Q 17. Mineral resources are fundamental to the country's economy and these are exploited by mining. Why is mining considered an environmental hazard? Explain the remedial measures required to reduce the environmental hazard due to mining.
(UPSC 2025, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
Theme:
Environmental Impact and Mitigation of Mining
Where in Syllabus:
(Environmental Science)
खनिज संसाधन देश की अर्थव्यवस्था के लिए आधारभूत हैं तथा इनका खनन द्वारा शोषण होता है। खनन को पर्यावरणीय आपदा क्यों समझा जाता है? खनन द्वारा पैदा होने वाली पर्यावरणीय आपदा को कम करने हेतु आवश्यक उपचारात्मक उपायों की व्याख्या कीजिए।
Q 17. Mineral resources are fundamental to the country's economy and these are exploited by mining. Why is mining considered an environmental hazard? Explain the remedial measures required to reduce the environmental hazard due to mining.
(UPSC 2025, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
Theme:
Environmental Impact and Mitigation of Mining
Where in Syllabus:
(Environmental Science)
खनिज संसाधन देश की अर्थव्यवस्था के लिए आधारभूत हैं तथा इनका खनन द्वारा शोषण होता है। खनन को पर्यावरणीय आपदा क्यों समझा जाता है? खनन द्वारा पैदा होने वाली पर्यावरणीय आपदा को कम करने हेतु आवश्यक उपचारात्मक उपायों की व्याख्या कीजिए।
Introduction
Mineral resources are crucial to economic growth, with mining contributing significantly to GDP. However, mining is deemed an environmental hazard due to deforestation, soil erosion, and water contamination. According to Paul Collier, unchecked mining can lead to ecological degradation. Remedial measures include implementing sustainable mining practices, enforcing stricter regulations, and rehabilitating mined areas. The World Bank emphasizes the importance of balancing economic benefits with environmental protection to ensure long-term sustainability.
Environmental Impact and Mitigation of Mining
● Land Degradation:
○ Mining activities lead to the removal of topsoil and vegetation, causing soil erosion and loss of fertile land.
○ Example: In India, coal mining in Jharkhand has led to significant land degradation.
● Water Pollution:
○ Mining operations often result in the contamination of water bodies with heavy metals and toxic chemicals.
○ Example: The Bauxite mining in Odisha has been linked to the pollution of local water sources.
● Air Pollution:
○ Dust and emissions from mining activities contribute to air pollution, affecting local communities and ecosystems.
○ Example: Iron ore mining in Goa has been associated with increased levels of particulate matter in the air.
● Biodiversity Loss:
○ Mining leads to habitat destruction, threatening local flora and fauna.
○ Example: The Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, faces threats from mining activities.
● Health Hazards:
○ Communities near mining sites are exposed to health risks due to polluted air and water.
○ Example: Silicosis is a common disease among workers in the quartz mining industry.
Remedial Measures:
● Reclamation and Rehabilitation:
○ Implementing land reclamation techniques to restore mined areas.
○ Example: The Singrauli coal mines have adopted reclamation practices to restore vegetation.
● Water Management:
○ Treating mining effluents before discharge to prevent water pollution.
○ Example: Use of constructed wetlands for treating mine water in Rajasthan.
● Dust Control Measures:
○ Using water sprays and dust suppressants to reduce air pollution.
○ Example: Dust control systems in the Jharia coalfields.
● Biodiversity Conservation:
○ Creating buffer zones and wildlife corridors to protect ecosystems.
○ Example: Biodiversity management plans in the Kudremukh mining area.
● Community Engagement and Health Programs:
○ Involving local communities in decision-making and providing health facilities.
○ Example: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by mining companies in Chhattisgarh.
● Regulatory Framework:
○ Strengthening environmental regulations and ensuring strict compliance.
○ Example: The National Mineral Policy in India emphasizes sustainable mining practices.
○ Mining activities lead to the removal of topsoil and vegetation, causing soil erosion and loss of fertile land.
○ Example: In India, coal mining in Jharkhand has led to significant land degradation.
● Water Pollution:
○ Mining operations often result in the contamination of water bodies with heavy metals and toxic chemicals.
○ Example: The Bauxite mining in Odisha has been linked to the pollution of local water sources.
● Air Pollution:
○ Dust and emissions from mining activities contribute to air pollution, affecting local communities and ecosystems.
○ Example: Iron ore mining in Goa has been associated with increased levels of particulate matter in the air.
● Biodiversity Loss:
○ Mining leads to habitat destruction, threatening local flora and fauna.
○ Example: The Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, faces threats from mining activities.
● Health Hazards:
○ Communities near mining sites are exposed to health risks due to polluted air and water.
○ Example: Silicosis is a common disease among workers in the quartz mining industry.
Remedial Measures:
● Reclamation and Rehabilitation:
○ Implementing land reclamation techniques to restore mined areas.
○ Example: The Singrauli coal mines have adopted reclamation practices to restore vegetation.
● Water Management:
○ Treating mining effluents before discharge to prevent water pollution.
○ Example: Use of constructed wetlands for treating mine water in Rajasthan.
● Dust Control Measures:
○ Using water sprays and dust suppressants to reduce air pollution.
○ Example: Dust control systems in the Jharia coalfields.
● Biodiversity Conservation:
○ Creating buffer zones and wildlife corridors to protect ecosystems.
○ Example: Biodiversity management plans in the Kudremukh mining area.
● Community Engagement and Health Programs:
○ Involving local communities in decision-making and providing health facilities.
○ Example: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by mining companies in Chhattisgarh.
● Regulatory Framework:
○ Strengthening environmental regulations and ensuring strict compliance.
○ Example: The National Mineral Policy in India emphasizes sustainable mining practices.
Conclusion
Mining, while crucial for economic growth, poses significant environmental hazards such as habitat destruction, water pollution, and soil erosion. To mitigate these impacts, implementing sustainable mining practices is essential. This includes reforestation, using eco-friendly technologies, and enforcing strict regulatory frameworks. As Rachel Carson emphasized, "The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe about us, the less taste we shall have for destruction." A balanced approach ensures resource extraction without compromising ecological integrity.