Surface phenomena in the course of exploitation

A typical demonstration of deep mining is the deformation of earth surface above the mined areas. In the extreme, destruction of buildings may occur. The size and extent of surface changes is directly related to the thickness of coal seams, mined area and the intensity of mining operations. It is also dependent on rock composition and other circumstances.

In the Ostrava region subsidences of up to 20 metres were recorded. For example, Ostrava castle has subsided from the commencement of mining by 14 metres.

In the Karviná region, where huge coal seams are mined, even more considerable subsidence takes place – locally by more than 40 metres. The overall subsidence of the church of St. Peter of Alcantra near the former Gabriela Mine is 33 metres.

Changes on the surface do not end with the termination of mining operations, they fade away for some time. The changes induced by mining, including their fading away, can be to a large extent forecasted on the basis of calculations according to the Budryk-Knothe method.

 

• Mining and municipalities
• Construction permission in the mining vicinity