Dhanbad, known as the “Coal Capital of India,” is facing a severe environmental crisis due to a century-old underground coal fire that is causing the ground to burn, sink, and pollute the air to a level even worse than Delhi, despite the city’s population rapidly increasing, putting residents at grave risk with collapsing houses and toxic fumes.

Key points about Dhanbad’s situation:

  • Burning Ground: For over a hundred years, coal seams beneath Dhanbad have been burning, causing the ground to gradually sink and creating large cracks in the earth’s surface.
  • Extreme Pollution: The burning coal releases toxic fumes into the atmosphere, making Dhanbad one of the most polluted cities in India, surpassing even Delhi in air quality concerns.
  • Structural Damage: Due to the sinking ground, houses and buildings are constantly at risk of collapsing, leading to significant property damage and potential safety hazards.
  • Population Growth Despite Risks: Despite the severe environmental issues, Dhanbad’s population has been rapidly growing, likely due to the continued reliance on coal mining for employment opportunities.

Why is this happening?

  • Poor Mining Practices: Unsustainable coal mining techniques, including improper sealing of abandoned mine shafts, have led to spontaneous combustion of coal underground.
  • Lack of Regulation: Inadequate environmental regulations and monitoring by authorities have allowed the situation to worsen over the years.
  • Economic Dependence: The coal industry provides a primary source of livelihood for many in Dhanbad, making it difficult to push for significant changes to mining practices.

What can be done?

  • Stricter Regulations: Implementing stricter mining regulations to prevent further underground fires and promote responsible coal extraction.
  • Rehabilitation Efforts: Relocating residents from highly affected areas and providing proper compensation.
  • Technology for Fire Control: Utilizing advanced technologies to extinguish underground fires and stabilize the affected areas.
  • Diversification of Economy: Promoting alternative industries to reduce dependence on coal mining and create sustainable economic opportunities for the local population.
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