Analysis of floral biodiversity, survival, and growth rate in dump slope rehabilitation of an iron ore mine with jute geotextile.

Abstract

Mining reject dumps are prone to erosion and instability, creating a need for effective rehabilitation solutions. This study explores the application of jute geotextiles for slope stabilization and floral biodiversity restoration over a 12-year period at an iron ore mine in Maharashtra, India. Through selecting and applying biodegradable jute geotextiles on dump slopes, we assessed the growth and survival of 21 plant species, including Acacia auriculiformis, Casuarina equisetifolia, and various fruit-bearing trees. A total of 17 biodiversity indicators, such as species richness, Shannon diversity, Simpson dominance indices, etc, were used to evaluate ecological balance, revealing a moderate increase in biodiversity and ecosystem resilience over time. The study highlights the benefits of native species in enhancing soil quality and resilience. Key soil parameters, including pH, moisture, and organic carbon, were monitored to study their effects on geotextile biodegradation and plant growth. Our findings indicate that jute geotextiles offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials, degrading within 1-2 years while promoting vegetation, making them ideal for short to medium-term projects. Predictive models developed in this study provide valuable insights for future reclamation projects, reinforcing the environmental benefits of biodegradable materials in mine rehabilitation efforts.