Environmental Assessment Report

Environmental Impact Assessment Project Number: 37139-02 January 2010

IND: Uttaranchal Power Sector Investment Program – Subproject 1

Prepared by Water Resources Development & Management for the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

The environmental impact assessment 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.

EIA & EMP REPORT

FOR

PROPOSED SOBLA-I SMALL HYDRO POWER PROJECT

ON

SOBLA GAD A PROJECT OF

UTTARANCHAL JAL VIDUT NIGAM LTD. Maharani Bagh, GMS Road, Dehradun DISTRICT DEHRADUN – 248 001 (U.K.)

Prepared by : Water Resources Development & Management

Indian Institute of Technology, ROORKEE. Ph : 01332-285774 Fax : 271073

Draft Report CONTENTS

Sl. No. Contents Page No.

1. Introduction 1-9

2. Description of the Project 10-17

3. Description of the Present Environment 18-66

4. Alternatives 67-69

5. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures 70-82

6. Economic Assessment 83-89

7. Environment Management Plan 90-110

8. Disaster Management Plan 111-122

9. EMP Implementation and Monitoring 123-124

10. Conclusion* -

Remark

*Conclusion will be submitted final report

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We are grateful to the Management of UJVNL, Dehradun, U. K. for appointing us as a Consultant for EIA/EMP study for proposed Small Hydel Power Project at Sobla, Distt. Pithoragrah, Uttarakhand.

We are happy to convey our deep sense of gratitude, appreciation and thankfulness for the unstinted co-operation continuously extended to us by Chairman UJVNL Sri Yogendra Prasad and the Managing Director Sri. R.P. Thapliyal.

We also express our thanks, to Mr. S.K. Rastogi former G.M. S.H.P., Mr. Arvind Kumar G.M. S.H.P., Mr. S.C. Baluni D.G.M. ADB Project and other staff members of UJVNL, Dehradun and Dharchula, for the unstinted co-operation continuously extended to us by them.

We also express our thanks to villagers, census department, Forest Department, PHED, Irrigation department, Statistical department, Wild Life of India, and Indian Meteorological Department for providing us necessary information and congenial atmosphere during study.

It is my pleasant duty to thank our Team of experts from the Deptt. of Water Resources Development Management (WRDM) Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee: Mr. Pradeep Nagrath, Er. A.K. Kakkar, Dr. S.C. Sharma and Dr. Nripendra Kumar Singh, Mr. Shrikant Singh who have assisted in preparing this report. We are also thankful to the supporting staff especially Mohd. Nadeem, Jagdish Bhatt, Ravi Kumar whose contribution is significant.

Devadutta Das

Date : WRDM, IIT Place : ROORKEE List of Tables

Table No. Particulars Page No. 1.1 Installed capacity of power 2 1.2 Percentage of hydro share in total installed capacity 3 1.3 Region wise hydro power capacity 3 1.4 Sector wise hydro power capacity 3 1.5 Plan of UJVNL in Uttarakhand 4 1.6 Litho tectonic sucession of Kumaun Himalya 7 2.1 Classification of Hydro Power Station 11 3.1 Likely impacts of the project 19-20 3.2 Environmental attributes and frequency of monitoring 20 3.3 Altitude wise prevailing climate 22 3.4 Prevailing wind direction and average cloud cover 23 3.5 Average Temperature, Humidity, Wind Speed & Predominant 23 wind direction during April-May 09 3.6 Mean monthly temperature (in 0C) at Dharchula (1972-78) 24 3.7 Mean monthly rainfall (in cm) at Dharchula (1972-78) 24 3.8 Details of Ambient Air Sampling Locations 25 3.9 Ambient Air Sampling Schedule 26 3.10 Summarized Air Quality Data 26 3.11 National Ambient Air Quality Standard 27 3.12 Ground Water Sampling Location with distance & direction 28 from Sobla 3.13 Surface Water Sampling Location with distance & direction 28 from Sobla 3.14-3.18 Results of underground water analysis 29-33 319-3.21 Results of surface water analysis 34-36 3.22 Water Quality Criteria as per CPCB Guidelines for aquatic 37 Resources 3.23 Ambient Noise Monitoring Location 38 3.24 Summarized Noise Level (dB) data of various locations 38 3.25 Ambient Quality norms in respect of noise 38 3.26 Soil sampling locations 39 3.27 Physical properties of soil 39 3.28 Chemical properties of soil 40 3.29 Available Nutrients in Soil 40 3.30 Rating of soil 41 3.31 Exchangeable Cations 41 3.32 Available Micronutrients in Soil 41 3.33 Critical Limits 42 3.34 Land Use Pattern of Pithoragarh district 42 3.35 Land use pattern of Dharchula block 43 3.36 Land requirement for the project 43 3.37 Geographical indicators 44 3.38 Size of block and No. of family 45 3.39 Population details of Pithoragarh district 45 3.40 Population statistics of Dharchula block 46 3.41 Literacy rate of the state district wise (2001 census) 46 3.42 Literacy rate of Pithoragarh district 47 3.43 Literacy rate of Dharchula (2001 census) 47 3.44 School and college available in Dharchula block 48 3.45 Population wise no. of villages in Dharchula block & 48 Pithoragarh distt. 3.46 Economical distribution of population 48 3.47 Health facilities available in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh 49 distt. 3.48 Details of electrified villages and available roads in 49 Dharchula block & Pithoragarh distt. 3.49 Other facilities like Post Office, Telegraph Office, PCO and 49 Telephone available in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh distt. 3.50 Population Statistics of surveyed villages 50 3.51 Size of Holding 50 3.52 Occupational Pattern of Selected Households. 50 3.53 Cooking Fuel Used 51 3.54 Animal available in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh district 51 3.55 Disease and their proportion found in surveyed villages 52 3.56 Family Budgets 53 3.57 Irrigation facilities in Dharchula block and Pithoragarh 54 district

3.58 Irrigated land area in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh district 54 3.59 Size of Land Holding 54 3.60 Use of Agricultural tools, fertilizer and No. of wear house for 55 seed & fertilizer storage 3.61 Area under important crops in Dharchula block and 55 Pithoragarh district 3.62 Area under important crops in Dharchula block and 56 Pithoragarh district 3.63 Average productivity of important crops Pithoragarh district 56 3.64 Productivity of important crops Pithoragarh district 57 3.65 Van Panchayat Status in Uttarakhand 58 3.66 Habitat and other species associated meadow vegetation 62 3.67 List of flora found in study area 63-64 3.68 List of Fauna found in study area 65 3.69 Fish dwelling in rivers of project surrounding area 66 5.0 Emission level from Coal Fired Power Plants (tons/Yr.) 70 5.1 Extent of tree removal 72 5.2 Ambient status Impact wise mg/m3 73 5.3 Expected Noise Emissions 74 5.4 Water quality standards for fresh water classification 75 5.5 Effluent Discharge stands (Inland surface water) 76 6.1 Cost Estimate (Reconstruction of Sobla SHP) 83-84 6.2 Cost estimate for the implementation of EMP 85 6.3 Cost estimated for catchment area treatment work 85 6.4 Cost estimates for the implementation of DMP 86 6.5 Direct Employment and Income Generation during 87 construction period 6.6 Direct Employment and Income generation during operation 88 period 7.1 Magnitude of anticipated impacts and proposed Environment 92-95 Management Plan 7.2 Proposed management plan (phase wise) 96-101 8.1 Important Telephone no. of Govt. Officials 122 9.1 Monitoring/Analytical Equipment/required for Project 124 List of Figures

(At the end of Report)

Fig. No. Particulars 1.1 Political Map of Pithoragarh 1.2 Proposed site marked in trekking map of Kumaun Hills 1.2(A) The proposed site and location of Askot Sanctuary and Nanda Devi Bio Sphere Reserve and Ecological resources of Pithoragarh Distt. 1.3 The physiographic-lithotectonic domains separated by intracrustal boundary thrusts of regional simension most of these thrust faults are active. 1.4 Simplified Geological map of the Lesser Kumaun Himalaya (After Valdiya, 1980b) 1.5 Occurrence of various mineral deposit in Kumaun in the context of Geological formations. 1.6 Relief Map of Uttarakhand 1.7 Drainage network of Kumaun showing different hydrographic regimes and their typical drainage basins. 1.8 Forest Map of Uttrakhand State 1.9 Seismic zoning map of India 2.1 General Layout Plan of Sobla – I Small HEP 5.1 Impact Identification Matrix for proposed Small Hydro Power Project of UJVNL on Sobla Gad at Saobla, Pithoragarh 8.1 Emergency Management Organization Chart List of Plates

(At the end of Report)

Plate No. Plates details

Plate 1 (A) A view of land sliding at Chautuldhar

(B) Water sampling on Sobla Gad

Plate 2 (A) Surface water sampling on Dhauli Ganga

(B) Water sampling at village Dar

Plate 3 (A) Ambient Noise Monitoring in village Dar

(B) Ambient Noise Monitoring at diversion site

Plate 4 (A) Soil sampling at village Khairi Gaon

(B) Soil sampling at village Dar

Plate 5 (A) Socio economic survey work at Sobla

(A) Socio economic survey at site

Abbreviations

Sl. No. Abbreviation Full Form

1. AAQMS Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station 2. AE Assistant Engineer 3. ADB Asian Development Bank 4. BOD Biological Oxygen Demand 5. BPL Below Poverty Line 6. CIC Chief Incident Controller 7. CO Carbon Monoxide 8. CPCB Central Pollution Control Board 9. CFC Chlro floro Carbon 10. CEC Chief Emergency, Co-ordinator 11. CFC Chloro Fluoro Carbon 12. CAT Catchment Area Treatment 13. DB Decibel Audible 14. DMP Disaster Management Plant 15. DO Dissolved Oxygen 16. EE Executive Engineer 17. EAG Environment Action Group 18. EPG Environment Planning Group 19. ECC Emergency Control Centre 20. ECO Emergency Co-ordinator Officer 21. EIA Environmental Impact Assessment 22. EIU Environmental Impact Unit 23. EMP Environment Management Plant 24. EPO Emergency Planning Officer 25. EQ Environmental Quality 26. EPG Emergency Planning Group 27. EAG Emergency Action Group 28. EMD Environment Management Department 29. FD Forest Division 30. GOI Government of India 31. HFL High Flood Level 32. IA Implementing Agency 33. IED Integrated Education Development 34. IIT Indian Institute of Technology 35. IMD Indian Metrological Department 36. IS Indian Standard 37. MBT Main Boundary Thrust 38. MCT Main Central Thrust 39. MoEF Ministry of Environment & Forest 40. MoP Ministry of Power 41. MSL Mean Sea Level 42. NOx Oxides of Nitrogen 43. NDBR Nanda Devi Bio-sphere Reserve 44. O&M Operation & Maintenance 45. PIU Parameter Importance Unit 46. PFR Preliminary Feasibility Report 47. PTCUL Power Transmission Corporation of Uttaranchal Limited 48. RoW Right of Way 49. RMU Rehabilitation and Modernization 50. RSPM Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter 51. SHP Small Hydel Project

52. SO2 Sulphur Dioxide 53. SC Schedule Cast 54. ST Schedule Tribe 55. SPCB State Pollution Control Board 56. SPM Suspended Particulate Matter 57. TLV Threshhold Limit Value 58. UEPPCB Uttaranchal Environment Protection & Pollution Control Board 59. UJVNL Uttaranchal Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd. 60. UPCL Uttaranchal Power Corporation Limited

EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

CHAPTER – 1

1.0 Introduction

1.1 General

The new state of Uttrakhand came into being on 9th November 2000, in accordance to the Uttar Pradesh reorganization Act, 2000. The new state of Uttrakhand has been formed out of the existing twelve hill districts of Garhwal and Kumaon division. In addition one more district of Haridwar has been included in new state of Uttrakhand. The state borders with Nepal and Tibet on the east, Central Himalayas on the north, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh on the west and northwest respectively. The region in conspicuously different from the plains of Uttar Pradesh due to its topography, soil, climate, relief, vegetation, language, culture and historical background.

Geophysically the state has four Mountain Zones namely Foot hills, Lesser Himalayas, Greater Himalayas and Trans-Himalayas. The mountains are covered with perpetual snow and glaciers and have gifted the north India a perennial river system of the Ganga and its tributaries. The tributaries of Ganga, namely Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Yamuna and Sarda originate from the foothills of snow capped peaks and glaciers in the Central Himalayas and incise their respective courses through the rugged terrain, splash and surge the steep gradients and most of the stream offer excellent potential for Hydro power development.

The state is divided into Kumaon and Garhwal Divisions with 13 districts, 42 tehsils, 95 blocks and 15689 inhabited villages and 73 towns. The State has a geographical area of 53119 sq. km which is 1.62% of the total area of the country and supports 84.8 lakh populations which is 0.83% the total population of India. The percentage of villages having population more than 500 is about 11.4% (1991 Census). The existing majority smaller settlements of Uttarakhand pose a serious challenge for economic infrastructure and lack of services to the far flung places in the hilly terrain makes Uttarakhand as one of the extremely backward states of India.

It has 76.1% electrified villages as compared to 75.3% of villages of U.P. The average per capita consumption of electricity is 245.57 kwh, whereas Mukteshwar and Nainital consume 480.81 and 447.33 kwh respectively with a minimum consumption of 43.7 kwh in Uttarkashi.

The hill region of districts are less developed in terms of infrastructure i.e. electricity, roads and irrigation. The inter district inequality in infrastructure leads to increasing disparity in terms of

1 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL income and livelihood between the hills and the plain. Low levels of income not only result in low levels of consumption and material derivation, but also constrain human potential by restricting access to education and health facilities thereby creating a vicious cycle of poverty.

1.2 Power Scenario in India

India, currently generates about 83% of its electricity from conventional thermal power plants and about 14% from hydroelectric plants (mainly located in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the northeast). GOI has launched a 50,000 MW hydroelectric initiative. In Uttarakhand, approximately $4 billion will be invested over the near term in transmission and distribution systems, new power plant development, and hydropower rehabilitation and modernization (RMU).

Uttarakhand has little or no fossil fuel resources. It is focusing on developing hydropower and associated transmission systems for evacuation and export. Currently a net importer of electric power, the state plans to be a net exporter by 2010. Hydropower potential is approximately 20,000 MW, of which 16,500 MW is well defined and technically viable operating at 1,160 MW and about 5,525 MW is under construction.

1.3 Hydro Power Share

At present the hydro power share in the total installed capacity in the country accounts for 26%. The total installed capacity of the country is 1,26,839 MW presented in table 1.1.

Table 1.1 Installed Capacity of power Sl.No. Fuel Capacity (MW) % 1. Total Thermal 83,772 66 (i) Coal 68,988 54.4 (ii) Gas 13,582 10.7 (iii) Oil 1,202 0.09 2. Hydro 32,976 26.0 3. Nuclear 3,900 3.1 4. Renewable 6,191 4.9 Total 1,26,839

The position of hydro share in the total installed capacity over successive plan periods is presented in table 1.2.

2 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Table 1.2 Percentage of Hydro Share in total installed capacity

1956 65 - 66 78 - 79 89 - 90 As on 31st July 06 Hydro Share % of the 36.78 45.68 40.60 28.77 26.0 total installed Capacity

Presently total hydro power capacity of India is 32,976 MW. Region and sector wise installed hydro power capacity in India are presented in table 1.3 and 1.4.

Table 1.3 - Region wise Hydro Power capacity (as on 31.07.2006) Sl. No. Region Capacity (MW) 1. Northern 11520.3 2. Western 6798.8 3. Southern 11004.35 4. Eastern 2429.35 5. North Eastern 1094.7 Total 32847.5

Table 1.4 - Sector wise Hydro Power capacity (as on 31.07.2006) Sl. No. Region Capacity (MW) 1. Central 9256.7 2. State 22445.35 3. Private 1136.45 Total 32847.5

Three government units serve as leading agencies: Uttaranchal Power Corporation Limited (UPCL) is responsible for distribution at 33 kilovolts (kv) and lower. PTCUL develops and operates high voltage transmission lines and substations from 132–400 kv, and UJVNL is responsible for hydropower generation assets, including management of private sector participation.

1.4 Hydro Power Development in Uttrakhand

1.4.1 Hydro and Thermal Power Ratio The main resources for generating electricity are by utilising the hydro potential available along the river drops, besides the use of fossil fuel. Presently the ratio of thermal generation and

3 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Hydro-electric generation in Uttarakhand Power grid is quite disproportionate. With the diminishing coal resources and difficult oil position all over the world, it is necessary that electric generation be aimed to achieve the economic balance of 40:60 between the hydro and thermal generation of power, as against the existing 25:75 ratio.

1.4.2 Small Hydro Power Generation: UK Scenario

The requirement of power in Uttarakhand is very fluctuating because of many seasonal and other similar demands of industries. To improve the share of hydro-power generation it is essential to develop the hydroelectric power potential of state.

Uttaranchal Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (UJVNL) was incorporated as a Company by the Government of Uttarakhand on 14th February 2001, under the Companies Act 1956. UJVNL manages hydropower generation at existing power stations, organizes development and promotion of new hydropower projects with the purpose of harnessing already identified and yet to be identified hydro power resources of the State of Uttarakhand. UJVNL is among of the large hydropower companies of the country operating more than 34 power stations of different sizes ranging from 0.2 MW to 304 MW with a combined capacity of 1305.9 MW and of different vintages up to 100 years. Currently, UJVNL is in the process of developing 14 new large hydropower projects and 16 new small hydropower projects.

The existing installed generating capacity in the State is about 3140 MW which is contributed by hydro generation. There is no thermal power station in the state.

1.4.3 Power plan

In Uttarakhand the estimated potential of small hydro projects is app. 1478 MW. Out of which UJVNL is operating nearly 53.75 MW. The plan of UJVNL is detailed in table 1.5.

Table 1.5 – Plan of UJVNL in Uttarakhand Sl.No. Status No. of Projects Capacity (MW) 1. Under Operation 34 1305.90 2. Under Construction 7 39.5 3. Under Development 7 39.1 4. Under RMU 5 992.3 5. Project under Rehabilitation 1 8.0 Total Capacity 2384.8

4 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Before separation from Uttar Pradesh, 32 small hydro projects of a total capacity about 182 MW were allocated to private developers by the UP Government. These projects are in various stages of development and some of them will be commissioned soon. Uttarakhand Govt. has allocated 8 small hydro projects of a total capacity of 85MW to 57 private developers. Apart from these, 35 nos. of small hydro projects (capacity ranging from 0.4 MW to 25 MW) of a total capacity 175 MW are still available for allocation to private developers.

1.5 Present Studies

With a view to among the large number of identified schemes harness vast untapped hydro resources in the order of their attractiveness for implementation, ranking studies were carried out by UJVNL. The GOI with ADB financial assistance directed for the process development of new hydro power projects of which Sobla hydel project is a part is covered under rehabilitation in the state of Uttarakhand. The project will support not only increased generation of power but also strength an the economic development.

In order to achieve the above objective the UJVNL has entrusted WRDM, IIT, Roorkee to carryout an EIA/EMP study for Sobla – I SHP on Sobla Gad located at Sobla in Dharchula tehsil of Pithoragarh Distt., as detailed in the subsequent Chapters.

1.6 About Pithoragarh

Pithoragarh is the eastern-west Himalayan district in the state of Uttrakhand. It is a natural landscape with high Himalayan mountains, snow capped peaks, passes, valleys, alpine meadows, forests, waterfalls, Perennial rivers, glaciers and springs. The flora and funna of this area is rich in ecological diversity. The geographical area of the district is 7169 km2, with a total population of the district is 4,62,149 the total literacy rate is 76.48 percent Pithoragarh town, which is located in Sour. Figure 1.1 shows the proposed site.

1.7 The Project Area

The Sobla - I SHP is located on the Sobla Gad river at Sobla which is a tributary of Dhauli Ganga River originating at Panchachulli Glacier at an attitude of 4260 mtr. and meeting with Kali river before Tawaghat. The Kali is the largest river of Kumaun and forms a natural boundry between Kumaun and Nepal. Encompassing the largest drainage area, the Kali has two headwaters (a) the Kalapani originating on the slope of Indo-Tibetan waterdivide near Lipulekh Pass at an elevation of about 4,266 m, and (b) the kuti on the west, which carries water three

5 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL times greater in volume than the Kalapani. The Kuti originates from a small glacier at the base of the Lampia Pass south through Garbyang to Tanakpur. Figure 1.2 and 1.2 (A) indicates proposed site and location of Askot Sanctuary and Nanda Devi Bio Sphere Reserve and Ecological resources of site of Pithoragarh Distt.

In fact Sobla is the entrance point of Darma valley of Dharchulla tehsil of Kumaon region. It lies at the borders area of Tibet in the north and Nepal in the east. The entire valley lies at an altitude between 7500 and 14000 ft. The valley extend to about 100 km. from Sobla to Dhave beyond the last inhabited village Tidang near Tibet border. The entire valley has rich plant bio-diversity.

1.8 Down Stream Projects Detail

There are two main in down stream projects which detail are as follows. 1. Dhauliganga stage I HEP – 280 MW Project under operation and EIA clearance given by GOI. 2. Dhualiganga stage II HEP – 120 M Project and & study is under investigation

1.9 Geology and Mineral Resources of Kumaun

Kumaun Himalya comprises all the four latitudnal zones identified on the basis of varied geotectonic and physiographic feaures. These lithotectonic zones are seprated by the tectonically active boundry thrusts. Physiographic lithotectonic division is presented in figure 1.3 at the end of report.

The Sub-Himalayan Zone north of the Ganga Plains is demarcated in the north by the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT). This subprovince of the Siwalik is autochthonous in nature comprising mainly sandstones, shales and conglomerates. The homoclinal unit shows Jura-Type folding and thrusting with intervening synclines filled with subrecent gravels giving rise to the intermontance flat plains or 'duns' in southwestern (Kotabagh-Patkot) part.

The Lesser Himalaya subprovince comprising predominantly unfossiliferous sedimentary rocks of Precambrian to early Palacozoic age is delimited by the Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) in the south and the Main Central Thrust (MCT) in the north. The larger part of Kumaun is made up of Lesser Himalayan sedimentary formations. The vast, imbricately thrust succession of metamorphics of the Ramgarh and Almora Group divide the Lesser Himalaya into two domains. The outer Lesser Himalaya is predominantly made of the sedimentary succession of the Krol

6 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Belt which is thrust over imbricately by Ramgarh and Almora rocks. The rock-formations of the inner Lesser Himalaya comprise the succession Rautgara-Gangolihat-Sor Slate-Thalkedar Limestone and Berinag Quartzite of the Precambrian age. This sedimentary succession is thrust over by the Baijnath-Askot crystallines, occurring in the form of klippen (which were once parts of the huge Almora Group). Geological map of the lesser Kumaun Himalya (after valdiya, 1980) is presented in figure 1.4.

The Great Himalaya is delimited at the base by the Vaikrita Thrust (Main Central Thrust) in the south and the Malari Fault in the north. This hue tectonic slab of the granite-injected katazonal metamorphics of early Precambrain age exhibits homoclinal structures, plastic deformation and superimposed folding. The Tethys Himalaya comprises sedimentary rocks ranging in age form Precambrian to Cretaceous. This complexly deformed zone is demarcated against the Great Himalaya by the steep-dipping Malari Fault. Lithotectonic succession of Kumaun Himalyais presented in table 1.6.

Table 1.6 Lithotectonic Succession of Kumaun Himalya Northern Belt Southern Belt Jungbwa Ultrabasics ------Jungbwa T ------Kiogarh Ophiolitic Melange ------Kiogarh T ------(Precambrian) ------Main Central (Vaikrita)T------Munsiari formation Almora group (Early Precambrian) (with 550 + 50 m.y. granite) ------Munsiari T------Almora T------(Schuppen Zone) Ramgarh Group (With 1900 + 100 m.y. porphyroids) ------T------Ramgarh T------Berinag Formation Krol Succession (Precambrian) (Late Precambrian – Lower Cambrian) ------Berinag T------Krol or Main boundry T------Damtha- Tejam Group Siwalik Group (Precambrian) (late Tertiary) (Base not exposed) ------Himalyan front Fault------Ganga Plain with Bhabhar Fan (quaternary-Recent) Occurrence of various mineral deposits in Kumaun is presented in figure 1.5.

1.10 Climate

The elevation of the district ranges from 500 mtr. Above sea level in the valleys in the south to over 7000 mtr. In the snow bound Himalyas in the north and North West. The climate therefore largely depends on altitude and varies according to aspect and elevation. Although tropical beat

7 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL may be experienced in the southern valleys during the summer, the winters are severe. As most of the district is situated on the southern slopes of the Himalayas, monsoon currents penetrate through the deep valleys and rainfall is at the maximum in the monsoon season (June to September) particularly in the southern half of the district. The northern half of the district also gets considerable rain during the winter season which lasts from mid November to March.

1.11 Soils Soils of the study area have been formed either through pedogenetic processes or are transported soils. The pedogenetic soils are the one which have been formed by long duration of exposure to atmospheric agencies, physical and chemical weathering and rock slides. Such types of soils are derived from granite gneiss, schist and phyllite rocks. These soils obtained high percentage of silica from their parent body, while the soils formed from the limestone are rich in calcium carbonate. The transported soils are carried and deposited by the streams. Their parent body and source rocks lie at far away places. Some of these soils have mixed origin of glacial and fluvio- glacial origin. These soils of takus, fans and terraces are silt to clayey loam and are very fertile. The brown forest soils contain very high percentage of organic matter. The katil soils are stony, immature and extremely poor. Soils of Upraon are gravelly and sandy Loams. The Talaon soils are brown in colour with clayey texture. The stony texture provides higher rate of erosion.

1.12 Topograophy

The study area is situated around longitude 30o 3” N to 800 35” E. The bordering districts of Pithoragarh are in Tibet & NNE, in E and SE Nepal, in South & SW Chamoli distt., in SW Almora, Bageshwar in west. This district can be divided into three parts according to geographical features:

(i) Higher mountain region (ii) Lower mountain region (iii) valley Maximum part of Dharchula tehsil falls in higher mountain region & some of its part remains snow covered. It's highest mountain peak is Nandakote (6861 M). The high altitute regions of lower mountains area & steep lands are heavily covered with forest. Where there is gentle slope there are terraced fields in which different sort of crops are grown while too steep areas are covered with grass which is used as fodder. The situation caused by the different rivers & their tributaries on the river banks are popularly known as 'seras'. These fields are more fertile than the terraced fields due to irrigations facilities.The main rivers of the district are Saryu, Gomti, Pindar, Lahur, Pungar & Eastern Ramganga in eastern border. Relief Map of Uttrakhand is presented as figure 1.6 at the end of report.

8 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

1.13 Drainage Pattern of Kumaun

The eastern Dhauli orginates from the glaciers near Dawe (5000m) and flows in a southeastern course. Below the confluence with the Lissar River, the Dhauli is called the Darma River. Kali River is the major river system within the territory of the district and Dhauli Ganga is one of the major tributes of Kali. There are many other streams which bring quite good quantum of water to drain in this river. Drainage network of Kumaun showing different hydrographic regimes and their typical drainage basins is presented in figure 1.7 at the end of report.

1.14 Ecology The natural vegetation is influenced by climate and elevation. Tropical, moist deciduous forest at one time covered all of the Sub-Himalayan area. With few exceptions most of this forest has been cut for commercial lumber or agricultural land. In the Middle Himalayas at elevations between 1520 and 3660 m (between 5000 and 12,000 ft) natural vegetation consists of many species of pine, oak, rhododendron, poplar, walnut, and larch. Most of this area has been deforested; forest cover remains only in inaccessible areas and on steep slopes. Below the timber line the Great Himalayas contains valuable forests of spruce, fir, cypress, juniper, and birch. Alpine vegetation occupies higher parts of the Great Himalayas just below the snow line and includes shrubs, rhododendrons, mosses, lichens, and wildflowers such as blue poppies and edelweiss. These areas are used for grazing in summer by the highland people of the Great Himalayas. Forest Map of Uttrakhand state is presented as figure 1.8.

1.15 Sesmicity Seismically, the area constitutes one of the most active domains of the Himalayas. Within a period of 183 years from 1816 to 1999 a total of 298 seismic events have been recorded. Out of these, 32 events are of M > 5.5 frequency. Area wise seismicity is quite high in Main Himalayan Belt subdued within Tibetan Plateau and a few events located over Indo-Gangetic Plains. Several damaging earthquakes have been recorded in the area of which largest was that of 28th August, 1916 which caused heavy damage in Dharchula. Uttarkashi Earthquake of 19th October, 1991 caused extensive structural damage and maximum intensity of IX on MM scale was observed. Chamoli Earthquake (M-6.8) occurred on 29th March, 1999. Other events include Kinnaur Earthquake (January, 1975). Keeping in view the seismicity set up and active nature of seismicity, the area has been kept in zone IV as per Map Showing Seismic zone of India [IS:1893 (part-I) : 2002] presented as figure 1.9.

