ABSTRACT
In the previous chapters, we identified the lacunae of mining and environmental practices based on the mining in the Himalayas and its current status in general. Also, based on case studies of working mines in particular, the environmental concerns have been identified. We highlighted the need to intensify the search for the new ideas. We have seen that the conventional mining practices and manual methods of mineral extraction that are in vogue in the Himalayas are less productive and environmentally unfriendly. Therefore, some new restructured ideas to formulate a development strategy for mining complexes in the fragile Himalayas have been framed. These ideas can be easily integrated with the existing conventional methods to make the mining green and conducive to the environment. To cope up with the mining problems likely to arise from geological uncertainties (during mining), advance prediction of geological conditions is desirable in the Himalayas. In this chapter, taking the various ideas one by one, Cases 4.2.1 through 4.2.8 are described and possibly considered as ‘solutions’ for sustainable mining. These eco-friendly solutions give insights into new and brighter mining concepts that are acceptable and practically feasible for the Himalayas and for the hilly regions in general. Their application areas can be based on engineering judgement, aim of the mining project and the encountered environmental conditions of mine site. The suggested solutions are applicable to various mineral types depending on their economics of extraction, conservation and other related aspects of mining. Tailor-made adjustments need to be made for their implementation and for the selected specific ideas or solutions.
