Fine particulate matter around a coal-mining site in India: Exposure Characterization and Health Risk Assessment

Air pollution from opencast coal mining is a major health concern in India, due to multiple emission sources and complex particle composition. This study examines air quality and health impacts in communities in a mining city in Eastern Maharashtra (India) and finds that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and associated toxic chemical species were higher near the coal roads and residential areas closest to the mine site. Mining and its allied activities contributed to higher pollution loads and residents also showed higher risks of cough, wheezing, asthma, and COPD. The study also found toxic metals in residents’ hair and nails, highlighting higher pollution risk. Targeted interventions (cleaner vehicles and dust control) and regulating specific PM components can protect community health and promote sustainable mining.