9 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

CHAPTER – 2

2.1 Description of the project Hydropower or hydroelectricity is a source of energy produced by the fall of water turning the blades of a turbine. The turbine is connected to a generator that converts the energy into electricity.

The greater the flow and the head, the more electricity produced. Some hydropower facilities include dams to increase the head of a waterfall or to control the flow of water, and reservoirs to store the water for future energy use (storage dam), while others produce electricity by immediately using a river's water flow (run-of-river). Some hydropower plants also use pumped storage systems, which store the water for reuse in the production of electricity during periods of high demand. Sobla-I SHP, is a run of the river scheme, offers a sustainable power generation system within the overall scenario of the entire state. Though the state of Uttarakhand has been gifted generously by Mother Nature in terms of water and forest resources, the area remains backward due to lack of any comprehensive policy in the past combining the harnessing of its potential together with socio-economic development. Since the proposed scheme is of the magnitude of 8.0 MW installed capacity, it is proposed that it will primarily cater to the need for quality power to meet local requirements. However the local demand in the area at the time being is not substantial and therefore it is proposed that, the surplus power would eventually be put in the state grid. Also the tourist route to Kailash Mansarovar and local infrastructure in terms of small scale industries, irrigation facilities for terrace cultivation, tourist centers like top class hotels, clubs, water sports complexes, ropeways and facilities for trekking and skiing etc could be developed. This will lead to an overall increase in per capita local income which would in turn increase local electricity demand and bring about an increase in socio-economic activities. Thus the impetus provided by the project in developing the area, both in short and long term would be immense.

It is understood from local enquiry that on 6th June, 2000, the river brought down huge boulders along its course and deposited it along the river bed. The water channel guided by the disposition of the boulder deposits on the right bank changed its course. The river took a right angle turn towards NNE and directly hit the powerhouse terrace on the left bank. As a result the terrace materials got washed away from the base. The powerhouse structure and column foundation collapsed partly leaving the structure overhanging. Out of two generators, one of 3 MW was salvaged from the river bed but this machine could not be used for this project, due to very bad condition. It is proposed two units each of 4 MW capacity will be installed in the new proposed

10 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Power House. The switchyard site is also damaged and eroded from base. Half of the steel girder bridge connecting Power House with right bank approach road has also been washed away during this flood. The adjacent terrace on which colony is located has also been affected. However the colony as a whole is not damaged. The river after hitting the powerhouse takes a turn towards East and flows through a rocky gorge till its confluence with Dhauliganga. Necessary provision has been made for required repairs of existing structures & reconstruction of the power house building as well as supply & erection of all the electro-mechanical equipments & machines of the power house.

The scope of the project is to reinstall a new powerhouse at location, which is preferable from safety point of view and is technically and economically feasible. The scope of the project also includes the study of possible augmentation of the Installed Capacity beyond 6 MW, which was being produced before the flood on June 6th 2000.

2.2 Small-scale Hydro

A small-scale hydroelectric facility requires that a sizable flow of water and an adequate head of water is available without building elaborate and expensive facilities. Small hydroelectric plants can be developed at existing dams and have been constructed in connection with water level control of rivers, lakes and irrigation schemes. By using existing structures, only minor new civil engineering works are required, which reduces the cost of this component of a development.

In other, more rugged regions of the country, it is possible to develop relatively higher heads without elaborate or expensive civil engineering works so that relatively smaller flows are required to develop the desired power. In these cases, it may be possible to construct a relatively simple diversion structure and obtain the highest drop by diverting flows at the top of a waterfall or steeply falling watercourse.

2.3 Examples of small-scale developments Small-scale hydroelectric facilities have become more popular over the past two decades. Many new sites have been created and older, existing sites have been refurbished.

SHP (small hydro power) technology was introduced in India shortly after the commissioning of the world's first hydroelectric installation at Appleton, USA in 1882. The 130 Kw plant at Darjeeling in the year 1897 was the first SHP installation in the country. A few other power

11 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL houses belonging to that period such as Shivasundaram in Mysore (5 MW, 1902), Galogi in Mussoorie (3 MW, 1907), and Chaba (1.75 MW, 1914) and Jubbal (50 KW, 1930) near Shimla. The above stations have since been uprated and refurbished. 2.4 Types of small-scale hydropower developments Small-scale hydro stations are classified in three types and presented in table 2.1.

Table 2.1 Classification of Hydro Power Station Sl. Size of Power Out put No. Hydropower 1. Micro 100 kW or less – For one or two houses. 2. Mini 100 kW to 2 MW – For a small factory or isolated community. 3. Small 2 MW to 25 MW – For supply to a regional or provincial power grid.

In large facilities, custom design detailed engineering is required. Small-scale hydroelectric developments have to be approached quite differently to achieve economical feasibility.

Over the last twenty-five years, efforts have been made to reduce development costs by improving all phases of project development. Some of the innovations produced by these efforts are:

 Improved methodologies for hydro resource assessment and project identification.  Improved methods of hydrologic assessment.  Standardized designs of turbines and generators.  Standardized requirements for connection to grid.  New contracting methods – turnkey.  Improvements in computational technology.  Standardized civil designs and partial development.

2.5 Environmental benefits of small hydroelectric energy

Small-scale hydroelectric developments do not take up much space and they rarely cause significant shoreline flooding or required river diversions. Large-scale projects, however, can create adverse environmental impacts such as shoreline flooding. Most of the negative environmental impacts of small-scale hydroelectric developments can be avoided in part or in whole by a good design and appropriate construction and operating practices. In general the environmental impacts of a small hydro power station is negligible if not totally non-existent.

2.5.1 Reducing risk of transporting fuel supplies (fossil fuel generation) Fuel supplies must be transported over long distances. The risk of fuel spills is significant, especially in remote areas of Northern India where the roads can be ice covered and the environment is ecologically fragile. In urban India, the risks to public safety from collisions or

12 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL derailments in crowded road or rail corridors are also significant. Hence increased use of electricity from small hydro power plants can reduce the consumption of fuel oil and thereby reduce the adverse impact of fuel oil on the environment appreciably. 2.5.2 Socio-economic benefits The most obvious social benefit of small hydroelectric projects is the supply of reliable low-cost electric energy to provide the comforts of modern living. Small-scale hydroelectric projects provide a competitive source of reliable and inflation- proof energy. Small-scale hydroelectric energy is an especially attractive alternative to traditional high-cost diesel generation that currently provides electric energy in remote communities across India. Compared with diesel generation, small-scale hydroelectric developments offer other interesting advantages such as:

 Used as a local resource and therefore produce electricity at a stable price that is not subject to the fluctuations of the international oil market  It provides more economic benefits to the region by way of employment during construction and operation and use of local services, 10% accounting upto 25% of capital cost.  It provides greater opportunities for local residents to learn and upgrade their construction skills.  It provides an opportunity for wealth creation.

2.5.3 Drinking Water and Irrigation facilities

In certain cases projects are helpful in providing drinking water and irrigation facilities in addition to power benefits.

2.5.4 Business benefits

Most small hydro projects in Himalayan region are being developed in remote and backward areas where substantial support for economic development is actually needed. The Indian small- hydro project includes more than 20 equipment manufacturers and about 70 engineering firms employing more than 2,000 people. Over the last decade, the small-scale hydroelectric project has contributed about $150M per year to the Indian economy in manufacturing and services and added about 100 to 150 MW yearly to India’s power supply. India’s small hydroelectric manufacturers and service providers, such as consultants and financiers, also export to overseas customers.

2.5.5 Fish protection At sites where fish migration is a concern, small hydroelectric developers may have to provide measures for fish passage or habitat compensation.

2.5.6 Institutional

13 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Management of small-scale hydroelectric project sell the output of their plants to regional or provincial grids.

Detail of project is presented in DPR here only salient feature of project is presented. A General layout plan of Sobla – I small HEP is presented as figure 2.1

14 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

SALIENT FEATURES

1. Location

i) State Uttarakhand ii) District Pithoragarh iii) Taluka Dharchula iv) Village New Sobla v) Nearest Rail Head Tanakpur (282 km.) vi) Geographical Co-ordinates Latitude 300-3’ Longitude 800-35’

2. River Catchments i) Catchmetns Soblagad ii) River Dhauliganga iii) Tributary Soblagad

3. Hydrology i) Catchments area of the stream/nallah 87.0 Sq.Km. ii) Catchment area at the diversion site 80.00 Sq. Km. iii) Precipitations : Annual 2000 mm iv) Climate data Normal Maximum Minimum Atmospheric Temerature(C) 200c 350c 00c Humidity(Percent) 70 to 90% Wind (Km/Hr) average 5.67

15 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL v) Floods Historical Maximum discharge (Cumecs) 91.00 Maximum discharge observed (Cumecs) 24.00 Date of occurrence July 1981 Design Flood (Cumecs) 434.68 cumecs Months of NIL flow 0

4. Diversion Works a) Diversion Structure i) Type of structure Trench Weir ii) Length(m) 15.00 m Over-flow section 15.00 m Non-overflow section N.A. iii) Maximum discharging capacity 5.55 Cumecs for two units iv) Intake 5200X5000 iv) Gates of Intake Structure Number of gates 2 Types of gates Sluice Valve 600  for flushing, 2 Nos. Vertical lift, Mechanical operated gates one for Trench Weir & other for Power Duct Operation b) Desilting Basin i) Settling length(m) 51.00 m ii) Width (m) 14.63 m iii) Depth required 1.10 m iv) Design discharge 4.62 cumecs

16 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

c) Water Conductor System i) Length (m) 1200 m ii) Shape Rectangular open channel iii) Size (w x h) in m 2.7 x 1.3 iv) Full supply depth (m) 1.3 including freeboard v) Thickness of lining (mm) Base 200 thick (1:2:4 cc) vi) Design Discharge (Cumecs) 4.62 for two machines v) Free flow 1.0

d) Forebay i) Size of Forebay (1 x b x d) in m 43 x 8 x 5 ii) Water level at Forebay (masl) 1941.2 iii) Number of off-takes One (another opening provided for future provision)

- Size (m) 1.2 m dia - Capacity 4.62 cumecs for two m/c (7.00 for three m/cs for future extension if possible). iv) Maximum discharging capacity (Cumecs) 4.62 v) Diurnal storage (cubic m) 723.6 vi) Penstocks a. Number 1 (provision for 2nd penstock is kept in Forebay for future Extension if possible) b. Diameter(m) and thickness (mm) 1.2 and 16 mm thick for main penstock 0.84m for additional penstock c. Length 475.0 m d. Size of valve 650 mm dia. Main Inlet valve e. Bifurcations if any at lower end One provided f. Design discharge (Cumecs) 4.62

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5. Power House i) Type Surface ii) Head (m) Design 209.66 iii) Size of power House a) Length (m) 36.5 b) Width (m) 9.50 c) Height (m) 9.60 d) Machine hall floor level (EL m) 1732.825 iv) Installed Capacity (KW) 8000 KW Turbines - Type Francis - Number 1+1 - Capacity (KW) 8000 KW (2 x 4000)

v) Type of generator a) Excitation system Static/Brushless excitation b) Regulation system AVR c) Power house crane/lifting tackle 18 tonnes (Electric operated)

6. Tail Race i) Shape Rectangular channel ii) Size 2.0m x 1.1m iii) Length (m) 50.00 iv) Water level (EL m) - average 1735.00

7. Power i) Installed Capacity (4000 + 4000) KW a. Firm power (KW)-Load factor in percent 8000 KW – 48.52% b. Seasonal (max) Power (KW) 8000 KW c. Annual energy (KWh) 28,910 kWH

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8. Switchyard i) Voltage level/basic insulation level 170 KV ii) No. of bays 2 (Two) incoming & 2 (Two) out going feeders Indoor type

iii) Size Length 40 m Width 15 m

9. Estimate of Cost i) Total cost (Rs. Lakhs) 3542 without IDC 3626.11 with IDC ii) Cost per MW installed (Rs. Lakhs) 442.75 without IDC iii) Cost of generation per kWH (Rs.) 2.03 without CDM benefits in First 10 years 1.64 with CDM benefits

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CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE

Taking into account the volume of work involved and the constraints imposed due to heavy rainfall and severe weather conditions, an innovative work schedule has been evolved to ensure project completion within 24 months period. The constraints are:

 Heavy monsoon rains and extremely cold climate during winter months.  Deployment of heavy construction machinery, not possible at all sites.

The main civil work in the project will be the construction of powerhouse, tailrace and switchyard, extensive repair of weir, damaged water conductor system, laying of penstock in remaining length and transmission lines to the proposed substation. These shall be constructed using appropriate machinery and predominantly using labour force.

20 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

CONSTRUCTION PROGRAMME‐ BAR CHART OF 2X4000 kW Sobla‐I SHP Sl. ACTIVITY No. M 1 M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 1 Site development – construction of approach Not Required, Already roads, site office and stores Existing

2 Finalization of designs / drawings and issue of construction drawings 3 Setting up reference points and marking detailed layout of Power House

4 Site mobilization by civil works contractor 5 Earthwork excavation for Not Required as the structures already exist, only repairs required. trench weir, power channel, desilting tank, forebay, saddles and anchors

6 Stone masonry and RCC works in trench weir, intake, desilting tank, forebay, saddles and anchors for repair purpose only

1 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

7 Excavation leveling for power house building, layout of raft and erection of columns, superstructure

8 Erection of penstock pipe in remaining 200m length 9 Receipt of electro‐ mechanical equipment 10 Erection of electro‐ mechanical equipment

11 Erection of control and relay panels

12 Laying of control and power cables

13 Erection of switchyard equipment

14 Testing & commissioning of plant

2 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

CHAPTER - 3 3.0 Description of Present Environment 3.1 General The objective of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is to ascertain the baseline environmental conditions and then assess the impacts as a result of the proposed hydel project during different phases of project. A scoping matrix has been formulated to identify the attributes likely to be affected due to project. The likely impact for Sobla SHP is presented in table 3.1., while anticipated environmental impact is presented with help of identification matrix in chapter 5. The environmental baseline includes inventory of physical, ecological and socio economic parameters. The data has been compiled for:

1. Air Environment (Air quality); 2. Water Environment (Water resources, water use, water quality, hydrology); 3. Noise Environment (Noise levels); 4. Land Environment (Land use, geology, seismology and soils); 5. Ecological Environment (Terrestrial and Aquatic ecology); and 6. Socio-Economic Environment (Demography, Socio-economic, public health etc.)

Based on environment scoping matrix and project setting the attributes likely to be affected are identified for baseline data generation. The information presented in this chapter has been collected from various sources. Majority of the data has been generated and collected from field studies. WRDM have carried out field studies to generate data on air, water, noise, soil, ecology and socio-economics in and around the project site during April-June 2009. Surveys were conducted for assessing the ecological status of the project area. In addition, data has been compiled from literature, books, maps and reports. Discussions held with local people residing in the project area, and local government/non-government organizations during field survey have provided very useful information. The methodology and frequency adopted for data collection is highlighted wherever necessary. Likely impacts from a hydro electric project is presented in table 3.1 while a general environmental attributes and frequency of monitoring for data collection is summarized in table 3.2.

This Chapter deals with the description of Present environmental scenario in the study area as per the guidelines for water resource projects. Negative and positive impacts have been quantified wherever possible and presented in Chapter-5. The description and findings of present socio-economic status are given in same Chapter-3 while detail Environmental Management Plan (EMP) with magnitude of impacts is presented in Chapter-7.

18 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Table 3.1 - Likely Impacts of the Project

Aspect of Environment Likely Impacts A. Air Pollution Construction Phase - Impacts due to emissions generated by crushers and other equipment. - Impacts due to increased vehicular movement. - Fugitive emissions from various sources. B. Water Resources & Water Quality Construction Phase - increase in turbidity of nearby receiving water bodies. - Degradation of water quality due to disposal of wastes from labour colony and construction sites. C. Noise Pollution Construction Phase - Noise due to operation of various equipment. - Noise due to increased vehicular movement.

D. Land Environment Construction Phase - Increase in soil erosion. - Pollution by construction spoils. - Use of land for labour colonies. - Problems due to muck disposal. - Solid waste from labour camps. - Acquisition of land for various project appurtenances. E. Aquatic Ecology Construction Phase - Increased pressure on aquatic ecology as a result of indiscrimate fishing. - Reduced productivity due to increase in turbidity. Operation Phase - Impacts on migratory fish species. - Impacts on spawning and breeding grounds. - Degradation of riverine ecology. - Increased potential for reservoir fisheries. F. Terrestrial Ecology Construction Phase - Increased pressure on nearby forests due to labour force to meet their fuel wood and timber requirements. - Adverse impacts due to migration of labour population. - Loss of forest. - Impacts on natured reserves due to various project appurtenances. - Impacts on wildlife movement. - Impacts on wildlife habitats. - Impacts on diversity and productivity of flora. - Impacts on economically/genetically/biologically important plant species. G. Socio – Economics Construction Phase - Acquisition of land and private properties. - Impacts on mineral reserves. - Improved employment potential during project construction phase. - Development of allied sectors leading to greater employment.

19 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

- Pressure on existing infrastructure facilities. - Friction between guest and host community. Operation Phase - Increased revenue from power generation. H. Public Health Construction Phase - Increased incidence of water related diseases. - Transmission of disease by immigrant labour population. Operation Phase - Increased incidences of vector borne diseases.

Table 3.2 - Environmental attributes and frequency of monitoring

Sl. Attribute Parameter Frequency Source No. Air Environment 1. Meteorology Wind speed wind direction --- IMD data Temperature, Relative humidity 2. Ambient Air SPM, RSPM, SO2 and One Season Field Studies and data Quality NOx generation. Water Environment 3 Water Resources Flow, Design/Design --- DPR Flood Hydrograph 4 Water Quality Physical, Chemical and One Season Field studies and lab Biological parameters analysis. Noise Environment 5 Ambient Noise Weighted sound For 24 hrs Field studies with data Monitoring Pressure level on 1 hr. generation. interval Land Envrironment 1 Land Use Land Use pattern --- SOI Toposheets & Ground Truth Studies. Geology Geological history --- Survey of India Toposheets & Ground Truth Studies. Soil Soil Types One Field studies and Lab seasons analysis. secondary sources and soil sample analysis Ecology Environment Noise Noise levels in dB (A) One Season Field monitoring. Ecology Flora & Fauna Diversity One Season Survey and book literature review. Aquatic Ecology Density & diversity of One Season Field study, Fisheries aquatic species Department, Literature review Socio-Economic Socio-economic Socio economic characteristic Socio- Field Studies, Literature aspects of the 10 km. approx radius of economic review, Statistical book. proposal file.

20 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

3.2 Location of the Site

A small hydroelectric power project of 8 MW is proposed at Sobla location on Sobla river. Proposed Sobla SHP is situated nearby Sobla in Dharchula tehsil of Pithoragarh district. It is about 660 km. (approx.) from Dehradun capital of Uttrakhand state and 900 km. approx from New Delhi. The area is connected with roads, and railways (Up to Tanakpur).

3.3 Site Topography

The topography of whole district (Pithoragarh) is by and large rugged, the entire region is mountainous. This district can be divided into three parts according to geographical features: (i) Higher mountain region (ii) Lower mountain region (iii) Valley

3.4 Existing Industries and Pollutants load in Study Area

No industries are situated inside Sobla Gad basin.

3.5 Site Environmental Monitoring

Site Environmental monitoring was carried out for one season as per guidelines for summer season. The purpose of the environmental monitoring was just to know about the background load of the area. Based on pre dominant wind direction/speed all monitoring location was selected. Results of baseline studies are summarized further in this chapter.

3.6 Existing Environmental Status

The existing Environmental status of surrounding of the proposed Sobla SHP up to an area of 10 km radius has been studied covering the following parameters:

1. Meteorology 2. Air Quality 3. Water Quality 4. Noise 5. Soil 6. Land Environment 7. Socio-economic aspects 8. Ecology

21 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

3.6.1 Meteorology

Variation in the altitude range of the Sobla basin from 1000 mtr. Above mean sea level to over 7000 mtr., along with slope aspect give rise to considerable variations of microclimates and weather patterns. Altitude wise the prevail climates is presented in table 3.3.

Table 3.3 - Altitude wise prevail climate

Sl. No. Altitudes Prevail climate 1. Up to 1200 Mtr. Sub Tropical 2. 1200- 1800 mtr. Warm Temperate 3. 1800 – 2400 mtr. Cool Temperate 4. 2400 – 3000 mtr. Cold Temperate 5. Higher Altitudes 3000 + The climate tends tp become Polar

Though deep inside the Himalya the broad climate and weather patterns that influence much of northern India prevail here also. The south east monsoons, dominates in maximum part of the year. Most of the valley, excepting the higher parts (the Trans Himalyan region), receives 2600 mm of rainfall in the SW monsoons. This contributes to as much as 80% of the rainfall of the valley. The North West monsoons, originating from over central Asia and traveling the length of the Himalya brings the winter snows and rains. Snow in the higher reaches could be many feet deep and the winter snow line comes down to around 3500 mtrs. msl. The lower parts of the valley do not receive snow. Temperature, influenced by altitude, aspect and season range from extremes, touching 400 C in the lower parts of the valley to many places below zero in the higher altitude.

The study area is situated near Askot. So meteorological data of Askot have been considered for site selection.

3.6.1.1 Wind and Cloud

The wind directions during different months with average cloud cover at near by IMD location of study area are given in table 3.4.

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Table 3.4 - Prevailing wind direction and average cloud cover Sl. Wind Cloud No. Months Prevailing Wind Directions No. of days with cloud amount Main Followed by (All Clouds) OKTAS 0 T-2 3-5 6-7 8 1. January W NE 16 2 4 3 6

2. February NE W 12 3 4 4 5

3. March NE E 15 3 5 4 4

4. April NE E 11 3 5 6 5

5. May NE E 13 3 5 5 5

6. June NE E 5 4 6 7 8

7. July NE W 2 1 5 8 15

8. August NE SW 1 1 6 7 16

9. September SW NE 4 4 8 5 9

10. October NE E 16 6 4 3 2

11. November E NE 20 4 2 2 2

12. December SW W 21 3 3 2 2

Prevailing wind speed and direction during April & May month of nearest IMD location is also presented in table 3.5. Maximum temperature was found 25 in middle of May month while average wind speed during April and May was 1.8 to 2.0 km/hr. In May month rain fall is observed.

Table 3.5 - Temperature, Humidity, Average Wind speed and Predominant wind direction during (April-May 09)

Week Temperature Humidity Avg. Wind Pre dominant (Avg.) (Avg.) Velocity (km/hr) wind Direction Max. Min. Max. Min. Main April 09 23.5 12 79 36 1.8 NE May 09 25 16 - - 2.0 SE

3.6.1.2 Temperature The details of temperature recorded at the meteorological observatories in the district show that the highest temperature was 270 C and lowest 60 C. January is the coldest month after which the temperature begin to rise till June or July. Temperature varies with elevation. During the winter cold waves in the wake of western disturbances may cause temperature to fall appreciably. Mean monthly temp. at Dharchula of year 1972-78 is presented in table 3.6.

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Table 3.6 - Mean Monthly Temp. (In 0C) at Dharchula (1972-78) Sl. No. Month Temperature 1. January 8.3 2. February 13.0 3. March 18.1 4. April 19.0 5. May 22.5 6. June 23.8 7. July 24.4 8. August 25.3 9. September 24.4 10. October 19.4 11. November 15.6 12. December 10.6 After Joshi et. al., 1983

3.6.1.3 Relative Humidity The relative humidity is high during monsoon season, generally exceeding 77% on the average. The driest part of the year is the pre monsoon period when the humidity may drop to 35% during the afternoon. During the winter months humidity increases toward the afternoon at certain high station.

3.6.1.4 Rain Fall Most of the rainfall occurs during the period June to September when 70 to 80 percent of the annual precipitation is accounted for in the southern half of the district and 55 to 65 percent in the northern half. The effectiveness of the rains is among others, related to low temperature which means less evapo-transpiration and forest or vegetation cover. However, the effectiveness is neither uniform nor even positive in areas where either the vegetational cover is poor or has steep slope or the soils have been so denuded that their moisture absorption capacity has become marginal. The average rainfall during July is 701 mm and in August is 692 mm. Mean monthly rainfall at Dharchula of year 1972-78 is presented in table 3.7. Table 3.7 - Mean Monthly Rainfall (In cm) at Dharchula (1972-78) Sl. No. Month Rainfall 1. January 0.9 2. February 8.7 3. March 2.3 4. April 12.3 5. May 11.1 6. June 38.0 7. July 5.8 8. August 51.9 9. September 18.2 10. October 5.7 11. November 3.0 12. December 2.5 13. Annual 150.4

After Joshi et. al., 1983

24 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

3.6.2 Air Quality 3.6.2.1 Ambient Air Quality

The first step to assess the impact on air quality due to proposed project not directly but indirectly as well as its construction activity is to evaluate the existing air quality so as to determine the respective assimilative capacity of the ambient air in the surrounding area of the project. In view of this, monitoring of ambient air was done, in the months of April - May 2009 at two locations whose detail is a given in table 3.8.

3.6.2.2 Monitoring Station Location

As such whole study area is virgin and remote area of Himalyan zone, so ambient air monitoring in surrounding area is very difficult. To assess the ambient air quality 2 (two) monitoring stations have been setup. Table 3.8 gives the locations of the ambient air quality monitoring stations.

Table 3.8 - Details of Ambient Air Sampling Locations

Sl. Locations Station No. Distance from Sobla Direction from Sobla No. (In Km.) 1. Sobla Village AAQMS – 1 - - 2. Nyu Village AAQMS – 2 1.5 SSE

In the entire study area (within 10 km. from Sobla) as there is no polluting activity, so it will be generally assumed that ambient air quality may be affected due to increase of population load, traffic density etc.

The ambient air quality is expected to be affected in and around the proposed SHP site or colony site up to a limited distance. Keeping this in view, neighborhood SHP diversion site was planned to be monitored.

The site selection process begins with acquisition of the necessary background material. Three basic kind of information are required i.e. geographical, emissions and climatological. The geographical material is used to determine the distribution of natural features – forests, rivers, lakes and the work of human being. Useful sources of such information may include road and topographical maps, and other geographical map etc. The climatological summarises of greatest use are the frequency distribution of wind speed and direction. This information is sually taken from IMD centre of concerned area. Emission inventories will be most useful for identifying the source of SPM and gas. On the basis of above discussed information and also guidelines for

25 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Ambient Air Quality Monitoring of CPCB all AAQMS was setup and subsequently monitoring has been done.

3.6.2.3 Sampling Schedule

Air samples were collected with the help of Respirable Dust Air Sampler. The sampling schedule is given in table 3.9.

Table 3.9 - Ambient Air Sampling Schedule

Sl. Particulars Parameters

No. SPM RSPM SO2 NOx 1. Measurement Gravimetric Gravimetric EPA Modified Arsenite modified Method High Volume High Volume West & Gaeke Jacob & Hochheiser with Cyclone method 2. Flow Rate 1.2 + 0.2 1.2 + 0.2 0.5 + 0.1 0.5 + 0.1 m3/min m3/min LPM LPM 3. Duration of 24 24 24 24 Sampling hours hours hours hours 4. Number of Samples taken April ‘09 6 6 6 6 May 09 6 6 6 6

3.6.2.4 Sampled and Analysed Parameter

The following parameters were monitored in surrounding area of proposed site near Pithoragarh as per EIA Guidelines : * Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) * Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM)

* Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)

* Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx)

Table 3.10 - Sumarised Air Quality Data

3 3 Location Code Location Name SPM in g/m RSPM in SO2 in g/m NOx in g/m3 g/m3 AAQMS - 1 Sobla 114 – 54 39 – 28 <10 – <10 12.7 - <10 (76) (36) (<10.0) (<10) AAQMS - 2 Nyu 128 -64 78 – 56 <10 - <10 14.8 - <10 (80) (68) (<10) (<10) Result in parenthesis shows average value.

National Ambient Air Quality Standard is presented in table 3.11.

