GSI-CHQ-409

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
OF INDIA

PROGRESS REPORT FOR THE FIELD SEASON 1958-59

(UPTO OCTOBER, 1959)
A PRELIMINARY REPORT ON THE
INVESTIGATION OF GYPSUM DEPOSITS
AIDED BY DRILLING IN THE
NAGAUR DISTRICT, RAJASTHAN

By

M. K. ROY CHOWDHURY,
Superintending Geologist,
P. C. SOGANI,
Geologist,
G. J. CHANDAK,

and

S. L. MEHERA,
Assistant Geologists,
Geological Survey of India.

A 784/21
 GSI-CHQ-409

GEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA

PROGRESS REPORT FOR THE FIELD SEASON 1958-59

(UPTO OCTOBER, 1959)

……..

(A PRELIMINARY REPORT ON THE INVESTIGATION OF GYPSUM

DEPOSITS AIDED BY DRILLING IN THE NAGAUR DISTRICT.
RAJASTHAN)

By

M. K. Roy Chowdhury, Superintending Geologists,

P. C. Sogani, Geologist,
G. J. Chandak, Assistant Geologist,
S. L. Mehera, Assistant Geologist,
Geological Survey of India.

______
 GSI-CHQ-409

CONTENTS

Page

I. INTRODUCTION 1

II. GEOLOGY 2

Rol Quazian-Bhakrod Series 3

Nagaur Series 4

Sand, sandstones etc. 7

Regional geologic set up 8

III. GYPSUM DEPOSITS 9

Quality of Gypsum 10

Reserves 11

IV. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 13

GEOGRAPHICAL INDEX 14

CO-ORDINATES & R.L. OF BORE HOLES 15

Showing results Chemical analyses of gypsum

Appendix A-Table A: 16
cores (Main bed only)

Showing calculated gypsum percentage of

Appendix B-Table B: 18
subsidiary gypsum beds

Showing main and other subsidiary gypsum beds

Appendix C-Table C: met with in bore-holes (Beds of 2 ft. or more in 19
thickness)
 GSI-CHQ-409

LIST OF PLATES:
MAP OF NAGAUR AREA SHOWING DRILL HOLE
PLATE NO. I: SITES
Scale, 2 inches = 1 mile
EAST-WEST CORRELATION CHART

Datum line-sea level.

PLATE NO. II:
Horizontal 2" = 1 mile
Scale
Vertical 1" = 100 feet
EAST-WEST CORRELATION CHART

Datum line-top of the main dolomite horizon

PLATE NO. III:
Horizontal 2" = 1 mile.
Scale Vertical 1" = 100 ft.

EAST-WEST CORRELATION CHART

PLATE NO. IV: Horizontal 2" = 1 mile.

Scale
Vertical 1" = 100 ft.

NORTH-SOUTH CORRELATION CHART

Datum line - Sea level.

PLATE NO.V:
Horizontal 2" = 1 mile
Scale
Vertical 1" = 100 ft.
NORTH-SOUTH CORRELATION CHART
Detum line-top of the main dolomite horizon
PLATE NO. VI:
Horizontal 2" = 1 mile
Scale
Vertical 1" = 100 feet.

PANEL DIAGRAM OF NAGAUR AREA BASED ON

BORE-HOLE RE RECORDS

PLATE NO. VII:

HORIZONTAL 2"=1 Mile

Scale
VERTICAL 1" = 400 ft.
STRUCTURE CONTOUR MAP
PLATE NO. VIII:
Datum top of Main Gypsum Bed
Scale 2" = 1 mile.

______
 GSI-CHQ-409

Progress Report for the field season 1958-59(upto October, 1959).

…………
(A preliminary report on the investigation of gypsum deposits
aided by drilling in the Nagaur District, Rajasthan)

By
M. K. Roy Chowdhury, Superintending Geologist,
P. C. Sogani, Geologist,
G. J. Chandak, Assistant Geologist,
S. L. Mehera, Assistant Geologist,
Geological Survey of India.

----------

I. INTRODUCTION

The investigation of the gypsum deposit in the Nagaur area carried out with the help of
drilling operations prior to April, 1958 had enabled to locate deposits of fairly good quality gypsum
with the main bed of gypsum ranging in thickness from 16'4" to 32'6" and occurring below 225 feet
from the surface around Dhakuria village (27°19'33":73°42'55"). Besides the main bed of gypsum,
several other subsidiary beds of gypsum were also observed in lower horizons. During the earlier
seasons, 10 bore-holes were completed, totaling 4,940 feet and 6 inches of drilling.

The results of the work carried out during the earlier seasons have been dealt with in the
following reports:-

1. An interim report on the investigation of gypsum by S.P. Nautiyal, Superintending

Geologist, P. C. Sogani, Geologist and G. J. Chandak, Assistant Geologist, Geological Survey
of India.

2. An interim brief report on the investigation of gypsum at Nagaur and its neighbouring
areas, Rajasthan, compiled by Dr. M.K. Roy Chowdhury, Superintending Geologist,
Geological Survey of India.

3. A brochure on "Nagaur Gypsum", published by the Geological Survey of India, for

distribution during "Nagaur Exhibition" arranged between 1st and 7th October, 1959 in
connection with the inauguration of the Scheme of Democratic Decentralisation in the State
by the Prime Minister of India.
 GSI-CHQ-409

In consequence of the encouraging results of drilling during the earlier season, the exploratory
programme was further continued in order to delineate the boundaries of the buried gypsum deposits
in the Dhakuria area and also to locate similar deposits around and adjacent to the Nagaur town.
During the period under review 17 bore-holes with a total of 7,919 feet were drilled. An additional rig
was made available for the work from May to November, 1958 and was found very useful, as it
helped to have better progress and quicker results. This rig completed 3 bore-holes and had drilled
total of 1,847 feet. In all 27 bore-holes have been completed and a total of 12,859 feet have been
drilled.

The sub-surface data based on the results of the bore holes drilled so far, indicate the
possibility of the existence of two basins in the operational area where the main gypsum bed appears
to have been deposited, viz., the northern one around Dhakuria and the southern in the vicinity of
Nagaur town (Plate I). The work of delineation of the boundries of the main gypsum beds is almost
complete in the above areas, except portions to the east and north-east of the northern basin and
southern extension of the southern basin.

