Initial Environmental Examination

July 2011

India: Assam Power Sector Enhancement Investment Program – Tranche 3

Prepared by Assam State Electricity Board for the Asian Development Bank

The environmental assessment report is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB‘s Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS

(As of 15 May 2011)

Currency Unit – Indian Rupees $1.00 = INR 43.45

ABBREVIATIONS

ADB - Asian Development Bank ADEF - Assam Department of Environment and Forests APCB - Assam Pollution Control Board APDCL - Assam Power Distribution Company Limited APs - Affected People ASEB - Assam State Electricity Board EA - Executing Agency ESMU - Environment and Social Management Unit EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment EMP - Environmental Management Plan GHG - Greenhouse gas GoA - Government of Assam GWh - Gigawatt-hour GoI - Government of India IA - Implementing Agency IEE - Initial Environmental Examination PMU - Project Management Unit RoW - Right-of-Way SPS - Safeguard Policy Statement SS - Substation TA - Technical Assistance T/L - Transmission Line

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES m - meter cm - centimeter km - kilometer ha - hectare MVA - megavolt-ampere kV - kilovolt (1,000 volts) MW - megawatt mm - millimeter C - degree Celsius

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page Number

1.0 INTRODUCTION 4

2.0 POLICY, LEGAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK 4

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 5

4.0 DESCRIPTION OF EXISTING ENVIRONMENT 9 4.1 Location of Assam 9 4.2 Physical Resources 9 4.2.1 Atmosphere 9 4.2.2 Topography and Soil 9 4.2.3 Surface Water Resources 10 4.2.4 Groundwater Resources 10 4.2.5 Geology and Seismology 10 4.3 Ecological Resources 11 4.3.1 Forests 11 4.3.2 Flora and Fauna 12 4.4 Socioeconomic and Cultural Environment 12

5.0 SCREENING OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 13 5.1 Environmental Effects due to Project Location and Design 13 5.2 Environmental Effects during Construction 13 5.3 Environmental Effects during Operation 14

6.0 INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN 15 6.1 Institutional Requirements 15 6.2 Environmental Management Plan 16

7.0 PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND INFORMATION DISCLOSURE 22

8.0 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM 25

9.0 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION 25

10.0 CONCLUSIONS 25

List of Annexes

Annex 1 Description of Substations 26 Annex 2 List of Participants during Field Consultation 34

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Government of Assam (GoA), through the Government of India (GoI, the borrower) has requested the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a loan funding through the Multi- tranche Financing Facility (MFF) which was approved on 18 November 2009. The Government of Assam and the Assam State Electricity Board (ASEB) are the Executing Agencies for the MFF and this is Tranche 3 drawn from the MFF.

GoA has unbundled ASEB into three companies: Assam Power Generation Corporation Limited (APGCL), Assam Electricity Grid Corporation Limited (AEGCL) and Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL). The APDCL will be the Implementing Agency (IA) for Tranche 3.

The investments to be supported by ADB will (i) facilitate increased power transfers to accommodate increased demand and economic growth; peak demand is projected to increase from the current 848 megawatts (MW) to 1443 MW, and total energy demand will increase from current 4398 gigawatt-hours (GWh) by 2012; (ii) improve supply-side energy efficiency by removing system bottlenecks and reducing technical losses; (iii) reduce the intensity of greenhouse gas (GHG) and other emissions through an improved system efficiency; (iv) support expanded private sector participation in distribution system operations and energy services; and (v) facilitate poverty reduction through an improved electricity services and economic growth.

An Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (EARF) was prepared during Tranche 1 and is applicable for any investment that will be financed through the MFF which includes Tranche 3. The EARF provides for the policy requirements, procedures, and institutional arrangements relevant for all the tranches. As the Executing Agency, ASEB is in-charge of preparing the applicable environmental assessments corresponding to the environment category of the project and in getting the approval of ADB before project implementation.

The subprojects identified in Tranche 3 are classified as Environment Category B based on their potential environmental impacts as indicated in ADB‘s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 (SPS 2009). For Category B, an initial environmental examination is required. Thus, this IEE was prepared following the SPS 2009 and the format given in the Environment Assessment Guidelines (2003) of ADB.

2.0 POLICY, LEGAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

The major acts and rules which are relevant to the subproject activities are: The Electricity Act (1910) and its Amendments (2004) and (2007) and the Electricity Rule (1956) and its Amendments (2000); The Indian Telegraphic Act (1885) and its Amendments ( 2003); The Environment Protection Act (1986); The Forest Act (1980) and Land Acquisition Act, 1894 and its Amendments (1984). Some of the policies of high relevance are: The National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy (2007), and The National Environment Policy (2006).

Clearance under the Environment (Protection) Act 1986 and Environmental Impact Assessment Notification 2006

On 14 September 2006, the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has declared that power transmission projects are exempted from environmental clearance requirements as indicated in the Notification in the Gazette of India, Extra-ordinary part II, and Section 3, sub-section (II) as these interventions are considered as non-polluting.

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Clearance under the Forest (Conservation) Act 1980

The Forest Act provides guidance on the right-of-way (ROW) and tree cutting. Where routing of transmission lines through the forest areas cannot be avoided, these should be aligned in such a way that it involves the least amount of tree cutting. The maximum width of ROW for transmission lines on forest land is given in Table 2.1. Below each conductor, a width clearance of 3 meters (m) would be permitted for the movement of tension stringing equipment. The trees on such strips would have to be felled but after stringing work is completed, the natural vegetation will be allowed to regenerate. Felling/pollarding/pruning of trees will be done with the permission of the local forest officer whenever necessary to maintain the electrical clearance. One outer strip shall be left clear to permit maintenance of the transmission line.

Table 2.1 Description of Right-of-Way of Transmission Lines in Forest Areas

Transmission Voltage, kV Width of ROW, meter 11 7 33 15 66 18 110 22 132 27 220 35 400 52 800 85 Source: IS 5613 and MoEF Guidelines

In line with the national goal, GOA manages their forest resources pursuant to the Forest Act which provides for the mechanism to protect its rich forests, biodiversity and natural heritage and resources. The Act permits only unavoidable use of forest land for various development purposes. It embodies the firm commitment of GOA and the Assam Department of Environment and Forests (ADEF) to balance the conservation of forests with the sustainable developmental need of the society contributing to better environment, health and economy. The Forest Act is regulatory in nature and not prohibitory, and provides a built-in mitigation process for cases where forest access is unavoidable. Project proponents request the use of forest land to MoEF and/or ADEF. ADEF reviews the request, and if granted, the project proponent pays user fees to ADEF. The fees are used for afforestation and reforestation in other areas. The reserved forest area used by the projects is ―diverted,‖ or effectively re-zoned for project purposes.

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

The subprojects included in Tranche 3 are as follows:

Access to Power The distribution component includes: 1) construction of 29 new 33/11 kV substations, 2) augmentation of 14 existing 33/11 kV substations, 3) construction of new approx. 290 km of 33 kV sub transmission lines, 4) upgrade of approx. 340 km of 33 kV sub transmission lines, and 5) construction of approx. 300 km of new 11 kV distribution lines.

A brief description and distribution of the subprojects given above are presented in Table 3.1 while Figure 3.1 shows the location of the proposed substations.

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Energy Efficiency Enhancement The energy efficiency and loss reduction includes: 1) Renovation and modernization of existing 5 x 33/11 kV substations 2) Construction of HVDS covering 30 distribution transformers (DTR), and 3) Conversion of ABC for approx. 10 km of HV and approx. 60 km of LV lines.

(iii) Distribution Franchising: Under the Assam Power Sector Development Program (APSDP), the single point power supply (SPPS) program for distribution franchising was developed. The proposed distribution component will enable the rollout of relevant franchising models.

Table 3.1 Description of substation and transmission lines as Access to Power

33 kV 11 kV Capacity S.N Substation District Land Description Length, Length, MVA km km Access to Power Components 1 Jatia Kamrup Urban 20 Owned by APDCL 2.5 8 2 Nehru Stadium Kamrup Urban 20 Government 1 4 (Stadium) 3 Borka Kamrup Rural 10 Private 10 12 4 Dharapur Kamrup Urban 20 Private 2 10 5 Adabari Kamrup Urban 20 Government 4 5 (University) 6 Hekera Kamrup Rural 10 Government 15 10 7 Dhubri Dhubri 10 Owned by APDCL 17 10 8 Balajan Dhubnri 5 Government 20 16 9 North. Salmara Bongain Gaon 10 Government 22 16 10 Ghagrapar Nalbari 5 Private 2 12 11 Mangoldoi Ind Darang 10 Government 4 6 estate (Industrial Estate) Lower Assam Zone 99.5 109.0 12 Deodhar Nagaun 5 Private 15 10 13 Daflagarh Sonitpur 5 Private (Tea Estate) 19 8 14 Harchurra Sonitpur 5 Private (Tea Estate) 5 8 15 Thelamara (Erabari) Sonitpur 10 Government 1.5 12 (Panchayat) 16 Boginadi Lakhimpur 10 Government 20 16 17 Naoboicha Lakhimpur 10 Private (Tea Estate) 10 6 18 Bhaga Cachar 5 Private 10 10 19 Lamajuar Cachar 10 Private 2 16 20 Chirukandi Cachar 20 - 5 12 (Rangpur) Central Assam Zone 87.5 98.0 21 Bhadoi Pasali Dibrugarh 10 Private 18 16 22 Dibrugarh-II Dibrugarh 20 Government 10 6 23 MVA Tinsukia-II Tinsukia 20 Government 5 8 (Panitola) 24 Na Pukhuri Tinsukia 20 Government/Private 18 12 25 Pengeri Tinsukia 10 Government 18 16 26 Cinnamora Jorhat 20 Government (Tea 15 8 Estate) 27 Jorhat By-Pass, Jorhat 10 Government 12 8

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33 kV 11 kV Capacity S.N Substation District Land Description Length, Length, MVA km km Hathighar 28 Panichokuwa Jorhat 10 Government 0.3 10 (Irrigation) 29 Golghat-II Golghat 10 APDCL 6 8 Upper Assam Zone 102.3 92.0

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Figure 3.1 Location of Proposed Substations

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4.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

4.1 Location of Assam

Situated between 90-96 East Longitude and 24-28 North Latitude, Assam is bordered in the North and East by the Kingdom of Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh. Along the south lies Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram. Meghalaya lies to her South-West, Bengal and Bangladesh to her West1. Assam has 27 districts and covers an area of 78,438 km2. As of 2001, it has a population 26. 6 million. Assam is divided into three geographic zones namely: Lower Assam, Central Assam and Upper Assam. The major subprojects sites are scattered in thirteen districts covering all the three zones within the Brahmaputra Valley.

