Mining impacts on air and water quality in Tonk, Rajasthan: a google earth engine analysis

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Remote Sensing
• Geospatial Analysis

Background:

• Mining activities are known to cause significant environmental disturbances.
• Air and water quality degradation are primary concerns associated with mining operations.
• Quantifying these impacts requires robust analytical tools and comprehensive datasets.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the spatiotemporal environmental impacts of mining in Tonk, Rajasthan.
• To investigate the correlation between mining density and key environmental indicators.
• To assess the effectiveness of Google Earth Engine in monitoring mining-induced pollution.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Google Earth Engine (GEE) for spatiotemporal analysis.
• Analyzed Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) and PM₂.₅ data from Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS).
• Processed Landsat 8/9 Surface Reflectance (SR) data for chlorophyll-a and turbidity, comparing against a 2000-2015 baseline.

Main Results:

• Strong positive correlations found between mining density and AOD (r=0.82), PM₂.₅ (r=0.69), chlorophyll-a (r=0.76), and turbidity (r=0.88).
• Elevated AOD and PM₂.₅ levels were observed near active mining sites, indicating dust emissions.
• Increased water turbidity and chlorophyll-a suggest mining runoff, sedimentation, and eutrophication.

Conclusions:

• Mining activities in Tonk, Rajasthan, are demonstrably degrading air and water quality.
• The study highlights the urgent need for sustainable mining practices and stringent regulatory oversight.
• Enhanced pollution monitoring systems are crucial for mitigating the environmental consequences of mining.