Environmental Scenario in Indian Mining Industry - an Overview

Environmental management plan is made an integral part of the Mine plan. For the sake of cost consideration many mine management do not bother much for its implementation in true spirit. The need of hour is to implement it to the maximum possible extent taking help, even financial, from the government and NGOs. Various component of mining affecting environmental balance and environmental measures affecting mining process is discussed side by side. Preventive and curative measures for abatement of pollution is discussed point to point. Mine productivity and ecological balance are affected by mining environment. A critical appraisal has been presented in the light on mining laws and standards. The qualitative impact of the existing environmental scenario on mine productivity has been analysed. Mitigative measures both preventive and curative, to control environmental pollution and mobilise their beneficial influence on productivity have been discussed. Preventive measures have been strongly recommended on cost considerations. It is only when these measures do not work that the curative measures are recommended. It is strongly recommended to oversee the implementation of the EMPs right from the planning stage of the mine for full socio-economic benefits.