26 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Table 3.11 - National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) Pollutant Time weighted Concentration of Ambient Air Average Industrial Area Residential Sensitive SPM Annual Average 360 g/m3 140 g/m3 70 g/m3 24 hors 500 g/m3 200 g/m3 100 g/m3 RSPM Annual Average 120 g/m3 60 g/m3 50 g/m3 24 hors 150 g/m3 100 g/m3 75 g/m3 Sulphur Dioxide Annual Average 80 g/m3 60 g/m3 15 g/m3 24 hors 120 g/m3 80 g/m3 30 g/m3 Oxides of Nitrogen Annual Average 80 g/m3 60 g/m3 15 g/m3 24 hors 120g/m3 80 g/m3 30 g/m3

3.6.2.5 Traffic Density

The mix and growth in motor vehicle population in any city determines the contribution of auto emissions to the overall air pollution in that city. As the pollution load attributable to auto exhausts depends on the vehicle kilometers traveled and the growth with time therein, for assessing the need for improvement in the vehicular emissions and fuel quality to contain pollution from auto exhaust, it is necessary to study the growth trends of motor vehicles and the changes in the air quality.

All villages with scattered houses are situated in remote hill area. Mostly people of these areas coalk on foot. Maximum load was found only in day time. Assessment of additional traffic load near project site was quite impossible because road was blocked due to land slide. Tendency and flow of tourist is not similar in hills. Tourist for Mansrovar Yatra are also using this road. In last one decade it has been seen that tourist visiting the hill has increased many fold. Incremental tendency of load by tourist, due to the proposed activity of SHP especially by transport facilities is very little.

Presently there is no other potential source of NOx generation in study area except domestic or agricultural activity. Thus it is assumed that SO2 and NOx levels may be slightly increased throughout the study area, which may be due to rapid urbanization and increasing growth of population and their activities.

3.6.3 Water Sources and Quality The proposed project is located in a remote area of upper middle Himalya of Pithoragarh district. There are some settlements in the surrounding area of the project site. The catchment area intercepted at the diversion structure site has also some settlements. There are no industries in the area. Likewise, use of agrochemicals is negligible in the catchment area. Thus, in absence of pollution sources, water quality of this area is satisfactory. The D.O. level in such water bodies is close to saturation level. The other parameters are also well within permissible limit.

27 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Contamination can enter the water bodies through one or more of the following ways:  Direct point sources: Transfer of pollutants from municipal industrial liquid waste disposal sites and from municipal and household hazardous waste and refuse disposal sites.  Diffuse agricultural sources: Wash off and soil erosion from agricultural lands carrying materials applied during agricultural use, mainly fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides.  Diffuse urban sources: Run off from city streets, from horticultural, gardening and

commercial activities in the urban environment and from industrial sites and storage areas.

At present, the source of water in study area is spring water from natural source. People’s of area using spring water for drinking purposes.

Water quality monitoring was carried out in order to gather baseline data on existing water quality, which can be used to predict the impacts of the project on water quality. Ground and surface water sampling location with the distance and direction are presented in table 3.12 and 3.13. Result of ground and surface water analysis report is presented in table 3.14 to 3.21.

Table 3.12 - Ground Water Sampling Location with distance & direction from Sobla

Sl. Locations Station No. Distance from Direction from Type No. Sobla (In km.) Sobla 1. Sobla GW - 1 - - Spring Water 2. Dar GW – 2 2 ENE Spring Water 3. Khairi Gaon GW – 3 1.0 E Hot Spring 4. Khairi Gaon GW – 4 1.0 E Spring Water 5. Nyu Gaon GW - 5 1.5 S Spring Water

Table 3.13 - Surface Water Sampling Location with distance & direction from Sobla

Sl. Locations Situation Station No. Distance from Direction No. Sobla from Sobla (In km.) 1. Sobla Gad On Sobla River SW - 1 - - 2. Dhauli Ganga On Dhauli Ganga SW – 2 0.5 E 3. Kali River On Kali River SW – 3 8.0 S

28 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Table 3.14 - Results of Underground Water Analysis

Location : Sobla Village Location Code : GW - 1 Date of Monitoring : Summer

Sl. Parameters Norms as per Result No IS : 10500 1* 2* Essential Characteristics 1. Colour, Hazen Units 5 25 <5 2. Odour ** - Unobjectionable 3. Taste # - Agreeable 4. Turbidity, NTU 5 max 10 <5 5. pH 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 7.76

6. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 300 600 64 7. Iron (as Fe), mg/l 0.3 1.0 0.025 8. Chloride (as Cl), mg/l 250 1000 21.5 9. Residual free Chlorine, mg/l 0.2 min - Nil 10. Flouride (as F), mg/l 1.0 1.5 0.064 Desirable Characters 11. Dissolved Solids, mg/l 500 2000 169 12. Calcium (as Ca), mg/l 75 200 16.0 13. Magnesium (as Mg), mg/l 30 100 5.8 14. Copper (as Cu), mg/l 0.05 1.5 BDL 15. Manganese (as Mn), mg/l 0.1 0.3 0.001

16. Sulphate (as SO4), mg/l 200 400 14.4

17. Nitrate (as NO3), mg/l 45 100 0.003

18. Phenolic Compounds (as C6H5OH), mg/l 0.001 0.002 BDL 19. Mercury (as Hg), mg/l 0.001 0.001 BDL 20. Selenium (as Se), mg/l 0.01 0.01 BDL 21. Cadmium (as Cd), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 22. Arsenic (as As), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 23. Cyanide (as CN), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 24. Lead (as Pb), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 25. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l 5.0 15 0.01 26. Chromium (as Cr), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 27. Aluminium (as Al), mg/l 0.03 0.2 BDL 28. Boron (as B), mg/l 1.0 5 BDL 29. Pesticides, mg/l Absent 0.001 - 30. Anionic Detergents (as MBAS), mg/l 0.2 1.0 - 31. Mineral Oil, mg/l 0.01 0.03 BDL

32. Alkalinity (as CaCO3), mg/l 200 600 56 *1 Desirable Limits. *2 Acceptable Limits in absence of alternate source ** Unobjectionable. # - Agreeable.

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Table 3.15 - Results of Underground Water Analysis

Location : Dar Village Location Code : GW - 2 Date of Monitoring : Summer

Sl. Parameters Norms as per Result No IS : 10500 1* 2* Essential Characteristics 1. Colour, Hazen Units 5 25 <5 2. Odour ** - Unobjectionable 3. Taste # - Agreeable 4. Turbidity, NTU 5 max 10 <5 5. pH 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 7.71

6. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 300 600 80 7. Iron (as Fe), mg/l 0.3 1.0 1.24 8. Chloride (as Cl), mg/l 250 1000 13.5 9. Residual free Chlorine, mg/l 0.2 min - Nil 10. Flouride (as F), mg/l 1.0 1.5 0.39 Desirable Characters 11. Dissolved Solids, mg/l 500 2000 151 12. Calcium (as Ca), mg/l 75 200 24.0 13. Magnesium (as Mg), mg/l 30 100 4.9 14. Copper (as Cu), mg/l 0.05 1.5 BDL 15. Manganese (as Mn), mg/l 0.1 0.3 0.014

16. Sulphate (as SO4), mg/l 200 400 24.6

17. Nitrate (as NO3), mg/l 45 100 0.07

18. Phenolic Compounds (as C6H5OH), mg/l 0.001 0.002 BDL 19. Mercury (as Hg), mg/l 0.001 0.001 BDL 20. Selenium (as Se), mg/l 0.01 0.01 BDL 21. Cadmium (as Cd), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 22. Arsenic (as As), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 23. Cyanide (as CN), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 24. Lead (as Pb), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 25. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l 5.0 15 BDL 26. Chromium (as Cr), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 27. Aluminium (as Al), mg/l 0.03 0.2 BDL 28. Boron (as B), mg/l 1.0 5 BDL 29. Pesticides, mg/l Absent 0.001 - 30. Anionic Detergents (as MBAS), mg/l 0.2 1.0 - 31. Mineral Oil, mg/l 0.01 0.03 BDL

32. Alkalinity (as CaCO3), mg/l 200 600 52 *1 Desirable Limits. *2 Acceptable Limits in absence of alternate source ** Unobjectionable. # - Agreeable.

30 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Table 3.16 - Results of Underground Water Analysis

Location : Khairi Gaon Location Code : GW - 3 Date of Monitoring : Summer

Sl. Parameters Norms as per Result No IS : 10500 1* 2* Essential Characteristics 1. Colour, Hazen Units 5 25 <5 2. Odour ** - Unobjectionable 3. Taste # - Agreeable 4. Turbidity, NTU 5 max 10 <5 5. pH 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 7.95

6. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 300 600 148 7. Iron (as Fe), mg/l 0.3 1.0 1.35 8. Chloride (as Cl), mg/l 250 1000 19.6 9. Residual free Chlorine, mg/l 0.2 min - Nil 10. Flouride (as F), mg/l 1.0 1.5 0.027 Desirable Characters 11. Dissolved Solids, mg/l 500 2000 251 12. Calcium (as Ca), mg/l 75 200 35.2 13. Magnesium (as Mg), mg/l 30 100 14.6 14. Copper (as Cu), mg/l 0.05 1.5 BDL 15. Manganese (as Mn), mg/l 0.1 0.3 0.042

16. Sulphate (as SO4), mg/l 200 400 48.0

17. Nitrate (as NO3), mg/l 45 100 0.086

18. Phenolic Compounds (as C6H5OH), mg/l 0.001 0.002 BDL 19. Mercury (as Hg), mg/l 0.001 0.001 BDL 20. Selenium (as Se), mg/l 0.01 0.01 BDL 21. Cadmium (as Cd), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 22. Arsenic (as As), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 23. Cyanide (as CN), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 24. Lead (as Pb), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 25. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l 5.0 15 BDL 26. Chromium (as Cr), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 27. Aluminium (as Al), mg/l 0.03 0.2 BDL 28. Boron (as B), mg/l 1.0 5 BDL 29. Pesticides, mg/l Absent 0.001 - 30. Anionic Detergents (as MBAS), mg/l 0.2 1.0 - 31. Mineral Oil, mg/l 0.01 0.03 BDL

32. Alkalinity (as CaCO3), mg/l 200 600 100 *1 Desirable Limits. *2 Acceptable Limits in absence of alternate source ** Unobjectionable. # - Agreeable.

31 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Table 3.17 - Results of Underground Water Analysis

Location : Khairi Gaon Location Code : GW - 4 Date of Monitoring : Summer

Sl. Parameters Norms as per Result No IS : 10500 1* 2* Essential Characteristics 1. Colour, Hazen Units 5 25 <5 2. Odour ** - Unobjectionable 3. Taste # - Agreeable 4. Turbidity, NTU 5 max 10 <5 5. pH 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 7.81

6. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 300 600 124 7. Iron (as Fe), mg/l 0.3 1.0 0.07 8. Chloride (as Cl), mg/l 250 1000 9.8 9. Residual free Chlorine, mg/l 0.2 min - Nil 10. Flouride (as F), mg/l 1.0 1.5 0.08 Desirable Characters 11. Dissolved Solids, mg/l 500 2000 175 12. Calcium (as Ca), mg/l 75 200 20.8 13. Magnesium (as Mg), mg/l 30 100 17.5 14. Copper (as Cu), mg/l 0.05 1.5 BDL 15. Manganese (as Mn), mg/l 0.1 0.3 0.012

16. Sulphate (as SO4), mg/l 200 400 18.0

17. Nitrate (as NO3), mg/l 45 100 0.076

18. Phenolic Compounds (as C6H5OH), mg/l 0.001 0.002 BDL 19. Mercury (as Hg), mg/l 0.001 0.001 BDL 20. Selenium (as Se), mg/l 0.01 0.01 BDL 21. Cadmium (as Cd), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 22. Arsenic (as As), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 23. Cyanide (as CN), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 24. Lead (as Pb), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 25. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l 5.0 15 BDL 26. Chromium (as Cr), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 27. Aluminium (as Al), mg/l 0.03 0.2 BDL 28. Boron (as B), mg/l 1.0 5 BDL 29. Pesticides, mg/l Absent 0.001 - 30. Anionic Detergents (as MBAS), mg/l 0.2 1.0 - 31. Mineral Oil, mg/l 0.01 0.03 BDL

32. Alkalinity (as CaCO3), mg/l 200 600 72 *1 Desirable Limits. *2 Acceptable Limits in absence of alternate source ** Unobjectionable. # - Agreeable.

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Table 3.18 - Results of Underground Water Analysis

Location : Nyu Gaon Location Code : GW - 5 Date of Monitoring : Summer

Sl. Parameters Norms as per Result No IS : 10500 1* 2* Essential Characteristics 1. Colour, Hazen Units 5 25 <5 2. Odour ** - Unobjectionable 3. Taste # - Agreeable 4. Turbidity, NTU 5 max 10 <5 5. pH 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 8.08

6. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 300 600 360 7. Iron (as Fe), mg/l 0.3 1.0 0.034 8. Chloride (as Cl), mg/l 250 1000 27.4 9. Residual free Chlorine, mg/l 0.2 min - Nil 10. Flouride (as F), mg/l 1.0 1.5 0.023 Desirable Characters 11. Dissolved Solids, mg/l 500 2000 557 12. Calcium (as Ca), mg/l 75 200 41.6 13. Magnesium (as Mg), mg/l 30 100 62.2 14. Copper (as Cu), mg/l 0.05 1.5 BDL 15. Manganese (as Mn), mg/l 0.1 0.3 0.008

16. Sulphate (as SO4), mg/l 200 400 78.2

17. Nitrate (as NO3), mg/l 45 100 0.022

18. Phenolic Compounds (as C6H5OH), mg/l 0.001 0.002 BDL 19. Mercury (as Hg), mg/l 0.001 0.001 BDL 20. Selenium (as Se), mg/l 0.01 0.01 BDL 21. Cadmium (as Cd), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 22. Arsenic (as As), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 23. Cyanide (as CN), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 24. Lead (as Pb), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 25. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l 5.0 15 BDL 26. Chromium (as Cr), mg/l 0.05 0.05 BDL 27. Aluminium (as Al), mg/l 0.03 0.2 BDL 28. Boron (as B), mg/l 1.0 5 BDL 29. Pesticides, mg/l Absent 0.001 - 30. Anionic Detergents (as MBAS), mg/l 0.2 1.0 - 31. Mineral Oil, mg/l 0.01 0.03 BDL

32. Alkalinity (as CaCO3), mg/l 200 600 312 *1 Desirable Limits. *2 Acceptable Limits in absence of alternate source ** Unobjectionable. # - Agreeable.

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Table 3.19 - Results of Surface Water Analysis

Location : Sobla Gad River (Near Sobla Bazar) Location Code : SW – 1 Season : summer

Sl. Parameters Results No.

1. Colour, Hazen Units <5 2. Turbidity, NTU, Max. <5 3. pH 7.90 4. Dissolved Oxygen, mg/l 6.4 5. BOD (3 days at 270C, mg/l) 2

6. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 116 7. Iron (as Fe), mg/l 1.48 8. Chloride (as CI), mg/l 23.5 9. Flouride (as F), mg/l 0.064 10. Dosolved Solids, mg/l 214 11. Calcium (as Ca), mg/l 30.4 12. Magnesium (as Mn), mg/l 9.7 13. Copper (as Cu), mg/l BDL 14. Manganese (as Mn), mg/l 0.039

15. Sulphate, (as SO4) mg/l 50.4 16. Nitrate (as NO3), mg/l 0.108 17. Phenolic Compounds (as C6 H5 OH), mg/l BDL 18. Mercury (as Hg), mg/l BDL 19. Cadmium (as Hg), mg/l BDL 20. Selenium (as Se), mg/l BDL 21. Arsenic (as As), mg/l BDL 22. Cyanide (as CN), mg/l BDL 23. Lead (as Pb),mg/l BDL 24. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l BDL 25. Aninoic Detergents (as MBAS), mg/l - 26. Chromium (as cr6+), mg/l BDL 27. Mineral Oil, mg/l BDL

28. Alkalinity (as CaCO3), mg/l 92 29. Aluminum (as Al), mg/l BDL 30. Coliform Organism MPN/100 ml - 31. Sodium Absorption Ratio 0.081

34 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Table 3.20 - Results of Surface Water Analysis

Location : Dhauli Ganga River Location Code : SW – 2 Season : summer Sl. Parameters Results No.

1. Colour, Hazen Units <5 2. Turbidity, NTU, Max. <5 3. pH 7.11 4. Dissolved Oxygen, mg/l 5.8 5. BOD (3 days at 270C, mg/l) 2

6. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 138 7. Iron (as Fe), mg/l 0.003 8. Chloride (as CI), mg/l 21.5 9. Flouride (as F), mg/l 0.02 10. Dosolved Solids, mg/l 216 11. Calcium (as Ca), mg/l 46.0 12. Magnesium (as Mn), mg/l 28.0 13. Copper (as Cu), mg/l BDL 14. Manganese (as Mn), mg/l 0.029

15. Sulphate, (as SO4)mg/l 40.7 16. Nitrate (as NO3), mg/l 0.013 17. Phenolic Compounds (as C6 H5 OH), mg/l BDL 18. Mercury (as Hg), mg/l BDL 19. Cadmium (as Hg), mg/l BDL 20. Selenium (as Se), mg/l BDL 21. Arsenic (as As), mg/l BDL 22. Cyanide (as CN), mg/l BDL 23. Lead (as Pb),mg/l BDL 24. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l BDL 25. Aninoic Detergents (as MBAS), mg/l - 26. Chromium (as cr6+), mg/l BDL 27. Mineral Oil, mg/l BDL

28. Alkalinity (as CaCO3), mg/l 208 29. Aluminum (as Al), mg/l BDL 30. Coliform Organism MPN/100 ml - 31. Sodium Absorption Ratio 0.072

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Table 3.21 - Results of Surface Water Analysis

Location : Kali River (Near Tawa Ghat) Location Code : SW – 3 Season : summer Sl. Parameters Results No.

1. Colour, Hazen Units <5 2. Dissolved Oxygen, mg/l <5 3. pH 8.06 4. Dissolved Oxygen, mg/l 5.7 5. BOD (3 days at 270C, mg/l) 1

6. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 116 7. Iron (as Fe), mg/l 0.98 8. Chloride (as CI), mg/l 17.0 9. Flouride (as F), mg/l 0.017 10. Dosolved Solids, mg/l 242 11. Calcium (as Ca), mg/l 28.8 12. Magnesium (as Mn), mg/l 10.7 13. Copper (as Cu), mg/l BDL 14. Manganese (as Mn), mg/l 0.03

15. Sulphate (as NO3), mg/l 42.5 16. Nitrate (as SO4), mg/l 0.10 17. Phenolic Compounds (as C6 H5 OH), mg/l BDL 18. Mercury (as Hg), mg/l BDL 19. Cadmium (as Hg), mg/l BDL 20. Selenium (as Se), mg/l BDL 21. Arsenic (as As), mg/l BDL 22. Cyanide (as CN), mg/l BDL 23. Lead (as Pb),mg/l BDL 24. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l BDL 25. Aninoic Detergents (as MBAS), mg/l - 26. Chromium (as cr6+), mg/l BDL 27. Mineral Oil, mg/l BDL

28. Alkalinity (as CaCO3), mg/l 80 29. Aluminum (as Al), mg/l BDL 30. Coliform Organism MPN/100 ml - 31. Sodium Absorption Ratio 0.081

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Table 3.22- Water Quality Criteria as per CPCB Guidelines for Aquatic Resources

Designated-Best-Use Class of Criteria water Drinking water Source without A 1. Total Coliforms Organism MPN/100ml shall be 50 or conventional treatment but after less disinfection. 2. pH between 6.5 and 8.5 3. Dissolve Oxygen 6mg/l or more 4. Biochemical Oxygen Demand 5 Days 200C 2 mg/l or less Outdoor Bathing (organised) B 1. Total Coliforms Organism MPN/100ml shall be 500 or less 2. pH between 6.5 and 8.5 3. Dissolve Oxygen 5mg/l or more 4. Biochemical Oxygen Demand 5 Days 200C 3 mg/l or less Drinking water Source after C 1. Total Coliforms Organism MPN/100ml shall conventional treatment disinfection. be 5000 or less 2. pH between 6 and 9 3. Dissolve Oxygen 5mg/l or more 4. Biochemical Oxygen Demand 5 Days 200C 3 mg/l or less Propagation of wildlife and D 1. pH between 6.5 and 8.5 fisheries. 2. Dissolve Oxygen 4mg/l or more 3. Free Ammonia (as N) 1.2 mg/l or less Irrigation Industrial Cooling E 1. pH between 6.0 and 8.5 Controlled Waste Disposal. 2. Electrivity conductivity at 250C micro mhos/cm Max. 2250. 3. Sodium absorption Ratio Max. 26 4. Boron Max. 2 mg/l Below E Not meeting A, B, C, D & E Criteria

Table 3.22 above gives water quality criteria as per CPCB guidelines for Aquatic resources.

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3.6.4 Ambient Noise Level

3.6.4.1 Location Details

For the measurement of noise levels 3 nos. of locations in the surrounding area of proposed SHP are selected as per description given in table 3.23.

Table 3.23 - Ambient Noise Monitoring Location

Sl.No. Location Details Location Code Direction from the Sobla 1. Sobla Village ANQS - 1 - 2. Nyu Village ANQS - 2 S 3. Near Diversion Site ANQS - 3 N

3.6.4.2 Noise Monitoring Frequency

Noise measurements have been carried out once in the season at all the three monitoring stations. At each monitoring station, Leq. Noise level has been recorded at hourly intervals for 8 hours continuously by operating the noise recording instrument for five minutes during each hour.

3.6.4.3 Results and Discussions

Summarised results have been presented in table 3.24 and compared with the standard specified in schedule III, Rule 3 of Environmental Protection Rules given in table 3.25.

Table 3.24 - Summarised Noise Level (dB) data of various locations

Location Location Day Time Code Max. Min. Avg. Sobla Village ANQS - 1 44.4 37 .2 41.6 Nyu Village ANQS – 2 48.1 38.1 42.8 Near Diversion Site ANQS – 3 47.2 38.9 43.2 All Values in dB (A).

Table 3.25 - Ambient Quality norms in respect of noise (As per Schedule III, Rule 3 of Environment Protection Rules)

Type of Area Day (06.00 – 21.00 hrs.) Night (21.00 – 6.00 hrs.) Industrial Area 75 70 Commercial Area 65 55 Residential Area 55 45 Silence Zone 50 40 All Values in dB (A)

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All the noise-monitoring stations are falling in “Residential Areas” and Silence area. The result satisfies the prescribed norms, in general.

3.6.5 Soil Characteristics Thickness of topsoil in the study area varies from 0.5 to 1 m (approx), the average being 0.7m. Area is hilly so thickness of top soil layer is not very high. To assess the quality of soil in and around the study area, soil samples were collected from four locations for physico chemical analysis. Table 3.26 lists the soil sampling locations.

Table 3.26 - Soil sampling locations

Sample No. Location Distance Direction from Type of land Proposed site (Sobla village) SS – 1 Sobla Village - Agriculture Land SS – 2 Dar Village 2.0 ENE Agricultural Land SS – 3 Khairi Village 1.0 E Agricultural Land SS - 4 Nyu Gaon 1.5 S Agricultural Land

3.6.5.1 Soil Analysis Discussion The soil texture analysis consists of determination of the percentage of the particles of different sizes (i.e. sand, silt and clay), as they exist in soil. The soil textures have a profound influence on tree and plant growth because of moisture retention, nutrient supplies, aeration and root development. The soils having a clay and sandy clay texture get easily eroded and washed during rains. Physical properties of soil are presented in table 3.27.

Table 3.27 - Physical properties of Soil

Parameters SS – 1 SS – 2 SS – 3 SS - 4 Texture Sandy Sandy Sandy Sandy Color Blackish grey Blackish grey Greyish Black Greyish Black Bulk Density (g/cc) 1.17 1.15 1.24 1.21 Water Holding Capacity % 40.6 34.2 35.4 27.8

The pH value is more important because it determines the soils for growth of plants, availability of nutrients, bacterial activity and the physical condition. Soil microbial activity is also dependent on pH. The soil may be termed as suitable for plant growth if its pH value ranges between 6 - 8. While afforestation is necessary to keep the pH in limits by growing suitable tree species. The pH value is ranging from 7.11 to 8.37 which indicate that the soil is suitable for plant growth. Chemical properties of soil are presented in table 3.28

39 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Table 3.28 - Chemical properties of Soil

Parameters Location Code SS – 1 SS - 2 SS - 3 SS -4 pH 7.53 8.37 7.11 7.82 Electrical Conductivity (ms/cm) 0.262 0.247 0.094 0.068

Electrical conductivity is a measure of the soluble salts and ionic activity in the soil. In the collected soil samples the conductivity ranged from 0.068 to 0.262 ms/cm. Salt concentration is directly proportional to the osmotic pressure which governs the process of osmosis in the soil plant system. Since the salt concentration in the study area soil, is slightly good.

The organic matter is related to soil genesis and soil fertility. It includes altered and rather resistant organic residues of plants, animals and micro organisms at various stages of decomposition (sometimes termed as ‘humus’) and little altered organic residues of plants, animals and living & dead micro-organism subject to rather rapid decomposition in the soils. The percentage of organic matter in the forest dominated hills area varies between 0.31-3.0% whereas in the study area it is varying between 1.47 to 3.32 %, thus indicating that the soil are rich in mineral constitutes. Available Nuterients present in soil are mention in table 3.29.

Table 3.29 - Available Nutrients in Soil Parameters Location Code SS - 1 SS - 2 SS - 3 SS - 4 Organic carbon (%) 1.65 1.08 0.62 0.81 Organic matter 3.32 2.29 1.47 1.81 Available Nitrogen (kg/ha) 630 785 905 1061 Available Phosphorous (kg/ha) 9.3 13.1 11 19.7 Available Potassium (kg/ha) 118 210 78 38

Organic Carbon values are in high range. Input on minimum doses compost & Nitrogen manure or bio-manures are desirable to bring the status of these elements to a satisfactory level or to expect good crop yields.

Phosphorous and nitrogen are limiting nutrients. In the tested soil samples nitrogen and phosphorous was available in low & medium quantities. This indicates small quantity of nitrogenous fertilizer to improve crop productivity. Potassium levels are also found in lower to medium land. Rating of soil are presented in table 3.30.

40 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Table 3.30 - Rating of soil Low Medium High Organic Carbon % < 0.5 0.5 – 0.75 > 0.75 Available Nitrogen < 280 280 - 560 > 560 Available Phosphorus < 10 10 – 25 >25 Available Potassium < 120 120 - 280 > 280 Values of available Ca & Mg are in high range, which indicate that the soil processes have good exchange capacity and will respond satisfactorily when properly fertilized & manured. Exchangeable cations and these ratings are shown in table 3.31. Table 3.31 - Exchangable Cations Parameters Location Code SS - 1 SS - 2 SS - 3 SS - 4 Calcium (meq/100gm) 0.3 0.53 0.024 0.216 (45.32) (46.74) (31.57) (59.67) Magnesium (meq/100gm) 0.32 0.51 0.024 0.072 (48.33) (45.15) (31.58) (19.89) Sodium (meq/100gm) 0.015 0.044 0.01 0.01 (2.27) (3.88) (13.16) (2.76) Potassium (meq/100gm) 0.027 0.048 0.018 0.064 (4.08) (4.23) (23.68) (17.68) Total Bases (meq/100 gm) 0.662 1.134 0.076 0.362 (100) (100) (100) (100) Figures in parenthesis gives the % contribution of the respective cation of the total Cations.

Heavy metals are integrated components of the biosphere and thus occur naturally in soils and plants. Out of seventeen essential elements known to be essential for plant growth, eight are required in such small quantity that they are called micronutrients or trace elements. These are iron, manganese, Zinc, copper, boron, molybdenum, cobalt and chlorine. Other element such as silicon, vanadium and sodium appear to be helpful for the growth of certain species. Available micronutrients and there critical limit present in soil sample are presented in table 3.32 and 3.33.

Table 3.32 – Available Micronutrients in Soil

Parameters Location Code SS - 1 SS - 2 SS - 3 SS - 4 Copper 0.37 0.34 0.32 0.18 Zinc 2.28 5.64 0.70 0.84 Iron 14.88 2.80 9.2 2.64 Manganese 2.43 2.0 0.95 0.60 (Values in mg/kg)

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Table 3.33 - Critical limits (mg/kg)

1. Iron - 4.5 – 6.0 2. Copper - 0.20 – 0.66 3. Zinc - 0.50 – 0.65

In this region soils are alkaline in nature derived from the sub aerial weathering under climatic condition of alternate wet and dry season with high rainfall. Excess phosphate may encourage a deficiency of zinc, iron and copper in any area. Phosphorus in study area is found medium level. Also heavy nitrogen fertilization intensifies copper deficiencies. In this area both nutrients are found in low to medium range.