Besides drilling, Systematic mapping was carried out on the photostatically enlarged copies
(scale 2" = 1 mile) of the Survey of India toposheets No. 45E/SE & E/NE (scale ½" = 1 mile) and an
area of about 213 sq. miles was covered.

Shri P. C. Sogani, Geologist, continued to be the Officer-in-Charge of the Nagaur Drilling

Project and was assisted by Shri G. J. Chandak & Shri S.L. Mehera, Assistant Geologists.

The rigs were under the charge of Sarvashri S. P. Purohit, A. K. Dey, B.B.Naik and Harlit
Singh, Drillers, and Sarvashri Ajit Singh and P.G. Nair, Deputy Drilling Engineers.

Shri S.P. Nautiyal continued to be the Superintending Geologist-in-Charge of the Nagaur

operations till October, 1958, and paid an inspection visit during May, 1958. Subsequently, Dr. M.K.
Roy Chowdhury, Superintending Geologist, took over the Project and visited Nagaur in November,
1958 in the company of Dr. B.C. Roy, Director, Geological Survey of India, and latter during
February, September and October, 1959.

II. GEOLOGY
The rock exposures are scanty, and occur usually as isolated patches scattered among the sand
covered regions and sand dunes. There may not be any rock outcrop for many miles at a stretch and
one may have to pass over only sand. The geological information has therefore been mostly gathered,
from quarries, wells and ponds and partially from the bore hole data.
 GSI-CHQ-409

The following gives the tentative geological succession met with in this area:-
Desert sand, sometimes with gypsite Fault or Recent Seen everywhere; gypsite at
unconformity Dhakuria, Bhandwasi etc.

Medium to coarse grained, perous and Bhagu quarry,

gragile sandstones. B.H. 6NR,
Untwalia.
Limestones, Sandstones and siltstones. Raidhanu etc.

Nagaur Calcareous sandstones with shales and siltstones, Gagolao,

Series Nagaur, Basni Bailima.
Sandstones medium to coarse grained, occasionally gritty and
pebbly; with interbedded siltstones.
?Bhanders
Siltstones, claystones with interbedded In wells and bore-holes.
sandstones.
Claystones and clays,
occasionally interbedded with siltstones and
sandstones.
Claystones, clays, dolomites and limestones with gypsum (in In bore-holes.
form of beds, veins and stringers occurring in several
horizons).
Fault or inconformity

Rol Dolomites and limestones, highly cherty at ?L.Vindhyan Rol Qazian,Mundwa,

Qazian-Bhakrod places Bhakrod, Makori.
Series.

Rol Qazian-Bhakrod Series: These possibly represent the oldest rocks in this area and consist
of grey, greyish white to dark grey dolomites and limestones, both in general highly cherty and at
places bituminous giving fetid smell on breaking. The exposures of these are observed towards the
margin of the area occupied by the rocks of the Nagaur series, but nowhere the contact between the
rocks comprising the two series is exposed. Possibly these dolomites and limestones unconformably
underlie the rocks of the Nagaur series or alternatively the two have a faulted contact. Except to the
east near Rol Qazian and Deh, the dolomites and limestones are highly folded, with characteristic
outcrops of pitching anticlinal hills among the sand covered areas and sand dunes.

These rocks behave differently in different portions; to the south-west near Bhakrod, the
strike is predominently N-S to NNW-SSE, whereas to the north of Alai and Makori, they Show ENE-
WSW to E-W trend. Towards the eastern side from Mundwa to Rol Qazian and Deh, they trend NNE-
SSW to N-S. The intensity of folding is high near Bhakrod and north of Alai, but gradually diminishes
towards the east. The exposures between Deh, Rol Qazian and Mundwa are almost continuous,
 GSI-CHQ-409

comprising mostly of chertly limestones and dolomites showing gentle dips. Intermittent exposures of
dolomites occasionally associated with limestones are observed to the north of Alai and Makori;
further eastwards they seem to disappear. Similarly in the Bhakrod area, the dolomite-limestone
exposures are discontinuous, occurring as isolated hills and knolls.

Nagaur Series: The rocks of the Nagaur series occupy the central portion of the area under
reference and show a general N-S trend with undulating dips. The amount of dip is variable, usually
2°-4° to 10°-15°, but at times dips up to 25° have been observed. Full section representing the
complete Series is nowhere exposed. Only the upper horizons consisting mostly of sandstones,
siltstones, shales and limestones are seen exposed at a number of places and in some quarries, ponds
etc. The lower horizons comprising siltstones, claystones and clays, gypsum beds, dolomites and
limestones are nowhere exposed and the information as regards these have been obtained, either
fromthe wells or the bore holes.

Red, yellow to grey, porous, soft and at times fragile sandstones showing current bedding and
ripple marks, have been observed to occur immediately to the north and south of the dolomite-
limestone outcrops north of Ali, Makori etc. Their contact with the dolomite-limestone is nowhere
exposed, and as such their inter-relation is not clear. These sandstones seem to have been deposited
unconformably over the highly folded rocks of the Rol Qazian-Bhakrod Series. Their relation in
respect to the typical rocks of the Nagaur Series is also a matter of conjecture, since nowhere the two
have been found to be exposed showing contact or in close proximity of each other. It is possible that
these sandstones may also be lying unconformably over the rocks of the Nagaur Series.

A traverse from west to east, i.e., from Raidhanu to Nagpaur and Chanaur, gives a fair ideas
of the rocks which in all probability constitute the upper horizons of the Nagaur Series. Pink to
whitish pink, compact, siliceous limestones occur as small patches among the medium to coarse
grained sandstones and micaceous siltstones between Raidhanu and Josiad. Sandstones interbedded
with micaceous siltstones are also observed between Josiad and Basni Bailima. The sandstones
exposed here are occasionally calcerous and highly compacted showing well developed joints.
Around Nagaur the sandstones are usually medium to coarse garined and occasionally gritty and
pebbly, containing quartz, chert and pellets of clays, and show irregular joints, the planes of which are
filled with whitish calcareous material or calcite. In general, these rocks show varied colours red, pink
purple-red, grey, and occasionally show mottled appearance, Ripple marks and current bedding are
common features.
 GSI-CHQ-409

Underlying these, as seen in the well and bore hole sections, are siltstones, claystones and
clays. These are current bedded, red to dark red, chocolate brown and purple red in colour, and
invariably show mottling and leaching. The siltstones are usually micaceous and occasionally
calcareous. Somestimes stringers and veins of fibrous gypsum have been observed to traverse these
rocks, particularly in the portion immediately above the main gypsum bed.

