DRAFT EIA/EMP REPORT
Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
JULY 2013
Submitted by:
M/s Beas Valley Power Corporation Limited
Joginder Nagar, District-Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
EIA Consultant:
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. INDIA 304-305, 3rd Floor, Plot No. 16, Rishabh Corporate Tower, Community Centre, Karkardooma, Delhi – 110092 Phone: 011-30003200, 30003219; Fax: 011-22374775 Website: www.eqmsindia.com ; E-mail – [email protected] Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction ...... 6 1.1. Preamble ...... 6 1.2. Purpose of the Report ...... 6 1.3. Identification of Project & Project Proponent ...... 7 1.4. Brief description of nature, size and location of the project ...... 7 1.5. Salient Features of the Project ...... 12 1.6. Need for the project and its importance to the country or region ...... 12 1.7. Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework ...... 13 1.8. Scoping Of the Project ...... 15 1.9. Environmental Framework of the State ...... 15 1.10. Himachal Pradesh State Forest Policy ...... 17 1.11. HP State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) ...... 17 1.12. Public Hearing ...... 17 1.13. Compliance of ToR ...... 17 Chapter 2. : Project Description ...... 22 2.1. General ...... 22 2.2. Type of Project ...... 22 2.3. Need for the Project ...... 23 2.4. Location, Project Boundary and Project Site Layout ...... 23 2.5. Size or magnitude of Operation ...... 24 2.6. Proposed Schedule for Implementation ...... 25 2.7. Technology and Process Description ...... 25 2.8. Project Description ...... 26 2.9. Assessment of New and Un-tested technology...... 32 2.10. Site Elevation, Working Depth and Groundwater Table ...... 33 2.11. Terms and conditions imposed by Director of Industries, H.P...... 34 2.12. Statutory / Necessary Approvals...... 38 Chapter 3. : Description of the Environment ...... 39 3.1. Introduction ...... 39 3.2. Topography and Drainage ...... 42 3.3. Geology and Hydrogeology ...... 57 3.4. Meteorology ...... 61 3.5. Air Quality ...... 70 3.6. Water Quality ...... 77 3.7. Soil Characteristics ...... 86 3.8. Noise Environment ...... 92 3.9. Biological Environment ...... 95 3.10. Socio-Economic Environment ...... 103 3.11. Crop Rotation ...... 113 Chapter 4. : Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures...... 114 4.1. Introduction ...... 114 4.2. Impacts on Topography and Drainage ...... 114 4.3. Land Environment ...... 115 4.4. Impacts on Climate ...... 116 4.5. Water Environment ...... 116 4.6. Noise and Vibration ...... 118 4.7. Input for the model ...... 120 4.8. Impacts on Air Environment...... 121 4.9. Biological Environment ...... 123
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 2 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Chapter 5. : Analysis of Alternatives ...... 127 5.1. General ...... 127 5.2. Alternative Sites ...... 127 5.3. Alternative Technology ...... 127 Chapter 6. : Environmental Monitoring Programme ...... 129 6.1. General ...... 129 6.2. Areas of concern ...... 129 6.3. Environmental Monitoring ...... 129 6.4. Environmental Monitoring Programme ...... 129 6.5. Environment Management Group ...... 133 6.6. Environment Policy/Violations of Environment Norms/ Hierarchal System ...... 134 6.7. Cost of Environment Monitoring Plan ...... 135 Chapter 7. : Additional Studies ...... 137 7.1. General ...... 137 7.2. Public Consultation ...... 137 7.3. Risk Assessment ...... 137 7.4. Inundation ...... 138 7.5. Disaster Due to Failure of Pit Slope ...... 138 7.6. Disaster Due to Failure of Mine Waste Dump ...... 139 7.7. Disaster Due to Surface Fire ...... 139 7.8. Disaster Management Plan ...... 139 7.9. Occupational Health and Safety ...... 139 7.10. Social Impact Assessment ...... 140 Chapter 8. : Project benefits ...... 141 8.1. General ...... 141 8.2. Employment Potential...... 141 8.3. State Exchequer ...... 141 8.4. Betterment of Trade and Commerce ...... 141 Chapter 9. : Environmental Management Plan ...... 142 9.1. General ...... 142 9.2. Pollution Control Measures ...... 142 9.3. Green Belt development plan ...... 147 9.4. Solid Waste Management ...... 149 9.5. Occupational Health Management Plan ...... 150
List of Tables
Table 1.1 : Salient Features of the Project ...... 12 Table 1.2 : Key Environmental Legislations ...... 13 Table 1.3 : Environmental Framework of State Government ...... 15 Table 1.4 : Compliance of ToR ...... 17 Table 2.1 : Annual Production Schedule ...... 25 Table 2.2 : Daily Water Requirement ...... 26 Table 2.3 : Year-wise Production ...... 27 Table 2.4 : Year-wise Production of raw - material ...... 29 Table 2.5 : Year-wise Production of Solid waste ...... 31 Table 2.6 : Conditions imposed by Director of Industries ...... 34 Table 3.1 : Land Use Details of Core Zone ...... 42 Table 3.2 : Land use details of study area...... 46 Table 3.3 : Climatological Data Station: IMD, Dharamshala (1960-1990) ...... 63 Table 3.4 : Monthly Rain Fall Data Observed at Joginder Nagar Tehsil (2012) ...... 66 Table 3.5 : Site Specific Meteorological Data ...... 68
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 3 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Table 3.6 : Details of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Locations ...... 71 Table 3.7 : Ambient Air Quality results (µg/m3) ...... 74 Table 3.8 : Summary of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring ...... 76 Table 3.9 : Water Sampling Locations ...... 78 Table 3.10 : Physico chemical and Biological Characteristics of Surface Water ...... 80 Table 3.11 : Physico chemical and Biological Characteristics of Ground Water ...... 81 Table 3.12 : Ten daily Flow Series ...... 82 Table 3.13 : Monthly Sediment Load (ha.m.) of the Beas at Thalout ...... 84 Table 3.14 : Details of Soil Sampling Locations ...... 88 Table 3.15 : Physical & Chemical Characteristics of Soil of the Study area ...... 89 Table 3.16 Details of Noise Monitoring Locations ...... 94 Table 3.17 : Noise Levels [dB(A)] in the Study Area ...... 94 Table 3.18 : Noise Levels [dB(A)] in the Study Area ...... 95 Table 3.19 : Floral Species (At riverbank Site) ...... 98 Table 3.20 : Floral Species (Up Stream & Down Stream of lease area) ...... 98 Table 3.21 : Important value index (Herb) ...... 98 Table 3.22 : Inventory of forests within 10km radius of ML area ...... 99 Table 3.23 : Birds sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area ...... 99 Table 3.24 : Mammals sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area ...... 100 Table 3.25 : Butterflies sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area ...... 101 Table 3.26 : Reptiles sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area ...... 101 Table 3.27 : Amphibians sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area ...... 102 Table 3.28 : List of Aquatic Flora and Fauna in the Beas in study area ...... 102 Table 3.29 : Macro-invertebrate inventory as observed in various sites ...... 103 Table 3.30 : Fish Fauna in the influence area ...... 103 Table 3.31 : Distribution of population by workers and non-workers...... 104 Table 3.32 : Demography of the study area ...... 105 Table 3.33 : List of SC/ST Population (Tehsil-wise) ...... 106 Table 3.34 : Male and Female Literates/Illiterates (Tehsil-wise) ...... 107 Table 3.35 : Demographic profile of the zone of influence ...... 109 Table 3.36 : Caste distribution pattern in influence zone ...... 110 Table 3.37 : Availably of various level educational facilities ...... 111 Table 3.38 : Location of Hospitals and PHC ...... 112 Table 3.39 : Occupational profile of people in project area ...... 112 Table 4.1 : Predicted Noise Levels...... 120 Table 6.1 : National River Water Quality Standards for Different Uses* ...... 131 Table 6.2 : Physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters will be monitored...... 132 Table 6.3 : Summary of Environmental Monitoring Programme ...... 135 Table 9.1 : Expenditure under LADA works (upto 15-05-2013) ...... 145 Table 9.2 : Estimate-wise expenditure under LADA works carried out in gram panchayat Balh ..... 146 Table 9.3 : Budget for green belt development plan (Rs. in lakhs) ...... 148 Table 9.4 : Year-wise Production of Solid waste ...... 150 Table 9.5 : Cost Estimate ...... 152 Table 9.6 : Cost estimate of soil conservation works (engineering) ...... 153 Table 9.7 Capital cost of project ...... 154 Table 9.8 : Total cost of environmental management plan ...... 154
List of Figures Figure 1.1 : Index Map of mine lease area in district Mandi...... 9 Figure 1.2 : Project Location Map on Toposheet 53A /13 ...... 10 Figure 1.3 : Satellite view of the Project Site ...... 11
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 4 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Figure 1.4 : Pictorial View of the Project Site ...... 11 Figure 2.1 : Surface area Map of Mine lease area ...... 24 Figure 3.1 : Topographic Map of Study Area ...... 40 Figure 3.2 : Satellite Imagery of study area ...... 41 Figure 3.3 : DEM of the Study Area ...... 44 Figure 3.4 : Slope Map of the Study Area ...... 45 Figure 3.5 : Land use Map of the Study Area ...... 47 Figure 3.6 : Soil Map of the Study Area ...... 50 Figure 3.7 : Catchment Area Map of Rana Khad upto G&D site Bagla ...... 52 Figure 3.8 : Longitudinal Section of Rana Khad (at Balh Site) ...... 54 Figure 3.9 : Drainage Map of the Study Area ...... 56 Figure 3.10 : Regional geology map of Himachal Pradesh ...... 58 Figure 3.11 : Geological Map of mine lease area ...... 59 Figure 3.12 : Hydrogeological Map of Mandi district ...... 61 Figure 3.13 : Site Specific Windrose Diagram (Winter) ...... 70 Figure 3.14 : Location of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations ...... 72 Figure 3.15 : Water Quality Sampling Locations ...... 78 Figure 3.16 : Boulders in mine area ...... 86 Figure 3.17 : Soil Quality Sampling Locations ...... 88 Figure 3.18 : Noise Sampling Locations ...... 93 Figure 3.19 : Map of Himachal Pradesh showing forest cover in its various districts (SFR, 2011) .... 96 Figure 3.20 Tehsil-wise Male Female Population of the Study Area ...... 105 Figure 3.21 : Tehsil-wise SC Population in Study Area ...... 106 Figure 3.22 : Tehsil-wise ST Population in Study Area ...... 107 Figure 3.23 Gender-wise Distribution of Illiteracy in Study Area ...... 108 Figure 3.24 : Occupation Scenario ...... 108 Figure 6.1 : Hierarchical Administrative Setup ...... 135 Figure 9.1 :Environment Management Plan ...... 149
List of Annexures
Annexure I: Mine Lease Deed Annexure II: Forest Clearance Letter Annexure III: Lease Renewal Letter Annexure IV: NOC from Village Panchayat Annexure V: NOC from IPH Department Annexure VI: Approved Mine Plan Annexure VII: Inventory of Forests Annexure VIII: Certificate of DFO
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 5 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh CHAPTER 1. Introduction
1.1. Preamble The middle course of a mountainous river presents a less steep bed slope and is characterised by landform features like river cliffs and river beaches. It is in this course, the river begins to meander and the valley sides are less steep. The rock material, which are eroded due to hydraulic and abrasive action of flow water with large velocities, are attrition and transported in the upper reach of a river, are deposed as fluvial deposit in the upper reach of the middle course. The composition and structure of the alluvium differ substantially based on the hydraulic regime of flow, the discharge, the relief, the drainage system and the rock composition of riverbed and banks. In mountain rivers the alluvium predominantly comprises of boulder, cobbles, pebbles and fine drained soil consisting of mud, silt and sand and is more often than not deposited on the inside bends (convex banks), where the water flows more slowly and has less power to transport the bed/sedimentary load. Rivers and streams by far have been the most lucrative and attractive source for extracting large volume of building materials such as boulders, stone, pebbles, sand and gravel for a variety of construction activities. Following are some advantages of using river sediments as compared to the crushing of rock-mass from rock-in-situ quarries.
Due to attrition, the material is already granulated and rounded, well sorted and generally clean Sediments can easily be collected / extracted by digging less deep pits in active channel or dry river beds of upper terraces Invariably free from weak materials and interstitial loose / fine material. Not far from cities or market as the civilization has developed near the bank of rivers Require comparatively less processing. Natural replenishment takes place annually due to transportation of sediments from upper course/reaches during high stage of river, which is achieved a number of times during monsoon 1.2. Purpose of the Report Mining activities invariably affect the existing environmental equilibrium of the site with both adverse and beneficial effects. Exploitation of mineral deposits, occurring in specific sites, does not leave any choice but to adoption of eco-friendly mining methods compatible with project economics. For sustainable maintenance of environmental commensuration with the mining and related operation, it is imperative to conduct studies on the baseline status of existing environmental attributes and assess the impact on these due to proposed activities,
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 6 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh which would assist in formulating well-addressed management plans for sustainable mineral extraction within life of mine. The main purpose of the report is to establish the baseline environmental attributes in terms of scoping clearance issued by the SEAC, Himachal Pradesh, vide meeting held on 1.1.2013, and predict identify the impacts for preparing eco-friendly management plan.
1.3. Identification of Project & Project Proponent Stone/Sand/Bajri mining lease, measuring 5.1288 hectares (ha.), is a captive mine of BVPCL, located on Rana Khad and is in Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Machhial, Patwari Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh Jal Vidyut Vikas Nigam Limited executed the original lease deed on 12.05.2008 (Annexure-I).
The Beas Valley Power Corporation Limited has been formed for execution of the works of UHL Stage III HEP (100 MW) which originally was envisaged for utilisation of the tail water of Uhl stage-I (Shanan) and Uhl stage-II with installed capacity 70 mw. Later more surveys were conducted to enhance the installed capacity of the project to 100 mw by adding the water of Neri and Rana rivulets after desilting. The water would be carried through hydel channels to the Bagla reservoir to meet the peak-load demand during the lean season. The water would further be carried to the tunnel intake through a 398 metre-long aqueduct over the Rana Khad and then through a 8.27 km-long tunnel to a 36.50 metre high surge shaft. Three generators of 33.33 MW each would be installed at the powerhouse near Chullah. For meeting a part of the huge demand of construction material, like coarse aggregate (3.62 lac cum) and fine aggregate (1.81 lac cum) required in concrete works of various components of the project, the natural available materials in shoal deposits of Rana Khad at riverbed quarry site at Balh was found suitable from techno-economic consideration for works like trench weir, W.C.S. Rana Intake to reservoir, W.C.S. Intake to reservoir, Desilting tank, Khudder storage reservoir and part of HRT. Apart from this, the quarry site was also used for obtaining stone aggregate material during the construction of UHL stage – II project (Bassi Power house (60 MW)). Therefore, the project proponent has sought the lease of the land for mining of stone/sand/bajri from this quarry site for consumptive use in their project.
1.4. Brief description of nature, size and location of the project 1.4.1. Brief description nature and size of the project The project has been proposed for an annual production of 45000 metric tonne of stone/sand/bajri by open cast manual extraction method in riverbed. The lease area (5.1288 ha) is forestland for diversion of which permission has already been accorded vide MoEF EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 7 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh letter no. 9-HPC410/2005-CHA/10458 Dated 2-11-2007 (Annexure II). The estimated net geological reserves have been assessed as 115398 metric tonne of stone/sand/bajri, out of which 86625 metric tonne are mineable. The project has no other interlinked project. The working cum Environment Management Plan as warranted under Section 21(2-A) 4 (II & III) has been prepared by the qualified person, registered with the Geological Wing of Department of Industries, Himachal Pradesh and the same has been approved by the competent Authority, authorised for approval of mining plans under 22(4A) of Mineral Concession Rules, 1960. The project activity falls under category ‘B’ (Activity 1 A – Mining of Minerals) because the lease area is more than 5ha but less than 50 ha and does not attract General Condition of the Environmental Clearance notification 2006, as amended from time to time.
1.4.2. Location and Approach to the project The mine lease area falls in Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Machhial, Patwari Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. It is located at about 8 km South of Joginder Nagar, on Rana Khad approachable from SH-19. Geographical location of mine lease area is covered under Survey of India Toposheet No. 53A/13. Location Map of project site is enclosed as Figure 1.1. The pictorial view of the mine site is shown in Figure 1.4.
1.4.3. Status of Litigation against project There are no litigations/court cases pending against the project as informed by the project proponent.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 8 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 1.1 : Index Map of mine lease area in district Mandi
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 9 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 1.2 : Project Location Map on Toposheet 53A /13 EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 10 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 1.3 : Satellite view of the Project Site
Figure 1.4 : Pictorial View of the Project Site
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 11 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 1.5. Salient Features of the Project The salient features of the project are given in Table 1.1,
Table 1.1 : Salient Features of the Project Project name Stone/ Sand/ Bajri Mine Location of mine Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Latitude 31056’30”N to31056’59”N Longitude 76047’7.24”E to76047’40.3”E Topo sheet number 53A/13 Land use Forest land Minerals of mine Stone/Sand/Bajri Total geological reserves 115398 metric tonnes Total mineable reserves 86625 metric tonnes Life of mine Continuous due to annual replenishment Proposed annual production of mine 45000 metric tonnes(maximum) Method of mining Open-cast Manual No of working days in a year 270 Water demand 1.5 KLD Sources of water DWS of IPH and Rana Khad Man power 45 Nearest railway station Joginder Nagar (8 km) Nearest state highway/national SH- 19 / NH-154 highway Nearest Forests Banon PF (NW – 2km) and Siyuri PF (NE- 2.5km) Nearest air port Gaggal (68 km) Seismic zone Zone-IV (As per 1893:2002)
1.6. Need for the project and its importance to the country or region For meeting the huge demand of construction, material like coarse and fine aggregate require in concrete works of various head reach components of the project, the natural available materials in shoal deposits of Rana Khad at riverbed quarry site at Balh was found suitable from techno-economic consideration. Considering the huge growth of peak electricity demand and anticipated increase in the generating capacity based on new projects proposed and/or under construction / consideration during 11th and 12th Five Year Plans, it is evident that there is a dire need to provide additional power to the Northern Grid to meet the increasing demand of power. New schemes have to be taken-up immediately and implemented to derive timely benefits. The EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 12 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh most important source of power development in the Northern region is hydroelectric power located in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir. The need for the UHL Stage III HEP, installed capacity 100 MW, in the Beas Basin, has therefore, been considered in context of power shortage in the Northern region in general and in the country as whole. The mining project shall provide direct employment to about 45 laborers. Additional jobs would be created by way of transportation.
1.7. Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework The emerging environmental scenario calls for requisite attention on conservation and proper use of natural resources and development without destruction. The environmental consideration in any development process has become a necessity for achieving sustainable developmental. To achieve these goals, the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Govt. of India, has enacted various acts, legislations, guidelines and standards from time to time. The principal environmental regulatory agency in India is the Ministry of Environment & Forests, New Delhi. MoEF formulates environmental policies and accords environmental clearances for different projects. The important environmental legislations in India are given in Table 1.2.
Table 1.2 : Key Environmental Legislations Name Scope and Objective Key Areas Operational Agencies/Key Player Water (Prevention To provide for the Control sewage and Central and State and Control of prevention and control of industrial effluent Pollution Control Pollution) Act, 1974, water pollution and discharges Boards 1988 enhancing the quality of water Air (Prevention and To provide for the Controls emission of air Central and State Control of Pollution) prevention and control of pollutants Pollution Control Act, 1981, 1987 air pollution Board
Noise Pollution Noise pollution control Control of noise pollution Central and State (Regulation & in residential, commercial, Pollution Control Control) Rule 2000 industrial and silent zones Board
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 13 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Name Scope and Objective Key Areas Operational Agencies/Key Player Forest To consolidate Regulates access to State Government (Conservation) Act, acquisition of common natural resources, state and Central 1980, 1988 property such as forest, has a monopoly right over Government halt India’s rapid land, categories forests, deforestation and restriction on de- resulting environmental reservation and using degradation forest for non-forest purpose Wildlife (Protection) To protect wildlife Creates protected areas Wildlife Advisory Act, 1972, 1993 (national parks / Boards, Central Zoo sanctuaries) categories of Authorities wildlife which are protected Ancient Monuments To protect ancient Conservation of cultural Archaeological and Archaeological monuments of national and historical remains Survey of India sites & Remains heritage / importance found in India Act, 1958
Hazardous Wastes Health and safety Assessment of hazardous Central and State (Management and materials and Pollution Control Handling) Rules, management Board 1989 Biological Diversity Biodiversity Disclosure of species MoEF, New Delhi and Act, 2002 conservation survey or collection State Forest activities to the National Departments Biodiversity Authority International Control and reduction of International Govt. of India Environmental greenhouse gases environmental issues such (regulation in which as emission of India is a signatory) greenhouse gases
Environment To provide for the An umbrella legislation, Central government (Protection) Act, protection and supplements pollution nodal agency, MoEF 1986 improvement of laws can delegate to state environment departments of environment National Policy on R Resettlement and Social issues Central and State & R, 2007 rehabilitation of project Government affected people
EIA Notification 14th Environment Impact Environmental Protection Project Development, Sep 2006 and Assessment State and Central amendment 1st Dec Government 2009
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 14 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh As per MoEF notification, dated 14th September 2006 and its amendment dated 1st December 2009, construction of a new project or activities or the expansion or modernization of existing projects or activities listed in the schedule to the notification shall be undertaken in any part of India only after the prior environmental clearance from the Central Government in the Ministry of Environment and Forests, New Delhi for matters falling under Category ‘A’ in the schedule and at state level the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) for matters falling under Category ‘B’ in the said schedule, the later duly constituted by the Central Government under sub-section (3) of section 3 of the said act. In the present case, the riverbed mining of Stone/Sand/Bajri in lease area of 5.1228 ha relates to mining of minerals (non-coal) project falling under project category with threshold limit “B”, and as such, the scoping clearance was sought from the SEIAA, Himachal Pradesh.
1.8. Scoping Of the Project In consonance with the provision, under section-6 of the MoEF notification, dated 14th September 2006, the project proponent has moved an application, to the SEIAA, H.P., in the prescribed Form-I duly filled along a copy of the PFR of the project. The first step, required in the environment clearance process is ‘Scoping’ by which the SEAC determines detailed and comprehensive Terms of Reference (TOR) addressing all relevant environment concerns for the preparation of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report in respect of the project for which prior environment clearance is being sought. After going through the various aspects of the river bed mining at the proposed site and the related documents like Form – I and the PFR, the SEAC, H.P. in its 22nd meeting held on 1.1.2013 set out the scoping clearance and issued ToR proposed for environmental impact assessment studies and preparation of environmental management plan for River bed mining and for submission of report after Public Hearing.
