V.P. Upadhyay, R. K. Mishra, Shahida P. Quazi, V. Saio
The mining generates potentially high adverse impacts on air, water, land, noise, biological and socio-economic environment. The international agencies have given strong emphasis on regulatory framework and environmental impact assessment (EIA), occupational health and safety and the potential social and cultural implications of mine development. Poor quality of data/information becomes the major bottleneck in improving and strengthening the EIA reports which affects the environmental management programmes in and around mining areas. Therefore, there is strong need for improving the EIA reports in eliminating the shortcoming in EIA process. Reclamation of unproductive land arising due to mining activities need scientific approach and technology. The productive, economic and aesthetic value of the land can be restored by allocating enough resources and with continuous efforts. Reclamation programmes in developing countries through Scientific and demonstrative approaches are yet to take concrete shape although abandoned mines and waste areas need much attention in these countries compared to developed nations where the restoration guidelines and enactments are effectively implemented. Regular training and awareness programmes about existing Rules, Regulations and Guidelines relating to mining and environment and compliance are needed for all stakeholders on appraisal, monitoring and compliance including social linkage and impacts. Being the forests rich area, the Odisha region attracts various types of developmental activity with mining in the Centre and all these activities generate environmental pollutants or act as degrading environmental factors. The monitoring results of various mining projects in the Odisha region indicate that we need to put more effort in achieving satisfactory reclamation results by scientifically designing the rehabilitation programme. The ultimate objective is to return the land to its original land use system for sustainable productivity. Creating forest in mined out areas need the support of top soil, proper drainage and species selection which could match with the surrounding natural ecosystem and fulfill the need of wildlife and local human population. The present paper highlights one eco restoration technology demonstrated in Sukinda and Joda areas most similar to rehabilitation programme known in Japan as “Miyawaki Method”. The present paper will discuss the results of a scientifically designed successful rehabilitation methodology for mining areas which acts as a sustainable technology for eco restoration of degraded lands. The technology is economical and can be easily replicated and implemented with the help of local resources. The success of this technology will change the ecological profile of degraded areas in these mining districts of Odisha state.
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