4.2 Physical Resources

4.2.1 Atmosphere

With the 'Tropical Monsoon Rainforest Climate', Assam is a temperate region and experiences heavy rainfall and humidity. Air quality within the Project area was found to be generally good during the field visits in April 2011. The cities are considered polluted due to significant urban development as well as emissions from vehicular movement and industrial establishments. The database of Central Pollution Control Board and the State Pollution Control Board are limited to major cities and some selected industrial areas. The major sources of pollution in the areas are from vehicular movement on unpaved roads in the form of suspended particulate matter (SPM) and respirable particulate matter (RPM) with particle size less than 10 µm. Similarly, dust arising from ground or soil disturbances could be another source of air pollution. All the thirteen districts within the project area have four distinct seasons: winter, summer, monsoon and autumn or post monsoon. Summers are hot (maximum temperature between 33ºC and 44ºC) and winters are comfortable (temperature range is: 10ºC to 27ºC). The monsoon season runs between May and October and the annual rainfall is more of 2000 mm.

4.2.2 Topography and Soil

Majority of the areas in Assam State are floodplains of the Brahmaputra River and the altitude of the plain areas vary from as low as 50 m to as high as 600 m. The eastern plains have an altitude of about 600 m. Cachar plains in the southern part of the State have an altitude of about 50 m. Central and south central part of the state, comprising North Cachar Hills and Rengma Hills, have an altitude ranging from 300 m to 150 m. The western part of the State, comprising of North and South Brahmaputra Hills, have similar altitude range. Satellite images shows that the surface morphology is dominated by major river systems with numerous tributary rivers and streams, oxbow lakes, relict oxbow lakes and relict stream channels.

In the project area, some rocky hills are also present at sporadic locations. The major soil types within the Project area can be classified into five groups namely: Entisols, Mollisols, Alfisols, Utisols and Hisosols. The Entisols can be subclassified into Younger alluvium and Bhabar. The Younger alluvium can be predominately seen along the Brahmaputra River and some sporadic patches in southern parts of state. The alfisols can be seen in central parts of state. The hill soils are generally found in the southern hilly terrains of the state. The hill soils can be divided into red sandy soils and the red loamy soils. The lateritic soils in the state extensively occur almost entirely over the North Cachar hills district.

1 Assam at a glance, Official Website of Assam, The Government of Assam, http://assamgovt.nic.in/glance.asp

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4.2.3 Surface Water Resources

The Brahmaputra River Valley is approximately 1000 km long with an average width of 80 km. The river flow is characterized by highly braided channel coupled with numerous sand bars or chars. During its course, the river receives many tributaries both from the north and the south. The tributaries from the north are Subamashi, Saralbhanga and Sankosh and those from the south are Noa Dhihing, Buribihing, Disang, Dikhow, and Kopili. CPCB2 monitors the surface water quality in India. Its latest publication has indicated that rivers constitute a length of 4820 km in Assam and the total surface water bodies cover an area of 1350 km2. Out of these beels, oxbow lakes and derelict water constitute 1100 km2 of surface area. CPCB monitors water quality in 52 stations in the Brahmaputra River System and out of these, 10 stations directly fall in the Brahmaputra River. The water quality report published in 2006 concluded that the mainstream of Brahmaputra River was exceeding the criteria at Kherghat, Nimatighat and Jogigopa; and its tributaries Digboi, Bharalu, Bhogdoi, Deeparbil, Dhansiri, Burhiding, Jhanji, and Borak were polluted. Water quality parameters included biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) in Bharalu River – 52 mg/L; BOD in Elangabeel Lake System – 106 mg/L; dissolved oxygen in Brahmaputra - > 4 mg/L and total coliform in Brahmaputra is 240,000 MPN per 100 mL.

4.2.4 Groundwater Resources

Assam falls among the richest states in terms of potential ground water resources. The Brahmaputra valley, covering more than 70% of the total geographical area of the state, contains prolific aquifer system with water table at 5 m below ground surface. The Barak valley also has good potential for development of ground water. The recoverable recharge of ground water has been estimated at 2 million hectare meter per year3. With the present ground water resource available to be utilized, it is estimated that an additional area of about 14,000 km2 can be brought under irrigation if this is realized. Besides irrigational use, ground water is a source of domestic use water in the state. The lifting of ground water through dug wells, tube wells, shallow tube wells and deep tube wells for irrigation, domestic and industrial use is very common in the state.

4.2.5 Geology and Seismology

Assam has a diversified geological spectrum. The extreme geostatic pressures exerted on the landmass during the creation of the Himalayas have resulted in Assam having large areas of sedimentary deposits. This explains the huge amount of oil found in places like Digboi, Bongaigaon etc. Cachar district is a huge storehouse of limestone. Limestone, which is basically calcium carbonate, is primarily a sedimentary rock used for construction, interior decoration etc. Karbi Anglong District and North Cachar hills have substantial reserves of coal in the form of peat, lignite, bituminous and anthracite. Karbi Anglong is also rich in Kaolin (China Clay) deposits while another district, Morigaon, contains extensive reserves of granite. The famous Dhubri district has an approximate reserve of more than ten million tonnes of iron ore. Of the four kinds of iron ore, Haematite, Magnetite, Limonite and Siderite, the region is predominant in Haematite deposits. Nagaon district has high reserves of glass sand.

Based on the severity of seismic hazard, India has been divided into 5 seismic zones by the Bureau of Indian Standards. The ranking I-V is based on the increasing order of severity. The entire Assam State has been placed under seismic Zone V, and therefore all thirteen districts in which the subprojects are located fall in Zone V which has highest

2 Status of Water Quality in India, 2006; Central Pollution Control Board, New Delhi; http://cpcb.nic.in/ 3 Central Ground Water Board (1984), Ground Water Estimation Committee, Ministry of Irrigation.

10 potential for occurrence of severe earthquake. The earthquakes of 1897 and 1950, measuring 8.7 on Richter scale are among the most severe in recorded history, and have caused extensive damages. The earthquake resulted to rock falls on hill slope, subsidence, fissuring of ground in the valley, and changes in the course and morphology of several tributary rivers.

4.3 Ecological Resources

4.3.1 Forests

Assam is well known for its ecological diversity, wide range of floral and faunal species, and for the conservation successes achieved. Out of the total land area of 78,438 km2, 35% is covered with forest.4 The forest cover is further categorized as: very dense (6%), moderately dense (40.82%) and rest, either degraded or open. In broader terms, the forest in Assam can be described into following types/subtypes: Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests, Tropical Semi Evergreen Forests, Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests, Sub-tropical Broad leaf Hill Forests, Sub-tropical Pine Forests, Littoral and Swamp Forests, Grassland and Savannahs. Moist Deciduous Forests can further be described as Sal Forests and Mixed Deciduous Forests. Sal Forests occupy considerable forest area in the Central and Lower parts of the State, specifically, in the Districts of Nagaon, Morigaon, Kamrup, parts of Nalbari and Barpeta, Darrang, Dhubri, Kokrajhar and Goalpara. The climatic conditions cause prevalence of hot and highly humid weather in this part of country and coupled with heterogenic physiography make possible luxuriant growth of a number of plant communities imparting Assam with a distinct identity phytogeographically. Many species are endemic to this region and it is also the center of origin for commercially important plants including banana, citrus, mango, zizyphus, and tea. The array of floristic richness has prompted many scholars to describe Assam as the ―Biological Gateway‖ of North East.

Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests are found in the districts of Golaghat, Jorhat, Sibsagar, Tinsukia, Dibrugarh and in a narrow stretch in Lakhimpur and Dhemaji districts along foot hills. These forests also occur in the southern part of the State at lower elevations in Borail Range, and in Loharbund, Sonai, Longai and Dholia Reserve Forests in Cachar and Karimganj Districts. Hollong (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus), the tallest tree of Assam and also the ―State Tree‖ is the most predominant constituent of these forests. The associated species are Borpat, Jutuli ,Sam, Dewa sam, Nahar , Teeta chap, Bhelu, Mekai etc. Forests in Southern Assam have, however, Garjan (Dipterocarpus terbinatus) in association with Nahar (Mesua ferrea), Bolong (Mesua floribunda), Champ (Michelia glabra), Kathalua (Palaquium polyanthum), etc. There is a luxuriant growth of epiphytes and trees with fissured bark supporting magnificent ornamental orchids of Assam. Lianas, vines and climbers are plenty, twining round trees in middle canopy. Almost all the tree ferns of Assam grow majestically in these forests. The undergrowth is dense with both low shrubs and herbs occupying the space. Canes, palms and bamboos grow along edges of forests. Tropical Semi Evergreen Forests occur mostly in Hallangapar, Abhoypur, Dilli, Dhansiri, Kholahat, Mayong, Garbhanga, Rani, Mahamaya, Guma, Haltugaon, Kachugaon, Gali, Pobha, Ranga, Kakoi, Nauduar, Batasipur, Dohalia, Singla, Longai, Bhuban Pahar, Sonai, Barak and Inner Line Reserve Forests along Northern and Southern parts of the State. These forests have mostly medium size trees with few large trees. Shrubs, lianas, climbers, orchids and ferns grow copiously. At the fringe, bamboos and canes occupy the space.

