Investigation of Crack Development and Durability Issues in Buildings Located in Coal Mining Zones: A Case Study of Dhanbad, Jharkhand

The main objective of this study is to investigate the development of cracks and durability problems in buildings located in coal mining zones of Dhanbad, Jharkhand. Dhanbad district is one of the major coal mining regions of India, especially the Jharia Coalfield, where underground coal mining has been carried out for many decades. Continuous mining activities have resulted in ground subsidence, land deformation and instability of soil, which significantly affect nearby buildings and infrastructure. Another objective of this research is to examine the impact of underground coal fires that are burning beneath the surface in several parts of the Jharia coalfield such as Bokapahari, Lodna, Bastacola and nearby areas. These underground fires weaken the ground strata and create voids inside the earth, which may lead to sudden ground settlement and formation of cracks in residential and commercial buildings. The study also aims to analyze the types and patterns of cracks observed in buildings, including residential houses and multi-storey buildings, in mining affected areas such as Jharia, Katras, Baghmara, Sindri and Govindpur. Field observations will help to identify whether the cracks are caused by mining-induced subsidence, soil movement, foundation failure, or structural weaknesses. Another important objective of the research is to assess the structural durability and safety of buildings located in these coal mining zones. The study will evaluate how continuous ground movement, vibration from mining operations, and heat from underground coal fires affect the long-term stability of building foundations, walls and structural elements.