Abstract
Mine spoil characteristics of the dump area and the native soil are analyzed critically to evaluate any deterioration in soil properties. The required level of soil nutrient of mine spoil is less than that of the native soil. Available nutrients (N, P, K), exchangeable cation (Ca, Mg, Na, K) of the native soil suggest that open cast mining changes the soil quality. Other physical properties of the mine spoil such as bulk density, water holding capacity, moisture content are lower than those of native soil. Mining method alters the soil texture from siltyloam to sandy soil, but old mine spoil at Belbad has regenerated from sandy to silty-loam type. There have been no such significant differences in trace metal content in mine spoil and native soil.
Highlights
A blend of quality soil and different climatic parameters favors the growth of plants and agriculture which is considered to be the back-bone of the economy of any country
Open cast excavation of coal deposits involves the removal of overlying soil and rock debris and their storage in overburden dumps change the natural land topography, affect the drainage system and prevent natural succession of plant growth (Bradshaw et al, 1980; De et al, 2002; Wali, 1987)
Sample no BM1 and BS1 represent the mine and native soil respectively of Belbad Colliery, DM1 and DS1 represent those from the Damalia colliery, NM1 and NS1 represent the samples from Nimcha colliery and MM1 and MS1 represent the Mahabir colliery
Summary
A blend of quality soil and different climatic parameters favors the growth of plants and agriculture which is considered to be the back-bone of the economy of any country. Mining soil has high content of rock fragments in comparison to fine earth. These spoils are not suitable for both plant and microbial growth because of low organic matter content, unfavorable pH (Agrawal et al, 1993; Burgharadt, 1993). Open cast excavation of coal deposits involves the removal of overlying soil and rock debris and their storage in overburden dumps change the natural land topography, affect the drainage system and prevent natural succession of plant growth (Bradshaw et al, 1980; De et al, 2002; Wali, 1987). The change in land use in the form of open cast mining affects the local hydrological cycle including ground water.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