3.6.6 Land Environment

The project is situated in district Pithoragarh of Uttarakhand state. The dam site lies about 0.75 approx. km NW of Sobla village, at a height of about 2000 m above MSL. Parameters involved in land environment are physiography, geology, minerals, soils, land use pattern and seismicity. These are already discussed in chapter 1.

3.6.6.1 Land Use Pattern

Land use and land cover patterns are important in environment impact assessment study. The land use describes its use such as agriculture, settlement, etc and land cover, describes the material on it such as forest, vegetation, rocks or building etc. The land use pattern of Pithoragarh distt. and Dharchula block are presented in table 3.34 and 3.35. Forest are spread over 50.0% in the district area, Agriculture waste land area occupies 9.9% and Barren and uncultivable land are 5.1%. Table 3.34 - Land Use Pattern of Pithoragarh District

Sl.No. Land Use Area in Hectare 1. Total Land Area 410640 2. Land under Forest 205239 3. Agricultural waste land 40899 4. Present waste land 1359 5. Other waste land 6174 6. Land not fit for agriculture purposes 20679 7. Land utilized for than agriculture 9999 8. Pasture land 53156 9. Land used for trees, orchards etc. 27451 10. Carsent fallow land 45774 11. More than one time fallow land 38260 12. Total area sown 84034 Source Statistical book Pithoragarh, 02-03

42 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

The proposed SHP dam site is located near Sobla Village of Dharchula block of Pithoragarh distt. Land required for different works of project and its use is presented in table 3.35. The area of submergence is very small due to steep slopes of the river valley.

The proposed project is falling under Dharchula block of Pithoragarh. The study depicts that more than 54.1% of the area is covered by mixed jungle forest and about 8% is barren with rocky outcrops. About 10% is under cultivation, 1% in water bodies and less than 1% in settlement/roads. Table 3.35 - Land Use Pattern of Dharchula Block

Sl. Land use Area in Hectare No. 1. Total Land Area 70139 2. Land under Forest 37940 3. Agricultural waste land 6502 4. Present waste land 2 5. Other waste land 2315 6. Land not fit for agriculture purposes 3258 7. Land utilized for Other purposes except agriculture 437 8. Pasture land 11492 9. Land used for trees, orchards etc. 4560 10. Carsent fallow land 3633 11. More than one time fallow land 3312 12. Total area sown 6945 Source Statistical book Pithoragarh, 02-03

It is observed that neither any agricultural land nor any house/structure is coming under submergence. The project is under rehabilitation, so new construction works will be minimum. Most of the existing establishment will be used by UJVNL. Detailed of land required as per UJVNL is presented in table 3.36.

Table 3.36 - Land Requirement for the Project

Existing land (in acre) Forest Van Panchayat Civil Benap Nap land Total - 0.078 HA 0.3 ha 0.043 ha 0.421 ha

Sl. Description Land Requirements (HA) No. Forest Private Total Proposed land 1. Diversion Site: Desilting tank, Channel 2. Power house 3. Power Sub Station 4. Official Building 5. Staff colony Total 0.276 0.058 0.334

43 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

3.6.7 Socio-Economic Status In the process of planning, the study of socio-economic profile of any region or an area holds an important place. For it helps in accessing the potentialities and weakness of the region, helps in understanding the dynamic of forces operating within the region and suggests possible areas of interventions. The success of any project/programme, therefore, depends to a large extent, upon the potentialities and resources the region offers, and their judicious exploitation. This socio economic study is based on survey/interview of local people and Govt. Statistical data reference paper.

The state of Uttrakhand encompasses a geographical area of 53483 sq.km. which accounts for only 1.63 percent of India’s area. The state contains about 4.53 percent of India’s forest area and about 3.1 percent of India’s agriculture area. 43.6 percent of the agricultural area is under irrigation as against the national average of 40.3 percent and average rainfall is also above the national average. The ratio of irrigated area in the hills and plains is 10.1: 88 in Uttrakhand. Some facts about district with contest of state and India is presented in table 3.37 as geographical indicators.

Table 3.37 - Geographical Indicators Sl.No. Indicators India Uttrakhand Pithoragarh 1. Total Geographical Area (Sq. Km.) 3287240 53483(1.63 %) 7090 (0.22%) 2. Area Under forest (Sq. Km.) 765210 34651(4.53%) 3544 (0.46%) 3. Area Under Agriculture (ha) 183016000 5671704 1450 4. Area Under irrigation (%) 40.3 43.6 (7709 ha) 1.9 5. Average annual rain fall (mm) 1432 1547 1408 Source: Indiastat and Uttrakhand at a Glance 2006-07 Figure in parenthesis are the % of India.

Uttarakhand is sparsely populated, which has total 13 districts, 40 Tehsils, 95 Community Development Blocks and 16414 villages. However, the total population of the state according to 2001 census is 84,79,562 comprising of 43,16,401 males and 41,63,161 females which accounted for 0.83% of the country’s population. The sex ratio is 964 females as per 1000 males. The literacy rate is 72.28 percent with 84.01% for males and 60.26% for females.

3.6.7.1 Economy The economy of the Uttarakhand state is mainly agriculture based. Tea cultivation mainly takes place in maximum area of Kumaon and Garhwal regions between Himalaya and Shiwalik ranges. However, the total forest area in state is 63 percent of the total area but the cultivate area is 12.5 percent only. The total irrigated area in the state is about 11.5 lakh hectare.

44 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

Besides agriculture tourism and hydroelectric power projects the main industrial sector which is backbone of economy of Uttarakhand. Nevertheless in recent a rapid growth of industries sector in some place of Uttarakhand has been done and as a result of scientific and technological developments is the result of human activities and thus, the whole human race is concerned with the associated negative impact due to technological, physiological, psychological, environmental and socio-economic factors. These industrial growths ultimately affect in many fold of concerned area of Uttarakhand.

The study area is the gateway of Darma valley. The valley is inhabited by Bhotias who are locally known as Darmani. The villagers migrate to the lower location situated at or above 3500 ft. between Dharchulla and Jauljibi during Month of October and November to spend winter in relatively warmer areas. They return to Darma valley in March April.

3.6.7.2 Area, Population and Family No. As per 2001 census, the total population of the Pithoragarh district is 4,62,289 with male population of 2,27,615 and female population of 2,34,674. There is an increase of 10.95% in population in comparison of 1991 census. The population was 3,35,172 in 1981 and 2,86,550 in 1991. The district is not densely populated. The population density per sq. km.is 65 in 2001. Study area is mainly falling under Dharchula block which area, No. of villages and existing family no. is presented in table 3.38 whereas population details of Pithoragarh district and Dharchula block is presented in table 3.39 and 3.40.

Table 3.38 - Size of block, No. of villages and No. of family in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh district

Name of block Area in sq.km. No. of Villages No. of family Dharchula 2884 72 9795 Pithoragarh Distt. 7090 1579 98510

Table 3.39 - Population details of Pithoragarh district

Year Total Population S.C Population S.T. Population 1981 Male 180241 48599 8760 Female 184961 46546 8577 Total 365202 95145 17337 1991 Male 209177 46613 9081 Female 207470 44845 9071 Total 416647 91458 18152 2001 Male 227615 53501 9422 Female 234674 52948 9857 Total 462289 106449 19279 (Source :- District Statistical handbook year 2005)

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Table 3.40 - Population statistics of Dharchula block

Year Total Population S.C Population S.T. Population Dharchula Male 25734 4282 3271 Female 25292 4391 3301 Total 51026 8674 6572

The majority of the population lives in villages as indicated by the rural population of 402456. The sex ratio in the district is 1031 females per 1000 males. The total population in Pithoragarh distt.of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes is 1,06,449 and 19279 which is 27.2% of total population. The religion wise populations are as 4,56,277 (98.70%) Hindu, 4031 (0.87%) Muslims, 1215 (0.26%) Partian, 437 (0.09%) Sikhs, 17 (0.004 %) Jain, 206 (0.0041 %) Budha and 98 (0.02%) has not mention their religion.

3.6.7.3 Educational Level Despite a generous fund flow from the Central Government for the SARVA SHIKHSHA ABHIYAN (Project-Education for all) during the past five years, the state government does not seem to have achieved the target. The Govt. has also initiated in the 13 district of the state, various education scheme for the physically and mentally challenged children under the schemes like education guarantee scheme (EGS), integrated education development (IED), girl child education and alternative education and so on. The important aim of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) is to make the primary education available to the age group of 6-14. They are compulsorily to be educated up to standard five by 2007 and standard eight up to 2010. Population and literacy rate of all thirteen district of State are presented in table 3.41.

Table 3.41 - Litracy rate of the State: district-wise (2001 Census) Literacy Rate (Percent) Sl. No. District Total Male Female 1. Udham Singh Nagar 64.9 75.2 53.4 2. Pithoragarh - Garhwal 77.5 90.9 65.7 3. Hardwar 63.8 73.8 52.1 4. Dehradun 79.0 85.9 71.2 5. Nainital 78.4 86.3 69.6 6. Almora 74.0 89.0 61.0 7. Tehri-Garhwal 66.7 85.3 49.4 8. Pithoragarh 76.0 90.1 62.6 9. Pithoragarh 75.4 89.7 61.6 10. Uttarkashi 65.7 83.6 46.7 11. Bageshwar 71.3 87.7 57.0 12. Rudra Prayag 73.7 89.8 59.6 13. Champawat 70.4 87.3 54.2 14. Uttrakhand 71.6 83.3 59.6 15. India 64.8 75.3 53.7

46 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

While large populations certainly inhibit development, the lack of key social infrastructural like education, female literacy, female health services boost population growth. The country has dramatically improved literacy from an average of 12 percent in 1947 to 65.4 percent in 2001 but still the country is woefully behind even countries like Vietnam (1991, 92 percent), Malaysia (1995, 84 percent), Indonesia (1995, 84 percent), and Myanmar (1995, 74 percent). Literacy rate of Pithoragarh district is shown in table 3.42 while Dharchula block is presented in table 3.34. School and Colleges available in Dharchula block and Pithoragarh district are presented in table 3.44.

Literacy picked up and as people become educated, they looked for better jobs elsewhere in the plains. Due to increase level of awareness about education literacy rate in Darma valley according to the 2001 census report ranges from 64.03 to 93%.

Table3.42 - Literacy Rate of Pithoragarh district

Literate Person % of Literacy Male Female Total Male Female Total 1991 137574 72504 210078 80.31 42.41 61.38 2001 170872 125490 296362 90.06 62.59 75.95

On social indicators Uttrakhand fares quite well with a literacy rate of 71.6 % against the national figure of 64.8 %. Some hill districts have a literacy rate above the state average. As expected the literacy rate for females is lower than that for males; more than 80 % of the males are literate and the female literacy rate varies across districts. However, the unexpected part is that these numbers are much higher than the national average. This can be considered a unique feature and the main reason for rapid growth. Table 3.43 - Literacy rate of Dharchula block wise (2001 Census)

Literate Person % of Literacy Male Female Total Male Female Total Dharchula 17612 10263 27875 83.8 49.07 66.48

In terms of basic education, the number of school/colleges in the state in 2003-04 was 19700, which accounted for 1.7 % of the national figure. Figure for 08-09 shows that there were 1,22,838 students in the Pithoragarh distt. compared to Uttarakhand state 2302066 in around 5.3%. The number of student in the hills is 53.5 % of the state total whereas students in the plains make up 46.5 %. As per September 2008 statistics total working teacher in primary school of Pithoragarh distt. are 1596 and upper primary school are 817 while vacant post of both category are 618 which account 7.2% of state total vacant post in both category.

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Table 3.44 - School and Colleges in Dharchula block and Pithoragah distt.

Jr. Basic Sr. Basic School Hr. Secondary Degree College PG College School School Total Girls Total Girls Total Girls Total Girls Dharchula 174 34 8 13 - 1 - - - Pithoragarh Distt. 1252 300 60 137 13 4 - 2 - Year – 04-05

3.6.7.4 Village Status Pithoragarh district have 1579 villages of different size. Population wise existing village status of Dharchula are presented in table 3.45.

Table 3.45 - Population wise Nos. of villages in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh distt.

Less than 200 - 499 500 - 999 1000 -1499 1500 - 1999 2000 - 4999 More than Total

200 5000 Dharchula 27 17 9 7 6 3 1 70

Pithoragarh 930 457 142 32 9 8 1 1579 Distt. As per 2001 3.6.7.5 Occupational Pattern The study of distribution of work force, among different sectors and occupation, assumes a significant place in the process of planning as it enables the planners to understand the pattern of their utilization, on one hand, and the important role each sector plays within their respective regional economics. As per census 2001 block wise economical distribution of population are presented in table 3.46.

Table 3.46 - Economical distribution of population Farmer Faring Domestic Marginal other Total worker worker worker Dharchula 7995 169 1030 9281 5200 23675 Pithoragarh 74361 615 4415 74647 124062 198709 Distt As per year 2001 Percentage of cultivators and people in Govt. service is indicative of changed lifestyles in the valley. Locals now began to give up the traditional way of living for a modern and relatively easier and physically less demanding way of living. This changes the demography of the area completely. Now only few peoples (25-30 % approx) of the area engage themselves in the traditional way of living. Local inhabitants now come to their villages only to perform traditional pujas (worship) and for customary celebrations, thus keeping the link their roots intact.

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3.6.7.6 Health Health facilities available in Dharchula block and Pithoragarh distt. are presented in table 3.47.

Table 3.47 - Health facilities available in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh distt. Name of Allopathic Primary No. Total Staff Ayurvedic Homeopathic Block Hospital health of Doctor Paramedical Other Hospital Doctor Hospital Doctor Centre bed Dharchula 7 1 32 5 39 22 7 4 - - Pithoragarh 46 18 610 54 319 220 52 29 6 5 Distt* As per year 2004-05

3.6.7.7 Basic Facilities available in study area The primary purpose of social sector schemes has been to provide basic minimum needs to as many focus group households, as possible, so that their socio economic level and status be uplifted and they be brought back into the main stream of development to enable them to benefit from other development programmes that are in vogue. An attempt has also been made to study the available amenities in the study area which is presented in table 3.48 and 3.49.

Table 3.48 - Details of electrified Villages and available roads in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh district Sl. No. Name of Block Total Electrified Length of Road (inKm.) Villages Villages Total PWD 1. Dharchula 72 42 134 95 2. Pithoragarh Distt* 1672 1369 1160 818 As per year 2004-05

Table 3.49 - Other facilities like Post Office, Telegraph Office, PCO and Telephone available in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh district

Sl.No. Name of Block Post Telegraph PCO Telephone Bus Stop Office 1. Dharchula 54 - 23 733 37 2. Pithoragarh Distt* 318 9 509 14699 685 As per year 2004-05

3.6.7.7 Methodology for Socio economic survey A random sample of villagers/respondents of study area from Dharchula block of 50 households was drawn and for collection of necessary data pre tested questionnaire (a formate of questionnaire attach as Annexure at the end of report) were adopted for collection of socio- economic data with the emphasis of family size, main occupation, income source, health of people, diseases, cooking fuel used etc. from the total 8 villages spread in surrounding of Sobla consisting from Dharchula block have been randomly selected. Further, 50 house holds were randomly selected after villages listing of households. Of these, 27 households are marginal, 11

49 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL small, 8 medium and farmers 1 are large. However, 3 are either landless or employed with service/traders. Before collection of primary data from selected villagers, a rapid survey i.e. an interaction with villagers helped study the perception, behaviour and attitude of the villagers. Population statistics of near by Villages are presented in table 3.50.

Table 3.50 - Population Statistics of surveyed villages

Sl. Village No of Total Male Female Sex Literacy Male Female No. Name House Populat Ratio Rate Literacy Literacy hold ion Rate Rate 1. Sobla 29 155 73 82 1123 52.67 81.35 20.75 2. Baram 198 904 490 414 845 71.68 86.70 54.05 3. Suwa 100 648 336 312 929 62.14 81.71 42.20 4. Syankuri 243 1384 719 665 925 73.18 92.17 53.51 5. Umachiya 64 344 184 160 870 67.13 90.54 41.48 6. Watan 13 75 43 32 744 52.83 67.85 36.0 7. Dar 102 544 299 245 819 46.96 64.31 25.60 8. Nyu 50 231 125 106 848 71.50 86.45 54.21

3.6.7.7.1 Occupational Status The occupation (main and subsidiary) of surveyed households has also been studied. The analyzed data shows that a majority of studied households (i.e. 72%) have farming as the main occupations followed by farming and dairying. However, a smaller numbers of households have dairying or poultry as a subsidiary occupation. The collected information about size of holding and occupational pattern is presented in table 3.51 and 3.52.

Table 3.51 - Size of Holding Sl. No. Size of Holding

1. Marginal (less than 0.5 ha) 27 2. Small (0.50 to 1.00 ha) 11 3. Medium (1.00 to 2.00 ha) 8 4. Large (2 to 4) 1 5. Above 4 Nil

Table 3.52 - Occupational Pattern of Selected Households Sl. Occupation No. Agriculture Dairying Business Service Others Total

1. 20 10 6 8 6 50

Traditionally, the main occupation of the villagers in the region had been trading, sheeps rearing and cultivation of mainly wheat/rice and potatoes during summer months between June and October.

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In the present study, the main occupation considered is the one which earns more than 50% of their annual in come. But, an occupation which earns them less than 50% annual income to the selected farmers is considered to be subsidiary occupation. In the present case, some farmers are also observed to be depending on the subsidiary occupation. The subsidiary occupations are mainly poultry farming, dairying, business, service it include retired person etc, which generally supplements the farmer’s income.

3.6.7.7.2 Cooking Fuel The selected households spread over study area falling under Dharchula block. Villagers were interviewed and data related to their fuel use were collected. Due to availability of LPG gas Suppliers in Dharchula and subsidiary to BPL people some villagers are using gas for cooking purposes. Villagers are also interested to take gas connection but due to distance and blockage of road due to land sliding it was very difficult to supply daily needs including LPG cylindar. Three reasons are main obstacle to take a connection i.e. easy availability of wood, minimum income source and and Road blockage due to land sliding. The analyzed data presented in table 3.53.

Table 3.53 - Cooking Fuel Used Source of Cooking Fuel Number of Sl. Fire wood, families Fire wood Biomass and No. dung cake & Kerosene Oil LPG Electricity studied & biomass dung cakes biomass 1. 50 22 8 9 1 10 -

However, 20 families used firewood, dung cakes and biomass. The size of holding of a large number of marginal and small farmers in particular is very small; therefore the availability of bio-mass to these families dependent on farm is insufficient. Hence, these families depend mainly on fire wood, collected from nearby forest. Thus, the forest area is decreasing year after year, which is a matter of serious concern because of increasing depletion of forest and consequently environment pollution.

A large quantity of animal dung is available annually in the village area of Dharchula block, which is generally wasted by burning the dry dung cakes for cooking purposes. Details of animal available in Dharchula block is presented in table 3.54

Table 3.54 Animal available in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh district

Cow Buffalo Sheep Goat Horse Pig Others Total

Dharchula 35973 7405 16512 17995 564 39 3274 81762

Pithoragarh Distt 240748 86877 32804 145173 1043 138 18781 525577 As per 2003

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It is, in fact, a heavy cost to the society, that the fresh dung could have 'been used for producing bio-gas to replace kerosene oil and fire wood used in the surveyed villages. Apart from this bio- gas slurry might have been used as organic manure to replace fertilizer application.

3.6.7.3 Health and Health Care The households were also interviewed for collecting the data pertaining to health and health care. The data of different households and different villages revealed that of the total 50 households studied, 20 percent suffered from several diseases during the last five years i.e. 2003 to 2008 approx. The collected information is presented in table 3.55.

Table 3.55 - Disease and their proportion found in surveyed villages

Disease Name Percent Fever/typhoid 14 Respiratory diseases 07 Dysentery& Diarrhea 12 Tuberculosis 02 Lever ailment 02 Other diseases 08 Reporting no diseases 05

Effective curative and preventive measures, such as the implementation of vaccination and inoculation scheme, improvement of environmental sanitation and provision of better medical facilities will minimize disease.

3.6.7.4 Family Budgets The information/ data pertaining to consumption and expenditure on different items of meet their requirement is also collected from randomly selected households of different villages.

The analysis reveals that most of the families are non-vegetarian. However, vegetarian are also in large numbers. But, non-vegetarians are generally, medium and large farmers or families of services/ business occupation. Further, wheat and rice are the staple food of all the families and milk, curd is a preferred diet in common. The average family budget are presented in table 3.56

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Table 3.56 - Family Budgets Sl. Particulars Average Expenditure Remarks ( if any) No. (Percent) 1. Fooding 65 Average size of rural family = 4 2. Clothing and health care 10

3. Health care 8 4. Education 50 5. Recreation 2.0 6. Religious discourse 1.0 7. Transportation 4.0 8. Others 5.0 Total 100

The average family expenditure is a function of total annual income of the families which varies according to the level of income earned annually. In brief, the families expenditure is directly linked with the level of Income.

Most of the people in study area are generally vegetarian. They consume wheat, rice mandua, jower, komi and madira. Total cereal consumption is high than the normally required. Hard work and cold climate necessitate greater consumption of cereals. Generally soyabean, black gram and lentil are used as pulses but its consumption is very low. Milk and curd are consumed in every family. Food diet are usually inadequate in animal protein, fat, vitamins and minerals.

The perception of local residents shows that the area needs a marked improvement in facilities like irrigation, agriculture, production, wage rates whereas determination was also observed on areas like infrastructural i.e. road, electricity, education and health facilities, natural disaster is also responsible for development of any programme or project in this area.

The foregoing facts reveal that the level of income determines the living status i.e. living standard is directly influenced by level of income. Further, it is also observed that most of marginal and small farmers depended on their small size of holdings and thus, their income is quite meagre. Also several families have unemployed youths.

3.6.7.8 Agriculture 3.6.7.8.1 Irrigation Facilities Assured means of irrigation ensure better prospects for agricultural development. The study of sources of irrigation helps in evaluating and even predicting the future prospects for agricultural operations. The study of distribution of irrigation sources in study area shows that agriculture is mainly dependent on rainfed, canals and Gul in the whole district. Table 3.57 shows irrigation facilities available while table 3.58 shows irrigated land by different facilities in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh distt.

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Table 3.57 - Irrigation facilities in Dharchula block and Pithoragarh district

Length Bore Well Well Hauz. Gul Hydrum of Canal Govt. Private (Pucca) (No.) (Km.) (No.) (in Km.) Dharchula 51 - - - 232 118 - Pithoragarh 404 - - - 2705 982 159 As per year 2004-05

Table 3.58 - Irrigated Land area in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh district (In hectare)

Canal Bore Well Well Pond Other Total Govt. Private Dharchula 157 - - - - 301 458 Pithoragarh 1594 - - - - 2479 4673 As per year 2002-03

3.6.7.8.2 Land Holding The development of agriculture also depends, to a large extent, upon the pattern of land distribution in the region besides other factors like the use of improved seeds, fertilizers, irrigation facilities etc. if the distribution of land is highly skewed, scientific cultivation could not be implemented beyond a certain extent which limits the scope of agricultural development. Therefore, analysis of distributor of land into various sizes of holdings assumes significance. Land holding size in Dharchula block & Pithoragarh Distt. is presented in table 3.59.

Table 3.59 - Size of Land Holding Land Holding size in Hectare Less than 0.5 to 1.0 to 2.0 2.0 to 4.0 4.0 to More than Total land 0.5 hect. 1.0 hect. hect. hect. 10.0 hect. 10.0 Holding size and area Dharchula 5989 2360 1231 254 24 3 9864 (1384) (1626) (1655) (662) (120) (84) (5331) Pithoragarh 53974 21282 9663 1898 164 14 86995 Distt. (12576) (14844) (12947) (4839) (856) (276) (46338)

Results in parenthesis shows area in hectare

The study and distribution pattern shows that land distribution in hill area is more acute or skewed. It could be seen that 60.7% of the cultivators has less than 0.5 hectare of land holding.

3.6.7.8.3 Use of Agriculture tools & Fertilizer The improvement in the performance of agriculture sector, over the last few decades, has only been possible on account of consistent changes, brought about from time to time, in various facts of agricultural operation. The regions, that have marched ahead, over the others have largely

54 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL been an account of the fact that they have discarded traditional mode of cultivation and have shifted to modern and scientific methods tool and inputs. Traditional plough was being taken all over the district. Use of Agricultural tools & fertilizer consumption is presented on table 3.60.

Table 3.60 - Use of Agricultural tools, fertilizer and No. of wear house for seed & fertilizer storage Plough Advance Thracing Tractor Fertilizer Distribution (M.Tonne) Seed & Wood Iron Cultivator Machine Nitrogen Phosphorous Potash Total Fertilizer Weir House Dharchula 6196 196 322 - 181 43.71 13.31 0.34 57.16 10 Pithoragarh 47513 261 261 1 181 220.97 101.71 5.7 328.38 102 Distt.

3.6.7.8.4 Cropping Pattern

The crops grown by the farmers in Dharchula block are also studied. The analyzed data revealed that the socio-economic conditions of the farmers is influenced by the pricing policy, climatic conditions and profitability of competing enterprises which in turn influenced the volume of production. The area under different crops and productivity itself vouched this. In fact, area and productivity of crops have changed from year to year during the last several years.

The important crops grown in the kharif season in the area are paddy, and maize whereas the rabi crops are wheat, barley and mustard is also grown as a cash crop. But, the comparative analysis reveals that the farmers cultivated only those crops which utilized more irrigation water, fertilizers and human labour. The area under important crop is presented in table 3.61 and 3.62 while avg. productivity of important and productivity crops is given in table 3.63 and 3.64.

Table 3.61 - Area under important crops in Dharchula block and Pithoragarh district (hectare) Rice Kharif Total Rice Wheat Barley Total Pulse Block Total Irrigated Total Irrigated Total Irrigated Total Irrigated Total Irrigated Dharchula 1474 250 1474 250 2993 421 289 - 88 1 Pithoragarh 23911 4012 23911 4012 27462 3553 3518 19 5254 14 Distt. As per year 2002-2003

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Table 3.62 - Area Under important crops in Dharchula block and Pithoragarh district (hectare) Year 2002-2003 Block Total Maize Total Paddy grains Total Telhan Potato Total Irrigated Total Irrigated Total Irrigated Total Irrigated Dharchula 580 5 6060 676 185 - 325 - Pithoragarh 3290 25 68207 7609 1861 - 953 16 Distt. As per year 2002-2003

The study of land utilization pattern under different crops presents some what similar trend in each year of the whole area. The perusal of table 3.61 and 3.62 shows that rice, wheat, barley is the main crops sown in kharif season with rice accounting for over 32.5 percent and wheat 37.4% of total swon area of district. Almost same tendency have seen in crop production in Dharchula block. Wheat account for 48.7 follows by rice and maize with 24 & 9.4%.

3.6.7.8.5 Crop Productivity The analysis of productivity of different crops reveals that the productivity of some crops has decreased in year 99-2000 from the year of 98-99 and in some other like telhan, the productivity has marginally increased. Although, there are several reasons for decrease in the productivity, yet it is partly due to untimely rains and inadequate irrigation facilities in the study area.

Further, the productivity of maize, paddy and wheat increase in 2002-2003 as compared to 1998- 99 partly due to due even distribution of rains and favorable climatic condition.

Table 3.63 - Average productivity of important crops : Pithoragarh district (Qt. per hect.) Year Total wheat Barley Total Total Total Total Total Patato Tobacco Rice Maize paddy Pulse crops Telhan grains 1998-99 12.72 11.21 9.98 10.37 12.39 6.57 11.75 5.33 228.17 70.58 1999-2000 10.54 13.92 10.50 12.80 12.63 7.44 12.26 7.99 225.36 76.73 2002-2003 12.24 13.42 15.73 9.84 12.86 4.19 12.24 5.73 186.50 0.0

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Table 3.64 - Productivity of important crops : Pithoragarh district (Metric Ton) Year Total wheat Barley Total Total Total Total Total Potato Tobacco Rice Maize paddy Pulse crops Telhan grains 1998-99 25496 24774 3739 3083 71874 4681 76555 1141 59416 367 1999-2000 29709 36663 3715 3430 94489 4203 98692 1527 27156 399 2002-2003 29266 36862 5535 3237 87771 2202 89933 1066 17773 -

3.6.7.8.6 Forest Management Forests are also ecological entities directly and indirectly supporting and sustaining life in varied forms, including humans. In India a large number of indigenous communities live in densely forested areas and depend on them for their life and livelihood. Their dependence on forest is such and association so long that forest has been imbibed in their life and culture. For the same reason they seem to have deep understanding of even the complex ecological issues and have developed indigenous methods of protecting and utilizing the forest in a sustainable manner.

