Sustainable and Advanced Integrated Approach to Mitigate Groundwater Pollution in Mining and Mineral-Producing Regions

Abstract

The pollution of groundwater in producing mineral areas is one of the most important environmental issues because the activities of mineral production can affect the natural hydrogeology and geochemistry of mineral production areas. Heavy metals, metalloids, sulphates, acidity, dissolved solids and suspended matter can be introduced to aquifers through heavy metal, metalloid, sulphates, acidity, dissolved solids and suspended pollutant contamination that occurs during excavation, tailings disposal, overburden dumping, ore processing, mine-water discharge and weathering of waste rock. This article reviews the significant sources, processes, pathways, impacts, monitoring methods and remediation options for groundwater pollution in the mining industry. Acid mine drainage, tailing seepage, contaminant leaching, fracture-controlled migration, interaction with surface water, and legacy pollution are discussed as important mechanisms of groundwater degradation. It also addresses environmental, agricultural and human health concerns stemming from contaminated groundwater, including through drinking water, irrigation, soil incorporation, crop uptake, livestock exposure and food-chain transfer. An integrated approach of source prevention, monitoring during the season, hydrochemical studies, calculation of pollution indices, GIS mapping, evaluation of health risks and application of treatment at the site is needed to achieve effective control. Remedial measures discussed include: neutralization, chemical precipitation, adsorption, pump-and-treat systems, constructed wetlands, bioremediation, sulfate reducing bacteria, permeable reactive barriers, limestone-based passive systems, and managed aquifer restoration. Preventive mine planning, appropriate remediation, and regulatory enforcement, community awareness, and post-closure surveillance are all vital to sustainable groundwater protection.