How does mining disturb ecological balance? Explain.

(N/A) Mining disturbs the ecological balance in the following ways:
$(i)$ Large amounts of waste are generated during the extraction process,which covers and degrades fertile land,making it unsuitable for agriculture or vegetation.
$(ii)$ The removal of topsoil and vegetation destroys the natural habitat of many useful microorganisms,leading to a significant decline in their population and disrupting the nutrient cycle.