GNSS-based subsidence monitoring of Shurtan's gas reservoir in Uzbekistan

Authors

  • Dilbarkhon Fazilova Ulugh Beg Astronomical Institute of Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences, 33 Astronomy Street, 100052 Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan
  • Fayzulla Tukhtameshov Ulugh Beg Astronomical Institute of Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences, 33 Astronomy Street, 100052 Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3832-1198
  • Maftuna Rakhimberdieva Ulugh Beg Astronomical Institute of Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences, 33 Astronomy Street, 100052 Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan https://orcid.org/0009-0003-1452-5764
  • Aziz Kazakov Ulugh Beg Astronomical Institute of Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences, 33 Astronomy Street, 100052 Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan
  • Khasan Magdiev Cadaster agency under Economy and Financial Ministry of Republic Uzbekistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21014/actaimeko.v14i1.1866

Keywords:

GNSS, mining activities, monitoring, vertical movements, Shurtan gas reservoir

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of gas extraction on soil subsidence at the Shurtan Mining Complex in southern Uzbekistan, utilizing GNSS data. The complex, situated in the Beshkent trough within the Amu Darya Basin, represents a significant hub for hydrocarbon reserves, including gas, and gas condensate. Results indicate a correlation between gas extraction intensity and soil subsidence, with significant settlement observed at specific points most affected by extraction activities. Notably, annual height changes range from -0.5 mm/year to -3.4 mm/year, demonstrating the pronounced impact of gas extraction on subsidence. Tectonic processes, particularly pronounced at the transition boundary from the Tien Shan orogeny to the plain territory (Turan Plate), exert even greater influence on the nature of subsidence. Interpolation techniques, specifically Spline interpolation, are employed to visualize the spatial distribution and dynamics of terrain deformation. Key conclusions emphasize the correlation between gas extraction intensity and soil subsidence, alongside the influence of tectonic processes on height changes. Given the strategic importance of the Shurtan Mining Complex for Uzbekistan's economy, these findings hold significant implications for sustainable resource management and future research endeavors. This GNSS-based investigation offers valuable insights for advancing the understanding of geodynamic processes and informing resource management strategies in similar geological contexts.

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Published

2025-03-10

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 1 (2025)

Section

Research Papers

License

Copyright (c) 2025 Dilbarkhon Fazilova, Fayzulla Tukhtameshov, Maftuna Rakhimberdieva, Aziz Kazakov, Khasan Magdiev

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