1.9. Environmental Framework of the State
The specific laws and policies that are formulated by the state government for achieving certain level of sustainability in the human actions are mentioned in Table-1.3.
Table 1.3 : Environmental Framework of State Government Sl. Legislation / Policy Objective No. 1. The Himachal Pradesh minor Relating application for mining lease, minerals (concession) revised rules, its procedures authorities and 1971 application forms
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 15 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 2. State Environmental Policy, 2005 Sustainable development of the state 3. State Water Policy, 2003 To protect and conserve water resources 4. State Forest Policy, 1980 Protection and prevention of forest and wildlife 5. Himachal Pradesh Land Control on the private forests with ten Preservation Act, 1978 years felling cycle
1.9.1. The Himachal Pradesh minor minerals (concession) revised rules, 1971 The rules inter alia provide for procedure for application for quarrying of minor minerals, grant of mining lease, restriction on grant of mining lease, various mandatory registers of mining lease, royalties in respect of mining leases, besides conditions applicable on mining lease, the rights of lessee and the rights and power of the government. In addition the procedure for grant of mineral concessions in respect of minor minerals in respect of the land in which minor minerals vest in a person other than the government are contained in Chapter 3.
1.9.2. State Environmental Policy The Himachal is the first state to have its own State Environmental Policy, which came in to existence in 2005 prior to the July 2006 National Environmental policy. By formulating this policy, the Government of HP expresses its resolve to conserve and enhance the environment and follow a policy of sustainable development. This cannot be achieved without a wholehearted cooperation of all departments (that includes project proponent also), institutions, local bodies and the people at large. The project proponent, therefore, need to plan and implement the hydro-electric project in such a manner that incorporates all environmental safeguard measures, national policies, rules, codes and regulations and above all international best practices for environmental management for the implementation of Infrastructure projects.
1.9.3. State Water Policy Both State and National water polices give highest priority for safe drinking water. Any impact on these resources of the common people is to be seen very seriously. Prior to demolishing or destruction of such structures, the project will have to provide alternative drinking water resources to the people. This new provision need to be monitored for the whole construction period to verify its adequacy in terms of quantity, quality and distance from the dwelling units. Since some underground drinking water sources of the people like Hand pumps, spring water sources may be affected by the construction activities, this policy is directly relevant to the project.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 16 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 1.10. Himachal Pradesh State Forest Policy In 1980, the State Government has enunciated its own Forest Policy within the framework of National Forest Policy. This was to meet the peculiar forest situation in the State. The policy guidelines contained are said to be still valid and cover almost all aspects of forestry in the State. Since forest and related issues are one of the few most important issues of the project, implementation Forest policy is directly relevant.
1.11. HP State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) The State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) plays a major role in environmental management at the State level, particularly with regard to air and water issues. Agency is also acting as a facilitator for Central and State environmental clearance process. The main functions are to:- . Plan and execute state-level air and water initiatives; . Advise State Government on air, water and industry issues; . Establish emission standards based on National minimum standards; . Issue consent orders (permits) for industrial air and water discharges; . Issue “No Objection Certificates” for "industrial development". . Publish statistics and disseminate information; and . Take legal action against defaulters. . Conducting of public hearing as per Paragraph -7, Stage-3 of MoEF Notification 2006. 1.12. Public Hearing On completion and Submission of Draft EIA/EMP report and in consonance with the EIA notification 14th September 2006, vide section 7(i) related to public consultation, the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board shall be requested by the project proponent to conduct the Public Hearing.
1.13. Compliance of ToR The compliance of the ToR set out as Annexure – I as per scoping clearance given by the SEAC consequent to the 22nd Meeting held on 1.1.2013 is given Table 1.4.
Table 1.4 : Compliance of ToR
S. No. ToR Cross Ref. in EIA Report 1. Year wise production details since 2006 after the EIA Section 2.8.5 Notification, 2006 coming in force. 2. A copy of document ins support of the fact that the proponent is Annexure – I the rightful lessee of the mine should be given. 3. All corner coordinates of the mine lease area superimposed on Figure 1.2 and Figure 1.3 High Resolution Imagery/Toposheet should be provided
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 17 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 4. All documents including approved mine plan (eco friendly Yes, chapter I and II mine plan), EIA report and public hearing should be compatible provide project details. with one another in terms of the mine lease area, production Eco friendly Mining levels, waste generation and its management and mining Plan enclosed as technology. Annexure VI.
5. The terms and conditions imposed, if any, by the Competent Section 2.11 Authority in the State Government while granting mining lease/ permit/ contract should be built into the mine plan (eco-friendly mine plan) as well as the EIA report. It may inter-alia include; area of working (length and breadth of the river stretch), mode of working, working shift, transportation of mineral, restriction, if any imposed for working etc. 6. Overall note on mineral reserves rated capacity and life of mine Section 2.8.1, 2.8.3 and 2.8.4 7. Overburden dumps stability study and reclamation Section 2.8.7 8. Plan of backfilling of mine pit Section 2.8.8 9. Surface drainage pattern at mine site (modification/diversion in Section 3.2.1.4 and the existing drainage pattern) Figure 3.10 10. Mineral transportation outside mining lease area (road, rail, Section 2.8.11 conveyer, ropeways, waterways, pipelines, other etc.) 11. Involvement of forestland, if any, in the project and status of Lease area (5.1288 forestry clearance should be given. ha) is forestland for diversion of which permission has already been accorded ,vide MoEF letter no. 9- HPC410/2005- CHA/10458 Dated 2- 11-2007 (Annexure II)
12. The study area will comprise of 10 km zone around the mine lease from lease periphery and the data contained in the EIA Section 3.1, Figure 3.1 such as waste generation etc. should be for the life of the and 3.2 mine/ lease period. 13. Land use of the study area delineating forest area, agricultural land, grazing land, wildlife sanctuary and national park, Section 3.2.2.2, Figure migratory routes of fauna, water bodies, human settlements 3.5 and ecological features.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 18 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 14. Land use plan of the mine lease area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post- Section 3.2.1.2 operational phases.
15. Impact of the project on the wildlife in the surrounding and any other protected area and accordingly detailed mitigation Section 4.5.2 measures required should be worked out with cost implications.
16. The vegetation cover in the RF/PF in the study area, if any, Section3.9 should be indicated.
17. A study shall be done to ascertain the impacts of the mining Section 4.5.2 project on wildlife of the area including aquatic life.
18. Location of National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, wildlife Corridors, Tiger/Elephant Reserves (existing Section4.5.1 as well as proposed) within 10 km of the mine lease should be clearly supported by a location map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden. Necessary clearance from the Chief Wildlife Warden for operating the mine within 10 km of the National Park/Sanctuary, if any, should be obtained and furnished. 19. A detailed biological study for the study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the mine lease)] . Section 3.9 including the aquatic fauna in the riverine system shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer zone should be furnished based on field survey clearly indicating the Schedule of the fauna present. In case of any scheduled-I fauna present in the study area, the necessary plan for their conservation should be prepared in consultation with State Forest and wildlife Department and details furnished. Necessary allocation of funds for implementing the same should be made as part of the project cost. 20. Impact of the project on land use including change of river Section 4.3.1 and 4.3.2 course, if any should be given. 21. The proponent shall specify distances and impacts on Section 4.5.6 nearby water sources and the irrigation / water supply schemes u/s and d/s 22. Siltation increase due to mining in water sources shall be Section 4.5.2 obtained 23. Photograph of mining area and adjoining land and Figure 1.4 videogrphy DVDs of the site features and the entire area
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 19 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 24. No mechanized mining / blasting shall be carried out. Section2.7.1 and 2.7.2 25. Impact on t o p o g r a p h y , d r a i n a g e , agricultural f i e l d s , c a t t l e fields, wildlife, water logging leading to Section4.2.1,4.2.2,4.3.2 water borne diseases, if any. It may also be shown whether it and 4.3.5 will lead to change of watercourse of the river. Modelling exercise should also be carried out through an expert agency to show the change in river flow dynamics, if any. 26. Collection of one season (non-monsoon) primary baseline data on ambient air quality (PM10, SO2 and NOX), water quality, noise Section 3.4 through 3.8 level, soil and flora and fauna, site-specific meteorological data should be collected. The location of the monitoring stations should be justified. Date wise collected baseline AAQ data should form part of EIA and EMP report. The mineralogical composition of PM10 particularly for free silica should be given. There should be at least one AAQ monitoring station within 500 m of the mine lease in the pre- dominant downwind direction. 27. Air quality modelling should be carried out for prediction of impact of the project on the air quality of the area. It should also Section 4.7 and Fig.3.14 take into account the impact of movement of vehicles for transportation of mineral. The details of the model used and input parameters used for modelling should be provided. The air quality contours may be shown on a location map clearly indicating the location of the site, location of sensitive receptors, if any and the habitation. The wind roses showing the pre-dominant wind direction may also be indicated on the map. 28. The water requirement for the project, its availability and source to be furnished. A detailed water balance should also be 1.5 KLD; Section 2.7.4 provided. Fresh water requirement for the project should be indicated.
29. Necessary clearance from the Competent authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided. 30. Impact of the project on the water quality should be assessed Section 4.5.2 and 4.5.3 and necessary safeguard measures, if any required should be provided. 31. Information on site elevation, working depth, groundwater table Section 2.10 should be provided both in AMSL and bgl. A schematic diagram may also be provided for the same. 32. Quantity of solid waste generation, if any, should be estimated Section 2.8.9 and details for its disposal and management should be provided.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 20 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 33. Impact on local transport infrastructure due to the project Section 4.10 should be evaluated. Projected increase in truck traffic as a result of the project in the present road network (including those outside the project area) and whether it is capable of handling the increased load should be estimated. Arrangement for improving the infrastructure, if contemplated including action to be taken by other agencies such a state government, if any, should be covered. 34. Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the Section 2.8.12 and mineworkers should be furnished. 2.8.13 35. Phase- wise plan of green belt development, plantation Section 9.3 and compensatory afforestation clearly indicating the area to be covered under plantation and the species to be planted should be provided. 36. Occupational health impacts of the project activity should be Section7.9.2 and 9.5 anticipated and reported and proposed preventive measures indicated. These along with details of pre- placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules and medical facilities proposed to be provided should be incorporated in the EMP.
37. Measures of socio economic influence to the local community, Section4.9 and 9.2.6 proposed to be provided by project proponent should be spelt out. As far as possible, quantitative dimensions should be given.
38. Detailed environmental management plan to mitigate the Section4.7 and 9.2.1 environmental impacts. Specific safeguard measures to control PM10 as well as pollution due to transportation should be given. 39. Public hearing points raised and commitment of the project Yes, would be proponent on the same along with time bound action plan to incorporated after implement the same should be provided. conducting of public hearing. 40. Details of litigation pending against the project, if any, with No litigation is pending. direction/order passed by any Court of Law against the project Section 1.4.3 should be given. 41. The cost of the project (capital cost and recurring cost) as well Section 9.7 and 9.8 as the cost towards implementation of EMP should be clearly spelt out.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 21 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh CHAPTER 2. : Project Description 2.1. General The project envisages open-cast, without blasting manual extraction of Stone/Sand/Bajri from Rana Khad (CA at mine site = 103 sq km), a perennial right bank tributary of the Beas, to annual maximum of 45000 metric tonne from the river bed mine lease area 5.1288 ha., for five years, for consumption as aggregate material for wearing and non-wearing surface concrete works and other works of UHL Stage III HEP, being implemented by BVPCL, an undertaking of Govt. of Himachal Pradesh, Joginder nagar, District Mandi. There is no national park / wildlife sanctuary, elephant / tiger reserve, eco-sensitive area within 10km radius of the project. The mine lease area is forestland, the diversion of which stand sanctioned.
2.2. Type of Project Stone/Sand/Bajri mining lease, measuring 5.1288 hectares (ha.), is a captive mine of BVPCL, and is in Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. The original lease deed was executed by Himachal Pradesh Jal Vidyut Vikas Nigam Limited on 12.05.2008. The proposed planning details are: Mining method - Open Cast Manual mining method Project cost - Rs. 0.04 crores Production - Stone/Sand/Bajri - 45000 metric tonnes per annum (maximum)
There is practically no soil cover as well as overburden on top profile of river bed section proposed for mining, however, if some soil is available it will be removed and carefully stored for use in plantation purpose. No solid waste other than negligible quantity of silt/silty clay, which gets deposited as crust material on the bed profile, shall be scrapped and carefully stored for depositing into the mine pits in the river bed or in the upper terraces earmarked for plantation purpose. During monsoon season, when the river reaches high stage, Rana Khad having substantial catchment (103.00 sq.km), transports bed load material and sediments which gets accredited at such stretch which has wider river width and has concave banks. The mined out area is replenished annually after monsoon, thus it does not require any backfilling. The rehabilitation/reclamation of such lease area which has been secluded for mining being close to the bank in the form of upper terraces will be done by way of tree plantation along lease boundary. Green barriers will be created by plantation as per CPCB Guidelines.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 22 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 2.3. Need for the Project A fast developing country like India, with its abnormally high population, has to keep pace with the development worldwide and thus it requires development of large infrastructure projects in the sector of Surface transport, power etc. Huge quantities of raw construction materials like Sand, Stone and Bajri mine are required in erecting vast civil engineering structures of infrastructure works. The riverbed mining for obtaining raw construction material is an important source besides rock-in-situ quarries. Hence, considering the demand of Sand, Stone and Bajri & sufficient availability in the area, it is very much necessary to have Sand, Stone and Bajri projects to sustain Infrastructure project as well as household requirement in the area and to provide employment opportunities to the locals. For meeting a part of the huge demand of construction material, like coarse aggregate (3.62 lac cum) and fine aggregate (1.81 lac cum) required in concrete works of various components of the project, the natural available materials in shoal deposits of Rana Khad at riverbed quarry site was found suitable from techno-economic consideration for works like trench weir, W.C.S. Rana Intake to reservoir, W.C.S. Intake to reservoir, Desilting tank, khudder storage reservoir and part of HRT. This captive mine of BVPCL is exclusive for extracting riverbed material and shall be abandoned after completion of the works of UHL Stage – III.
2.4. Location, Project Boundary and Project Site Layout The mine lease area falls in Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. It is located at about 8 km South of Joginder Nagar, on Rana Khad approachable from SH-19 and is u/s of Macchial. Geographical location of mine lease area is covered under Survey of India Toposheet No. 53A/13. The surface area plan of the mine lease area showing its boundaries vis/a’vis/ the Rana khad along with contour is given in Figure 2.1
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 23 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
76°47'00" 76°47'10" 76°47'20" 76°47'30" 76°47'40" 76°47'50" 31°57'00" 31°57'00" A HFL
871
N
872
HFL s B
C R
870 D 31°56'50" 31°56'50" ISLAND 865 E F Q ISLAND
P O L 868 M 867 N 866 K
864 865 RANA KHAD 863 862 861 31°56'40" 31°56'40"
865
865
860
DRY NALA
CORNER COORDINATES ISLAND
859 31°56'20" A 31°56'59.00", 76°47' 7.24" G LEGEND 858 B 31°56'55.18", 76°47' 13.12" 860
C 31°56'51.54", 76°47' 16.12" 857 D 31°56'51.6", 76°47' 17.39" LEASE BOUNDARY E 31°56'48.27", 76°47' 20.24" F 31°56'47.24", 76°47' 26.24" J852 851 853 BOUNDARY PILLAR 853 HFL 31°56'30" G 31°56'19.33", 76°47' 40.30" 855 I 31°56'30" 860 H CONTOUR LINE H 31°56'30.00", 76°47' 40.15" 865 I 31°56'30.25", 76°47' 39.35" HIGH FLOOD LEVEL J 31°56'30.36", 76°47' 38.24" K 31°56'41.42", 76°47' 32.06"
HFL L 31°56'44.6", 76°47' 24.12" 850 RIVER/ KHAD 855 M 31°56'43.27", 76°47' 22.44" 860 865 EXISTING TREES N 31°56'43.24", 76°47' 20.42" O 31°56'44.54", 76°47' 20.09" 1th WIDTH OF KHAD P 31°56'46.21", 76°47' 18.42" 5 Q 31°56'46.54", 76°47' 19.48" DRY NALA/KHAD R 31°56'51.45", 76°47' 13.24" S 31°56'55.42", 76°47' 07.27"
31°56'20" 31°56'20" 76°47'00" 76°47'10" 76°47'20" 76°47'30" 76°47'40" 76°47'50"
SURFACE PLAN OF RIVER BED MINING SITE BALH CONTOUR INTERVAL = 5m SCALE : 1:2500
Figure 2.1 : Surface area Map of Mine lease area 2.5. Size or magnitude of Operation The project involves opencast manual mining without use of machinery and blasting for extraction of 215000 metric tonnes of sand, stone and bajri, during 5 years, from wider river course / terrace of Rana Khad for a stone crushing unit set outside of the mine lease area. The total area of mine lease is 5.1288 ha. The proponent were granted mining lease for mining of sand, stone and bajri for a period of five years, w.e.f. 12.05.2008, for the extraction
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 24 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh of sand, stone & Bajri for use has already established stone crusher unit through its civil construction contractor. The project proponent has already applied to competent authority for renewal of mine lease area (Annexure III). The manual work of mining shall be carried out through the labour deployed by the civil contractor in the supervision of the project proponent, as has been prescribed in the contract.
2.6. Proposed Schedule for Implementation The maximum annual target of stone/sand/bajri production from the mine is 45000 metric tonnes . The mine will be worked on the day shift only and no mining activity shall be carried out during the monsoon season (June to September). The average number of working days in the year would be 270, which implies that the daily maximum production would be about 196 metric tonne. The annual production schedule for five years, as per working–cum environment management plan, is given in Table 2.1.
Table 2.1 : Annual Production Schedule Year Boulder Bajri (metric Sand (metric Clay Total (metric (metric tonne) tonne) tonne) (metric tonne) tonne) 1ST 20250 20250 4050 450 45000 2ND 18000 18000 3600 400 40000 3RD 20250 20250 4050 450 45000 4TH 18000 18000 3600 400 40000 5TH 20250 20250 4050 450 45000 Total 96750 96750 19350 2150 215000
2.7. Technology and Process Description 2.7.1. Method of Mining Taking into consideration the matrix of deposit in the riverbed and the targeted production, the mine will be worked by manual opencast method of mining without blasting. The opencast mining process for extraction of stone / boulder / sand and bajri primarily involves scooping the mineral through use of implements like spade, pickaxe, shovel and crowbar etc. The sand shall be separated from bajri by sieve screening at mine site. The production/manufacturing of coarse/fine aggregate shall be undertaken at stone crushing site. The loading of mineral shall be done manually and transported by truck/ tipper (9.0 to 10.2 metric tonnes), tractor trolley small (3 metric tonnes), tractor trolley big (6 metric tonnes) to the crusher located outside the mining lease. The transportation vehicles shall be engaged by the civil contractor who shall directly pay the labour cost for mining as well as for material handling ,onto transportation.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 25 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 2.7.2. Blasting No blasting is proposed to be done.
2.7.3. Raw Material Required No raw material is required for extraction of minerals.
2.7.4. Water Requirement and source Water requirement for human consumption, plantation and dust suppression is 1.5 KLD, of which 0.4 KLD for drinking / domestic shall be met from the tap water supply of village Balh and rest from khad/ river. The daily water requirement is shown in Table 2.2. Out of 0.2 KLD water 0.16 KLD of liquid effluent shall be generated which shall be discharged to the septic tank. No effluent shall be created from the water used for dust separation and green belt as it will infiltrate into the ground.
Table 2.2 : Daily Water Requirement
S. No. Activities Demand (kld) Source 1. Dust suppression 0.8 Rana Khad 2. Drinking water at mine site 0.2 WSS of IPH 3. Domestic 0.2 Rana Khad 4. Green Belt 0.3 Rana Khad Total 1.5
2.7.5. Power No electrical power shall be required for operations.
2.7.6. Man Power Requirement About 45 local labours shall be engaged for extraction of Stone/Sand/Bajri and loading and handling of mineral in mining area, besides, watch and ward and plantation activity with proper maintenance.
2.7.7. Extent Of Mechanization The proposed project is manual extraction and collection of sand, stone and bajri from Rana Khad by using hand tools. No blasting is involved and no machinery shall be deployed to extract the minerals.
2.8. Project Description 2.8.1. Geological Reserve
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 26 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh The geological reserve of the lease area are assessed by multiplying the lease area with the permitted depth of extraction i.e. one meter at each point. In the present case, the volume shall be 51288 cum. One meter from the surface is considered for calculation of the reserve. The specific gravity of Quartzite is 2.65 and of sand is 1.85 metric tonne/per cubic meter. Hence, average specific gravity of 2.25 metric tonne/per cubic meter is taken for calculation of the deposit. Thus, geological reserves are 115398 metric tonne up to one meters depth from the natural surface bed / level at any point, without taking into account the replenishment factor.
2.8.2. Mine able Reserves, Quality and Anticipated Life of the Mine In the wake of the provision under Part V (Section 20) of the lease deed, no river/stream bed mining shall be allowed within 1/5th of its span or 5m from the bank or as specified by the sub divisional committee, whichever is more. The mining area is thus, defined after leaving the 1/5 of width ,which varies from 60m to 175 meter of the river section in the lease area, that is 12 to 35 meters in the lease area , besides deducting other prohibited area. The mineable area in block earmarked for I,III and V year is 2.05 ha and for II and IV year is 1.80 ha. The total mineable area thus calculated is 3.850 ha, thereby implying that the mineable reserves at present are of the tune of 86625 metric tonne., without considering the annual replenishment.. Therefore, to extract 215000 metric tonne material in five years, procedural steps to get more replenishment of material will be adopted. It will be accomplished by resorting to digging of material from the u/s direction of the lease area in a systematic manner so that the depressed bed basin of the Khad so developed is aggraded with the river bed material / bed load in the following monsoon season. Year-wise mineable area proposed during five year of mining and the corresponding tonnage is given in Table 2.3
Table 2.3 : Year-wise Production S. No. Year Mineable Depth of Volume of Raw Tonnage @ 2.25 Area(sq. m.) Mine (m) Material (cum) MT/cum 1 1st 20000 1.0 20000 45000 2 2nd 17777 1.0 17777 40000 3 3rd 20000 1.0 20000 45000 4 4th 17777 1.0 17777 40000 5 5th 20000 1.0 20000 45000 Total 95554 95554 215000
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 27 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 2.8.3. Composition of River Bed material (Matrix) In order to calculate the percentage of various sediments found in the River bed, a trial pit was dug, at a most representative site, having dimensions of 1 m. * 1 m. * 1 m. (Length * width * depth). The content of the total material dug out from the pits were separated into four categories i.e. boulder, bajri, sand and clay found as 45 %, 45 %, 9% and 1% respectively. The percentage of these constituents is likely to vary from year to year depending upon intensity, duration and frequency of rainfall and the volume of consequent run-off.
