Environmental impact assessment and environmental management plan - A case study of magnesite and dunite mine, South India

Abstract

The Chalk Hills region of Salem, Tamil Nadu, South India, has been the producer of magnesite of both calcination and refractory grades, for more than a century. Due to the vein type nature of the mineralisation, mining of this white carbonate of magnesium involves employment of men and deployment of heavy earth moving machines. The host rock, dunite, is also being mined as it is a commercially valuable by-product. The mining activity, comprising drilling, blasting (both primary and secondary), loading of waste, transport of over burden and crushing of ore is having considerable impacts on the environment. Dust generation, noise levels and ground vibration were monitored as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Control measures recommended on the basis of findings of EIA are being practiced. Review studies were conducted to gauge the healing effects following the implementation of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP). Implementation of the EMP points towards the sustenance of a clean, safe and congenial working environment in the mine and its precincts.