Impact Of Coal Mining On Groundwater Quality Of Sohagpur Coalfield, Shahdol District, Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

The Sohagpur coalfield in Shahdol district of Madhya Pradesh represents one of the significant coal mining regions in central India, contributing substantially to the nation's energy requirements. This research investigates the environmental consequences of coal mining activities on groundwater quality in the region, examining both physical and chemical parameters of water quality before and after mining operations. The study employed a comprehensive methodology combining secondary data analysis from government agencies and primary data collection through field surveys and water sampling from 45 locations across the coalfield area. Water quality parameters including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), heavy metals concentration, sulfate levels, and bacterial contamination were analyzed using standard laboratory procedures. The findings reveal significant deterioration in groundwater quality, with TDS levels increasing by 68% in mining-affected areas compared to control regions. Heavy metal concentrations, particularly iron, manganese, and lead, exceeded permissible limits set by the Bureau of Indian Standards in 73% of the sampled locations. The research also documented a substantial decline in groundwater levels, with an average drop of 12.5 meters observed in areas within 2 kilometers of active mining sites. Acid mine drainage emerged as a critical factor contributing to groundwater contamination, with pH levels dropping below acceptable standards in 58% of the tested samples. The study concludes that coal mining activities in Sohagpur coalfield have substantially compromised groundwater quality, necessitating immediate implementation of comprehensive environmental management strategies and stricter regulatory oversight to protect this vital water resource for local communities and ecological systems.