ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION AND HUMAN HEALTH IMPACTS OF LIMESTONE MINING USING REMOTE SENSING AND GIS TECHNIQUES

Mining Engineering

Limestone mining contributes significantly to industrial growth but also creates adverse environmental and health impacts, particularly in semi-arid regions where fragile ecosystems prevail. This study evaluates the extent of land degradation and human health risks in mining-dominated areas using Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques combined with field-based surveys. Land-use/land-cover (LULC) classification between 2000 and 2020 revealed substantial expansion of mining areas and decline in agricultural and vegetation cover. Field soil sampling demonstrated higher bulk density, increased alkalinity, and reduced organic matter in active mining zones compared to control sites. Household surveys indicated that respiratory illness, eye irritation, and skin problems were more prevalent in mining-affected communities. The findings highlight the dual challenge of environmental degradation and public health vulnerability, emphasizing the need for stricter monitoring, dust mitigation measures, and rehabilitation planning. Remote sensing proved effective in quantifying spatial changes, while health surveys provided critical evidence of socio-ecological consequences.

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