive to variation of interaction factors between the piles of a pile-raft system. Furthermore, increasing the length of pile enhances the interaction between pile and soil while increase s/d decreases the interaction factor. It is concluded from the parametric study that the designers should consider the effect of interaction factors in the design of the pile-raft system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The marine deposits of middle Cretaceous Arabian continental margin are assigned to the Kazhdumi and Sarvak formations and best exposed in the south Zagros Basin (SW Iran). However, detailed studies related to the sedimentary environments, biostratigraphy and microfacies distribution of the middle Cretaceous sequence in south Zagros basin are still scarce. This study presents detailed biostratigraphic and microfacies analysis of the Kazhdumi and Sarvak formations on two sections in the northeast Interior Fars zone to reconstruct the sedimentary evolution of Middle Cretaceous Arabian continental margin. The Kazhdumi Formation is conformably worn by Sarvak Formation. The biozones were encountered in the studied areas and the following seven assemblage zones have been defined. Stratigraphic distribution of identified foraminifers supports Albian to late Cenomanian age of Kazhdumi and Sarvak Formations at the study area. The recognized eleven microfacies in Kazhdumi and Sarvak formations are clustered into lagoon, tidal flat, barrier and open marine sedimentary environments. A carbonate shelf and shallow ramp is suggested for Sarvak and Kazhdumi Formation respectively. The transgressive and highstand deposits reveal a predominance of deep and shallow subtidle facies respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the sandstone facies of the Nari Formation from the Nari River Section in Southern Kirthar Range, Pakistan are studied to decipher their diagenetic processes, stages, and associated tectonic events using petrographic, mineralogical, and geochemical analysis. The field study encompasses outcrop observations, section measurement and sampling. Laboratory work includes thin-section preparation and analysis of the samples under a petrographic microscope, X-Ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy. During this study, different diagenetic processes, such as cementation, compaction, quartz dissolution, quartz overgrowth, and grain deformation porosity are identified. Results indicate that iron oxide is the most abundant cementing material in samples followed by calcite and dolomite. The cement has completely destroyed the primary porosity. The sandstone of the Nari Formation indicates poor to well compaction as exhibited by grain contacts. Identified diagenetic processes are classified into three diagenetic stages, which are eogenesis, mesogenesis and telogenesis. Eogenesis is contemporary to the deposition of Nari Formation. Nari Formation experienced mesogenesis during the Pliocene. Deformation and uplifting of the north-western margin of the Indian Plate during the Pliocene-Pleistocene brought the Nari Formation into the regime of telogenesis. This study suggests that the diagenesis of the Nari Formation is controlled by the Oligocene-Pleistocene tectonic evolution of the study area. This integrated and comprehensive investigation not only provides important constraints on the diagenetic history of the Nari Formation but also accentuates the crucial role played by the Oligocene-Pleistocene tectonic evolution to control the diagenesis of the Nari Formation in the study area. The present work will serve as a demonstration of the critical interaction between diagenetic processes and tectonic events in the evolution of sedimentary formations thereby offering valuable insights for both academic understanding and geological resource exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tarbela dam, with the main functions of hydropower (3,750 MW installed capacity) and irrigation, is being threatened by the menace of sedimentation. The underwater delta is advancing at a rapid pace towards the main embankment dam, being at 5.25 miles from Main Embankment Dam (MED) in 2012. This study is aimed at monitoring Tarbela reservoir's underwater delta pivot point advancement and its forecast mapping. Secondary data regarding pivot point elevation and its distance from the MED was obtained from the reservoir's library. Base map of delta direction was obtained from the surveying department at Tarbela dam. The data was processed in Arc GIS and Microsoft Excel to perform meaningful analysis. The study concludes that the average sediments deposited in the reservoir for the period of 1980-2012 were 0.1 MAF. Delta pivot point was at a distance of 5.45 miles from the MED in 2012 and according to our study, it will be only at a distance of 0.45 miles from MED in 2032. The In order to enhance the efficiency and life of Tarbela dam, this study suggests that immediate sediment management, either active or passive methods e.g. dredging, hydro suction and flushing must be adopted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination of tillage implements and weeding durations is very important for the improvement