APPLICATION OF REMOTE SENSING AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM IN HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL

摘要

Unplanned exploitation of natural resources has damaged the ecosystems far beyond recognition at several places. Due to increase in population and industrial growth, several environmental problems have emerged including those related to hazardous wastes disposal. Frequently, hazardous waste is disposed in open either in industrial premises itself or outside which often gets washed by rain waters in natural drainage system. Also the toxic pollutants are frequently leached to contaminate ground water aquifers. With available technology it is not possible to eliminate hazardous waste altogether although it can be minimized. Even if we reduce the quantity of hazardous waste substantially it will be necessary to dispose it at some place. Present study explains scientific way to find out optimal site for disposal of such a hazardous waste. The Remote Sensing data after geometric correction and necessary enhancement is used for delineation of Landuse/Landcover of the study area with optimum ground truth. Geographical Information System has capability of carrying out both spatial and non-spatial data analysis. This information along with secondary data on geomorphology, drainage pattern, geological formations, structural defects, slope, soils and settlements is then integrated with appropriate weights assigned, in Geographical Information System environment. The guidelines for the disposal of hazardous waste are used in the GIS environment for appropriate overlay analysis. Through environmental benefit-cost analysis and considering relevant government regulations for handling the waste, optimal locations for the disposal of this hazardous waste can be identified.