Study on Groundwater Alteration Due to Surface Mining and Its Mitigation Framework
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63665/vpzaeq57Keywords:
Groundwater contamination, Surface mining, Heavy metal pollution, Acid mine drainage, Mitigation strategies.Abstract
Surface mining operations significantly compromise groundwater quality through multiple contamination pathways including acid mine drainage, heavy metal leaching from overburden dumps, and disruption of natural aquifer systems. This study comprehensively examines groundwater alteration mechanisms in Indian coal mining regions, focusing on physicochemical parameter changes and heavy metal accumulation patterns. The investigation employed systematic sampling protocols across major coalfields including Korba, Singrauli, Jharia, and Talcher, analyzing fourteen heavy metals and key water quality parameters. Results demonstrate that iron, manganese, and aluminum concentrations exceeded Bureau of Indian Standards limits in approximately 59%, 56%, and 48% of groundwater samples respectively near active mining zones. Heavy Metal Pollution Index values ranged from 1.5 to 99.1 across different regions, indicating low to critical contamination levels. Statistical analysis revealed significant seasonal variations with post-monsoon periods showing elevated metal concentrations due to leaching processes. The study proposes an integrated mitigation framework incorporating passive treatment systems, phytoremediation technologies, managed aquifer recharge, and advanced monitoring protocols. Implementation of these strategies can reduce heavy metal concentrations by 65-85% and restore pH levels to acceptable ranges within 18-24 months of intervention.
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References
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