Jharia Coal Fires and the Hidden Climate Cost of Mining

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A new study suggests that underground coal fires in Jharia coalfields, Jharkhand may burn hotter and emit more greenhouse gases than earlier estimated. Researchers found that collapsed underground structures formed by coal fires can release large amounts of COâ‚‚-equivalent emissions into the atmosphere.

  • Jharia coalfield in Jharkhand is one of India’s major coal-producing regions and is known for long-burning underground coal fires.
  • Underground coal fires occur when exposed coal reacts with oxygen, leading to slow combustion or smouldering for decades.
  • Such fires can be triggered by mining operations, cracks, abandoned mines, and exposure of coal seams to air.
  • They emit gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, carbon monoxide, sulphur compounds and particulate matter.
  • These emissions contribute to greenhouse effect, local air pollution, land subsidence and health risks.
  • The study found collapsed structures where underground fires consumed coal and destabilised rocks above them.
  • Heating of rocks can create fused glass-like material, helping scientists estimate fire temperature and intensity.
  • Computer modelling suggested some fires may reach around 4,000°C, higher than earlier assumptions.
  • The estimated warming potential of Jharia fires may be up to 748.72 MT of COâ‚‚-equivalent per year, though estimates depend on assumptions

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Jharia Coal Fires and the Hidden Climate Cost of Mining

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