Sustainable management of near-field blast-induced ground vibration for elevating limestone extraction potential in...

Blasting is essential for the efficient extraction of limestone. However, blast-induced ground vibrations raise environmental and safety concerns, particularly when mining activities are carried out near settlements, transportation networks, and other critical infrastructure. These vibrations not only pose risks to surface structures but also contribute to ground instability, dust emissions, and potential disturbances to nearby ecosystems. Regulatory restrictions often limit blasting operations in close proximity to sensitive areas, which can constrain resource utilization. It is difficult to obtain blasting permission from within 100 m of structures from regulatory bodies in India. This study reports controlled blasting techniques adopted at the Lanjiberna limestone and dolomite mine to mitigate adverse environmental impacts within 100 m of structures. Results shows that optimized blast design reduced peak particle velocity (PPV) about 30 to 40%, keeping vibration levels within regulatory limits. Overall, the controlled blasting trials at Lanjiberna mine highlight that environmentally sensitive blasting practices can minimize the impacts on surrounding ecosystems while ensuring safe, sustainable and elevated limestone extraction.