3.6.7.8.6.1 Van Panchayat in Uttarakhand Van Panchayats are a unique institution, characteristic of the state of Uttarakhand, for organized utilization and protection of forests and related natural resources by local communities that are dependent on them. They are locally elected bodies or voluntary groups of local people that govern the local forests with a view to fulfill the needs of local people for forest produce, in a sustainable and equitable manner. Thus Van Panchayats in a way are a form of Local Government. Formally as an institution, Van Panchayats have been in existence now for a little over 75 years. However, the association of people of Uttarakhand with forests and their history of protecting it is much longer and eventful. At present there are 6,777 van Panchayats in Uttarakhand covering an area of 5,241.08 square kilometres (Forest Department, Uttarakhand, May 2001). Forming about 12% of the total forest area of the state.

Geographically Van Panchayats cover a small portion of the forest area of the state, though in some districts namely Almora and Pithoragarh they cover significant; nearly 30% of the total forest area. Practically, Van Panchayats are the only areas of direct involvement of the local communities in managing forests. In the state people have a long history of a strong association with the forests. Thus it is necessary that local people should equally and strongly involved in managing and administering the forest area, especially, in the changing scenario over the last decade. Table-3.65 shows some basic statistics of the Van Panchayats in the state.

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Table 3.65 - Van Panchayat Status in Uttarakhand

District District Population Area under Total Forest Panchayat Number of Area (Ha) Area (1991) Van Forest Area (Ha) Forest Van Per Van (Sq. Panchayats Area (Sq. per Area (Ha) Panchayats 39.90Panc km.) (Sq. km.) Km.) Person per ha79.03yat Person Pauri Garhwal 5440 683000 651.53 4507.14 0.660 0.095 1633 39.90 Chamoli & 9125 455000 618.02 5210.40 1.145 0.136 782 79.03 Rudraprayag Uttarkashi 8016 240000 77.80 6948.30 2.895 0.032 68 114.41 Tihri Garhwal 4421 580000 16.38 4058.90 0.700 0.003 85 19.27 Dehradun 3088 1026000 98.28 2276.89 0.222 0.010 159 61.81 Haridwar 2360 1124000 0.00 375.19 0.033 0.000 0 Garhwal 32450 4108000 1462.01 23376.82 0.57 0.04 2727 53.61 Almora & 5385 837000 1204.75 3944.26 0.471 0.144 1898 63.47 Bageshwar Pithoragarh & 8856 566000 1092.98 3302.43 0.583 0.193 1657 65.96 Champawat Nainital 6794 1540000 286.84 3026.90 0.262 0.019 495 57.96 Udhamsingh 0.00 1011.11 0 Nagar Kumaon 21036 2943000 2584.57 11284.70 0.38 53.61 53.61 53.61 Grand Total 53485 7051000 4046.58 34661.52 0.49 53.61 53.61 53.61 Source : Uttaranchal State Forest Statistics (2000), Forest Department Nainital

Van Panchayat is a democratically elected village level institution set up in Uttarakhand for the management of forests. It is responsible for the management of grazing, collection of full wood, fodder and timber, and protection of community forests. A Van Panchayat can be formed if one third of the inhabitants of a village resolve to form one. At the village level, it is teh sole arbitrator for the management of the Van Panchayat forests. It has linkages with the forest Department for technical assistance and for the preparation of development plans. So without discussion on forest and Van Panchayat Socio-economic study will not completed specially in hill area. There is an urgent need to management of any upcoming project in hilly area to work together with Van Panchayat for Socio, eco and enviro development.

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3.6.8 Ecological Status Ecological situation of Sobla micro hydel site is in the transitional area, out side the buffer zone of the NDBR which is covering some parts of districts Chamoli, Bageshwar and Pithoragarh. The transitional area falls under orobiome – ecotonal zone. This area is as important as the NDBR it self. Ecologically it maintains the high biological diversity and harbours the mix of species, which are found on other side of the ecotonal zone. Ecologically this area not to be safe guarded for the continuity of the species diversity and orobian ecosystem of the NDBR. The Geographical characteristic as well as geological characteristic has been given else where in the report. The ecological climate of the area is temperate sub alpine and alpine. In the following times the vegetation of the zone has been given as per the altitude.

3.6.8.1 Himalayan Moist Temperate Forests These forests have the following subtypes (i) 'Bank oak (Quercus leucotrichophora) forests occupy the altitudinal zone of 1800 to 2100m and descending to 1500 m on northern slopes or even to 1100 m in deep valleys and ravines. Incidently, the zone of its occurrence overlaps the most populated zone of Kumaun. Banj' occurs mostly pure with its chief associates of 'burans', 'ayar' 'kaphal', 'garpipal (Populus ciliata), 'rianj' (Quercus lanuginosa) and 'phaniyat' (Q. glauca), etc. the undergrowth is dense with Viburnum spp., Rubus spp., Berberis asiatica. Desmodium, Indigofera, Rosa moschata, ringal etc.

(ii) 'Tilonj' Oak (Q. dilatata) forests occur between 2000 to 2600 m. being more mesophytic than 'banj' it is being replaced by 'banj' on dry ridges. It also forms almost pure crops with associates like 'burans', 'kaula', Iles chamkharik, (Carpinus viminea) etc. the undergrowth is dense, consisting of Rubus, Spirea, Indigofera Viburnum, Deutzia corymbosa, Strobilanthus, Rosa moschata, etc.

(iii) 'Kharsu' Oak (Q. semecarpifolia) forests grow above the 'tilonj' zone, extending upto tthe tree line. The ground cover may consist of Viburnum species, Strobilanthus, 'ruins' (Cotoneaster acuminata), Rosa moschata, etc.

The three types of oak forests mentioned above constitute the bulk of the broad-leaved forests of the Himalayan zone with 'chir' representing the main conifer species. The oak forests have nearly lost their capacity of regeneration due to overgrazing and heavy lopping. There are ten types of forests in this zone.

The Moist Deodar (Cedrus deodara) Forests occur mostly in small patches, known as 'bain' which appear to have been planted as temple-groves. The bulk of these forests are confined to

59 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL the Pithoragarh District. In Almora district the main ones are Jageshwar and Dhauladevi. The natural regeneration of 'deodar' comes adequately if protection is afforded.

The moist Temperate Deciduous Forests occur on deeper and moist soils, and have a rich variety of species, such as Aesculus indica, Juglans regia, Carpinus viminea, Fraxinus micrantha, Ulmus waltichiana. Betula alnoides, Acer sp. etc. with equally large number of species as the undergrowth.

The Low-level Blue (Pinus wallichiana) is found mixed with 'banj and 'kharsu' in small patches between 1800 and 3000m. some good planted patches are also seen on the Nain ridge in the Nainital Forest Division.

The West Himalayan Upper Oak Fir Forests are found between 2600 and 3400m, with silver fir (Abies pindrow) and rare Picea smithiana (rare).

The western district of East Himalayan Mixed Confiferous 'tansen (Tsuga dumosa), forests with a large number of broad leaf species are confined to 2400-3100 m in the upper reaches of the valleys in the Pithoragarh district along with silver fir (Abies pindrow), blnepine (Pinus wallichiana), and Taxus baccata.

The Montane Bamboo (Ringal) Brakes are commonly seen as undergrowth in high altitude forests above 1500m. The species include 'deoringal' (Thamnocalamus falconeri), 'tham' (Thamnocalamus spathiflorus) and 'jumra' (Arundinaria jaunsarensis) in higher altitude and Arundinaria falcata in the 'bank' forests.

The Cypress Forests are found on dry temperate sites confined to the steep inner ranges. To a limited extent the cypress is often mixed with silver fir and 'kharsu'. In the Nainital Tahsil mainly in the neighbourhood of Nainital, old and new plantations of cypress are quite common.

The Alder Forests are confined to the places which have permanent water supply such as on ralisnewly formed shingle beds in streams and on landlips and screes. These are found throughout the region from 1000 to 3000 m providing greenery to steam banks. 'Utis' (Alnus nepalensis) occurs in strips of varying width. 'Garh pipal' (Populus ciliata), 'chamarmowa' (Ulmus wallichiana), 'pangar' (Aesculus indica) and 'kharak' (Celtis australis) are its common associates.

The Temperate Pastures have resulted from repeated burning and continual grazing near habitation, where a variety of grasses such as Chrysopogon, Heteropogon, Dactylis, Agrostis have found footholds.

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The Oak Scrub Forests developed on an extensive scale, specially in the civil forests, due to degeneration of the oak forests as a result of constant maltreatment through overgrazing, repeated lopping, burning and cutting for firewood. The oaks (mainly 'banj and tilonj') today represented by dead stumps or shrubs are accompanied by thorny bushes of 'kilmora' (Berberis), 'ghingaru' (Crataegus crenulata), jhatela' (Prinsipia utilis), Wikstroemia, Indigofera, Cotoneaster, etc. In fact all oak forests are in a state of degeneration. If this state of affairs is allowed to continue, the entire hill region in due course of time will become barren. Unscientific felling for charcoal and firewood; and clearance of areas in the name of horticultural extension and potato cultivation are responsible for the degeneration of once thick forests of oaks.

The oak forests have also degenerated within the reserved forests, because of unlimited rights and concessions granted to and maltreatment by local villagers, and certainly not by contractors and foresters, as is being wrongly publicised lately.

3.6.8.2 Himalayan Dry-Temperate Forests This type is represented by scrubs of Hippophae – Myricaria occuring in small patches along the inner Himalayan streams between 2300 to 3200m. The Hippophae salicifolia thickets include Salix elegans, Myricaria elegans and germenica spp., Epilobium spp. and occasional Populas ciliata. Higher up this type merges with Juniperous and its associates.

3.6.8.3 Sub-Alpine Forest Two subtypes are discernible. The birch and fir forest growing between 300w and 3500 m comprise fir (Abies spectabilis), birch or 'Bhojpatra' (Betula utilis) and 'kharsu' with undergrowths of Rhododendron campanulatum, Cotoneaster acuminata, Rosa sericea Ribes rubrum, Lonicera sp., Rubus niveus, smilax vaginata, and ringal. The degeneration due to overgrazing in the forests has given rise to sub-alpine pastures having a variety of grasses.

3.6.8.4 Moist Alpine Scrubs The scrubs are a continuation of the alpine pastures below the snow-line. They have, however, a longer snow-free period. Betula utilis, with thickets of Rhododendron campanulatum, Rhododendron anthopogon, Sorbus foliolosa, Berberis kumaonensis, Lonicera parviflora, Juniferous species and a number of flowering plants from the vegetal consociation of the scrubs. The alpine pastures occur above 3500m, the meadows bearing mostly mesophytic herbs such as Primula, Anemone, Iris, Gentiana and many plants of Ranunculacea, Criciferae, Compositae etc.

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Table 3.66 - Habitat and other species associated meadow vegetation

Sunny meadow Continuous green Dominated by Saussurea graminifolia. Other genera: vegetation Ranunculus, Delphinium, Corydalis, Draba, Sisymbrium, Arenaria, Impatiens, Geranium, Potentilla, Saxifraga, Astragalus, Pleurospermum, Gentiana and Swertia. Perennial mesophytic herbs are restricted to the edges of melting snow, e.g. Primula denticulata, P. macrophylla, P. munroi, Kobresia hookeri and Caltha palustris

Alpine scree Dry exposed Dominated by Euphorbia stracheyi. Other species rocks include: Rheum webbianum, R. australe, Saussurea obvallata, S. gossypiphora and Pleurospermum densiflorum. Outlying patches of Rhododendron campanulatum, R. anthopogon, Juniperus recurva, Lonicera myrtillus and Salix fruiticulosa in lower regions of alpine scrub

Shaded Shaded slopes Dominated by the genus Aconitum, principally A. atrox. meadows Other species include Aconitum heterophyllum, A. violaceum, Angelica glauca, Pleurospermum angelicoides, Megacarpaea polyandra, Delphinium cashmirianum and Parnassia pusilla

Glacial moraine - Poor vegetation cover because of debris flows and avalanches. Common species are Epilobium latifolium, Waldheimia glabra, W. tomenosa, Sedum roseum, S. crassipes, Oxyria digyna, Saxifraga imbricata, Salix spp. and Rheum speciforme Alpine stony Virtually covered Highly specialized, short-lived species: Christolea desert with himalayensis, Arenaria spp., Corydalis bowerii, C. snow, except for crithimifolia, Draba spp., Pleurospermum spp., Sedum the bouveri, S. quadrifidum, Androsace spp., two months of Thylacospermum spp., Saussurea gossypiphora and rainfall Cremathodium nanum (June–July)

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Table 3.67 - List of flora found in study area

S. No. Botanical name Local name Trees 1. Aesandra butyracea. Chiura 2. Aesculus indica. Pangar 3. Alnus nepalensis Utees 4. Betula alnoides Saur Bhojapatra 5. Betula utilis Bhojpatra 6. Carpinus viminea Putli 7. Cedrella toona Tun 8. Celtis australis. Kharik 9. Cinnamon tamala Dalchini, Tejpat 10. Dalbergia sissoo Sisham 11. Dandroclamus strictus Bans 12. Ehretia laevis Chamror 13. Erythriana arborescens Dhauldhak 14. Ficus glomerata Gular 15. Ficus hispida Totmila 16. Ficus palmata Bedu / Anjir 17. Ilex excelsa Gauloo 18. Juglans regia Akhrot 19. Litsea glutinosa Singrau/Mai da lakri 20. Myrica esculenta Kaphal 21. Pinus wallichiana Kail 22. Pterocarpus marsupium Bija Sal 23. Quercus leucotrichophora Banj 24. Rhamnus persica Chirla 25. Rhododendron arboreun Burans 26. Rhus japonica Beshmeel 27. Salix acutifolia Bhains 28. Sapindus mukorossi Reetha 29. Sapium insigne Khinna 30. Sorbus aucuparia Mohli Shrubs 1. Ageratum conizoides Gundrya 2. Artemisia vulgaris Kunja 3. Artemisia nilagirica Kunja 4. Arundo donax Tinta 5. Berberis aristata Kingor 6. Berberis lycium Kingor 7. Bistorta amplexicaulis Kutrya 8. Boehmeria platzphylla. Khagsa 9. Cannabis sativa Bhang 10. Cissus rependa Pani-bel 11. Colebrookia oppositifolia Binda 12. Cotoneaster microphyllus Bugarchilla 13. Callicarp arboria Kumahr 14. Duchesnea indica Bhiun-Kaphal

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Herbs 1. Anaphalis adnata Bugla 2. Anemone vitifolia Mudeela 3. Acorus calamus Bauj, Bach 4. Agrostis nervosa - 5. Apium leptophyllum - 6. Arabidopsis thaliana. - 7. Artemisia japonica Patee, Pamsi 8. Bergenia ciliata Silpara 9. Bistorta amplexicaulis Kutrya 10. Centella asiatica Brahmibuti 11. Clematis tibatiana - 12. Curcuma aromatica Ban Haldi 13. Cymbopogon flexuosus - 14. Cymbopogon msrtinii Priya-ghas 15. Cynodon dactylon Dubla 16. Deyeuxia scabescens - 17. Echinops cornigerus Kantela 18. Eragostis poaeoides - 19. Eulaliopsis bineta Babula 20. Impatiens balsamina -

3.6.8.5 Wildlife

Ranging from area under permanent snow cover to the hot sub-tropical jungles of the foothills, the catchment area presents diverse habitats with significant levels of variation. This area is the home of a wide variety of mammals, reptiles and birds. The major part of the catchment area lies in the central Himalayas which has a relatively less rainfall as compared to that of eastern part of the Himalayas and the climate is temperate to sub-temperate with fairly heavy snowfall above 2500 meters. It has restricted the wildlife habitat significantly. Zoo-geographically the study area adjoining the project can be divided into two regions: - Himalayan Foothills - Temperate region

3.6.8.5.1 Himalayan Foot Hills This area has elevation upto 2000 meters. The fauna of this region is more or less similar to that of the Indo-Gangetic plain. This is characterised by grassy meadows and savannah vegetation. This region is reported to harbour various Mammalian fauna i.e. sambhar, barking deer, wild boar, jackal etc. This area was frequented by the famous tiger enthusiast Jim Corbett. However, growth of human settlement have narrowed the wildlife habitat in this area to a significant extent. Due to terrain characteristics, the sighting of wildlife is poor.

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3.6.8.5.2 Temperate region of Western Himalayas

This region comprises the temperate areas above an elevation of 2000 meters. The climate is moist temperate with snowfall in the winter months. The faunal species include jackal, sambhar, cats, brown bear and black bear. Amongst the avi-fauna, the common species include the Himalayan Golden Eagle, Himalayan woodpecker, Indian Mayna,and Hill Patridges. The important faunal species reported in the project area and its surroundings are documented in Table-3.68. These information’s are based on secondary sources as well as field observations during the ecological survey.

Table 3.68 - List of Fauna found in study area

S. No. Zoological Name Local Name Mammals 1. Felis bengalensis Ban Biralu 2. Felis chaus Ban Biralu 3. Hystrix indica Solu 4. Lepus nigricollis Khargosh 5. Macaca mulatto Banar 6. Muntiacus muntjak Kakar 7. Nemarhaedus ghural Gural 8. Panthera pardus Bagh 9. Selenarctos thibetanus Rikh 10. Sus scrofacristatus suwar Birds 1. Acridotheres tristis Myana 2. Alectoris Chukar Chukor 3. Aquila crysaetos Garud 4. Arborophila torqueola Titar 5. Bubo bubo bengalensis Ghughu 6. Corvus macrorhynchos Kawwa 7. Corvus splendens Kawwa 8. Dendrocoposhimalayensis Kathphorwa Reptiles 1. Agama tuberculata Chhipkali 2. Argyrogena ventromaculatus Saanp 3. Varanus bengalensis Goh 4. Xenochrophis piscator Saanp 5. Ptyas mucosus Saanp

The fisheries in the project area are poorly developed due to unfavorable climate. The elevation, temperature, current, velocity and natural biota are the factors governing the growth of fish in the rivers and water bodies in the area. Most of the streams, rivers, and other aquatic body in the upper reaches maintain fairly low temperature which results into low primary productivity.

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Hence, generally small sized fish are available in upper streams. The list of major fish species found in study area are presented in table 3.69.

Table 3.69 - Fish dwelling in the rivers in the surrounding area of the project

Name of the Fish Local Name Family Cyprinidae Schizothorax sinuatus Asala Schizothorax kumaonensis Asala Tor tor Dansulu Tor putitora Dansula Garra lamta Gondal Garra gotyla gotyla Gondal Crossocheilus latius Sunhera Barilius bendelisis Fulra Barilius vagra Fulra Labeo dyocheilus Kharont

Family Cobitidae Noemacheilus botia Gadiyal Noemacheilus rupicola Gadiyal

Family Sisoridae Glyptothorax pectinopterus Nau Pseudoecheneis sulcatus Mungria Nau

Since the fishing is not being practiced in the area hence the quantify of fish is found in water could not be estimated.

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CHAPTER – 4

4.0 Alternatives The development of small hydropower not only in India but also around the world is on the increase. In maximum area of the world has huge potential to further develop hydro power resources. Small hydropower offers a wide range of benefits especially for rural areas and developing countries. The resource is environment friendly and has substantial economic advantage. Uttrakhand has large network of rivers and canals which provides and immense scope for hydro-power energy. There is an urgent need to develop this promising sector of renewable energy as only a fraction of available potential has been harnessed so far.

4.1 General Information

A. Site Information : The entire region is ecological fragile unstable and less rigid from the origination point. The whole area is more sensible and falls under the seismic prone region. The natural hazards both terrestrial and atmospheric can be seen all over Himalyan region. As such the area is restricted so topo sheet of study area is not presented in this report.

B. Geographical Location

Sl. Village Project Proposed Power District Tehsil State No. Code capacity house (MW) site 1. Sobla Sobla - I 8 Sobla Pithoragarh Dharchula Uttarakhand

0 ’ C. Latitude 30 03

800 35’ D. Longitude

E. Elevation above Mean Sea Level (mtr.) 1950

*Diversion site

F. Total Area proposed for the 0.755 Project (in ha.), if any

Forest area (in ha), if any 0.354

G. Nature of Terrain Hilly

H. Technical Classification of Soil (loam, sandy etc./aerial Sandy extent (ha.)

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4.2 Existing land usage of the proposed project site area (in hectares)

In Hectare Total i) Agriculture a) Irrigated - -

b) Unirrigated - -

ii) Homestead - - iii) Forest 0.354 0.354

iv) Grazing - - v) Fallow - - vi) Water bodies - - vii) Marshes - - viii) Others(Pl. Specify) 0.401 0.401

Total

4.4 Alternate sites considered from the environment angle.

Yes

Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Check list for hydropower sector as per ADB is enclosed as appendix at the end of report.

4.4 Reason for selecting the proposed site from the environment & Engineering angle.

 Narrow Gorge.  Hard Rock.  Approach Road available.  Maximum discharge & head available on this location.  Best Option for create Job opportunity in Hill area.  Project to cause Socio Economic development in area.  No submergence.  Not affecting agricultural land.

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Without the project will be omitted because the state has power shortage and has good potential for hydropower and intends to develop a power surplus to faster economic growth. Figure 5.1 shows EIU and there magnitude with project at the end of report. (1) Without the project the energy (mkwh) likely tobe produced shall not be produced. In that event the shortfall between supply and demand will continue which will impact economic growth of the population in the state including the local population and may lead to social backwardness. (2) With the project, the annual energy production in the state shall go up by ….mkwh and shall

cause reduction of…….tons of CO2, if the same quality if energy is produced from a thermal power situation to meet the deficit of that amount.

Identification matrix presented in Chapter – 5 indicate adverse and beneficial impact of a hydel project. Any development work/project in any area gives some adverse impact while another site gives beneficial impact. Increasing population it-self is main root of all problems so any development project especially small hydel project should not be derailed.

Alternative were discussed while finalization of the location of different structures of the project initially when theproject was taken up for construction. Now as all other structures are existing only alternatie site were reviewed for power house. The site considered for which clearance was given by geologist. At this site hard rock is existing in river bank near power house & therefore possibility of scouring is eliminated. The detail is already presented in DPR No other feasible alternative is available for this site.

4.5 Power House Selection Site Three alternatives has been selected choosen for selection of proposed site Old site Proposed site Another New Site Alternative - I Alternative - II Alternative – III 1. Already this site is As per geological survey this site is situated This location is not fit for omitted with hard rock and fulfill all criteria with establishment of power safety angle flow to river not affected this house as per safety point site and fulfill all the reason mention in of view. point 4.4 in same chapter. A Geological Map indicating proposed site is enclosed as figure 2.1 at the end of report.

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CHAPTER – 5 5.0 Introduction

Hydropower development in the country is being given priority to improve the hydrothermal mix, and to optimize the efficiency of the country’s power system and usage of resources for sustainable power generation in an environment-friendly manner. From the operational perspective, hydropower projects also provide synergy for optimizing generation, result in fuel savings, minimize greenhouse gases, and produce power in an environment friendly manner, supporting sustainable development. Hydropower results in energy being generated from renewable resources and avoids emissions from equivalent thermal plants. Table 5.0 presents the emission factors from a comparable coal-fired power plant offset by ensuring power generation from clean hydropower.

Table 5.0 Emission levels from Coal Fired Power Plants (tons/Yr.)

Particular CO2 SO2 NOx TSPM 1 MW @ 50% PLF, 8 14.1 0.074 0.053 0.049 months/Yr

5.1 Anticipated Environmental Impacts and mitigation measures

The first step in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is identification of all potential significant environmental impacts. These are then critically examined and the major impacts (both beneficial and adverse) are analysed in details in this EIA.

In order to ensure comprehensiveness, the various aspects considered in impact identification of the project are as follows:  Project components.  Project phases  Impact generating Activities.  Types of Impacts.

Various techniques are available for impact identification. These include checklists, matrix, networks, cause-effect diagrams, computer simulation models etc. For the present project, the matrix method has been chosen.

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5.2 Identification Matrix The impact identification matrix is shown as figure 5.1 at the end of report. The environmental attributes that may be affected are:  Air  Water  Noise  Soil  Flora & Fauna (Ecology)  Aesthetics  Land use  Socio-economics  Infrastructure  Health & safety.

The various activities have been considered under the four following groups:  Siting  Construction  Operation  Secondary Activities

The activities have been arranged in columns and environmental attributes in rows in the matrix. A Preliminary scrutiny has been done and the cells which fall at the junction of "activity" and "attribute" that have possible interaction with each other have been crossed.

The matrix thus identifies the environmental attributes likely to be affected and the activities responsible for this. The impacts may be beneficial or adverse. These will be analysed during evaluation of the impacts.

5.2.1 Siting This is the first phase of activity in a project and involves:  Construction of access roads.  Site survey.  Site clearing. Since the proposed hydroelectric power project will be set up in the vicinity of trans Himalayas which is an ecofragile and sensitive areas needs a special care during all phases.

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5.2.2 Construction

This will involve excavation, construction, drainage, erection of structures and equipment, engagement of construction labour and laying of drain/pipelines & power lines green belt development will be taken up in the initial phases and hence is included in this phase. Air, water, noise and soil/land may be affected by these activities.

Since the proposed Hydro Power will be developed in the hill area where, no industrial activity is in existence (except small villages) an addition of Hydro Power will also have anticipated negligible impacts on aesthetics and land use. Local labourers will be employed as construction workers and to increase their income. New businesses may develop to cater to the needs of the construction work force. Environmental impacts of preconstruction and construction activities on physical resources, ecological and human environment are as follows:

5.2.2.1. Environmental Impact of preconstruction and Construction Activities

Construction of power house, colony site, transmission lines will involve tree removal along the alignment where required, excavation for installation of towers, erection of towers, erection of substation equipment, civil works related to the transmission line, and line stringing. Table 5.1 indicates the extent of tree removal required for the power house, ADM office/colony site and right-of-way (RoW). SHP construction will involve tree removal at the project site; excavation work; erection of equipment; and civil works relating to construction of the desilting chamber, forebay, penstock, powerhouse, and other related works. During the operation phase, most of the construction phase impacts will be stabilized; impacts during operation and maintenance of the project will be limited. As such the projects under rehabilitation plan so existing land will be utilized by project and removal of free is negoligable. Table 5.1 Extent of tree removal Sl. No. Site Removal of Tree Land Area 1. Power house site Nil - 2. Diversion site Nil Already existing structure no new construction required. 3. Colony site Nil -do- 4. Transmission lines Nil -do- 5. Power Sub Station Nil -do- Total Nil -do-

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Environmental impacts associated with the transmission system, substations, and SHP locations will be studied on a case-by-case basis. The EIAs provide site selection criteria to avoid unnecessary problems, and to avoid ecologically sensitive areas such as reserve forest and wildlife sanctuaries.

5.2.2.1 Physical Resources A. Impact on Topography During construction, the topography will change due to excavation and erection of towers’ and fill cuts for leveling the tower erection sites and construction powerhouse, fore bay, desilting chamber, and penstock. A minor change of surface features will occur because of tree removal at the tower erection site and along the RoW to facilitate construction. The most prominent impact on the surface topography will be in the hilly region along the reserve forest for both transmission lines and the SHPs. The impact will be local but irreversible due to the presence of the transmission line, substations, and SHPs.

B. Impact on Air Quality During construction, activities will involve excavation for tower erection and power channel construction for the SHPs, movement of vehicles carrying the construction material, etc. All will result in the emission of dust particles thereby affecting air quality marginally at site; this will be transitory. Spraying of water during excavation will reduce the dust emission to a great extent. Overall the major impacts regarding Ambient Quality are limit to the construction period and can be mitigated to an acceptable level by implementing recommended measures and using the best engineering and environmental practices. The expected ambient air quality is presented n table 5.2 Table 5.2 Ambient status Impact wise mg/m3 Residential Industrial

Pollution level SPM SO2 & NOx SPM SO2 & NOx Low (Negligible impact) 0-70 0-30 0-180 0-40 Moderate (Significant impact) 70-140 30-60 180-360 40-80 High (Advance impact) 140-210 60-90 360-540 80-120 Critical < 210 < 90 > 540 > 120

Note : Impact are manageable and can be managed existing with cost effectively with strong will power of management.

