SHRI SATISH CHOUDHARY

BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT

SANDSTONE MINING (ML no. 11/12, area 4 ha), at Sirrond, Rupbas, Bharatpur .

1 | Page

INTRODUCTION

3.10 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

3.10.1 INTRODUCTION

An ecological study of the ecosystem is essential to understand the impact of industrialization and on existing flora and fauna of the study area. Studies on various aspects of ecosystem play an important role in identifying sensitive issues for under taking appropriate action to mitigate the impact, if any. The biological study was under taken as a part of the EIA study report to understand the present status of ecosystem prevailing in the study area, to compare it with past condition with the help of available data, to predict changes in the biological environment as a result of present activities and to suggest measures for maintaining its health. A survey was conducted to study the flora & fauna in 10 km radius. Some of the information was gathered from the local habitants. All the collected data were classified to interpret the impact of on the flora and fauna of that region. Survey of the wild as well as cultivated crop plants was made and all the available information was recorded.

3.10.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The present study was undertaken with the following objectives:  To understand the spectrum of domesticated and wild of the study area, prospect likely impact, if any, of the existing enterprise on the local biodiversity and suggest mitigation measure for vulnerable biota.  To assess the biodiversity and to understand the natural resource potential.  To assess the nature and distribution of vegetation in and around the existing mining activity.  Ethno botanical survey in the to assess the usage of plants.  Devise management & conservation measures for biodiversity.

3.10.3 METHODOLOGY

The present study was carried out in given steps: (a) Estimation of Floristic components  Field survey was conducted for ocular assessment of flora present within

2 | Page

the 10 km radius study area of mine site.  An inventory of all the floral species present within the study area was made. Ethno- botanical plants being used by the local people to treat their ailments were also inventoried.  Sample of un- identified species was collected, and identification was done by referring to standard taxonomic guides and consulting the experts, when needed.

(b) Survey and sampling for estimation of plant species diversity  Site selection criterion: The mine site is located at Tehsil: Rupbas, District: Bharatpur, Rajasthan. The study area comprises of 10 km radial distance from the mine site, taking mill stone mine as center.  In all, 15 locations were selected for study on biological aspects. List of sampling location is given below and sampling area marked on 10 km radius map in figure no. 3.14.

 The entire study area was divided into three categories namely; highly disturbed area, moderately disturbed area and mildly disturbed area, on the basis of prevalence of the wind in the region i.e. wind rose diagram, and proximity to the mining industry.  Selection of sampling locations in these categories was made with reference to topography, , vegetation pattern, etc. The observations were taken on natural vegetation, roadside plantation and non- forest area (agricultural field, in plain areas, village wasteland, etc.) for quantitative representation of different species.  To study the species diversity, standard method of analyzing vegetation i.e. Quadrat Sampling was done for determination of vegetation composition and richness.  Comparative analysis of the outcome of the Quadrat Sampling was done to understand the frequency, dominance and abundance of species observed in the different zones of disturbance.  Geographic co-ordinates of important locations were recorded using hand held Etrex Garmin GPS instrument. TABLE: 3.17 SAMPLING LOCATIONS FOR ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY

S. Sampling Location Distance from Direction from N mine site mine site o.

3 | Page

1. Nagla Jatwansi village 1.5 km SE 2. Nagla Pachhandra village 1.8 km SE 3. Richhoha village 3.0 km SSE 4 Nagla Hansraj village 2.0 km ESE 5 Nagla Mirzapur village 1.0 km S 6 Sirrond village 2.8 km WSW 7. Rupbas village 4.5 km E 8 Banpur village 5.0 km ENE 9 Jagnair village 4.8 km S 1 Khorpara village 5.0 km S 0 1 Daulatgarh village 6.5 km NNW 1 1 Badanpur village 5.0 km N 2 1 Ajitpur village 4.0 km NW 3 1 Rudawal village 3.0 km W 4 1 Tontpur village 0.7 km N 5 Source: Field Study

.Estimation of Faunistic components

i. Ground survey for fauna was carried out by trekking/ visiting and vehicular transects method for identification of groups such as butterflies, insects, birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals etc. ii. For Avifauna, Visual Encounter Survey (VES) technique was used in the Morning (06:00 to 10:00 hrs.) and Evening (15:00 to 18:00 hrs.) for inventorization and determination of diversity. iii. For Mammals, reptiles, amphibians etc., species have been recorded by calls, droppings, burrows, pug marks, indirect species- specific evidence, interaction with local people and actual sighting. iv. Nocturnal survey was conducted in late hours for crepuscular animals like Jackal, Fox, Reptiles, and Bats etc. Also, Light trap method was used to determine the diversity of insects. v. A route map has been prepared showing the trekking route used for inventorization by ground survey. vi. Photo documentation of all the avifaunal and faunal species, cropping pattern and important floral species has been done. (c) Assessment of green belt and plantation An assessment of green belt/plantation area and species planted has been done to check the compliance of the targets as proposed by the

4 | Page

project proponent during the environmental clearance.

3.12.3 OBSERVATIONS i. Biological Environment of the Study area (Core and Buffer)

Study of biological environment is one of the most important aspects in view of the need for conservation of environmental quality and biodiversity. Ecological systems show complex inter- relationships between biotic and abiotic components including dependence, competition and mutualism. Biotic components comprises of both plant and communities, which interact not only within and between them but also with the abiotic components viz. physical and chemical components of the environment. Generally, biological communities are the indicators of climatic and edaphic factors. Studies on biological aspects of ecosystems are important for safety of natural flora and fauna. Information on the impact of environmental stress on the community structure serves as an inexpensive and efficient early warning system to check the damage to a particular ecosystem. The biological environment includes mainly terrestrial ecosystem and aquatic ecosystem. Biological communities are dependent on environmental conditions and resources of its location. It may change if there is change in the environment. Several variables like temperature, humidity, rainfall, soil characteristics, topography etc., are responsible for maintaining the homeostasis of the environment. A change in any one of these variables may lead to stress on the ecosystem. The animal and the plant communities exist in their natural in a well-organized manner. Their natural setting can be disturbed by any externally induced anthropological activities or by naturally induced calamities or disaster. So, once this setting is disturbed it becomes practically impossible or takes a longer time to come to its original state. Plants and animals are more susceptible to environmental stress. A change in the composition of biotic communities under stress is reflected by a change in the distribution pattern, density, diversity, frequency, dominance and abundance of natural species of flora and fauna existing in the ecosystem. These changes over a span of time can be quantified and related to the existing environmental factors. The sensitivity of animal and plant species to the changes occurring in their existing ecosystem can therefore, be used for understanding the implications of a project. The Core zone mainly hilly terrain and buffer zone mainly flat lands having 120 villages and Rupbas Township. In buffer zone Gambhir River, Kawar Nadi, Chulhai Nala, Moti Jhil, Loheri Nala, Bisundari Nala, Jhinjhan Nadi, Kakund Nadi are recorded and found they all are seasonal water bodies.

