--> Abstract: Structural Traps in the Potwar Basin, Pakistan, by M. Nizamuddin; #90942 (1997).

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Abstract: Structural Traps in the Potwar Basin, Pakistan

NIZAMUDDIN, MOHAMMAD. PAKISTAN PETROLEUM LTD., KARACHI, PAKISTAN

Surface structural and stratigraphic data have been integrated with seismic and well information to understand the mechanics and geometry of the Potwar Basin structural traps. Three representative structures are described briefly as examples of the structural styles.

The Potwar Basin is an active frontal fold and thrust belt, formed as a result of late convergence of the Indian and Eurasian plates. The fold and thrust belt shows a thin skinned north to south deformation style, over a decollement provided by Infracambrian salt overlying crystalline basement of the Indo-Pakistan shield which dips 1 to 4 degrees towards the north.

The structural growth in the region commenced in the Oligocene Epoch. The main deformation occurred during late Pliocene and Pleistocene. An average of about 22 km north to south shortening was measured using cross sections.

The structures within the basin are generally East-West trending and asymmetrical with their steeper limbs on the south. They were formed by compression from the north and were subsequently modified by the flow of the Infracambrian salt and anhydrite. However, the salt flow itself was not responsible for the creation of the structures. The north-dipping major faults which control the anticlinal development are imbrications from the main detachment surface, the Infracambrian Salt Range Formation. The south-dipping faults, which also control many structural traps, are present as secondary pressure-release back-thrust features. They often obscure the evidence of original movement from the north.

About 100 exploration wells have been drilled resulting in 20 hydrocarbon discoveries. Potential exists for more success.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90942©1997 AAPG International Conference and Exhibition, Vienna, Austria