2.8.4. Anticipated life of Mine Since the deposition of bed material and its transportation by the tractive force created during high floods is a natural and continual phenomenon the mined out area annually gets deposited. The life of mine can be considered as continuous/perpetual as long as the rate of sediment aggradations with mine area is either equal to or in excess of the rate of extraction of river borne material. The annual sediment load of Rana khad at mine site(catchment area 103 sq km)has been assessed as 283200 metric tonne(Section 3.). To meet out total production of 215000 metric tonne in five years, 128375 metric tonne shall be contributed from replenished quantity and balance 86625 metric tonne from the mineable reserve.
2.8.5. Year-wise production since 2006 The mine has been worked up since May 2008 upto May 2012 during which period 5795 cum (13039 Metric Tonne) river bed material was lifted for consumption in the work of UHL Stage – III. The year wise production is shown below.
Sr. Year Riverbed material lifted (cum) Remarks 1 2008 - 2009 -Nil- The material consist of boulders & 2. 2009 - 2010 2020 gravel used for crushing in stone 3. 2010 - 2011 1650 crusher. 4. 2011 - 2012 2025 5. Upto May 2012 100 Total 5795
2.8.6. Development of mine and Proposed year-wise production during first five years Mining in the lease area is carried out in rotation because the basin developed by extracting the material during first year of development will create space for deposition of material to be brought by river during the following monsoon season. The process of extraction in the same area will be repeated in the 3rd and 5th year of development. During the development of 2nd year the extraction of material shall be carried out in other areas located on the d/s. The
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 28 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh basins so developed will create space for the deposition of material to be transported by the river during following monsoon season. The same area will be used for extraction of material during 4th year of development. The year-wise during first five years is shown in Table 2.4 and the annual production plan is shown in Figure 2.2.
Table 2.4 : Year-wise Production of raw - material S. Year Mineable Volume Tonnage Boulder Bajri Sand Silt/Clay No. Area (sq. of Raw @ 2.25 (45%) (45%) (9%) (1%) m.) Material MT/cum (cum) 1 1st 20000 20000 45000 20250 20250 4050 450 2 2nd 17777 17777 40000 18000 18000 3600 400 3 3rd 20000 20000 45000 20250 20250 4050 450 4 4th 17777 17777 40000 18000 18000 3600 400 5 5th 20000 20000 45000 20250 20250 4050 450 Total 95554 95554 215000 96750 96750 19350 2150
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 29 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
76°47'00" 76°47'10" 76°47'20" 76°47'30" 76°47'40" 76°47'50" 31°57'00" 31°57'00" A HFL
871
871 HFL N S B I, III & V YEAR
C PLANTATION II YEAR871 Q
870 D 31°56'50" 865 31°56'50" ISLAND
870 E F Q ISLAND
P O
868 L M 867 N 866
K 864 865 RANA KHAD 863 862 861 31°56'40" 31°56'40"
865 II & IV YEAR
865
860
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ISLAND
859 G
858
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852 851 J853 853 HFL
31°56'30" 860 855 I H 31°56'30"
865
LEGEND FOOT PATH LEASE BOUNDARY HFL 850 BOUNDARY PILLAR DRY NALA/KHAD 855 860
CONTOUR METALED ROAD 865 RIVER/KHAD II & IV YEAR I, III&V YEAR HFL/LWL 1 PROHIBITED LAND 5th WIDTH OF KHAD
31°56'20" 76°47'00" 76°47'10" 76°47'20" 76°47'30" 76°47'40" 31°56'20" 76°47'50" YEAR WISE PRODUCTION PLAN OF RIVER BED MINING SITE BALH CONTOUR INTERVAL = 5m SCALE : 1:2500
Figure 2.2: Year-wise Production Plan
2.8.7. Overburden dumps There will be no development of overburden dumps in the present case, as the riverbed material is not overlain with waste material warranting its disposal in the form of internal or external dumps. There is practically no soil cover as well as overburden on top profile of river bed section proposed for mining, however, if some soil is available it will be removed and carefully stored for use in plantation purpose. No solid waste other than negligible quantity of silt/silty clay, which deposits as crust material on the bed profile, shall be scrapped and carefully stored for
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 30 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh depositing into the mine pits in the river bed or in the upper terraces earmarked for plantation purpose
2.8.8. Plan of backfilling of mine pit In case of stream/river bed mining the mining pits created due to extraction of the riverbed material are left as such for being aggraded in following monsoon season. The replenishment process is natural as the discharge flowing in the rivers / stream invariably carries sediment load / bed load (15% of sediment load) while passing over the river bed depression (basin) cause due to mining, gets deposited as in the lower segment of river section the flow velocity is very low. Thus, backfilling plan of the riverbed pit is neither required nor it is envisaged under the management plan. However, the quantity of scrapped crust material (clay) which is in excess of the quantity required for plantation purpose in upper terraces shall be deposited in the riverbed pit.
2.8.9. Solid Waste Generation & its Disposal No solid waste other than silt/clay, which deposits as crust material on the bed profile, shall be scrapped and deposited into the mine pits or in the upper terraces earmarked for plantation. Approximately 2150 MT (about 1536 cum) of silt/clay shall be produced during 5 years. The year-wise estimation of quantity of solid waste is shown in Table 2.5 , the quantity of scrapped crust material (clay) which is in excess of the quantity required for plantation purpose in upper terraces shall be deposited in the riverbed pit.
Table 2.5 : Year-wise Production of Solid waste S. No. Year Mineable Area Volume of Tonnage @ Solid waste (sq. m.) Raw Material 2.25 MT/cum in form of (cum) Silt/Clay
1 1st 20000 20000 45000 450 2 2nd 17777 17777 40000 400 3 3rd 20000 20000 45000 450 4 4th 17777 17777 40000 400 5 5th 20000 20000 45000 450 Total 95554 95554 215000 2150
2.8.10. Liquid Effluent
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 31 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh There will be no wastewater generation from mining activities per se. However, the liquid effluent to the tune of 0.16 KLD shall be generated, due to domestic water use, which shall be processed in septic tanks/soak pits built integrally with the flush compost toilet.
2.8.11. Mineral Transportation The loading of mineral shall be done manually and transported by trucks/tipper (9.0 to 10.2 metric tonnes), tractor trolley small (three metric tonnes), tractor trolley big (six metric tonnes) to the crusher located outside the mining lease. The transportation vehicles shall be engaged by the civil contractor who shall directly pay the labour cost for mining as well as for loading onto transportation. In the present case, the material shall be hauled to a distance of approximately 1km only as the crushing unit is located in the project area viz. HRT intake portal. The material shall be carried in covered trucks. For transportation of a maximum production of 167 MT raw material, three tippers (10 MT capacity) shall be deployed considering that each tipper / truck shall make five/six trips per day. Since the haulage distance and the daily quantity of material to be handled is very less and the anticipated project life is 5 years, the other means of transportation like conveyer belt / rope way are not economically viable. The lease area is having gentle slope with less than one degree moreover the pit depth would be maximum of one metre, therefore tracks for the trucks and trolley tractors can be easily maintained.
2.8.12. Site Services A very small riverbed-mining project, as the present case, much specialized facilities in the mining area will not be required. However, site facilities like rest shelter, latrine/urinal with flush compost unit shall be provided near the mine. Such mandatory facilities shall be provided by the civil contractor engaged for the construction of UHL Stage III project and who is making consumption of the raw material.
2.8.13. Proposed Infrastructure As the project will be enlisting local workers for the mining as well as for transportation of minerals no infrastructure for their residential purposes is needed. As about four tipper/ trucks will be engaged in the transportation of minerals to the adjoining crusher site, no existing public road would be utilized. The drinking water supply to the worker will be provided from existing local water supply system. The latrine / urinal with the mine rest shelter will have its own septic tank. No mining/industrial/solid waste requiring special management would be generated.
2.9. Assessment of New and Un-tested technology
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 32 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh The project involves open cast manual mining in a depth of 1m from natural surface level of riverbed without use of blasting as well as other earth moving equipment. As such, the conventional method of mining has been adopted. Otherwise also the provision of Section 21 (2-A) of The Himachal Pradesh Minor Minerals (Concession) Revised Rules, 1971, holds that, no mechanical mining through mechanical excavator including any other earth moving machines like J.C.B, Buldozer, Pocklain, Loders etc. shall be carried out in River or Stream Bed by the lease holder or permit holder or contractor as the case may be.
2.10. Site Elevation, Working Depth and Groundwater Table The average river bed level in the mine lease area varies between 871 mamsl to 850 mamsl as is evident from surface area map (Figure 2.1).The mine shall be worked up in 3 feet depth below the natural surface level of ground at any section. Two exploratory boreholes at the Rana Khad aqueduct site lying within the mine lease area Balh, were drilled to know the sub- surface geology. The geological chart of drill holes shows that the ground water table was encountered at 3.6 m below the natural surface level at the point of drilling. The trend of the ground water table follows the trend of the natural drainage and slopes in southeast direction. Thus , the groundwater table shall not intersect with the bottom of mining pits. The schematic view showing average natural surface level, bottom pit level and GWT is shown in Figure 2.3
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 33 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 2.3:Schematic Diagram of Mine Working
2.11. Terms and conditions imposed by Director of Industries, H.P. The terms and condition as set out in Part V (General) of mine lease deed (Form - F) and the precautionary measures inherently covered under working cum environmental management plan / EMP have been brought out in Table 2.6
Table 2.6 : Conditions imposed by Director of Industries S. No. of General Conditions Precautionary measures Part V inherently covered under (General) working cum environmental of Mine management plan / EMP lease Deed Form - F
10 The lessee shall do mining in scientific and systematic manner and to ensure the same.
10a Dumping sites for mine waste and top soil shall As per approved mining plan, be provided in such a way so that there is no dumping of mine waste damage to the adjoining land and the same (Silt/Clay) shall be uniformly does not roll down the slope. Top soil shall be made in gentle slope in upper used for afforestation purposes in the terraces, clearly marked in the barren/exhausted pits. mining plan.
10b Diversion dams and other engineering Provision of construction of structures as advised by the deptt. From time Stone Masonry check dam for to time at different suitable sites shall be got proper channelization of the erected to arrest and channelize the flow of flow and to arrest the bank water and also to avoid erosion of the land, erosion has been shown causing siltation of nearby natural water Working cum environment bodies. management plan and cost included in the EMP
10c The loading / unloading points in the mine There is no PWD road in the areas shall be developed in such a way that no mine area. The loading of hindrance is caused to the traffic and no material shall be done in the material is stacked within the acquired width of mine area and unloading at P.W.D. Road. stone crushers which are away from mines. Thus no hindrance shall be cause to traffic
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 34 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 10d All precaution shall be taken to check air Proper mitigation measures to pollution water pollution and noise pollution as check air/water/noise pollution per standards of H.P. State Environment have been suggested in EMP protection & pollution control board. with periodical monitoring. Consent to Establish and operate stone crusher shall be obtained from HPSPCB. There is no mandatory requirement for seeking clearance from Pollution control board in respect of mining activity.
10e Visual impact caused due to dug out areas and The dug out pits shall be wasted disposal areas shall be controlled by replenished during flood undertaking afforestation on worked out areas annually. The mine waste in the as waste disposal areas and at areas where no form of silt/clay shall be spread working is proposed. in the designated area and vegetated as per working cum environmental management plan / EMP
10f Labourers shall be provide with safety Provision for supplying Personal equipment’s like boots, helmets, ropes, ear Protection Equipment (PPE) to plugs and even nose filters, site services like the labourers, creation of site rest shelter, drinking water and first aid facilities facilities and drinking water shall also be provided at the mining site. have already been made in the cost estimate of EMP.
13 Surface collection of sand, stone and bajri from rivers/khads/khallas shall be done in such a way. So as not to cause environmental and ecological imbalance. To ensure this.
13a The lessee shall not carry any collection/mining Neither there is any railway operations at any point within a distance of line/bridge 75m u/s and d/s of 200m upstream & downstream from any the mine site nor does any NH railway line 60 m. From National Highway or exist at a distance of 60m or 60mtrs. From any reservoir, tank, canal, road any reservoir/canal at a except under and in accordance with previous distance of 50m. However, a permission of Govt. in writing or as per circular steel pipe aqueduct conditions of the joint inspection report. shall cross over the Rana khad to conduct water to intake of HRT. This structure is depressed and has been designed by taking into account the safety factor against scour
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 35 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh and not to interfere with the flow section of the Khad.
13b Excavation, below the natural surface level of The mining plan itself the bed shall not exceed 3 feet and these shall envisages, excavation in depth be filled up or suitability fenced to the not exceeding 3 feet from the satisfaction of mining officer. natural surface level.
13c The lessee shall not carry on surface Within the mine lease area, the operations in any area prohibited by any prohibited area/ no mining zone authority, without obtaining prior permission in have been delineated in the writing from the concerned authority. approved mine plan. The project proponent shall ensure that such areas are precluded from mining activities.
19 No river/stream bed mining shall be allowed Neither any soil conservation within 75 m from the periphery of soil works nor any nursery conservation works, nursery plantation, and plantation / check dam exists check dams or within the distance as within 75 m from the extremities recommended by the sub-divisional committee, of lease area. whichever is more.
20 No river/stream bed mining shall be allowed It has been ensured in the within 1/5th of its span or 5m from the bank or approved mine plan that there is as specified by the sub-divisional committee, no mining within 1/5th of its span whichever is more. or 5m from the bank.
21 No River/Stream bed mining shall be allowed No water supply scheme / LISS within 500 m u/s and d/s of water supply is existent within 200 m u/s and scheme. d/s of the lease area extremities.
22 No river/stream bed mining shall be allowed It has been ensure in the within 200m u/s and 200 to 500 m d/s of approved mine plan that there is bridges depending upon the site-specific no bridge within 200m u/s and conditions d/s of either extremities of the mine lease area. However, the road bridge on Rana khad at Machyal is about 400m d/s of the mine lease boundary. In later half of this reach both the banks and bed of the khad have, rocks exposed.
24 No mechanical excavators are allowed for the The approved working cum environmental management
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 36 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh extraction of mineral plan does not envisaged use of mechanical excavators.
25 No boulder/cobbles/hand broken road ballast The riverbed mine is the captive shall be allowed to be transported outside the mine of BVPCL and the material state from river/stream beds extracted out of mine shall be exclusively used for works of UHL Stage – III HEP.
26 No digging for more than 3 feet shall be The mining plan itself allowed in river/stream beds envisages, excavation in depth not exceeding 3 feet from the natural surface level.
28 The lessee/contractor shall ensure that his The project proponent or the labour does not involve in fish poaching. agency engaged by it mining activities shall strictly ensure that there is no involvement of labour in fish poaching within the mine lease area.
29 No blasting shall be allowed in river/stream No blasting is proposed to be beds carried out for extraction of the material.
30 The lease holder shall submit working cum Approved from Industries environment management plan before the Department, Govt. of HP, execution of the lease deed Geological Wing, Udyog Bhawan Shimla -1 vide letter UDYOG – BHU (KHANI-4) LAGHU-719/05/3399 DATED 18/07/2005.
32 The natural course of river should not be As a protection against bank the disturbed. The lessee shall raise retaining bank erosion due to mining structure where the bank i.e. susceptible to soil activity, the bank prone to erosion erosion shall be retained by providing retaining wall. The provision for which has been earmarked in the EMP.
34 Any waste material arising out of mining Mining shall be carried out operation such as some pieces grit tec. has to scientifically as entailed in the be back filled for replenishment of mine areas. working cum environmental Mining operation shall be carried out in such a management plan. way that no debris is rolled down into river & banks shall be protected by wire crates
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 37 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh structures / retaining walls.
37 The lessee shall raise suitable plants in and The plantation as proposed in around the area degraded due to excavation the mining plan shall be carried operation in order to maintain ecological out as per annual plantation balance. programme
2.12. Statutory / Necessary Approvals.
The NOC from the concerned village Panchayat for implementing the project, NOC from the IPH department for permitting use of drinking water supply of local village and the approved working cum environmental management plan as approved by the Geological wing of Department of Industries, Himachal Pradesh have been annexed as Annexure IV, V and VI respectively.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 38 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh CHAPTER 3. : Description of the Environment
3.1. Introduction
For the description of baseline environmental scenario, the proposed mine lease area (5.1288 ha) has been considered as the core zone. The mine lease area exhibits an irregular polygonal shape thus to arrive at a more reasonable study, the buffer area that falls within 10 km radius from the extremities of the proposed mine lease area has been adopted. The “buffer” study area covers a spatial extent of 314.09 sq km around the mine lease area covering the core zone within it. Therefore, the buffer zone having core zone within it, is referred to as the study area for determination of baseline status.
The existing environmental setting is considered to assess and define the present baseline environment, which are described with respect to climate, hydro-geological aspects, atmospheric conditions, water quality, soil quality and ecology. It would help in assessing the cumulative environmental impacts due to the proposed project.
As per ToR collection of one season (Non-Monsoon) primary baseline data on
environmental parameters i.e. Ambient Air Quality (PM10, SO2 and NOx), water quality, Noise level, Soil, flora and fauna and site specific meteorological data has to be done. This report incorporates the baseline data generated through primary surveys during January 2013 to March 2013 covering one season i.e. winter. The study area, covered under SoI Toposheets 53A/9,53A/13, 43D/12 and D/16 on 1:50000 scale, is shown in Figure 3.1 and the satellite image of the study area covering 10 km radius is shown in Figure 3.2.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 39 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.1 : Topographic Map of Study Area
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 40 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.2 : Satellite Imagery of study area 3.1.2. Methodology Standard methodologies have been followed in developing the base line report. The methodology adopted for the study is outlined below:
Conducting reconnaissance surveys for understanding the study area; and Selecting sampling locations for conducting various environment baseline studies.
The sampling locations have been selected on the basis of the following:
Predominant wind directions recorded by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) observatory at Dharamshala; Existing topography; Drainage pattern and location of existing surface water bodies like lakes/ponds, rivers and streams;
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 41 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Locations of villages / towns / sensitive areas; and Areas, which represent baseline conditions.
The field observations have been used to:
Assess the positive and negative impacts due to the proposed project; Suggest appropriate mitigation measures for remediating the adverse environmental impacts, if any; and Suggesting post-project monitoring requirements and suitable mechanism for it.
3.2. Topography and Drainage 3.2.1. Core Zone 3.2.1.1 Topography The proposed mining lease area, covered in the Toposheets No. 53 A/13, lies in the inner Himalayas (Western) in Tehsil Joginder Nagar of District Mandi, Himachal Pradesh approximately 66 km from the district headquarter, Mandi, exhibits mountainous topography. The core zone entirely lies in the riverbed of Rana Khad and is Forest land. The lease area lies within sinuous path of Rana Khad characterized by presence of shoal deposits at inner curves where the river energy is reduced. The highest and the lowest altitudes in the ML area is 871 and 850 masl respectively. The riverbed slope in the lease area is 16.50m / km.
3.2.1.2 Land Use/ Land Cover The mine lease area (Core zone), falling in Balh Panchyat, has been categorised as Gairmumnkin Khad in the revenue records of the district. The landuse of the core area is river body flowing in forestland for diversion of which permission has already been accorded vide MoEF Letter No. 9-HPC410/2005-CHA/10458 Dated 2-11-2007 (Annexure - II). The landuse of the mine area (core zone) shall continue to be river body, being replenished annually, even during operation and post operation (Table 3.1).
Table 3.1 : Land Use Details of Core Zone
Area (ha) S. Land Use No. After five years Post operational At Present 1. Waterbody 5.1288 5.1288 5.1288
3.2.1.3 Soil
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 42 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh The soil of the core zone belongs to soil map unit 77 being soils of sides and reposed slopes (NBSS Publication-57, H.P.). These are deep, well drained, thermic, coarse- loamy-skeletal soils on very gentle slopes with loamy surface, moderate erosion and moderate stoniness; associated with: Deep, well drained, fine-loamy soils with loamy surface and moderate erosion. Taxonomically they belong to group sub-group Typic Udorthents/Dystric Eutrochrepts.
3.2.1.4 Drainage Drainage is the single most entity, which defines the network and evolution of rivers. Rana khad is a 4th order stream during its course through mine lease area till its confluence with Neri khad which is again a 3rd order stream downstream of Machyal. Within the mine lease area Laban Khad, over which an aqueduct is under construction, meets Rana Khad on its left bank, whereas Balh nala meets it on the right bank, just d/s of mine lease area. These two drains are spring fed and carry about 0.02 to 0.04 cumec discharge during non-monsoon period and carry storm run-off during monsoon period.
3.2.2. Buffer Zone 3.2.2.1 Topography Like core zone, the buffer zone area in 10 km radius from the centre of mine lease area represent mountainous terrain with regional slope towards south east. The maximum and minimum elevation varies from 2700 masl near Devidhar and 680 masl near Banogi respectively. The Digital Elevation Map (DEM) of the study area is shown in Figure 3.3 and the slope map is shown in Figure 3.4.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 43 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.3 : DEM of the Study Area
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 44 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.4 : Slope Map of the Study Area
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 45 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.2.2.2 Land Use/Land cover The land use map of the study area, depicted in Figure 3.5. The statistics illustrated in Table 3.2, reveals that the predominant land use class is dense forest (48.06%) followed by open forest (25.64%), agriculture (15.45%) and settlement (8.96%) of the total study area (314.09 sq. km).
Table 3.2 : Land use details of study area S. No. Land use Class Area (sq.km) Percentage of Total Area (%) 1. Dense Forest 150.95 48.06 2. Open Forest 80.52 25.64 3. Settlement 28.15 8.96 4. Barren land 1.1 0.35 5. Water body 4.84 1.54 6. Agricultural land 48.53 15.45 Total 314.09 100
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 46 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.5 : Land use Map of the Study Area
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 47 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
3.2.2.3 Soil The soil resource map of HP (NBSS Publication No 57) has been used in the present study. The soil is predominantly fine to coarse loamy soil. The soil of the area belongs to those of lesser Himalayas having map units 51, 53, 56, 59 (Soils of Side / Reposed Slope), 64 (Soils of Fluvial valley) and Soils of Shiwaliks having Map Unit 77, 79, 82 being soil of side and reposed slopes. The characteristics of these soils are described hereunder:
Soils of Side / Reposed Slope Soil Unit 51
Soil belonging to map unit 51 are soils of side / reposed slopes in the study area. These soils are Deep, well drained, thermic, fine-loamy soils on very steep slopes with loamy surface and severe erosion; associated with Medium deep, well drained, fine-loamy soils with loamy surface and severe erosion. Taxonomically the soils are classified as Typic Udorthents and Dystric Eutorchrepts.