5 | Page

The core zone of mining lease has no forest in it. The vegetation is also very sparse and scanty. Most part of the lease area is purchased from local people and some part is government land. The buffer zone has 11 Protected & Reserved Forest- Bansi Paharpur PF, Kathumari PF, Noni PF, Jagnair PF, Bidhauli PF, Sarendhi PF, Devretha RF and 3 unknown Protected Forest and 1 Reserved Forest area are recorded. These are control of Bharatpur Forest Divison and one part of Rupbas Range of State Forest Department. All these forest area are surrounded by villages. This caused great biotic pressure on forests, the forest administration closed the forest area with chain link fencing. This effective fencing resulted very well & forest vegetation responded very well. At present (2015) the density of forest is nearly 1.9 to 3.6.

The Protected & Reserved forest area have Chital (Axis axis), Langur (Presbytis entellus), Monkey (Bonnet macaque), Stripped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena), Indian Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), Blue bull (Boselaphus tragocamelus), Jackal (Canis aureus), Indian fox (Vulpes bengalensis) along with Baya weaver (Ploceus philippinus), Indian cuckoo (Cuculus micropterus), Grey francolin (Francolinus pondicerianus), crow (Corvus splendens) etc. The forest department is planning to attract visitors and student to enjoy the bio-diversity of the area. Raptors diversity is much in that area.

The forests have mixed crops with Holoptelea integrifolia (Papri), Pongamia pinnata (Karanj), Terminalia arjuna (Arjun), Aegle marmelos (Bel patra), Buchanania lanzan (Char), Emblica officinalis (Amla), Mitragyna parvifolia (Mudi), Zizyphus nummularia (Ber), Tectona grandis (Teak), Butea monosperma (Palash), Gmelina arborea (Khamhar) along with shrubs, herbs and climbers.

The all reserved and protected forest also has the same vegetation but in little degraded stage. Lists of flora and fauna found in Bharatpur forest division have been annexed here with and Cow,

6 | Page

Sheep and Dogs are both domesticated animals. There is no source of fish, but due to demand of fish meat, some fish species could be seen in fish market. Except in the forest area no plantation were observed.

Figure 3.16

Legends to Photographs 1. Overview of Core area 2. Overview of study with scanty & sparse vegetation and poor diversity 3. Apiculture in buffer zone 4. Nesting of birds in mostly areas 5. Gambhir River (Seasonal) in dry condition

ii. Inventory of flora and fauna a. Floral diversity in the study area TABLE: 3.18 LIST OF FOREST BLOCKS WITHIN 10 KM RADIUS

 Bansi Paharpur PF (~1.5 km in South direction from Plot no. 2B)  Protected Forest (~4.0 km in East direction from Plot no. 5)  Protected Forest (~4.2 km in SSE direction from Plot no. 5)  Protected Forest (~5.5 km in East direction from plot no. 5)  Sarendhi PF (~5.5 km in South Direction from plot no. 4)  Noni PF (~6.5 km in south direction from plot no. 4)  Kathumari PF (~6.5 km in South Direction from Plot No. 3)  Jagnair PF (~7.0 km in South direction from Plot No. 3)  Bidhauli PF (~9.0 km in South Direction from Plot no. 4)  Deventha RF (~6.0 km in ENE direction from Plot No. 5  Reserved Forest (~9.0 km in North Direction from Plot No. 5) Vegetation in Forest (RF/PF) area S. No. Scientific name Common name Family Habit 1. Phoenix sylvestris Khajoor Arecaceae T 2. mauritiana Ber T 3. Holoptelea integrifolia Papri,Chilbul Utreaceae T 4. Terminalia tomentosa Saja Combretaceae T 5. Pongamia pinnata Karan T 6. Acacia senegal Kumta Fabaceae T 7. Acacia leucophloea Ronjh Fabaceae T

7 | Page

8. Buchanania lanzan Char Anacardiaceae T 9. Acacia nilotica Babool Fabaceae T 10. Balanites aegyptiaca Higot/ Desert date Zygophyllaceae T 11. Gmelina arborea Khamhar Lamiaceae T 12. Ficus religiosa Pipal Moraceae T 13. Ficus benghalensis Bargad Moraceae T 14. Anogeissus pendula Dhok Combretaceae T 15. Butea monosperma Dhak Fabaceae T 16. Pithecellobium dulce Jungal jalebi Fabaceae T 17. Mitragyna parvifolia Mudi Rubiaceae T 18. Aegle marmelos Bel patra Rutaceae T 19. Prosopis juliflora Bilayati Babool Fabaceae T 20. Ricinus communis Arandi Euphorbiaceae S 21. Ziziphus nummularia Jharberi Rhamnaceae S

22. Calotropis procera Aak Asclepiadaceae S 23. Phyllanthus emblica Amla Phyllanthaceae S 24. Euphorbia neriifolia Dandathor Euphorbiaceae S 25. Opuntia elatior Nag phani Cactaceae S 26. Calotropis gigantea Aakra Asclepiadaceae S 27. Capparis decidua Kair Capparaceae S 28. Leptadenia pyrotechnica Khip Apocynaceae S 29. Citrullus colocynthis Chitraa Cucurbitaceae H 30. Datura metel Dhatura Solanaceae H 31. Argemone mexicana Pili Kantili Papaveraceae H 32. Sphaeranthus indicus Mundi Asteraceae H 33. Pedalium murex Bada gokhru Pedaliacae H 34. Amaranthus spinosus Jangli chaulai Amaranthaceae H 35. Aerva tomentosa Bui Amaranthaceae H 36. Acalypha indica Muktajhuri Euphorbiaceae H 37. Helianthus annuus Sunflower Asteraceae H 38. Indigofera cordifolia Gokhru Fabaceae H 39. Lantana camara Raimuniya Verbenaceae H 40. Tephrosia purpurea Sarphonk Fabaceae H 41. Taraxacum officinale Common dandelion Asteraceae H 42. Xanthium strumarium Chota gokhru Asteraceae H 43. Ipomoea nil kaladana Convolvulaceae C 44. reflexa Amarbel Convolvulaceae C

8 | Page

45. Actiniopteris radiata Ray Fern Pteridaceae P T 46. Adiantum incisum Maidenhair ferns Pteridaceae P T 47. Adiantum lunulatum walking maidenhair fern Pteridaceae P T 48. Cheilanthes farinosa Lip ferns Pteridaceae P T 49. Cymbopogon citratus Lemon grass Poaceae G 50. Aristida depressa Bristle grass Poaceae G 51. Aristida depressa Bristle grass Poaceae G 52. Chloris dolichostachya - Poaceae G 53. Dichanthium annulatum Sheda Grass Poaceae G Source: Field Survey

TABLE - 3.19 INVENTORY OF FLORAL DIVERSITY IN THE STUDY AREA Based on Actual Sighting, based on inputs from locals and Perused from Secondary Literature Habit: Tree (T), Shrub (S), Herb (H), Grass (G), Climber (C) and Hydrophytes (Hyd.)