Gypsum occurs interbedded with claystones, dolomites and limestones (Plate II). It has been
observed to occur in three forms-granular, flaky and fibrous. The former two varieties constitute the
main and subsidiary beds, whereas the latter occurs only as streaks, stringers and veins varying in
thickness from a fraction of an inch to a few inches and traversing all the rocks, viz., claystones,
siltstones, dolomites, limestones and even the beds of gypsum. The granular and the flaky types are
grey, grey-white and white in colour; the latter appears to be predominant, and often show radial
arrangement forming Spherulites. The fibrous variety is grey, grey-white, milky-white to pale pink in
colour, translucent and sometimes show waxy and silky lustre. The firbous gypsum is pure, but the
other two types are invariably, intercalated with clayey, marly and dolomitic material. Sometimes,
particularly in the lower horizons, the gypsum bands show current bedding, with alternating gypsum
and dolomite bands which are inclined at an angle varying up to about 20°.

The dolomites and limestones are dark grey, greyish, grey-white to pinkish white in colour,
compact and hard, fine to coarsely crystalline, and at times highly leached and earthly, with numerous
cracks and cavities filled with secondary calcite. In contrast to the dolomites and limestones of Rol
Qazin-Bhakrod Series, the borehole dolomites and lime stones are usually gypseous, and contain
stringers of fibrous gypsum traversing them. These invariably show current-bedding and at times give
fetid smell on breaking due to the presence of bitumenous material.

Heavy mineral studies were undertaken for the purpose of correlation of the small,
discontinuous and widely separated exposures of lithologically similar sandstones in this area The
lack of exposures coupled with the highly rolling nature of the beds even in a vary limited area, render
it difficult to build up a reliable stratigraphic column representing the rocks of the Nagaur Series. As
heavy mineral studies of the samples from the different localities might provide some clue to solve
this difficulty, 14 samples of sandstones were collected from ten different localities and their heavy
mineral assemblege was studied.
 GSI-CHQ-409

The work mainly dealt with the quantitative estimate of various mineral species in the
different samples. On an average about 700 well cleaned heavy mineral grains were counted for each
sample, their respective percentages were calculated and their frequency numbers were obtained.
Using these percentages and frequency numbers, bar-type histograms, range tables and graphical
charts were constructed to study the variations of the different mineral species in the samples from the
different localities.

The heavy minerals found in the samples studied so far comprise, in order of their abundance,
tourmaline (brown, pink, blue-green, grey, greyish green and yellow), zircon (colourless pink and
yellow), rutile (red and yellow), garnet (colourless and pink), epidote, hornblende, anatase, sillimanite
and kyanite. Though some of these heavy minerals like tourmaline, zircon and rutile persist in the
samples from all the localities, their relative abundance has been found to vary a great deal in the
samples from the different localities. For example, zircon and tourmaline, which occur in almost equal
proportion in the Bhagu sandstone, have a very different proportion in the Alai sandstone. Here, in
Alai sandstone, sandstone, while tourmaline forms nearly 83% of the heavy mineral bulk, zircon is
only 15%. Similarly rutile, which forms 12% of the heavy mineral assemblege in the Bhagu sandstone
dwindles to only 2% in the Alai sandstone. Similar differences can from the study of the charts
amongst the sandstones from localities.

Some of the heavy mineral species., which are totally absent in certain localities, are found to
occur in the samples from other localities, e.g., Mundwa sandstone is represented only by zircon,
tourmaline and rutile, while in the Nagaur sandstone besides these three minerals, anatase and garnet
make their appearance thus differentiating it from the Mundwa sandstone. Similar differences can be
seen amongst Nagaur, Basni, Kharnal, Pherod and Raidhanu sandstones. While counting grains
different coloured varieties of the important minerals were noted. Variation in their proportions has
also been observed in some of the samples from different localities, viz., pink zircon and tourmaline
and yellow rutile, which occur in appreciable proportions in Gogolao sandstone, become less in
Nagaur sandstone. While in Gogolao sandstone both red and yellow rutile is present, Nagaur
sandstone is represented only by the red variety.

It is evident that the number of samples analysed was too small to arrive at any definite
conclusion. However from the study of the samples so far analysed following conclusions can
tentatively be arrived at:-
 GSI-CHQ-409

1) The Pherod and Raidhanu sandstones are different from and possibly younger than the
sandstones occurring at other localities. This is indicated by the presence in these sandstones of
mineral species which are comparatively less stable.

2) From the points discussed above it is indicated that the sandstones occurring at different
localities, though lithologically simulates one another, are not the same, but are different members of
one or more formations.

3) In general, the overwhelming abundance of minerals like zircon, tourmaline and rutile in
all the samples, with occasional appearance of anatase, appears to point to an acid igneous
provenance. However, small proportion of the sediments might have had its origin from the
metamorphic sources, as is indicated by the presence of very small percentages of minerals like
sillimanite, kyanite, epidote and garnet in some of the samples.

Sand, sandstones etc.: The desert sand almost forms a regular capping throughout the area, the
thickness of it varying from few inches to about 60 feet or more; in sand dune covered portions, the
thickness may be many times than the mantles on the plane grounds. The sand in general is medium to
fine grained, pale brown, to pale yellow in colour, mostly consisting of quartz grains and some dark
coloured minerals like magnetite, tourmaline, hornblende, biotite etc.

The gypsite occurs in the form of small-pockets, forming almost horizontal beds of two to six
feet in thickness, between layers of sand. There are several gypsite quarries near Bhadwasi, Pilanwasi,
Dhakuria etc. from where gypsite is being worked from below a foot or two of sand.