Soil Unit 53
Soil belonging to map unit 53 are soils of side / reposed slopes in the study area. These soils are Shallow, well drained, thermic, loamy soils on very steep slopes with loamy surface and very severe erosion; associated with Medium deep, well drained, course- loamy soils with loamy surface and severe erosion. Taxonomically the soils are classified as Lithic Udorthents and Typic Udorthents
Soil Unit 56
Soil belonging to map unit 56 are soils of side / reposed slopes in the study area. These soils are Shallow, excessively drained, thermic loamy soils on very steep slopes with loamy surface and severe erosion; associated with Medium deep to deep, well drained, fine-loamy surface and moderate erosion. Taxonomically the soils are classified as Lithic Udorthents and Dystric Eutrochrepts.
Soil Unit 59
Soil belonging to map unit 59 are soils of side / reposed slopes in the study area. These soils are deep, well drained, thermic, fine-loamy, calcareous soils on moderately steep slopes with loamy surface and severe erosion; associated with deep, well drained,
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 48 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh coarse-loamy soils with loamy surface and severe erosion. Taxonomically the soils are classified as Lithic Eutrochrepts and Dystric Eutrochrepts.
Soils on Fluvial valley Soil Unit 64
Soil belonging to map unit 64 are soils of fluvial valley in the study area. These soils are medium deep, well drained, thermic coarse-loamy soils on Moderate slopes with loamy surface and moderate erosion; associated with shallow, excessively drained, coarse loamy, calcareous soils with loamy surface and moderate erosion. Taxonomically the soils are classified as Typic Udorthents and Typic Udifluvents.
Soils of Side / Reposed Slope Soil Unit 77
Soil belonging to map unit 77 are soils of side / reposed slopes in the lease area. These soils are deep, somewhat excessively drained, thermic, coarse loamy soils on gentle slopes with loamy surface and moderate erosion; associated with deep, well drained, fine – loamy soils with loamy surface and moderate erosion. Taxonomically the soils are classified as Typic Udorthents and Dystric Eutrochrepts.
Soil Unit 79
Soil belonging to map unit 79 are soils of side / reposed slopes in the study area. These soils are Medium Deep, well drained , thermic, loamy skeletal soils on moderately steep slopes with loamy surface and moderate erosion; associated with Medium deep , well drained, fine – loamy soils with loamy surface and severe erosion. Taxonomically the soils are classified as Typic Udorthents.
Soil Unit 82
Soil belonging to map unit 82 are soils of side / reposed slopes in the study area. These soils are Deep, moderately well drained, thermic, fine-loamy soils on moderate slopes with loamy surface and moderate erosion; associated with Medium deep, well drained, couarse-loamy soils with loamy surface and moderate erosion. Taxonomically the soils are classified as Typic Udorthents and Dystric Eutrochrepts.
The soil map of the area, presented in Figure 3.6, depicts the spatial distribution of the soil.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 49 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.6 : Soil Map of the Study Area
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 50 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.2.2.4 Rivers in study area
Rana Khad is a right bank tributary of river Beas which forms part of Indus Basin. Rana Khad, also called as Bajgar khad in head reach, originates in the inner Himalayas (Dhauladhar Mountains) at an altitude of 3122 masl near a place called Daroti Simana and flows in North southerly direction. Near village Aiwara it is joined by Sukkar khad on its right bank. Another drainage (Gugli khad) which carry substantial discharge and is perennial meets about 1km upstream of the old wooden bridge leading to Bagh village. Rana khad is a (3rd order stream) during its course through mine lease area till its confluence with Neri khad (3rd order stream) downstream of Machyal, where after it turns as 4th order stream. About 2.5 kms downstream of Machyal it is joined by Luni khad, a 4th order stream, Eventually Rana khad confluences with the Beas river on its right bank near village Thana.
3.2.2.5 Catchment Area
The length of Rana khad from its source (EL 3122 masl) up to Balh mine site (EL 871 masl) is 22.3 km and the intercepted catchment area is 103 square kilometer. The Catchment has a shape of broad leaf as is evident from Figure 3.7.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 51 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.7 : Catchment Area Map of Rana Khad upto G&D site Bagla
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 52 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.2.2.6 River bed Slope
From its origin at EL 3122 masl to Balh mine site (EL 871 masl), the khad negotiates a total fall of about 2251 m thus implying that the average riverbed slope is 100.95 m/km. The riverbed L-section of Rana khad from its origin to balh mine site showing the zone of degradation and aggradation is shown in Figure 3.11. It is evident that the khad shows a fall of 322m in 1.2km initial stretch from RD 22.2 km to 21 km and a fall of 1000m from RD 21 km to 15.0 km. A fall of 800m is negotiated in about 10km length from RD 15 km to 5.35 km. A fall of about 129m is negotiated in the last 5.35m km stretch of the river, which is characterized by sinuous path having low rapids and pools. In this reach, the deposition of river born material takes place in the form of shoal deposits. The riverbed is strewn with boulders, cobbles, pebbles and sand. In such high gradient reaches, high velocities exceeding 5m / sec are developed. Larger particles such as boulders and pebbles are eroded at velocities exceeding 3m/sec, which is called the line of critical velocity. When the velocity fall below the critical velocity particles will be deposited or transported instead of being eroded depending upon the rivers energy. As the velocity of flow of river further decrease, again particles are not deposited but are transported d/s. Boulders are deposited quickly with the decrease in velocity and after that as the size or the particles decreases the longer, it is transported. Particles of size 1mm are deposited even at 0.1m / sec velocity. Sand is relatively easily eroded and moved at velocities 0.2 m / sec, as these do not coagulate. Clays and final silt stay afloat even when the velocity is near to zero.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 53 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.8 : Longitudinal Section of Rana Khad (at Balh Site) 3.2.2.7 Drainage Pattern Drainage is the single most entity, which defines the network antecedent river. The drainage map of the study area is given in Figure 3.9. The rivulets /nadi in the study area confluencing with Rana Khad from right is Sukar Khad and from left Gugli, Neri and Luni Khad. The drainage pattern of the area may be classified into following classes.
3.2.2.7.1 Gross Trellis The trellis drainage pattern is normally developed in the hillside slopes and usually aligned along the strike of the rock formation. The softer rocks like phyllitic slates exhibit such drainage. The trellis drainage pattern is well developed in the terraces and lower most reaches of the valley. The majority of the area possesses a dendritic to sub- dendritic drainage containing irregular branching of the smaller tributaries. The closeness of these small branches is depending on the permeability of the underlying rocks and the amount and nature of precipitation. It is the most common drainage pattern of hillside slopes of the study area.
3.2.2.7.2 Gross Radial, Local Annular The radial drainage pattern is a characteristic feature of the high altitudinal zone specially the summit surfaces. Litho logically, these areas are constituted by the resistant and impervious rocks with steep slopes. The sub-parallel drainage pattern
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 54 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh comprises a series of streams which run approximately parallel to each other. They are evolved in areas of uniformly dipping rocks.
3.2.2.7.3 Gross Sub-Parallel, Local Sub-Rectangular The major river in the study area is antecedent in nature. The sinuosity, braiding and meandering in the river course is generally noticed, although at some places, they are straight and narrow. Due to the increase of the drainage area and the discharge, the river valley becomes wider in downstream side with generally flattened gradient.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 55 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Baiger Khad Baiger
Figure 3.9 : Drainage Map of the Study Area
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 56 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
3.3. Geology and Hydrogeology 3.3.1. Regional Geology Project area falls in Mandi District of Himachal Pradesh covered in toposheet No. 53 A/13. The rock types encountered around the project site include sandstone, siltstones, claystones, clayshales and boulder conglomerate. Due to differential weathering, the rock masses show well-marked topographic expressions with bold projecting ridges of competent bands alternated with narrow furrows along wasker or incompetent members. High-level gravel terraces occur on the bands of Rana Khad. The geological succession of the formations in and around the Mine lease area is given below:
Age Formation Lithology Recent to Sub-Recent Fluvio-glacial sand, silt, terrace gravels etc. Pliestocene Upper Silwalik Boulder conglomerate sandstone, sandrock, siltstone with minor clayshale and clay-stone ------Palampur Thrust ------Eocene to Lower Miocene Dharamshala Interbedded sandstone, siltstone, clayshale, claystone etc. ------Shali Thrust (Main Boundary ------Fault)
The Mine site is located in the schuppen belt, exposing the Dharamshala and the Siwalik formations in closely faulted strips where the individual fault blocks from homocline. The regional strike of rock formations vary from N 100 W-S 100E to N400 W – S400E and the dip is of the order of 400 to 750 towards easterly direction. In the bed portion of Rana Khad, the rock is covered by alluvial over burden barring a few small exposures of sand stone and clay stone on the right side of the channel. The regional geology map of Himachal Pradesh is shown in Figure 3.10.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 57 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.10 : Regional geology map of Himachal Pradesh
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 58 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.3.2. Geology and sub-surface geology of the Area The mine lease area lies in lesser Himalayas and forms part of Rana Khad which passes through many geological formations comprising mostly of granite quartzite, silt stone, shale and Phyllite. Therefore, the lease area has boulders, sand and bajri of these formations. During the sub surface geological exploration for the UHL Stage III project the project proponent drilled hole (35.6m deep) in the center of the Rana Khad near Aqueduct site lying in mine lease area balh. The geological log of the drill hole shows that the over burden mainly consist of fluvial deposits, boulders, gravels, sand and silt of granite and quartzite upto a depth varying from 9.5 m to 18.28 m. The starta underneath below 18.28 to 36.58 m comprises of sand stone and siltstone. The geological map of the mine lease area is shown in Figure 3.11.
76°47'40" 76°47'00" 76°47'10" 76°47'20" 76°47'30" 76°47'50"31°57'00" 31°57'00" A HFL
871
872
HFL
S B N
C Q 870
31°56'50" D 31°56'50" ISLAND 865 E F
ISLAND
P O L 868 M 867 N 866 K
864 865 RANA KHAD 863 862 861 31°56'40" 31°56'40"
865
865
LEGEND 860 DRY NALA
ISLAND LEASE BOUNDARY 859 G
858 BOUNDARY PILLAR 860
857 CONTOUR LINE HIGH FLOOD LEVEL 852 851 853 853J HFL 31°56'30" 855 I 31°56'30" RIVER/ KHAD 860 H 865 EXISTING TREES 1
HFL 5th WIDTH OF KHAD 850 855
860 DRY NALA/KHAD 865 CHANNEL DEPOSIT TERRACE DEPOSIT
31°56'20" 31°56'20"76°47'00" 76°47'10" 76°47'20" 76°47'30" 76°47'40" 76°47'50"
GEOLOGICAL PLAN OF RIVER BED MINING SITE BALH CONTOUR INTERVAL = 5m SCALE : 1:2500
Figure 3.11 : Geological Map of mine lease area
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 59 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.3.3. Hydrogeology The rock formations occupying the district range from pre-Cambrian to Quaternary period. Hard formations forming hilly and mountainous terrain mainly comprises of igneous and metamorphic rocks belonging to the Jutogh, Shali/ Largi and Shimla group & occupy the major part of the area in the northern, central and eastern part. Granite and gneisses are intruded in the meta-sediments of Shali/ Largi and Shimla group. In the western and southern part sediments comprising sandstone, shale, siltstone, conglomerate etc of Dharamshala/Sabathu group and Siwallik group of Tertiary age are observed. Alluvium, terrace deposits, fluvial deposits of Quaternary period occur in the intermontane valleys, viz., Balh valley, Sarkaghat valley etc., and constitute an important unit from ground water point view.
Hydrogeologically, the district is divided into two distinct & well defined units viz. porous formations constituted by unconsolidated sediments and the fissured formations or hard rock formation constituted mainly by semi-consolidated to consolidated rock units. The hydro geological map of Mandi district is depicted in Figure 3.12
The fissured formation includes the semi-consolidated to consolidated (hard) rocks exposed in the district and are of sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous origin. These form low and high hill ranges through the district. Fractured and jointed sandstone, siltstone forms low potential aquifer in the area. In general weathered and fractured hard formation in favorable hydromorphic areas form aquifer. Fracture zones and contact zones form the important aquifers in the topographic low areas with poor to moderate yields.
The unconsolidated sediments comprising fluvial, channel deposits, valley fills and terrace deposits and alluvial fan constitute the porous aquifers in the district. These sediments consist of sand, gravels, cobbles, pebbles and boulders interlayered with clay beds. These sediments form prolific aquifer.
Hydro-geologically the study is comprised of Siwalaik & Subathu Group (Semi- consolidated). In the study area, fracture or fault zones form potential ground water zones. Ground water appears in the form of springs and also from the infiltration due to application of irrigation water and seepages from water utilized for domestic uses. At places, shallow boreholes fitted with hand pumps have been constructed to develop ground water. The yield of springs and shallow bore wells constructed along the fault / fracture / contact zones varies between 2 to 10 lps.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 60 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.12 : Hydrogeological Map of Mandi district 3.4. Meteorology The meteorological data recorded during the study period is very useful proper interpretation of the baseline information, surrounding area for air dispersion. Historical data on meteorological parameters will also play an important role in identifying the general meteorological regime of the region.
The climate of the district is sub-tropical in the valleys and tends to be temperate on the hilltops. In the higher region, the climate remains cold throughout the year. The winter snow often comes down to 1300 m amsl. Normally it melts from the end of March from
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 61 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh the places lying below 3300 m. In summer, the whole Balh valley and other low altitude are quite hot.
The winter starts from the middle of November and continues till the end of March. Thereafter the mercury continues rising till the set of Monsoon which starts from the last week of June or early July and continues till the middle of September. During October and November, the nights are pleasant whereas the days are a bit hot. Average minimum and maximum temperature in the district varies from 3° C to 35° C.
The district receives precipitation in the form of rainfall, mainly during the monsoon period from July to September. The average annual rainfall in the district is about 1136 mm with 55 to 75 average rainy days. Annual average rainfall in the district is highly variable and ranges from 700 to more than 2000 mm at Joginder nagar. The winter snow often comes down to 1300 meter. Normally, it melts from the end of March from the places lying below 3300 meter.
3.4.1. Methodology The methodology adopted for monitoring surface observation is as per the standard norms laid down by Bureau of Indian Standards (IS: 8829) and India Meteorological Department (IMD). On-site monitoring was undertaken for various meteorological variables in order to generate the site-specific data. Data was collected every hour continuously from 1st January 2013 to 31st March 2013 covering winter season.
3.4.1.1 Methodology of Data Generation
The Monitoring Station equipped with continuous monitoring equipment was installed at a height of 10 m above ground level to record wind speed, direction and temperature. The meteorological monitoring station was located in such a way that it is free from any obstructions and as per the guidelines specified under IS:8829. Cloud cover was recorded by visual observation.
3.4.1.2 Sources of Information Secondary information on meteorological conditions has been collected from the nearest IMD stations at Mandi and Dharamshala located about 66 km and 80km from the mine site in SE and NW direction respectively. In view of the fact that the mine lease area is near to the boundary of the Kangra district, as compared to the IMD observatory Mandi, the climate of Kangra district has more influence and bearing on the climate of the study area. The available meteorological data of IMD Dharamshala, has been analyzed and summarized as follows.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 62 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.4.2. Presentation of Data 3.4.2.1 Meteorological Data Recorded at IMD, Dharamshala The meteorological data was collected from the IMD - Dharamshala, located at EL 1211 masl, which has more pronounced effect on the project site. The data collected from IMD includes wind speed, temperature, relative humidity and rainfall. The monthly maximum, minimum and average values are collected for all the parameters except wind speed. All these parameters are recorded twice a day viz at 0830 and 1730 hours. The collected data is tabulated in Table 3.3.
Table 3.3 : Climatological Data Station: IMD, Dharamshala (1960-1990) Relative Humidity Mean Cloud Cover Temperature (OC) Rainfall (mm) (%) Wind (Oktas of sky) Month Mean Monthly Rainy Speed Mean Min 8:30 17:30 8:30 17:30 Max (mm) Days (kmph) January 14.6 5.6 61 58 93.3 5.1 4 3.6 4.2 February 16.2 7.1 58 54 108.4 5.9 4.9 3.9 4.6 March 20.8 11.1 50 46 112 6.3 4.7 3.8 4.7 April 26.1 15.8 45 37 55 4.5 4.9 3.2 4.4 May 30 19.4 40 33 72.5 5.1 5.6 2.4 3.8 June 31 21.3 55 49 233.3 10.2 4.4 3.2 4.3 July 27.2 20.4 81 78 868.8 21.3 3.3 5.7 6 August 26.4 20 85 84 843.8 22 2.8 5.7 6.3 Septembe 26.4 18.3 76 74 322.5 r 11.9 3.2 3.4 4.9 October 24.9 14.8 60 54 41.3 2.7 3.5 1.3 2.6 November 20.8 10.3 56 52 21.5 1.4 3.4 1.7 2.3 December 16.6 6.9 58 57 61.2 3.2 3.4 3 3.3 Mean 23.4 14.3 60 56 4 3.4 4.3
Total rainfall/Rainy days 2833.6 99.6
3.4.2.2 Meteorological Data Generated at Site The meteorological parameters have been recorded on hourly basis during the study period from Jan 2013 to March 2013 and the parameters recorded at site include wind speed, wind direction, temperature, relative humidity and rainfall.
3.4.3. Synthesis of Data on Climatic Conditions 3.4.3.1 Analysis of the Data Recorded at IMD-Dharamshala 1] Temperature
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 63 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh The winter season starts from Middle of November and continues till end of March. December, January and February are the coolest months. Both the night and day temperatures increase rapidly during the onset of pre-monsoon season from April to May. The mean maximum and minimum temperature have been recorded in June (310C) and January (5.60C) respectively. The extreme minimum and maximum temperature recorded are 38.30C (8/6/1973) and -1.90C (21/1/1990).
2] Relative Humidity
The air is generally humid during the monsoon season and the weather during other seasons was observed to be dry. The relative humidity during August at 08:30 hr was observed to be around 85% and at 17:30 hr, was observed to be in the range of 84%. The minimum relative humidity was observed during May at 08:30 hr and 17:30 hr as 40% and 33% respectively.
3] Rainfall
The average annual rainfall based on the 30 year IMD data, was recorded to be 2833.6 mm. The monsoon sets in the month of June and continues till September. The maximum amount of rainfall (868.8 mm) occurs in the month of July followed by August 843.8 mm. The maximum number of rainy days was observed in the month of August (22 days) while the rainfall occurs approximately 100 days annually. The heaviest rainfall have been recorded as 316.9 mm (6/8/1958). The average rainfall during monsoon period has been recorded as 2268.4mm which is 80% of the annual rainfall.
5] Cloud Cover
During the winter and the pre-monsoon seasons, it was observed that the skies were generally very clear. In the post-monsoon season, generally light clouds were observed in the evenings, with clear mornings. During the monsoon season, both in the morning and evenings, the skies were found to be generally clouded.
6] Wind Speed / Direction
Generally, light to moderate winds prevail throughout the year with speed ranging from 1 to 19 kmph. Winds were light and moderate particularly during the morning hours, while during the afternoon hours the winds were stronger. The season wise recorded respective wind pattern is given as below:
A) Wind Pattern during Pre-Monsoon Season
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 64 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 0830 -hr
A review of the wind rose diagram showed predominant winds occurring mostly from N and NE direction.
1730-hr
A review of the windrose diagram showed predominant wind occurring mostly from SW direction followed by SW and W directions.
B) Wind Pattern during Monsoon Season 0830-hr
A review of the wind rose diagram showed predominant winds occurring mostly from NE direction followed by E direction.
1730-hr
A review of the windrose diagram shown predominant winds are mostly from SW direction followed by W direction.
C) Wind Pattern during Post-Monsoon Season 0830-hr
A review of the wind rose diagram showed predominant winds occurring mostly from NE direction followed by N direction.
1730-hr
A review of the wind rose diagram showed predominant winds occurring mostly from SW direction followed by W direction.
D) Wind Pattern during Winter Season
0830-hr
A review of the wind rose diagram showed predominant winds occurring mostly from NE direction followed by N direction.
1730-hr
A review of the wind rose diagram showed predominant winds occurring mostly from SW direction followed by W.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 65 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.4.3.2 Observations on Primary Data The site-specific data for the study period in respect of temperature, humidity and rainfall is presented in Table 3.5.
1. Temperature
Maximum temperature of 25.9 OC (March 2013) and minimum temperature of 7.1 OC (January 2013) was recorded during the study period January 2013 to March 2013.
2. Relative Humidity
Maximum and minimum relative humidity observed during February 2013 and March 2013, was 63% and 34% respectively.
3. Rainfall
A total of 342.5 mm of rainfall was observed during the study period. The maximum monthly rainfall of 158 mm was recorded during February 2013. The monthly rainfall data for year 2012 is presented in Table 3.4.
Table 3.4 : Monthly Rain Fall Data Observed at Joginder Nagar Tehsil (2012) Month Rain Fall Data (in mm) January, 2012 132.7 February, 2012 77 March, 2012 41 April, 2012 103.5 May, 2012 27 June, 2012 53.5 July, 2012 926.5 August, 2012 781.1 September, 2012 445.1 October, 2012 18 November, 2012 8 December, 2012 40 Total 2653.4
4. Cloud Cover
The cloudy skies were observed mostly during the month of February and March.