S. Scientific name Local name Family Ha C Buf No. bit o fer 1. Acacia senegal Kumta Fabaceae T - + 2. Acacia leucophloea Ronjh Fabaceae T - + 3. Acacia nilotica Babool Fabaceae T + + 4. Azadirachta indica Neem Meliaceae T + + 5. Albizia lebbeck Indian siris Fabaceae T + + 6. Albizia amara Krishna siris Fabaceae T - + 7. Cassia siamea Kassod Fabaceae T - + 8. Cassia fistula Amaltash Fabaceae T - + 9. Butea monosperma Dhak Fabaceae T - + 10. Anogeissus pendula Dhok Combretaceae T - + 11. Ailanthus excelsa Ardu Simaroubaceae T - + 12. Dalbergia sissoo Shisham Fabaceae T - + 13. Aegle marmelos Bel patra Rutaceae T - + 14. Delonix regia Gulmohar Caesalpiniaceae T - + 15. Ficus religiosa Pipal Moraceae T - + 16. Eucalyptus globulus Safeda/Sugandhapa Myrtaceae T - + 17. Ficus benghalensis Bargadt Moraceae T + + 18. Ficus religiosa Pipal Moraceae T - + 19. Bombax ceiba Silk cotton tree Malvaceae T - + 20. Terminalia arjuna Arjun Combretaceae T - + 21. Terminalia Saja Combretaceae T - + tomentosa 22. Syzygium cumini Jamun Myrtaceae T - + 23. Buchanania lanzan Char Anacardiaceae T - +

9 | Page

24. Pithecellobium Jungal jalebi Fabaceae T - + 25. Pongamiadulce pinnata Karanj Fabaceae T - + 26. Polyalthia longifolia Ashoka Annonaceae T - + 27. Prosopis juliflora Vilayati Babool Fabaceae S - + 28. Mangifera indica Mango Anacardiaceae T - + 29. Phoenix sylvestris Khajoor Arecaceae T + + 30. Balanites aegyptiaca Higot/ Desert date Zygophyllaceae T - + 31. Holoptelea Papri Utreaceae T - + 32. Gmelinaintegrifolia arborea Khamhar Lamiaceae T - + 33. Mitragyna parvifolia Mudi Rubiaceae T + +

34. Prosopis cineraria Khejri Fabaceae T - + 35. Phyllanthus emblica Amla Phyllanthaceae S - + 36. Ziziphus Ber Rhamnaceae S + + 37. Ziziphusnummularia mauritiana Mota Ber Rhamnaceae S - + 38. Calotropis procera Aak Asclepiadaceae S + + 39. Capparis decidua Kair Capparaceae S - + 40. Cassia tora Sickle pod Caesalpinioidea S - + e 41. Ocimum basilicum Basil Lamiaceae S + + 42. Salvadora oleoides Pilu Salvadoraceae S + + 43. Parkinsonia aculeata Ram baval Fabaceae S - + 44. Euphorbia neriifolia Dandathor Euphorbiaceae S - + 45. Opuntia elatior Nag phani Cactaceae S + + 46. Lantana camara Raimuniya Verbenaceae S + + 47. Nerium oleander Kaner Apocynaceae S - + 48. Plumeria alba Champa Apocynaceae S - + 49. Abutilon indicum Indian mallow Malvaceae S + + 50. Ricinus communis Arandi Euphorbiaceae S + + 51. Ipomoea carnea Besharam Convolvulaceae S + + Leptadenia Khip Apocynaceae S + + 52. pyrotechnica 53. Argemone mexicana Pili Kantili Papaveraceae H + + 54. Amaranthus Jangli chaulai Amaranthaceae H - + spinosus 55. Aerva tomentosa Bui Amaranthaceae H + + 56. Acalypha indica Muktajhuri Euphorbiaceae H - + 57. Citrullus colocynthis Chitraa Cucurbitaceae H - + 58. Datura metel Dhatura Solanaceae H + + Commelina Benghal day flower Commelinaceae H + + 59. benghalensis 60. Helianthus annuus Sunflower Asteraceae H - + 61. Tridax procumbens Coat buttons flower Asteraceae H + + 62. Tamarindus indica Imli Fabaceae T + +

10 | Page

63. Indigofera cordifolia Gokhru Fabaceae H + + 64. Xanthium Chota gokhru Asteraceae H + + 65. Achyranthestai aspera Prickly chaff flower Amaranthaceae H + + 66. Sphaeranthus Mundi Asteraceae H + + 67. Tephrosiaidi purpurea Sarphonk Fabaceae H + + 68. Pedalium murex Bada gokhru Pedaliacae H + + 69. Cuscuta reflexa Amarbel Convolvulaceae C - + 70. Aristida depressa Bristle grass Poaceae G + + 71. Chloris - Poaceae G - + dolichostachya 72. Lasiurus scindicus Sewan grass Poaceae G - + 73. Cynodon dactylon Doob ghas Poaceae G - +

74. Cymbopogon Lemon grass Poaceae G - + 75. Heteropogonit at Tussock grass Poaceae G - + contortus 76. Cenchrus biflorus - Poaceae G + + Dichanthium Sheda Grass Poaceae G - + 77. annulatum 78. Eragrostis japonica Panghas Poaceae G - + Saccharum - Poaceae G - + 79. spontaneum 80. Typha aunguastata Patera Typhaceae Hy - + d 81. Hydrilla verticillata Water thyme Hydrocharitacea Hy - + 82. Trapa natans Water caltrop Lythraceaee Hyd - + 83. Pistia stratiotes Jal Gulab Araceae Hyd - + d 84. Nymphae odorata Water lily Nymphaeaceae Hy - + 85. Ipomoea obscura Glorry Convolvulaceae Hyd - + Source: Field Survey d (+) Shows: Presence of the species in the Core and Buffer Zone (-) Shows: Absence of the species in the Core and Buffer Zone Analysis of Flora  According to Botanical Survey of India, No endemic, endangered and rare species of flora recorded in threatened status in study area.  Photographs showing floral diversity in the study area are shown below.

11 | Page

1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

Figure 3.17 FLORAL DIVERSITY Legends to Photographs 1. Holoptelea integrifolia 2. Acacia nilotica 3. Dalbergia sissoo 4. Azadirachta indica 5. Mangifera indica 6. Butea monosperma 7. Salvadora oleoides 12 | Page

8. Bombax ceiba

1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8 Figure 3.18: FLORAL DIVERSITY Legends to Photographs 1. Pongamia pinnata 2. Ailanthus excelsa 3. Phoenix sylvestris 4. Cassia siamea 5. Ficus benghalensis 6. Acacia leucophloea 7. Lantana camara 8. Cuscuta reflexa

13 | Page

1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

Figure 3.19: FLORAL DIVERSITY Legends to Photographs 1. Ricinus communis 2. Prosopis juliflora 3. Tamarindus indica 4. Nymphaea pubescens 5. Citrullus colocynthis 6. Tephrosia purpurea 7. Commelina benghalensis 8. Opuntia elatior 14 | Page

1 2

3 4

5 6

7

Figure 3.20: FLORAL DIVERSITY Legends to Photographs 1. Saccharum spontaneum 2. Indigofera cordifolia 3. Cenchrus biflorus 4. Ziziphus mauritiana 5. Cymbopogon citratus 6. Calotropis procera 7. Tridax procumbens 8. p