in the leaf area index and chlorophyll content of fodder maize along with the environment friendly management of the weeds infesting maize crop. In this connection, two field experiments were conducted at the Research Farm of the University of Agriculture Peshawar during the summer seasons of 2016 and 2017. Two tillage implements including mouldboard plough and cultivator as factor A (allotted to main plots) and 14 different weeding durations as factor B (assigned to subplots) were used in a randomized complete plot design with split plot arrangement. Data were recorded on leaf area, leaf area index, number of leaves plant-1, and the chlorophyll content of maize plants. The results indicated that there was a higher leaf area (294 cm2), leaf area index (2.1), leaves count plant-1 (11.7) and chlorophyll content (50.1 SPAD values) in mouldboard plough treatments than in the cultivator treatments. On the other hand, among the weeding intervals, the highest leaf area (377 cm2), leaf area index (2.7), leaves count plant-1 (13) and chlorophyll content (60.3 SPAD values) were achieved in full season weeding treatments, followed by 12 weeks weeding treatments, 10 weeks, 8, 6, 4 and 2 weeks weeding. Moreover, for the interaction of tillage implements and weeding regimes, the leaf area, leaf area index, leaves count plant-1and chlorophyll content were highest in the interaction of mouldboard plough under full season weeding regimes. In conclusion, the interaction of mouldboard plough with full season weeding has been the most successful combination for achieving the best leaf area index and chlorophyll content of maize crop plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limestone is regarded as one of the most important construction materials for mega-engineering projects. The evaluation of strength and durability characteristics of limestone is a pre-requisite for its use in any engineering project. The rock's compressive strength is obtained using the Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) test and Point Load Index (PLI). However, in large projects, performing UCS test is timeconsuming, needs effort and is costly, while PLI can be misleading in the case of anisotropic rocks. In such cases, the implementation of the non-destructive tests is useful that are cost-effective and reduce time. Schmidt Hammer Test (SHT), is an indirect method to estimate the UCS and PLI. The test is easy and quickly applicable in the laboratory as well as in the field. Strength tests, such as UCS, PLT, and SHT were performed on rock samples of two Eocene formations i.e, Shekhan Formation (SF) and Kohat Formation (KF) of Kohat Basin. A strong linear relationship obtained between the SHT and UCS for the limestone of SF and KF having a correlation coef. of 0.827 and 0.840, respectively. Furthermore, strong linear relationship is also obtained between the SHT and PLI having a correlation coef. of 0.727 and 0.758, respectively. This study presents new correlations with high accuracy for the prediction of UCS and PLI from indirect SHT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study intends to use the amplitude versus offset (AVO) analysis technique for future hydrocarbon exploration by using post-stack seismic and well data (Panjpir 01) of Kabirwala Block, Pakistan. This analysis encompasses the estimation of AVO intercept and gradient from the amplitude of first arrivals (P-wave) to the sine squared of the angle of incidence in Lumshiwal Formation. Fluid replacement model is also used to calculate the shear component by replacement of fluids (oil, gas, and water) by using Gassmann equations. The offset synthetic seismogram is constructed by using P-wave sonic, density and Swave logs response for the analysis of intercept and gradient of reflections in both gas and water cases. Interpretation of Gradient-Intercept analysis revealed that Lumshiwal Formation's sands lying in 4th quadrant of gradient-intercept cross-pots which depicts there is a gas anomaly, such sands also having 20% effective porosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing demand and depletion of high-grade ore deposit, attention is being diverted to recover the need from previously ignored, low grade ore deposits. The low grade ores are being processed by the different advance techniques of mineral processing. In this research Black Shale of Chimiari region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan was processed by floatation technique with three different reagents i.e. collectors (Sodium Amyl Xanthate and Sodium Ethyl Xanthate, triton-x-100), frothers (methyl isobutyl carbinol (MIBC) and Pine oil) and depressant (sodium silicate) with varying dosage rates as well as particle size. Three different anionic collectors, one from oxyhydryl group (triton-x-100) and others from sulphydryl group (xanthates) have been tested. Results shows that Triton-X-100 gives highest recoveries among three collectors however, grades were not improved. Sodium ethyl xanthate gives more improved results for Cu, Zn, Ti and V etc. than sodium amyl xanthate. Keeping in view the grade-recovery aspect of Total carbon content (TCC), it was observed that a dosage rate