4 Department of Environment and Forest, Government of Assam, Official website- http://assamforest.in/

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4.3.2 Flora and Fauna

Species association and frequency of their occurrence vary from forest to forest, but the ones commonly found are Petarichawa (Actinodaphne obovata), Ramanbih (Aesculus species), Sam (Artocarpus chama), Siris, Sau, Koroi (Albizia species), Kadam (Anthocephalus chinensis), Khakan (Duabanga grandiflora), Hingori, Dhobahingori, Kanchan (Castonopsis species), Ou-tenga (Dillenia indica), Kanchan (Bauhinia purpurea), Jarul, Ajar, Sidha (Lagerstroemia species), Magnolia species (Phulsopa, Gahorisopa, Pansopa, Kharikasopa, Kathalsopa, Duleesopa), Sinduri, Joral, Dudhloti, Buritokan (Mallotus species), Teeta campa (Michelia champaca), Paharijam, Mokrajam, Berjamu, Kolajamu, Bogijamu, golapjamu (Syzygium species). Bolem, Ghugra (Schima wallichii), Hilikha, Bohera, Bhomora (Terminalia species) and Bhelkor (Trewia nudiflora).

Assam is part of the transitional zone between the Indian, Indo- Malayan and Indo- Chinese Biographical regions. Favorable climate, topographic and edaphic factors support luxuriant growth of diverse plant communities and create varied habitats. The Wet Evergreen, Semi-Evergreen, Moist Deciduous, Wet Savannah and riparian forest as well as extensive network of river systems and swamps, marshes and wetlands provide ideal conditions and suitable habitat for sustenance of wide variety of mammals, primates, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, mollusks, birds, butterflies, moths etc. With existence of one of the most diverse faunal population;

Assam provides the gateway for spread of both oriental and Palaearctic fauna to other parts of the country. Assam‘s mammalian diversity is represented by 193 species which are widely distributed in this region. But of late some of the species like one horned rhinoceros, water buffalo, pigmy hog, swamp deer, golden langur, hoolock gibbon have their distribution limited to isolated pockets and protected areas. Out of 15 Indian primate species 9 are found in Assam. Hoolock gibbon is the only ape found in India. The other primate species are golden langur, capped monkey, rhesus macaque, pigtail macaque, stump tailed macaque, Assamese macaque, and slow Lorries. Golden langur or ―Sonali Bandar‖ as it is known locally is confined between Sankosh river in the west; Manas in the east; Brahmaputra in the south and mountains in Bhutan in the north.

4.4 Socioeconomic and Cultural Environnent

The population of Assam is 26.7 million as of 2001 census5 and the population density is 3.4 persons per hectare (ha). There are 27 districts, which are the large administrative units) and the total villages in these districts are 26,247. Literacy rate is 64.28% (as of 2001) and GDP per capita of the State was Rs 6,220 in 2001. Agriculture sector accounts for 40% of the GDP. The State had a livestock population of 16 million which was 3.4 % of the country's total. The economy is based primarily on agriculture, crude oil and natural gas production, and petrochemical exploration.

Rural population comprised 89% of the total population in Assam and 53% of the workforce is predominantly employed in the agriculture sector. About 40% of the total land area is cultivated. The main crops are tea (accounts for over 50% of total production in the country), bamboo, ginger, chilis, peas, rice, wheat and oil seeds. Assam has been ranked in 6th place in fruit and vegetable production in India. Despite the large contribution of agriculture in GDP, demand-supply gaps are noticeable and subsistence farming is prevalent. Mechanization of agricultural activities and energy supply to extract the groundwater for irrigation are limited. Average farm size is 1.27 ha.

5 Department of Environment and Forest, Government of Assam, Official website- http://assamforest.in/

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About 60% of the households are living below the poverty line. Assam ranks 26th in the human resources development index and 21st in poverty index in India. 6 Assam has growth of income rates below the national average. The incidence of unemployment is increasing in the State.

Assam has a good potential for tourism development due to its scenic beauty, rarest flora and fauna, vast rolling plain, waterways and famous pilgrimage destinations. Assam has 5 national parks, 17 wildlife sanctuaries and 3 proposed wildlife sanctuaries.

5.0 SCREENING OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

This section provides a description of the location and scale of the potential environmental impacts of the proposed subprojects and mitigation measures to prevent or minimize the impacts in design, construction and operational phases. Any impacts falling on the RoW of the T/Ls or the substation locations and/or the sensitive receivers located in their proximity have been identified and routine engineering measures to mitigate or minimize the impacts have been proposed.

5.1 Environmental Effects due to Project Location and Design

Environmental impacts of the subprojects are not significant and are confined only to T/L RoW and the location of substations. However, there are some minor negative impacts on natural and socio-economic resources during land acquisition and construction activities. In selecting the sites for substations and the ingoing or outgoing alignment of the 33 kV and or 11 kV lines, sensitive areas such as forests were avoided to the extent possible. Priority for site selection was given to Government land. As shown in Table 3.1, out of the 29 substations, 10 sites are on private lands. Three of these sites are located on private Tea Estates. The agricultural land requirement is 8.83 ha. The land to be acquired from Tea Estate is 8.64 ha. Site selection was also guided by the approved EARF, to the extent possible.

Based on existing legislation and practices, it is not essential to acquire the land for the construction of 33 kV or 11 kV lines in agricultural lands. Therefore, the project does not need additional land for laying the 33 kV and 11 kV lines. The ownership of the land falling in the ROW of the lines is with the owner of the land. However, compensation is essential for the damage of standing crops. ASEB has proposed the area required for each new substation to be in the range of 1.2 – 1.5 bigha (typically 0.15 ha). The private lands for new substations will be acquired based on The Land Acquisition Act 1894, as amended. During the field visit to the substation sites in April 2011, it was found that initiatives were already in place to acquire the land. Negotiation has already been carried out for the land for two sites located in the Private Tea Estate.

5.2 Environmental Effects during Construction

The construction of new T/L involves only small scale excavation for pole foundations at scattered locations that are backfilled with excavated materials. Therefore, uncontrolled silt run-off is not expected. Further, the available best engineering practices will be undertaken to prevent soil erosion during the placement of transmission towers on slopes and erosion-prone soils. Adequate steps will be taken to resurface the area after construction. Whenever sites are likely to be affected by active erosion or landslides, both biological and engineering treatment will be carried out which include provision of

6 Human Development Report, 2001

13 retaining walls, sowing soil binding grasses around the site and routine bio-engineering measures. Furthermore, construction works will be discouraged in rainy season.

Obsolete equipment, including any hazardous wastes, will be disposed of following the best practices and the local special waste management rules. Health hazards from potential explosions or fire, electric shocks, and accidents to staff and the public will be minimized through implementation of measures including (i) designs using appropriate technologies to minimize hazards, (ii) safety awareness raising for construction and operational staff and the public, (iii) substations equipped with modern fire control systems, (iv) provision of adequate water supply and sanitation facilities for substations and construction camps, (v) provision of adequate staff training in operations and maintenance, and (vi) security fences and barriers around substations and transmission poles in populated areas and in the proximity of public places such as schools.

Majority of the T/L and substation locations were found near the urban settlements, highways, railway lines and local roads. However, in some cases, the T/L or a substation site is about 1-2 km away from these infrastructures. Therefore, temporary access tracks might be needed in some locations. The environmental impacts associated with the establishment of temporary access tracks may include disturbance of soils and disruption of small streams or other water bodies. Uncontrolled soil erosion and silt runoff are likely to be minor due to the limited amount of excavation required. Construction will generate noise for a short duration in predominantly rural locations, but is considered insignificant.

To minimize impacts to topography, soils, and surface water, established highways, roads and tracks will be used wherever possible. Compensation will be paid for temporary loss in agricultural production in accordance with the resettlement action plan. Topsoil will be protected and reinstated after construction is completed, and damaged bunds and irrigation facilities will be maintained in working condition throughout project implementation. During the construction of transmission lines, RoW with a maximum width of 10 m will be cleared, of which 3 meters will be kept clear for maintenance of RoW. The balance of the RoW will be returned for agricultural use or allowed to naturally recover.

Replacement of cables or poles will be carried out in some of the existing T/Ls located either on the side of the roads or agriculture areas. Since these areas are already stabilized and the land has already been acquired and the affected people have been compensated, hence, there would be minimal and temporary disturbance during construction phase. As far as forest resources are concerned, the trees in the RoW of existing T/Ls were removed during the construction so no new clearing is essential. However, the routine maintenance of tree chopping and bush clearance is essential prior to replacing the poles or installing cables.