15 | Page

b. FAUNAL DIVERSITY OF THE STUDY AREA Table No. - 3.20 INVENTORY OF FAUNAL DIVERSITY IN THE STUDY AREA Based on Actual Sighting, based on inputs from locals and Perused from Secondary Literature

Status S. Scientific name Common name accordin Core Buffer No. g to Mammals 1. Pteropus giganteus Indian flying Sch. V - + fox 2. Canis aureus Jackal Sch. II + + 3. Vulpes bengalensis Common fox Sch. II + + 4. Suncus murinus Grey Musk Sch. V + + IndianSh e Sch. V - + 5. Mus booduga F 6. Tatera indica Indian Gerbil Sch. V + + Funambulus pennanti Five Striped Sch. IV + + 7. Palm Squirrel 8. Boselaphus Sch.III - + tragocamelus 9. Felis chaus Jungle cat Sch. II - + Herpestes edwardsii Common Sch. II + + 10. Mongoose 11. Presbytis entellus Common Sch. II - + 12. Macaca radiata BonnetLangur Sch. II - + 13. Lepus nigricollis Indian haree Sch. IV - + 14. Bos taurus Cow - - + 15. Bubalus arnee Buffalo - - + 16. Ovis aries Sheep - - + 17. Capra aegagrus hircus Goat - - + 18. Sus scrofa domesticus Domestic pig - - + Reptiles 1. Vipera russelli Russell's viper Sch. II - + 2. Eryx johnii Red sand Boa Sch. IV + + 3. Naja naja Kobra Sch. II - + 4. Varanus bengalensis Monitor lizard Sch. I - + Ophisops jerdoni Snake-Eyed - - + 5. Lacerta Bungarus caeruleus Common Sch. II - + 6. In Hemidactylus House - + + 7. flaviviridis Gecko/Chhipkali 8. Geoemyla trijuga Pond Turtle Sch. IV - +

16 | Page

Calotes versicolor Common - + + 9. Garden Mabuya carinata Brahminy - + + 10. Sk Amphibians Tomopterna breviceps Indian - - + 1. Burrowing 2. Rana tigrina Bull Frog Sch. IV - + Duttaphrynus Common Sch. IV 3. - + melanostictus In 4. Euphlyctis Skittering Frog - - + cyanophlyctis 5. Rana limnocharis Indian cricket Sch. IV - + Fog Butterfly and Arthropods 1. Danaus chrysippus Plain Tiger + + 2. Papilio polytes Common mormon - + 3. Ixias pyrene Yellow orange tip + + 4. Junonia orithya Blue pansy - + 5. Chilades parrhassius Small cupid + + 6. Belenois aurota aurota Pioneer - + 7. Ixias marianne White orange tip + + 8. Catopsilia pomona Common emigrant + + 9. Mottled Emigrant - + 10. Eurema brigitta Small grass yellow - + 11. Tarucus nara Nara butterfly - + 12. Vanessa cardui Painted lady - + 13. Hypolimnas bolina Great Eggfly - + 14. Euploea core Common crow butterfly - + 15. Parantica aglea Glassy tiger - + 16. Lime butterfly - + 17. Apis cerana indica Choti Madhumakkhi - + 18. Periplaneta americana Cockroach - + 19. Buthus sp. Scorpion + + 20. Apis dorsata Badi Madhumakkhi + + 21. Diplacodes trivialis Ground skimmer dragonfly + + 22. Sternocera Jewel Beetle + + 23. Stegodyphussternicornis sp. Social Spider + + Source: Field Survey (+) Shows: Presence of the species in the Core and Buffer Zone (-) Shows: Absence of the species in the Core and Buffer Zone Analysis of Fauna  Monitor lizard (Varanus bengalensis) was recorded in the study area during field survey; which comes in Schedule-I according to Indian Protection Act (IWPA), 1972. ` 17 | Page

 Conservation plan for Monitor Lizard has been prepared and annexed with this report as Annexure- V.  Photographs showing faunal diversity found in the study area are shown below in photoplates.

1

2 3

4 5

6 Figure 3.21: FAUNAL DIVERSITY

18 | Page

Legends to Photographs 1. Indian bull frog (Rana tigrina) 2. Mongoose (Herpestes edwardsii) 3. Garden lizard (Calotes versicolor) 4. Pond turtle (Geoemyla trijuga) 5. Monitor lizard (Varanus bengalensis) 6. Ground skimmer dragonfly (Diplacodes trivialis)

1 2

3 4

5

Figure 3.22: BUTTERFLY DIVERSITY Legends to Photographs 1. Painted lady (Vanessa cardui) 2. Blue pansy (Junonia orithiya) 3. Plain tiger butterfly (Danaus chrysippus) 4. Great Eggfly (Hypolimnas bolina) 5. Common emigrant (Catopsilia Pomona)

19 | Page

c. Avifaunal diversity in the study area Table No. - 3.21 INVENTORY OF AVIFAUNAL DIVERSITY IN STUDY AREA Based on Actual Sighting, based on inputs from locals and Perused from Secondary Literature

S. No. Scientific Name Common Name Status according to IWPA'1972 1. Pavo cristatus Peafowl Schedule I 2. Milvus migrans Black kite Schedule IV 3. Streptopelia decaocto Eurasian collared dove Schedule IV 4. Merops orientalis Green bee-eater Schedule IV 5. Elanus axillaris Black-shouldered Kite Schedule IV 6. Vanellus indicus Red-wattled lapwing Schedule IV 7. Ploceus philippinus Baya weaver Schedule IV 8. Himantopus himantopus Black winged Stilt Schedule IV 9. Columba livia Blue Rock pigeon Schedule IV 10. Ardeola grayii Indian Pond Heron Schedule IV 11. Ardea cinerea Grey Heron Schedule IV 12. Upupa epops Common hoopoe Schedule IV 13. Halcyon smyrnensis White-throated kingfisher Schedule IV 14. Passer domesticus House sparrow Schedule IV 15. Saxicoloides fulicata Indian robin Schedule IV 16. Copsychus saularis Oriental magpie robin Schedule IV 17. Psittacula krameri Rose-ringed parakeet Schedule IV 18. Corvus macrorhynchos Jungle crow Schedule V 19. Acridotheres ginginianus Bank myna Schedule IV 20. Turdoides striatus Jungle babbler Schedule IV 21. Egretta garzetta Little egret Schedule IV 22. Bubulcus ibis Cattle egret Schedule IV 23. Sturnus pagodarum Brahminy starling Schedule IV 24. Acridotheres tristis Common myna Schedule IV 25. Hirundo rustica Common swallow Schedule IV 26. Corvus splendens House crow Schedule V 27. Pycnonotus cafer Red-vented bulbul Schedule IV 28. Microcarbo niger Little cormorant Schedule IV 29. Tachybaptus ruficollis Little grebe Schedule IV 30. Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus Black necked stork Schedule IV 31. Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper Schedule IV 32. Philomachus pugnax Ruff Schedule IV

