Optimization of Pollution Load Due to Iron Ore Transportation –A Case Study

The paper approaches the applicability of operational research techniques in transportation of iron ore from multi location mines to single destination beneficiation plant. The mining industry facing environment problems related to transportation are not being adequately addressed by existing research programs. The paper focuses on air quality impacts due to iron ore transportation from mines to destination plant. Also discusses on selection of suitable mode of system for existing site condition and their environmental loads around the periphery of site and along the material conveying path. The research work illustrates the importance of implementation of transportation impact assessment for proposed projects to get clearance from authorities. In this paper, the transportation routes from the consented mines to the destination plant were optimized with the constraints of less pollution and cost effective by the use of optimization software.