Once the Adani mine closes 6 vast open cut pits, up to 200 metres deep, will be left behind. These will act as permanent sinks for groundwater[1].  

Adani itself estimates that over 800 million litres of groundwater will flow into these open pits each year in perpetuity.[2]

Adani will also leave behind 12 massive waste dumps that will potentially leach heavy metals into groundwater and nearby creeks and streams.

[1] Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project SEIS (Nov 2013) Mine Hydrogeology Report, Appendix K1, gives daily figures for inflows which we have converted to annual inflows. Page 108.  NB Inflows during the life of the mine may be even larger for some voids, because partial refilling is not planned to commence for a number of decades.[2] Carmichael Coal Mine and Rail Project SEIS (Nov 2013) Mine Hydrogeology Report, Appendix K1, gives daily figures for inflows which we have converted to annual inflows. Page 108.  NB Inflows during the life of the mine may be even larger for some voids, because partial refilling is not planned to commence for a number of decades.