In situ stress measurements using hydraulic fracturing method

Abstract

The first in situ stress measurements in India were carried out in 176 m deep borehole by employing deep-hole wireline hydraulic fracturing equipment. The results reveal that the direction of maximum compression is oriented at N 35° E, and the existence of high-near-surface horizontal stresses compared with the overburden pressure. This can be attributed to the continuing convergence of Indian and Eurasian plates. Earthquakes experienced near Hyderabad could be due to refracturing of some NNE or NE trending mineralized fractures which persistently occur in the area, as these fractures are critically oriented with respect to the present-day stress field. © 1986 Indian Academy of Sciences.