Borehole Drilling: An Effective Water Solution in Nigeria

Nigeria is currently facing water stress due to limited water source, ageing infrastructure, and climate change. The combination of these factors has led the country to experience a 20% reduction in available water per capita per day. In recent years, drilling companies have emerged as a viable solution for communities with substandard water access. These businesses specialize in drilling specific wells known as boreholes that reach underground aquifers—the source of drinking water in areas above ground. However, while these solutions may be an effective option for many communities in need of safe drinking water, they are not always the best choice. To help you determine if borehole drilling is right for you, we’ve included helpful information below.

What is Borehole Drilling?

Borehole drilling is the process of drilling a large-diameter, water-tight hole into an aquifer. The water-tight walls of the hole are designed to keep groundwater inside the aquifer and separate from the upper layers of soil and rock. Borehole drilling is typically done using a drill rig, which consists of a rotating motor, conveyor belt, a hydraulic oil pump, and a rotating drill bit. The motor powers the rotation of the drill bit, which is located at the bottom of the hole. The bit is made of hard materials that can effectively cut through soft sedimentary rocks found in aquifers. In order to keep the hole watertight, the walls are coated with bentonite or another type of sealant.

How Does it Work?

Drilling a borehole to access groundwater is a one-time investment that will last for generations. This is because boreholes are drilled deep into the earth until they reach the underground aquifers that have been consistently filled with water since the earth’s formation. Aquifers are water-rich underground reservoirs that have been in continuous use for millions of years. They are non-renewable sources that refill themselves very slowly over time. Aquifers are rare and are not found in all regions. They are generally found in places with high rainfalls, such as deltas or river valleys. As water is pumped from a borehole, it leaves behind an empty space that is filled by ground water. This process continues as long as water is pumped from the borehole. Drilled boreholes can be used for many water-related applications including irrigation, livestock, industry, and urban use.

Why Is Borehole Drilling Effective?

Boreholes are effective because they are drilled deep enough to reach groundwater. This water source can be used to supply drinking water as it is less likely to host pathogens. Additionally, groundwater is less likely to evaporate or become contaminated. Drilled boreholes are also efficient in that they have a larger diameter than a hand-dug well. This provides enough water to meet people’s daily needs.

When Should You Not Use Borehole Drilling?

If you live in an area where aquifers are unusually shallow, borehole drilling may not be productive. Aquifers can be up to 10,000 feet deep, so you’ll need a very long and wide borehole to reach groundwater. You’ll also need a very powerful pump to bring the water up to the surface. To determine if your aquifers are unusually shallow, consider measuring the elevation of your ground water. You can do this by drilling a hand-dug well. If your measurement is above the elevation of your aquifers, you may not want to invest in borehole drilling. However, it is important to note that ground water levels can fluctuate. Drilling a borehole in an area with shallow aquifers may be futile because the water will likely be too shallow to reach by the time you’re done drilling.

Who Can Help You With Borehole Drilling?

Borehole drilling companies are skilled at drilling boreholes in areas where aquifers are deep. If you have shallow aquifers, you can hire a borehole drilling company to re-depth your aquifers. Drilling companies can use a range of drilling techniques to increase the effectiveness of a borehole. These include drilling in sections, installing a blowout preventer, and using a drilling lubricant. The depth and diameter of your borehole will determine the amount of water you can access. Drilling companies can also assist you in financing your borehole through government grants and loans.

The Bottom Line

Borehole drilling is an effective solution for communities with substandard water access. It is done by drilling a large-diameter hole deep into an aquifer where groundwater is present. This water can be accessed through a hand-dug well or a drilled borehole. Borehole drilling is a one-time investment that will last for generations. It is effective because it provides a large volume of water from an underground source that is less likely to host pathogens and is less likely to evaporate or become contaminated. If you live in an area that has shallow aquifers, you may want to consider other water solutions. However, if your aquifers are deep and groundwater is present, borehole drilling may be the solution you’ve been looking for.