20 | Page

33. Dendrocitta vagabunda Rufous tree pie Schedule IV

S. No. Scientific Name Common Name Status according to IWPA'1972 34. Streptopelia senegalensis Laughing dove Schedule IV 35. Motacilla maderaspatensis White-browed wagtail Schedule IV 36. Apus affinis House swift Schedule IV 37. Prinia socialis Ashy prinia Schedule IV 38. Dicrurus macrocercus Black drongo Schedule IV 39. Tadorna ferruginea Ruddy shelduck Schedule IV 40. Anastomus oscitans Asian openbill stork Schedule IV 41. Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus Black necked stork Schedule IV 42. Coracias benghalensis Indian Roller Schedule IV 43. Gallinula chloropus Common moorhen Schedule IV 44. Porphyrio Porphyrio Purple swamphen Schedule IV 45. Amaurornis phoenicurus White- breasted water hen Schedule IV 46. Saxicola caprata Pied Bush chat Schedule IV 47. Cercomela fusca Brown rock chat Schedule IV 48. Accipiter badius Shikra Schedule IV 49. Neophron percnopterus Egyptian vulture Schedule IV Source: Field Survey Analysis of Fauna  Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) was recorded in the study area during field survey which comes in Schedule-I according to Indian Wildlife Protection Act (IWPA), 1972.  Conservation plan for Monitor Lizard has been prepared and annexed with this report

21 | Page

1 2

3 4

5 6

7

Legends to Photographs 1. Pavo cristatus 2. Streptopelia decaocto 3. Bubulcus ibis 4. Halcyon smyrnensis 5. Amaurornis phoenicurus 6. Dendrocitta vagabunda 7. Gallinula chloropus

Figure 3.23: AVI- FAUNAL DIVERSITY 22 | Page

1 2

3 4

5 6

7

Figure 3.24: AVI- FAUNAL DIVERSITY Legends to Photographs 1. Turdoides striata 2. Acridotheres tristis 3. Vanellus indicus 4. Coracias benghalensis 5. Prinia socialis 6. Actitis hypoleucos 7. Himantopus himantopus

23 | Page

1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

Figure 3.25: AVI- FAUNAL DIVERSITY Legends to Photographs 1. Upupa epops 2. Ploceus philippinus 3. Accipiter badius 4. Merops orientali 5. Hirundo rustica 6. Anastomus oscitans 7. Tadorna ferruginea

24 | Page

8. Neophron percnopterus d. Aquatic diversity in the study area Fresh water Ichthyofauna is not very diverse in the buffer area due to no major water bodies. Hence, there is no source of fish. But due to demand of fish meat, some fish species could be s ight e d i n f is h m ark et fr om ot he r r ive r s our c es. Some aquatic weeds are found to be growing around water bodies in monsoon season within 10 km radius in every water bog, pond etc. Typha angustata, Pistia and Trapa can be found growing all along the drains of villages, small waterlogged depressions, along the agricultural fields that lacks water but contains enough moisture to support its growth. iii. Quadrat Sampling Nested quadrate technique was used for sampling the vegetation. Sampling quadrats of regular shape of dimensions 10 × 10 m, 5 × 5 m and 1 × 1 m, were nested within each other and were defined as the units for sampling the area and measuring the diversity for trees, shrubs and herbs respectively.

Nested Quadrat sampling plots

The study area was divided into three study zones on the basis of disturbance gradient i.e. highly disturbed (HD) area, moderately disturbed (MoD) area, and mildly disturbed (MiD) area decided on the basis of direction of winds prevailing the area and the proximity to the mining industry, for studying the status of plant diversity, community structures, soil condition and productivity of herbaceous species of the study area. The quadrats were laid randomly in the areas of three study zones and individual species were counted using the method of Singh and Yadav (1974).

The vegetation data collected for phyto-sociology information were quantitatively analyzed for density, frequency, and abundance of tree species, shrubs and herbs species as per Curtis and McIntosh (1950). The relative value of frequency, density and dominance of all species were summed up to represent Importance value Index (IVI). Following are the formulae to derive frequency, density, dominance, IVI etc

25 | Page

Abundance = Total number of individuals of a species in all quadrats Total number of quadrats in which the species occurred

Frequency = Number of quadrats in which the species occurred Total number of quadrats studied

Density = Total number of individuals of a species in all quadrats Total number of quadrats studied Dominance = Basal area = rrr2 where r is radius (diameter/2) Relative frequency = Frequency of the species X 100 Total frequency of all species

Relative density = Density of the species X 100 Total density of all species

Relative dominance = Basal area of a species X 100 Total basal area of all species Importance Value Index (IVI) = Relative Density + Relative Frequency + Relative Dominance. 1. Sampling results of Nagla Jatwansi, Nagla Pachhandra, Richhola, Nagla Hansraj and Nagla Mirzapur villages, which lies in highly disturbed zone are as under: Table 3.22

Quadrat Species Relative Relative Relative Relativ IVI abundanc dominanc frequenc e Acacia nilotica 7.59 14.29 9.57 7.46 38.91

Holoptelea integrifolia 6.29 21.35 11.59 7.14 46.37 10 X 10 m Acacia (Trees) leucophloea 7.57 10.68 6.67 7.14 32.06 Pongamia pinnata 8.27 13.72 6.89 7.42 36.3 Lantana 1.72 4.69 7.65 6.38 20.44 5 X 5 m Ipomeaaaa 5.1 5.05 9.08 8.76 27.99 carnea (Shrubs) Ziziphus nummularia 3.88 6.69 9.36 10.48 30.41 Cassia tora 9.25 3.09 5.56 4.26 22.16 Tridax 1 X 1 m procumbens 7.53 3.01 5.56 8.51 24.61 (Herbs) Tephrosia purpurea 4.69 2.05 7.76 6.25 20.75

26 | Page

Based on Importance Value Index, it was found that Holoptelea integrifolia tree is the most dominant species in the area. Also, Ziziphus nummularia and Tridax procumbens were the dominant species in the shrubs and herbs respectively. The dominant species in chronological order based on IVI values are as under: Holoptelea integrifolia > Acacia nilotica > Pongamia pinnata > Acacia leucophloea > Ziziphus nummularia > Ipomea carnea > Lantana camara > Tridax procumbens > Cassia tora > Tephrosia purpurea. 2. Sampling results of Daulatgarh, Ajitpura, Rudawal, Sirrond and Banpur village area, which lies in moderately disturbed zone are as under:

Relative Relative Relative Relative Quadrat Species IVI abundance dominance frequency density

Acacia nilotica 7.44 9.69 5.78 6.73 29.64 10 X 10 m Butea 11.29 16.04 8.56 7.96 43.85 (Trees) Acaciaoo e a 6.01 8.52 5.12 5.03 24.68 leucophloea

Holoptelea 8.51 11.59 7.92 8.23 36.25 integrifolia Pongamia 6.89 5.55 4.85 4.42 21.71 pinnata Ziziphus 5.67 1.26 4.81 6.78 18.52 nummularia 5 X 5 m (Shrubs) Lantana 4.59 0.09 4.86 5.82 15.36 camara Ipomoea 3.66 2.73 4.67 5.92 16.98 carnea Prosopis 7.59 4.87 6.67 5.76 24.89 juliflora Ziziphus 4.59 2.73 3.69 3.92 14.93 mauritiana