of 200 g/t of sodium amyl xanthate give better results than triton-x-100 and sodium ethyl xanthate. Two frothers from neutral category, Methyl iso-butyl carbinol (MIBC) and Pine oil were also tested and it was found that the performance MIBC was impressive than Pine oil at same dosage rates. Sodium Silicate was used as depressant for the gangue minerals (clay and silica) and results reveals that at dosage rate of 1.5 kg/t, clay minerals were depressed more than silicate. Similarly, tests were performed with heads of four particle sizes ranges of -53, -106+53, -150+106 and -212+150 microns respectively. Particle size analysis reveals that fine grinding improves recovery of TCC from 45% to 68%, while grads decreased. It was also found that fine grinding also improves recovery of heavy metals. The analysis of floated fractions with XRF and ICP-OES, also confirm the up-gradation of many base and heavy earth metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 21st century urbanization has strained the global housing sector to go vertical by developing highrise buildings and skyscrapers to meet the growing accommodation demands. Concerns that were raised in designing and constructing such heavier building foundations and consequently their probable settlement have brought new dimensions in concrete technology by introducing lightweight concrete. Lightweight concrete produced from either natural or synthetic lightweight aggregates (LWA) has addressed such complications. Bloated shale used as LWA has shown remarkable results in many developed countries so it may be easily adopted in developing Pakistani construction industry too. For the present study, Panoba Shale from Kohat-Hangu region was evaluated as "aglite" LWA. The average geochemical concentration (in %wt) for studied shale exhibit silica 57%; alumina 20%; Fe2O3 9.45% and LOI 8.14% whereas, rest of oxides are in traces. Neither iron staining nor any organic impurities were found in these bloated specimens. The average physical characteristics for these aggregates exhibit; loose bulk density of 601kg/m3, clay lumps 0.7%, specific gravity 1.44 and water absorption 13% thus conforming to ASTM C330 specifications for structural LWA. The abundance of essential raw material (shale) and the availability of required energy resources for its processing make the study area an ideal location for the installation of LWA manufacturing plants. The endproduct can be marketed in neighboring major cities of northern Pakistan (Islamabad and Peshawar), boosting economic activities in the area and bringing new dimensions in construction industry of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gilgit-Baltistan is known for the extraction of placer gold as well as base metals however, no significant work has been done to investigate the host rock. This study is mainly focused on identification of the host rock for metallic minerals of Gindai Yasin, Ghizer district of Gilgit Baltistan, located towards south-west of the Main Karakorum Thrust (MKT), a mega thrust separating Kohistan Island Arc from the Karakoram plate. The Shamaran volcanics consist of heterogeneous basaltic-andesite to andesite and calc-alkaline rock units. Petrographic results indicate that, the rocks of mineralised zone are felsic to mafic in composition, optical analysis showed that these rocks had gone through extrusive hydrothermal alteration. The rocks mostly comprised of metallic minerals include chalcopyrite, malachite, pyrite and azurite. From the geochemical analysis, a significant portion of the sample is basaltic-andesite to andesite in composition, and mineralised zones are mafic to ultramafic. Gold and copper concentrations varies from 2.43-4.76 ppm, and 26800-98600ppm respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to find the contamination in soil and its impacts on the tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) crops irrigated with industrial wastewater. For this purpose, a number of soil samples (both control and contaminated areas) and Nicotiana tabacum crop samples were collected from the Gadoon area and analyzed for major and trace elements. Results showed that the elemental contents in contaminated areas, namely Cr 65.7%, Cd 27.5%, Pb 73%, Cu 56.7%, Zn 54.3%, Co 24%, Fe 31.6%, Mn 39%, Na 49%, Ca 34% and K 42.6% were expressively higher than the control area and Chinese soil standard (CSS). While the elemental contents (mg kg-1) in Nicotiana tabacum crops, namely Cr 5.1, Cd 0.5, Pb 5.0, Ni 4.4, Cu 10.1, Mn 28.6, Na 26, and K 27. The present study depicted that, Cr, Ca, Mg may cause extreme pollution, Cu and Pb may cause moderate pollution, while Zn, Co, and Fe may cause slight pollution. In the contaminated areas, Cd, Co, Cu, Ni, Zn, K, and Na were highly accumulated, while the remaining elements were in the normal range. Furthermore, Cr may cause high ecological risks, Pb considerable, while Cd, Cu, Mg and Ca cause moderate ecological risks. The study concluded that industrial wastewater is a major threat to soil and food safety. Furthermore, it is suggested to adopt an optimum soil remediation technique for mitigating soil pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrologiest