Assessment of Infected Soil at Red Sandstone Mines and Impact on Vegetation of Contaminated Soil in Karauli District of Rajasthan

Abstract

The proposed research paper focuses on evaluating the extent of soil contamination and its environmental impacts in the red sandstone mining areas of Karauli. It specifically aims to investigate how mining-induced pollution changes soil structure and affects vegetation health, as well as to explore sustainable methods of remediation and recovery. The main objective of this study is to assess the degree of soil contamination near red sandstone quarries and to determine how these contaminants – especially heavy metals and toxic substances – affect the composition, diversity and vitality of local vegetation. Furthermore, the research seeks to explore and evaluate viable solutions and removal technologies for soil contaminants, including phytoremediation, soil stabilization and washing methods, appropriate for the climatic and geological conditions of the Karauli region.

The research methodology will adopt a mixed approach combining field surveys, laboratory testing and statistical analysis. Soil and plant samples will be collected from major mine-affected sites Bhauapura-Ratiapura, Kasara, Chobe ki Guwari, Mokanpura-Berda,Bhakariand control sites such as Suroth in Karauli. Laboratory analyzes including Atomic absorption spectroscopy will be conducted to measure heavy metal levels and assess soil quality. The data will then be analyzed statistically to determine the relationship between pollution intensity and vegetation impact. Through this comprehensive methodological framework, the study aims to provide evidence-based insight into the environmental condition of the mining areas in Karauli.

The research is guided by the hypothesis that mining activities in the red sandstone quarries in Karauli have resulted in significant soil contamination with heavy metals and toxins, which has resulted in impaired vegetation health and poses potential risks to human and ecological well-being. This research has great environmental and socio-economic significance. By addressing the ecological consequences of mining, it contributes to the growing discussion about sustainable resource extraction and environmental protection. Soil pollution in Karauli threatens not only the integrity of local ecosystems, but also agricultural productivity and food security for the area's residents. Accumulation of toxic metals in crops and inhalation of dust particles can lead to long-term health problems, underscoring the urgency of scientific intervention and policy reforms. The results of this study are expected to assist in the design of regulatory guidelines and management strategies for sustainable mining, waste management and post-mining land reclamation.