'Kankar' has been found to form a thin mantle at some places, particularly in regions where
caloareous sandstones occur not very much below the surface. White porous, highly calcareous
sandstone and sandy clay, presumably of recent origin, have been found to occur in shallow basins as
seen in Satheran, Untwalia, etc.
 GSI-CHQ-409

Regional geologic set up: The exact stratigraphic position of the gypsiferous and the
associated formations of the Nagaur area in relation to the larger exposures of the Vindhyan rocks
described by W.T. Blanford1, C.A. Hacket2, T.D. La Touche3 and A.M.Heron4, is yet uncertain
Further detailed mapping and drilling are necessary to resolve some problems before precise
correlation can be attained. According to the above workers, the vindhyan rocks of Western Rajasthan
which are exposed as scattered flat patches and much interrupted by a alluvium, comprise cherty
limestone and sandstone, the former resting of the latter which in turn, overlies Malani rhyolites,
Aravalli slates and Jalor (Idar) granite and other intrusives. In the Nagaur area, no sandstone horizon
has yet been definitely recorded at the base of the highly folded cherty dolomite and limestone
forming the Rol Qazian-Bhakrod Series which probably represent the cherty lime stone horizon noted
above. Deeper drilling and preferably drilling through the cherty dolomite and limestone will settle
whether the rocks of the Nagaur Series overlie them or rest below the sandstone horizon described
from the south. From the evidences available at present, the most important of which appears to be the
absence of argillaceous sediments in the exposures described from the areas correlation can be
attained. According to the above workers, the Vindhyan rocks of Western Rajasthan which are
exposed as scattered flat patches and much interrupted by a alluvium, comprise cherty limestone and
sandstone, the former resting on the latter which, in turn, overlies Malani rhyolites, Aravalli slates and
Jalor (Idar) granite and other intrusives. In the Nagaur area, no sandstone horizon has yet been
definitely recorded at the base of the highly folded cherty dolomite and in the south, it is assumed that
the rocks of the Nagaur Series represent later sediments in a basin or basins enclosed within the arcs
of the Vindhyan rocks of Western Rajasthan.

1. Rec. Geol. Surv. Ind., Vol. X, pt 1, pp. 10-21 (1877)

2. Rec. Geol. Surv. Ind., Vol. XIV, pt 4, pp. 279-303 (1881)

3. Mem. Geol. Surv. Ind., Vol. XXXV, pt 1, (1902)

4. Rec. Geol. Surv. Ind., Vol. LXV, pt 4, pp. 457-489 (1932).

 GSI-CHQ-409

9
III. GYPSUM DEPOSITS
As has been discussed earlier, the knowledge of the occurrence of gypsum beds in this area
has been obtained from the data supplied by the bore holes. On the basin of the data available so far, it
appears that possibly there were two basins where the main gypsum bed was deposited, viz., the
northern one around Dhakuria and the southern around Nagaur town (Plate I). This is indicated by the
total absence of the main gypsum bed in the intervening area covered by bore-holes 11 NR, 12HR and
13NR. Gypsum occurs in several horizons, but the top main bed is the thickest and has been
considered in detail (Plates II-VII), the remaining subsidiary beds have not been taken into account
for the time being. The main bed shows variation, from hole to hole in thickness and in composition;
even in one hole the same bed shows variation in composition from top to bottom. In some portion the
main gypsum bed may contain intercalations and patches of clay and dolomite, whereas it may be free
from all these in other portions. Occasionally thin interbands of gypseous claystones and gypseous
dolomite or limestone occur in the main bed.

In the northern area, the main gypsum bed has been observed in the bore holes 4NR, 5NR,
7NR, 9NR, 10NR, 22NR, 24NR and 25NR. Except in the bore holes 44NR and 7NR where the
thickness of the bed is 22'6" and 16'4" respectively, it measures more than 30 feet (37'6" in 22 NR). It
would thus appear that this area bounded by the above holes, is traversed by the same bed of gypsum,
occurring in the form of large lenticular body, or alternately there may be two such bodies, one to the
east covered by bore holes 4NR, 5NR, 7NR, 9NR and 10NR, and the other in the west covered by the
hore holes 22NR, 23NR, 24NR, and 25NR. The lenticular nature of the gypsum bed seems plausible
in view of the fact that the thickness of 31 ft. to 37 ft. which it attains in the bore holes 22NR, 24NR
and 25NR diminishes rapidly towards north and west and in bore holes 26NR and 21NR it is
completely missing.

The structure contour map (Plate VIII) prepared from the existing bore hole data lends
support to the idea that there is possibly one continuous gypseous horizon which has been folded into
a broad syncline pitching to the north east. The data based on sparsely located bore holes however, are
quite insufficient to definitely ascertain the role of structural features in controlling the nature and
extent of the deposit. Multiple and impersistent beds of gypsum may give almost the same picture as
has been obtained from the structure contour map.
 GSI-CHQ-409

10
In the southern areas, the main gypsum bed appears to occur at a comparatively greater depth
from the surface, i.e., below 350 feet and has been encountered in bore holes 15NR, 16NR, 18NR,
20NR and 27NR; the other holes i.e., 1NR, 2NR, 3NR, 14NR, 17NR and 19NR did not show the
presence of the main beds, but have shown other subsidiary beds. In the railway bore hole located
about half mile S.S.E. of 18M, about 40 ft. thick bed of gypsum (of almost same thickness as met with
in 18HR) was reported to occur below 388 feet. Recently a bore hole (for putting tube well) was
drilled. by the Underground Water Board of the Government of Rajasthan, near Manasar and the main
gypsum bed in this hole has been reported to occur below 367 ft. having a thickness of about 40 ft.
Several other beds of gypsum have also been reported in this hole. Those below 700 ft. are of special
interest as none of G.S.I.'s holes were drilled beyond this depth.

It would appear that the N-S extent of the gypsum bed in the southern area is quite
considerable, possibly from bore hole 16NR in the north to Manasar tube well in the south. The E-W
extent of gypsum in this zone seems to be confined to a narrow strip as indicated by the barren holes
1NR, 2NR, 17NR and 19NR. The thickness of gypsum appears to increase southwards from 17'6" in
16NR to 26'4" in 15 NR and then to 41'0" in 18NR and almost the same in the Railway bore hole, but
decreases again towards bore hole 27NR.

