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Mercury is present as trace element in coal. When the coal is burnt in thermal power plants, the mercury
available in coal is released. Once released, the mercury is either evaporated in the atmosphere; some
part is trapped in pollution control instruments like electrostatic precipitator, bag etc and the rest goes
with the bottom and fly ash. The small level of mercury can be tolerated without much harmful effects;
however when there is concentration of industries at one place, the concentration level increases and the
cumulative effect has a devastating effect on the humans. The irony is that the impact of today’s emissions
is visible after a very long time say 20-25 years. Thus, while selectingthe location of thermal power
plants, their clubbing at one place should be reviewed in light of pollution caused by mercury apart from
other factors.
Key words: Mercury, Coal, Thermal power plants.