Terms of Reference for Envirnmetal Impact

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APPENDIX I (See paragraph - 6) FORM 1 (I) Basic Information

SN Contents 1 Name of Project : Mining of Soapstone at Village-Bamdoli , Tehsil-Didihat, Dist- Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand with an area 4.203ha. 2 S No. in Schedule : 1(a) 3 Proposed capacity/ area/ length/ tonnage to be : Total Recoverable Quantity of Soapstone– handled/ command area/ lease area/ number of wells 4499 Tonnes/Annum ML (As per approved to be drilled Mining Scheme) Area Approved of Mining : 4.203Ha Lease Period : 20 Years Consent of Mining Lease: The LOI vide letter no. 287(1) /VII-1-10/94-Kha (T.C)/2004 was issued for mine lease period of 20 years. Approved Mining Scheme: The present scheme of mining is approved on 614(2)/MP-B- 301/10-DDN dated 05-10-2010 for 5 years period. 4 New/ Expansion/ Modernization : Existing Mine 5 Existing Capacity/ Area etc. : 4.203Ha 6 Category of Project i.e. ‘A’ or ‘B’ : ‘B’ 7 Does it attract the general condition? If yes, please : No specify 8 Does it attract the specific condition? If yes, please : No specify 9 Location : - Village Bamdoli Tehsil Didihat District Pithoragarh State Uttarakhand 10 Nearest Railway station/ airport along with distance : Railway station : Kathgodam, 218km in KM Nearest Airport :Pantnagar, 248 Km 11 Nearest Town, city, District Headquarters along with : Town: Pithoragarh 31.0 Km distance in Kms. City : Pithoragarh, 31.0 Km Dist. Headquarter:Pithoragarh,31.0 km 12 Village Panchayats, ZillaParishad, Municipal : Gram Panchayat:Bamdoli Corporation, Local body (complete postal addresses Zila Parishad: Pithoragarh with telephone nos. to be given) Municipal Corporation: Didihat 13 Name of the Applicant : Shri Manoj Sahni 14 Registered Address : R/O Punetha bhawan ,Ghantakara, District- Pithoragarh,Uttarakhand

15 Address for correspondence : Name Shri Manoj sahni Designation (Owner/Partner/CEO) Owner Address Punetha bhawan ,Ghantakara, District- Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand Pin Code -- 16 Details of Alternative sites examined, if any. Location : Mining is a site specific activity. The area has of these sites should be shown on a topo sheet been examined by IBM and approved for mining 17 Interlinked Projects : None 1

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18 Whether separate application of interlinked project : Not applicable has been submitted? 19 If yes, date of submission : Not applicable 20 If no, reason : Not applicable 21 Whether the proposal involves approval/ clearance : under: If yes, details of their status to be given a) The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980? No b) The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972? No c) The CRZ Notification, 1991? No 22 Whether there is any Govt. order / Policy relevant/ : The LOI vide letter no. 287(1) /VII-1-10/94-Kha relating to the site? (T.C)/2004 was issued for mine lease period of 20 years. 23 Forest land involved (hectares) : No 24 Whether there is any litigation pending against : No project and / or land in which the project is proposed to be set up? a) Name of Court b) Case No. c) Orders/ directions of the Court, if any and its relevance with the proposed project. 25 Location /site under consideration : Geographically location of mine lease area is between Latitude 29°43’5.70” N to 29°43’5.80” N and Longitude 80°11’56.60” E to 80°11’56.70”E , covered under SOI Toposheet No. 62 C/2, scale 1:50,000. Location Map of project site is enclosed as (Annexure-I). 26 Size of the Project : 4499 tonnes per annum (maximum) mine lease area 4.203Ha. 27 Expected cost of the project : Rs. 21 lakhs 28 Contact Information : Shri Manoj sahni Owner R/o Punetha bhagwan ,Ghantakara, District- Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand 29 Screening Category : Category ‘B2’  Capacity corresponding to sectoral activity (such as production capacity for manufacturing, mining lease area and production capacity for mineral production, area for mineral exploration, length for linear transport infrastructure, generation capacity for power generation etc.,) (II) Activity

1. Construction, operation, or decommissioning of the Project involving actions, which will cause physical changes in the locality (topography, land use, changes in water bodies, etc.):

SN Information/Checklist confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with approximate quantities No / rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 1.1 Permanent or temporary change in land use, No Landuse & Landcover: The proposed lease land cover or topography including increase area is private agricultural land. Boulders of in intensity of land use (with respect to local Soapstone will be broken and the mined out land use plan) land will be reclaimed and subsequently used for agriculture purpose. Topography: The mine lease area lies in between 1441 mRL to 1454.5 mRL on hilly terrain.

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1.2 Clearance of existing land, vegetation and Yes Top soil is present over mining lease area buildings? which will be removed and used for back filling of benches. 1.3 Creation of new land uses? No - 1.4 Pre-construction investigations e.g. bore No - houses, soil testing? 1.5 Construction works? No The opencast manual working does not entail any construction work. However site office, store, drinking water shed & rest shelter are provided. 1.6 Demolition works? No Not Applicable 1.7 Temporary sites used for construction works No Local labor will be deployed for mining work. or Housing of construction workers? 1.8 Above ground buildings, structures or No - earthworks including linear structures, cut and fill or excavations 1.9 Underground works including mining or Yes Mining will be done at 1441 mRL to 1454.5 tunneling. mRL as per the pit location. 1.10 Reclamation works. Yes After completion of mining, the top soil will be used for backfilling of Benches. 1.11 Dredging? No -

1.12 Offshore structures? No -

1.13 Production and manufacturing processes? Yes Saleable production of Soapstone- 4499 tonne per annum (Maximum). The opencast mining process for extraction of soapstone primarily involves excavation of soapstone through use of hand implements like sambal, Shovel, spade, hammer, etc. 1.14 Facilities for storage of goods or materials? Yes Infrastructure for storage of soapstone and dump is adequately available near the mined field. 1.15 Facilities for treatment or disposal of solid Yes During the mining period the waste will be waste or liquid effluents? temporarily dumped near the mining pit in external dumps & it will be secured with retaining walls. After completion of backfilling, the top soil will be spread on the mined out backfilled land. The reclaimed pits and dump area will be made suitable for Agriculture purpose. Domestic effluent will be disposed through eco-friendly Mobile Toilet. Solid waste material viz. Rappers, Plastic Bags, Cloth Pieces etc. will be stored / managed separately during operation phase of the mining. As mules will be utilized for shifting of soapstone from upper reach to road side, therefore the generated dung will be collected separately & used for manuring in Plantation / agricultural purpose. 1.16 Facilities for long term housing of operational No Local workers will be deployed and no workers? housing is proposed. 1.17 New road, rail or sea traffic during Yes Not applicable construction or operation?

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1.18 New road, rail, air, waterborne or other No The existing road is adequate for meeting transport infrastructure including new or additional traffic intensity during operational altered routes and stations, ports, airports. phase of the mine. etc.? 1.19 Closure or diversion of existing transport No No routes or infrastructure leading to changes in traffic movements? 1.20 New or diverted transmission lines or No No pipelines? 1.21 Impoundment, damming, culverting, No Not Applicable realignment or other changes to the hydrology or watercourses or aquifers? 1.22 Stream crossings? No Not applicable

1.23 Abstraction or transfers of water from ground Yes During operational phase of the mine water or surface waters? for drinking purpose shall be taken from water sources in the nearby village. Total demand of water shall be approximately 1.0 KLD. 1.24 Changes in water bodies or the land surface No Due to mining activities no change in the affecting drainage or run-off. nearby water bodies is envisaged. Mining will not be carried out during rainy season. Pits formed due to mining will be backfilled & restoring the periphery of the terrain & maintain drainage pattern of the site. 1.25 Transport of personnel or materials for No Transportation of material and personnel is construction, operation, or decommissioning? not warranted as no construction activity is involved. During the operational phase, the labor / personnel shall arrange for their own means of transport either on foot or by bicycle etc. to reach to the mine site. However excavated mineral during operational phase of mine shall be transported by mule or trucks/tractor trolleys hired on contractual basis. 1.26 Long-term dismantling or decommissioning No -- works? 1.27 Ongoing activity during decommissioning No -- which could have an impact on the environment? 1.28 Influx of people to an area in either No No temporary or permanent influx of people temporarily or permanently? is envisaged. The work will be carried out during day time by deploying local labor, which will come to the work in the lease area and return to their home.