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C. Impact on Noise During construction the major sources of noise pollution will be movement of vehicles for transporting construction material and equipment to the site. Since most of the access roads are not motorable, nonmotorized goods will transfer the equipment, i.e. mainly using mules along a mule road. Rope ways are the best suited with the landscape of the area to carry instruments/materials, the major construction work is expected to be carried out during the day time. Noise produced will not have a significant impact on existing ambient noise levels. As noted, the predominant land use along the most part of alignment is reserve forest and agricultural. Faunal population in the reserve forest will be disturbed marginally due to the construction noise and they may move to nearby forest areas. Use of low-noise-generating equipment and restriction of construction activity for limited periods will minimize disturbance to the forest fauna. The expected noise level of construction equipment is presented in table 5.3

Table 5.3 Expected Noise Emissions Sl. No. Machine Noise level dB(a) 1. Compactor 80-85 2. DG set 80-110 3. Dozer 80-85 4. Drilling Machine 120-130 5. Dump Truck 80-90 6. Face shovel 80-90 7. Granting Machine 100-120 8. Motor Scraper 85-95 9. Pumps 80-100

D. Impact on Surface Water Quality Construction will not have any major impact on surface and groundwater quality in the area. Contamination of water bodies may result due to spilling of construction materials and surface runoff from the construction site. Contamination of water levels may increase where the alignment crosses waterways and if the surface runoff during construction enters the river. Even during construction of the trench weir, turbidity, total suspended solids, and some other parameters are likely to be increase. This can be avoided by careful selection and work style of sites and access roads so that surface runoff does not enter the river.

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Care should be taken to locate the temporary construction worker colony away from water bodies. Adequate drinking water facilities, sanitary facilities, and drainage in temporary colonies should be provided to avoid polluting surface water. Provision of adequate washing and toilet facilities with septic tanks and appropriate refuse collection and disposal system should be obligatory. Sedimentation pits should be provided at the substation site during construction. Oil- confining pit or oil separation system should be provided at the substation area to avoid surface water pollution. Oil traps should be provided for separating oily waste. The sludge generated at the trap should be kept in a specified place inside the premise of substations and sold to authorized contractors/third parties. No sludge disposal on land will be allowed. Water quality standards for fresh water classification and effluent discharge standards for inland surface is presented in table 5.4 and 5.5.

Table 5.4 Water quality standards for fresh water classification S. No. Characteristic Designated Use Class of Indian waters A B C D E 1. pH Value 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 2. Dissolved Oxygen, mg/l, min 6 5 4 4 - 3. Biochemical Oxygen Demand (5 days at 200C), 2 3 3 - - mg/l 4. Total Coliform Organisms, MPN/100 ml max. 50 500 5,000 - - 5. Color Hazen Units 10 300 300 - - 6. Chlorides (as Cl), mg/l, max. 250 - 600 - 600 7. Sodium Adsorption Ratio max - - - - 26 8. Boron (as B), mg/l max - - - - 2 9. Sulphates (as SO4), max. 400 - 400 - 1000 10. Nitrates (as NO), mg/l max. 20 - 50 - - 11. Free ammonia (as NH3), mg/l - - - 1.2 - 12. Conductivity at 250 C hm/cm max 1000 2250 13. Arsenic (as As), max. micro 0.05 0.2 0.2 - - 14. Iron (as Fe), mg/l 0.3 - 50 - - 15. Fluorides (as F), mg/l 1.5 1.5 1.5 - - 16. Lead (as Pb), mg/l 0.1 - 0.1 - - 17. Copper (as Cu), mg/l 1.5 - 1.5 - - 18. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l 1.5 - 1.5 - - 19. Manganese (as Mn) 0.5 - - - - 20. Total Dissolved Solids, Mg/l 500 - 1,500 - 2100 21. Total Hardness (CaCO3), mg/l 300 - - - - 22. Magnesium (as Mg), mg/l 100 - - - - 23. Cyanides (as CN), mg/l 0.05 0.05 - - -

A = Drinking water source without conventional treatment but after disinfections. B = Outdoor bathing (organized). C = Drinking water source with conventional treatment followed by disinfections. D = Propagation of wildlife and fisheries. E = irrigation, industrial cooling, controlled waste disposal. Source : Bureau of Indian Standards

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Table 5.5 Effluent Discharge stands (Inland Surface Water)

S. No. Parameter Units Standards 1. Color and Odor All efforts should be made to remove color and unpleasant odor as far as practicable. 2. Suspended Solids, Max. Mg/l 100 3. Particulate Size of Suspended Solids Shall pass 850 micron IS Sieve 4. pH Value 0C 5.5 to 9.0 5. Temperature, Max. Mg/l Shall not exceed 50C above the receiving water temperature 6. Oil and Grease, Max. Mg/l 10 7. Total Residue Chlorine, Max Mg/l 1.0 8. Ammonical Nitrogen (as N), Max Mg/l 50 9. Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (as N), Max. Mg/l 100 10. Free Ammonia as (NH3), Max. Mg/l 5.0 11. Biochemical Oxygen Demand (5 days at 20 Mg/l 30 0C), Max. 12. Chemical Oxygen Demand, Max. Mg/l 250 13. Arsenic (as As), Max. Mg/l 0.2 14. Mercury (as Hg), Max. Mg/l 0.01 15. Lead (as Pb), Max. Mg/l 0.1 16. Cadmium (as Cd), Max. Mg/l 2.0 17. Hexavalent Chromium (as Cr+6), Max. Mg/l 0.1 18. Total Chromium (as Cr), Max. Mg/l 2.0 19. Copper (as Cu), Max. Mg/l 3.0 20. Zinc (as Zn), Max. Mg/l 5.0 21. Selenium (as Se), Max. Mg/l 0.05 22. Nickel (as Ni), Max. Mg/l 3.0 23. Cyanide (as CN), Max. Mg/l 0.2 24. Fluoride (As F), Max. Mg/l 2.0 25. Dissolved Phosphates (as P), Max. Mg/l 5.0 26. Sulphides (as S), Max. Mg/l 2.0 27. Phenolic compounds (as C6H5OH), Max. Mg/l 1.0 28. Radioactive Materials (a) Alpha emitters, ml, Max. Micro curie/ml 10-7 (b) Beta emitters, ml, Max. Micro curie/ml 10-6 29. Bioassay test 90% survival of fish after 96 hours in 100% effluent 30. Manganese (as Mn) Mg/l 2.0 31. Iron (as Fe) Mg/l 3.0 32. Vanadium (as V) Mg/l 0.2 33. Nitrate Nitrogen Mg/l 10.0

E. Impact on Soil and Geology Excavation activities and land clearance may result in soil erosion at the construction site and along access routes. Erosion-prone areas will be avoided when siting the towers. Leveling and stabilization of tower construction sties will be done after completion of construction. Construction chemical, if any, must be handled properly to avoid any soil contamination.

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5.2.2.1.2 Ecological Resources A. Impact on Terrestrial Ecology The initial construction work along the alignment involves land clearance, cutting, filling, and leveling; and may cause loss of vegetation. This will be an irreversible impact. Care should be taken to avoid vegetation; power house, office building and colony towers should be located where the vegetation is thin. This will greatly minimize tree loss and compensation to be paid to tree owners. Compensatory afforestation has to be done in association with the state Department of Forests. Trimming of trees should be done in consultation with the Department of Forests.

The removal of herbaceous vegetation and lossening of the top soil generally causes soil erosion. However, such impacts will be primarily confined to the project site during initial periods of construction and need to be minimized by adopting mitigative measures like paving, surface treatment, and water sprinkling.

B. Terrestrial Fauna. During construction, the fauna in the reserved forests may be disturbed due to various construction activities. Care will be taken to not disturb the major wildlife habitat. No significant commercial fisheries will be affected by water quality impacts from construction.

5.2.2.1.3 Human Environment A. Agriculture Some permanent and temporary losses of agricultural land will occur due to locating towers in agricultural fields, loss of crops along the access route, etc. Land will be acquired for construction of new substations and the SHP. As far as possible, prime agricultural land will be avoided for transmission lines, and construction will occur after crop harvesting. Adequate compensation will be given to the affected land holders.

B. Socioeconomic During construction, job opportunities will be available for the local population.

C. Resettlement Issue related to resettlement and rehabilitation will be short out as per Govt. ruels and regulation.

D. Cultural Sits No archaeological, historical, or culturally important sites are located near the proposed power house site or diversion site and RoW of the alignment for transmission lines and or near substations or powerhouses.

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E. Traffic and transport Study area is falling in remote area so high density is not available but special attention and precaution will be taken during the construction phase, traffic disturbance needs to be minimized by avoiding high density areas, using proper traffic signs, ensuring proper access roads, and avoiding roads blockage.

5.2.3 Operation This phase will contribute its activity after the hydropower unit starts operation. The primary impacts, if any, will be on air, water, noise, soil and due to discharge of domestic effluent, waste disposal and vehicular movement.

The Proposed Hydro Power itself is sufficient to improve the local infrastructure i.e. Road, drinking water, Power etc. The proposed Hydro Power will generate a lot of opportunity for the local people so as to improve their socio economic status.

5.2.3.1 Environmental Impact of Operation Activities 5.2.3.1.1 Physical Resources A. Impact on Topography No topographical changes are envisaged during the operation phase; existing access routes will be utilized during operation and maintenance.

B. Impact on Climate The proposed project is small project so the construction of power house transmission lines, substations, and colony will involve some tree removal which would not cause any significant impact on climate of the area.

C. Impact on Hydrology The headwork for SHP consists of a trench weir for diversion of water to the powerhouse. The operation will not have significant impact. The Project will not have any impact on the water table. Some erosion will take place mainly on the terraces and soil-covered slopes. The terraces are glacio-fluvial in origin and soil is eroded through run-off-water. Also along the steep slopes and escarpment, gravity fall of fragmented rock boulders are common.

D. Imbalances Tectonically, the project area has undergone three to four phases of deformation. It is located north of the main central thrust, a well-defined tectonic lineament.

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However, the entire project area is located in unstable area. In the stretch of power channel, leakages may cause saturation of debris material, which may result in slope failure and may cause land sliding. However, significant damage will be caused by project implementation. So, proper attention will be required.

E. Sediments The project area is characterized by steeps slopes covered with soil and thick vegetation. Small nalas are the main source of erosion in the area, as runoff water causes flow of soil and small rock masses from the slopes. Sedimentation is practically insignificant as the stream has sufficient capacity to carry these sediments leading to erosion. During the rainy season, large blocks, boulders, etc. carried from the upper zones often get dumped in the river bed at lower reaches due to changes in gradient or broadening of the river bed.

F. Impact on Air Quality The project does not generate any air emissions during operation, and will generate a net environmental benefit by offsetting air emissions from thermal power generation.

G. Impact on Noise During project operation, noise from the substation and power house operation, and corona noise from the conductors will be felt only up to 15-30m. The noise generated will not be intense and no major settlements are within 30 m from the proposed sites. Substation area should be surrounded by walls with a minor sound insulation effect; total noise control will be quite expensive. The other alternative is proper maintenance of the equipment/machines inside the substations so that the ambient noise level meets the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standard for residential area i.e. 55 audible decibels dB(A) during daytime and 45 dB(A) during nighttime at the boundary of substations. Hence the impact will not be significant.

H Impact on Surface Water Quality The operation of the proposed transmission line and SHP will not have any major impact on the surface and groundwater quality. Transformers free of polychlorinated biphenyl will be used for the substations.

I Impact on Groundwater Quality Ground pollution can occur if chemical substances and oily waste percolate to the water table. Avoiding spilling at the tower construction site and powerhouse will minimize the chances of

79 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL leaching construction chemicals to the groundwater. Adequate treatment facilities at substation areas should be provided to avoid groundwater pollution.

J Impact on Soil and Geology No impact on soil is expected during the operational phase. Geological impact are related to damage due to seismic conditions. The area under the Project primarily falls in zone V a high damage risk zone. Foundation design of the towers and powerhouses considers the probability of earthquake at the design stage itself.

5.2.3.1.2 Ecological Resources A. Impact on Terrestrial Ecology During the operational phase, clearing of vegetation and trimming of trees along the alignment corridor will be done for maintenance purposes. This will reduce the chance of fires due to electric sparks. The project is under rehabilitation so minimum construction work will be required approximately 0.334 hectares of new forest land & Nap land will be required and no trees will need to be removal. This will acquire regulatory approval (forest clearance) from MoEF. Since the proposed sites for most of the project works are in forest-designated land, forest clearance will be required from the state government. The Department of Forests will receive compensation for the RoW from concern agency and for compensatory forestry from UJVNL; this will be reported to the state ministry responsible for environment and forests.

B. Terrestrial Fauna During the operation phase, birds may hit the transmission lines. Deflectors will be added to minimize this risk.

C. Impact on Aquatic Ecology The proposed transmission line will pass over rivers at several places. No significant impacts on aquatic ecology are envisaged as tower sites near the river. Sites will be carefully selected and designed to prevent excess run-off or erosion into the river. Some disturbance will occur during construction of diversion site/trench weir which occur significant impacts on aquatic fauna, As such no commercial fisheries are operating in the project area.

5.2.3.1.3 Human Environment A. Health and Safety Health and safety impacts, such as accidents due to electro-cutting, fires and explosions, and exposure to electromagnetic fields along the alignment and at the substation, may occur. House

80 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL will not be allowed within the project area and RoW. A safety and emergency procedures manual will be developed and kept at the substations. Necessary training regarding safety aspects to the personnel, working at the substation and line inspectors will be provided. Personal protective equipment like safety gloves, helmet, and noise protection will be provided during construction and during maintenance work. Priority will be given to maintaining hygienic conditions and good aesthetics at the substations and power house. Efforts should be made to run medical dispensary and run under a qualified doctor at site.

B. Socioeconomic Rural and urban electrification is expected to have beneficial impacts on socioeconomic conditions. Anticipated light industrial development will trigger economic growth.

C. Solid Waste Generation Solids waste may be generated, such as metal scraps, wooden packing material, and oily waste. Oily waste and scrap will be collected and disposed of in compliance with the Environmental Protection Act, 1986, and applicable regulations and rules.

5.2.4 Secondary Activities The setting up of an SHP will increase urbanization, (though to a small extent only), increased transport and associated development. This may have a beneficial impact on the socio economic structure and infrastructure. It may also have certain adverse impacts.

5.3 Screening of Impact The matrix identifies the possible impacts due to various activities of the project on different environmental attributes. Some of these impacts are insignificant and does not warrant further analysis. Thus our objective is now to identify those impacts, which are significant and require further detailed analysis to the extent necessary for decision making purposes.

The major construction activities like excavation, construction, erection of equipment, drainage, laying of water pipelines etc. will all take place over a short time frame. Thus their impacts may be considered to be temporary. The operation of a hydropower unit and their secondary activities may have negligible impacts and will considered for detailed examination.

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5.4 Findings From the Matrix (attach at the end of report as figure 5.1) it is deduced that the air quality, noise level and vibration, surface water quality, flora and fauna, soil quality and cultural resources are likely to be marginally negatively affected but it will be diluted by nearby forest and plantation of different forest area. A special care and mitigative measures will be taken to minimize their negative impacts which will be done near by project area or near by proposed colony site. However, it is heartening to note that the overall impact of hydel project is positive, as is evident from the Impact Assessment Matrix. The parameters which will be positively affected are aesthetics, land and property value, land use pattern, employment quality of life, basic amenities, trade and commerce, economy and income level.

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CHAPTER - 6 6.0 Economic Assessment

The Sobla hydroelectric project envisages construction of a 15 mt. high trench weir above the deepest foundation level with location near village sobla on river Sobla Gad. The power house is located just before of the confluence of Dhauliganga with river inside the right bank hill. The major works of the project include intakes, an underground desilting basin, a 51 mt. long, penstocks and tail race works. The salient features of the project are given in the report. The power house will have an installed capacity of 8.0 MW. The Project estimated cost as per DPR prepared in 2009 is Rs. 3542.00 lacs. The abstract of cost estimate Sobla SHP of project is presented in table 6.1.

Table 6.1 - Cost Estimate (Reconstruction of Sobla SHP)

S. No. AMOUNT (Rs Lacs) ITEM CIVIL E/M TOTAL (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) I Works 1. A-Preliminary 50.00 2. B-Land (CAT+R&R) 80.00 3. C-Works 3.1 Repair of Head Works 71.35 71.35 3.2 Construction of Desilting tank 88.49 88.49 3.3 Repair of D-tank and Protection Work 26.26 26.26 3.4 Repair of Damaged Power Channel 58.96 58.96 3.5 Repair of Fore-bay tank 1.67 1.67 3.6 Construction of Penstock, Thrust, Anchor and Saddle 238.68 238.68 3.7 Power house building & Land Development Work 252.00 252.00 3.8 Construction of Switchyard 20.51 20.51 3.9 Protection of Power House & Penstock 25.26 25.26 3.10 Water Supply Line(Lump Sum) 2.50 2.50 3.11 Construction of TRC 51.13 51.13 Total C-Works 811.55 836.81 4. K-Building (Colony Protection + Colony Repair + Old Storage Repair) 22.26 22.26 5. M-Plantation 10.00 6. O-Miscellaneous @ 4% of Civil/E&M works 106.94

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7. P-Maintenance @ 1% of items I-works Less item 1,2 & 11 27.18 8. Q-Special tools & plants 25.00 9. R-Communication 27.63 10. S-Power Plant & Accessories 1862.00 1862.00 11. Y-Losses on stock @ 0.25% on item 3 to 7 & 9 to 10 2.40 Total : I – works 833.81 1862.00 3050.22 II ESTABLISHMENT 1. @ 10% of I-Works 81.16 81.16 2. @ 8% of E/M Works 148.96 148.96 III ORDINARY TOOLS & PLANTS 1. @ 1% of I-Works 30.50 IV RECEIPT & RECOVERIES 1. At the rate of 0.75% of Q-spl. T&P 0.19 Total of Direct Charges V INDIRECT CHARGES 1. Audit & Account @ 1% of I-Works 30.50 VI TRANSMISSION SYSTEM 1. 33 KV Line 200.00 GRAND TOTAL 3541.53 Say 3542.00 (Rs.Three Thousand Five Hundred Forty Two. Lacs Only)

The above cost does not include the cost of transmission. The estimate for civil & Hydro mechanical works have been prepared based on the average rates for major items of works made available by CWC and CEA has been followed.

6.1 Proposed EMP, CAT and DMP Estimate The different activities required to carried out for EMP, CAT and DMP implementation are presented in table 6.2, 6.3 and 6.4. The estimated provision of fund will be allocated in project cost for implementation of EMP, CAT and DMP.

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Table 6.2 – Cost estimate for the implementation of EMP Sl. Particulars Amount No. (Rs. In lacs) 1. Provision of sewage treatment 2.00 2. Oil Sepration System 1.00 3. Drainage system 1.00 4. Solid Waste Sepration system 0.20 5. Solid waste Disposal System (Safe & Scientific manner) 0.50 6. Restoration and landscaping of construction sites 10.00 7. Green belt development 2.50 8. Compensatory afforestation 1.00 9. Socio economic development work 10.00 Total 28.20 Running Operation & Maintenance (Yearly) 1. Muck management plan 2.50 2. Treatment and operation cost of STP 0.50 3. Maintenance cost of STP 0.20 4. House keeping cost 1.00 5. Proper Disposal of solid waste 0.50 6. Green belt maintenance 0.50 7. Social : Electricity, Water, Dispensary, School, Woman welfare etc. 2.50 Total 7.70

Table 6.3 – Cost estimates for Catchment Area treatment Work

Sl. Item Amount No. (Rs. In lacs) 1. CAT office establishment and maintenance 1.00 2. Development and maintenance of nursery 0.25 3. Plantation in degraded forest land & maintenance for 5 years 2.00 4. Barbed wire fencing for protection 1.00 5. Road side plantation 0.20 6. Maintenance of roadside plantation 0.50 8. Providing wire crate 2.00 9. Stream bank protection 1.00 10. Stone masonry check dam - 11. Vegetative check dam - 12. Maintenance of protection works up to fifth year. 5.00 Total 12.95

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Table 6.4 – Cost estimates for the implementation of DMP

Sl. No. Particulars Amount (Rs. In lacs) 1. Installation of alert systems, Setting up of Control Room 2.00 2. Setting up of Communication System 2.00 3. Setting up of Emergency Response Organization 1.00 4. Public Information System 1.00 5. Training & miscellaneous 2.00 6. Annual Budgetary provision for implementation of DMP 2.00 Total 10.00

Note : EMP and DMP implementation cost may vary depending on the market value prevailing at that very time.

Since the area is prone to natural disaster, suitable provision in the design of the diversion, desilting and power house structures should be made to withstand the fury of flood. Adequate provision in the shape of flood protection works should be provided to protect the power station building, the desilting tank and other structures lying close to the river bank. The staff of the power plant should be trained in disaster management related activities.

VHF communication system shall be provided in the power station for notifying the state disaster management agency of the disaster.

The cost on the above measures including table 6.2, 6.3 and 6.4 are included in the project cost.

6.2 Impact of Hydel Project

Any project is likely to have some beneficial or harmful impacts, which may be either beneficial or adverse. The likely impact of the proposed hydel project have been worked out on the basis of the data collected pertaining to socio-economic aspects i.e. base line survey, which has been discussed in the previous chapter.

6.2.1 Impact on Agricultural Scenario The proposed project is expected to generate more employment for the local people, which in turn, will generate more income to the people. At the same time, the development of the local area in terms of an enlarged market economy may provide the local farmers with proper outlet for their agricultural products to enjoy the price incentive, which is likely to be strong enough to offset the expected local inflation through real-balance effect. Therefore, the impact of the project on the existing agricultural situation is more likely to be positive. 86 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

6.2.2 Impacts on Consumption Behaviour

There is a strong multiplier effect of the project. As it is expected, the proposed hydel project is going to inject huge amount of money in the area and consequently, the aforesaid multiplier effect may lead to an overall increase in average income of the inhabitants and consumption for the people of i.e. study area. Therefore, it can be ascertained that the impact of the project on the consumption behaviour is likely to be positive.

6.2.3 Impact on Employment and Income

Presently hill area is suffering from migration of people. Peoples migrated for a better job opportunity and good life style. The majority of the respondents have still agriculture their main occupation (about 74%). It is observed that about 26% of them have secondary source of income-like service, self-employment, business etc. discussions with the respondents revealed that a part of the income from secondary sources earned by them is usually ploughed back in for development of agriculture so that they can produce more and thereby meet their own food requirements and supplement their income by selling agricultural produce in the local market. Given this existing situation, the new investment in the proposed hydel project will have multidirectional impact on direct and indirect employment pattern and enhance income of the people in the study area.

Increase of employment opportunities has been an important objective in the state. The present project has an employment generation plan and the possible impact of this plan makes it clear that a large part of the employment will trickle down to the local people which in turn, will generate income. An attempt is also made here, to estimate the direct employment and income effect of the project during construction and operation period is presented in table 6.5 and 6.6. In estimating the share of local People in direct employment of various categories, some relevant assumptions are made.

Table 6.5 - Direct Employment and Income Generation during construction period (approx.) Sl. Category No. Rate Wage bill No. (Rs lacs/yr) (Rs lacs/yr) 1. Executive 10 3 30.0 2. Skilled 25 1.20 30.0 3. Semi skilIed/ 25 1.0 25.0 unskilled 50 0.97 48.50 4. Non technical 50 0.97 48.50 5. Contractors workers*. 100 0.97 97.00 Total 260 279.00

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Table 6.6 - Direct Employment and Income Generation during operation period (approx.) Sl. Category No. Rate Wage bill No. (Rs lacs/yr) (Rs lacs/yr) 1. Executive 03 3.6 10.80 2. Jr. Engineer 03 2.16 6.48 3. SkilIed 04 1.44 5.76 4. Technical 04 0.97 3.88 5. Non technical 08 0.97 7.76 6. Contractors workers*. Total 22 34.68

*It may be noted that ‘contractors’ workers will be employed only when required. Overall assessment of the project on employment and income effects indicates that it has positive impact on employment and income.

Note : Prediction of income is quite difficult due to incomplete information it may be increased. An attempt is made here according to relevant information by economist.

6.2.4 Perception of Local People

In this context, the selected villagers/households of Dharchula blocks of project area were asked about their perception in relation to environment due to hydel projects. The analysed data revealed that 72 percent households perceived pollution of environment as a potential source of health problems but they did agree that the hydel project is not create any nuisance or environmental Problem. However, these households are mainly educated/literate. Further only 11 percent reported that they are aware of environment, but are not aware of the implications of adverse effects of polluted environment, However, 17 percent do not know, what is environment and showed their altogether ignorance of the environment. These households are illiterate and below poverty line.

6.2.5 Conclusion

The analysis of various aspects of the present study amply revealed that the present project is going to create positive impact on the socio-economic conditions of the people in the study area. On the basis of the present study the following significant conclusions could be drawn:

(i) The project is not going to cause any damage to the present traditional agriculture prevailing in that area but rather will give an impetus to farming. Moreover, it may indirectly help the’ agriculture to improve by way of generating additional income from subsidiary sources expected to be generated by the project.

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(ii) The project will have positive impact on consumption behaviour of the people of the study area by way of improvement in average consumption, of superior quality products of the people through multiplier effect. (iii) The project will have strong positive employment and income effects, which may facilitate socio-economic development of the study area. (iv) The project will be an incentive and speed up the growing view on importance of education among the people of the study area. (v) Peoples’ perception regarding the project is found to be neither optimistic’ nor pessimistic. (vi) The project is likely to bring about positive changes in the life style and quality of life of the people located in that area. Overall outcome of this impact assessment gets reflected through the major inter-relationships and inter-dependence among various aspects of the study. The Proposed hydel project will generate income in exchange of skilled and unskilled labour along with future job opportunities.

Market plays the catalytic role in the process of economic development of this area with its influences on the overall life style of the local people. Development of social infrastructure and commercial activities in and around the proposed hydel project is expected to have strong positive impact on the socio economy of the area. Moreover, since the proposed hydel project would be located in an area where there is no scope of development of opportunity chances. Whole hill area is very peaceful an establishment of hydel project may prevent migration of people from hill area and chances of law and order problems are likely to be few.

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CHAPTER – 7

7.0 Environment Management Plan

The Environment Protection Act 1997 (the Act) provides for the protection of the environment and includes a provision in section 38 for the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to enter into an Environmental Protection Agreement and under section 43 for the EPA to require an Environmental Authorisation. To assist with assessing proposed and existing developments and the production of agreements and authorisations Environment Management Plans (EMP) should be developed by all authorised proponents. For all other proponent activities, in which the submission of an EMP is desirable, the structure of the submission should be consistent with these guidelines.

EMPs have the purpose of protecting the environment, and are based around the objectives of the Act. This includes requiring persons engaging in polluting activities to prevent environmental degradation and adverse risks to human and ecosystem health, make progressive environmental improvements, achieve effective integration of environmental, economic and and social considerations in the decision making process, promote shared responsibility for the environment, and promote the principles of ecologically sustainable development.

The primary purpose of the EMP is to provide information to the EPA on a proposed/existing development within the local and regional framework, with the aim of emphasising how the proposed/existing development may impact on the relevant environmental factors and how those impacts may be mitigated and managed so as to be environmentally acceptable. An EMP requires the proponent to:  Describe the proposed/existing development;  Describe the receiving environment;  Outline the potential impacts of the proposed/existing development on factors of the environment;  Identify the proposed management strategies to ensure those environmental factors are appropriately protected; and  Demonstrate that the proposed/existing development should be judged by the EPA to be environmentally acceptable.

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7.1 Objectives of the Environment Management Plan

The objectives of the EMP are:  Place the proposed/existing development in the context of the local and regional environment;  Adequately describe all components of the proposed/existing development, so that the EPA can consider approval of a well-defined project;  Provide the basis of the proponent’s environment management program, which shows that the environmental impacts resulting from the proposed/existing development, including cumulative impact, can be acceptably managed; and  Provide a document that clearly sets out the reasons why the proposed/existing development should be judged by the EPA to be environmentally acceptable.

7.2 Anticipated Impacts and Management Plan

Magnitude of anticipated impacts and their potential impacts on four categories of physical environment, environmental pollution, ecological resources and human environment is presented in table 7.1.