The common impact in the substation sites include damage to the crops in the field, and noise pollution and nuisance to the dwellers and pedestrian during the construction and movement of the equipments and SS components such as transformers. The crop damage will be compensated based on relevant existing rules at the central and state level. The local people will be informed in advance and requested for their cooperation during construction. The construction activities will be carried out in such a way that noise disturbance will be minimized and restricted during nighttime.

5.3 Environmental Effects during Operation

During construction of T/Ls, the resources damaged will be compensated. As per the Electricity Act 2003, the land area underneath the T/L conductor can be used for agriculture purposes by the landowner. Vegetation will be trimmed to ensure that the required vertical spacing between conductors and the tip of the trees are maintained. To

14 minimize the risk of accidents and exposure to electric fields, houses and other structures will not be allowed within the right-of-way, but agricultural activities can be continued.

6.0 INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN

6.1 Institutional Requirements

ASEB is the Executing Agency and APDCL is the Implementing Agency for Tranche 3. There is already an existing Project Management Unit (PMU) which is undertaking the implementation of ADB loans for Tranche 1 and Tranche 2. An Environment and Social Management Unit (ESMU) has already been set up in the PMU which is responsible for the overall coordination of land acquisition, resettlement, and environmental issues for Tranche 1 and Tranche 2. ESMU will also be mandated to carry out similar activities for Tranche 3. During project implementation, the PMU will be responsible for supervising the implementation of mitigation measures and in monitoring the performance of Contractors.

The ESMU is responsible for overall environmental management of the proposed subprojects. The regular monitoring of environmental compliance audits shall be undertaken to make sure that the mitigation measures in the EMP are properly implemented. The ESMU is headed by an Environmental and Resettlement Specialist. The PMU is assisted by Design and Supervision consultant and ESMU is assisted by designated site engineers and APDCL who will be responsible for the field activities. The EA will ensure that key institutions including local governments are involved in updating the EMP (if necessary due to change in future design). The duties of ESMU include:

(i) Collecting, analyzing and monitoring of the social benefit, environment, land acquisition and resettlement and poverty impact of the transmission and distribution components in the proposed ADB assisted program (ii) Monitoring of EMP clauses included in the bid documents (iii) Monitoring of the implementation of mitigation measures (iv) Advising and coordinating effective environment management (v) Providing inputs in preparation of environment and safety manuals for the safe operation of substations and its implementation (vi) Liaison with the MoEF in New Delhi and the Assam Pollution Control Board (APCB), and in seeking their assistance to resolve environment-related issues during project implementation (vii) Advising the project planning cell on environmental and social issues during site and route selection at planning stage to avoid negative environmental impacts; and (viii) Providing training and safety updates on environmental and social issues related to power transmission and distribution to project staff and employees of contractor and also execute capacity building activities (ix) Prepare environmental management reports every 6 months

Currently, the ESMU has 13 members comprising of senior officials from ASEB and a land acquisition officer who was on deputation from other government unit. A senior level civil engineer has also been assigned to work in the capacity of ‗environmental engineer‘. Project-funded consulting services are being mobilized to assist ESMU in the implementation of EMP. Consultants‘ responsibility include preparation and delivery of impact assessment reports. AESB may also outsource any additional service it will need in the field of environmental or social impact assessment and implementation of mitigation measures.

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Contractors will be responsible for the implementation of mitigation measures during the construction stage. ESMU will ensure the inclusion of environmental mitigation measures in contract documents. ADB will (i) review and endorse the IEE and EMPs before contracts are finalized and work commencement; (ii) review monitoring reports; (iii) officially disclose environmental safeguard documents on their web page as necessary in accordance with the ADB‘s Public Communication Policy (2005) and SPS 2009.

ADPCL through PMU will be responsible for internal monitoring of EMP implementation, and will forward semi-annual progress reports to Government of Assam (GoA), Government of India (GoI) and ADB. The reports will cover EMP implementation with attention to compliance and any needed corrective actions.

6.2 Environmental Management Plan

The environment management plan (EMP) including the institutional requirements and environmental monitoring plan is shown in Table 6.1. The outline has included consideration of impacts during the pre-construction and design; construction and operation and maintenance stages. The EMP ensures to minimize the impacts through appropriate mitigation measures. Table 6.2 presents the cost estimates for implementing the EMP.

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Table 6.1 Environmental Management Plan

Locations to Environmental Mitigation Measures Timing to Responsible Responsible for Objectives 7 implement Concern Recommended implement MM agency/unit monitoring/supervision MM Design and Pre-Construction Stage To avoid dense or Detail study of various details minimize human like topographical and settlements, geotechnical details, forest and monuments of environmental details, etc in During design and Alignment cultural or Throughout the Design or survey integration with engineering pre-construction APDCL/PMU/ADEF adjustment historical alignment engineers/APDCL details of various stage importance and situation/locations during damage to the planning and consultation with existing forest the local people resources Construction Stage Conducting special briefing To ensure that the and training for Contractor contractor, on the environmental subcontractors Before requirement of the project. and workers commencement of Record attendance and understand and work Orientation for achievement. have the capacity At early stages of contractor and Agreement on critical areas All subprojects APDCL PMU to ensure that the construction for all workers to be considered and environmental construction necessary mitigation requirements for employees as far measures, among all parties mitigation as practicable. who are involved in the measures are project activities implemented.

Plans to control Avoid impacts Temporary pedestrian and Deliverable in final All of the environmental and from unplanned traffic management plan form to PMU one transmission Contractor/APDCL APCB/PMU/ESMU associated impacts activities by Materials management plan month before line routes and penalizing Waste management plan construction SS locations

7 Mitigation measures

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Locations to Environmental Mitigation Measures Timing to Responsible Responsible for Objectives 7 implement Concern Recommended implement MM agency/unit monitoring/supervision MM contractors for not Noise and dust control plan commences for committing to Safety plan any given stretch. properly planning Agreed schedule of costs works. for environmental mitigation measures (including maintenance) Planning & All of the implementation of Before Construction stage Training of APDCL/PMU transmission ESMC/Safeguard effective commencement of APCB monitoring /EMSU staff line routes and Consultant environmental construction SS locations monitoring To ensure that the operation of work Confirm location of work Location map camps does not camps in consultation with Before is prepared by Work camp location adversely affect PMU and local authorities. commencement of the contractor Contractor ADEF/PMU/ESMU and operation the surrounding If possible, camp shall not construction works in tender/bid environment and be located near settlement documentation residents in the area Provide During In the allocated Contractor or Clearance of trees Compensatory afforestation PMU compensation construction sites APDCL To prevent Minimizing the removal of adverse water vegetation cover or quality impacts uprooting of the vegetation All of the due to negligence Soil erosion/surface as much as possible and During the transmission and ensure Contractor PMU/ESMU/APCB run-off providing for immediate construction line routes and unavoidable restoration where SS locations impacts are construction sites have managed been cleared. effectively To minimize Control all dusty materials at effectively and source. Throughout the Project Air quality Contractor PMU/APCB avoid complaints Fuel efficient and well construction works affected area due to the airborne maintained vehicles shall be

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Locations to Environmental Mitigation Measures Timing to Responsible Responsible for Objectives 7 implement Concern Recommended implement MM agency/unit monitoring/supervision MM particulate matter employed to minimize released to the exhaust emissions atmosphere Stockpiled soil and sand shall be slightly wetted by spraying with water Control all possible sources of water pollution from the project-related activities and To prevent worker camps. adverse water No stock piles next to water quality impacts bodies. All the due to negligence Storage of fuels, chemicals Throughout the transmission PMU/APCB/Assam Water quality and ensure Contractor and other hydrocarbons in construction works line route and Dept. of Health unavoidable self-contained dedicated SS locations impacts are enclosures away from the managed water bodies. effectively No discharge of any toxic materials (solid or liquid) in the water bodies. Contractor shall take adequate measures to minimize noise level To minimize noise increase and nuisance in During the All the level increase, the vicinity of construction movement of transmission Noise nuisance and Contractor APCB/PMU/ESMU sites by way of adopting equipments and line route and ground vibrations available acoustic methods. vehicles SS locations during construction Sensitive areas should be enclosed by using appropriate barriers To minimize the Prior notice to all local Plan location Location Blasting and social and residents and the local before approved by Contractor APCB/PMU/ESMU ground vibration environmental authorities. construction PMU cell/local impacts arising No blasting will be allowed commences authority

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Locations to Environmental Mitigation Measures Timing to Responsible Responsible for Objectives 7 implement Concern Recommended implement MM agency/unit monitoring/supervision MM from any at night. All blasting shall be unexpected carried out in the daytime blasting or rock and at regular intervals after cutting siren warnings. The residents of the sensitive area shall be evacuated temporarily and provided with alternative accommodation if required. To minimize the The contractor will maintain conflict in the close liaison with local All the consumption of communities to ensure that Use of water Throughout the transmission PMU/Dept. of Health of water resources any potential conflicts related Contractor/APDCL resources construction works line route and Assam/ESMU for the to common resource utilization SS locations construction works for project purposes are and workers resolved quickly. Provide and maintain all necessary barricades, suitable and sufficient red lights, danger signals and All the Safety precautions To ensure safety signs, and take all Throughout the transmission PMU/ESMU/Dept. of Contractor/APDCL for public of public necessary precautions for construction works line route and Health of Assam the protection of the work SS locations and safety of the public. Assign security personnel to prevent accidents Prepare and submit safety plan before commencement of construction All the Safety precaution To ensure physical Providing every workers Throughout the transmission PMU/ESMU/Dept. of Contractor/APDCL for workers safety of workers with hard hat and safety construction works line route and Health of Assam shoes SS locations Establish and operate first aid treatment within camps

