Context: Kishangarh in Rajasthan, known for its marble industry, has gained attention for its unique “snow yard”, a landscape formed by marble slurry waste that visually resembles snow. While this site is promoted as a tourist destination, it raises serious environmental and public health concerns.
Marble Waste: A Growing Environmental and Health Threat
Key Highlights
Kishangarh is home to Asia’s largest marble and granite market. Historically a princely state in central Rajputana under British India, it’s also known for its ancient temples.
The abundance of marble, granite, and other natural stones in Rajasthan has led to the rise of approximately 1,200 marble cutting and processing units in the area.
Waste byproduct from marble processing, known as marble slurry, which contains about 60% water, is dumped across a 200-acre site. The dumping site resembles a snow-covered field due to the buildup of calcium carbonate.
Environmental and Health Impacts of Marble Slurry Dumping
Water Pollution:
A study by the Central University of Rajasthan found that water sources within a 6 km radius of the dumping site have Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels up to 10 times higher than safe limits.Soil Degradation:
Fine marble particles (less than 75 micrometres) settle on farmlands and mix with irrigation water, reducing soil fertility and harming crop yields.Contaminated Groundwater:
Groundwater in the area is unsafe for drinking or irrigation due to the infiltration of fine marble particles.Air Pollution and Health Issues:
Constant exposure to marble dust causes respiratory issues, including chronic cough. Local communities have reported a rise in pollution-related illnesses.
Key Facts About Marble
Composition: Marble is a metamorphic rock made primarily of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃).
Formation: It forms through the metamorphism of limestone under intense heat and pressure.
Leading Producer: Rajasthan is the largest producer of marble in India, with major sites in Makrana, Kishangarh, Rajsamand, and Chittorgarh.
Other States with Deposits: Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh also have notable marble reserves.