are debating on the rise in global glacier melting. However, the situation in Karakoram glaciers seems not the same. Therefore, it is essential to measure the status of snow in the Karakoram region of (GB; Gilgit-Baltistan) Pakistan. To this end, the current study examines the dynamics of snow cover using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) 8-days sow-cover in response to in-situ meteorological indicators from four high altitude automatic weather stations in Upper Indus Basin (UIB). The results conclude that the 8-days snow cover images not only show the qualities of MODIS (high resolution) images it's also characterized the high accuracies for snow-cover classification (~85 to 95 %). We analysed the snow-cover dynamics in the UIB and computed the maximum quantity of snow cover days (SCD) in a year that shadowed an increasing trend from 2000-2014, with an increase in snow-covered area (SCA) of 45.04% to 59.26% of the total land area of GB. Besides, there is a slightly decreasing trend observed in the SCA of Hindukush, and Himalayan mountains region in the last 15 years, due to increases in temperature and precipitation. Spearman's correlation analysis is also obtained between monthly and annually snow-cover changes (snow accumulation /depletion over six elevation zones above 2000 m elevation) and temperature. The month of January shows decreasing trends for five elevation zones out of six zones below 6000 m elevation. In spring, particularly in March shows a decreasing trend for two zones above 5000m elevations, while shows increasing trend in autumn for three zones above 4000 m elevation. A negative trend observed between monthly SCA and Khunjerab area (mean temperature and precipitation), and similar results are also noted for the remaining three regions such as Deosai, Naltar and Shandoor of UIB. The study suggests that, in the UIB region, climate change also employ a significant influence on regional SCA and days, as well as the distribution of snow-cover. These findings help for the forecasting of seasonal flow in the area and signifying snow-cover as a possible predictor of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater flow and transport modeling conducted for court litigation at Plateau Plaza, Rocky Mount, VA, USA. In October 1999 about 6,500 to 7,500 liters of petroleum released to the subsurface. Many residential and commercial water supply wells impacted by dissolved phase MTBE. The study objective is to evaluate travel time of dissolved phase MTBE from site to individual properties of supply wells, MS-7 and MS-9. Groundwater flow and dissolved phase transport models were constructed using MODFLOW and MT3D. The two-layered model was conceptualized and constructed using historical drilling data, groundwater gauging, sampling, slug-testing, and geophysical studies. Flow and transport models calibrated to historical groundwater levels and concentrations. Sensitivity analysis conducted to evaluate uncertainty in hydraulic conductivity, dispersivity, and source concentration. The conclusions based on geologic, hydrogeologic, geophysical and dissolved concentration data spanning over eight years that portray actual field conditions. The specific dates of dissolved MTBE movement and to approach the boundaries of individual properties based on modeling and professional expertise. The model is sensitive to change in any parameter that would affect the plume speed. Any changes to those parameters, including changes that would slow the migration of the simulated plume were detrimental to the calibration of the model. It is appraised that the dissolved MTBE entered the property of Well No. MS-7 in the deep and upper zones in December 31, 2001, and February 24, 2002, respectively. The plume in the property of Well No. MS-9 entered in deeper and upper zones in September 11, 2002, and October 13, 2002. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An integrated approach has been deployed to investigate dolomite of the Eocene Chorgali Formation exposed in the Khair-e-Murat Range, Potwar Plateau, Pakistan. Two typical genetic dolomite groups are identified and interpreted based on X-rays Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), chemical alizarin red staining and petrographic studies. The first group is represented by early-diagenetic alizarin-red-unstained dolomites. They are associated with evaporite(s) (gypsum) and characterized by stoichiometric composition of 50.28 mole % CaCO3 and degree of order is 0.682. The second group includes fine crystalline, alizarin-red-unstained relatively early late or late diagenetic dolomite crystals not associated with evaporite(s). It is represented by nearly stoichiometric composition of 48.76 mole % CaCO3 and degree of order varies from 0.58 to 0.9747. The dolomite associated with evaporite (gypsum) is interpreted to be precipitated in arid peritidal (sabkha) environment while the other dolomite not associated with evaporite is reflecting dolomitization in open diagenetic system (mixed marine-meteoric environment). Within the Chorgali Formation, the presence of dolomite is enhancing the reservoir capability making it prospective for