5. Wind Speed / Direction
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 66 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh The wind rose diagram developed during winter (January 2013 to March 2013) shown in Figure 3.13 reveals that pre-dominant wind direction occurs mostly from south-west direction and mean wind speed is 1.45 kmph and the maximum speed observed was 12.2 kmph.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 67 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Table 3.5 : Site Specific Meteorological Data Jan-13 Feb-13 Mar-13 Day Temperature Humidity Rainfall Temperature Humidity Rainfall Temperature Humidity Rainfall (OC) (%) (mm) (OC) (%) (mm) (OC) (%) (mm) Max. Min. 8:30 17:30 Max. Min. 8:30 17:30 Max. Min. 8:30 17:30 1 17.2 9 61 54 0 16 7.9 59 52 0 19.4 11.9 50 43 0 2 17.1 8.7 61 53 0 15.5 8.1 58 52 0 20.7 12.4 52 43 0 3 17.1 8 61 52 0 15 8 58 51 0 21 12.6 53 45 0 4 15.2 8.2 58 53 0 14.2 7.2 57 50 26 21.4 13.2 53 45 0 5 15.3 8.3 58 53 0 14.4 7.5 59 52 16 22.8 14.3 55 47 0 6 15.4 7.7 59 51 0 14.7 7.7 58 52 46 22.4 14.4 54 48 0 7 15.4 8.3 59 53 0 17.2 8.9 61 54 4 23.4 15.2 55 47 0 8 15.2 7.9 58 53 0 17.5 9.2 62 54 0 22.7 14.9 50 48 0 9 14.7 7.6 57 51 0 17.4 9.5 62 56 0 22.8 14.8 50 48 0 10 15.3 7.8 58 52 0 17.5 9.6 63 56 0 23 15 52 42 0 11 15.9 7.5 59 50 0 16.7 9.9 61 56 0 23.2 15.3 48 43 0 12 15.8 7.4 59 50 0 17.8 9.7 63 56 0 22.7 14.8 47 42 0 13 15.5 7.3 58 50 2 17.3 9.2 61 54 0 25 16.8 51 47 0 14 15.7 7.2 59 50 0 16.2 8.7 59 52 0 22.3 15.2 49 42 41 15 16 7.5 59 53 0 15.9 8.5 59 52 0 21.5 19.8 45 44 7.5 16 15.2 7.7 58 52 0 16 8.2 59 50 6 22.7 15.7 48 43 0 17 14.4 7.3 60 50 0 17.5 9.3 62 54 4 23.2 16.2 47 43 0 18 14.6 7.4 61 53 24 18.2 10.7 57 50 2 23.6 16.7 48 43 0 19 14.6 7.1 61 57 33 18.5 11 59 52 0 22.7 15.6 48 41 0 20 14.7 7.6 62 59 0 19.4 11.4 54 52 0 22.9 15.2 45 39 0
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 68 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 21 14.9 7.8 58 53 0 18.9 11.2 54 48 0 23.3 16.7 46 41 0 22 15 7.4 58 51 0 19.2 12 54 48 2 24.8 17.2 47 45 0 23 14.5 7.7 57 52 0 19.1 13.2 54 53 12 25.9 18.5 49 46 0 24 15 8 58 52 0 20.5 14.1 56 52 12 25.6 18.3 47 45 38 25 15.1 7.1 58 50 0 21.8 14.8 57 53 0 25.5 17.5 48 43 26 26 15.1 8.1 59 52 0 22.8 15.2 59 54 0 25.4 17.3 48 43 0 27 15.2 8 59 53 0 18.7 11.4 53 52 13 25.5 17.4 48 45 0 28 15.2 8.2 59 54 0 18.9 10.8 54 50 15 25.5 17.2 48 43 0 29 15.1 7.9 58 52 0 - 24.8 17.2 47 39 12 30 15.3 7.5 59 53 0 - 24.4 16.8 46 39 1 31 15.4 7.8 59 52 0 - 25 17.1 47 34 0 Maximum 17.2 22.8 25.9 Minimum 7.1 7.2 11.9 Total 59 158 125.5 Rainfall
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 69 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.13 : Site Specific Windrose Diagram (Winter) 3.5. Air Quality The study area represents mostly rural environment. The ambient air quality with respect to the study zone of 10-km radius around the mine site forms the baseline information. The various sources of air pollution in the region are traffic, urban and rural activities. This will also be useful for assessing the conformity to standards of the ambient air quality during the mine operation.
This section describes the selection of sampling locations, methodology adopted for sampling, analytical techniques and frequency of sampling.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 70 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.5.1. Methodology Adopted for Air Quality Survey 3.5.1.1 Selection of Sampling Locations The baseline status of the ambient air quality has been assessed through a scientifically designed ambient air quality-monitoring network. The design of monitoring network in the air quality surveillance programme has been based on the following considerations:
Meteorological conditions on synoptic basis; Topography of the study area; Representatives of regional background air quality for obtaining baseline status; and Representatives of likely impact areas.
Ambient air quality monitoring stations were set up at five locations with due consideration to the above mentioned points. The location of the selected stations with reference to the project site and details of environmental setting around each monitoring station are given in Table 3.6 and Figure 3.14.
Table 3.6 : Details of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Locations Direction Distance from Environmental Station w.r.t. the Name of the Station the Mine Setting / Code center of boundary (km) Justification Mine Site A-1 Mine Site, Rana Khad - - River bed / Rural A-2 Balh Village 0.5 SW Rural/Residential A-3 Bagla 2.5 E Rural/Residential A-4 Konsal 1 NE Rural/Residential A-5 Machyal 1.5 SE Rural/Commercial
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 71 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.14 : Location of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 72 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.5.1.2 Frequency, Duration And Parameters For Sampling
The duration of sampling of Total Suspended Particulate Matter (PM10), Sulphur dioxide
(SO2), and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) was carried out continuous for twenty-four hourly per day. The monitoring was conducted for two days in a week for three months of winter month i.e. January 2013 to March 2013. This is to allow a comparison with the present revised standards mentioned in the latest Gazette Notification of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) (May 20, 1994).
3.5.2. Presentation of Primary Data The survey results for the three months study period (January 2013 to March 2013) are presented in detail in Table 3.7. Various statistical parameters like 98th percentile, mean, maximum and minimum values have been computed from the observed data for all the
AAQ monitoring stations. The mineral composition of the PM10 for silica content was carried out and it was found to range between 2.3 – 3.2 µg/m3.
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 73 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Table 3.7 : Ambient Air Quality results (µg/m3) Project Site (A-1) Balh Village (A-2) Bagla (A-3) Konsal (A-4) Machyal (A-5) PM PM Date/Pollutants 10 SO₂ NOx PM 10 SO₂ NOx PM 10 SO₂ Nox Date/Pollutants PM 10 SO₂ NOx 10 SO₂ Nox
02/03.01.13 41.2 8.2 17.4 44.8 7 18.2 45.4 6.8 14 03/04.01.13 47.4 6.5 18 46.2 7.6 18.3 04/05.01.13 45.6 7.1 15.2 48.7 8.2 16.4 41.1 8.3 11.5 05/06.01.13 48.8 7.2 17.3 49.5 7.0 19.0 09/10.01.13 44.8 6.5 14.4 53.5 9.3 15.4 35.6 8.6 12.6 10/11.01.13 44.9 7.3 15.2 48.8 6.3 20.4 11/12.01.13 42.5 8.6 16.3 51.4 7.8 17.6 44.4 7.3 15 12/13.01.13 46.6 7 14.8 50.6 8.8 17.3 16/17.01.13 40.7 9.2 17.6 58.5 6.5 18 50.6 5.6 14.4 17/18.01.13 48.2 6.8 15.5 53.4 7.8 19.6 18/19.01.13 39.3 7.6 15.3 52.6 8.5 14.3 52.2 6.9 11.8 19/20.01.13 49.8 7.7 17.8 55.6 7.5 18.2 23/24.01.13 37.2 6.4 13.8 40.6 8.3 15 41.6 7.5 15.3 24/25.01.13 46.9 7.3 18.2 48.3 7.3 16.8 25/26.01.13 39.8 7 15 46.1 7.1 16.8 45.7 5.9 12.8 26/27.01.13 44.7 6.8 15.7 46.6 8.2 16.5 01/02.02.13 40.6 5.5 14.6 42.6 6.5 15.5 40.6 6.9 12.5 02/03.02.13 42.3 6.1 16.4 50.8 7.1 17.6 03/04.02.13 46.1 6.2 12.8 44.8 7 14.3 42.5 5.7 14.4 04/05.02.13 43.4 6.6 18.6 46.4 7.7 18.2 08/09.02.13 42.6 5.1 16.3 40.3 6.8 12.7 44.8 7.5 15.2 09/10.02.13 41.5 5.8 19.2 44.3 6.1 19.5 10/11.02.13 44.8 4.8 15.4 42.6 6.2 13.3 47.3 6.6 11.8 11/12.02.13 43.7 6.7 17.5 47.5 7.1 18.3 15/16.02.13 40.5 4.5 12.7 43.4 5.5 15.2 40.7 6.1 16.3 16/17.02.13 44.9 7.2 16.8 45.3 7.0 16.2 17/18.02.13 39.3 5.3 14.8 45.3 5.9 14.4 35.8 5.7 14.6 18/19.02.13 42.5 7.5 15.7 44.1 6.3 16.6 22/23.02.13 41.7 6 13.3 41.9 6.3 12.8 36.6 6.3 12.3 23/24.02.13 46.8 6.6 15.2 49.6 5.8 17.2 24/25.02.13 42.9 5.5 16.2 44.4 7.2 15.1 41.3 7.3 15.8 25/26.02.13 51.6 7.3 18.6 52.9 6.4 18.6 02/03.03.13 56.3 4.9 15.5 45.2 7.5 12.5 44.4 5.4 11.9 03/04.03.13 58.3 7.8 18.1 55.4 6.8 17.8 04/05.03.13 46.3 4.3 14.7 48.1 6.8 13.6 42.6 5.1 13.2 05/06.03.13 51.6 6.5 21.3 57.2 7.8 22.3 09/10.03.13 50.3 4.7 11.9 50.6 6.6 14.4 45.5 6 15.2 10/11.03.13 53.4 7 19.6 58.1 6.9 20.4 11/12.03.13 52.2 5 12.6 51.2 6.9 12.2 42.3 5.8 17.8 12/13.03.13 54.3 8.3 15.5 53.3 6.3 18.7 17/18.03.13 56.6 5.8 13.2 47.7 7.1 13.6 44.1 6.5 15.6 18/19.03.13 59.6 6.2 17.4 50.5 6.6 19.4 19.20.03.13 48.7 6.1 14 45.4 6.4 15.3 38.7 6.8 14.5 20/21.03.13 51.7 5.1 18.8 46.3 7.7 21.3 24/25.03.13 44.8 6.7 13.5 46.3 5.7 16.6 35.8 7.4 13.1 25/26.03.13 53.5 6.8 19.3 44.8 8 18.5
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 74 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 26/27.03.13 56.3 7 12.8 42.5 6.8 14.2 37.4 6.9 12.8 27/28.03.13 56.4 7.6 18.8 51.6 7.1 21.0 Max 56.6 9.2 17.6 58.5 9.3 18.2 52.2 8.6 17.8 Max 59.6 8.3 21.3 58.1 8.8 22.3 Min 37.2 4.3 11.9 40.3 5.5 12.2 35.6 5.1 11.5 Min 41.5 5.1 14.8 44.1 5.8 16.2 Mean 45.0 6.2 14.6 46.6 7.0 14.9 42.4 6.6 13.9 Mean 48.9 6.9 17.5 49.9 7.1 18.7 98 percentile 56.5 8.9 17.5 56.2 8.9 18.1 51.5 8.5 17.1 98 Percentile 59.0 8.1 20.5 57.7 8.5 21.8 Standard (24 Standard (24 hr.) 100 80 80 100 80 80 100 80 80 hr.) 100 80 80 100 80 80 Free Silica content in PM10 ranges between 2.3 – 3.2 µg/m3
EQMS India Pvt. Ltd. 75 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Interpretation of the results
The summary of these results for each location representing winter season are presented in Table 3.8. These are compared with the standards prescribed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for rural /residential zone.
Core Zone – Mine Area (A1)
Particulate Matter (size less than 10 monitored in the Mine area showed 98th
percentile value of 56.5 µg/m3
98th percentile values of Sulphur dioxide and Oxides of Nitrogen in the mine area
from the monitored data were 8.9 µg/m3 and 17.5 µg/m3 respectively.
Buffer Zone (Stations A-2 to A-5)
th PM10 values monitored at 4 locations showed 98 percentile values in the range of
5 1 . 5 -59.00 µg/m3. Highest value of 59 µg/m3 was recorded at Konsal Village. However this value is well within the limits of NAAQ.
98th percentile value of Sulphur dioxide in the study area from the monitored data was
in the range of 8.1 – 8.9 µg/m3. Maximum value of 8.9 µg/m3 was obtained near the sampling station located at Balh village. The values of SO2 monitored in the study area are well within the limits of NAAQ standards.
Ambient air quality status monitored for nitrogen oxides in the study area were in the range
with 98th percentile values between 17.1-21.1 µg/m3. A maximum value of 21.8 µg/m3 was prevailing at the time of sampling at Machyal.
Results of the ambient air quality at all the above locations were found to be well within the limits of National Ambient Air Quality (NAAQ) standards. Concentrations of, PM10, SO2 and NOx are mainly contributed due to vehicular traffic and local activities.
Table 3.8 : Summary of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring
3 3 3 PM10(µg/m ) SO2(µg/m ) NOX(µg/m ) Code Locations Max Min Mean Max Min Mean Max Min Mean A-1 Mine Site, Rana Khad 56.6 37.2 45.0 9.2 4.3 6.2 17.6 11.9 14.6
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 76 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh A-2 Balh Village 58.5 40.3 40.6 9.3 5.5 7.0 18.2 12.2 14.9 A-3 Bagla 52.2 35.6 42.4 8.6 5.1 6.6 17.8 11.5 13.9 A-4 Konsal 59.6 41.5 48.9 8.3 5.1 6.9 21.3 14.8 17.5 A-5 Machyal 58.1 44.1 49.9 8.8 5.8 7.1 22.3 16.2 18.7
3.6. Water Quality Selected water quality parameters of surface and ground water resources within 10-km radius of the study area has been studied to assess the water environment and evaluate anticipated impact of the project. Understanding the water quality is essential in preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment and to identify critical issues with a view to suggest appropriate mitigation measures for implementation.
The purpose of this study is to:
Assess the water quality characteristics for critical parameters; Evaluate the impacts on agricultural productivity, habitat conditions, recreational resources and aesthetics in the vicinity; and Predict impact on water quality by this project and related activities.
The information required has been collected through primary surveys and secondary sources.
3.6.1. Methodology Reconnaissance survey was undertaken and monitoring locations were finalized based on:
Drainage pattern; Location of residential areas representing different activities /likely impact areas; and Likely areas, which can represent baseline conditions.
Two ground water and four surface water sources water sources in the study area were examined for physico-chemical, heavy metals and bacteriological parameters in order to assess the effect of industrial and other activities on surface and ground water. The samples were analyzed as per the procedures specified in “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater” published by American Public Health Association (APHA).
Samples for chemical analysis were collected in polyethylene carboys. Samples colleted for
metal content were acidified with 1 ml HNO3. Samples for bacteriological analysis were
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 77 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh collected in sterilized glass bottles. Selected physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters have been analyzed for projecting the existing water quality status in the study area. Parameters like temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH were analysed on spot at the time of sample collection.
3.6.2. Water Sampling Locations Surface water samples were grabbed from four locations and ground water from two locations which were analysed for various parameters to compare with the standards for drinking water as per IS: 10500 for drinking water as well as IS: 2296 (Class C) for surface water sources. The water sampling locations are identified in Table 3.9 and depicted in Figure 3.15.
Figure 3.15 : Water Quality Sampling Locations
Table 3.9 : Water Sampling Locations Distance from mine Site Code Location (km) Surface Water SW1 Rana Khad u/s 0.1
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 78 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh SW2 Rana Khad d/s 0.1 SW3 Neeri Khad 1.5 SW4 Luni Khad 2.5 Ground Water GW1 Spring Balh 1.5 GW2 Konsal 1.0 3.6.3. Presentation of Results The results of the water quality monitored during the study period representing winter season for surface water and ground water samples are given in Table 3.10 to Table 3.11 respectively.
3.6.3.1 Interpretation of Surface Water Quality The analysis results indicate neutral in nature as pH ranged between 6.95 – 7.48, which is well within the range of 6.5 - 8.5 specified standard limit. The TDS was recorded to be ranged between 70-132 mg/l which is well below the desirable limit of 500 mg/l. Dissolved Oxygen was observed to be in the range of.8.4 – 8.8 mg/l respectively which indicate the surface water quality is conducive for aquatic life. The Chlorides (ranging between 6.2 mg/l – 9.4mg/l) and Sulphates (ranging between 9.0 mg/l – 12.7 mg/l) recorded were well within the permissible limits (Chlorides 600 mg/l and sulphates 400 mg/l). It is evident from the above values that all the parameters are found to comply with the requirements of IS: 2296 specification of surface water. Bacteriological studies reveal the presence of E. coliforms. The Heavy metal content is found below detectable limits. The surface water quality is good for fish culture, irrigation purpose and outdoor bathing except drinking water source with conventional treatment.
3.6.3.2 Ground Water Quality Most of the village in the project area have tap water supply mostly off taking from springs as well as local springs nearby the village and residents of these villages make use of this water for drinking and other domestic uses.
The analysis results indicate that the pH ranged between 6.6 to 6.69, which is well within the specified standard of 6.5 to 8.5 limit. Total hardness was recorded to range from 65 to 70 mg/l, which is well within the permissible limits of 300 mg/l at all locations. The Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) concentration recorded ranged between 90 to 100 mg/l that are and found to be within the permissible limits at all the sampling locations.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 79 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Chlorides at all the locations were within the permissible limit, ranging between 29 - 44 mg/l. Fluorides were recorded to be ranging in between 0.06 to 0.75 mg/l and are found to be within the permissible limit. Nitrates are found to be below detection limit. Bacteriological studies reveal that no coliform bacterial are present in the samples. The heavy metal contents were observed to be in below detectable limits.
Table 3.10 : Physico chemical and Biological Characteristics of Surface Water Tolerance limits for inland surface Location water class A (drinking water Rana Rana Neri Luni Parameter Unit without conventional treatment Khad u/s Khad Khad Khad but after disinfection) as per (SW1) d/s (SW3) (SW4) IS:2296 – 1982 (SW2) pH - 6.5-8.5 7.48 6.95 7.31 7.22 Turbidity NTU - 3.0 2.4 1.1 2.3 Conductivity µs/cm - 180 202 115 140 Total S.S. mg/L - 22 18 48 36 TDS mg/L 500 120 132 70 92 Total mg/L 200 90 70 50 80 Alkalinity as
CaCO3 Chloride as Cl mg/L 250 6.7 7.6 6.2 9.4 Sulphate as mg/L 400 9.4 10.8 9.0 12.7
SO4 Nitrate as mg/L 20 BDL BDL BDL BDL
NO3 Phosphate as mg/L - BDL BDL BDL BDL
PO4 Total mg/L 300 90 80 40 50 Hardness as
CaCO3 Calcium as mg/L 200 40 35 15 20
CaCO3 Magnesium mg/L 100 15 12.6 1.8 2.6 as Sodium as NA mg/L - 4 3 2 3.5 Potassium as mg/L - 1 1.5 1 1 K Fluoride as Fl mg/L 1.5 0.06 0.04 0.08 0.10 Iron as Fe mg/L 0.3 0.14 0.19 0.12 0.16 Cadmium as mg/L 0.01 BDL BDL BDL BDL Cd
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 80 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Chromium as mg/L 0.05 BDL BDL BDL BDL Cr6+ Lead as Pb mg/L 0.1 BDL BDL BDL BDL Zinc as Zn mg/L 15 BDL BDL BDL BDL Manganese as mg/L 0.5 BDL BDL BDL BDL Mn Copper as Cu mg/L 1.5 BDL BDL BDL BDL Nickel as Ni mg/L - BDL BDL BDL BDL Total MPN/1 50 16 19 26 14 Coliforms 00ml E-Coli MPN/1 - 7 10 14 5 00ml Dissolved mg/L 6 8.7 8.8 8.4 8.5 Oxygen COD mg/L - 12.0 9.4 10.2 13.4 BOD (5 days mg/L 2 3.7 2.8 3.4 4.0 at 200C) Oil & Grease mg/L 0.01 BDL BDL BDL BDL Arsenic as As mg/L 0.05 BDL BDL BDL BDL Selenium as mg/L 0.01 BDL BDL BDL BDL Se Mercury as Hg mg/L 0.001 BDL BDL BDL BDL
Table 3.11 : Physico chemical and Biological Characteristics of Ground Water Drinking water specification as per Location (IS:10500) Parameter Unit Desirable limit Permissible Limit Balh Spring Konsal in absence of (Drinking (Drinking alternate source Water) Water) pH - 6.5-8.5 No relaxation 6.69 6.60 Turbidity NTU 5 10 2.6 1.2 Conductivity µs/cm 168 152 TDS mg/L 500 2000 100 90 Total mg/L 200 600 80 60 Alkalinity Chloride mg/L 250 1000 29.35 44.02 Sulphate mg/L 200 400 32.84 11.26 Nitrate mg/L 45 No relaxation BDL BDL Phosphate mg/L - - 0.04 BDL Total mg/L 300 600 70 65 Hardness
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 81 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Calcium mg/L 75 200 34 22 Magnesium mg/L 30 100 9 8.1 Sodium mg/L - - 7.4 8.5 Potassium mg/L - - 4.2 2.8 Fluoride as mg/L 1.0 1.5 0.75 0.06 F Iron as Fe mg/L 0.3 1.0 0.09 0.22 Cadmium mg/L 0.003 No relaxation BDL BDL Total mg/L 0.05 No relaxation BDL BDL Chromium Lead as Le mg/L 0.01 No relaxation BDL BDL Zinc as Zn mg/L 5 15 BDL BDL Manganese mg/L 0.1 0.03 0.07 0.02 Copper as mg/L 0.05 1.5 BDL BDL Cu Nickel as Ni mg/L 0.02 No relaxation BDL BDL Total MPN/100ml Must not be Must not be Absent Absent Coliforms detected in any detected in any 100ml 100ml E-Coli MPN/100ml Must not be Must not be Absent Absent detected in any detected in any 100ml 100ml Boron as B mg/L 0.3 1.5 BDL BDL
3.6.4. Hydrology of Rana Khad The hydraulic action of flowing water hits against riverbanks and beds. Flowing water surges into the cracks and breaks and loosen pieces of rock and soil, thus the eroded sediment from the catchment can be transported to the d/s by the flow of water. Therefore, an assessment of the discharge at the point of intervention is essential as it shows the pattern of flow during a year.
Based upon the ten-daily extended/observed discharge data of Rana khad near Bagla G&D site for long term (June 1974 to May 1998), it is evident that in 90% dependable year, the minimum and the maximum flow observed are 1.6 and 21.11 cumec respectively. The maximum observed average ten-daily discharge at G&D site Bagla is 53.39 cumec. The 10 daily flow series at G&D site bagla in 90% dependable year is shown in Table 3.12.