Quality of gypsum: The results of chemical analyses of the samples of gypsum from the main bed
from some of the bore holes are given in Table A. The results of samples of gypsum of the remaining
bore holes are awaited. The amount of calculated gypsum varies from hole to hole, and also from top
to bottom of the same bed in a hole. However, the major portion of the main bed (more than 80% of
it) in each case has shown calculated gypsum up to 80% or more except in bore holes 16NR, 24NR
and 25NR. In the case of 5NR, the major portion between 339'9" and 358'1" gave 84.49% of
calculated gypsum, and the remaining portion is clayey and dolomitic. In bore hole 7NR, the complete
bed has shown 82, 06% of calculated gypsum. In the case of 91NR, the major portion between 229'9"
and 255'3" has shown calculated gypsum as 84.47%, and the top portion between 225'0" and 229'9"
gave calculated gypsum between 88.92% and 91.65%. In the bore hole 10NR, the portion of the bed
between 254'2" and 259'8" is siliceous showing about 11% insolubles and calculated gypsum between
70.14% and 79.22% the major portion between 259'8" and 280'0" shows calculated gypsum as 86'73",
and the remaining portion 89'25%. The amount of calculated gypsum in the case of main bed in bore
hole 15NR varies between 85.13% and 94.32%, In 16NR, portion between 493'6" and 496' is clayey,
and the rest shows calculated gypsum between 78.58% and 90.93%. Excepting clayey portions
between 376'4" and 378'0" and again between 387'6"and 390'0", calculated gypsum content in bore
hole 18NR ranges from 79.89% to 92.98%. In case of 22NR, the major portion between 185'0" and
217'8" contains calcium sulphate between 85.46% and 95.13%. The major portion of the main bed in
 GSI-CHQ-409

11

bore hole 24NR shown calculated gypsum ranging from 76.02% to 92.82%, whereas about 75% of
the main bed from bore hole 25NR has shown calculated gypsum between 68.88% and 89.25%.
Evidently the main beds in 24NR and 25NR. are intercalated with clayey and dolometic materials.

The amount of insolubles has been found to be variable, but usually less than 10% except in
few cases where it may range up to 18%. The insolubles and percentages of MgO tend to increase
with the increase of clay and dolomite fractions. At times there are distinct interbands of gypseous
clays and gypseous dolomites, as between 358'1" and 360'0" in bore hole 5NR.

It would thus appear that the main bed of gypsum is of a fairly good quality, and can be used
for making fertilisers, and in the cement and other chemical industries. The quality can be further
improved by beneficiation, by sorting out inferior clayey and dolomitic portions which forms a very
minor percentage.

The results of chemical analyses of the samples of the subsidiary gypsum beds from some of
the bore holes, are given in Table B. It will appear that most of the beds are of a fairly good quality,
showing calculated gypsum usually above 80%, and in a few cases even above 95%.

Reserves: For the calculation of the reserves of gypsum, only the main bed of gypsum has been
considered at this stage, and the other subsidiary beds have been omitted from discussion. As has
already been emphasised earlier, further exploratory work is necessary in order to assess the total
reserves of gypsum in this area. However, even the present available data indicate the presence of a
large reserve of gypsum amounting to at least some hundreds of million tons.

In view of the consistence of the main bed over a wide extent, the area within a radius of 2500
ft. around each hole can reasonably be assumed to contain the main gypsum bed met with in that
particular hole in order to evaluate the reserves. For the purpose of calculation, the gypsum bed may
also be assumed to maintain a uniform thickness within this portion, i.e., in an area measuring 3.14 ×
2500 × 2500 or say approximately 19.5 million square feet. Now taking 20 cubic feet of gypsum to
make a ton, the reserves are calculated hole-wise as shown, below:-
 GSI-CHQ-409

12
1. 4NR 19.5 × 22.5 438.75 m. cft.

2. 5NR 19.5 × 31.0 604.50

,, (excluding 2 ft. of inferior portions)
3. 7NR 19.5 × 16.3 317.85 ,,

4. 9NR 19.5 × 30.25 589.87 ,,

5. 10NR 19.5 × 30.00 585.00 ,, (excluding 2'6" ft. of inferior portions)

6. 15NR 19.5 × 24.00 468.00 ,, ,, 2'4" ft. ,, ,, ,,

7. 16NR 19.5 × 15.00 292.50 ,, ,, 2'6" ft. ,, ,, ,,

8. 18NR 19.5 × 35.00 682.50 ,, ,, 7'6" ft. ,, ,, ,,

9. 20NR 19.5 × 20.00 390.00 ,, ,, 4'0" ft. ,, ,, ,,

10. 22NR 19.5 × 33.33 649.93 ,, ,, 4'3" ft. ,, ,, ,,

11. 24NR 19.5 × 27.60 538.20 ,, ,, 3'9" ft. ,, ,, ,,

12. 25NR 19.5 × 24.00 468.00 ,, ,, 7'0" ft. ,, ,, ,,

13. 27NR 19.5 × 16.00 312.00 ,, ,, 4'10" ft. ,, ,, ,,

6337.10 m.cft.

i.e., 6337.10÷20 = 316.85 million tons.

Out of this 107.25 million tons are contained in the southern zone and the remaining in the
northern zone. If the portions around the Railway bore hole and Manasar hole of the Rajasthan
Underground Water Board are taken into account then the above figure will be increased by another
68.25 million tons based on the reported thickness of 40 ft. and 30 ft. of gypsum respectively.
 GSI-CHQ-409

13

Although the data available at present strongly suggest the continuity of the main gypsum
beds in the areas demarcated by drilling, (as shown in Plate I) it is too premature to work out figures
for these areas until same geological problems are resolved satisfactorily by further work in the field
and laboratory. Besides, the boundaries have not yet been completely demarcated. Even the figure of
385 (317+68) m. tons quoted above need to be considered as 'probable' as long as the estimation has
to be based on certain assumptions. That the main gypsum bed persists over an area of 2500 ft. around
each hole and maintains an uniform thickness are still a matter of conjecture as these factors have not
yet been proved even in a single case. However, if further exploration proves that the main gypsum
bed spreads continuously over the two areas noted above then the reserves will be many times the
figure quoted above. If the gypsum beds of 2 ft. or more in thickness, are at least the thicker ones
which measure up to 11 feet, are taken into account, the total reserve will be vary large.

