No geological investigation could be taken up in 2008-09. No such investigation can be taken up in 2009-10. Owing to lack of funds and technical staff,the department cannot support any project that the Geological Survey of India (GSI) wishes to undertake in Punjab. However,the GSI is requested to undertake geo-mapping of soil in Bathinda,owing to high incidence of cancer cases in the district and investigate the outflow of a black viscous paste in Faridkot on a priority basis. These are the proceedings of a meeting between the Geological Wing of Punjab and the Geological Survey of India held recently. Even as the states list of geological worries is on the rise,the number of geologists in the state is down to two from 22 a decade ago as no fresh recruitment has been made in the last many years. Unlike states rich in mines and minerals,which have a separate mining and geology department,in Punjab the Geological Wing functions under the Department of Industries and Commerce. The departments mining and engineering wing,which takes up field investigations,however,has no staff and funds to attend to even the most pressing concerns of the state,such as spurt in cancer cases in Bathinda. The department has now sought the cooperation of the GSI to investigate the scourge of the dreaded disease in Bathinda. Stating that 733 patients have been registered with the district hospital during the last three years and the actual number can be much higher,it has asked the GSI to undertake geochemical mapping of the area to discover the constituents in the soil that causes cancer. The GSI undertakes such studies as part of National Programme of Geochemical Mapping to prepare a database for its application in mineral exploration,agro forestry,health and environment. The study of soil constituents will help the state understand the rising incidence of cancer in the district,says Punjab Industries Director V K Janjua. The state has also asked the GSI to investigate a strange geological phenomenon that has come to light in Faridkot district. Outflow of a black viscous paste was reported during the boring of a water hand-pump at a house in the district. The incident has set alarm bells ringing as such composition of heavy metals and minerals,at a depth of just 60 feet,is unprecedented in the state. The area where boring was done had to be closed because of the discharge of black paste. Such composition can only be explained at a depth of 1,000 to 2,000 feet. Though it appears to be a mixture of the residue of petroleum products,it is a strange phenomenon for the state and needs to be investigated, said senior Punjab geologist H S Marwah.