1.29 Introduction of alien species? No Only indigenous species will be planted

1.30 Loss of native species or genetic diversity? No As the mining is restricted to defined stretch only, hence there is no loss of genetic diversity except for some temporary grasses etc. grown during the dry period.

1.31 Any other actions? No --

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2. Use of Natural resources for construction or operation of the Project (such as land, water, materials or energy, especially any resources which are non- renewable or in short supply):

SN Information/checklist confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with approximate No quantities /rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 2.1 Land especially underdeveloped or agricultural Yes The mining area is private agricultural land (ha) land. 2.2 Water (expected) source & competing users) Yes Only 1.0 KLD water will be required for unit: KLD drinking purpose, green belt development, and dust suppression. Source of water will be tap water/natural spring (seasonal nallah) of the nearby area of villages. 2.3 Minerals (MT) Yes Proposed project is for excavation of 4499 tonne per annum (maximum).

2.4 Construction material – stone, aggregates, No - and/soil (expected source –MT) 2.5 Forests and timber (source – MT) No - 2.6 Energy including electricity and fuels (source, No No electricity is required. competing users) Unit: fuel (MT) energy (MW) 2.7 Any other natural resources (use appropriate No - standard units)

3. Use, storage, transport, handling or production of substances or materials, which could be harmful to human health or the environment or raise concerns about actual or perceived risks to human health:

SN Information/Checklist confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with approximate No quantities / rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 3.1 Use of substances or materials, which are No Not applicable hazardous (as per MSIHC rules) to human health or the environment (flora, fauna, and water supplies) 3.2 Changes in occurrence of disease or affect No - disease vectors (e.g. insect or water borne diseases) 3.3 Affect the welfare of people e.g. by changing Yes Project will have a positive effect on the living conditions? welfare of local people by providing direct and indirect employment opportunity. 3.4 Vulnerable groups of people who could be No No hospital, school exists nearby the mine affected by the project e.g. hospital patients, lease area which may get affected. children, the elderly etc., 3.5 Any other causes No -

4. Production of solid wastes during construction or operation or decommissioning (MT/month):

SN Information/Checklist confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with approximate No quantities / rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 4.1 Soil, inter-burden or mine wastes Yes Top soil & Inter-burden are present which will be removed and used for back filling of benches.

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4.2 Municipal waste (domestic and or Yes No municipal waste other than domestic commercial wastes) sewage shall be generated, which shall be disposed eco-friendly mobile toilets. 4.3 Hazardous wastes (as per Hazardous No Mining does not involve production of any Waste Management Rules) kind of hazardous waste 4.4 Other industrial process wastes No No other industrial process wastes will be generated during mining activities. 4.5 Surplus product No No surplus product will be produced as excavation shall be done as per the demand and will be directly sent to the destined places. 4.6 Sewage sludge or other sludge from effluent No Effluent is not generated in mining activities treatment Hence treatment is not required. Domestic sewage will be disposed through eco-friendly mobile toilets. 4.7 Construction or demolition wastes No Neither any construction of permanent structure nor any demolition is contemplated. 4.8 Redundant machinery or equipment Yes The machinery or hand equipment shall be either auctioned to other miners as per the suitability or will be disposed in a proper way based on the condition of equipment or tools. 4.9 Contaminated soils or other materials No No contaminated soil or other materials are envisaged as it is open cast mining. 4.10 Agricultural wastes No No agriculture waste is produced.

4.11 Other solid wastes No -

5. Release of pollutants or any hazardous, toxic or noxious substances to air (Kg/hr)

SN Information/check list confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with approximate quantities No / rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 5.1 Emission from combustion of fossil fuels from Yes Emissions from vehicles are anticipated stationary or mobile sources during transportation. 5.2 Emissions from production processes Yes Some dust is expected during loading and excavation of mineral. 5.3 Emissions from materials handling including Yes Dust and fugitive emissions will be generated storage or transport during activities such as loading and transportation of minerals. 5.4 Emissions from construction activities No No construction activity is envisaged. including plant and equipment 5.5 Dust or odours from handling of materials No - including construction materials, sewage and waste 5.6 Emissions from incineration of waste No No incineration is proposed as there will not be any non-biodegradable waste 5.7 Emissions from burning of waste in open air No No burning of material is proposed (e.g. slash materials, construction debris) 5.8 Emissions from any other sources No -

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6. Generation of Noise and Vibration and Emissions of Light and Heat:

SN Information/Checklist confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with approximate quantities No / rates, wherever Possible) with source of information data of with source of information data 6.1 From operation of equipment e.g. engines Yes Noise will be generated during manual ventilation plant, crushers extraction of mineral by using open cast manual mining. 6.2 From industrial or similar process No No industrial process is involved at mine lease area. 6.3 From construction or demolition No No construction or demolition is proposed.

6.4 From blasting or piling No --

6.5 From construction or operational traffic Yes No construction is proposed in the mine lease area; however, Transportation of excavated mineral will generate some noise. 6.6 From lighting or cooling systems No No cooling system is required for the mining activity. 6.7 From any other sources No -

7. Risks of contamination of land or water from releases of pollutants into the ground or into sewers, surface waters, groundwater, coastal waters or the sea:

SN Information/Checklist confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with approximate quantities No / rates, wherever possible) 7.1 From handling, storage, use or spillage of No - hazardous materials 7.2 From discharge of sewage or other effluents Yes Domestic sewage will be discharged through to water or the land (expected mode and eco-friendly mobile toilets. Other than that place of discharge) no effluent is generated. 7.3 By deposition of pollutants emitted to air into No However, water sprinkling will be done to the land or into water minimize the dust. 7.4 From any other sources No - 7.5 Is there a risk of long term buildup of No Only major pollutant generated from this pollutants in the environment from these mining activity is fugitive dust which will be sources? suppressed by spraying and sprinkling of water, covering of trucks with tarpaulin sheets.

8. Risk of accidents during construction or operation of the Project, which could affect human health or the environment:

SN Information/Checklist confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with approximate quantities No / rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 8.1 From explosions, spillages, fires etc. from No Not applicable in case of mining. storage, handling, use or production of hazardous substances 8.2 From any other causes No -

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8.3 Could the project be affected by natural Yes The topography of the lease area, lying in disasters causing environmental damage (e.g. hillock. Possibility of earthquakes cannot be floods, earthquakes, landslides, cloudburst neglected as the lease area lies within Seismic etc.? Zone: V as per seismic zoning map of India (IS: 1893: 2002). However the mine lease area does not house any structure.

