Assessing the Impact of Coal Mining Activities on Ecosystems: A Perspective on Toxic Element Contamination in Korba District, Chhattisgarh

Author: Sanjiv Kumar Rathor, Kiran Thakur, ALS Chandel and Prakash Das Padawar

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Abstract

This study “assessing the impact of coal mining activities on ecosystems: A perspective on toxic element contamination in Korba District, Chhattisgarh” was groundwater quality of the study area during the pre-monsoon period (April, 2021-22) through physico-chemical and heavy metal analyses. Parameters such as electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness, pH, and heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Fe, Hg, and Mo) were evaluated and compared with BIS and WHO standards. Results showed water temperature ranging from 20.63°C to 26.79°C, electrical conductivity (EC) between 396.87 µS/cm and 1916.43 µS/cm, and total dissolved solids (TDS) from 253.14 mg/L to 1226.86 mg/L. The pH values (5.42 to 6.59) revealed acidic conditions in most locations, while total hardness exceeded the BIS limit at 371.45 mg/L in some areas. Heavy metal analysis identified lead levels up to 0.119 mg/L, surpassing the permissible limit of 0.05 mg/L, posing significant health risks. Copper, iron, mercury, and molybdenum remained within acceptable ranges, with localized fluctuations. These findings highlight salinity, mineralization, and acid mine drainage impacts in the area, necessitating water treatment, continuous monitoring, and stricter environmental management to safeguard public health and ensure sustainable groundwater use

Keywords

Groundwater quality, Physico-chemical parameters, Heavy metal, Acid mine drainage, EC and TDS

Conclusion

The study highlights significant spatial variations in groundwater quality within the study area, with several locations exceeding BIS and WHO permissible limits for key parameters. High electrical conductivity, TDS, and total hardness indicate salinity and mineralization issues, while acidic pH levels suggest impacts from acid mine drainage and industrial activities. Heavy metal contamination, particularly elevated lead concentrations, poses health risks, necessitating immediate attention. Although copper, iron, mercury, and molybdenum levels were generally within acceptable limits, localized fluctuations emphasize the need for regular monitoring. These findings underscore the importance of implementing effective water treatment solutions and environmental management strategies to ensure safe and sustainable groundwater use

References

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How to cite this article

Sanjiv Kumar Rathor, Kiran Thakur, ALS Chandel and Prakash Das Padawar (2023). Assessing the Impact of Coal Mining Activities on Ecosystems: A Perspective on Toxic Element Contamination in Korba District, Chhattisgarh. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5a): 798-802.