hydrocarbon exploration. The photomicrographs based estimated porosity values are 2.0 % and 1.0% for dolomite associated with evaporite(s) and dolomite-notassociated with evaporite(s) respectively, however, qualitative permeability seems to be relatively higher in dolomite associated with evaporite(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floods are the most destructive among all hazards across the globe. Research revealed that there is a marked increase in frequency and intensity of floods. Therefore, it is important to assess flood risk and reduce its probability and negative consequences. Assessment of flood probability helps to identify those areas which are very likely to be flooded in future. The current study attempts to assess the probability of floods by studying the causes, nature and intensifying factors in district Peshawar. In order to achieve the desired objectives, primary data regarding flood hazard were collected in a questionnaire survey, field observation and interviews of the relevant community and departments. Whereas secondary data were taken from Satellite images, irrigation department and Pakistan Meteorological Department. Flood hazard probability was determined for different return periods by developing flood scenarios. The Flood-2008 in the study area was considered as a landmark event for these scenarios. For visual interpretation, four different return periods of 5, 10, 50 and 100 years were mapped. Fast expansion in the built-up areas and other developmental works, violation of landuse planning and presence of bottlenecks (flood intensifying conditions) were found as main causative factors for the probability of flood hazard in the area under investigation. On the basis of findings from this study, it is recommended to build check dams or reservoirs in the upstream area, and a proper flood forecasting and warning system must be established. Furthermore, it is also recommended to implement the landuse planning regulations in the flood plain, in order to reduce the probability of flood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is scoped on biostratigraphy, and palaeodepositional analysis of the Sarvak Formation, Fars Zone, and Zagros, Iran. The biostratigraphy and microfacies of this Formation form four field sections, are discussed. The Sarvak Formation in the study area is located on Kazhdumi Formation and below the Gurpi Formation and comprise of cream to grey medium bedded to massive limestone. Seven foraminiferal assemblages have been identified from the Sarvak Formation and these assemblages form the basis of the biostratigraphy. The lower and upper parts of Sarvak Formation are lacking diagnostic microfossils and based on their stratigraphic position, Late Albian-Late Cenomanian, ages was assigned respectively. Field and microscopic data led to the identification of five facies groups; Planktonic foraminifera-dominated facies, Benthic foraminifera-dominated facies, Rudist facies, Orbitolina facies and Mudstone facies, these facies were subdivided into twelve subfacies, which were grouped into three depositional environments: inner, middle and outer shelf and overall representing a shelf setting. Facies changes during the Late Albian-Late Cenomanian were generally associated with carbonate shelf models. These containing a number of separate aspect, namely: Orbitolina conica sp.-dominated shelf with minor Orbitolina sp. during the Late Albian, a Trocholina sp. and Conicorbitolina-dominated shelf during the Late Albian, a Rudist-to algae-dominated shelf during the most of the Early Cenomanian and a pelagic and benthic foraminifera-dominated shelf during Late Cenomanian. In general, from the Kuh-e-Gadvan section to the southwest of the Fars zone (Rashtanu section), the depth of the sedimentary basin of Sarvak Formation increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-glacial geomorphological settings bearing great amounts of colluvium as well as alluvial and moraine deposits are typical features in high mountainous environments such as the Himalayas, the Hindu Kush, the Pamirs, the Karakorum and the Tien Shan Mountains. Due to a lack of alternative living space in narrow valleys, agglomerations are often located on these unstable grounds and regularly experience dislocations across the ground surface and subsequent damage to building stock and infrastructure. Hosting two post-glacial landslide deposits and one gravitational creep within its inhabited areas, the village of Tusion, South-Western Tajikistan, was chosen to conduct geophysical surveys with the aim to determine the geomorphological causes of regularly experienced slope deformations with particular interest in the contribution of non-isolated irrigation channels crossing the mountain flanks. Over the last two decades uncontrolled seepage from a network of small-scale waterways is believed to be responsible for water infiltration to deeper horizons and - thereby - reactivate ancient sliding surfaces within the two landslide deposit zones. Also, the gravitational creep in one village part seems to be likewise triggered. Using refraction seismics and Schlumberger geoelectrics, stratigraphic structures, properties of involved rock material and saturation patterns were assessed in order to provide complementary information about the underground of concerned slopes to a previously conducted hazard assessment by separate Non-Governmental Organizations. Results of the geophysical surveys show conclusive correlations with the hazard maps and local damage reports straining that one of the major destabilizing factors for all concerned slopes consists of uncontrolled water dissipation to the underground. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the design of the tunnel in rocks, inadequate geological and geotechnical data of the construction site is a way of life. Due to this insufficiency of data, the empirical systems for rock-mass are still required for the underground excavation design. The characterization of rock mass followed by classification is an essential part of the initial support design using RMR and Q systems. In this research, these systems are used for the classification of rock mass along the diversion tunnel of a hydropower project in Pakistan. The GSI system is used for the calculation of well-known failure criteria constants. Rock mass is characterized and classified into three geological units along the tunnel route, based on seven number of bore holes, drilled in this route. These rock mass quality values are used for the deformation modulus calculation. The in situ stresses are also calculated statistically, using the available empirical equations. The empirical support determined from the two systems is evaluated numerically, using FLAC2D. The results of numerical modelling indicate that the support suggested by empirical approaches are appropriate. The results are shown in term of critical strain, thrust-bending moment interaction diagram, and axial stresses in rock bolts. Although the highest critical strain value is 0.00058 for geotechnical unit 2, however, this deformation is within the control range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, marble samples were collected from a quarry near the Karakoram Highway, and core samples were prepared for direct compressive strength, indirect strength, pulse velocity, and Schmidt hammer value testing. The study revealed a strong linear relationship between the point load index (PLI) and uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) for both dry and saturated samples, demonstrating the predictive value of PLI, especially in dry conditions. However, it is important to note the reduced reliability of this relationship in saturated samples, which is likely due to factors such as pore water pressure. An exponential relationship was also observed between ultrasonic pulse velocity (Vp) and UCS, with most samples exhibiting lower Vp values than the typical marble average. This suggests variations in the subsurface structure of the marble and warrants further investigation to understand its mechanical implications. The linear correlation between the degree of weathering and Schmidt hammer readings offers a practical method for assessing weathering conditions. Grade I marble exhibited Schmidt hammer rebound values greater than 45, while values ranged between 35 and 45 for Grade II and were less than 35 for Grade III. The stress-strain curve revealed a decrease in peak stress (from 60 MPa to 32 MPa) with saturation. These results enhance the understanding of Ghulmet marble's mechanical behavior and its suitability for diverse applications, emphasizing the importance of considering varying conditions and characteristics in geotechnical assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kohat basin in the northwestern Pakistan is a sedimentary basin and a Fold and Thrust belt bounded by the Main Boundary Thrust in the north and the Surghar ranges in the south. Geological mapping, structural modelling and restoration have been conducted in central and southern Kohat basin to understand the evolution of the Fold and Thrust belt and its hydrocarbon potential. Surface geology of the area reveals the dominancy of thrust tectonics. Manzalai Anticlinorium, Karak fault zone and Surghar ranges are the prominent structural features of the area under discussion. Synclines are generally wide while anticlines are sharp, possibly due to the isostatic adjustment of ductile and incompetent Eocene evaporites, under the post Eocene stratigraphic column. This part of the Kohat basin is in the stage of initial deformation of the presently developed tectonic model in the northern Kohat basin, where it is believed to have formed by double decollement. The subsurface contour on top of the Paleocene shows promising traps in Manzalai anticline, Karak anticline, and Karak fault zone for the well-developed and proven petroleum system of the Kohat basin. The eastern and western structural transects (A-B and C-D) show crustal shortening of 15.19% and 6.63% respectively. Major crustal shortening and stress release is concentrated in the uplift of Manzalai structure and Karak fault zone. The un-mapable intra-formational en-echelon folding at the western part of the basin, toward the Kurram fault, represents transpressional tectonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]