Subsurface disposal of coal-mine wastewater in Tharparkar, Sindh for safeguarding fresh water aquifers & farmlands

Abstract

The Thar coalfield in Sindh, Pakistan, generates substantial volumes of wastewater during dewatering operations. Surface disposal of this saline and high-TDS water has caused soil salinization, destruction of farmland, and contamination of shallow freshwater aquifers. This paper proposes adopting deep disposal wells similar to those routinely used in the oil and gas industry to safely manage mines wastewater. Leveraging both newly drilled wells and abandoned oil & gas wells in the surrounding region could reduce cost, protect agricultural land, and safeguard local communities. This study assesses the hydrogeologic context, evaluates risks, and provides a phased roadmap with policy recommendations for the Sindh Government and mining companies.