In Odisha, coal dust is clogging leaves, blocking carbon uptake
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
| Topic: GS3 – Environment |
| Context |
|
Discovery of Coal in Jharsuguda
- Jharsuguda, Odisha, became a coal-rich area after coal deposits were discovered in 1900 during railway construction.
- The first coal mine in the area was established in 1909, and the region now produces over 15 million tonnes of coal annually.
Importance of Coal
- Coal is formed by the decomposition of plants and is vital for electricity generation, iron, steel, cement, and fertilizer industries.
- Around three-fourths of India’s electricity comes from coal-fired power plants, making India the second-largest global coal producer and consumer after China.
Impact of Open-Cast Mining
- Open-cast mining, the dominant method in Jharsuguda, creates more air pollution than underground mining due to dust generation.
- Dust from mining operations spreads up to 30 km, affecting nearby vegetation and air quality.
- Dust clogs the stomata of plants, hampering photosynthesis and temperature regulation.
Use of Satellite Data for Monitoring
- Researchers used data from satellites like Landsat and Sentinel to study dust effects on vegetation.
- Satellite data showed significant impacts of dust on plants’ ability to absorb carbon dioxide.
- Field samples validated the accuracy of satellite estimates.
Environmental Consequences
- Clogged stomata, caused by the settling of dust on plant leaves, hinder the plant’s ability to absorb carbon and release oxygen.
- Increased carbon dioxide in the atmosphere contributes to global warming over time.
- The reduced ability for transpiration causes plants to retain excess heat, leading to overheating.
- Overheated plants struggle to photosynthesize efficiently, causing stunted growth.
- In severe cases, plants may die due to the inability to regulate temperature and carry out essential functions.
- These changes ultimately harm local ecosystems, reducing biodiversity and disrupting the ecological balance.
Recommendations And Conclusion
- Governments can use satellite data to monitor dust pollution and address hotspots.
- Measures like water sprays and dust barriers can reduce mining dust and protect vegetation.
| PYQ: In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for development.” Discuss. (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-1 2017) |
| Practice Question: Discuss the environmental challenges posed by open-cast coal mining, particularly its impact on vegetation. Suggest measures to mitigate these effects using modern technology. (150 Words /10 marks) |
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