PM2. 5 exposure characterisation around opencast coal mines: leveraging health risk and toxicity assessment

摘要: Opencast coal mining accounts for more than 85% of coal production in India. Heavy transportation and mining activities have been identified as a significant contributor to the emission of fugitive dust and fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) leading to a decline in air quality and negative health impacts within densely populated coal mining regions. PM 2.5-bound species which are not routinely monitored such as elemental carbon (surrogate for diesel particulate matter, a Class I carcinogen), toxic metals and PAHs (poly aromatic hydrocarbons) may pose significant risk to the inhabitants around these areas raising serious health and regulatory concerns.