Discuss the major environmental impacts of coal mining in India and suggest two appropriate mitigation measures.
Answer
Coal mining leads to land degradation, loss of vegetation, water pollution from acidic runoff, air pollution due to dust and release of greenhouse gases, and health hazards for workers. Mitigation measures include afforestation of mined‑out areas and treatment of mine water to neutralise acidity before discharge, as well as adopting mechanised mining techniques to reduce dust generation.
Step-by-step solution
- Identify land‑related impacts: removal of topsoil, loss of forest cover and landscape alteration.
- Explain water‑related impacts: acidic drainage, contamination of nearby rivers and groundwater.
- Describe air‑related impacts: dust emission, release of carbon dioxide and sulphur gases.
- Mention health impacts on miners and nearby communities caused by dust and toxic gases.
- Propose mitigation measure 1: afforestation and reclamation of mined lands to restore vegetation and prevent erosion.
- Propose mitigation measure 2: treatment of mine water using lime or other neutralising agents before it enters natural water bodies.
- Optionally add a third measure, such as using dust‑suppression systems and mechanised extraction to minimise airborne particles.
Common mistake: Focusing only on economic benefits and omitting specific environmental impacts or mitigation steps.
Concept tested: Environmental impacts of coal mining
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