Table 3.12 : Ten daily Flow Series Month Ten-daily In flow in 90 % In flow in 90 % dependable year dependable year(MCM) (cumec)
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 82 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh i 1.6 1.3824 June II 3.66 3.16224 III 3 2.592 July i 9.63 8.32032 II 13.91 12.01824 III 15.29 14.531616 August i 13.55 11.7072 II 15.79 13.64256 III 21.11 20.06294 September i 17.97 15.52608 II 10.28 8.88192 III 9.8 8.4672 October i 7.27 6.28128 II 4.95 4.2768 III 4.52 4.295808 November i 3.97 3.43008 II 3.82 3.30048 III 3.61 3.11904 December i 3.31 2.85984 II 3.33 2.87712 III 3.56 3.383424 January i 5.1 4.43232 II 3.72 3.21408 III 3.42 3.250368 February i 3.48 3.00672 II 3.11 2.68704 III 2.79 2.169504 March i 2.39 2.06496 II 2.15 1.8576 III 2.14 2.033856 April i 2.35 2.0304 II 2.09 1.80576 III 1.88 1.62432 May i 2.15 1.8576 II 1.99 1.71936 III 1.78 1.61712 Total 189.4896
3.6.5. SEDIMENT YIELD FROM WATERSHED The rate of gross or absolute silt production (erosion) in the watershed and the ability of the stream system to transport the eroded material in a river and then to a reservoir has the
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 83 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh direct relation with the quantity of sediment delivered into a reservoir. The rate of gross erosion is dependent upon many physical factors live climatic conditions, nature of soil, slope of the area, topography and the land use. Hydro-physical conditions of the watershed govern the capability of transporting the eroded material. It has been observed that the average rate of sediment production decreases as the size of drainage area increase and the larger watershed the lesser is the variation between the rates. The larger watershed presents more opportunity for deposition of silt during its traverse from the point of production. The watershed with maximum land use class of forest generate very low rate of production unless the forest are degraded or open forest. The cultivated watersheds with unscientific farming produce very high rate of silt production. The total amount of eroded material, which reaches a particular hydraulic control point, is termed as sediment yield. The sediment control of inflow is governed by the following significant factors:
(i) Character of run-off (ii) Susceptibility of soils (iii) The extent and density of vegetative cover in the area (iv) The hydraulic efficiency of the drainage system. \
Sediment sampling over a substantially long period is a suitable and logical method of obtaining on information of sediment load being carried out by a stream. No sediment load observation have been made in the case of any stage of the Uhl HEP, as these are mainly R- O-R schemes. In the absence of silt studies, either in the Basin of Uhl Khad or Rana khad, it is prudent to rely on silt studies carried out in the Beas basin. The study of sediment load of the Beas has been carried out at a place called Thalout about 1 km downstream of Larji dam on the Beas by the Sediment Research Laboratory, BBMB, Pandoh over the years 2002 to 2006 i.e. before the commissioning of the Larji dam. The results of the daily sampling has been treated as average daily sediment load and on its basis the average annual yield of sediment at the site has been worked out. The month wise silt load during various years is enumerated in Table 3.13.
Table 3.13 : Monthly Sediment Load (ha.m.) of the Beas at Thalout Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total
2002 0.28 0.55 8.03 22.13 36.60 61.82 125.59 31.62 1.44 0.40 0.31 288.75
2003 0.19 0.27 1.44 5.11 9.58 33.97 105.98 65.59 22.08 2.07 0.54 0.26 247.08
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 84 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 2004 0.23 0.33 0.76 1.13 10.81 24.87 85.68 1184.13 25.51 7.27 0.55 0.27 1341.53
2005 0.24 0.72 4.42 5.21 9.28 52.11 362.02 37.34 24.32 4.02 0.75 0.28 500.70
2006 0.23 0.36 0.79 2.28 10.40 8.60 68.48 117.85 23.03 232.04
Total 1.16 2.23 7.41 21.77 62.19 156.16 683.97 1530.50 126.57 14.79 2.24 1.11 2610.10
Thus on the basis of the average annual value of the suspended sediment load and assuming 15% bed load, the silt rate of the Beas at Thalout has been assessed as 12.22 ha.m./100 sq km / year.
3.6.6. Computation of annual Sedimentation load: Based on ten-daily silt load and discharge of Beas at Thalout for period 2002 to 2006, the sediment rate is worked out as under.
Total sediment load for 5 years observed at Thalout=2610.1 ham
Thus total sediment load for 1 year/hundred sq km = 2610.1 / 5 / 49.21 = 10.61 ham / 100 sq km/year
Bed load at 15 % of =1.60 ham/100 sq km/year=
Gross sediment load =10.61+1.61=12.21ham/100 sq km/year
Annual sediment load /sq km =0.1222 ham=1222 cum
Annual Sediment load in 103.00sq km=125866 cum
Annual Sediment load in metric ton @ 2.25 MT/cum=283200 MT of RBM
The sediment load, deposited as river borne material (RBM), shall be intercepted up to the mine lease area shall get deposited at such reaches where the river section shows excessive and repetitive sinuous path and where the river bed slope is very gentle such that during high stage of the river the flow velocity falls below 3 meter/sec, the particles are deposited are depending upon the rivers energy. In the present case Rana khad exhibits sinuous path after its confluence with Gugli khad. The maximum annual extraction of RBM from the mine lease area is 45000 metric tons only. Thus considering the rotational method of mining in segregated zone and for maximum ROM of 45000metric tons the mining can be safely done at 5 to 6 depositional places. Thus, it is feasible to take out 45000 metric tons of RBM/year during the course of running of the riverbed mine in question. The annual deposition rate at
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 85 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh the mining site varies from 1 to 3 cm depending upon the curvature of the river section. At some places it may exceeds 3 cm.
3.6.7. Competency of river: Competency of a river is a measure of the maximum size of the river borne material a river is capable of transporting and it is directly dependent upon the velocity of flow of the river. The competence of a river increases as square of its velocity. The maximum load of solid particles a river can transport is termed as its capacity. The greater the discharge in the river, the greater shall be the capacity for hauling the sediments. The higher velocities are developed when the rivers are in high stage. In the present case, Rana Khad, a hilly river, from its origin at EL 3122 masl to Balh mine site (EL 871 masl), the khad negotiates a total fall of about 2251 m thus implying that the average river bed slope is 100.95 m/km. Such high bed gradient are capable of generating high velocities. On an average the competency of stream at the point of mining site is 120 to 90cm x 60 to 90 cm x 60 x 30 cm. (Figure 3.16)
Figure 3.16 : Boulders in mine area 3.7. Soil Characteristics Soil fertility is an aspect of the soil-plant relationship. Fertility status of the soils is primarily and importantly dependent upon both the macro and micronutrient reserve of that soil. Continued removal of nutrients by crops, with little or no replacement will increase the nutrient stress in plants and ultimately lowers the productivity. The fertility status of the soils mainly depends on the nature of vegetation, climate, and topography, texture of soil and decomposition rate of organic matter. Optimum productivity of any cropping systems depends on adequate supply of plant nutrients
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 86 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh The fertility of the soil depends on the concentration of N, P, K, organic and inorganic materials and water. Nitrogen is required for growth of plant and is a constituent of chlorophyll, plant protein, and nucleic acids. Phosphorus is most often limiting nutrients remains present in plant cell nuclei and act as energy storage. It helps in transfer of energy. Potassium is found in its mineral form and affect plant cell division, carbohydrate formation, translocation of sugar, various enzyme actions and resistance to certain plant disease, over 60 enzymes are known to require potassium for activation.
It is essential to determine the potential of soil in the area to identify the current impacts of urbanization and industrialization on soil quality and also predict impacts, which may arise due to the project operations. Accordingly, a study of assessment of the baseline soil quality has been carried out.
3.7.1. Data Generation For studying soil profile of the region, four sampling locations were selected to assess the existing soil conditions in and around the Mine area representing various land use conditions. The samples have been collected from three different depths from 5 to 15cm and representative samples prepared by thoroughly mixing. The homogenized samples were analysed for physical and chemical characteristics.
The details of the sampling locations are given in Table 3.14 and are shown in Figure 3.17. The soil quality at all the location during the study period is tabulated in Table 3.15. The results are compared with standard classification given in Table 3.15.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 87 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.17 : Soil Quality Sampling Locations
Table 3.14 : Details of Soil Sampling Locations Location Distance from Bearing w.r.t Location Present Land Use code Mine Site (km) Mine Site S1 Mine site -- River bed S2 Balh 0.75 SW Agriculture Land S3 Konsal 1.5 NE Agriculture Land S4 Machyal 1.5 SE Agriculture Land
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 88 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Table 3.15 : Physical & Chemical Characteristics of Soil of the Study area Location Parameter Project Site Balh Konsal Machyal (Agriculture (River Soil) (Forest Soil) (Agriculture Soil) Soil) Grain Size Distribution - - - Sand (%) 88.6 81.5 73.2 71.5 Silt (%) 7.0 11.0 15.3 18.3 Clay (%) 5.4 7.5 11.5 10.2 Texture Sand Loamy Sand Sandy loam Sandy loam pH 7.09 6.81 7.15 7.22 EC (µmhos/cm) 42.5 67.4 74.3 75.2 Bulk Density (g/cc) 1.69 1.63 1.55 1.57 SAR 0.38 0.18 0.16 0.17 Nitrogen (mg/kg) 28 73 90 95 P as PO4 (mg/kg) 3.8 5.4 9.2 9.6 K (mg/kg) 21.8 25.0 50.4 59.4 Ca (mg/kg) 407 312 459 472 Mg (mg/kg) 232 204 267 283 Na (mg/kg) 12.4 16.7 17.8 19.3 Organic Carbon (%) 0.25 0.35 0.65 0.72 Manganese (mg/kg) 16.8 18.8 21.9 23.6 Zinc (mg/kg) 1.3 1.47 2.43 2.52 Boron (mg/kg) 1.57 3.16 7.3 8.2
3.7.2. Soil reaction classes and critical limits for Macro and Micro nutrients in soil According to Soil Survey Manual (IARI, 1970), the soils are grouped under different soil reaction classes viz extremely acidic (pH<4.5), very strongly acidic (pH 4.5 – 5.0 ), strongly acidic (pH 5.1 – 5.5), moderately acidic (pH 5.6-6.0), slightly acidic (pH 6.1-6.5), neutral (pH 6.6- 7.3), slightly alkaline (pH 7.4-7.8), moderately alkaline (pH 7.9-8.4), strongly alkaline (pH 8.5-9.0).The soils are rated as low (below 0.50 %), medium (0.50-0.75 %) and high (above 0.75 %) in case of organic carbon, low (<280 kg ha-1), medium (280 to 560 kg ha-1) and high (>560 kg ha-1) in case of available nitrogen, low (< 10 kg ha-1), medium (10 to 25 kg ha-1) and high (> 25 kg ha-1) for available phosphorus, low (< 108 kg ha-1), medium (108 to 280 kg ha-1) and high (> 280 kg ha-1) for available potassium and low (<10 mg kg-1), medium (10-20 mg kg-1) and high (> 20 mg kg-1) for available sulphur (Singh et. al. 2004, Mehta et. al.1988). Critical limits of Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu and B, which separate deficient from non-deficient soils followed in India are 4.5, 2.0, 0.5, 0.2 and 0.5 mg kg-1 respectively. (Follet and Lindsay, 1970 and Berger and Truog, 1940).
3.7.3. Interpretation of Soil Characteristics
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 89 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Interpretation of Soil Characteristic has been dwelled in following sub-sections
3.7.3.1 Soil Texture The soils of study area are mountainous soil. As per grain size distribution the % of sand in four samples varied from 71.5% to 88.6%, silt varied from 7 to 18.3% and clay from 5.4% to 11.5%. Thus the soil texture ranges from Sand to Sandy loam as per triangular classification of soil texture.
3.7.3.2 Soil Reaction Soil pH is an important soil property, which affects the availability of several plant nutrients. It is a measure of acidity and alkalinity and reflects the status of base saturation. The soil pH ranges from 6.81 to 7.22, thereby indicating the soil is neutral.
3.7.3.3 Organic Carbon The effect of soil organic matter on soil properties is well recognized. Soil organic matter plays a vital role in supplying plant nutrients, cation exchange capacity, improving soil aggregation and hence water retention and soil biological activity. The Organic Carbon content of soil varied from 0.25% to 0.73%, thereby implying that soils are low to medium in organic content.
3.7.3.4 Macronutrients Nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) are considered as primary nutrients and sulphur (S) as secondary nutrient. These nutrients help in proper growth, development and yield differentiation of plants and are generally required by plants in large quantity.
Available Nitrogen Nitrogen is an integral component of many compounds including chlorophyll and enzyme essential for plant growth. It is an essential constituent for amino acids which is building blocks for plant tissue, cell nuclei and protoplasm. It encourage aboveground vegetative growth and deep green colour to leaves. Deficiency of nitrogen decreases rate and extent of protein synthesis and result into stunted growth and develop chlorosis. Available nitrogen content in the surface soils ranges between 28 and 95 mg/kg (71.0
kg/ha- 202kg/ha) thereby indicating that soils are low in available nitrogen content.
Available Phosphorus
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 90 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Phosphorus is important component of adenosine di-phosphate (ADP) and adenosine tri- phosphate (ATP), which involves in energy transformation in plant. It is essential component of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), the seat of genetic inheritance in plant and animal. Phosphorous take part in important functions like photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation, crop maturation, root development, strengthening straw in cereal crops etc. The availability of phosphorous is restricted under acidic and alkaline soil reaction mainly due to P-fixation. In acidic condition it get fixed with aluminum and iron and in alkaline condition with calcium. Available phosphorus content ranges between 3.8 and 9.6 mg/kg( 9.63kg/ha-22.6kg/ha) thereby indicating that soils are low to medium in available phosphorus.
Available Potassium
Potassium is an activator of various enzymes responsible for plant processes like energy metabolism, starch synthesis, nitrate reduction and sugar degradation. It is extremely mobile in plant and help to regulate opening and closing of stomata in the leaves and uptake of water by root cells. It is important in grain formation and tuber development and encourages crop resistance for certain fungal and bacterial diseases.
Available potassium content in these soils ranges between 21,8 and 59.4mg/kg (55.3kg/ha- 140kg/ha) thereby indicating that the soils are low to medium in potassium content.
3.7.3.5 Micronutrients
Proper understanding of micronutrients availability in soils and extent of their deficiencies is the pre-requisite for efficient management of micronutrient fertilizer to sustain crop productivity. Therefore, it is essential to know the micronutrients status of soil before introducing any type of land use.
Available Manganese
Manganese is essential in photosynthesis and nitrogen transformations in plants. It activates decarboxylase, dehydrogenase, and oxidase enzymes. The available manganese content in surface soils ranges between 16.8 and 23.6 mg kg-1. As per the critical limit of available manganese (> 2 mg kg-1), all the soils are sufficient in available manganese.
Available Zinc
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 91 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Zinc plays role in protein synthesis, reproductive process of certain plants and in the formation starch and some growth hormones. It promotes seed maturation and production. The available zinc in surface soils ranges between 1.3 and 2.52 mg kg-1 and is sufficient (>0.5 mg kg-1).
Available Boron
Boron increases solubility and mobility of calcium in the plant and it act as regulator of K/Ca ratio in the plant. It is required for development of new meristematic tissue and also necessary for proper pollination, fruit and seed setting and translocation of sugar, starch and phosphorous etc. It has role in synthesis of amino acid and protein and regulates carbohydrate metabolism.
The available boron content in the soils ranges from 1.57 to 8.2 mg/kg-1. The critical limit for deficiency of the available boron is <0.5. mg kg-
3.8. Noise Environment
The environmental assessment of noise from the industrial activity, construction activity and vehicular traffic can be undertaken by taking into consideration various factors like potential damage to hearing, physiological responses, and annoyance and general community responses.
The impact of noise sources on surrounding community depends on:
Characteristics of noise sources (instantaneous, intermittent or continuous in nature). It can be observed that steady noise is not as annoying as one which is continuously varying in loudness. The time of day at which noise occurs, for example high noise levels at night in residential areas are not acceptable because of sleep disturbance and The location of the noise sources, with respect to noise sensitive landuse, which determines the loudness and period of exposure.
The environmental impact of noise can have several effects varying from Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) to annoyance depending on loudness of noise. The environmental impact assessment of noise from the project operation, vehicular traffic can be undertaken by
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 92 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh taking into consideration various factors like potential damage to hearing, physiological responses, and annoyance and general community responses.
3.8.1. Identification of Sampling Locations
A preliminary reconnaissance survey has been undertaken to identify the major noise generating sources in the area. Noise at different generating sources has been identified based on the activities in the village area and traffic.
The noise monitoring has been conducted for determination of ambient noise levels in the study area. The noise level at each location were recorded for 24 hrs. The environment setting of noise monitoring locations is given in Table 3.16 and shown in Figure 3.18.
Figure 3.18 : Noise Sampling Locations
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 93 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Table 3.16 Details of Noise Monitoring Locations Location Noise Sampling Distance from Direction w.r.t. Environmental Code Location Mine State, km Mine Site Setting N1 Mine site - - Mine area N2 Konsal Village 1.5 - Mine area N3 Balh 1.0 NNW Commercial N4 Machyal 1.5 E Rural / residential
3.8.2. Method of Monitoring
Sound Pressure Level (SPL) measurements were measured at all locations. The readings were taken for every hour for 24 hrs. The day noise levels have been monitored during 6 am to 10 pm and night levels during 10 pm to 6 am at all the locations within study area. The hourly noise levels monitored during day time and night time in winter season are presented in Table 3.17 and the Leq day time and night time noise levels and Leq day and night time noise levels at each of the sampling location are presented in Table 3.18.
Table 3.17 : Noise Levels [dB(A)] in the Study Area Location Hours Project Site (N-1) Konsal (N-2) Balh (N-3) Macchail (N-4) Day Time 06-07 72.3 50.5 42.8 58.1 07-08 70.7 57.7 55.2 59.3 08-09 71.1 60.6 56.3 60.4 09-10 72.5 65.4 61.6 55.8 10-11 71.8 62.3 58.9 57.6 11-12 70.3 60.4 55.8 58.2 12-13 71.6 58.6 53.2 61.7 13-14 72.4 55.6 55.5 55.8 14-15 72.7 53.3 51.3 56.3 15-16 70.8 51.7 60.2 57.7 16-17 71.7 54.2 62.2 61.1 17-18 72.3 60.5 59.5 61.5 18-19 72.0 62.5 55.4 55.6 19-20 71.5 63.4 52.3 55.3 20-21 72.5 60.3 51.7 54.6 21-22 72.0 58.8 47.6 52.2 Lmax (Day) 72.7 65.4 62.2 61.7
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 94 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Lmin (Day) 70.3 50.5 42.8 52.2 Leq (Day) 71.8 60.2 57.2 58.4 Night Time 22-23 71.5 50.2 44.3 50.5 23-00 71.4 44.2 44.6 44.2 00-01 71.6 40.6 41.3 40.4 01-02 70.2 40.4 42.6 40.3 02-03 72.3 40.3 40.4 42.4 03-04 72.5 40.8 39.0 42.9 04-05 72.0 41.0 38.5 41.2 05-06 71.4 41.7 40.6 42.2 Lmax (Night) 72.5 50.2 44.6 50.5 Lmin (Night) 70.2 40.3 38.5 40.3 Leq (Night) 71.7 44.1 41.9 44.5 Leq (Day and Night) 71.8 58.5 55.5 56.7
Table 3.18 : Noise Levels [dB(A)] in the Study Area Location Noise Sampling Leq day, dB(A) Leq night, dB(A) Leq day and Code Location night, dB(A) N1 Mine site 71.8 71.7 71.8 N2 Konsal Village 60.2 44.1 58.5 N3 Balh 57.2 41.9 55.5 N4 Machyal 58.4 44.5 56.7
3.8.3. Interpretation of Results
The noise monitoring shows that day and night time noise levels are highest at mine site and due to flow of river and exceed the prescribed limit. During daytime, the noise levels marginally exceed the prescribed limit for all other sites. The major source of the noise in the study area is the flow of river and vehicular movement. The ambient air quality standards in respect of noise are 75, 65, 55 and 50 dB (A) Leq in daytime and 70, 55, 45 and 40 dB (A) Leq during nighttime for industrial, commercial, residential and silence zone respectively. The daytime noise level measured during 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and nighttime measured from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m
3.9. Biological Environment The biological study of the core area (mine lease area) and buffer zone (10km radius from mine lease boundary) was carried out to understand the ecological status; to generate
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 95 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh baseline information; and, to predict the probable impacts due to the proposed project on the biological environment.
3.9.1. Flora Himachal Pradesh has very diverse flora with forest types varying from tropical to temperate to Alpine. Himachal Pradesh is rich in floral and faunal resources as nearly 3295 species of plants out of total 45000 reported in the country are found here, which represents 7.32% of floral species. As per Champion and Seth, the forests are broadly classified into Coniferous forests and broad leaved forests. There are six main types of forest i.e. moist tropical forests, dry tropical forests, montane sub-tropical forests, montane temperate forests, sub-alpine forests and alpine forests. The total area of the state under forests is 66.52% whereas, actual tree cover is just 26.35%. The Mandi districts with a tree cover of 42.35% (1673 sq. km.) is one of the more forested area and has a rich floral composition. Forests Map of Himachal Pradesh is shown in Figure 3.19.
Figure 3.19 : Map of Himachal Pradesh showing forest cover in its various districts (SFR, 2011)
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 96 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.9.2. Vegetation type of the study area: The forests of the tract dealt with are well scattered on the both bank of the river Beas, it can be broadly classified into following groups on the basis of various factors a) Scrub forests, b) Bamboo forests, c) Chir forests. The forests of this division can be further grouped into various forest types as identified by Champion and Seth (1968).
Group: 5 Dry Tropical forests includes
1. 5B/C2 Northern dry mixed deciduous forests
2. 5B/DS1/dry deciduous scrub forests
3. 5B/E9 dry bamboo
Group: 9 sub tropical pine forests includes
i) 9/cla-Lower or shivalik chir pine forests
ii) 9/clb upper Himalayan chir pine forests
The general vegetation of the study area is sub tropical in nature. The area of project side falls under the dry deciduous forest type.