Parthenium 1.95 0.09 3.68 2.98 8.7 hysterophous 1 X 1 m Cynodon 2.84 0.81 3.14 3.82 10.61 (Herbs) dactylon

Tridax 3.59 0.95 4.66 5.89 15.09 procumbens

Cassia tora 4.56 1.09 5.87 6.88 18.4

Based on Importance Value Index, it was found that Butea monosperma tree is the most dominant species in the area. Also, Prosopis juliflora and Cassia tora were the dominant species in the shrubs and herbs respectively. The dominant species in chronological orders based on IVI values are as under: Butea monosperma > Holoptelea integrifolia > Acacia nilotica > Acacia leucophloea > Pongamia pinnata 27 | Page

> Prosopis juliflora > Ziziphus nummularia > Ipomoea carnea > Lantana camara > Ziziphus mauritiana > Cassia tora > Tridax procumbens > Cynodon dactylon > Parthenium hysterophous. 3. Sampling results of Jagnair, Khorpara, Rupbas, Badanpur and Tontpur village area, which lies in mildly disturbed zone are as under:

Quadrat Species Relative Relative Relative Relative IVI abundan dominan frequency density Pongamia pinnata 10.15 22.58 9.58 6.8 49.2 10 X 10 m 9 Holoptelea 9.8 21.93 9.19 6.73 47.6 (Trees) Buteaintegrifolia monosperma 8.49 10.89 7.52 8.5 35.45 3 3 Acacia nilotica 7.59 8.59 5.76 4.9 26.9 Ziziphus nummularia 6.26 2.21 4.49 7.598 20.52 5 X 5 m 5 Lantana camara 6.11 2.16 5.59 6.15 20.0 (Shrubs) Ipomoea carnea 3.99 2.86 4.59 5.4 16.91 9 3 Prosopis juliflora 8.16 5.96 7.59 6.9 28.6 5 6 Tridax procumbens 3.52 0.91 5.61 5.82 15.8 6 1 X 1 m Cynodon dactylon 2.49 0.92 4.72 4.33 12.4 (Herbs) Abultilon indicum 4.42 1.16 5.43 6.4 17.56 9 Tephrosia purpurea 2.56 0.08 3.67 2.52 8.8 3

28 | Page

Based on Importance Value Index, it was found that Pongamia pinnata tree is the most dominant species in the area. Also, Prosopis juliflora and Tridax procumbens were the dominant species in the shrubs and herbs respectively. The dominant species in chronological orders based on IVI values are as under: Paongamia pinnata > Holoptelea integrifolia > Butea monosperma > Acacia nilotica > Prosopis juliflora > Ziziphus nummularia > Lantana camara > Ipomoea carnea > Tridax procumbens > Cynodon dactylon > Abultilon indicum > Tephrosia purpurea. iv. Cropping pattern of the area The entire study area is having hilly topography. is the most vital sector of the economy of our country. Major soil type of the area is Alluvial, medium & Deep Brown Loamy, Deep dark brown sandy, Red gravelly loam hilly soils. The main crops of the area are as follows: Rabi Season: Wheat, Pulses, Oilseeds, Bengal gram, Lathyrus etc. are grown. Kharif Season: Paddy, Jowar, Bajra, Maize, Sesame, Black gram, Green gram, Pigeon pea etc. are grown. & Vegetables: The following fruit plants and Vegetables are growing in the area i.e. Mango, Guava, Banana, Papaya, Plum, Lemon and Brinjal, Tomato, Potato, Cauliflower, Lady Finger, Cluster beans, Cabbage, Onion and spices etc.

29 | Page

1 2

3 4

5 6

Figure 3.26: AGRO DIVERSITY Legends to Photographs 1. Paddy cultivation (Oryza sativa) 2. Jowar (Sorghum vulgare) 3. Sesame (Sesamum indicum) 4. Bajra (Pennisetum typhoides) 5. Round gourd (Benincasa fistulosa) 6. Clusterbeans (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba)

30 | Page

v. Evaluation of and plantation A. Greenbelt Management  Purpose Greenbelt is created not only for the purpose of protecting sensitive areas or to maintain ecological balance but because it also acts as an efficient biological filter or sink for particulate and gaseous emissions generated by vehicular movements and various industrial activities. Greenbelt Development provides an important tool to address the issue of mitigating the adverse effects of industrial, mining and projects. Greenbelts are recommended for containment and abatement of in urban-industrial environment. Optimally designed green belts can be effective in reducing the impact of fugitive emission and pollutants accidentally or otherwise released at ground levels.  Existing Status The existing mine has some green cover developed by company in the lease area. The area has good green canopy of Neem & Karanj forest and total mining lease area is surrounded by these forests. Massive plantation has been done in the mining lease area. Neem (Azadirachta indica), Mango (Mangifera indica), Amla (Phyllanthus emblica), Guava (Psidium guajava), Lemon (Citrus limon), Karanj (Pongamia pinnata), Imli (Tamarindus indica), Khejri (Prosopis cineraria), Gulmohar (Delonix regia), Amaltas (Cassia fistula), Banyan (Ficus benghalensis), Babool (Acacia nilotica) are tree species observed in the mine area. Table No.: 3.23 EXISTING SPECIES BREAK- UP IN CORE AREA

S. Species No. of individuals planted Character No s 1. Polyalthia longifolia 16 E, C 2 Mangifera indica 20 NE, R 3. Phyllanthus emblica 20 NE, O 4 Psidium guajava 20 E, R 5. Casurina equisetifolia 16 NE, C 6 Prosopis cinereria 19 NE, O 7. Acacia nilotica 25 NE, O 8 Ailanthus excelsa 15 E, O 9 Holoptelea integrifolia 19 E, R 1 Pongamia pinnata 17 N, R 10 Tamarindus indica 20 N, R 1 Terminalia arjuna 16 E, O 2 1 Delonix regia 20 E, O 3 14. Cassia fistula 25 E, R 1 Azadirachta indica 20 E, O, R 15 Citrus limon 20 E, R 16 Other species Approx 100 - 7 **E=Evergreen, NE- Non evergreen

31 | Page

O= Oblong; R = Round; S= Spreading; C= Conical  Design of Green Belt The present plan comprises the details on field investigations, choice of plant species for greenbelt development as per CPCB guidelines, areas identified for development under greenbelt, feasibility in implementation, and development of for identifying the feasibility of greenbelt development activities within mine lease area. A detailed survey was conducted with respect to existing vegetation diversity and density etc in and around the mine lease area for development of greenbelt and plantation. The greenbelt development plan has been formulated considering the parameters such as climate, soil types, topography etc. a. Characteristic features of plants to be used for Absorption of pollutant gases  Plant species should be perennial and evergreen with thick canopy cover  The crown of tree (mass of foliage/leaves and branches growing outward from the trunk of the tree) should be either Oblong, Round or Spreading for effective absorption of pollutant gases.