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Locations to Environmental Mitigation Measures Timing to Responsible Responsible for Objectives 7 implement Concern Recommended implement MM agency/unit monitoring/supervision MM Establish all relevant safety measures as required by law and good engineering practices Provide communication devices to all workers during laying of the cables particularly in forest areas Contractors will maintain close All the To avoid conflict liaison with local communities Throughout the transmission Public relation and gain local Contractor/APDCL PMU/ESMU to avoid any potential conflicts construction works line route and support or resolve quickly SS locations Use local labour for manual work. Use local educated people All the To encourage for clerical and office work Throughout the transmission PMU/ESMU/Dept. of Social impacts local support for Contractor where possible. construction works line route and Health of Assam the project Encourage monitoring of the SS locations project by local village groups. Operation Stage Proper inspection and maintenance of RoW and the transmission towers To prevent the Throughout the Encroachment on Restriction of landuse During operation encroachment of transmission APDCL/ADEF ASEB/PMU/ESMU RoW practices such as house stage RoW line alignment and any other infrastructure development that is beyond the standards Regular trimming to To prevent fire Throughout the Vegetation maintain adequate distance hazard and risk of During operation transmission APDCL/ADEF ASEB/PMU clearance on RoW between the top of tree and electric shock line alignment the conductor NB: ADEF - Assam Department of Environment and Forests APCB - Assam Pollution Control Board

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Table 6.2 Budget for Implementation of Resettlement Action Plan and Environmental Management Plan

Cost, INR S. No. Particulars million A. Resettlement 1 Land acquisition 10 2 Crop damage compensation 6 3 Allowances to APs 1 4 Implementation of RP 3 Total 20 B. Environment 5 Environmental monitoring ( air, noise and water) 2 6 Environmental monitoring and compliance training 1 7 Consultancy services for monitoring 4 8 Monitoring and evaluation of implementation 0.7 9 Local transportation 0.2 10 ESMU ( office and equipment) 1 11 Awareness / education activities in the communities 3 12 Report and communication 0.5 13 Contingencies 0.4 Total 13

Notes and assumptions:

(1) Air, water and Noise sampling will be conducted in the proximity of 19 substations. For the 11 substations, the results from Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 will be utilized as the Tranche 3 substation sites are in the same locality for the first half of the implementation period. (2) The rate of the cost estimates are assumed to be the same as proposed under the IEE of Tranche 1 and Tranche 2. The rates per sample for air, water and noise are: INR 8500, INR 7500 and INR 4000, respectively. A total of 4 testing events are proposed: one prior to construction as a baseline and three during the construction at an interval of 6 months for a construction period of 18 months. (3) Environmental monitoring and compliance training costs include the resource persons cost @ INR 360,000 for 2 PM and field allowances for 5 ESMU trainees @ INR 5000 per day for 14 days. (4) Consultancy services for monitoring include inputs of four months per monitoring event for 4 events @ INR 240,000 per month. (5) Monitoring and evaluation of implementation of activities will be carried out by ESMU staff. A total of 10 PM are proposed for a 2 year period @ INR 72,000 per month. (6) Transportation costs includes the vehicles and fuel costs essential for local transportation during field monitoring of the implementation of activities and training events. (7) ESMU office establishment costs includes the furniture, computer, printer, LCD projector and other items essential

7.0 PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE

Consultation regarding the subproject activities, potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures was made with both the concerned staff of ASEB and the communities in the subproject locations. The objectives of these consultations are as follows:

(i) Disseminating information on the project to the stakeholders to help them understand the trade-offs between subproject benefits and disadvantages (ii) Identification of subproject sites particularly the subproject locations (iii) Understand the existing environmental conditions. (iv) Identification of key drivers of environmental problems (v) Recognition of alternative substation sites and T/L routes

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(vi) Incorporate local inputs and know-how on environmental management plan (vii) Reducing potential conflicts and delays (viii) Identify levels and extent of community participation in project implementation and monitoring

During the preparatory stages, consultations were carried out with various concerned government officials and local communities for Tranche 3 subprojects. Information essential for both social and resettlement study and environmental study was collected together. All the affected households were also consulted on a one to one basis through questionnaire survey. Focus group discussions were also conducted in the substation sites.

Local communities were found supportive for the subprojects and expressed their commitment in extending their full support to the construction and operation of the substations and T/Ls. They also anticipated some employment opportunities created with the initiatives and spill-over effects of the subprojects in Tranche 3 to the establishment of other facilities in the locality. The consultations undertaken during the field visits for the new substation sites are summarized in Table7.1.

Table 7.1 List of Consultations

Name of the Date of Number of S. No. District substation consultation participants 1. Na pukhuri Tinsukiya 26-04-2011 17 2. Vadoi Pasoli Dibrugarh 25-04-2011 24 3. Deodhar Nagaon 29-04-2011 12 4. Dibrugarh-II Dibrugarh 25-04-2011 26 5. Pengri Tinsukiya 26-04-2011 32 6. Thelamara Sonitpur 29-04-2011 25 7. Borka Kamrup 19-04-2011 20 8. Jatia Kamrup 16-04-2011 21 9. Mongoldoi Darrang 18-04-2011 18 10. Salamara Bongaigaon 20-04-2011 15 11. Ghagrabar Nalbari 13-04-2011 21

In addition to the visits mentioned in Table 7.1, follow-up visits were also made to some of the sites as follows: Jatia – April 24, 2011; Nehru Stadium – April 24, 2011; Adabari – April 26, 2011; Rangia – April 26, 2011 (Tranche – 2 facility); Ghagrapur – April 26, 2011 and Borka – April 26, 2011.

ASEB professionals and local people were consulted during this study. A list of contacted people is given as Annex 2. ASEB professionals working at the center and responsible for the subprojecs were consulted to learn the technical details as well as the associated environmental attributes. For the T/Ls and the SSs, local ASEB staff at the branch offices, distribution centers and SS locations were consulted. Similarly, local individuals were also contacted and consulted for their opinions regarding the construction and operation of the subproject facilities.

The local communities and the individuals consulted were found positive regarding the proposed investments. No serious concerns were raised by the local stakeholders in general. However, the following are some of the general concerns raised.

- compensation to be provided to the affected households and landowners - compensatory plantation - safety issues near towers, particularly at locations where schools are in proximity of the towers

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- monitoring and maintenance of T/L after construction, this is important when the T/L under consideration has an interface with other transmission or distribution lines - avoidance of locations where there is a scope of development or recreational or other public facilities

A checklist, which included both social and resettlement and environmental attributes, was used to collect the information. A village profile sheet was also used to collect the information during consultation. Every consultations described in Table 7.1 was facilitated by the responsible officers of ASEB branch offices. The feedback by the participants was documented and incorporated during the preparation of this IEE. Table 7.2 presents the summary of findings during consultation.

Table 7.2 Summary of Findings of Public Consultation

Queries Response 1. General perception about the project In general, majority of people did not have any and the awareness about the proposed prior knowledge regarding the project. However, project. all of them appreciated the proposed project and they had the common perception that the project could be a better move in terms of electricity supply. 2. Support of local people for the proposed All of the consulted people had a strong project? commitment to support the sub-project activities were fully supported by all the people. 3. Any critical issue or concern by the local Majority of the people stated that there were no people regarding the project? any critical issues involved in the project. However, some of them had the concern that the people in the project area should also get the benefit of electricity supply. 4. Will the project cause landslides or soil All of the participants had the opinion that the erosion in the locality. proposed project will not cause any impacts such If so how can the impacts be minimized? as landslides or soil erosion in the locality.

5. Will the project cause widespread All of the participants had the opinion that the imbalance by cutting fruit and proposed project will not cause any widespread commercial trees in the locality? imbalance by cutting fruit and commercial trees in If so how can the impacts be minimized? the locality. 6. Will the project cause health and safety All of the participants had the opinion that the issues in the area? proposed project will not cause health and safety If so how can the impacts be minimized? issues in the area. 7. Will the project cause aesthetic / noise All of the participants had the opinion that the problems in the area? If so how can the proposed project will not cause any aesthetic / impacts be minimized? noise problems in the area. 8. Protected areas (national park, All of the participants had the opinion that the protected forest, religiously sensitive proposed project will not cause any impact in the sites, historical or archaeological sites), protected areas. if any Any impacts on them? If so how can the impacts be minimized? 9. Will the project siting adversely change All of the participants had the opinion that the migration pattern of animals that would proposed project will not cause any adverse destroy fields, habitats? change in migration pattern of animals that would If so how can the impacts be minimized? destroy fields, habitats.

10. Will the project siting adversely impact All of the participants had the opinion that the the water or soil resource in the locality proposed project will not cause any adverse If so how can the impacts be minimized? impact in the water or soil resource in the locality.

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8.0 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM

A grievance redress mechanism to address queries and complaints is in place. Grievances of APs will first be brought to the attention to the site office level of APDCL, as the IA. Any grievance not redressed by the IA staff (field level) will be brought to the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC). The GRC has representatives from APs, PMU, IA, ESMU, field level staff, district magistrate/commissioner, local administration, revenue authority and the local community. The main responsibilities of the GRC are to: (i) provide support to APs on problems arising from land/property acquisition; (ii) record AP grievances, categorize, and prioritize grievances and resolve them; (iii) immediately inform the PMU of serious cases; and (iv) report to APs on developments regarding their grievances and decisions of the GRC and the PMU.