9. Factors which should be considered (such as consequential development) which could lead to environmental effects or the potential for cumulative impacts with other existing or planned activities in the locality

SN Information / Checklist confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with approximate No quantities/rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 9.1 Lead to development of supporting utilities, Yes The soapstone mineral is an important raw ancillary development or development material for various industries. The stimulated by the project which could have soapstone produced will be used in paper, impact on the environment e.g. pesticides and insecticides industries . Supporting infrastructure (roads, power supply, waste or waste treatment etc.) . Housing development . Extractive industries . Supply . Other 9.2 Lead to after-use of the site, which could No The site is in hillock section and shall be have an impact on the environment closed after the expiry of the lease and / or discontinuation of mining activity in the area. Thus, no significant impact on environment is expected. 9.3 Set a precedent for later developments No - 9.4 Have cumulative effects due to proximity to No - other existing or planned projects with similar effects

(III) Environmental Sensitivity ‘

Aerial distance (within 15 SN Areas Name / Identity km.) Proposed project location boundary 1. Areas protected under international No None conventions, national or local legislation for their ecological, landscape, cultural or other related value 2. Areas which are important or sensitive for Wetlands -- ecological reasons – Wetlands, watercourses or other water bodies, Water Bodies –Seasonal 500 m away towards coastal zone, biospheres, mountains, Nalla western side of the site forests Coastal Zone -- Biosphere -- Mountains Central Himalayan Zone Forest –Lori 1.0 Km. Reserve Forest

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3. Areas used by protected, important or No -- sensitive species of flora and fauna for breeding, nesting, foraging, resting, over wintering, migration 4. Inland, coastal, marine or underground None -- waters 5. State, National boundaries No No such as boundary within 15.0 Km from the site. 6. Routes or facilities used by the public for Pithoragarh-Thal PWD 5.0 Km access to recreation or other tourist, Road pilgrim areas 7. Defence installations No None 8. Densely populated or built-up area No --

9. Areas occupied by sensitive man-made Primary Health Centre- 5.0 Km land uses (hospitals, schools, places of Dewalthal worship, community facilities) Primary school - Village 1.5 Km Bamdoli Post Office – Bamdoli 1.5 Km 10. Areas containing important, high quality Soap Stone Good quality soapstone is or scarce resources available at project site. (Ground water resources, surface resources, forestry, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, minerals) 11. Areas already subjected to pollution or None None environmental damage. (Those where existing legal environmental standards are exceeded) 12 Areas susceptible to natural hazard which Earthquake The study area lies in could cause the project to present Seismic Zone V. However environmental problems natural hazards due to (Earthquakes, subsidence landslides, earthquakes are not erosion, flooding or extreme or adverse anticipated to be a major climatic conditions) environmental issue owing to the shallow mining depths. Also no major structures are part of the proposed development. Hence environmental impacts due to the proposed development are ruled out. Subsidence Landslide Natural Subsidence is a quite common phenomenon in the hilly areas; however mining will be carried out by open cast manual method by adopted adequate safety measures. Erosion During Monsoon, mining will be stopped. Toe wall will be erected at the base of interbred dump/soil stack. Retaining wall will be made along the backfilled pits. However monitoring

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will be done for maintaining natural drainage batter in the area. Flooding Flooding may occur depending upon the rainfall, however mining will not be carried out during monsoon season. Extreme /adverse climate No extreme/ adverse climatic conditions are observed in the study area.

(IV) PROPOSED TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR EIA STUDIES

Considering Nature, size & scale of the project, the project is likely to have minimal impacts, we request to consider project as category B2. We propose to submit EMP for the same.

“I hereby given an undertaking that the data and information given in the application and enclosures are true to the best of my knowledge and belief and I am aware that if any part of the data and information submitted is found to be false or misleading at any stage, the project will be rejected and clearance given, if any to the project will be revoked at our risk and cost”

Date: 30-10-2015 Shri Manoj sahni Place: Pithoragarh (Owner) R/o Punetha Bhawan , Ghantakara, District- Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The letter of intent an area of 4.203Ha for mineral Soapstone was granted to Shri Manoj Sahni on lease land lies in Village-Bamdoli, Tehsil-Didihat, Dist- Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand vide letter no 287(1) /VII-1-10/94-Kha (T.C)/2004 dated 05-03-2010 for a period of 20 years. The soapstone mining project is categories as "B2" as per Office Memorandum issued by MoEF, New Delhi, Dated 24th December, 2013.

Mining Plan & PMCP under Rule 22 (4) of MCR 1960 & 23 (B) of MCDR, 1988 was approved vide letter No. - 614(2)/MP-B-301/10-DDN dated 05/10/2010. Form — 1, Pre-feasibility Report and Environment Management Plan are prepared by NABET Accredited consultant CEMC Pvt. Ltd. in association with Enviro Infra Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Ghaziabad.

1.1 SALIENT FEATURES OF THE PROJECT

Sr. No. Particular Details A. Nature of the Project Soapstone Mining Project. B. Size of the Project 1. ML Area 4.203Hectare (Private Agricultural Land). 2. Proposed Production Recoverable Quantity of Soapstone: Capacity 4499Tonnes/ Annum (maximum) (As per approved Mining Scheme) 3. Lease Period of Mine Lease was granted for a period of 20 Years. C. Method of Mining 1. Method Open-Cast Manual Mining 2. Blasting / Drilling Not proposed D. Project Location 1. Village Bomdoli 2. Tehsil Didihat 3. District Pithoragarh 4. State Uttarakhand 5. Topo Sheet No. 62 C/2 6. Lease Area Coordinates Latitude : 29°43’5.70” N to 29°43’5.80” N Longitude : 80°11’56.60” E to 80°11’56.70”E E. Cost Details 1. Project Cost 21.0 lakhs F. Water Demand 1. Requirement 1.0KLD 2. Source of water Seasonal Nallah / Tap water G. Man Power Requirement 42 H. Environmental Setting

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

1. Nearest Village Bomdoli 2. Nearest Town Pithoragarh Nearest National / State 3. Pithoragarh -Thal PWD Road, 5 km Highway 4. Nearest Railway Station Kathgodam, 218 Km. 5. Nearest Airport Pantnagar, 248 Km. Ecological Sensitive Areas (National Park, Wild Life 6. Sanctuaries, Biosphere None Reserve etc.) within 10 km radius Reserved / Protected Lori RF – 1.0 Km. 7. Forest within 10 km radius Water bodies within 10 km Seasonal Nalla 500 m 8. radius of the mine site. Archaeological Important None 9. Place 10. Seismic Zone V Source: Site visit and Approve Scheme of Mining

1.0 INTRODUCTION OF THE PROJECT/ BACKGROUND INFORMATION

2.1 IDENTIFICATION OF PROJECT PROPONENT

The proposed lease of Soapstone Mine is 4.203Ha areas and is situated near Village-Bomdoli, Tehsil-Didihat, District-Pithoragarh in the Uttarakhand State.

The Lease has been granted in favour of Shri Manoj Sahni and lease deed was executed on 07-01-2011.

2.2MINING LEASE STATUS

The Mining Lease is non-forest land. The lease area comprises of uneven agricultural land only. Lease has obtained no objection certificate from the individual land owners for the exploitation of mineral Soapstone. Scheme of mining& PMCP under Rule 22 (4) of MCR 1960 & 23 (B) of MCDR, 1988 was approved vide letter No. - 614(2)/MP-B-301/10-DDN dated 05/10/2010

About 4499Tonnes (maximum) of recoverable quantities of Soapstone will be produced by the end of fifth year and mine get fully developed at that time. Life of the mine with the proposed production will be about 20 years. After five years, the remaining area will be explored with mining pits & exploratory pits, therefore mineable reserve will be enhanced,& accordingly the life of mine will be increased.

2.3 BRIEF INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROJECT

The project has been proposed for the mining of Soapstone from the Agricultural Land by open cast manual Mining method. The mineral are exploited with the help of spade, crowbar, chisel etc. The interburden of low grade magnesite boulders intermixed with in soapstone body will be removed with the help of chisel, crowbar, Hammer etc.

