Impact of Mining and Allied Activities on Air Quality of a Mega Coal Mining Zone in India

ABSTRACT This study investigates the spatial distribution of air pollutants, specifically Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), PM 10 , and PM 2.5 , in the vicinity of coal mines and their associated operations. A total of 10 distinct sampling locations were systematically selected to analyze the variability in pollutants’ concentrations. The findings of the study revealed elevated concentrations of SPM at specific locations, with the highest levels observed at the Coal Stock Yard (645 µg/m 3 ), near Siding 1&2 (425 µg/m 3 ), South Balanda (424 µg/m 3 ), and near Siding 3&4 and 5&6 (418 µg/m 3 ). The PM 10 concentrations exhibited showed a similar pattern, with notably high levels recorded at the Coal Stock Yard (430 µg/m 3 ), near Siding 1&2 (290 µg/m 3 ), near Siding 3&4 and 5&6 (284 µg/m 3 ), and South Balanda (249 µg/m 3 ). However, the distribution of PM 2.5 displayed a distinct pattern compared to SPM and PM 10 , indicating differential dispersion mechanisms for finer particulates. The SPM concentrations exceeded the 24‐h average limits (600 µg/m 3 ) set by the Indian National Air Quality Standards for coal mine regions with the following frequencies: 75% at the Coal Stock Yard, 16% at South Balanda, 12% near Siding 1&2, and 8% near Siding 3&4 and 5&6. Similarly, PM 10 concentrations surpassed the prescribed 24‐h average limit (300 µg/m 3 ) with a frequency of 88% at the Coal Stock Yard, 37% near Siding 1&2, 25% at South Balanda, and 20% near Siding 3&4 and 5&6. A comprehensive AERMOD‐based assessment of air quality parameters revealed coal mining activities, vehicular movements, and the transportation of overburden and coal as the primary contributors to the observed pollutant levels. The model projected maximum concentrations of 999 µg/m 3 from all coal mining activities, with transportation activities alone contributing up to 984 µg/m 3 . Overall, the findings of this study highlight the urgent need for targeted mitigation strategies to improve air quality in coal mining regions.