Impact Analysis of Sanjay Gandhi Thermal Power Station (SGTPS) over the Surrounding Forest Using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques

Abstract

- Dependence on thermal power plants (TPPs) for massive power generation leads to many consequences, such as changes in temperature and increasing pollution levels, which adversely affect human and vegetation health. So, proper maintenance and monitoring of TPPs are crucial, but to accomplish this, the traditional in-situ inspections prove time-consuming, labour-intensive, and financially impractical. This research proposes the application of Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographical Information System (GIS) techniques as powerful tools to mitigate these challenges significantly. This study aims to analyze the impact of the SGTPS and its emitted pollutants on its surrounding forest confined within the two buffer zones by assessing the correlation between various indices (Soil Moisture Index (SMI), Land Surface Temperature (LST), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)), and pollutants (SO 2 , NO x , PM, CO) emitted and changes in forest cover through Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) change detection. The study also seeks to identify the reasons behind the observed variations. Consequently, it aims to offer insightful information that can support evidence-based decision-making and sustainable management techniques for the preservation of the irreplaceable forest ecosystems that border the SGTPS. Despite some observed variations, overall analysis suggests that the studied SGTPS has minimal impact on forest health, likely due to adherence to regulations and pollution mitigation efforts. Similar assessments nationwide could ensure sustainable energy production while meeting environmental standards.