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

The Soapstone mineral in Kumaon Himalaya is an alteration a products magnesium bearing minerals, Soapstone occurs as pocket type massive and sometimes confined to the upper part of the magnesium bearing zones.

The area is typically Himalayan undulating Hilly terrain. The area has mild slope towards south & west directions & vegetated with scanty shrubs, bushes,& plants. The entire lease hold comprises of agriculture fields. A thin layer of brownish colour of soil exists in the whole area. The thickness of soil varies from 0.40m to 0.60m having an average thickness of 0.50 m. However soil will be removed and carefully stored for use in plantation purpose by backfilling the pits & to restore the land for agriculture purpose.

The Soapstone will be exploited manually. Since the deposit is lenticular, the overburden removal & production may remove simultaneously. The mining operation line screening & loading will be done by manual method. The mineral is not meant for captive use. The extracted / collected Soapstone will be sold to different industrial use.

Talc pockets intermixed with magnesite & dolomite boulders are exposed in the area. Talc is generally off-white to greyish white in colour. Major portion of the talc is exposed in the agricultural field. The magnesite is yellowish to pale brown in colour.

In the lease hold area it has been revealed that Soapstone body follows the topography of the area having gentler slopes. Soapstone mineralization is confined to carbonate horizons only. The deposits off Soap Stone, which are derived from ultra- mafic rocks, are more abundant in dolomites. Soapstone is an alteration product of magnesium rich minerals & good grade of Soapstone is found in association of dolomite & magnesite.

2.4 NEED FOR THE PROJECT AND ITS IMPORTANCE TO THE COUNTRY OR REGION

Soapstone finds its use in many of the industries that include detergent & Paper industries etc. The natural available material in the quarry site has been found suitable from techno economic consideration. The mining project shall provide direct employment to about 42 persons. Additional jobs are created by way of transportation.

No subgrade mineral is produced from the mine. The soapstone is being dressed manually and transport to Haldwani. The final material will be utilized paper & cosmetic industries.

2.5 DEMAND-SUPPLY GAP

Considering the increasing development of industries in the State of Uttarakhand as well as other nearby States, there is huge demand of soapstone as a raw material in various types of industries including cosmetic, detergent,& paper industries. Therefore, partial demand of material used in such industries can be accomplished from this mine.

2.6 IMPORTS VS. INDIGENOUS PRODUCTION

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

Import does not apply in the present case as Soapstone is indigenously available at a number of mines under operation in Uttarakhand & other States of India.

2.7 EXPORT POSSIBILITY

Export possibility is neither conceivable nor there is any such demand.

2.8 DOMESTIC/ EXPORT MARKETS

The proposed mining activity is for obtaining soapstone for indigenous consumption and also for sale to nearby industries like Refractory, Cosmetic, detergent, Paper and Talc Powder.

2.9 EMPLOYMENT POTENTIAL

About 42 people shall be engage thorough project proponent for Extraction / Collection shorting, handling and loading of Soapstone in mining area, besides, watch and ward and plantation activity with proper maintenance.

3.1 TYPE OF PROJECT INCLUDING INTERLINKED AND INTERDEPENDENT PROJECTS, IF ANY

The project has been proposed for the production of 4499 T/Annum (maximum) of Soapstone by open cast manual method without drilling/blasting for extraction method in agricultural land. The lease area (4.203Ha) is Agriculture land. The project has no other interlinked project.

3.2 LOCATION

The mine lease area falls in Village-Bomdoli, Tehsil-Didihat, District-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. The lease area falls within the survey of India Toposheet No. 62C/2.

3.3 DETAILS OF ALTERNATE SITES

The mine lease area covered under 4.203Ha, Village-Bomdoli, Tehsil-Didihat,District- Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand is a mine lease allotted to project proponent. Soapstone bearing with low grade magnesite was seen in the pit. The Soapstone occurring in this area is weakly foliated, fine grained, off white in colour with its characteristics soapy feel. There is a sufficient reserve of Soapstone within the lease area as per the mine plan, therefore no alternate site was considered.

3.4 SIZE OR MAGNITUDE OF OPERATION

The mine lease area is 4.203Ha private Agricultural land on hill terrain and the project is contemplated to extracted the mineral (Soap Stone) by manual open cast method of mining without blasting

3.5 GEOLOGY 3.5.1 TOPOGRAPHY The topography of the area is rough and rugged & covered with soil cover of 0.40m to 0.60m thickness having an average thickness of 0.50m. The area has mild slope towards south direction. The nearest water body is Seasonal nalla which is approximate 500 m away towards western site of mine area and meet perennial nalla locally called masarau gadhera. The highest level of the area is 1460 RL on

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

North side while the lowest level is recorded 1440m RL in south side along boundary pillar.

3.5.2 REGIONAL GEOLOGY The area forms the part of Calc zone of Tejam.The stratigraphical sequence of the region as per monumental work (Geology of Lesser Himalaya, 1980) of K.S. Valdiya is as below:

Berinag Quartzite ------Unconformity ------Gangolighat dolomite Dolomite, dolomitic limestone with algal structures. Magnesite with minor talc/talcose phyllite and dolomite intercalations.

------Unconformity ------Sor Slate Shales, slates and Phyllites,

The above sequence as observed in this region is considered to be an inverted one. Soapstone pocket occur within carbonates of Gangolihat Dolomite.

3.5.3 LOCAL GEOLOGY

Alluvial Cover: A thin layer of brownish colour of soil exists in the whole area. The thickness of soil varies from 0.40m to 0.60m having an average thickness of 0.50m.

Soapstone bearing with Magnesite: The soapstone mineral in kumaon Himalaya is an alteration product of magnesium bearing minerals, Soapstone occurs as pocket type massive and sometimes confined to the upper part of the magnesium bearing zones. The mineral body occurs in irregular shape & size. The plane of soapstone trending 3020 N to 3090 N, amount of dip varies 320 to 340 and dip direction varies 320 N. to 390 N.

The area was explored with the help of fourteen exploratory pits viz E1, E2 to E14. During prospecting period the pits were exposed up to the depth of 4m to 9m and found that soapstone persists in depth. Soapstone bearing with low grade mangnesitic rock was seen in these pits. The pits were dug for different levels in the agricultural field & soapstone encountered in the pits which is further persists in depth as observed during prospecting period. The soapstone occurring in this area is weakly foliated, fine grained off white in colour with its characteristic soapy feel.

3.5.4 MINERAL RESERVES DURING THE LEASE PERIOD

3.5.5 GEOLOGICAL RESERVES OF SOAPSTONE IN TONNES

In this area that the total mineral occurs along the slope in entire 4.203Ha area and upto depth of 09 m and accordingly total mineral reserves are as given below: Geological reserves in the entire ML area 244887 T.

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

3.5.6 MINEABLE RESERVES OF SOAPSTONE

Proved reserves 120786 T Probable reserves 87742 T Possible reserves 36359 T Total 244887T

3.5.7 PROPOSED RATE OF PRODUCTION WHEN MINE SHALL BE FULLY DEVELOPED AND EXPECTED LIFE OF THE MINE

In this area the exploration mining and waste dumping has to be simultaneously done and therefore exploitation of the mineral during life of the mine will be much more as estimated above taking into consideration for occurrence of mineral up to 6.0m depth. However for all purposes exploitation of mineral during life of the mine can be considered safely as given below and due to exploration and future planning mineral reserves will definitely increase and production schedule as estimated below will change. However, the life of mine will be more than 20 years based on proposed rate of production i.e. 4499 MT/Annum (Maximum).