IV. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The sub-surface data so far obtained and discussed in this report, indicate the presence of
many gypsiferous horizons in the sediments of this area, of which the uppermost horizon is
characterised by a single thick bed of gypsum which appears to occur in two separate areas - one
around Dhakuria and the other in the vicinity of Nagaur town.

In the northern area, the thick or main bed varies in thickness from 17 ft. to 38 ft. at a depth
varying from 185 ft. to 327 ft. while in the southern area it varies in thickness from 26 ft. to 41 fit. and
occurs at depths from 360 ft. to 379 ft. from the surface. The beds of the lower horizon which are
mostly associated with carbonate rocks are usually thin, although 7 ft. to 11 ft. thick beds are also
present.

From the point of exploration, the uppermost thick bed is of immediate interest, for which the
probable reserves have been estimated to be of the order of 385 million tons. If further exploration
proves that this bed spreads continuously over each of the separate areas, then the reserves will be
many times the above figure. The reserves for beds of 2 ft. or more in thickness in the lower horizons
will also be very large but they are of no particular significance as most of the seams will not be
workable under normal conditions.

Having successfully proved the existence of gypsum over wide areas around Nagaur, the
investigation is now being directed to collect maximum information on the nature and extent of the
deposits based on the detailed study of the surface and sub-surface geological features. To assess the
actual potentiality of the area and to guide the future exploration work, an accurate sub surface
geology needs to be built up by careful planning of the bore-hole sites and by detailed field and
laboratory studies of the lithological and structural features of the area.
 GSI-CHQ-409

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GEOGRAPHICAL INDEX

Name of village Latitude Longitude

Alai 27°19'20" 73°34'30"

Basni Bailima 27°10'30" 73°38'30"

Bhagu 27°26'00" 73°28'00"

Bhadwasi 27°19'00" 73°40'20"

Bhakrod 27°02'40" 75°35'00"

Chanar 27°12'00" 73°46'00"

Deh 27°18'10" 73°54'20"

Dhakuria 27°19'40" 73°43'40"

Gogolao 27°14'00" 73°39'00"

Josiad 27o11'00" 73°36'00"

Khamal 27°05'00" 73°39'00"

Mundwa 27°03'20" 73°49'20"

Makori 27°21'15" 73°40'10"

Manasar 27°10'49" 73°43'41"

Nagaur 27°12'00" 73°44'30"

Phorod 27°06'00" 73°43'00"

Pilanwasi 27°20'30" 73° 41'00"

Raidhanu 27° 10'33" 73°32'50"

Rol Quazin 27°10'00" 73°56'00"

Sathoran 27O24'00" 73°38'00"

Untwalia 27°24'38" 73°39'31"

Vagu 27°25'08" 73°32'52"

 GSI-CHQ-409

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CO-ORDINATES & R.L. OF BORE HOLES

Bore Hole Nos. Elevation Co-ordinates

Latitude Longitude
1 NR 963.73 Ft. 27°11'45" 73°45'52"
2 NR 945.31 ,, 27°13'25" 73°42'10"
3 NR 973.32 ,, 27°l4'l5" 73°40'27"
4.NR 926.61 ,, 27°19'34" 73°42'55"
5 NR 934.12 ,, 27°20'42" 73°43'57"
6 NR 925.57 ,, 27°22'25" 73°33'32"
7 NR 929.03 ,, 27°20'52" 73°42'27"
9 NR 912.61 ,, 27°19'04" 73°44'09"
10 NR 917.11 ,, 27°l5'05" 73°42'55"
11 NR 932.25 ,, 27°15'09" 73°45'13"
12 NR 936.97 ,, 27°17'05" 73°44'09"
13 NR 928.57 ,, 27°17'06" 73°42'12"
14 NR 942.94 ,, 27°14'57" 73°42'35"
15 NR 960.06 ,, 27°15'25" 73°44'09"
16 NR 954.22 ,, 27°1 6'22" 73°42'55"
17 NR 986.37 ,, 27°13'08" 73°44'42"
18 NR 953.39 ,, 27°l3'05" 73°43'22"
19 NR 955.55 ,, 27°15'12" 73°42'27"
20 NR 965.82 ,, 27°14'19" 73°43'36"
21 NR 943.20 ,, 27°19'27" 73°37'42"
22 NR 920.48 ,, 27°19'27" 73°39'24"
23 NR 919.26 ,, 27°15'05" 73°41'19"
24 NR 920.76 ,, 27°l7'32" 73°41'12"
25 NR 927.12 ,, 27°20'46" 73°41'19"
26 NR 929.29 ,, 27°20'46" 73°39'24"
27 NR 977.27 ,, 27°11"25" 73°43'43"
27 A-NR 964.49 ,, 27°10'50" 73°42'01"
23 NR 964.99 ,, 27°09'19" 73°43'43"
29 NR 930.62 ,, 27°22'03" 73°39'24"
Manasar Tube Well 27°10'50" 73°43'43"
Railway Bore Hole 27°12'55" 73°43'21"
 GSI-CHQ-409

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APPENDIX A
Table A: Showing results of chemical analyses of gypsum cores. (Main bed only)

Calculated R2O3 CaO MgO

S.No. From To Inso. % SO3 Loss Total
gypsum % % %

Bore Hole 5NR

1. 327'0" 334'9" 35.24 6.40 0.61 30.02 1.59 39.65 21.02 99.29
2. 334'9" 353'1" 94.49 3.65 0.15 31.75 1.03 43.95 19.32 100.06
3. 358'1" 359'0" 49.32 20.92 2.00 22.72 3.40 22.94 21.77 93.75
4. 359'0" 360'0" 71.33 9.21 1.40 27.76 5.43 33.18 23.22 100.20

Bore Hole 7NR

5. 273' 3" 290'0" 32.06 5.93 0.30 29.51 2.71 33.17 22.50 99.17
Bore Hole 9NR

225'0" 225'9"
6. 228'0" 228'10" 88.92 8.43 0.27 29.29 1.17 41.36 19.52 100.04
229'4" 229'9"
225' 9"
7. 228'0" 229'4" 91.65 5.93 0.50 30.59 0.38 42.63 19.94 99.97
228'10"
3. 229'9" 225'3" 84.47 7.12 0.43 30.01 1.80 39.29 20.92 99.62