Other than disputes relating to ownership rights under the court of law, GRC will review grievances involving all resettlement benefits, compensation, relocation, replacement cost and other assistance. The GRC will meet every month (if grievances are brought to the Committee), determine the merit of each grievance, and resolve grievances within a month of receiving the complaint—failing which the grievance will be referred to appropriate court of Law for redressal. Records will be kept of all grievances received including: contact details of complainant, date the complaint was received, nature of grievance, agreed corrective actions and the date these were effected, and final outcome. The GRCs will continue to function during the life of the Project including the defects liability period.

9.0 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The project components include both new construction and upgrading of the capacities of the old facilities. The T/L routes and SS locations have been planned and designed keeping in mind the environmental and social concerns. Therefore, none of the project components are in environmental or social sensitive areas and hence no adverse environmental impacts are expected to occur during the implementation period. The environmental impacts during construction period are temporary and insignificant and will be mitigated with the application of appropriate mitigation measures as mentioned in EMP. Similarly, the impacts during operation stage will also be mitigated accordingly. In totality, the project components will improve the reliability of power supply and hence will have positive impact in the society in the long term. However, mitigation measures developed in the EMP should be followed by the contractors and ASEB during construction, operation and maintenance phase to ensure the project sustainability.

10.0 CONCLUSIONS

It is clear that there is no significant environmental impact expected from the project either short term or long term. Though there are some impacts during construction stage, these are temporary and insignificant and can be made to the acceptable level with appropriate mitigation measures. Further, there are negligible impacts during the operation stage.

The IEE has not identified any significant environmental impact that would require detailed EIA study. Hence, no further environmental assessment is required. However, recommended mitigation measures should be incorporated in all the stages of the project by the contractor and ASEB; and regular monitoring by ASEB is also required.

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Annex 1 Description of Substations

Jatiya (2 × 10 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and is located at the core area of the Guwahati Metropolitan. The Substation will be constructed in the premises of ADPCL's existing holdings. The facility falls under the administrative control of Guwahati Electrical Circle. A total of 2.5 km long 33 kV line feeding to the Substation and 8 km of 11 kV line going out of it will be constructed under the investment program. The 33 kV line will originate from Kahilipara Grid Substation (GSS). The facility will be constructed by demolishing an old building structure. The lines going to the Substation and originating from it will be aligned along the side of the roads. The area to be served by the proposed 11 kV networking is being served by the 11kV North-West, 11kV South and11kV West feeders emanating from the 2x10 MVA, 132/33/11kV transformers installed at the Kahilipara GSS sometime in the sixties. These transformers have been proposed to phase out as they have already outlived their useful life.

Nehru Stadium (2 × 10 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and is located within the premises of Neharu Stadium in Guwahati Metropolitan. The facility falls under the administrative control of Guwahati Electrical Circle. Under the investment program, a 1 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 4 km of 11 kV line going out of it will be installed. The 33 kV line will originate from LILO of Ulubari-Paltanbazar line. The lines going to the Substation and originating from it will be aligned along the side of the roads. At present, the Stadium feeder emanating from Ulubari Substation is feeding this area. Since the existing feeder is quite heavily loaded, the new facility is expected to cater 3400 consumers to be shifted from the existing facility.

Borka (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located next to the Guwahati-Rangia Highway in Kamrup Rural District. The facility will be constructed in a private land and falls under the administrative control of Rangia Electrical Circle. The Sub project component include, a 10 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 12 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from newly constructed Kamalpur GSS. At present the area to be catered by Borka Substation is being fed by the 106 km long 11kV Kamalpur feeder from Kamalpur Substation, 40 km long 11kV Changsari feeder from Amingaon Substation and 61km long Domdoma 11kV feeder from Hajo Substation. The new facility is expected to cater a population of 3500.

Dharapur (2 × 10 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and is located next to the Highway 37 on the outskirts of Kamrup Urban District. The facility will be constructed in a private land and falls under the administrative control of Guwahati Electrical Circle. The Sub project component include, a 2 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 10 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from LILO of Jalukbari-Airport feeder. The recently published master plan of Guwahati also envisages growth of Guwahati city beyond Jalukbari area towards the Airport. As such the necessity to construct this Substation here to meet future load growth has also become imperative as later on land may not be available and there will be every likelihood of right of way problems. Under this sub-project, the total number of beneficiary‘s households will be around 5300.

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Adabari (2 × 10 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and is located next to the Highway going to the Airport from Guwahati in the Guwahati Metropolitan. The facility will be constructed in the land being occupied by Guwahati Unviersity and falls under the administrative control of Guwahati Electrical Circle. The Sub project component include, a 4 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 5 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from 132 kV Kamakhya GSS. The area is located in the western part of Guwahati city and presently power is fed from Jalukbari 3x5 MVA, 33/11kV substation. Further the area is adjacent North East Frontier Railway;s head quarter and lots of multistoried flats as well commercial complex are coming up. The existing Jalukbari 33kV substation is loaded beyond 80% and will be totally saturated. Due to space constraint, Jalukbari substation can not be augmented further. The new proposal of Adabari Substation is expectedto reduce the load to the extent of 2 MW at peak hours.

Hekera (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and located on the right bank of the river Brahmaputra near Samaria City in Kamurp Rural District. The facility will be constructed in Government land and falls under the administrative control of Guwahati Electrical Circle. The Sub project component include, a 15 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 10 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from 132 kV Boko GSS. Hekera has been declared as knowledge city and scientific parks etc are proposed to be constructed here, together with some private university. Therefore the power demand in this area will rise at a much faster rate than its adjacent area and is expected to be around 5MW. Around 11000 households will be the beneficiaries of this sub project.

Dhubri (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and located at Dhubri town in Dhubri District of Lower Assam Zone. The facility falls under the administrative control of Kokrajhar Electrical Circle. The Substation will be constructed in the premises of ADPCL's existing holdings in Dhubri. A total of 17 km long 33 kV line feeding to the Substation and 10 km of 11 kV line going out of it will be constructed under the investment program. The 33 kV line will originate from Matiyabag GSS. Dhubri Town is at present fed by a single 33/11 kV, 2x5 MVA Substation at Ambagan. Around 4.5 MW load is expected to be diverted to this proposed Substation from the 11kV AMCO Road feeder and 11kV DK Road feeder. Total no of consumers to be benefited from this facility will be around 15000.

Balajan (2 × 2.5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (5 MVA) Substation and is located near the Railway line connecting Dhubri in Dhubri District. The facility will be constructed in Government land and falls under the administrative control of Kokrajhar Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 20 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 16 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Matiyabag GSS. The area around Balajan is currently fed by the 11kV feeder emanating from the Ambagan Substation as well as by the 11kV Balajaan feeder emanating from Gauripur Substation. The 11kV feeder from Gauripur feeding this area has a length of 65 KM and the end consumer has very poor voltage regulation. These lines feeding rural area have to pass through bamboo groves and others, leading to frequent tripping and plunging the entire area into darkness. By segregating this feeder, its length is expected to be shortened by about 15 KMs and so lesser numbers of consumers will be affected and interruption time will also get reduced. The total number of consumers to be benefitted will be around 3500 by 2011 - out of which about 200 consumers belong to agriculture category. By improving the voltage

27 regulation and reliability of supply, there is expected to be further growth in the number of agricultural consumers.

North Salmara (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located near the Highway 31 in Bongaigaon District in Lower Assam. The facility will be constructed in Government land and falls under the administrative control of Bongaigaon Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 22 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 16 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Chapor 33/11kV SS. This area is currently fed by 11 kV North Salmara feeder, 90 km long and 11kV Abhayapuri Town feeder, 56km long, emanating from the Abhayapuri Substation. The peak load of the feeders is 1.5 MW and 2.0 MW respectively, therefore the voltage regulation is poor resulting in losses. Due to frequent interruptions, the quality of power supply is also poor. Construction of this Substation will benefit more than 3000 consumers.

Ghagrapur (2 × 2.5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (5 MVA) Substation and is located near the Railway connecting Nalbari with Rangia in Nalbari District. The facility will be constructed in a private land and falls under the administrative control of Rangia Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 2 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 12 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from LILO of Rangia Nalbari 33 kV feeder. Ghagrapar area is fed from the Nalbari Substation by the 11kV Ghagrapar feeder which is about 80 km long and has a peak load of 1MW. Currently Nalbari Substation caters to the load demand of the entire Nalbari Town. The Ghagrapar feeder caters to the rural area passing through thick vegetation and bamboo groves. Therefore Ghagrapur Substation is required mainly for isolation of the rural and urban consumers. The number of beneficiaries mostly minority and tribal people will be around 5000 numbers.

Mongoldi Industrial Estate (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located near Highway 52 in Darrang District. The facility will be constructed in a the land holding of the Industrial Estate and falls under the administrative control of Mangaldoi Electric Circle. The Sub project component includes a 4 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 6 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Siphajhar GSS. At present the sub-project area is being fed by the 11kV Town-2 feeder emanating from the 33/11kV Sopai Substation. There are four major HT consumers and twenty nos of LT industrial consumers and over 200 nos of commercial consumers who will be greatly benefitted by way of receiving quality and reliable power to this part.

Deodhar (2 × 2.5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (5 MVA) Substation and is located near the newly constructed NH-37 by-pass Deodhar Panchayat in Nagaon District. The facility will be constructed in a private land and falls under the administrative control of Nagaon Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 15 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 10 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate Nagaon 33 kV Substation. The area to be covered under this proposed Substation is fed by the 89km long Nanoi feeder from Nagaon 33/11kV Substation and by the Nonoi Kathiatoli feeder emanating from Kathiatoli 33/11kV SS. Construction of this Substation will enable segregation of rural and urban feeders thus ensuring uninterrupted power supply in and around Nagaon and Kathiatoli Town and at the same time help in reducing the line losses as the line length will

28 now become much shorter. The expected load transfer from the existing Substations will be around 2 MW and the number of beneficiary household will be around 7500.