3.6 PROJECT DESCRIPTION WITH PROCESS DETAILS

3.6.1 PROPOSED METHOD OF MINING

Mining was initially carried in two pits and presently in II pit as pit I was closed. Mining has been opened from lower to upper level through formation of benches. Benches height will be kept 1.5m, width of benches will be kept 1.5 with face slope 450. Mining faces will advance towards North West direction.

3.6.2 LOADING

After excavation, sorting of Soapstone will be done manually. The sorted out mineral will be filled into bags & transported to road side by mules or manually for loading into trucks. The top soil & inter burden shall be kept separately & utilized for used for back filling & reclamation of the mined out area.

3.6.3 STACKING OF SUB GRADE MINERALS

No sub-grade minerals will be generated during the mining / sorting of Soapstone.

3.6.4 CONCEPTUAL MINING PLAN

The conceptual mining plan has been formulated for anticipated life of the mine. The main feature of this plan is as given below:

3.6.5 MINERAL EXPLORATION

In order to demarcate the mineable area, within the approved area in the past, mineral prospection of the lease area was carried-out by the help of trial pits.

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

The trial pits work reveals that (i) the mineralization extends over the entire ML area (ii) though all the exploratory pits showing the presence of soapstone have been backfilled & reclaimed but on the basis of exploratory details and mineralization based on existing pit (iii) for the purpose of Mining during the life of the mine based on the exploration done in this belt is safety considered to occur upto a depth 9 m for all the purposes.

3.6.6 ULTIMATE PIT LIMIT

The ultimate pit limit has been marked leaving 7.5 m wide strip along the boundary. The depth of pit by the end of lease period will be 9.0m.

3.6.7 DISPOSAL OF WASTE ROCK AND BACKFILLING

Mining is proposed in two pits and separate areas are selected for stacking of waste in external dump and stacking of top soil adjacent to the mining pits. Since these external dumps will be for temporary period and as soon as space in the mining pits will be available and mineral will be excavated waste will be backfilled and top soil will be spread over backfilled area.

These external dumps of waste dump and top soil will also be subsequently vacated and backfilling will be done in the space created in the mining pits. However, since during five year period due to manual mining it will not be possible to vacate the dump.

At all the times it is necessary that top soil will not be allowed to mix with waste rock. Separate stacking will be done, it will also be done separately so that precious top soil is not properly conserved and utilized at all he stages of stacking and backfilling.

Since the land chosen for disposal of waste is mineralized land and also cultivated land therefore, the land will be ultimately vacated and utilized for mineral excavation and also for cultivation.

The quantities of top soil & over burden to be generated at the blocks of five years up to the end of lease period are as below:

Year Top Soil (cubic meter) Waste Rock (m3)

First 1291 3969 Second 226 3729 Third 663 5931 Forth 737 4087 Fifth 710 4248 Total 3627 21964 Source: Approved mine plan.

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

MINING AREA

The area to be occupied due to mining by the end of 5th year is about 6110Sqm. By the end of the lease period about 2.54 ha area will be covered by mining & all the excavated area will be backfilled/reclaimed.

3.6.8 BLASTING

Soapstone is a soft material, its hardness has been considered as 1 on mohs hardness scale which can be mined easily by manual working therefore, and there is no need of drilling & blasting.

3.7 RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION/ RECYCLING AND REUSE

Not applicable in the present case as all size of minerals will be extracted and transported to the Road side site outside the mine lease area.

3.8 AVAILABILITY OF WATER ITS SOURCE, ENERGY / POWER REQUIREMENT & SOURCE

3.8.1 WATER REQUIREMENT

Water requirement for human consumption, plantation and dust suppression is 1.0KLD, which shall be met from nearby village & natural springs. The water will be stored & transported in Canes / Drums / water tanks.

3.8.2 POWER

No electrical power shall be required for mining operations & allied activities.

3.9 QUANTITY OF WASTES TO BE GENERATED (LIQUID AND SOLID) AND SCHEME FOR THEIR MANAGEMENT/ DISPOSAL

3.9.1 SOLID WASTE GENERATION & ITS DISPOSAL

The site for mining is having a soil cover of 0.50 m thickness (average). Dumping material during the mine will consist of soil and waste (over burden & inter burden). Soil & waste stacked separately. The waste dump & top soil stacked near the mining pit will be temporary in nature. The excavated pits would be restoring by the back filling. Mules will be utilized for transporting of Soapstone; therefore the generated dung will be collected separately & used for manuring in Plantation / agricultural purpose.

3.9.2 LIQUID EFFLUENT

There will be little waste water generation from mining activities. Domestic effluent will be disposed through eco-friendly Mobile Toilet.

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

4.0 SITE ANALYSIS

4.1 CONNECTIVITY

The proposed site falls at Village — Bomdoli, Tehsil-Didihat, District —Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. The lease area is also connected Pithoragarh – Thal PWD Road. Soapstone from mine site shall be transported through mules and stacked at road site. Soapstone will be transported to Haldwani via Pithoragarh.

4.2 LANDFORM, LAND USE AND LAND OWNERSHIP

4.2.1 LANDFORM

The mine lease area is in uneven agricultural fields.

4.2.2LAND USE

The land use of the mine lease area is classified as uneven agricultural land. The impact on land form or physiography will be landuse on the hilly terrain will undergo radical changes due to the open cast mining.

4.2.3 LAND OWNERSHIP

The designated mine area is private agricultural land & is free from forest land. Project proponent has obtained No Objection Certificate from the individual land owners for the exploration of Soapstone in their respective land.

4.3 EXISTING LAND USE PATTERN

The existing land use of mine lease area belongs to landuse category "Uneven Agricultural Land.”

4.4 EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE

The mine lease area is a fallow land which lies in the private agricultural fields and gets deposition of Soapstone mineral there is no existing infrastructure, however during mining temporary rest shelters for workers will be provided.

4.5 SOIL CLASSIFICATION

The soil type of the study area consists of clays, fine to medium sand and occasional gravels. In this formation there is a dominance of clayey. The granular zones mostly occur as lenses and have inter–tonguing relationships with elastic and non-elastic units.

4.6 CLIMATIC DATA FROM SECONDARY SOURCES

The climate varies from Sub-tropical and sub-humid with three distinct seasons i.e. summer, monsoon (rainy season) and winter. The rainy season starts from the month of middle June to September end, and followed by the winter season, which starts from the end of October and goes up to February. The winter rains are generally experienced in late December or early January, which brings down the temperature and that’s how December and January are the coldest months in the region. The summer season starts from March and it goes up to June. The hottest months of the

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. year are May and June. The maximum temperature in the district goes up to 45 ⁰C during the summers and the minimum temperature is between 1 and 4⁰C, further north of the district, the temperature comes down to 0.4⁰C in winter season (Source: NIC Uttarakhand).

Rainfall, spatially, is highly variable depending upon the altitude. The intensity of the rainfall increases from south to north and the amount of rainfall decreases in generally from west to east. About 90% of the rainfall received during the monsoon period, and the remaining 10% of the rainfall in non-monsoon period.

4.7 SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

The social infrastructure like educational facilities (primary and higher secondary schools, degree college), drinking water supply, post and telegraph, public transportation and hospitals are by and large are available in the District-Pithoragarh.

5.0 PLANNING BRIEF

5.1 PLANNING CONCEPT

Open cast manual mining method will be adopted for Soapstone mining. Project will produce 4499 T/Annum (maximum) Soapstone, which will be used for meeting the demand of various industries as important raw material.

