Environmental Implications of Structural Controls on Lead-Zinc Mineralization in the Zawar Deposits: Analyzing structural controls and their environmental impact on Zawar lead-zinc mineralization

The Zawar lead-zinc deposits, located in the Udaipur District of Rajasthan, India, represent one of the oldest and most significant mining regions in the country. Rich in geological complexity, the region showcases a classic example of structurally controlled mineralization, where faults, fractures, folds, and shear zones have played a crucial role in the localization and distribution of ore bodies. However, while the economic importance of this metallogenic province is well recognized, the environmental consequences of mining in such structurally complex terrains remain under-explored. This study describes relationship between structural controls and lead-zinc mineralization in Zawar, examining how geological features not only influence ore deposition but also affect environmental outcomes. By integrating field observations, structural mapping, and geochemical analyses, the research identifies key zones of structural weakness that serve as for both ore-forming fluids and potential contaminant pathways. The work places particular emphasis on the environmental implications of mining activities in structurally active zones—highlighting issues such as groundwater contamination, heavy metal leaching, landscape alteration, and ecological degradation. It also considers the role of mining-induced changes in hydrogeology and the cumulative impacts on local ecosystems and communities. Through a multidisciplinary approach combining structural geology, environmental geoscience, and sustainability studies, this research contributes valuable insights into responsible resource extraction. The findings underscore the need for environmentally informed mine planning and remediation strategies, especially in geologically sensitive areas like Zawar. This comprehensive analysis is intended for geologists, environmental scientists, mining engineers and students seeking to understand the critical intersection of structural geology and environmental in mineral-rich regions. It advocates for a balance between economic development and ecological sustainability, offering guidance toward more informed and environmentally conscious mining practices in India and beyond.