What is solution mining?

Solution mining or in situ leaching is a mining method for recovering minerals with the help of leaching solutions. These minerals occur in solid state and when the leaching solution in pumped in via holes, they dissolve. This mineral rich solution in pumped back onto the surface and processed to recover the mineral. Minerals of uranium, copper, gold and potash are mined through this method. Recently, a tripartite agreement was signed to conduct feasibility studies of solution mining of potash in Rajasthan. If successful, this would be India’s first solution mining project.