5.2 ASSESSMENT OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEMAND (PHYSICAL & SOCIAL)

Adequate infrastructure facilities are available in the vicinity of mine lease area and due to the mining activities; no extra infrastructure over and above the existing infrastructure is required.

5.3 AMENITIES/FACILITIES

Proper site services such as First Aid, Rest Shelter, and Drinking Water will be provided to the mine workers.

As per Mine Rules & Regulations following statutory site services have been made available:

5.3.1 MINES OFFICE

The facilities include Manager's Office, including Time Office, First aid facility, Mine Planning & Central Stores, etc.

5.3.2 REST SHELTER

Rest shelter shall be provided by project proponent outside lease area.

5.3.3 WATER SUPPLY

A water storage tank with adequate capacity provided to cater to the water requirement for mined workers. Water will be supplied through Jeri cans from nearby villages & natural springs for human consumption, dust suppression and for plantation.

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

5.3.4 POWER SUPPLY

The mine will work in day time only, so no lighting arrangement will be required.

5.3.5 TRANSPORT OF MEN AND MATERIAL

Employee will report to the duty on own means. The material from the mine will be transported by trucks.

5.3.6 COMMUNICATION

Mobile phones shall be used for communication.

5.3.7 SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS

Appropriate security arrangement shall be made.

5.3.8 VOCATIONAL TRAINING

The Proponent will provide vocational training / awareness programme at the mines to improve the skills of the workers.

6.0 PROPOSED INFRASTRUCTURE

6.1 INDUSTRIAL AREA (PROCESSING AREA

Temporary arrangements like Site Office, rest Shelters & approach roads etc. shall be provided. No permanent infrastructure is proposed.

6.2 RESIDENTIAL AREA (NON PROCESSING AREA)

As the local person shall be employed, no residential building, / housing are proposed.

6.3 AFFORESTATION During first five years plantation shall be undertaken over benap land and it is outside the mine lease area. Plantation at the block of five year period up to the end of lease period is as below:

Years Area (ha) No. of Saplings 1 0.018 18 I I 0.019 20 III 0.037 35 IV 0.039 40 V 0.045 45 Total 0.158 158 Local native species like Peach (Khubani), Pears (Nashpati), Apricot (Aaru), Faliyat, Surai etc. shall be planted.

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

6.4 SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

In-line with the Social Responsibility Activities at other operational sites, relevant developmental assistance shall be rendered depending on the local needs identified through studies.

6.5 DRINKING WATER MANAGEMENT

Water requirement for drinking and operations will be 1.0KLD, which will be met from nearby village & natural spring and river water as per availability & suitability for the purpose.

6.6 SEWERAGE SYSTEM

Effluent is not generated in mining activities Hence treatment is not required. Domestic sewage will be disposed through eco-friendly Mobile Toilet.

6.7 INDUSTRIAL WASTE MANAGEMENT

Not applicable, as the mining activity will not be generating any waste water.

6.8 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

Waste generated during mining operation will be backfilled in the mined out area. There will be no external dumps at the end of life of mine. The overburden soil will be properly stacked and will be consumed in restoration of excavated pit. Waste rock encountered as clay pockets will be removed.

The overburden /waste rock removed will be partially consumed in preparation of roads and ramps, earthen bund /protective barrier / fencing, low lying areas for future plantation program. The remaining waste rock will be dumped in the properly chosen sites with all precautions. The screen rejects will be used for filling rocky land and low lying area for plantation as most of the part of mining lease area is devoid of top soil cover. The waste rock and screen rejects will be dumped in separate dumps.

Mules will be utilized for transporting of Soapstone; therefore the generated dung will be collected separately & used for manuring in Plantation / agricultural purpose.

6.9 POWER REQUIREMENT & SUPPLY/ SOURCE No electrical power requirement for mining activities.

7.0 REHABILITATION AND RESETTLEMENT (R&R) PLAN

The existing mine lease area is designated as private agricultural land and has no human settlements and hence, no R & R is envisaged.

8.0 PROJECT SCHEDULE & COST ESTIMATES

8.1 LIKELY DATE OF START OF CONSTRUCTION AND LIKELY DATE OF COMPLETION

No construction activity is involved under the project activity. The mining is being carried out as per approved mine scheme and will be done till lease period.

Extraction / Collection of Soapstone from Lease Area (4.203Ha) at PFR Village- Bamdoli Tehsil-Didihat, Dist-Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.

8.2 ESTIMATED PROJECT COST

The capital investment for the project is Rs. 21Lacs.

9.0 ANALYSIS OF PROPOSAL (FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS)

9.1 FINANCIAL AND SOCIAL BENEFITS WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON THE BENEFIT TO THE LOCAL PEOPLE INCLUDING TRIBAL POPULATION, IFANY, IN THE AREA

The proposed project is expected to provide employment to local people in different activities such as Mining, sizing, transportation and plantation activities. No displacement, resettlement, or rehabilitation is involved. The project activity will also not have any major impact on the environment being done manually using opencast method of mining. At Post mining stage of proposed project, the existing land shall be reclaimed to its original stage by proper restoration & rehabilitation.

Soapstone mining in this lease area will give following social benefits

i. Employment opportunities to the locals.

ii. Reduction in the migration of jobless labourers from native places to other distant places.

iii. Interaction of local people with outsiders and improvement in communication, which will enhance their present status of knowledge and confidence.

Also the project proponent is committed to take initiatives which will have a positive impact on socio economic fabric of the region. As a part of community development Project proponent has allocated the budget for community activities such as Drinking Water, Housing, Sanitation, Health, Safety & Medical Facilities, Public Transportation & Communication, Educational/ Social Welfare etc.

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Environment Management Plan has been developed with a view to bring down the levels of impacts during proposed mining activities In each of the areas of impact, measures have to be taken to reduce potentially significant adverse impacts and where these are beneficial in nature, such impacts are to be enhanced/ augmented so that the overall adverse impacts are reduced to as low level as possible. Measures to be taken for each of the impact areas are detailed in the following paras:

2.0 LAND Land degradation and ecological disturbances generally occurs in open cast mining. Open cast method of mining causes some land degradation and disturbs the ecology of the area. While preparing the Environment management plan emphasis has been laid on restoring the ecology of the area as much as is possible. This has been made possible by planning the mine workings in the most systematic, safe and scientific manner with due regard to conservation of mineral. Degradation of land is not a very significant adverse impact in present mining of as no fragile Zone is present .Creation of access roads, mining operations, transportation of mined out material may have some impact on surrounding environment. In order to prevent the environmental degradation of leased mine area and its surroundings, the following measures shall be taken;

 Operations during daylight only.  Mining will be done in steps and geological formation is having slopes. There is no structure in the lease area .Mining activity will be done manually.

Movement of the vehicles on the road will be increased; however, non metalled road leading to stone mining area will be sprinkled with water at regular intervals. In addition to prevent spillage by trucks/tractor trolley, over loading should be controlled along with speed limit.

2.1 PLANS FOR LAND ENVIRONMENT

The total excavated area at the end of 5 years mining scheme comprised of 0.611Ha in lease area of 4.203 Ha.  Total 2.54 Ha. of the excavated lease area will be backfilled leveled and made suitable for agriculture during mine lease period.  At the time of closure of present mine scheme, plantation on 0.158Hectares will be done.  Mining is proposed by opencast manual mining method. A total 158 No. plants will be planted up to the end of life of mine covering an area of 0.158Ha.

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

 Minimum land should be used for mining and allied activities. The planning for mining has been done systematically by Bench formation to minimize the land degradation.

2.2 POST MINING (CONCEPTUAL) LAND PATTERN OF ML AREA (HA.)

The area to be occupied due to mining by the end of 5th year is about 0.611 Ha. by the end of the present mining scheme about 2.54 Ha area shall be covered by mining & all the excavated area shall be backfilled/reclaimed.