Bore hole 10 NR

9. 251'6" 254'2" 32.13 11.14 Trace 23.10 2.37 38.24 20.40 100.25
10. 254'2" 255'7" 70.14 10.72 0.58 28.27 3.87 33.39 23.11 99.94
11. 255'7" 256'7" 79.22 11.12 Trace 23.24 2.44 36.85 20.79 99.44
12. 56'7" 259'8" 78.12 9.17 ,, 30.16 2.34 37.23 20.42 99.37
13. 259'8" 280'0" 86.73 7.42 ,, 30.74 0.56 41.34 19.22 99.28
14. 280'0" 284'0" 89.25 5.27 0.28 31.17 0.88 42. 51 19.20 99.31
Bore hole 15NR
15. 379'1" 384'0" 85.13 4.94 0.34 30.41 1.72 39.60 22.12 99.13
16. 384'0" 384'0" 90.08 7.24 Trace 29.68 0.45 41 .90 20.00 99.27
17. 385'9" 389'0" 39.10 3.10 ,, 29.27 0.38 41.45 19.83 99.03
18. 339'0" 391'0" 90.58 6.80 ,, 29.97 0.27 42.13 19.90 99.07
19. 391'0" 402'11" 94.32 3.65 ,, 30.98 0.36 43.87 20.34 99.20
20. 402'11" 404'2" 93.48 2.50 ,, 31.71 0.48 43.48 21.00 99.17

Bore hole 16 NR

21. 490'0" 493'6" 73.69 0.73 0.13 32.48 2.72 40.98 16.47
22. 493'6" 496'0" 56.80 8.38 0.13 28.42 7.39 26.38 11.90
23. 496'0" 500'0" 78.55 1.48 1.75 33.17 0.34 46.82 16.44
24. 500'0" 507'6" 90.93 3.32 0.12 31.14 1.03 42.84 19.03
 GSI-CHQ-409

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Calculated R2O3 CaO MgO
S.No. From To Inso. % SO3 Loss Total
gypsum % % %

Bore hole 18 NR
25. 360'0" 370'0" 91.64 5.56 Trace 30.20 0.68 42.76
26. 370'0" 376'4" 90.97 2.80 ,, 31.58 0.83 43.64 19.04
27. 376'4" 373'0" 27.57 10.06 0.14 27.63 13.40 12.88 5.77
28. 373'0" 383'0" 87.85 6.48 0.19 30.06 1.27 41.33 18.26
29. 333'0" 384'0" 92.98 3.71 0.14 31.02 0.63 43.39 19.46
30. 334'0" 387'6" 89.06 4.86 0.14 30.65 0.96 42. 13.64
31. 387'6" 390'0" 48.74 0.86 0.21 35.55 1.30 47.56 10.20
32. 390'0" 391'9" 90.34 6.28 0.13 29.93 0.82 41.90 18.90
33. 391'9" 396'0" 88.73 5.00 0.12 30.65 1.23 42.31 18.57
34. 396'0" 393'0" 86.29 1.37 0.15 32.13 1.63 42.64 18.06
35. 401'0" 402'6" 79.89 2.20 0.34 31 .81 3.03 38.57 16.72

Bore hole 22NR

36. 185'0" 190'6" 95.13 3.28 - 31.52 - 45.31 19.75
37. 190'6" 200'0" 86.31 4.56 - 30.92 - 41.14 13.74
38. 200'0" 204'3" 90.30 3.42 - 31.08 - 43.01 18.75
39. 204'3" 206'4" 85.47 2.36 - 32.60 - 40.70 18.58
40. 203'10" 213'10" 85.46 5.26 - 30.30 - 40.68 18.48
41. 215'6" 217'8" 86.73 4.52 - 31.08 - 41.36 18.79
42. 217'8" 219'0" 70.56 12.56 - 29.48 - 33.66 15.30
43. 2l9'0" 221'3" 78.96 5.32 - 32.36 - 37.62 17.12

Bore hole 24NR

44. 208'0" 216'6" 92.32 5.70 - 30.74 - 44.26 19.21
45. 217'10" 219'0" 56.07 40.04 - 20.88 - 26.71 13.05
46. 219'0" 229'0" 76.02 15.10 - 29.08 - 36.24 18.73
47. 229'0" 234'3" 79.59 13.98 - 29.76 - 37.92 18.67
48. 234'3" 235'7" 86.31 1.66 - 30.92 - 41.14 18.74
49. 235'7" 237'0" 62.37 13.34 - 27.60 - 29.70 13.57
50. 237'0" 239'3" 87.73 5.78 - 29.12 - 41.84 18.22

Bore hole 25NR

51. 238'9" 243'9" 87.36 5.32 - 30.24 - 41.50 18.89
52. 245'0" 245'9½" 74.30 11.74 - 30.76 - 35.42 16.13
53. 246'9½" 248'2½" 68.88 6.44 - 31.84 - 32.78 14.92
54. 248'2½" 256'0" 39.25 3.88 - 31.60 - 42.55 18.57
55. 260'4" 269'9" 82.11 6.80 - 31.48 - 39.16 17.83

* Analysed in the Chemical Laboratory of the Geological Survey of India Analists: - Sarvashri Vishwanathan, K.M.Ghosh, F.K.Gupta, C.
Mitra & M.K. Mazumdar.
 GSI-CHQ-409

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APPENDIX –B
Table B: Showing calculated gypsum percentage of subsidiary gypsum beds.