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Table 7.1 - Magnitude of anticipated impacts and proposed Management Plan

Sl. Environmental Potential Impacts Project Magnitude Management Plan No. Attribute Phase of Impacts A. Physical Resources 1. Topography Change in the surface Operation Low Plantation surrounding the features and present phase substation and powerhouse area to aesthetics due to the improve aesthetics. No other construction at mitigation required. different project sites. 2. Climate Impacts on the Construction Low Compensatory afforestation. climatic conditions, and marginal removal of Operation trees along alignment and SHPs to be done. 3. Hydrology Operation of head Operation Low Construction of trench type weir. works. Ground water Table Operation Low Dewatered river bed Operation Low During lean period flow would be (during lean period) optimum. 20% of flow will be due to stream discharge in main stream. diversion. Change in flow Operation Low During lean period flow would be regime (during lean optimum. 20% of flow will be period) due to stream discharge in main stream. diversion. Flow disruption Operation Low Since rivers are natural (during lean period) forest/Glacier fed, even during lean due to ponding at period flow would be optimum. diversion. Change in land use Operation Low Land to be submerged negligible by submergence of sediment utilized for plantation land due to ponding purposes. at diversion. Sedimentation. Operation Low Sediment will be restored and utilized to improved aesthetic value of area River morphology. Operation Low Large blocks boulders get dumped in river bed due to change of gradient Pests and weeds. Low Water leakage may Operation Proper care should be taken during cause land sliding. construction of channel

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B. Environmental Resources 1 Air Quality Project will have Construction Low Sprinkling of water at construction marginal impact on site, limited bare soils, maintenance air quality during the of project vehicles, etc construction period due to dust emission. 2 Noise Noise due to general Construction Low Restriction of noise-generating construction and activities at night and use of corona noise from personal protective equipment like conductors. ear plugs, mufflers, etc. Plantation in surrounding of Power house and sub station also minimize noise. Noise arising from Operation Low Transformer location away from substation operation the human settlement. and corona noise Monitoring of possible corona from conductors. noise to identify and correct problems. Proper maintenance of equipment/machineries so that ambient noise standards will be achieved. Plantation will also help to minimize Noise. Change of water During Low to New diverted water course will be course may increase operation medium constructed through hard rock TDS which affect period available at site. Leakage of water D.O. level will be probhited in each state. 3 Surface and Runoff from the Before Low Careful siting of power house, sub Ground Water construction site construction station towers and access roads. quality leading to increase in activity Sedimentation ponds at the COD, BOD, oil & substations. grease, etc. Domestic wastewater During Low Domestic waste water treatment by from construction construction providing septic tank. If volume of sites and during and domestic effluent will be high a substation/SHP operation small treatment facilities be setup. operation leading to increase in COD, BOD, oil & grease, etc. Oil spillage During Low Containment structures, oil water construction separation, adopting good practices and for oil handling and maintenance operation works for substation. Oil contamination During Medium Oil traps installation for separation during maintenance operation of oil from water for substation or any location.

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4 Soils and Soil erosion may be During and Low Avoiding of sites which are prone Geology occur due to after the to soil erosion and land slide. construction work or construction Leveling of other sites and tower tower erecting and activity. construction sites in scientific clearing of vegetation manner. Use of few access roads. in the RoW and Rehabilitation and stabilization of access roads. disturbed land. Soil erosion due to During and Low Avoiding of sites that are prone to excavation and after the soil erosion. Leveling of clearing of vegetation construction construction sites and tower in the powerhouse activity. construction sites in scientific and access roads. manner. Use of few access roads. Rehabilitation and stabilization of disturbed land. Improper debris Pre- Medium Proper planning for debris removal removal/accumulatio construction from channel which will be reused n. and in repair of existing structures, construction. powerhouse, substations and for site reclamation. Damage due to Construction Medium Safe site selection and proper civil seismic activity. /Operation work (as per norms) with tower phase. foundation as per seismicity prone area. C. Ecological Resources 1. Terrestrial Loss of vegetation. Before the Low Location of towers and Ecology construction powerhouse at barren/waste land or phase thinly vegetated area and waste lands to minimize tree loss. Selection of few access roads. Compensatory afforestation. Minimum corridor width. 2. Terrestrial Disturbance to the No Low Some wildlife species are reported Fauna local fauna during mitigation to be seen in study area. Proper construction. required care should be taken on management and locale level to minimize any adverse impact. Disturbance to the During Low Monitoring of lines during the local fauna during operation operation and deflectors will be operation. phase added if required. 3. Aquatic Disturbance to fish During Low No mitigative impact required. Ecology during construction construction Species Since the river are forest/natural of trench weir. /operation componia fed, even during the lean period, phase may after minimum flow will be maintained, due to flow hence aquatic ecology will have of water low impact.

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D. Human Environment 1. Health and Exposure of Construction Low Alignment route away from the Safety electromagnetic /Operation settlement. No houses will be fields. phase. allowed in the RoW of the alignment, or near power houses and substations. Land slide, Construction High Use of personal protective equipment cloudburst, Fires /Operation during construction and maintenance and other accidents phase work. Preparation and at the implementation of safety and substations/power emergency manual/plan as per rule & house. regulation at power house/substation. Regular inspection of lines for land slide/faults prone area to prevent accidents. According DMP and off site emergency plan work should be done in crisis period. 2. Agriculture Permanent and Construction Low* Avoid prime agriculture land. temporary loss of phase Assessment of land. Assessment of agriculture land due land required and compensation will to tower erection, be given as per rules & regulation (if substation/powerho required). Construction activity will use, and due to be start after crop harvesting and access routes. selection of few access routes. 3. Socio- Beneficial impacts During High Overall economic growth and economic from rural and operational infrastructure development of the opportunities during phase. region. construction/ operation phase 4. Resettlement Resettlement of the Construction Low Avoid high density areas, proper house falling along phase traffic signs at the construction site, the RoW. ensuring proper access roads. 5. Cultural sites No archaeological, - - No mitigation required historical, or cultural important sites are affected by the construction of the project. 6. Traffic and Traffic congestion During Low Avoid high density areas, proper Transportation due to movement of operation traffic signs at the construction site, construction phase. ensuring proper access roads. vehicles 7. Solid Waste Probability of Construction Low The oil sludge should be separately Generation surface and /Operation stored in the containers, used groundwater phase. transformer oil to be collected and contamination. reclaimed. Separated oily waste and scrap will be collected and disposed off in compliance with the Environmental Protection Act, 1986, and applicable regulations and rules. *Already existing setup and line will be used so impact will be occurred minimum.

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Detail potential impacts and proposed mitigation measures (phase wise) of proposed Sobla - I SHP is presented in table 7.2.

Table 7.2 - Proposed Management Plan (Phase Wise)

Project Activity/Stage Potential Impact Proposed Mitigation measure (A)Preconstruction Civil work for power Impact and air, water, 1. Colony already existing hence no adverse affect. house, office, substation noise, soil 2. Proper plantation all around colony. and colony Exposure to safety 3. Drainage with De silting chamber, will be provide all around related risks power house, office, sub station and colony. 4. Solid waste storage bean system will be provided at required location. 5. All buildings designed constructed as per seismic zone provision. 6. Safety system will be provided at required location. Location of Exposure to safety Setback of dwellings to overhead line route designed in transmission towers and related risks accordance with permitted level of power frequency and the transmission line regulation of supervision at sites. alignment and design. Equipment Release of chemicals Not used in substation transformers or other project facilities or specifications and and gases in receptors equipment by concerned agencies. design parameters. (air, water, land) Processes, equipment, and systems will not to use chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), including halon, and their use.

Transmission line Exposure to 33 KV Transmission line will be required for the power design electromagnetic evacuation from this project which does not have interference electromagnetic interference. Additional measures by suitable design to comply with the limits of electromagnetic interference from overhead power lines. SHP/Substation location Exposure to noise Design of plant enclosures to comply with noise regulations. Location of Impact on water Consideration of site location where prime agricultural land not transmission towers and bodies and land available. transmission line Social inequities Carefully site selection to avoid existing settlements, alignment and design agricultural land & forest land. Location of No need to acquire agricultural land. powerhouse, head works. Involuntary resettlement Social inequities Compensation paid for temporary permanent loss of productive or land acquisition. land as per Govt. rules and regulation. Encroachment into Loss of precious Avoid encroachment by careful site and alignment selection. precious ecological ecological Minimise the need by using existing towers and RoW wherever areas. values/impacts on possible. precious species

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Transmission line Deforestation and loss Avoid encroachment by careful site and alignment selection. through forestland. of biodiversity Minimise the need by using existing towers and RoW, wherever possible. Obtain statutory clearances from the Government. Encroachment into Loss of agricultural Use existing tower footing/towers wherever possible. farmland. productivity Avoid sitting new towers on farmland wherever feasible. Farmers compensated for any permanent loss of productive land. Farmers/land owners compensated for significant trees that need to be trimmed/removed along Right-of-Way. Noise related Nuisance to Substations, powerhouse, head works designed to ensure noise neighbouring will not be a nuisance. properties Interference with Flooding hazards/loss Appropriate channel alignment and siting of towers to avoid drainage of agricultural any hazrd. patterns/Irrigation production channels Escape of polluting Environmental Transformers designed with oil spill containment systems, and materials pollution purpose-built oil, lubricant and fuel storage system, complete with spill cleanup equipment. Powerhouses/substations to include drainage and sewage disposal systems to avoid offsite land and water pollution. Equipment submerged Contamination of Powerhouses/substations constructed above the high flood under flood receptors (land, water) level (HFL) by raising the foundation pad. Ground Natural disaster Careful site selection with appropriate civil and sitting of subsidence/landslide frequently observed towers to avoid any hazard. Explosions/fire Hazards to fire Design of Powerhouses/substations to include modern fire control systems/firewalls. Provision of fire fighting equipment to be located close to transformers, power generation equipment. (B) Construction Civil work for power Impact and air, water, 1. Small hut size colony should be developed. house, office, substation noise, soil 2. Proper plantation all around colony. and colony Exposure to safety 3. Drainage with De silting chamber, will be provide all around related risks power house, office, sub station and colony. 4. Solid waste storage bean system will be provided at required location. 5. All buildings designed constructed as per seismic zone provision. 6. Safety system will be provided at required location. Equipment layout and Noise and vibrations Construction techniques and machinery selection seeking to installation minimize ground disturbance.

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Physical construction Disturbed farming Construction activities on cropping land time to avoid activity disturbance of field crops (with in 1 month of harvest wherever possible). Mechanized Noise vibration and Construction maintenance and turning of plant. construction operator safety, efficient operation Noise vibration Proper maintenance and turning of plant. equipment wear and tear Construction of road for Increase in airborne Existing roads and tracks used for construction and accessibility dust particles maintenance access to the site wherever possible. Increased land New access ways restricted to a single carriageway width. requirement for temporary accessibility Temporary blockage of No blockage Temporary placement of fill in drains/canals not permitted. utilities Site clearance Vegetation Marking of vegetation to be removed prior to clearance, and strict control on clearing activities to ensure minimal clearance. Trimming/cutting of Fire hazards Trees allowed growing up to a specified height within the RoW trees within RoW by maintaining adequate clearance between the top of tree and the conductor as per the regulations. Loss of vegetation Trees that can survive pruning to comply should be pruned and deforestation instead of cleared. Felled trees and other cleared or pruned vegetation to be disposed of as authorized by the statutory bodies. Wood/vegetation Loss of vegetation Construction workers prohibited from harvesting wood in the harvesting and deforestation project area during their employment, (apart from locally employed staff continuing current legal activities). Contractor should arrange LPG gas for cooking of food for their workers. Surplus earth work/soil Runoff to cause water Excess fill from tower foundation excavation disposed of next pollution, solid waste to roads or on barren land or personal in agreement with the disposal local community or land owner. Soil excavated from power houses will be disposed as safe & scientific manner by placement on barren land or along backfill trenchweir etc. Substation construction Loss of soil Fill for the substation foundation obtained by creating or improving local water supply ponds or drains, with the agreement of local communities. Substation construction Water pollution Construction activities involving significant ground disturbance (i.e., substation land forming) not undertaken during the monsoon season. Storage of chemicals Contamination of Fuel and other hazardous materials securely stored above high and materials receptors (land, water, flood level with safety measures. air)

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Construction schedules Noise nuisance Construction activities only undertaken during the day and local communities will be informed of the construction schedule. Provision of facilities Contamination of Construction workforce will be provided for certain facilities it for construction receptors (land, water, include proper sanitation, water supply and waste disposal workers air) facilities. Encroachment into Loss of agricultural Use of existing roads wherever possible. agricultural land productivity Ensure existing irrigation facilities are maintained in working condition. Protect/Preserve topsoil and reinstate after construction completed. Repair/reinstate damaged bunds, etc. after construction completed. Social inequities Compensation for temporary loss in agricultural production. Uncontrolled Soil loss, downstream Need for access tracks minimised, use of existing roads. erosion/silt runoff siltation; etc. Limit site clearing to work areas regeneration of vegetation to stabilize works areas on completion (where applicable). Avoidance of excavation in wet seasons. Water courses protected from siltation through use of bunds and sediment ponds. Nuisance to nearby Losses to Contract clauses specifying careful construction practices on properties. neighbouring land every stage. uses/values Maximum existing access ways will be used. Productive land will be reinstated following completion of construction. Social inequities Compensation will be paid for loss of production, if any. Flooding hazards due to Flooding and loss of Avoid natural drainage pattern/facilities being construction soils, contamination disturbed/blocked/diverted by ongoing construction activities. impediments of natural of receptors (land, drainage. water) Equipment submerged Contamination of Equipment stored at secure place above the high flood level under flood receptors (land, water) (HFL). Inadequate siting of Loss of land values Existing sites (if available) will be used, therefore, no need to borrow areas develop new sources of aggregates. Environment, Health Injury and sickness of Arrangement of Environment awareness programme. and safety workers and members Contract provisions specifying minimum requirements for of the public. construction camps. Preparation and implementation of health and safety plan. Arrangement of primary health centre with medicine and instrument with a knowledgeable health staff. Arrangement for health and safety training sessions.

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Inadequate construction Likely to maximize Training to personal of implementing agency for stages monitoring. damages environmental monitoring work. Implementation of effective environmental monitoring and reporting system using checklist of all contractual environmental requirement. Appropriate contact clauses to ensure satisfactory implementation of contractual environmental mitigation measures. (C) Operation and Maintenance Construction of power Impact and air, water, 1. Small hut size colony should be developed. house, office, substation noise, soil 2. Proper plantation all around colony. and colony Exposure to safety 3. Drainage with De silting chamber, will be provide all around related risks power house, office, sub station and colony. 4. Solid waste storage bean system will be provided at required location. 5. All buildings designed constructed as per seismic zone provision. 6. Safety system will be provided at required location. Wood/vegetation Loss of vegetation Staff working at site prohibited from harvesting wood in the harvesting and deforestation project area during their employment, (apart from locally employed staff continuing current legal activities). Contractor should arrange LPG gas for cooking of food for their workers. Location of Exposure to safety Setback of dwellings to overhead line route designed in transmission towers, related risks accordance with permitted level of power frequency and the transmission line regulation of supervision at sites. alignment, and powerhouse. Equipment may Contamination of Equipment will be installed above the high flood level (HFL) submerged under flood receptors (land, water) by raising the foundation pad. Oil spillage Contamination of Substation transformers located bunded areas with a storage land/nearby water capacity of at least 100% of the capacity of oil in transformers bodies and associated reserve tanks. Inadequate provision of Injury and sickness of Careful design using appropriate technologies to minimize staff/workers health and staff/workers hazards. safety during operations Safety awareness raising for staff. Preparation of emergency plan and training given to staff, for their implementation. Adequate sanitation and water supply facilities will be provided. Electric shock Hazards Injury/mortality to Careful design using appropriate technologies to minimise staff and public hazards. Security fences around substations/powerhouse/head works. Barriers to prevent climbing on/dismantling of transmission towers. Appropriate warning sign on facilities. Electric safety awareness rising in project areas. Fire hydrant point and fire extinguisher may be placed at appropriate places. Operation and Unnecessary Adequate training in O&M to all relevant staff of substations maintenance staff skills environmental losses and transmission line maintenance crews.

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less than acceptable of various types Preparation and training in the use of O&M manuals and standard operating practices. Inadequate periodic Diminished ecological Proper environmental monitoring of project operations and environmental and social values. maintenance activities. monitoring. Equipment periodic Release of chemicals Processes, equipment and systems using cholofluorocarbons environmental and gases in receptors (CFCs), including halon, should not be used in any stage of monitoring (air, water, land) equipment. Transmission line Exposure to Powerhouse design to comply with the limits of maintenance electromagnetic electromagnetic interference within floor area. interference. Noise related Nuisance to Powerhouses/substations sited and designed to ensure noise neighbouring will not be a nuisance. properties.

Sobla - I small hydro project is coming under rehabilitation plan, so reinstallation of power house with other facilities at this location will be preferable from safety point of view which would make the project technically, economically and environmentally feasible. Implementation of EMP with strong CAT and DMP will make the project feasible. Besides the above, some important points on EMP aspect are detailed here in as under.

7.3 Restoration Plan for Quarry Sites

During construction of a hydropower project large quantities of construction materials are required. The quarries need to be properly stabilized after excavation of construction material is completed. The recommended stabilization measures are described in the following paragraphs. The top soil is proposed to be removed before the start of quarrying. The removed top soil will be kept separate and stock piled so that it could be reused subsequently for the rehabilitation of quarry sites after the completion of quarrying activity. The extraction of construction material from quarries results in formation of depressions, which are proposed to be filled up by the dumping waste material generated during quarrying. The dumped material shall act as initial ecological pioneers site that would initiate the process of succession and colonization in future course of time. Boulders of moderate sizes would be used to line the boundary of the path. The top soil removed before the start of the project activity would be used for covering the filled up depressions/craters at the quarry sites. Micro organisms naturally present in the top soil would ameliorate the plant growth and natural plant succession.

7.4 Management of Muck Disposal

Muck generated from excavation in any hydel project component is required to be disposed in a planned manner so that it takes a least possible space and will not create any hazardous nuisance to the environment. In the hilly area, dumping is done after creating terraces thus usable terraces

101 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL are developed. The overall idea is to enhance/maintain aesthetic view in the surrounding area of the project in post-construction period and avoid contamination of any land or water resource due to muck disposal.

Suitable retaining walls shall be constructed to develop terraces so as to support the muck on vertical slope and for optimum space utilization. Loose muck would be compacted layer wise. The muck disposal area will be developed in a series of terraces of boulder crate wall and masonry wall to protect the area/muck from flood water during monsoons. In-between the terraces, catch water drain will be provided.

The terraces of the muck disposal area will be ultimately covered with fertile soil and suitable plants will be planted adopting suitable bio-technological measures. The basic aim and objectives of the muck management plan are to:  Protect the areas from soil erosion.  Develop the area for afforestration.  Develop as parks, gardens and play ground etc.  The maximum quantity of muck will be utilize for development of infrastructure of the project  Develop the area in harmony with the landscape of the project area.

As only part excavation will be required for penstock laying & Power house construction, a very small amount of muck would be generated. This muck will be used in construction of the above structures & repair of other existing civil structures for the project. Amount earmarked for this purpose is presented in chapter 6. Various activities proposed as a part of the management plan are given as below:  Land acquisition for muck dumping sites.  Civil works (construction of retaining walls, boulder crate walls etc.)  Dumping of muck.  Levelling of the area, terracing and implementation of various engineering control measures e.g., boulder, crate wall, masonry wall, catch water drain.  Spreading of soil.  Application of fertilizers to facilitate vegetation growth over disposal sites. For stabilization of muck dumping sites following measures of biological and engineering measures will be taken.

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7.4.1 Biological Measures  Plantation of suitable tree species and soil binding species.  Plantation of ornamental plants.  Barbed wire fencing.

7.4.2 Engineering Measures  Wire crate wall  Boulder crate wall  R.C.C  Catch water Drain

7.5 Restoration and Landscaping of Project sites

The construction of the project structures, e.g., power house, approach roads, labour camps, etc. would disturb the existing topography and physiography only to a little extent as the main component of the project as Trench weir, Desilting tank, Water conductor system, Forebay tank, & most of the penstock is existing at site & need petty repair. Penstock shall have to be laid in some length but this will not affect existing topography & physiography. Although, no major alteration of the area is expected as the layout has been so conceived that no major impacts on this account are anticipated. It is proposed to landscape the area, so that it integrates with the natural surroundings and the beauty of the area. Accordingly, it is proposed to develop small gardens at power house site and nearby area. The landscaping plan is detailed on following headings.

7.5.1 Garden Complex A garden with local ornamentation plants/orchids and trees should be created at required locations. All plants will be properly labelled with scientific and/or common names.

7.5.2 Creation of viewpoints Viewpoints will be created one near the powerhouse and other at suitable place. These view points will be slab type extension above the ground, which will be properly reinforced and fenced to avoid any undesirable incidence. It will be given a shed and plantation of ornamental plants will be done near it.

7.5.3 Landscaping Various sites in the area will be stabilized by constructing a series of benches. The walls that will be constructed for containing the slope will be embedded with local stone to integrate with the 103 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL aesthetics of the area. Provision of fund earmarked for restoration and landscaping of project sites is mention in chapter 6. 7.6 Greenbelt Development

The forest loss due to various project appurtenances has been compensated as a part of compensatory afforestation. However in addition to these, it is proposed to develop greenbelt around the periphery of various project appurtenances. The general consideration will be taken while developing the greenbelt are:  Local trees growing with perennial foliage should be planted around various appurtenances of the proposed project.  Plantation of trees should be undertaken in appropriate encircling rows around the project site.  Fast growing trees should be planted. A green belt around the reservoir will be created which will not only improve the aesthetics and vegetal cover, but would also prevent land slides along the reservoir periphery. The creation of green belt on either side of the reservoir will ensure protection of the reservoir area from any minor slips due to fluctuation in the water level. The slopes on both the banks will be planted with suitable tree species for creation of a green belt around the reservoir rim. In areas with moderately steep slopes indigenous, economically important, soil binding tree species will be planted, which are able to thrive well under high humidity and flood conditions. The following measures are recommended: (i) The green belt will develop on both the banks, up to the tail of the reservoir wherever moderately steep slopes are available for plantation. (ii) The average width of the green belt will vary with the topography. A minimum of 2 layers of plantation will be developed. (iii)Water loving species, preferably Salix alba, S. acmophylla, Populus alba and P. ciliata will be planted in the row nearest to the reservoir rim. The soil present at this level and the air moisture are favourable for the survival and growth of these species. (iv) Species like Aesculus indica, Grevellia robusta, etc. will occupy the middle portions of the green belt. v) The outermost layer of the green belt will be composed of hardy tree species and shrubby mix to withstand any external influences/ pressures of grazing, browsing by cattle and sheep, etc. In this layer the species Grevellia robusta, Ficus spp., and Quercus sp. will be planted in the inner as well as outer rows.

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The plantation and maintenance of the plantation area should also be done by the project proponents in association with the state government. At least more than 33% of total area will be developed under greenbelt development. The species to be planted under greenbelt development programme shall be finalized in consultation with the Forest Department.

7.7 Compensatory Afforestation The loss of vegetal cover can be compensated by compensatory afforestation. The Indian Forest Conservation Act (1980) stipulates: if non-forest land is not available, compensatory forest plantations are to be established on degraded forest lands, which must be twice the forest area affected or lost, and if non-forest land is available, compensatory forest are to be raised over an area equivalent to the forest area affected or lost as per Govt. rate.

7.8 Wildlife Conservation Plan As per available information the project and its surrounding areas have wildlife. Around the main construction areas i.e. the trenchweir site, power house site, etc. where construction workers congregate, some disturbance in the wildlife population may occur. However, in view of the wildlife concentration in the area, the impacts due to various construction activities could be marginal.

7.9 Medical Facilities A population of about 250 is likely to congregate during the construction phase. The labour population will be concentrated at one or two sites. It is recommended that necessary and adequate medical facilities will be developed at the project site. It is recommended that the dispensary should be developed during project construction phase itself and continue it during operation phase also, so that it can serve the labour population/staff and locale people of the area who is traveling a long distance for medical facilities. It also help during any casualty and disaster.

7.9.1 Health Management The increase in water fringe area provides suitable habitats for the growth of vectors of various diseases and they are likely to increase the incidence of water-related diseases. The suggested measures to minimize the incidence of vector-borne diseases are given in following paragraphs:  Site selected for labour camps should not be in the path of natural drainage.  Adequate drainage system to dispose storm water drainage from the labour colonies should be provided.

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 Adequate vaccination and immunization facilities should be provided for workers at the construction site.  The labour camps and resettlement sites should be sufficiently away from a main water body or quarry areas.

7.10 Landslides The proposed project area is located in a landslide prone area for which adequate management measures need to be incorporated. Unscientific land use pattern is the major cause for the present deteriorating situation for which appropriate land use regulation measures need to be implemented. Social and economic upliftment, generating new local resource based small eco- friendly practices on steeper slopes, etc. can be other measures which can be implemented to control landslide hazards. Various measures recommended for control of landslides are given in the following paragraphs. Discouraging new developments in hazardous areas by:

 Disclosing the hazard prone areas.  Adopting utility and public facility service area policies.  Informing and educating the public.  Manning a record of hazard.

Removing or converting existing development through:  Acquiring or exchanging hazardous properties.  Discontinuing non-conforming uses  Reconstructing damaged areas after landslides.  Removing unsafe structures.  Clearing and redeveloping blighted areas before landslides.

Regulating new development in hazardous areas by:  Enacting grading ordinances.  Adopting hill side development regulations.  Amending landuse zoning and regulations creating hazard reduction zones and regulations.  Enacting subdivision ordinances.

Protecting existing development by:  Controlling landslides and slumps.  Controlling mudflows and debris flows. 106 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

 Controlling rock falls.  Operating monitoring, warning and equation system. In addition to above appropriate landslide control measures including various biological and engineering measures shall be implemented. These measures are as below:

7.10.1 Biological Treatment measures  Compensatory Afforestation  Pasture Development  Agro-forestry  Contour farming

7.10.2 Engineering Treatment measures  Wire Crate walls  Gabion structures  Check dams  Contour and Graded Trenching  Step Drains  Stone Masonry.

More prominently, generation of electricity for the development of the region is inevitable. The construction of new motorable roads is not fit for the region. Already existing, roads along the streams are more prone for soil erosion, landslide and mass movement. Ropeways are best suited with the landscape of the basin (if required). Micro-hydropower project will supply electricity for the ropeways. It will definitely lead a way for transportation facilities, on the one hand and will reduce the ecological imbalance in this ecologically fragile mountain terrain, on the other.

In this hilly district water source are not easily accessible hence water for drinking and irrigation is a problem for the local people. Agriculture is mostly rainfed. Hence new source need to be identified and existing sources need to be conserved and augmented.

As such the project is under RMU so any new land acquisition and rehabilitation problem not occur. So any new law and order problem may not be generated. Implementing Agency will incurr the expenditure to implement the environment management plan as mentioned in earlier chapter 6. Environment management work can be executed as per environment management organization chart is presented as figure 7.1 at the end of report.

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7.3 Catchment Area Treatment Plan 7.3.1 Catchment Scenario The total catchment area of river Sobla Gad are 87 sq. km. No vegetation grows in the river bed and stony area. Any kind of treatment is neither possible nor warranted in such area. The small area where a kind of vegetation is available substantially denuded and deforested due to indiscriminate felling, repeated lopping of trees for fodder, uncontrolled excessive grazing and annual burning of forest. Reduction of vegetative cover in the recent times has worsened the ecosystem of all river valleys.

The catchment area treatment (CAT) plan pertains to preparation of a management plan for treatment of erosion prone area of the catchment through biological and engineering measures; however, a comprehensive CAT plan should also include the social dimensions associated directly or indirectly with the catchment. A well-designed CAT plan should not only control the sedimentation of reservoir but should also provide a life support system to the local population through their active involvement. An effective CAT plan of a hydropower project is a key factor to make the project eco-friendly and sustainable. A detail separate CAT study should require in all over water shed of Sobla Gad basin. An out line about study with objective about CAT is sketched here only.

7.3.2 Catchment Area Treatment Measures

The treatment measures will be designed keeping in view the ecological as well as social dimensions of the project. The treatment measures emphasize on conservation of the catchment through plantation and supporting engineering works. It envisages an active participation of the local community. As this area is falling under restricted and sensitive zone, so a careful planning and their implementation will be required in every stage.