3.9.3. Sampling Methodology for Floral Study Selection of sites for sampling of vegetation was done by random sampling procedure. Accordingly, quadrats of 10 m x 10 m were laid out for the analysis of tree layer in the submergence and as well, as influence zones. Within these sample plots, 3 m x 3 m plots were laid out randomly for sampling shrub layer and regeneration of tree species. To collect information on ground layer and other herbaceous species, quadrats of 1 m x1 m size were laid out within the tree quadrats. All species encountered during the transect walk were recorded and their herbarium specimens were prepared for identification and future use.
3.9.4. Flora in core zone The floristic study in the core zone was carried out at 3 locations viz. River bank side, u/s and d/s of mine lease area. Trees mainly Dalbergia sissoo, Bombax ceiba were present on the banks of the river (No tree was found within quadrates) Prominent Shrub was Lantana camara in the whole area (on both side of the banks), Herbs mainly present were Nasturtium officinalis, Cynodon dactylon, Solanum nigrum. Upper stream had very diversified flora as compare to middle and lower stream (Table 3.19).
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 97 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Table 3.19 : Floral Species (At riverbank Site) S. No. Common name Scientific name Trees 1 Shisham Dalbergia sissoo 2 Shimbal Bombax ceiba 3 Aam Mangifera indica Shrubs 1 Lantana Lantana camara 2 Congress grass Parthenium sp. Herbs 1 Billi Booti Stellaria media 2 Common grass Cynodon dactylon 3 Bhambola Solanum nigrum 4 Common aquatic plant Polygonum barbatum
Table 3.20 : Floral Species (Up Stream & Down Stream of lease area)
S. No. Floral Details ( Herbs Species) Up stream Down stream Common name Scientific name 1 Billi Booti Stellaria media √ 2 Bhambola Solanum nigrum √ 3 Jal narri Polygonum √ √ barbatum 4 Common grass Cynodon dactylon √ √
3.9.5. Frequency, abundance and IVI of herbs at Balh site: About 151.39 of the important value index (IVI) are contributed by Polygonum barbatum, which shows that this species is abundant, frequent and dominant in the study area. The importance value index is imperative to compare the ecological significance of species (Table 3.21).
Table 3.21 : Important value index (Herb) S. Herb Relative Relative Relative IVI pilnpi pixpi No. Frequency Density Abundance
1 Stellaria media 20 9.75 11.26 41.02 -0.227 0.009
2 Cynodon dactylon 40 26.82 15.49 82.32 -0.352 0.071
3 Solanum nigrum 20 2.43 2.81 25.25 -0.090 0.001
4 Polygonum barbatum 20 60.97 70.42 151.39 -0.301 0.371
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 98 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.9.6. Flora in buffer zone The forest of the study area covering buffer zone lies in Joginder Nagar division, which has three ranges, viz. Joginder Nagar, Ladbharol and Urla. The forest in the division has good floral diversity. As per Appendix – X, Working Plan (1995-96) for the division, there are 121 tree species, 97 shrub species, 25 Climbers, 25 Bamboos, 118 herbs. Inventory of forests within 10km radius of ML area is shown is Table 3.22.
Table 3.22 : Inventory of forests within 10km radius of ML area S.No. Name Direction Distance (km) 1 Siyuri, PF NE 2.5 2 Thorat, PF SE 6 3 Nagan, PF SE 6.5 4 Kadund, PF SSE 6.5 5 Ninpur, PF SSE 7 6 Babhuri Dhar, PF S 4.5 7 Banon, PF NW 2 8 Sukar, PF NW 6.5 9 Tain, PF SW 9 10 Kaproto, PF N 7 11 Naini Dhar, PF N 9 12 Riyoti Dhar, PF N 10 13 Mihar Dhar, PF NE 9.5 14 Trimunda, PF NE 6.5 15 Suhi Dhar, PF NE 7
3.9.7. FAUNA 3.9.7.1 Sampling methodologies used for Fauna: S. No Fauna Sampling Method 1 Butterflies Pollard Walk (Random Walk), Opportunistic observations 2 Amphibians Visual Encounter Survey (search) 3 Reptiles Visual Encounter Survey (search) 4 Birds Random Walk, Opportunistic observations 5 Mammals Tracks and signs, and Visual Encounter Survey
3.9.8. Terrestrial Fauna Based on actual sighting as well as secondary information through interaction with local people/literature. 20 species of birds, 10 mammalian species, 6 species of butterflies, 4 species of reptiles and 2 species of amphibians are reported from the study area.
Table 3.23 : Birds sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area S. Common name Scientific name Conservation
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 99 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh No. status (IUCN) 1 Red Wattle lapwing Vanellus indicus LC 2 White capped Red starter Chaimarrornis leucocephalus LC 3 Yellow wagtail Motacilla flava LC 4 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea LC
5 Common Myna Acridotheres tristis LC 6 Indian robin Saxicoloides fulicatus LC 7 Pied bush chat Saxicola caprata LC 8 Lesser pied kingfisher Ceryle rudis LC 9 White wagtail Motacilla alba LC 10 Bank myna Acridotheres ginginianus LC 11 Blank drongo Dicrurus macrocercus LC 12 Common tailor bird Orthotomus sutorius LC 13 Cattle egret Egretta garzetta LC 14 Green bee eater Merops orientalis LC 15 House crow Corvus splendens LC 16 Common hoopoe Upupa epops LC 17 Rufous tree pie Dendrocitta vagabunda LC 18 Common kingfisher Alcedo attis LC 19 Copper smith Barbet Megalaima malabarica LC 20 Shikra Accipiter badius LC
Table 3.24 : Mammals sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area
S. No. Common name Scientific name Conservation status 1 Rhesus monkey Macaca mulatta LC
2 Blue Bull Boselaphus tragocamelus LC
3 Wild boar Sus scrofa LC
4 Indian Palm Squirrel Funambulus palmarum LC
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 100 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 5 Hare Lepus timidus LC
6 Indian Grey Mongoose Herpestes edwardsii LC
7 House Mouse Mus musculus LC
8 Indian Porcupine Hystrix indica LC
9 Common palm squirrel Funambulus palmarum LC
10 Yellow throated Marten Martes flavigula LC
Table 3.25 : Butterflies sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area
S.No Common name Scientific name
1 Blue pansy Junonia hierta
2 Striped crow blue Euploea mulciber
3 Plain Tiger Danaus chrysippus
4 Indian large cabbage Pieris candia
5 Hill jezebel Delias belladonna
6 Common grass yellow Eurema hecabe
Table 3.26 : Reptiles sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area
S. No Common name Scientific name IUCN
1 Common rat snake Ptyas mucosa LC
2 Cobra Naja naja LC
3 Monitor lizards Varanus bengalensis LC
4 Krait Bungarus caeruleus LC
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 101 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Table 3.27 : Amphibians sighted during the field survey and also reported from the area S. No. Animals sighted/Reported Common name Scientific name
1. Himalayan Toad Duttaphrynus himalayanus 2 Toad Bufo viridis
3.9.9. Aquatic Ecology Aquatic ecosystem harbors a variety of plants and animals varying from primary producers to large consumers forming different trophic levels. These animals and plant communities are considered as the best indicators of the environment, which responds not only to one environmental factor but also to an interacting group of factors. Any change with respect to environmental factors could results threats to the existing the aquatic biological diversity.
3.9.9.1 Aquatic Life Status Baseline information on aquatic fauna was collected for winter season through extensive field survey and secondary sources. Two categories of planktons i.e., green algae (Chlorophyceae) and diatoms (Bacillariophyceae) were recorded.
The stream being a freshwater body, the presence of Chlorophyceae was more prominent. The variation in occurrence of phytoplankton taxa may be due to the water quality, channel morphology, elevation, geomorphology that occurs in the project site in river Beas and its tributaries. The river supports the occurrence of diverse aquatic flora and fauna through congenial habitat in the project influenced area.
The aquatic species from diverse groups of life forms like planktons, zoo-planktons and macro- invertebrates and fishes recorded in the project sites are described in Table 3.28.
Table 3.28 : List of Aquatic Flora and Fauna in the Beas in study area
S. No Name of the Genus Class Phytoplankton 1 Amphora Bacillariophyceae 2 Cymbella Bacillariophyceae 3 Fragillaria Bacillariophyceae 4 Gomphonema Bacillariophyceae 5 Gyrosigma Bacillariophyceae 6 Navicula Bacillariophyceae 7 Ankistrodesmus Chlorophyceae
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 102 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 8 Microspora Chlorophyceae 9 Scenedesmus Chlorophyceae
10 Volvox Chlorophyceae Zooplankton 1 Alona Branchiopoda
2 Nauplins Crustacean
3 Euglypha Imbricatea 4 Centropyxis Lobosea
5 Tichocera Monogononta 6 Epiphanes Rotifera 7 euglypha Imbricatea
Table 3.29 : Macro-invertebrate inventory as observed in various sites S. No Order Family Genus 1 Diptera Chironomidae Chironomus 2 Clitellata Naididae Tubifex Aeolosomatidae Aeolosoma 3 Ephemeroptera Baetidae Baetis
Table 3.30 : Fish Fauna in the influence area S. No. Fishes Conservation status
1 Salmo trutta LC 2 Nemachelius rupecola LC 3 Puntius spp. LC 4 Tor putitora EN 5 Schizothorax richardsonii VU
3.10. Socio-Economic Environment 3.10.1. District Profile
Mandi district has a total geographical area of 3,950 sq km, covers 7.10 % area and ranks 7th in the State. There are 6 towns and 3338 villages in the district of which 2818 villages are inhabited and 520 are uninhabited. The district has been divided into 6 sub-divisions [Sadar, Sarkaghat, Sundernagar, Karsog, Gohar, Jogindernagar]. There are 9 tehsils [Sadar,
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 103 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Thunag, Sundernagar, Sarkaghat, Padhar, Jogindernagar, Lad Bhraol, Karsog, Chachyot] & 7 sub-tehsils [Kotali, Aut, Nihari, Baldwara, Dharampur, Sandhol, Balichowki].
As per 2001 census, the district has a population of 9,01,344 persons with density of population 228 person per sq km. Population wise it ranks second in the State. The male and female population in the district is 4,47,872 and 4,53,472 respectively with a male/female sex ratio of 1012. The schedule cast population in the district is 29% and the schedule tribe population is 1.2 %. The literacy rate of the district is 72%.
Agriculture is the main occupation of its inhabitants in the project-influenced districts. The distribution of population by workers and non-workers category is shown in Table 3.31.
Table 3.31 : Distribution of population by workers and non-workers State/ District Population Male Female Total
Himachal Main Workers 1333361 630521 1963882 Pradesh Marginal Workers 353297 675282 1028579 Non- Workers 1401282 1684157 3085439 Total 3087940 2989960 6077900 Main Workers 176622 92454 269076 Mandi Marginal Workers 59132 126084 185216 Non- Workers 212118 234934 447052 Total 447872 453472 901344
Source: Census of India 2001
3.10.2. Socio-economic Assessment in the Study Area
Most often, development projects are planned based on the availability of exploitable natural resources. These projects attract flow of finances, investments, jobs and other livelihood opportunities, which brings in people from different cultural and social background. Such planned activities not only provide impetus to the local economy but also bring about a multi- dimensional economic, social and cultural change. Most often it has been observed that such development projects are commissioned in economically and socially backward areas, which are inhabited by some of the indigenous populations.
Review of secondary data, such as District Census Statistical Handbooks-2001 and the records of National Informatics Center data, for the parameters of demography, occupational structure of people within the general study area of 10 km radius around the project site. The information in this context was gathered on the following socio-economic parameters viz.
• Demographic profile
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 104 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh • Educational levels • Occupational Profile • Cropping pattern • Other socio-economic parameters
3.10.3. Demographic Profile of 10km radius study area
The study area lies in village Balh under Tehsil Joginder Nagar. The study are covering 10km radius from the mine site falls in the Tehsil: Joginder nagar, Lad Bharol, and Padhar of Mandi District. Out of 185 villages in study area 97, 73 and 15 come under jurisdiction of Tehsil Joginder nagar, Lad Bharol and Padhar. The total no. of households are 11453 whereas the total population is 52881 comprising of Male 25391 (48%) and Female 27490 (52%). The statistics is provided in Table 3.32.
Table 3.32 : Demography of the study area Name of Tehsil No. of villages No. of Household Total Population Male Population Female Population Joginder nagar 97 8108 37437 18218 19219 Lad Bharol 73 2657 11795 5350 6445 Padhar 15 688 3649 1823 1826 Total 185 11453 52881 25391 27490 Sex Ratio The sex ratio is thus 1083 Female per 1000 Male. (Figure 3.20).
Figure 3.20 Tehsil-wise Male Female Population of the Study Area
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 105 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh SC / ST Population
A considerable 23.70% of the population in the Study Area is constituted by SC/ST of which SC population constitutes 21.17 % and rest 2.53% is constituted by ST populations (Table 3.33). A comparative graph of SC/ST Population in Study Area (Tehsil wise) is depicted in Figure 3.21 and 3.22.
Table 3.33 : List of SC/ST Population (Tehsil-wise)
Tehsil Total Population General SC ST District Sex Male 18218 13853 4006 359 Jogindar Nagar Female 19219 14639 4200 380 Male 5350 4291 1059 0 Mandi Lad Bharol Female 6445 5231 1211 3 Male 1823 1160 366 297 Padhar Female 1826 1174 355 297 Total 52881 40348 11197 1336 % of Total 100 76.30 21.17 2.53
Figure 3.21 : Tehsil-wise SC Population in Study Area
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 106 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.22 : Tehsil-wise ST Population in Study Area Literacy Rate
The literacy rate of the study area is 65.7% of which Male literate are 54.8% and female literate are 45.2%. The illiterates are 34.3% of the total population of which Female illiterates are 84.9 (Table 3.34). The graphical presentation is shown in Figure 3.23.
Table 3.34 : Male and Female Literates/Illiterates (Tehsil-wise) Total Male Female Male Female District Tehsil Literates Illiterates Population Literates Literates illiterates Illiterates Jogindar Nagar 37437 25015 13833 11182 12422 4385 8037 Mandi Lad Bharol 11795 7677 3932 3745 4118 1418 2700 Padhar 3649 2028 1254 774 1621 569 1052 Total 52881 34720 19019 15701 18161 6372 11789 Percentage 65.7 54.8 45.2 34.3 35.1 64.9
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 107 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Figure 3.23 Gender-wise Distribution of Illiteracy in Study Area Occupation Scenario
As per Census 2001, out of the total population of 52881, the working population of the area comprises of 25555 (48.3%) comprising of 19.9% is the Main workers and 28.4% the marginal Workers. The non-workers are 51.7% of the total population. (Figure 3.24)
Figure 3.24 : Occupation Scenario
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 108 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.10.4. Demographic Profile of zone of influence with in study area
The detailed description of the demographic profile is highlighted in the following sub- sections, which gives an overall summary of the socio-economic conditions of the population residing in influence zone villages within 2 km around the mine area (Table 3.35).
Table 3.35 : Demographic profile of the zone of influence
No. of Total Male Female S.No. Village Household Population Population Population 1 Main Bharola 89 411 185 226 2 Tikru 86 386 184 202 3 Kaunsal 67 312 160 152 4 Balh 23 93 37 56 5 Awair 162 810 414 396 6 Jalpehr 150 758 368 390 7 Dart Bagla 125 564 265 299 8 Chelang 19 77 35 42 Total 721 3411 1648 1763
3.10.5. Health and Nutritional Status of the Project Affected Population (PAPS)
The health status determines the nature and state of human resource development. Several economic variables like income, employment, purchasing power and poverty determine the health status of the people. Health status of the people, in general, determine the average expectation of life, number of persons in the productive age group, production, productivity, earning capacity, employment and family welfare. The determinant factors of health status include food, nutrition, hygiene, medical facilities, and socio-cultural implications of health, environmental aspects, education, psychology and worldview of the people. The health status is manifested in general in the form of prevalent infant mortality rate, life expectancy, maternal mortality, level of fertility and mortality etc. Besides this, the health status is connected to the hygienic conditions and nutritional status of the person concerned. The hygienic condition can be understood in terms of personal hygiene, domestic hygiene, environmental hygiene and the community hygiene. While the nutritional status denote the quality and quantity of the staple food, pulses, oil seeds, milk products, vegetable, flesh food and drinks.
During the survey, the general appearance of the villagers, their hygienic conditions and the dietary pattern show that they are living in a hygienic and healthy condition. However, people
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 109 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh suffer from minor problems like eye and skin ailments, common cold and fever. Proper medical aid facilities do not exist in the village or area and the people depend on their age- old health care practices.
The staple food is chapatti made from wheat and maize flour and rice. Pulses and different vegetables are other major food items. Availability of milk and milk products to the villagers is very good due to large number of livestock in the area.
3.10.6. Caste Categories
Social stratification on the basis of caste is very much prevalent in our society from the date back to the history. In the mountainous region, the population from general/upper castes is richer than SCs in terms of land and livestock from days back to the times of local kingdoms. As per the classification under our constitution castes are divided into 4 major groups i.e., General, SC, ST and OBC as per their social status. As per the study conducted 3 castes namely General, SCs and OBCs are observed. General population divided into Brahmins and Rajputs dominate the project affected area. The schedule cast and schedule tribe population constitutes 20.6 % and 0.7% respectively of the total population (Table 3.36).
Table 3.36 : Caste distribution pattern in influence zone
Total SC SC SC ST ST ST S.No. Village Population Population (Male) (Female) Population (Male) (Female) 1 Main Bharola 411 89 42 47 0 0 0 2 Tikru 386 9 3 6 18 9 9 3 Kaunsal 312 64 33 31 6 4 2 4 Balh 93 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 Awair 810 169 93 76 0 0 0 6 Jalpehr 758 252 130 122 0 0 0 7 Dart Bagla 564 119 53 66 0 0 0 8 Chelang 77 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 3411 702 354 348 24 13 11 3.10.7. Housing Pattern
All the villagers have their own houses. As per study generally they live in 3 types of housing structures:-
1) Pucca house made up of stone/brick cement masonry with R.C.C roof. 2) Kuccha houses made up of stone and mud with inclined roof. 3) Mixed houses made up of stone/brick cement masonry walls and slate/tin roofs.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 110 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.10.8. Educational Profile
Education acts as the building block for a society. It determines the social behavior of the person or the society as a whole. Proper education leads to the upliftment of society by creating awareness towards the changes and their impacts on their lives. It also determines the living standard and the thought of a society. Educational standard and the occupation / occupational efficiency are positively correlated. This also corresponds to the economic status of the person or the community as a whole.
The education levels among the villages varied from being illiterate to being postgraduates. As all villages have at least a primary school, the literacy levels are high among the younger generation. Most of the elderly people were either illiterate or had not studied beyond Class X. Most of the younger people had however, studied till Class X at least. There were a few graduates.
Infrastructure is an important indicator of level of development and the potential for future growth in particular area. The quality of school largely depends upon the type of infrastructure available. The information with regard to availably of various level educational facilities is given in Table 3.37.
Table 3.37 : Availably of various level educational facilities Higher Primary Middle Secondary S.No. Village Secondary College School School School School 1 Main Bharola 2 0 0 0 0 2 Tikru 1 1 1 0 0 3 Kaunsal 1 0 0 0 0 4 Balh 0 0 0 0 0 5 Awair 3 0 0 0 0 6 Jalpehr 0 0 0 0 0 7 Dart Bagla 1 0 0 0 0 8 Chelang 1 0 0 0 0
3.10.9. Health Care Facilities
Health infrastructure (Table 3.38) is also very few in numbers in the area. Local people have to travel a long distances for their basic medical needs. A large number of people have been reported to be suffering from cold, malaria, and diarrhea etc. The existing PHCs and Veterinary centers were observed to have dearth of doctors and require urgent attention.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 111 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh None of the villages has PHC facilities. Only Kaunsal village has an Ayurvedic dispensary, for treatment, people have to go to govt. hospital at Joginder nagar.
Table 3.38 : Location of Hospitals and PHC
S.No. Village Hospital Dispensary PHC PHSC 1 Main Bharola 0 0 0 1 2 Tikru 0 0 0 0 3 Kaunsal 0 1 AY 0 0 4 Balh 0 0 0 0 5 Awair 0 0 0 0 6 Jalpehr 0 0 0 0 7 Dart Bagla 0 0 0 0 8 Chelang 0 0 0 0 Source: Census 2001
3.10.10. Occupational Profile
Agriculture is the primary occupation in all the villages it is followed by animal husbandry as many people sell milk or other dairy products. Very few people have regular jobs, of which the government jobs are even fewer. Most of the private jobs are in the local hotels/restaurants and as drivers some people also operate their vans/jeeps/cars etc as tourist vehicles. The overall distribution of the working population comprising of main workers and marginal workers in the villages is show in Table 3.39. It is evident from the table that the workers population is 1466 (43%) of which main and marginal workers constitutes 43% and 57% respectively.
Table 3.39 : Occupational profile of people in project area
Main Marginal Non Total Workers Male Female Village Workers Workers Workers Population Population Workers Workers Population Population Population Main Bharola 411 209 91 118 73 136 202 Tikru 386 209 95 114 77 132 177 Kaunsal 312 170 86 84 141 29 142 Balh 93 44 16 28 8 36 49 Awair 810 366 175 191 145 221 444 Jalpehr 758 180 127 53 120 60 578 Dart Bagla 564 249 114 135 55 194 315 Chelang 77 39 16 23 12 27 38 Total 3411 1466 720 746 631 835 1945
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 112 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 3.11. Crop Rotation
The study area supports good agriculture as there are vast chunk of terrace fields where state irrigation by way of small Kules (FIS), Lift Irrigation Schemes (LIS) have been provided by the state besides this due to good rainfall crops are also grown in non-irrigated areas. Due to good climate, soil fertility and availability of moisture from rain or irrigation sources Kharif and Rabi crops are grown. The major crops grown are paddy, wheat, maize, barley, millets, mustard, sesame, pulses and vegetables like potato, ginger and chilly etc.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 113 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh CHAPTER 4. : Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4.1. Introduction With the commissioning of the mining activities of the proposed project, it is expected that there shall be certain changes in the overall environmental matrix of the area. The base line data of the existing environment, in the absence of proposed project activities, provides the status of natural environment and when this is evaluated in conjunction with the proposed activities it further provides a mechanism for prediction of changes likely to happen. In present study likely impact and its extent on various environmental parameters viz. topography and drainage, land, water, hydrology, noise, air, ecological and socio-economics were undertaken by assessing the baseline environmental status of the area and estimation were made as how this will change with commencement of project activity. The mitigation measures have been developed with a view to bring down the levels of impacts within limits. In each of the areas of impact, measures have to be taken to mitigate 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 substantial extent.