Sl. No. From To Calculated gypsum %

Bore hole No. 5NR
1. 312'6" 316'0" 73.74
2. 465'0" 467'9" 97.02
Bore hole No. 7NR
3. 216'10" 218'10" 78.64
4. 360'0" 362'1" 97.67
5. 466'0" 472'10" 90.98
6. 481'8" 483'10" 96.25
7. 487'9" 491'5" 85.89
8. 493'0" 495'0" 68.09
Bore hole No. 9NR
9. 316'3" 319'0" 95.09
10. 355'6" 357'9" 89.73
11. 380'6" 384'3" 87.50
12. 402'3" 413'7" 89.16
13. 450'3" 454'9" 93.09
14. 459'0" 461'9" 79.27
15. 462'10" 466'0" 47.21

Bore hole No. 10NR

16. 365'8" 370'0" 90.08
17. 407'0" 409'6" 93.07
18. 426'8" 428'9" 91.81
19. 451'6" 456'6" 89.97
20. 463'0" 471'6" 88.10
21. 476'0" 433'6" 73.08
22. 506'0" 508'3" 86.02
23. 548'9" 551'0" 92.82
24. 584'9" 587'10"
99.56
589'1" 589'8"

25. 605'5" 607'8"

93.80
608'0" 609'1"
Bore hole No. 12NR
26. 417'0" 420'1" 86.55
27. 430'0" 433'0" 94.02
28. 434'11" 438'0" 92.38
29. 456'0" 459'8" 35.26
 GSI-CHQ-409

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Bore hole No. 15NR

30. 447'7" 449'9" 82.28

31. 457'1" 466'6" 81.34
32. 465'0" 470'10" 95.50
33. 520'10" 524'6" 87.20
34. 553'0" 553'6" 92.06
35. 562'9" 564'6" 64.01
36. 564'6" 569'8" 87.10
37. 573'8" 576'0"
36. 576'0" 578'0"
39. 611'9" 613'9" 88.49
40. 623'3" 632'0" 76.18

Appendix C
Table C: Showing main and other subsidiary gypsum beds met
with in bore holes
(Beds of 2 ft. or more in thickness)
Bore-hole No. Total footage drilled. Thickness of Depth from the surface. Remark.
gypsum bed
From To

1 NR 654'0" 3'0" 456'0" 459'0"

2 NR 439'0" 2'6" 355'0" 357'6"

2'6" 405'0" 407'6"
3 NR 451'6" 2'0" 388'0" 390'0"
22'1" 392'4" 394'5"
4 NR 390'0" 22'6" 273'6" 296'0" Main bed
2'6" 263'6" 266'0"
11'0" 325'0" 336'0"
5 NR 471'0" 33'0" 327'0" 360'0" Main bed
3'6" 312'6" 316'0"
2'0" 428'6" 430'6"
2'6" 464'0" 466'6"
6 NR 600'0" ×× ×× ×× Nil
7 NR 510'0" 16'4" 273'8" 290'0" Main bed
2'0" 316'10" 318'10"
2'1" 360'10" 362'1"
6'10" 466'0" 472'10"
3'7" 487'9" 491'4"
9 NR 480'0" 30'3" 225'0" 255'3" Main bed
2'9" 316'3" 319'0"
2'3" 355'6" 357'9"
4'2" 380'6" 384'3"
7'9" 402'3" 410'0"
4'6" 450'3" 454'9"
 GSI-CHQ-409

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Bore-hole No. Total footage drilled Thickness of Depth from the surface Remark
gypsum bed
From To

2'0" 459'9" 461'9"

10 NR 620'0" 32'6" 251'6" 234'0"

4'4" 365'8" 370'0"
2'6" 407'0" 409'6"
2'1" 426'9" 428'10"
5'0" 451'6" 456'6"
3'6" 468'0" 471'6"
7'6" 476'0" 483'6"
2'3" 506'0" 508'3"
2'3" 548'9" 551'0"
3'1" 534'9" 587'10"
2'2" 605'6" 607'8"
11 NR 324'0" ×× ×× ×× Nil
12 NR 559'0" 3'1" 417'0" 420'1"
3'0" 430'0" 433'0"
3'3" 434'10" 438'1"
3'8" 456'0" 459'8"
13 NR 500'0" 3'10" 390'8" 394'6"
3'3" 406'9" 410'0"
3'6" 460'9" 464'3"
14 NR 470'0"
15 MR 646'0" 26'4" 379'1" 405'5" Main bed
2'2" 447'7" 449'9"
3'5" 457'1" 460'6"
5'10" 465'0" 470'10"
3'8" 520'10" 524'6"
5'6" 553'0" 553'6"
6'6" 562'9" 569'3"
2'0" 574'0" 576'0"
7'0" 611'9" 618'9"
8'9" 623'3" 632'0"
16 NR 575'0" 17'6" 490'0" 507'6" Main bed
3'2" 478'0" 481'2"
3'0" 528'4" 531'4"
8'3" 538'0" 546'3"
2'4" 564'6" 566'0"
17 NR 523'0" 2'0" 296'3" 298'3"
5'0" 326'6" 331'6"
3'0" 337'0" 340'0"
3'9" 398'6" 401'3"
6'0" 403'0" 409'0"
3'0" 431'0" 434'0"
 GSI-CHQ-409

21

Bore-hole No. Total footage drilled. Thickness of Depth from the surface. Remark.
gypsum bed
From To

6'0" 439'6" 445'6"

18 NR 701'0" 42'6" 360'0" 402'6" Main bed
2'1" 429'0" 431'1"
6'1" 507'9" 573'10"
3'4" 516'8" 520'0"
9'5" 525'7" 535'0"
7'2" 539'0" 546'2"
2'6" 552'0" 554'6"
6'0" 564'5" 570'5"
2'1" 601'2" 603'3"
5'6" 634'8" 640'11"
2'6' 643'11" 646'5"
19 NR 576'0" 2'6" 371'6" 374'0"
2'10" 406'11" 409'9"
2'6" 445'4" 447'10"
3'8" 450'4" 454'0"
2'10" 504'0" 506'10"
3'3" 554'6" 557'9"
4'7" 564'10" 569'5"
20 NR 465'0" 24'0" 370'0" 394'0" Main bed
2'6" 411'0" 413'6"
2'0" 442'0" 444'0"
21 NR 281'0" ×× ×× ×× Nil
22 NR 280'6" 37'6" 185'0" 222'6" Main bed
23 NR 344'0" 4'6" 237'0" 241'6"
24 NR 261'8" 31'3" 208'0" 239'3" Main bed
25 NR 340'6" 31'0" 238'9" 269'9" Main bed
2'6" 309'4" 311'10"
2'8" 330'5" 333'1"
26 NR 381'0" ×× ×× ×× Only bands less
than 2'
27 NR 505'0" 22'7" 366'0" 388'7" Main bed
2'8" 327'4" 330'0"
29 NR 511'0" ×× ×× ××