Daflagarh (2 × 2.5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (5 MVA) Substation and is located in Daflagarh Tea Estate in Sonitpur District. The facility will be constructed in the Tea Estate land and falls under the administrative control of Tejpur Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 19 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 8 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate at the Gohpur 33 kV Grid Substation. The sub-project area is located to the North of Gohpur town and presently power is fed from Dhekiajuli substation. This proposed location of the new substation will feed power to four numbers of tea estates in particular and more than 7000 people. The Dufflagarh Tea Estate, Buroi Tea Estate, Nirmala Tea Estate and Brahmajan Tea Estate will be greatly benefitted from this Substation.

Harchura (2 × 2.5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (5 MVA) Substation and is located in Daflagarh Tea Estate in Sonitpur District. The facility will be constructed in the Tea Estate land and falls under the administrative control of Tejpur Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 5 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 8 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate at the Balipara 33 kV Grid Substation. The proposed location of the new substation will feed power to four numbers of tea estates in particular and more than 7000 people will be greatly benefitted from this Substation.

Thelamara ( Erabari) (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located Near Highway 52 in Sonitpur District. The facility will be constructed in the Government Land and falls under the administrative control of Tejpur Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 1.5 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 12 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from LILO of Depota-Khekiajuli 33 kV. The Dhekiajuli town is showing steady growth and the route length of the feeder catering to this area is over 90kM long and the consequent voltage regulation and losses can be well imagined. There are about three tea gardens in this area who are mostly dependent on their captive generation plant due to the unreliability of power supply. By construction of this Substation, reliable and quality power supply can be assured and such important and high-value consumers can be brought back to our system.

Boginadi (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located near Highway 52, North East of North Lakhimpur town in Lakhimpur District. The facility will be constructed in the Government Land and falls under the administrative control of Lakhimpur Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 20 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 16 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Nalkata GSS. The 11kV Naoboicha feeder is over 150 km long and has a peak load of about 1.8 MW. Consequently the voltage regulation of the long 11kV line feeding this area is very poor leading to high losses. By construction of Boginadi Substation change in the quality of life of the 3300 consumers living here can be envisaged. At the same time the town and rural feeder can be segregated. Naoboicha (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

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This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located near Naoboicha Town and Highway 52, south-west of North Lakhimpur town in Lakhimpur District. The facility will be constructed in a land acquired from a Private Tea Estate and falls under the administrative control of Lakhimpur Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 10 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 6 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from LILO of Nalkata-Lakhimpur line. Presently power is distributed through 1x10+1x5 MVA, 33/11kV Ramanichuk substation and peak recorded is 8.1 MW. Further, the location of the existing substation is in extreme west resulting poor voltage regulation and increasing losses. The new proposal will improve the voltage profile as well as cater the expected load growth to the tune of 5 MW.

Bhaga (2 × 2.5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (5 MVA) Substation and is located near Lakhipur City in Cachar District. The facility will be constructed in a private land and falls under the administrative control of Cachar Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 10 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 10 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Kabuganju 33/11kV Substation.The Lailapur feeder is over 100 kM long with very poor voltage regulation and has frequent interruption. By construction of this Substation and diverting the load of Lailapur feeder with a peak load of about 1.8MW to this Substation, uninterrupted and reliable power supply can be ensured for the consumers of Kabuganj. At the same time the consumers of Bhaga area will be having improved voltage regulation as the line length is expected to be reduced by at least 50 km. the number of beneficiaries will be around 3400 consumer households.

Lamajuar (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located Karimgnaj City in Cachar District. The facility will be constructed in a private land and falls under the administrative control of Cachar Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 2 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 16 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from LILO of Panchgram-Karimganu 33 kV Line. The Karimganj Substation from which this area is catered to, has a peak load demand of 8 MW ie transformers are loaded above 90%. This area is fed from the Silchar Road feeder which has a peak load of 2MW. Similarly about 2MW of load from the Badarpur feeder emanating from Badarpur 33/11kV SS which is over 100kM long can be transferred to this Substation. By shifting part of its load to this new Substation, the existing Substations at Badarpur and Karimganj will be able to meet the future load demand, at the same time segregation of urban and rural feeders will become possible. This will be beneficial for both consumers of Karimganj Town and Badarpur area and it will be conducive to growth of commercial and industrial activities. The total no of consumers benefitting from this Substation will be around 7800 households.

Chirukandi ( Rangpur) (2 × 10 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and is located north west of Silchar in Cachar District. The facility will be constructed in a private land and falls under the administrative control of Cachar Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 5 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 12 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Srikona 33/11kV Substation. Load demand of Rongpur area of Silchar town is catered to by Malinibeel and Udarband Substation and both these Substations are getting saturated with little scope for augmentation to meet the future load demand by 2011-12. The 63 km long Silchar feeder from Udarband Substation has a

30 peak load of 2.5 MW, 1MW load from this feeder and 1MW from the Feeder no 5 of Malinibeel SS can be transferred to this new proposed SS at Rongpur. Construction of this Substation has become necessary to relieve the load of Malinibeel SS and at the same time making possible the segregation of rural and urban 11 kV feeders. The no of beneficiaries will be around 10000.

Bhadoli Pasali (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located near Duliajan City in Dibrugarh District. The facility will be constructed in a private land and falls under the administrative control of Dibrugarh Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 18 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 16 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Bordubi GSS. Bordubi Substation is at present overloaded having to meet a demand of 7MW. The Shanti and Nauhalia feeder catering to this area is over 80 KM long; the poor voltage regulation can be well imagined. Therefore the construction of this Substation has become imperative to relieve the existing Bordubi 33/11kV Substation and by decreasing the length of the 11kV feeders, quality and reliable power supply from both these two Substations can be ensured. Therefore, the Tea garden consumers can also be benefited.

Dibrugarh-II (2 × 10 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and is near Kutuha in Dibrugarh Town. The facility will be constructed in a land owned by a Tea State but no tea plants are grown at the moment. The proposed facility falls under the administrative control of Dibrugarh Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 10 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 6 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Behiating GSS.The proposed substation near Kutuha will give relief to the present 33/11kV Dibrugarh and Behiating substations in particular and will cater the load growth in general. Reduction in loading of existing substations will reduce the Transmission and Distribution losses. The targeted peak demand of the Substation will be 6.0 MW by the year 2012-13 .

MVA Tinsukiya-II (2 × 10 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and is located near Panitola Town in Tinsukiya District. The facility will be constructed in a Government Land. The proposed facility falls under the administrative control of Tinsukiya Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 5 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 8 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Tinsukia GSS. Presently power is distributed from existing 3x5MVA, 33/11kV Tinsukia and 2x10 MVA, 33/11kV Tinsukia Electric Supply substation and present peak demand of the substations are 8.0MW & 10.5 MW respectively. One new station of 2x5 MVA, 33/11kV substation is recently commissioned under ABY scheme which will basically take care of area falling under Dibrugarh district. Expecting the increasing load growth AEGCL is going to upgrade the Tinsukia grid to a capacity of 2x40 MVA. Thus for evacuation of power from Tinsukia Grid S/S and cater load growth in 11kV as well as in LT, the new substation is proposed with 2x10 MVA capacity. The peak demand expected at the end of 2012-13 will be 7.0 MW.

Na Pukhuri (2 × 10 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and is located at the outskirts of Tinsukiya City. The facility will be constructed in a Government Land. The proposed facility falls under the administrative control of Tinsukia Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 5 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 8 km of 11 kV line going out of

31 it. The 33 kV line will originate from Tinsukia GSS. This is mainly Tea Garden area and reliable and quality power supply has not been possible in this area as the feeders to this area are long. Interruptions are also quite high. Substantial load from the Napukhuri, Flour Mill and Deohal feeders can be transferred to this newly created Substation improving the voltage regulation and ensuring uninterrupted power supply to this area. By the construction of this Substation over 9000 consumers as of now will be benefitted.

Pengeri (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located at the south-east corner of the Tinsukia District. The facility will be constructed in a Tea Garden Land already handed over to the Government. The proposed facility falls under the administrative control of Tinsukia Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 18 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 16 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Margherita 33/11kV Substation. This is mainly Tea Garden area and reliable and quality power supply has not been possible in this area. The area is mainly fed from Margherita 2x10MVA, 33/11 kV substation through 36 kM Bordumsa feeder. Because of poor voltage regulation and frequent interruptions the consumers are reluctant to draw power and this way the APDCL is losing a huge revenue. This substation is basically proposed to induce HT category of consumers which ultimately will reduce the T & D loss.

Cinnamora (2 × 10 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (20 MVA) Substation and is located at southern part of the of Jorhat City. The facility will be constructed in a Government owned Tea Garden. The proposed facility falls under the administrative control of Jorhat Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 15 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 8 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Mariani GSS. The sub-project area is fed from the Lichubari SS and right of way issues may occur if the Substation is not constructed now. The construction of this Substation will also ensure quality and reliable power supply to the six tea gardens located in this area and their dependency on their own captive generation plant can be reduced and the high value consumers will be back in the system. The expected peak demand by the end of 2012-13 will be 4.0 MW.

Jorhat By-pass (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation and is located at north-western part of the Jorhat City. The facility will be constructed in a Government land. The proposed facility falls under the administrative control of Jorhat Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 12 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 8 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Jorhat (West) GSS. Presently Jorhat city is mainly dependent upon the only 2x5+1x10MVA, 33/11kV, Jorhat substation. The proposed Substation will be a part of evacuation of power from AEGCL network in general and to cater the load growth and reduction of sub-transmission loss in particular. The expected peak demand by the end of 2012-13 will be more than 4.0 MW.

