BTC pipeline out of seismic danger

By AzerNews

New studies show that no serious seismic danger is threatening Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) oil pipeline.

The scientists of the Geology Institute of Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) who have been studying the geodynamic situation along BTC oil pipeline said, there is no serious seismic hazard to the pipeline.

The studies were focused on the vertical and horizontal moves of the Earth crust, as well as dynamic features of the ground. During the researches, the scientists used the field leveling and gravimetric measurements. Meanwhile, the seismic stations located along the pipeline recorded four earthquakes.

The studies were supported by the British BP as part of project called "Geodynamic monitoring along BTC pipeline and surrounding areas."

The project is headed by Fakhraddin Gadirov. He is the head of the Geology Institute's Geodynamics and Seismology Department and a correspondent member of ANAS.

Gadirov said some rocks can increase the risk and magnitude of the earthquake. All these studies are aimed at assessing these hazards.

"Based on the studies underway since 2008, we can say that geodynamic activities are underway in the way of pipeline but they pose no serious threats to them," he said.

Gadirov also called for continuing the studies.