7.3.2.1 Plantation Works in Degraded Forest Area

It is proposed to carry out plantation in the degraded forest area. The area selected for plantation in each of the sub-water sheds is marked with the help of forest department. Delineation of plantation area from these sub watersheds is on the basis of Sediment Yield Index value and the total area of the sub watershed. Actual patches for plantation shall be earmarked physically by the CAT implementing agency accordingly at the time of execution, depending on the accessibility as well as treatibility of the area. The plantation would help in reducing the silting of reservoir in addition to the multi objective of soil conservation, water recharge and eco- restoration of the degraded area. 108 EIA/EMP Report of Sobla – I SHP A Project of UJVNL

7.3.2.2 Road Side Plantation

It is proposed to carry out road side plantation along of road, identifying suitable patches of roads in the project intervention area involving local educational institutes and local citizens and along the newly constructed road to project site.

7.3.2.3 Drainage Line Treatment and Soil Conservation Works These would include construction of check dams and retaining walls at specific locations accompanied by tree and shrub planting to control erosion in gullies, eroding streams and land slide. The location and details of these structures shall be worked out individually, keeping in view the patches of plantation and site-specific design requirements. Forest department shall carry out these works; however, local public (through Van Panchayat) shall be involved where such works fall within the village boundary.

7.3.2.4 Maintenance Support for Soil Conservation Works

Mass movement of land, erosion, monsoon related land slides and large cloudbursts are common in the catchment area, since it is geologically very fragile and seismologically active. It is most likely that the soil conservation structures constructed get affected due to the natural phenomenon. The structures will therefore require annual repairs as the need arises. One time planning and allocation of budget in this river valley project would render insufficient to take care of the treatment measures in long term. Hence a long term provision of funds for maintenance and up gradation of old soil conservation works would become necessary.

7.3.2.5 Ecorestoration Works

Ecorestoration works shall be undertaken through CWC (Community Welfare Committees). These would include the following measures, which would help in reducing the erodibility of soil or the resultant silt load in the reservoir.

 Plantation in degraded patches of civil forestland.  Water conservation and harvesting works.  Soil conservation in village area.  Animal husbandry.  Improvement in agricultural practice.  Horticulture and medicinal plants,

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 Technical and financial support for harnessing alternate-solar and micro hydel projects- sources to reduce pressure on forest for fuel wood.  Public health support including healthcare and family welfare programs.  Gender support through education and awareness programme of women.  Rural technology support programs.

7.3.2.6 Phasing of CAT works and cost estimates

Estimated cost for the CAT work is presented in table 6.3 of chapter 6. The catchment area treatment works have been phased over five year duration, so as to complete them along with the project construction. The actual start time shall, however, depend upon the overall progress of the project including approvals and disbursement of funds for the CAT plan. The forest department, taking guidance from these targets shall prepare a detailed program and get it approved from the concern authority before actual implementation.

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CHAPTER – 8

8.0 Disaster Management Plan

8.1 Natural Disaster

The hill slopes are prone to land slides, landslips, rockslides and soil creep. These hazardous features have hampered the over all progress of the region as they obstruct the roads and flow of traffic, break communication, block flowing water in stream and create temporary reservoirs and also bring down lot of soil cover and thus add enormous silt and gravel to the streams.

Because of the increase in the population and the constructional activities, the frequency of landslides and lands subsidence has increased. Heavy construction work coupled with the lack of planning for water outlet; increase water seepage culminating in the land slides. Huge amount of explosives used in construction works of road have adversely affected the ecosystem of the region and the stability of stabilized mountain slopes.

The history of forest fire, socio-economic and ecological losses associated with it clearly reveals that it has posed major threat to Himalayan forest ecosystem and acquired the character of natural calamities which is responsible for crores of rupees loss annually along with various adverse impacts on macro-climatic structure and bio-diversity of Himalayan region. Among the fire accelerating effects, the local factors have been found more responsible. The dry and heated forest floor bio-mass (fallen leaves, mosses, lichens, dead wood etc.) becomes more susceptible to the spark or flames. The factors involved in primary fire outbreaks have been identified natural as well man-made. Among the natural phenomenon, the friction between the clumps of Bamboos like trees under influence of strong wind results in to spark which ignite the dry clump sheath, leaves and burst into fire which instantly spreads into vicinity areas. The manmade fire incidences are either due to negligence or due to vested interests.

8.2 Objectives

The Disaster Management Plan (DMP) is aimed to ensure safety of life, protection of environment, protection of installation, restoration of production and salvage operations in this same order of priorities. DMP would reflect the probable consequential severity of the undesired event due to deteriorating conditions or through ‘Knock on’ effects. The objective of the industrial DMP is to make use of the combined resources of the plant and the outside services to

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optimize operational efficiency to rescue, rehabilitation and render medical help and to restore normalcy. The Project specific emergencies anticipated are Land slide and Fire. Consequence estimation has been made by considering two scenarios i.e. earthquake and fire.

8.3 Disaster Management Plan

The emergency planning for earthquake/land slide/cloudburst scenarios consists of 'hardware' aspects such as provision of evacuation pathways, setting up of alarms and warning systems, establishing communication systems besides the 'software' aspects concerning human behavior, procedures to be followed, roles and responsibilities, leadership, guidance and provision of information. Both hardware and software aspects need to be integrated into the design of emergency management. A proper guideline will be provided for preparing a contingency plan or disaster management plan during any disasters. It may be noted that this plan would serve as a reference documents consisting of salient information indicating the actions to be taken at the time of disaster, and hence, it has to be made as comprehensive as possible and it needs to be tested and updated periodically. The suggested format of the disaster management plan is outlines in this chapter. A separate detail risk assessment study will be suggested to carry out.

8.4 Purpose of the Plan

In order to delineate the tasks and needed response, it is essential to identify and characterize the vulnerable zones through inundation maps, the nature of damage potential and the characteristics of populations and structures on the downstream areas. Based on the characteristics of each hazard zone, the needed response could be delineated in the Disaster Management Plan. Hence the objectives of the plan could be to provide for:

 Timely warnings and alerts.  Assess the damage potential.  Delineate emergency action and procedures.  Delineate emergency organization and first response/action teams.  Define roles and responsibilities.  Delineate procedures for mitigation and control of incident.  Delineate access routes and safe locations.  Delineate emergency action.  Training the personnel.  Providing public information.

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The project features and structures are so small that they cannot contribute to any disaster themselves. Hence there is no specific requirement of disaster management plan as such. However, to meet the exigencies on account of natural disaster arising out of cloudburst or earthquake induced change to the power plant and appurtenant works, the following disaster management plan is proposed.

1. In the event of earthquake mother, alarm should be sounded in the power plant and the machines in operation should be automatically tripped.

2. During monsoon period, patrolling of the water conductor system should be undertaken regularly (once a shift) to locate any leakage from the water conductor and also for any possible slope slippage. Appropriate measures should be taken to close the intake gate at the weir in case leakage of water from the water conductor is noticed to prevent damage to the hill slope doam under.

3. The staff of the power station should be trained with first and practices and and made aware of action to be initiated following a natural disaster.

8.5 Emergency Response Organization The Emergency Response Organization delineated for the plan is shown in Figure 8.1. The plan must have a Chief Emergency Coordinator (CEC), who will be overall in charge of planning, execution and coordination of all activities of Disaster Management Plan. His alternate member is also to be notified for coordinating the emergency response activities. Executive Engineer or Assistant Engineer who will be present on site during any emergency act as CEC. During emergency both Assistant Engineer designated and act as ECO environment, health and safety point of view.

Chief Emergency Coordinator is to be assisted by an Emergency Planning Group (EPG) constituted for the purpose of decision making and planning the emergency effort under the plan. This group involves all the Heads of Departments of Irrigation, Revenue, Health, Police and Public Representative. To assist this group with technical information and advice, an Advisory Team consisting various experts on dam safety and related issues need to be constituted. Chief Emergency Co-ordinator also organize villagers to work in emergency as EPG and EAG member.

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A local level, preferably a taluk/settlement level, Emergency Action Groups (EAGs) need to be constituted for pooling, mobilizing and responding to the inundation situations. These groups essentially should consist of a local volunteer, engineering support group, rescue/evacuation team, medical/health volunteer, a police representative.

The Chief Emergency Coordinator needs to report and coordinate District Collector on the disaster situation and should seek any further assistance/help from District Emergency Authorities. Alternate persons for all the constituents of groups are necessarily be identified and included in the plan.

8.6 Functions of Chief Emergency Coordinator (CEC) The following functions are delineated for the Chief Emergency Coordinator. He is expected to take various emergency decisions by convening the immediate meeting/conferencing of Emergency Planning Group. Together, they are responsible for the following:  Formulation and implementation of the plan.  Guidance/ decision on matters of basic policy.  Activation of the emergency control centre and convening the emergency meeting.  Declaring the emergency zones with the help of technical personnel and experts.  Control on emergency operations.  Review of operational preparedness of emergency machinery.  Holding periodic mock/ training exercises to ensure optimum preparedness at operational levels.  Development and updating hazard scenarios and cascading effects from time to time.  Mobilizing organizations, financial and human resources for the plan.  Liaison with external/Govt. agencies and assessment of whether any public assistance is required.  Furnishing information on the incident to District, State and National level authorities and if needed competent bodies may be called for assistance.  Liaison with press/ media, to report the emergency.  Declaring rehabilitation centres in case of evacuation, if called for.  Monitoring post emergency situation in terms of health care, first aid, rehabilitation etc.  Declare all clear, once everything is normal.

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8.7 Functions of Emergency Action Group (EAG) Emergency Action Group carried out frontline activities at the time of disaster. Preferably as many local teams as possible be formulated for the purpose. The main activities of EAG are:

 Rush to the emergency zone  Make systematic assessment of hazard  Liaise with Chief Emergency Coordinator  Carryout evacuation, if necessary  Carryout emergency actions  Extend relief, first aid, human assistance  Organize rehabilitation centres

8.8 Emergency Response System The overall emergency response system needs to integrate various functional sub-systems essentially designed to generate speedy response action in terms of warnings, communications, fire fighting, medical and first aid. It is essential to delineate these systems and plan their locations and operating procedures, besides training the personnel well in advance before any emergency. Following response systems are needed for the purpose of disaster management plan.

8.9 Emergency Control Centre (ECC) Emergency Control Centre will be the focal point in case of an emergency from where the operations to handle the emergency are directed and coordinated. The centre will have to be equipped with adequate resources to receive and transmit information and directions from the Chief Emergency Coordinator. Besides equipping the centre, prior arrangements should be made so as to ensure that the centre would start activating other systems immediately, once the hazard is declared. An existing pre identified room located at safe site (free from natural disaster) will converted as ECC. An emergency control centre should therefore contain a well-designed communication system consisting of:  At least two external telephones (one incoming and the other one out going fitted with simultaneous/ selective broadcasting systems) with a EPBAX.  Wireless / Radio equipment (VHF/ walkie talkie/ pager/mobile).  Inundation/vulnerability maps indicating risk zones, assembly points, alternate evacuation routes, safe areas, rehabilitation centres, etc.  Telephone directory of emergency response system.

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 List of all emergency equipment and personnel for evacuation, personnel protection, medical aid, etc., under the plan as well as with Govt. agencies in the district.  List of ambulances, base medical facilities, hospitals, rehabilitation centres, etc.  Reference books/ chemical dossiers  Copies of Disaster Management Plan

8.10 Training of the Personnel A Disaster Management Plan, no matter how carefully prepared, cannot be effective unless accompanied by training program that include periodic exercises and drills. The objectives of training in emergency preparedness are related to the following:  Familiarize personnel with the content of the plan and its manner of implementation.  Train specific response personnel and new personnel in particular duties requiring special skills.  Introduce personnel to new equipment, techniques, and concepts of operation.  Keep personnel informed of changes in the plan or procedures.  Test the preparedness of response personnel.  Test the validity, effectiveness, timing, and content of the plan and implementing procedures.  Test emergency equipment.  Update and modify the plan on the basis of the experience acquired through exercises and drills.  Maintain cooperative capability within first response team and with other response/ mutual aid and agencies.  Maintain good emergency response capability.

8.11 Training Schemes for First Response Team Every member of first response team needs initial training followed by periodic refresher courses. Members of emergency response organization would also benefit from this training, improve communication procedures, and provide an opportunity for responders to become familiar with areas of hazards where they could be called to assist.

8.12 Mock Drills and Demonstration Exercises Drills and exercise are vital to emergency preparedness. They involve enactment, under conditions of a mock scenario, of the implementation of the response actions performed during

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an emergency. Development and conduct of following two types of exercises are recommended for implementation according to the needs:  Tabletop drills or exercises are useful for orientation purpose, while gathered around a table, the emergency response organization is presented with a situation to be resolved  Exercises are more comprehensive and test the entire response organization up to and including communication with all response functionaries.

All the above type of exercises are strongly recommended to be conducted atleast once in a year, wherein members of first response team could actively involve. Deficiencies that may be discovered during an exercise of the plan and procedures should be corrected immediately.

8.13 Public Information System

During a crisis following an accident, the affected people, public and media representatives would like to know about the situation from time to time and the response of the emergency authority to the crisis. It is important to give timely information to the public in order to prevent panic and rumours. The emergency public information could be carried out in three phases.

8.14 Before the crisis This will include the safety procedure to be followed during an emergency through posters, talks and mass media in local language. Leaflets containing do's/ dont's should be circulated to educate the affected population.

8.15 During the crisis

Dissemination of information about the nature of the incident, actions taken and instructions to the public about protective measures to be taken, evacuation, etc. are the important steps during this phase.

8.16 After the crisis Attention should be focused on information concerning restoration of essential services, movement/restrictions, etc. Various tasks of the public information system would include:  Quick dissemination of emergency instructions to the personnel and public.  To receive all calls from medial public regarding emergency situations and respond meticulously.  Obtain current information from the Central Control Room.  Prepare news release.

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 Brief visitors/media.  Maintain contact with hospitals and get information about the casualties.

8.17 Dissemination of Public Information Any emergency preparedness plan, however efficiently it is outlined, cannot succeed if the participation of involved community is not planned. To make the local community an active participant, community awareness along with Emergency Preparedness has to be implemented, so that it can foster understanding in the people and help in controlling emergency situations.

The target audience of warning system is personnel and public who are not trained about hazards, warning signals and protective actions. People tend to seek confirmation of the hazard from neighbourhood and the media, which takes time. For a public warning system, to be effective, it must serve only as a trigger to initiate preplanned protective action by the public. Through community awareness efforts conducted by local planning committees, the public must be made aware of protective options which include sheltering within their work places and evacuation. The community should be mainly be made aware of the following information:  The likely hazards that can occur in their vicinity.  The type of warning system employed to alert them, in case of a disaster.  The protective action that should be adapted in different situations of emergency.  Knowledge of the escape routes and assembly points, in case of evacuation from disaster. zones

8.18 Safety Plan

Safety of both men and materials during construction and operation phases is concern. The disaster in any hydel project especially in Himalayan zone will be due to land slide, Cloud brust and earthquake may collapse of structures and fire/explosion, etc. keeping in view the safety requirement during construction, operation and maintenance phases, safety policy with the following regulations needs to be adopted. In any disaster situation Emergency Officer immediate intimate District Disaster Management Centre. Some important telephone Nos. of Govt. official’s of District Pithoragarh is presented in table 8.1.

1. To allocate sufficient resources to maintain safe and healthy conditions of work. 2. To take steps to ensure that all known safety factors are taken into account in the design, construction, operation and maintenance of plants, machinery and equipment. 3. To ensure that adequate safety instructions are given to employees.

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4. To provide wherever necessary protective equipment safety appliances and clothing, and to ensure their proper use. 5. To inform employees about materials, equipment or processes used in their work which are known to be potential hazardous to health or safety. 6. To keep all operations and methods of work under regular review for making necessary changes from the point of view of safety in the light of experience and up to date knowledge. 7. To provide appropriate facilities of First aid and promote treatment for injuries and illness at work. 8. To provide appropriate instruction, training, retraining and supervision to employees in health and safety, first aid and to ensure that adequate publicity is given to these matters. 9. To ensure proper implementation of fire prevention methods and an appropriate fire fighting service to gather with training facilities for personnel involved in this service. 10. To organize collection, analysis and presentation of data on accident, sickness and incident involving personal injury or injury to health with a view of taking corrective remedial and preventive action. 11. To promote through the established machinery, joint consultation in health and safety to matters to ensure effective participation by all employees. 12. To publish/notify regulations, instructions and notices in the common language of employees. 13. To prepare separate safety rules for each types of occupation/processes involved in a project. 14. To ensure regular safety inspection by a competent person at suitable intervals of all buildings, equipment, work places and operations. 15. To frame and implement safety guidelines in operation.

8.19 About Area The entire basin in ecologically fragile, unstable and less rigid from the origination point to its confluence as it is also with the case of Himalyan Mountain system. The characteristics features of the basin in terms of fragility, are more pronouns to discuss in the way that lowering the environmental conditions in both, highly elevated reaches and low laying areas. The process of upliftment of mountain peaks and deepening of the river villages in continued due to tectonic forces active throughout the basin resulting instability and disturbances in the landmasses. The natural hazards, both terrestrial (earthquakes) and atmospheric hazards (cloudburst landslides

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and flush floods), can be seen every where however the impact of natural hazards increases with increasing elevation.

The basin is technically more sensible and falls under the severe seismic prone region. Already, severe earthquakes have been taken place. The situation is grim in the area and there are many cases in the surrounding of study area where due to landslide many villages were affected. During study heavy land slide has been observed at Chautuldhar plates 14 and annexure II indicates about land slide.

8.19.1 Causes of land slide Following are the main causes of land slides in the mountain region : 1. Instabling of terrain, because the process of deepening river valleys and uplifting of mountain peaks are continued. 2. Human induced activities. 3. Unscientific measures used for construction of roads such as blasting, cutting of fragile slope etc. 4. Heavy down pour and repetition of cloud burst at a time and within a limited geographical area. 5. Steep slope and high velocity of water. 6. Over grazing and consequently soil erosion. 7. Construction of settlement on the instable slopes.

Earthquake, cloudbursts, landslides flash floods etc. are the disasters, which may not be stopped. But the intensity of damage due to the occurrence of these phenomena can be reduced after adopting several measures. These measures are:

1. It is very difficult to predict the actual occurrence of landslides. Yet there are certain signals like forecasted heavy rainfall. Seismic activity combined with landslide vulnerability can predict the estimated time and possible consequences. The locale people to be trained to recognize the signals and act upon it. 2. A warning system to relay information about landslides could be placed near the settlements to help quick evacuation. 3. Public awareness programmes for people on causes and effects of landslides, climatic conditions that lead to landslides would be an extremely effective measure to prevent damages. 4. Restrictions on building activity on the landslide areas.

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5. The cloudburst has triggered debris slides along the tension cracks and caused casualties and damages on the large scale in the catchment areas should not be allowed to be obstructed and house construction activities in the interior of hills regulated. 6. The whole of Himalayan region is earthquake prone area, house should be allowed to be built only in accordance with the earthquake resistant designs recommended by the concern authority. 7. A safe distance from each side of the river/nala, according to the situation, should be left and no cultivated fields and house made on the said distance. 8. All landslide affected zones should be left for natural stabilization and no human activities be allowed in such landslide affected weak slopes till the area are fully stabilized in due course of time. Note : A report of on site and off site emergency plan should be prepared and submitted to concerned department.

DMP can be managed with participation of local people and villagers during any emergency as per emergency response organization chart presented as figure 8.1 at the end of report.

8.20 Cost Estimate

The budget for mitigation and prevention during any disaster are presented in table 6.4 in chapter 6.

Presently Uttarakhand Govt. has establish Disaster Mitigation and Management Centre (DMMC) for Disaster mitigation & management in Uttrakhand. DMMC is also providing consultancy and training programme for Govt. & Non Govt. organization. It is advisable that UJVNL with the help of DMMC develop a strong regional knowledge base towards disaster policy, prevention mechanism, mitigation measures, preparedness and response plan.

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Table 8.1 - Important Telephone No. of Govt. Officials STD Code : 05964

Designation Office Residence & Fax No. District Magistrate 225301 (Collec), 225201 (Camp off.) SDM Magistrate 225950 225372 SDM Dharchula 222207 222271 Chief Development officer 223218 225804, 225336 (FAX) District Development officer 225097 Chief Agriculture Officer 225104 Block Development Officer Dharchula 222253 District Horticulture Officer 225275 General Manager Distt. Industry Centre 223574 District Economic & Statistical Officer 225143 District Panchayat Raj Officer 223174 Chief Veterinary Officer 225319 E.E. Provincial Division P.W.D. Pithoragarh 225115 225209 E.E. E/M Division P.W.D. Pithoragarh 225429 225429(FAX) E.E. Irrigation Construction Division Pithoragarh 235139 225140 E.E. Construction Division P.W.D. 238724 228730 S.E. Nirman Mandal U.K. Peyjal Nigam Pithoragarh 225341 225492 E.E. Nirman Shakha U.K. Peyjal Nigam Pithoragarh 225258 E.E. 2nd Nirman Shakha U.K. Peyjal Nigam Pithoragarh 225121 Executive Engineer U.K. Jal Sansthan Pithoragarh 225237 District Education Officer 225227 Superintendent of Police 225539 225023 Dy. Superintendent of Police 225539 225410 Police Station 225130 Fire Station 225314 Police Wireless Office 225402 Police Lines 225130 Divisional Forest Officer 225234 225390 Divisional Logging Manager 224187 Chief Medical Officer 225142 225504 District Hospital 225687 Asst. Regional Transport Officer 228222 District Information Officer 225549 Commandant ITBP 225494 Other Contact No. Fire Department Safety Department UEPPC, Dehradun Industry Department

Note : Contact No. of Project Authority, Operating Staff and Security Staff will be included after office establishment at site.

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CHAPTER – 9

9.0 EMP Implementation and Monitoring

A large part of the sampling and monitoring activities will be concerned with long term monitoring aimed at providing an early warning of any undesirable changes or trends in the natural environment that could be associated with industries and associated activities. This is essential to determine whether the changes are a response to a cycle of climatic conditions or are due to the industrialization and associated activities.

In particular, a monitoring strategy is required to ensure that all environmental resources, which may be subjected to contamination, are kept under review. Monitoring of the individual elements of the environment is necessary.

To meet the above objective an “Environmental Management Department (EMD)” will be formed at project site which will be responsible for implementation of EMP and post operation monitoring. The officers of the department will meet frequently to assess the progress and analysis the data collected during the preceding fortnight/month. The following items will be considered under the monitoring schedule.

9.1 Meteorological Station

It is proposed to install a meteorological station at power house SHP. The following parameters will be recorded regularly. Metrological equipment required are presented in table 9.1.  Wind speed & Direction  Rainfall  Temperature and humidity

9.2 Water environment Instrument for turbidity hardness and TDS measurement may be procured. This information will be useful for monitoring the erosion damage of turbine underwater parts.

Surface water (Down stream of Sobla gad) should also be analysed once in a season and compared as per CPCB norms for Aquatic resources. Drinking water should be analysed as per IS:10500 on three month interval from different villages situated nearby Project site.

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9.3 Socio-economic development

The project management through environmental department will be in regular touch with concern authority and local surrounding villages to monitor the implementation of various socio economic developmental schemes.

9.4 Monitoring/Analytical Equipment Required

Table 9.1 - Monitoring / Analytical Equipments / required for Project Sl. No. Monitoring Equipments Parameter / Frequency Function Equipments Nos. with Nos. UJVNL Required Meteorological monitoring 1. Automatic Weather - 1* Wind speed, Continuous Monitoring Station direction, Temp., rainfall, humidity *Will be procured based with commissioning of project Budget provision made

9.5 Implementation Arrangement

9.6 Institutional Implementation Arrangements

UJVNL will be responsible for implementation of all the mitigation and management measures suggested in Environmental Monitoring Programme while PTCUL will be responsible for transmission line. Management of UJVNL will monitor the smooth implementation of Environment Management Plan. The in-charge of EMD (GM/DGM) will report all the environmental matters to higher management as per the reporting schedule on prescribed formats. The higher management will supervise the reported activity from time to time for smooth implementation of Environmental Mitigation and Management measures and will take necessary actions, if required.

For successful implementation of the environmental management plan other agencies of the State may also be involved by UJVNL, if required (for regulatory requirement or technical support).

124 Annexure - I

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Village Block Respondent Date Male Female

i) Name of the respondent : Age ii) Address Village : Panchayat : Block /Tehsil : District :

1.0 General information (Location) Road Power Drinking water (supply & availability)

1.1 Family size & composition :

Name Age Sex Occupation Level of education Head of the family 1. Spouse 1. Dependents

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

2.0 Caste

3.0 Religion 4.0 Land

Land Amount (acre) a) Own land b) Leased out land c) Leased in land

5.0 Cropping Pattern

Sl. Name of the Area (acre) Production Value (Rs.) No. crop/season Dry Irrigated (Qtl.) 5.1 Kharif : a) Paddy b) Maize c) Others, if any

5.2 Rabi : a) Wheat b) Mustard c) Gram d) Others, if any

5.3 Summer : a) Paddy b) Maize c) Others, if any

Total

6.0 Cost of cultivation (Rs/year) :

7.0 Family income (Total)

Sl. No. Name of the earning Source of Family income members income (Rs./Month) Primary Secondary 1. 2. 3.

Total gross income

8.0 Household savings and consumption pattern : (In Rs./yr or in % of total consumption)

Savings Consumption* (Gross Pattern of consumption * income – farm inputs - savings) Food Education Clothing Medical Others

(* to be derived)

9.0 Health status of family member

10.0 Fuel used

11.0 Peoples’ perception regarding the project

Advantages Disadvantages 1. 1. 2. 2. 3. 3. 4. 4. 5. 5.

Investigator :

Name :

Designation :

Signature :

Date :

Annexure - II

Plate – 1

(A) A view of land sliding at Chautuldhar

(B) Water sampling on Sobla Gad Plate - 2

(A) Surface water sampling on Dhauli Ganga

(B) Water sampling at village Dar Plate - 3

(A) Ambient Noise Monitoring in village Dar

(B) Ambient Noise Monitoring at diversion site Plate - 4

(A) Soil sampling at village Khairi Gaon

(B) Soil sampling at village Dar Plate - 5

(A) Socio economic survey work at Sobla

(B) Socio economic survey at site Figure 1.1 – Political Map of Pithoragarh

Figure 1.2 Proposed site marked in trekking map of Kumaun Hills

Sobla

Proposed Site Figure 1.3 The physiographic-lithotectonic domains separated by intracrustal boundary thrusts of regional simension most of these thrust faults are active.

Figure 1.4 Simplified Geological map of the Lesser Kumaun Himalaya (After Valdiya, 1980b)

Figure 1.5 Occurrence of various mineral deposit in Kumaun in the context of Geological formations.

Figure 1.6 Relief Map of Uttarakhand

Figure 1.7 Drainage network of Kumaun showing different hydrographic regimes and their typical drainage basins.

Figure 1.8 Forest Map of Uttrakhand State

Figure 1.9 Seismic Zoning Map of India

Figure 5.1 - Impact Identification Matrix for proposed Small Hydro Power Project of UJVNL on Sobla Gad at Saobla

SITING CONSTRUCTION OPERATION FUTURE

Activity

entification Id

erialand Storage Transfer

Raw Mat Acquisition of Land Urbanisation due to Proposed hydal hydal Proposed due to Urbanisation Project Transport Development Economic Socio Site Clearance Clearance Site Excavation Parameter Water Requirement Energy requirement and Generation Transport Air Pollutants Disposal Effluent Solid Waste Handling Heat Emission Noise Pollution Movement of Vehicles for Construction Mateerial Green Belt Development Construction and Air Quality        Noise Level      Surface Water          Quality Ground Water   Quality Soil Quality        Agriculture       Flora         Fauna         Forest       Aesthetics   Land and property       Value  Land Use  Population/Habitat    Basic Amenities       Quality of Life       Economy and          Income Level   Employment           Trade and            Commerce Historical and   Cultural Resources  Adverse Impact,  Significant Impact,  Negligable Impact  Beneficial Impact

Figure 8.1 Environment Management Organization Chart

EE (DGM (EHS)

Assistant * En Assistant * H&S Engineer Engineer

Jr. Engineer Jr. Engineer Jr. Engineer Jr. Engineer (Civil) (Electrical) (Mechanical) Environment

Security Horticulture Health Safety Chemist Supervisor supervisor officer supervisor supervisor

Asstt. Security Asstt. Security Gardner Gardner supervisor supervisor

* Designated for environment, Health and safety work