Panichokuwa (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation which is located at Panichokuwa town about about 20 km south west of Jorhat City. The facility will be constructed in a Government land. The proposed facility falls under the administrative control of Jorhat Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 0.3 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 10 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Jorhat (West) GSS. Presently power is distributed from the Pulibor-I, 1x3.15 MVA substation. Pulibor-I cannot be upgraded due to land constraint and APDCL will have to withdraw this

32 unmanned substation in near future. Again, the load center is very nearer to proposed new substation. The peak load targeted is 3.0 MW by the end of 2012-13. Further, this substation will be a part of evacuating power from AEGCL‘s new substation.

Golaghat II (2 × 5 MVA) Substation

This will be a 33kV/11kV (10 MVA) Substation which is located at ASEB Complex in Golaghat City. The facility will be constructed in a Government owned land. The proposed facility falls under the administrative control of Jorhat Electrical Circle. The Sub project component includes a 6 km long 33 kV line feeding the Substation and 8 km of 11 kV line going out of it. The 33 kV line will originate from Golaghat GSS. The sub-project area is mostly dominated by tea estates and a business hub for nearby Nagaland state. Presently power is distributed from existing Golaghat substation and newly constructed Jonakinagar substation under Assam Bikash Yojana. But the western stretch of the tea township is facing acute voltage problem and un-reliable power. To ease the present problem and to cater the future load growth, this Substation is proposed. Further, this will help evacuation of power from the newly constructed 2x25 MVA, 132/33kV, Golaghat Substation. The peak load targeted at the end of 2012-13 will be around 4.0 MW.

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Annex 2 List of Participants during Field Consultation

Village/SS Site- Panimodi Habigaon/Na Pukhuri, District : Tinsukiya

Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation

1 Dhruba Borai Service 2 Bonti Chhetia Housewife 3 Keshob hajarika Farmer 4 Jitu Chhetia Farmer 5 Polash chhetia Farmer 6 Girin Chhetia Farmer 7 Kabitap Chhetia Housewife 8 Tulika Hazarika Housewife 9 Lilaboti Hazarika Housewife 10 Kalpana Chhetia Housewife 11 Ananda Chhetia service 12 R Sengupta Service 13 Ajit hazarika cultivation 14 Pabitra Sonwal cultivation 15 Bhaskar Phukan service 16 S Dorga cultivation 17 D Chhetia cultivation

Village/SS Site – Deodhar District - Nagaon Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 1 Bikash barpujari service 2 Nripen Borah Agriculture 3 Mahendra Banai Service 4 Mridul k Borah unemployed 5 Tapan Bora unemployed 6 Raju saikia unemployed 7 Ujen Bora unemployed 8 Chandra Saikia Agriculture 9 S Sahoo Consultant 10 M Bora Service 11 Sakil Uttam driver 12 Mohesh Borkatia Agriculture

Village/Site – Padumoni/Vadoi Pasali District : Dibrugarh

Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 1 Pranab Bora Service 2 S Sahoo Consultant 3 S N Pachaui Service 4 S.N Gogoi Business 5 Gopal Gogoi Business 6 S Dutta Business

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Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 7 Harendra nath Mech Service 8 Sarat baruah Business 9 Hemant Neog -Business 10 Mrs J Gogoi Service 11 Naba rah Konwar Business 12 Manjit Rava Business 13 Lintu Mech Business 14 Mina K Mech Housewife 15 Kalyan Gogoi Business 16 Bhaskar Gogoi Business 17 Atul Mech Service 18 Mitun Mech Business 19 Aditi Gogoi Student 20 Manmi Borah Student 21 A Raj Konwar GP Member 22 Mrs Malika Gogoi Business 23 Mrs Niru Mech Housewife 24 Hem Chandra Borah Service

Village/SS Site – Salmara/North Salmar District : Bongaigaon Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 1 Dwijendra Kr Borah Service 2 Jayant Baruah Member ZP 3 Bimal K Chaudhury Service 4 Apurba Singh Service 5 Nirupam Ray Service 6 Ghanashyama Ray Business 7 Arun Ray Business 8 Rupam Ray Business 9 Mina Baruah Housewife 10 Srimati Narzary AWW 11 Alaka Dutta Housewife 12 Jibendra Baruah Business 13 Jagadish Ch Ray Cultivation 14 Bimala Ray Member GP 15 Kanak L Ray Member GP

Village- Lakshmi Nagar/Dibrugarh II District - Dibrugarh Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 1 Prafulla Das Ex serviceman 2 Dulal Bora Daily labour 3 Dipali Sonwal Teacher 4 Karuna K Bora Service 5 Dharma K Bhuiyan Service 6 Ruhilal Sanysi Business

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Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 7 Saisya Phukan Business 8 Md Saukat Hussain Business 9 Ravindra Kalita Business 10 K Sonwal Business 11 Mini K Das Housewife 12 Padma Sonwal Unemployed 13 S Phukan Business 14 P B dean Business 15 Maya Boruah AWW 16 Dimbeswar Sonwal Business 17 P Sikia Business 18 Krishna Deori Business 19 Naren Gogoi Business 21 Debojit Chhetri Business 21 Ranjit Baruah Business 22 Basant Bhuain Business 23 A Das Business 24 Pobitra Gogoi Business 25 Ranjit Sonwal Business 26 G Sonwal Business

Village/SS Site – Thelamara District : Sonitpur Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 1 Sri Jukti pr kalita Service 2 Smt Rupali Saikia Housewife 3 Smt deepali saikia Housewife 4 Smt Nomali Saikia Housewife 5 Potoli Das Housewife 6 Jyoti saikia Housewife 7 Kulo Saikia Housewife 8 Nizara Saikia Housewife 9 Bina Das Housewife 10 Ananda Deka Service 11 Bedanta Hazarika Social Worker 12 Dharmeswar Hazarika Savareman 13 Trikendrtrika Hazarika Student 14 Md Salidijan Service 15 Ainul Haque unemployed 16 Tinku Dev Shopkeeper 17 Nizam Alii LIC Agent 18 Sri Ghana Hazarika Student 19 Sri Phuleswar Das Stdent 20 Mira Das Housewife 21 Rumi Saikia Housewife 22 Pradeep K Nath Student leader 23 Lochan Hazarika Social Worker

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Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 24 Nibarova Hazarika -do- 25 Kivash Borah -do-

Village/SS Site – Borgaon/Borka District : Kamrup Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 1 Arbinda Deka Service 2 Ananta ram Baishya Cultivation 3 Tapan Kumar das -do- 4 Dadhi Talukdar service 5 Dinesh rajbongshi Teacher 6 Dipesh rajbongshi Cultivation 7 Swadhin Das -do- 8 Dipak das -do- 9 Mamoni Das Housewife 10 Labanya das Ex service 11 Gopal das Labourer 12 Avijit Deka -do- 13 Moina das housewife 14 Purnima Das -do- 15 Srikant Das Cultivation 16 Khagen Das -do- 17 Khushal Das -do- 18 Golak Das -do- 19 Kabita Das housewife 20 Bijoy das cultivation

Village/SS Site- Jatiya District - Kamrup Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 1 Samim Ahuja Service 2 Luna mani Das Housewife 3 Sirrojiddin Ahmed service 4 Munindra K nath -do- 5 Bhubaneswar das -do- 6 Pramod nath cultivation 7 Nanda Ram Das service 8 Basirudin ahmed Business 9 Kanak Das Service 10 Alli Hussain Business 11 Kastik Roy cultivation 12 Atul kailash Service 13 Narayan sarma cultivation 14 Srikrishna Baishya Service 15 Kusra patar Service 16 Gopal Thakaria Service 17 M. Dewan cultivation 18 A Laskar Service

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Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 19 B.J. Das Cultivation 20 Dependra Kr sarma Service 21 Upendra barman Service

Village/SS Site- Konwar Para/Mongol Doi District - Darang Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 1 Amarjyoti Bhagwati service 2 Dimbeswar Das service 3 Tilak Deka Business 4 Ramani mohan Sarma service 5 Janekswar Sarma service 6 Md Samsur Ali service 7 Sri Hareswar nath service 8 Sri Nirojoyee Boro service 9 Anupam Deka Business 10 Sri Chandan Seharia service 11 Nila service 12 Deepali Saikia Business 13 Manik Deka service 14 Siba Baruah Business 15 Raja Ali Business 16 Pradip Baishya Business 17 Akan Nath service 18 Haren Kalita service

Village/SS Site –Paichara/Ghagrapur District- Nalbari Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 1 Kulesh Sarma Service 2 Kalicharan Das Agriculture 3 Bubul K Das Business 4 Naser Ali Agriculture 5 Baliram Bezbarua Business 6 Dimbeswar Bezbaruah Labourer 7 Didar hussein labourer 8 Suman Boro Agriculture 9 Sibsaran Bezbaruah sevice 10 Hakim Boro Service 11 Sitra Bezbaruah Service 12 Anil Bezbaruah Student 13 Latifa Begub Housewife 14 Khargeswar Bezbaruah Business 15 Haliram Bezbaruah Labourer 16 B.K. Kalita Agriculture 17 Manoj talukdar Business 18 Jatinra Nath Deka Service

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Sl. Nº Name of the Participant Occupation 19 Pahar Ali Agriculture 20 Azad Ali Labourer 21 Farmud ali Labourer

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