2.3 POST MINING LAND USE

The area will be restored after fillings the benches by top soil and waste material and plantation will be done.

3.0 MITIGATION MEASURES INCORPORATED INTO THE PROJECT TO MEET ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS

3.1 AIR POLLUTION CONTROL MEASURES

The proposed mining operations are not anticipated to raise the concentration of the pollutants beyond prescribed limits. However, the following measures would be adopted to mitigate the SPM levels in ambient air.

Dust particles generated during various mining activities when become airborne lead to increase in PM10 & PM2.5 level in the ambient air. The major source of dust generation is the transport of material by trucks and tractor trolleys. Adequate control measures shall be taken during mining operations as well as transportation of minerals.

The following steps shall be adopted to prevent air pollution due to airborne dust.

 Dust mask provided to the workers engaged at dust generation points like excavations, loading and unloading points.  The only air pollution sources are the vehicular movements.  The dust suppression measures like water spraying will be done on kachha roads.  Overloading will be prevented. The trucks/ tractor trolley will be covered by tarpaulin covers.  Ambient Air quality monitoring once in three month at project site and nearby villages.

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

3.2 NOISE POLLUTION CONTROL MEASURES

As there will be no heavy earth moving machinery, there will not be any major impact on noise level due to sand mining and other association activities. Blasting technique is not used for soapstone lifting, hence no possibility of land vibration. It was found that the proposed mining activity will not have any significant impact on the noise environment of the region. The only impact will be due to transportation of soapstone by trucks and tractor trolleys. As the only impact is due to transportation of soapstone to the stone crushing unit, the following control measures shall be taken to keep the ambient noise levels well within limits:

 Minimum use of horns and speed limit of 10 kmph in the village area.  Timely maintenance of vehicles and their silencers to minimize vibration and sound.  Phasing out of old and worn out trucks/tractors.  Care will be taken to produce minimum sound during soapstone loading.  Noise level monitoring with a frequency once in three month during mining operation period at nearby receptors.

3.3 MEASURES FOR MINIMIZING ADVERSE EFFECT ON WATER REGIME

There is no chance to toxic contamination or water pollution from the mining of soapstone. No noticeable change is expected and quality of water will remain potable.

3.3.1 Garland Drainage/ Earthen Mound Since it is an open case manual mine in which the working pits is open to sky, it is necessary that the rain water falling outside the edge limit of the working pit should not be allowed to enter into the pit. For this purpose about 5 m away from the proposed workings, garland, OB mix mound wall is provided around the working pit to check any inflow of water.

3.3.2 Surface Water Management The existing surface of the area is undulated and rugged with gentle slope. There is no surface water bodies/nalla crossing the mine lease area. However, the nearest water body is seasonal nalla which is approximate 500 m away towards western side from mine area and meet perennial gadhera masarau. One perianal spring existing outside the applied area in village Bamdoli which is about 180m away towards north east direction of proposed mining area and level of perennial spring is 1460 mRL. The proposed bottom level of working pit will be up to 1440 mRL (End of 5th year) & water table will not be intersected by mining operations as spring is about 180m away from the proposed working area. No seasonal or perennial drainage exists within the proposed site of working. Therefore chances to encounter the water within the working pit shall be nil during first five years. To restrict the rain water flow of upper levels, a garland drain all along the

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

proposed pit will be provided. The size of it will be 0.5mX0.7m (trapezoid slope) with 0.5m depth. To restrict the rainwater flow of upper level, a garland drain all along the proposed pits will be provided. The size of it will be 0.7mX0.5m (trapezoid shape) with 0.5m depth. Before the commencement of rainy season, all the quantities of waste shall be filled back in the mined out pit so chances of accumulation of rainy water in the mining pit shall be nil during first five years.

3.3.3 Ground Water Management The water table in hills is usually very deep and does not have any relevance with mining activities. However concurrent restoration will be done for original topography. Further no significant impact on water quality is anticipated as material exposed will be magnesite and dolomite. Water will be supplied from spring or water source of nearby village.

3.3.4 Waste Water Management  Eco-friendly Mobile Toilet will be provided for the disposal of domestic effluent.  No waste water generation is envisaged during the mining process.  No toxic material is encountered in the deposit. The mine drainage, if any, will not be harmful to the biotic life. Adequate control measures will be adopted to check not only the wash-off from soil erosion but also uncontrolled flow of mine water.

4.0 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT  The waste generated during the proposed period will be dump at earmarked site and same will be backfilled in excavated area at the end of life of mine.  Retaining wall around the waste/top soil dump yard will be constructing to arrest the waste and garland drain is made to flow of water.  The topsoil will be stacked and utilized in plantation purpose within the lease area pits and for backfilling.

Mining is proposed in two pits having soil cover of 0.50m and separate areas are selected for stacking of waste in external dump and stacking of top soil adjacent to the mining pits. Since these external dumps will be for temporary period and as soon as space in the mining pits will be available and mineral will be excavated waste will be backfilled and top soil will be spread over backfilled area.

These external dumps of waste dump and top soil will also be subsequently vacated and backfilling will be done in the space created in the mining pits.

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

Since the land chosen for disposal of waste is mineralized land and also cultivated land therefore, the land will be ultimately vacated and utilized for mineral excavation and also for cultivation.

The quantities of top soil & over burden to be generated at the blocks of five years up to the end of lease period are as below:

Year Top Soil (cubic meter) Waste Rock (m3)

First 1291 3969 Second 226 3729 Third 663 5931 Forth 737 4087 Fifth 710 4248 Total 3627 21964 Source: Approved mine plan. Local fast growing species like Rambas, Hisalu, Kilmora etc. shall be planted over top soil & sub soil stacks for the stabilization of stacks.

5.0 LAND RECLAMATION

The area to be occupied due to mining by the end of 5th year is about 0.611 ha. By the end of the lease period about 2.54 ha area will be covered by mining & all the excavated area shall be backfilled/reclaimed ultimately there will be no any pit , road, dumps & stacks & all the area will be backfilled & brought to its maximum original topography & will be used for agriculture purpose. (Source: Approved Mine plan)

6.0 Biological Environment

6.1 Mitigation of Impacts on Biological Environment There is a requirement to establish a stable ecosystem with both ecological and economic returns. Minimization of soil erosion and dust pollution enhances the beauty of the core and the buffer zone. To achieve this it is planned to increase plantation activities. The basic objectives of plantations are as follows:-

 Improvement of Soil quality  Quick vegetative cover to check soil erosion  Conservation of biological diversity  Provide forage and browse for wild life

6.2 Measures to Control Impact on Flora

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

 Since there is no important species which are in endangered of flora observed in core zone, so no adverse impacts on flora is anticipated, therefore measures are not required.

6.3 Measures to Control Impact on Fauna

 No endangered faunal diversity is found in the area, therefore measures are not required.

7.0 AFFORESTATION PROGRAMME

During first five years plantation shall be undertaken over benap land and it is outside the mine lease area. Plantation at the block of five year period up to the end of lease period is as below:

During first five years plantation will be undertaken over Van Panchayat land and it is outside the mine lease area. Plantation at the block of five year period up to the end of lease period is as below:

Years Area (ha) No. of Saplings I 0.018 18 I I 0.019 20 III 0.037 35 IV 0.039 40 V 0.045 45 Total 0.158 158

Agava sisilana will be planted as soil binder Local native species like Peach (Khubani), Pears (Nashpati), Apricot (Aaru), Faliyat, Surai etc.shall be plantedwith consultation of with Forest Department Officials. The survival rate of the plants shall be 60%. Post Plantation care will be rendered in terms of protection from grazing, fire, Pest, watering during dry spell & replacement of plant by healthy sapling, if required.