Crown (Canopy Shapes) of trees for plantation  Plant should have foliage of longer duration.  The foliage should be freely exposed through: Adequate height of crown, Openness of foliage/leaves in canopy, Big leaves (long and broad laminar surfaces). b. Plantation technique The plant species should be planted using pitting technique. The pit size should be 45cm X 45cm X 45cm for Shrubs and 70cm X 70cm X 70cm for trees. Soil used for filling the pit should be mixed with well decomposed Farmyard Manure (FYM) or Sewage sludge at the rate of 2.5 kg (on dry weight basis) and 4 kg (on dry weight basis) for shrubs and trees respectively. The filling of soil should be completed at least a week before actual plantation. The pits measuring 70cm X 70cm X 70cm for trees are to be dug up at desired points in triangular pattern. For planting tall shrubs and dwarf trees 4.5m spacing between the plant rows is sufficient while medium and tall trees in middle and rear rows are to be planted 6-7m and 8-10m apart respectively depending upon the space available. c. Three Tier System for Plantation Close planting keeping dwarf trees with round canopy exposed to the source of emission followed by medium and tall trees with cylindrical canopy is ideal for the present situation.

32 | Page

Planting of trees in staggering arrangement in multiple rows across the direction of the wind in recommended for better trapping and absorption of pollutants. Trees of front row acts as absorptive layer while core area (rear rows) cleans the air. The width of outer area of the plantation should be 3-4 times wider than the core area depending upon the availability of the space. Though, the study area harbors good diversity; some species for green belt development are suggested, which are summarized as below: Table No.: 3.24 LIST OF PLANT SPECIES PROPOSED FOR GREENBELT DEVELOPMENT

S. No. Botanical name Local name 1. Azadirachta indica Neem 2. Cassia fistula Amaltas 3. Mangifera indica Mango 4. Ficus hispida Hairy fig 5. Delonix regia Gulmohar 6. Polyalthia longifolia Ashok 7. Saraca asoca Site Ashok 8. Holoptelea integrifolia Indian Elm tree (Papri) 9. Pongamia pinnata Karanj 10. Hardwickia binata Anjan 11. Artocarpus heterophyllus Jackfruit 12. Phyllanthus emblica Amla 13. Psidium guajava Guava 14. Prosopis cinereria Khejri 15. Albizia spp. Siris 16. Syzygium cumini Jamun 17. Citrus limon Lemon 18. Morus alba Mulberry 19. Nerium indicum Kaner 20. Cestrum nocturnum Night blooming Jasmine

33 | Page

Table No.: 3.25 SPECIES SUITABLE FOR ABATEMENT OF NOISE AND DUST POLLUTION

S. No. Botanical name Common name 1. Azadirachta indica Neem 2. Ficus religiosa Peepal 3. Ficus hispida Hairy fig 4. Bombax ceiba Kapok 5. Bauhinia variegata Kachnar 6. Syzygium cumini Jamun 7. Tamarindus indica Imli 8. Holoptelea integrifolia Indian Elm tree (Papri) 9. Pongamia pinnata Karanj 10. Terminalia arjuna Arjun 11. Ficus glomerata Gular 12. Cassia Fistula Amaltas 13. Delonix regia Gulmohar 14. Harwickia binata Anjan 15. Mangifera indica Mango

B. Roadside Plantation Automobiles are considered as ground level, mobile source of pollution of both types- gaseous as well as particulate. Components of greenbelt on roadside hence should be both absorbers of gases as well as of dust particles, including even lead . Choice of plants for roadside plantation is for containment of pollution. The plant species for road side plantation has shrubs of height 1 to 1.5 m and trees of height 3 to 5 m. The intermixing of trees and shrubs should be such that the foliage area density in vertical is almost uniform. An ideal design for roadside greenbelt development as suggested by CPCB is given below:

Typical Roadside plantation technique given by CPCB

34 | Page BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESMENT REPORT

Table No.: 3.26 LIST OF PLANT SPECIES SUGGESTED FOR ROADSIDE PLANTATION

S. Botanical name Tree/Shrub No 1. Acacia auriculiformis Tree 2 Albizia spp. Tree 3. Albizia amara Tree 4 Azadirachta indica Tree 5. Alstonia scholaris Tree 6 Bauhinia variegata Tree 7. Cassia fistula Tree 8 Holoptelea integrifolia Tree 9 Pongamia pinnata Tree 10. Cordia dichotoma Tree 1 Delonix regia Tree 12.1 Polyalthia longifolia Tree 13. sesban Tree 14. Tamarindus indica Tree 15. Thespesia populnea Tree 16. Achras sapota Shrub 17. Annona squamosa Shrub 18. Parkinsonia aculeata Small Tree 19. Carissa carandas Shrub 20. Cestrum nocturnum Shrub 21. Ziziphus mauritiana Shrub 22. Phyllanthus emblica Amla 23. Mangifera indica Aam 24. Ficus hispida Fig tree 25. Artocarpus heterophyllus Jack fuit 26. Psidium guajava Guava 27. Prosopis cineraria Khejri 28. Syzygium cumini Jamun 29. Citrus limon Lemon 30. Morus alba Shahtoot 31. Nerium indicum Kaner The above suggested list covers fast growing species with thick canopy cover, perennial green nature, native origin and a large leaf area index. The proposed species will help in forming an effective barrier between the mines and the surroundings. These species need to be planted in and around the premises to absorb fugitive emissions and noise levels from in and around the mine lease area. All the open spaces, where tree plantation may not be possible, should be covered with shrubs and grass to prevent of topsoil.

35 | Page BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESMENT REPORT

Some of the important aspects to be considered are: a. Planting of trees in each row will be in staggered orientation. b. In the front row, shrubs will be grown. c. Since the trunks of the tall trees are generally devoid of foliage, it will be useful to have shrubs in front of the trees so as to give coverage to this portion. d. The spacing between the trees will be maintained slightly less than the normal spaces, so that the trees may grow vertically and slightly increase the effective height of the green belt. e. The species selected should be of local origin and should be able to produce optimum harvest on a sustained basis for example trees like Indian Elm Tree (Papri), Holoptelea integrifolia, Karanj (Pongamia pinnata), Banyan (Ficus bengalensis), Jack Fruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), Mango (Mangifera indica), Ashok (Polyalthia longifolia), Imli (Tamarindus indica). f. The leaf litter should decompose quickly thus adding organic matter to the soil tree like Mango (Mangifera indica), Guava (Psidium guajava), Amla (Phyllanthus emblica) and Neem (Azadirachta indica) are suitable for the purpose. g. The morphological characters of the species must suit the objectives of plantation and the cultivation practice; e.g. a wide crown (canopy shapes) may be preferred for dust capturing and fuel wood plantation but small-narrow crown with minimum effect on agriculture crop and providing valuable wood. VII. IMPACTS ON BIODIVERSITY

