Impact of dust on plants affected by the magnesite mining in the Kumaun region of lesser Himalayas

The research delved into the effects of dust on two prominent plant species, Quercus leucotrichophora and Pinus roxburghii, which were observed in the vicinity of magnesite mines. The study took place within the geographical coordinates of approximately 29° 45’30’’N to 29° 47’30’’N latitude and 79° 44’E to 79° 46’E longitude. Upon analysing the dust’s impact on vegetation, it became evident that there was a reduction in chlorophyll levels in the studied plant species, particularly in their early stages of exposure. Additionally, some variations were observed in the Chlorophyll a (chl a) to chlorophyll b (chl b) ratio. Notably, the thin layer of Magnesite dust covering the soil indirectly influenced vegetation by diminishing soil permeability and elevating alkalinity levels. Consequently, the physicochemical properties of the soil underwent significant alterations.