A proximity based rehabilitation approach for abandoned quarries in rural Sri Lanka

Abstract

Site closure and rehabilitation is seldom practiced in Sri Lankan quarrying industry. Hence, open craters filled with water and garbage, having steep unstable slopes represent most of the abandoned quarry sites, raising public health and safety concerns additionally to unpleasant environments. Traditional rehabilitation methods are rarely applicable for such circumstances due to unique socio-economic conditions and stakeholder aspirations. This study is an assessment on the feasibility of outcrop excavations adjoining the abandoned and isolated quarry sites, to establish relatively flat ground conditions, in rural Sri Lanka. The results reveal possibilities of establishing mega-quarry sites on selected locations in Anuradhapura District to produce large quantities of aggregates and useful land masses for future development while ensuring safe environment for the local communities.