8.0 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY MEASURES

Occupational health and safety (OHS) is a cross-disciplinary area concerned with protecting the safety, health and welfare of people engaged in work or employment. The goal of all occupational health and safety programs is to foster a safe work environment. To control and minimize the risks at workplace, proponent implements Health, Safety and Environment Policy with the following objectives:  To prevent hazards  To provide safe and healthy environment to all the employees.

The Proponent therefore, adopts the policy set below for the purpose of creating and maintaining safe and healthy environment.

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

8.1 Occupational Health Hazards at Mine Site

Mining activity experiences risk of a number of hazards. Some examples of such hazards are as under:  Exposure to dust  Noise exposure;  Physical Hazards;  Vehicular movements.

These mainly impact on those working within the mine although health hazards can also impact on local communities.

8.2 Implementation of Occupational Health and Safety Measures

Occupational Health & Safety measures result in improving the conditions under which workers are employed and work. It improves not only their physical efficiency, but also provides protection to their life and limb. Proponent will consider the following safety measures:  To depute dedicated safety team  Inspection and maintenance of equipment's and accessories  Periodic health check up  Removal of unsafe conditions and prevention of unsafe acts  Detailed analysis of each and every incident  To provide standard PPEs and ensure its uses  Periodic inspection by internal and external safety experts  Celebrations of various safety events for awareness  Medical facilities & first aid boxes will be established is the mine premises

8.3 Safety Policy

Safety of both men and materials is accorded maximum priority in the mine. An occupational health and safety policy has been framed with the following objectives. In general following measure are been done.  To improve working conditions and environment:  To propagate safety measures and create safety consciousness among workmen, supervisors and officials.  To train workmen as well as the supervisors in their respective fields of operations;  To reduce the scope of accidents and to aim at accident free performance:  To adopt measures for improvement in health standards:  To ensure that no long term effects on health due to industrial environment take place.  To ensure that all statutory provisions relating to safety are followed.

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

9.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM

The project proponent shall set up an Environmental Management Committee as laid down below and also proposes the Environmental Monitoring Plan for the regular monitoring of the pollution load.

The EMC has the responsibility for liasoning with state and central governmental environmental authorities for enforcing environmental legislation, environmental protection, and control.

The duties of the EMC will include the following: 1. Environmental monitoring of the project site and the surrounding area. 2. Ensuring that standards for pollution control are well maintained. 3. Developing the green belt. 4. Ensuring water use is minimized. 5. Carrying out the Environmental Management Plan. 6. Organizing meetings of the Environmental Management Committee and reporting to the committee. 7. To ensure proper funding for implementing EMP.

The proponent will follow the standard methods for monitoring various environmental parameters i.e. Air, Water, Noise, and Soil through accredited laboratory and submit the compliance report as per EC conditions applicability.

Monitoring Schedule for Environmental Parameters

Particulars Monitoring Imp. monitoring frequencies parameters Surface Water Twice in a year pH, SS, TDS, Iron,

Cl, Hardness, alkalinity, NO3, PO4

Ambient Air Quality Twice in a year PM10, PM2.5, SO2 & NOx

Soil Analysis Twice in a year pH conductivity

SO4, NO3, PO4 texture, Alkalinity Noise level in dBA Noise Twice in a year

10.0 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

The lessee has not only taken keen interest in the socio-economic upliftment of the area but also served as a helping hand to the local people and Government also. The lessee made various efforts for the local development mainly by paying more attention in the fields of agricultural, medical, & primary health, drinking

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

water, literacy. The applicant also plans for conducting some cultural activities, sports and games during major festivals for the staff, workers and people of the nearby area.

Better education facilities, proper health care, road infrastructure and drinking water facilities are basic social amenities for better living standard of any human being. Proponent will help to enhance all basic facilities in the area, which will help in uplifting the living standards of local communities.

About 42 persons shall be employed at mine site and local villagers are to be benefited directly or indirectly by the project.

The amount to be invested for social development in the surrounding areas is given below:

Proposed Action First Five Year 2015-2020 2020-2025 Plan Towards of Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure social economic Proposed In curred Proposed In curred Proposed In curred Remarks development (in Rs.) (in Rs.) (in Rs.) (in Rs.) (in Rs.) (in Rs.)

General Expenditure will Development of incurred as the the area maintenance of houses, tent i) Housing 50,000 - 80,000 - 1,0000 - houses for the ii) Water Supply 25,000 - 30,000 - 50,000 - workers and maintenance of iii) Sanitation 20,000 - 30,000 - 50,000 - water line. iv) Health, safety 30,000 - 50,000 - 80,000 - & Medical Facilities Education & 30,000 - 60,000 - 90,000 - Salary for Training community teachers Employment to 1,00,000 - 2,00,000 - 4,00,000 - local inhabitants, Land owner compensation, Supervisor & Headers etc. Public 20,000 - 30,000 - 50,000 - For the Transportation & maintenance of Communication PWD road and cementation of foot track. Recreation & other 20,000 - 50,000 - 5,00,000 - Organizing sports activities sports, Ramleela and other cultural activities. Expenditure for 50,000 - 1,00,000 - 2,00,000 - Compensation environment will be paid to

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

management land owners Other 80,00 - 1,50,000 - 2,50,000 - Salary for (Compensation to community land owners) teachers

Source: Approved Mine plan

10.1 Economic repercussions of closure of mine and manpower retrenchments:

All the workers being employed are contractor labours. The local residents will earn significant amount of money due to mining activities. It will change their life style. Due to closure of mine, it will create positive impact on the economy of the workers for their survival. Those earning good money will get some occupation for survival of their families. The literate workers will move here and there for the search of job. In the overall view the closure of mine will give good impact on the society and surrounding areas.

11.0 CONCEPTUAL MINE CLOSURE PLAN

It is proposed in the mining plan that mining will open from lower levels and subsequently advance towards higher elevations so that concurrent reclamation will be undertaken to restore the topography of area. Benches height will be kept 1.5m, width of benches will be kept 1.5 with face slope 450. A) Post mining reclamation.

The reclamation by back filling of the excavated pit will be started after exhausting the proposed dumping space. The total reclaimed area will be 2.54 Hectares.

B) Post Mining Plantation ` The reclamation by back filling of the excavated pit will be started after exhausting the proposed dumping space. The waste dumps would be stabilized by growing trees and bushes etc. It will increase aesthetic beauty of the area. In Ultimate life, of the mine, a green belt of 0.158Hectares will be developed.

12. OVERALL JUSTIFICATION FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROJECT

 No Monument/Biosphere/National Park/Sanctuary etc. located within core zone & buffer zone.  Method of mining is open cast with occasionally, semi-mechanization and restricted up to maximum 9m depth only.  Waste accumulated and generated will be partly backfilled at the earmarked dump

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SOAPSTONE MINING PROJECT OF ML AREA (4.203 HA) AT VILLAGE-BAMDOLI, TEHSIL-DIDIHAT, DISTRICT- PITHORAGARH, UTTARAKHAND

sites and the remaining will be backfilled, after the complete excavation of mineral.  Water requirement is 1.0 KLD.  No forest land and no rehabilitation/resettlement are involved in the mining lease area.  No ecologically sensitive area is located in the study area.  The development of the project will generate rural employment in the area.  The mining project will generate revenue to the State Govt. in the form of royalty and other taxes.

The applicant has agreed to implement all the recommendations given in report as well as put by SEAC/SEIAA constituted by Ministry of Environment & Forests, Govt. of India, as deemed fit and necessary.