Researchers from Turkmenistan have developed a practical method to eliminate the fire at the Darvaza gas crater, which has been burning continuously for over sixty years. The initiative comes from experts at the Natural Gas Research Institute of the state concern Turkmengaz. The crater is located in the central Karakum Desert, where natural gas has been escaping to the surface since the early 1960s.

The proposed strategy involves drilling a new well and redirecting underground gas flows. By intensifying gas extraction from the most productive layers, specialists in Turkmenistan managed to alter subsurface flow dynamics and significantly reduce the volume of gas feeding the crater.

Taking into account geological and hydrodynamic conditions, the researchers recommended drilling an appraisal well at the Chaljulba field. This approach has already demonstrated the possibility of lowering gas pressure and limiting its uncontrolled release toward the crater.

Officially known as the “Glow of Karakum,” the crater measures roughly 60 meters in diameter and about 20 meters in depth. It emerged following the collapse of an exploration well and lies approximately 270 kilometers from Ashgabat. The gas was initially ignited to prevent poisoning risks, but the fire persisted far longer than expected.

The prolonged combustion is attributed to the complex structure of the Zyakli–Darvaza group of gas fields, where multiple interconnected gas-bearing layers are located at depths ranging from 200 to 950 meters. These conditions enable a continuous supply of gas.

Earlier attempts to regain control over the site were unsuccessful due to gas escaping from multiple sources. Currently, nine fields in this region of Turkmenistan are under industrial development, with gas production carried out through 45 wells.

According to experts, implementing the proposed solution will completely eliminate uncontrolled atmospheric emissions, reduce environmental impact, and promote more efficient use of Turkmenistan’s natural gas resources.