There are no direct or indirect evidence of presence of any major wildlife in the core and buffer areas of expansion of Milnstone production capacity from 1093 TPA to 15 million TPA. The area does not fall in any part of National or Wildlife sanctuary and though there are 11 protected and reserve forests. However, speculations on the likely impact of the mining activity on the movement of some resident faunal species need be examined and addressed. Due to operation of existing mine; there seems to be little impact on the surrounding biodiversity as proper mitigation measures are taken up to control fugitive and other emission. Also green belt/plantation has done in and around the mine lease area. Mitigation measures as per CPCB guidelines will be adopted to reduce impact after expansion of the mining production capacity. Increasing anthropogenic pressure on forest over the few decades has led to vast exploitation of natural flora. Anthropogenic disturbances play an important role in change, loss or maintenance of plant biodiversity and more recent phenomenon of will also be responsible for the change in species composition and other ecosystem activities. The anthropogenic disturbances occur in form of grazing, browsing, lopping of tree for fuel wood and fodder, fire, etc. Both natural and human caused disturbances are considered since vegetation responses do not distinguish between natural and human activities. These biotic pressures play an important role in forest community dynamics and regulate the regeneration ability of a species. The human influence on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning have largely taken in the form of rapid, large and frequent changes in land and resource use, increased frequency of biotic invasion, reduction in species number, creation of stresses and the potential for changes in climatic systems. Such changes have a direct impact through destruction and over- exploitation of resources such as and indirect

36 | Page BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESMENT REPORT

impact through their impact on the composition of the atmospher and climate. VIII. MANAGEMENT & CONSERVATION MEASURES FOR BIODIVERSITY

It is an irrefutable scientific fact that there cannot be any developmental or industrial and mining activity which is completely devoid of causing any environmental impact. Cement and mining sectors too are no exception to that. However, it is also a fact that environment is a dynamic entity and has a built-in self renewal process that can level the extrinsic impact within reasonable limits. Moreover, biodiversity is a resilient entity of the environment and can tolerate impacts and recuperate if their renewal mechanisms are unaffected over a long period of time. Therefore focus should be laid on ensuring that the renewal dynamics of various floral and faunal taxa is not impeded by the mining Industry. A total area of 33% will be developed under greenbelt development/ plantation in and all around the mine site. The improvement in agricultural production will also increase the vegetal cover. This coupled with Greenbelt development/ plantation is a favourable and eco-friendly measure to reduce the impact of the proposed capacity enhancement of mine on the biodiversity of the area. The species planted so far are Azadirachta indica (Neem), Syzygium cumini (Jamun), Terminalia arjuna (Arjun), Cassia fistula (Amaltas), Holoptelea integrifolia (Papri), Pongamia pinnata (Karanj), Delonix regia (Gulmohar), Ficus spp. (Bargad, hairy fig), Mangifera indica (Mango), Phyllanthus emblica (Amla), Psidium guajava (Amrud) etc. The plant species will be selected as per CPCB guidelines. Adequate measures are being/ adopted as a part of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to prevent entrainment of fugitive dust emissions. Thus, adverse impacts due to fugitive emissions are not expected to be significant. This requires sensitization of all levels of stakeholders involved in the process of development to realize the importance of biodiversity and the role biodiversity in maintaining an ecological balance. Practically this can be achieved by: 1. Inviting locals for participatory management & conservation of local biodiversity through training programs linking biodiversity to livelihood. 2. Scaling up the Green Belt development in and around the mine lease area. 3. Controlling the fugitive emissions and other airborne pollutants by appropriate technology at point source. 4. Adherence to the strategies outlined in the EMP. 5. Water sprinkler would be used on connecting road for transportation of material in operation phase to control fugitive emission in surrounding environment. 6. Paved road would be use for transportation to minimize fugitive emission. 7. Transported material and place of store of raw material will be well covered. 8. Transport vehicles and machinery would be properly maintained and periodically check pollution level to reduce noise level and gaseous emission in surrounding environment. 9. Emission of particulate matter during operation phase will be controlled at source by using particulate matter control devices as per CPCB guidelines. 10. Create a live hedge of sturdy woody shrubs along the periphery of mine that would restrict the wildlife to enter into mine site. Closely packed Azadirachta indica, Cassia fistula, Delonix regia, Opuntia, Ziziphus would be used around plant site boundary.

37 | Page BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESMENT REPORT

IX. CONCLUSION

1. Before detailing the study area, a cursory understanding of the state scenario was prudent. The biodiversity of this region is largely related to the Arid to Extremely arid habitat. Mill stone was found in hilly terrain located in this area. 2. The entire study area (Terrestrial and Aquatic) was covered in the best possible manner of the area were also visited. To enlist the flora, fauna and avifauna (terrestrial and aquatic), nocturnal and insect study was carried out as per objective of visit. 3. The Vegetation in core and buffer zone is very poor and sparsely located. The air borne emission (although under control as per mining plan) will not affect forest growth due to enough distance and wind direction. 4. The area is almost undulating slope hilly terrain; somewhere is plain.

6. Raising of plantation with suitable indigenous species will improve the environment.

7. The whole study area surrounded by village and no forests area, mostly seasonal water bodies, some perennial water body. No endangered, endemic and rare species were observed; only presence of small mammalian wildlife was noted in the study area, with cattle being (Cow, Sheep, Goat, Camel etc.) the omnipresent ones, indicating the presence of natural habitat or land sustaining wild species. Agriculture is diversified as entire study area full of Bajra, Sesame and Round gourd vegetable field. Grain eating birds like crow, sparrow and pigeon, Indian robin were sighted in good numbers showing the pollination of angiospermic plants. Bajra, Jowar, Sesame, Cotton, Castor, Groundnut and Pulses & Oil seeds are some others crops present in the study area. 8. Amongst Holoptelea integrifolia (Papri), Pongamia pinnata (Karanj) and Tephrosia purpurea (Jhojhru) are the dominant. A few number of angiosperms indicated by the good numbers of bees and their hives, but supplemented by the few numbers of (butterfly, insects etc.) shows the balanced nature of ecosystem in the study area. The scarce presence of the invasive plant species likes Parthenium hysterophorus, Datura metal and Lantana camara & grass species indicates the good health of the ecosystem. 9. The emission from the mine with the increased capacity will have no adverse effect on the biodiversity of the area. As proper mitigation measures will be adopted as per CPCB guidelines to reduce the impact. 10. Design & Development of greenbelt needs to be done with spreading and round canopy, Fruit bearing, local and resilient plant species like Papri, Karanj, Ficus,

38 | Page BIODIVERSITY IMPACT ASSESMENT REPORT

Gulmohar, Amaltas, Neem, Arjun, Teak, Khejri, Mango, Jamun, Jackfruit, Amla, Guava, and some fuel wood tree spp. etc. These will reduce noise and air pollution impacts by attenuation/assimilation and absorption. Also, aesthetic beauty of the area will be enhanced that will attract birds and insects species and by this way. Ecology of the area will maintain to maximum possible extent. 11. For developing greenbelt in and around mine site, care shall be taken to plant evergreen species like Azadirachta indica, Delonix regia, Cassia fistula, Tamarindus indica, Pongamia pinnata, Holoptelea integrifolia, Mangifera indica, Syzygium cumini, Achras sapota, Zizyphus spp. etc. Planting of such trees will support foliage and thus protection all around the year.

11. Survival rate of the planted trees shall be closely monitored and the trees which could not survive shall be counted. Equal number of trees shall be replaced and their survival shall be closely monitored . ****

39 | Page