Nagaland: Limestone deposits found in Kiphire, Noklak, Phek

Our Reporter
Dimapur, Aug. 11 (EMN): Limestone deposits have been found in Kiphire, Noklak and Phek as per the appraisal work done by the directorate of Geology and Mining, Dimapur.

According to a report from the department, G3 exploration of Shatuza Limestone Block I (Phase-1), at Phek district and G4 investigation of limestone deposits at Choklangan village, Noklak district have been carried out by the directorate of Geology and Mining, Dimapur, during 2021-22.

During the G3 exploration of Shatuza limestone block I (Phase-1) by the Phek district mineral investigation team, deposits were found as an irregularly elongated body on the northern, eastern and south western side with a narrow joint at the centre covering an area of 0.10 sq.km occurring in association with volcanic and chert towards the south eastern side of the deposit.

The limestones found in this area were hard, white to greyish white and crystalline in nature exhibiting solution cavities, it stated. It said that limestone caves, though small in size, were present and rock trend was NE-SW with moderately dipping southeast.

A total of 24 samples of G3 exploration of Shatuza limestone Block I, were analysed at MECL, Nagpur laboratory for indication of chemical grade quality limestone.

Meanwhile, the G4 investigation of limestone was carried out in Choklangan village, Noklak district, with a view to assess the limestone deposits in the area.

Three pockets of limestone deposits were delineated in the north, east and south east of Choklangan village area.

In pocket one, limestone deposits were found north of Maimong village in small pockets comprising boulders, hard and compact, crystalline, and grey to white colour.

In pocket two, limestone deposits were found east of Kongki area and the limestone deposits were also small in size and comprised of boulder, bedded and massive type, hard and compact, crystalline, grey to white colour and occurred above north of Chokla river within the Naga metamorphics.

In pocket three, the deposits were found south-east of Longkenniu area and the limestone deposits were huge in size, comprising boulders, bedded and massive type, hard and compact, crystalline, grey to white colour. The limestone, which had undergone metamorphism, had turned into marble grade at places, it said.

 The directorate of Geology and Mining, Dimapur, also proposed field season programme 2023-24 for G-4 exploration of limestone at Yisisha and adjoining areas, Phek district, G-4 exploration of limestone deposits in Pang and Chipur areas, Noklak district and G-3 exploration (2nd Phase) of Shatuza limestone block I, Phek district.