Assessment of Groundwater-Surface Water Interactions in Mining-Impacted Areas of the Sohagpur Coalfield, Shahdol District, Madhya Pradesh

Mittal Anil Kumar, Tiwari Mahendra Kumar

Abstract: The Sohagpur Coalfield in Shahdol District, Madhya Pradesh, is a major coal mining region where intensive extraction activities have significantly altered the natural hydrological balance between groundwater and surface water systems. This study evaluates the extent and nature of groundwater?surface water interactions in mining-affected zones using an integrated approach combining hydrogeochemical analysis, water quality assessment, and hydrological modeling. Primary data were collected from 45 groundwater monitoring wells and 12 surface water bodies distributed across the coalfield, supported by secondary information from relevant government agencies and mining authorities. Key hydrochemical parameters-including pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, sulfate, heavy metals, and coal-related contaminants-were analyzed to assess mining-induced modifications to the regional water regime. Results indicate substantial groundwater depletion in active mining areas, with an average annual water table decline of approximately 2.3 m. Groundwater quality showed notable deterioration, characterized by elevated sulfate concentrations (450?680 mg/L) and heavy metal levels exceeding permissible limits. Surface water bodies exhibited pronounced seasonal variability, with reduced groundwater baseflow contributions, particularly during the post-monsoon period. Comparative analysis revealed a 35-40% reduction in groundwater?surface water exchange rates relative to pre-mining conditions. The study demonstrates that coal mining activities have caused significant hydrological and hydrogeochemical disruptions in the Sohagpur Coalfield. The findings provide critical insights into the mechanisms governing groundwater?surface water interactions in mining landscapes and highlight the urgent need for sustainable water resource management, impact mitigation, and ecological restoration strategies. This research contributes valuable baseline information for informed decision-making in coal mining regions of central India.

Keywords: Groundwater-surface water interaction, coal mining impacts, hydrogeochemistry, water quality assessment, mining hydrology, environmental contamination

How to Cite?: Mittal Anil Kumar, Tiwari Mahendra Kumar, "Assessment of Groundwater-Surface Water Interactions in Mining-Impacted Areas of the Sohagpur Coalfield, Shahdol District, Madhya Pradesh", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 2123-2129, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251225122515, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251225122515