Subject: Environment and Ecology

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) serves as a crucial environmental management tool that evaluates the potential impacts of developmental projects. The assessment of coal-fired thermal power plants at pitheads is particularly significant given their direct environmental implications.

Environmental Impacts of Pithead Thermal Plants

Air Quality Impacts

• Sulfur Dioxide Emissions: Coal-fired plants emitted 4,327 kilotonnes of SO₂ during 2022-23, with state sector contributing 36% of total emissions.
• Particulate Matter: These plants released 277 kilotonnes of PM during the same period, affecting local air quality and respiratory health.
• Fly Ash Generation: The combustion process produces significant quantities of fly ash, requiring proper disposal and management systems.

Water-related Impacts

• Thermal Pollution: Discharge of heated water affects aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity in nearby water bodies.
• Groundwater Depletion: Extensive water requirements for cooling systems strain local water resources.
• Water Contamination: Heavy metals and toxic substances from coal washing and ash ponds can contaminate groundwater.

Land Use Changes

• Landscape Alteration: Open-cast mining and plant infrastructure lead to permanent changes in land topography.
• Soil Degradation: Coal dust and ash deposition affect soil quality and agricultural productivity.
• Forest Fragmentation: Construction of power plants often results in deforestation and habitat loss.

Ecological Impacts

• Biodiversity Loss: Habitat destruction affects local flora and fauna populations.
• Ecosystem Services: Disruption of natural processes like pollination and water regulation.
• Microclimate Changes: Local temperature variations due to heat island effect.

Socio-economic Impacts

• Public Health: Increased respiratory ailments and other health issues in surrounding communities.
• Agricultural Productivity: Reduced crop yields due to air and soil pollution.
• Livelihood Changes: Displacement of local communities and changes in traditional occupations.

The implementation of Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) systems has shown promising results in emission reduction, demonstrating the importance of technological interventions in mitigating environmental impacts. The way forward lies in adopting cleaner technologies, strict compliance with environmental standards, and regular monitoring through robust EIA mechanisms.