4.2. Impacts on Topography and Drainage 4.2.1. Topography The core zone i.e. the proposed mine lease area is within the flow section of hill stream/Khad/river. The riverbed is strewed with large boulders, medium size boulders, cobbles, pebbles and sand within the flow section either scattered or in the form of compacted material lying in shoal deposits along the course of river. The highest and the lowest altitudes in the ML area is 871 and 850 masl respectively. The riverbed slope in the lease area is 16.5m / km. The mining activity in the riverbed by creating pits per se shall not lead to any change in the local topography of the area as the pits dug in pervious year shall be fully or partially replenished during flood in preceding years. There will be no formation of overburden dumps. Thus there will be no change in topography of either core or buffer zone.
4.2.2. Drainage Rana khad is a 4th order stream during its course through mine lease area till its confluence with Neri khad which is again a 3rd order stream downstream of Machyal. Within the mine lease area Laban Khad with steep gradients meets Rana Khad on its left bank. Besides these two streams there is no other stream flowing in the mine lease area. Thus the mining activities in Rana khad shall not cut any lower order stream as these are non-existents and shall also not impact the flow course of laban khad. Any temporary diversion of discharge of
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 114 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh any interlacing of parent Rana khad into the main current for facilitating mining shall not alter either the drainage pattern or the river flow dynamics in core as well as buffer zone.
4.3. Land Environment 4.3.1. Change in land use The landuse of the core area is river body flowing in forestland. The landuse of the mine area (core zone) shall continue to be river body, being replenished annually, even during operation and post operation. The predominant landuse of the buffer zone is dense forest (48.06%) followed by open forest (25.64%), agriculture (15.45%) and settlement (8.96%) of the total study area (314.09 sq. km) shall not at all be impacted due to mining activity in small chunk of area.
4.3.2. Change in river course There will be no change in the river course due to mining as the river course is mainly guided by the hydraulic gradient of surface water and the geological conditions of the bank and bed of the river. In the mine lease area the river section is well defined and is confined between both the flanks.
4.3.3. Impact on soil The mining plan envisages open cast manual method of mining in excavating the riverbed deposits and proposed to remove top soil crust (silt/clay) and stacking for future back filling programme/spreading on upper terraces. The mine waste in the form of silt/clay in mine lease area are very fine but due to manual mining, very little dust would be generated. These dust particles are usually blown away along the wind direction and get deposited on the canopy of surrounding vegetation in the forests and agricultural crops thereby interfering with photosynthesis and other physiological activities of the green cover. Finally, this may result in reduced ecological functions of the forest ecosystems as well as economic productivity of the agro-ecosystems.
4.3.3.1 Mitigation measures The top soil (devoid of gravel but not lying under the boulders) shall be removed and stacked separately for spreading on upper terraces/future back filling programme. Immediately after back filling, the refilled top soil shall be planted with fast growing leguminous cover of crops and other indigenous herbs, shrubs of pioneer species, apart from planting of tree species to restore the role soil. Sprinkling of water, at regular intervals, on exposed surface of silt/clay in upper terraces or stacks for back filling will further reduce the dust emission due to air .Also, creation of green belt well before the mining operation stats would also reduce the dust emission.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 115 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 4.4. Impacts on Climate Wind Speed The wind speed in any area is dependent upon local topography and is intimately connected with the development as high and low pressure zones. The controlling factors for the pressure changes lie much beyond the manual mining operation in small scale. Thus, no adverse impact on the regional wind speed is anticipated due to the mining operations. Temperature The temperature pattern is a regional behaviour and is not likely to be affected by the mining activity by manual open cast mining in the riverbed. Rainfall The trend of rainfall follows a regional pattern and is mainly governed by the south west monsoon and disturbances in the Arabian Sea. The mining operation, therefore, is not likely to have any adverse impacts on rainfall pattern.
Humidity The pattern of relative humidity depends mainly on the rainfall, wind, temperature and other weather phenomenon that are regional in behaviour. The mining operation is not likely to have any impact on the relative humidity in the surrounding
4.5. Water Environment 4.5.1. Impact on Water Resources Surface Water
In the present case of riverbed mining the requirement of water for dust suppression (0.8 KLD) and green belt (0.3 KLD) shall be met from the local khad in which mining is being proposed. The total requirement of 1.1 KLD (1.27 X 10-5 cumec) water abstracted from the khad is infinitesimal as compared to the minimum discharge (1.6 cumec) in the river during 1st 10 daily of June in 90% dependable year. Thus there shall be no impact on surface water resource. Ground Water
Hydro-geologically the study is comprised of Siwalaik & Subathu Group (Semi-consolidated). In the study area, fracture or fault zones form potential ground water zones. The ground water level in the project area could not be established as it is often the case in mountainous terrain. Considering the hydro geology of the fluvial deposits along the longitudinal and flow section of the khad. The groundwater is likely to exist 8 to 10m below the ground level and the hydraulic gradient seems to follow east south trend which is manifest from the surface gradient of the course of Rana Khad at site. The mining activities shall be confined to 1m depth below natural surface level, therefore the ground water is likely to be intersected.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 116 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh There will be no impact on the ground water resource as there will be no draft from the ground water for mining activities. However, the sand, in the river section, acts like a sponge and consequently help in recharging the water table and thus its continuous removal shall lead to progressive depletion in infiltration and recharging capacity, but the impact shall be temporary and insignificant.
4.5.2. Impact on Surface Water Quality Though the mining activities shall not be in stream mining as the pits will be dug at locations away from the current, yet due to diurnal variation of flow the possibilities of mining pits being inundated cannot be ruled out. In such scenario the mining activities shall be again restored only after the pit water is drained out and channelized into the current by digging small cunit (drain), in this process some sediments will get dislodged from their position and thus flow with current. This shall lead to increase in siltation rate. The observed value of total suspended solids (TSS) ranged between 18 – 22mg/l (18-22 ppm) since the observations was made during winter season, when the sedimentation rate in the river is invariably low. Considering 20% increase in siltation due to mining the TSS value shall be of the order of 22 – 26 mg/l. The resultant value of the TSS shall be too low to create any considerable impact on the turbidity in the river water. The transparency of water shall not be impaired to the extent that the available sunlight ceases to power the photosynthetic reaction. Mitigation Measures The mining in the flooded pits shall be allowed only after the water level has receded. Sufficient time should be allowed for settling of sediment in the pits
4.5.3. Impact on Ground Water Quality In view of the facts that the mining activities does not intersect the ground water table. No impact on the quality of ground water is anticipated. Beside this the sand bajri stone are non- toxic in nature and therefore percolated water from the pits shall not impair the ground water quality.
4.5.4. Impact on Hydrological features The pit mining may lead to channel incision and induce lowering of water table hydrologically connected to the river. In the mine lease area the river flows within well-defined banks and the riverbed slope in the lease area is 16.5m / km, the creation of mine pits in 1m depth and small surface dimensions, sloping in the general direction of flow, separated by levees, shall not disturb the existing river bed gradients and thus there will be no possibility of channel incision. Since, in the present case the highest and the lowest altitudes in the ML area is 871 and 850 masl respectively.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 117 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 4.5.5. Impact on Morphological features The excavation steepens the u/s bed slope of the channel and may lower the base level of the nearby tributary, if any cause their bank erosion. In the present case the average river bed slope, upto 5.35 km u/s of the mine site is 24.1 m/km which is steeper than the river bed slope within the mine lease area is 16.5m/km which will be least affected due to lowering of bed by 1m with in the mine lease area. Thus, there will be no increase in steepness in u/s bed slope of the khad. Besides this, the bed level of Laban khad which meets Rana khad laterally shall not be affected as the former has comparatively high bed gradient at the point of confluence. The riverbed mining shall be by rotation in the areas fixed for winning the material in different years. The portion from which the material is extracted shall be again put to mining activities after encountering two floods i.e. after the pit has replenished.
4.5.6. Impact on Irrigation/Water supply schemes From the upper most extremity of the lease area of Balh site at approximately 0.8 km u/s a lift drinking water scheme, constructed by project proponent for providing water supply to project affected villages and another lift irrigation scheme, Balh Chalharg LIS (74 ha), takes off about 400m from the upper extremity of the mine lease area. On d/s of the confluence of Rana Khad with Luni Khad, Bhararoo, LIS (41 ha), about 3.5 km d/s of mine lease area, also harness the water of Rana Khad. Since only 1.1 KLD (1.27 X 10-5 cumec) shall be harnessed from Rana Khad for dust suppression and watering in plantation, there shall be not impact in the authorized head discharges of the d/s irrigation / water schemes. Due to mining there will be slight increase in siltation and the resultant value of the TSS shall be too low to create any considerable impact on the turbidity in the river water. The transparency of water shall not be impaired to the extent that the available sunlight ceases to power the photosynthetic reaction. The average slope of the Rana Khad u/s of lease is too high (24.1 m/km). Therefore, the possibility of any bed retrogression due to 1m deep mining is ruled out owing to the distance and due to the hard river bed strata. There shall be no impact on the structure of the d/s lift irrigation scheme as it is 3.5 km away from the mine lease area.
4.6. Noise and Vibration The main noise generating source during riverbed mining operation and related activities are is the truck movement to and fro from riverbed site to stone crusher site (Balh). The mine is away from the settlements and also from the SH/district roads. Only vehicle used in connection with the project activity at the HRT intake throng the site. The noise monitoring shows that day and night time noise levels are highest at mine site and due to flow of river and exceed the prescribed limit, Leq day and night noise level at the site is 71.8 dB(A)
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 118 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 4.6.1. Impact on Noise Level In order to predict ambient noise levels due to the mining the noise modeling has been done. For computing the noise levels at various distances with respect to the mine lease site, noise levels are predicted by a user friendly model the details of which are elaborated below.
4.6.2. Model for sound wave propagation during mining For an approximate estimation of dispersion of noise in the ambient air from the point source, a standard mathematical model for sound wave propagation is used. The noise generated by equipment decreases with increased distance from the source due to wave divergence. An additional decrease in sound pressure level with distance from the source is expected due to atmospheric effect or its interaction with objects in the transmission path.
For hemispherical sound wave propagation through homogenous loss free medium, one can estimate noise levels at various locations, due to different source using model based on first principles, as per the following equation:
LP2=LP1 – 20Log (r2 / r1) - AE ……………………………. (1)
Where,
LP2 And L P1 are the Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) at points located at a distances of r2 and r1 from the
source. AE is attenuations due to Environmental conditions (E). The combined effect of the entire source can be determined at various locations by the following equation.
(Lpa)/10 Lpb)/10 Lpc)/10 LP (total) = 10Log (10 + 10 + 10 + ………) (2)
Where Lpa, LPb, LPc are noise pressure levels at a point due to different sources.
Environment Correction (AE)
The equivalent sound pressure level can be calculated from the measured sound pressure level (Leq
measured) averaged over the measurement surface area ‘S’ and from corrections K1 and K2 and is given by;
(Leq measured) = (Leq measured) – K1 – K2 (3)
Where,
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 119 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
K1 = Factor for the background noise correction. The correction was not applied in this modeling exercise, as it was not possible to measure the background noise levels by putting off machines hence it was considered as zero.
K2 = Environmental correction
4.7. Input for the model An input noise model has been generated with the source of noise to be generated intermittently due to operation and movement of truck/tripper, conveyers movement, service vans, crushing, truck movement. Intermittent noise would generated due to operation and movement of truck/tippers/tractors and the standard value of 75 to 95 dB(A) at 1 m distance from the source.
Model outputs
The ambient noise levels have been predicted for proposed mining. The predicted noise levels at the boundary of the mine in different directions are given in Table 4.1. There will be slight impact on the village during blasting for a short period and due to masking effect, it will not have any significant impact for rest of the time.
Table 4.1 : Predicted Noise Levels
Distance Ambient noise Noise level due to Resultant noise level from mine levels dB(A) at deployment of construction due to construction site (m) the riverbed site machinery dB(A) activities dB(A)
1 71.8 85 85.20 10 51.8 65 65.20 100 31.8 45 45.20 500 17.8 31 31.20
It is evident from the table the noise levels due to noise source from river and truck movement are attenuated after 100 m distance from the mine site. The resultant noise levels are very high at mine site (85.2 dB(A)).
4.7.1.2 Mitigation Measures to Reduce Ambient Noise Levels The following control measures will be adopted to keep the ambient noise levels below permissible limits 75 dB (A).
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 120 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh (i) Provision and maintenance of thick tree belts to screen noise. (ii) Avenue plantation within the project area to dampen the noise. (iii) Proper maintenance of noise generating transport vehicles. (iv) Regular noise level monitoring shall be carried out periodically for taking corrective action To protect the workers from exposures to higher noise levels the following measures will be adopted. (i) Provision of protective devices like ear muffs/ear plugs to those workers who cannot be isolated from the source of noise (ii) Reducing the exposure time of workers to the higher noise levels by rotation.
4.7.2. Impacts due to ground vibration (due to blasting) No ground vibration due to mining activity shall be imparted as no blasting is proposed for the mining.
4.8. Impacts on Air Environment Basically, dust sources in mines can be categorized as primary sources that generate the dust and secondary sources, which disperse the dust and carry it from place to place called as fugitive dust.
Impacts of mining on air quality are cause for concern mainly due to fugitive emissions of particulate matter and gases. The major operations producing dust in river bed mining are pit excavation, segregation and screening of material, loading and transporting to the crushing unit. Exhaust emissions from vehicles deployed is also likely to result in marginal increase in the
levels of SO2, NOx, PM10, CO and unburnt hydrocarbons.
The collection/extraction of river borne material and its handling, loading & unloading will
cause momentary rise in the PM10. The dust liberated in mining and other related operations is injurious to health if inhaled in sufficient quantity regularly as may lead to lung disease.
Dust Emission Rate
The maximum production from the mine in any one year is 45000 MT, which implies that handling in the mine is 167 TPD on the basis of 270 working days annually. Therefore, per hourly handling of material per day (8 hr/day operation) shall be is 20.90 t/ hr.
The dust emissions in the present case has been assessed considering the empirical factor of given in “Indian Mining and Engineering Journal”.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 121 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Total handling of material will be 20.90 t/hr.
Rate of emission @ 23.6 kg/ hr for handling 1000 t/ hr
= 20.90 t/ hr X 23.6 kg/ hr = 0.493 kg/hr
1000 t / hr
= 0.493 X 1000 = 0.137g/sec
60x60
The dust emission rate calculated as above is in respect of uncontrolled emissions. Due to moist conditions at mine site and moisture content of the riverbed matrix, installation and operation of dust control measures at mining site, the emissions will be drastically reduced. Otherwise also the emission rate concentration is too little hence; no Air modelling is required
for the present project for pollutant PM10. The maximum concentration of Air pollutants like
PM10 , SO2 and NOX observed at mine site are 56.6 µg/cum, 9.2 µg/cum, 17.6 µg/cum which are far below the NAAQS, fixed by CPCB for “Residential and Rural” areas.
The major contribution to pollution in air shall be from transportation of mined material to stone crusher unit located at a distance of 0.5 Km. For transportation of a maximum daily production of 167 MT raw material, three tipper (10MT capacity) shall be deployed considering that one tipper / truck shall make five/six trips per day. The fugitive emission alone from the transportation resulting from movement of three tippers per day for five to six trips shall be inconsequential. The existing baseline concentration of CO has been found to be 195-255 µg/cum which is far below the limit of 2000 µg/cum as per NAAQS, fixed by CPCB.
As the project does not involve any drilling and blasting, use of boiler / furnace and deployment of DG Sets, thus there is no point source of Air pollution. Thus, there is no need for any air quality modelling using FDM or other models. Otherwise also in the wake of the fact that the mine lease area is very small being less than 25ha and no DG set of 500 KVA and above is being used for captive power generation, air quality impact prediction by modelling is not warranted.
Mitigation Measures Following mitigation measures shall be adopted during mining activities to control air pollution load below the prescribed limits:
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 122 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Water spraying on haul roads by mobile and fixed sprinklers at regular interval. Designing and laying haul roads in gentle grade and in hard stratum as far as possible. The road surface along the riverbank shall be properly laid with grid and small pebbles to eliminate air borne dust. Avenue plantation on roadsides besides plantation around the mine lease area will help in reducing the emission. It shall be ensured that the laborers working at or near high dust prone area use dust filters / mask. Covered or hooded trucks shall be used for transportation. Care shall be taken to prevent spillage of material.
4.9. Biological Environment 4.9.1. Impact on Flora The proposed mine lease area is ‘gair mumkin Khad’’ falling in forestland. In the core zone of mine lease area there is a shoal deposit over which vegetation has grown over the time. Since there will be no felling of trees or deforestation, there will be no impact on flora of the core zone. The mining activity per se shall not lead to any impact on the terrestrial flora of the buffer zone either. There are no national parks, sanctuaries, notified biospheres, Tiger/Elephant Corridors, Birds migratory routes, etc. within 10 km radius. Nearest Wildlife Sanctuary is Nargu, which is 40 kms from Joginder nagar across Ulh River in Mandi district
The dust is the only major pollutant, which will be generated from different activities of mining. The effect of particulate matter on vegetation is in the form of incrustation, plugging of stomata, and loss of chlorophyll and reduction of photosynthesis process. Disturbance in plant metabolism due to deposition of dust particles on foliar surfaces leads to reduction in plant growth. The atmospheric concentrations normally do not reach a level sufficient to induce acute injury.
The annual plantation proposed for five years of mining period shall greatly help in developing a good vegetal cover on the upper terrace near the bank of the river and eventually attract micro fauna, birds etc in the area. Thus, there will be positive impact on terrestrial environment around the mine lease area.
4.9.1.1 Measures for Minimizing Impact on Flora It shall be ensured that no mining shall be carried out inside the land prohibited from mining activities. Green Belt shall be properly designed in consultation with the forest department. Plantation shall be carried out as per periodical plantation programme. Fast growing and evergreen trees, trees with broad leaf resistant to specific pollutant and those which would maintain the regional ecological balance, soil and hydrological conditions shall be favoured.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 123 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 4.9.2. Impact on Fauna The mining lease area, falling in river bed is very near to the agricultural field / settlements on either bank. Intervention in the riverbed will impact Butterflies and birds which are quite sensitive to noise and human presence. No endangered species of fauna is found in and around lease area. As such, there will be temporary and insignificant affect on fauna around the mining lease area.
4.9.2.1 Measures for Minimizing Impact on Fauna Following measures will be adopted to minimize the impact of mining on faunal environment of the area.
Progressive afforestation will create favorable conditions and good habitat for fauna in the area. Measures shall be adopted to curb pollution due to air, water, land & noise environment. Creating and developing awareness for nature and wildlife in the adjoining villages.
4.9.3. Impact on Aquatic Ecology In stream, mining may destruct in channel features like riffles and pools, which are largely responsible for enhancing aquatic habitat. Large scale and prolonged mining can increase TSS downstream thereby affecting benthic invertebrates and fish population
The mining activities shall result in slight increase in siltation. Increased turbidity of the water results in lesser penetration of sunlight thereby affecting photosynthesis of the phytoplankton (Ripley, 1966), which are primary producers in aquatic ecosystems. Increased sediment loads may also alter the benthic fauna.
Considering 20% increase in siltation due to mining the TSS value shall be of the order of 22 – 26 mg/l in lean period. The resultant value of the TSS shall be too low to create any considerable impact on the turbidity in the river water. The transparency of water shall not be impaired to the extent that the available sunlight ceases to power the photosynthetic reaction. No mining activity is envisaged during monsoon season when the TSS is very high and the flow velocities are comparatively higher than other months.
4.9.4. IMPACT ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT The entire mine lease area lies within the forest land, the project does not involve any loss of agriculture land. Some of the impacts would be directly beneficial to the socio-economic environment due to proposed employment potential. The beneficial impacts due to the activities in the region would be:
Employment for 45 persons in the various mine activities.
Indirect employment in transport sector. EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 124 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Amelioration of the general living standards of local persons employed in mining activities.
The higher earnings will result in more purchase power.
Improvement in the economic growth in the region by way of additional mineral availability.
Benefit to the State and the Central governments through financial revenues by way of royalty, tax, duties, etc from this project directly and indirectly.
Adverse Impacts The adverse impacts on socio-economic environment due to mining activities in the region will be:
Dust will affect to the local air environment and this dust will settle down on nearby agricultural fields and will affect the productivity of the land and increase in respiratory problems.
Soil erosion, landslides and loss of fertility etc.
There may be some conflict of utilization of local resources between project proponent and local communities.
Contamination of water, soil and air due to mining.
4.9.5. TRANSPORT Impact on Road and Traffic
The material shall be transported from the riverbed mine to a distance of 0.5 km upto the stone crushing unit established near the HRT complex of the project area of UHL Stage III. The traffic density on the surrounding roads of the mine site is very low and capable of handling of increased traffic. In the proposed mining, for transportation of a maximum production of 167 MT raw material, three tippers (10MT capacity) shall be deployed considering that each tipper / truck shall make five/six trips per day. Hence, the local transport / infrastructure facilities are capable of handling the increased load due to mining activities. As the extracted material shall be transported to the stone crushing unit located within the project area itself. There will be no impact to the existing road network of state / district highway.
4.9.6. Control Measures for Impact Due to Traffic
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 125 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Following control measures have been suggested to prevent air pollution due to the transportation activities:
The road shall be strengthened to cater the increase in traffic transportation. Avenue Plantation shall be carried out along the road for dust control. Proper maintenance of the road and its curbs will be done. Transport trucks/tippers shall be properly maintained. Adequate sign board
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 126 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh CHAPTER 5. : Analysis of Alternatives 5.1. General The requirement of the huge demand of construction material, like coarse aggregate (3.62 lac cum) and fine aggregate (1.81 lac cum) needed in concrete works of various components of the project, could be either met through extraction from the natural available materials in shoal deposits of riverbed quarry site or from quarrying operations involving blasting at Rock in-situ quarries. The latter option involves considerable land degradation as compared to the former. In case the river bound, material is of good quality and found suitable for use as road material as well as course aggregate for non-wearing and wearing surface in concrete works, the riverbed mining presents good options. The study for alternative analysis involves in- depth examination of site and technology.
5.2. Alternative Sites In mountain rivers the alluvium predominantly comprises of boulder, cobbles, pebbles and fine drained soil consisting of mud, silt and sand invariably are deposited on the inside bends (convex banks), where the water flows more slowly and has less power to transport the bed/sedimentary load. Thus, a river can present numerous sites where the aggradation of sediments takes place and large shoal deposits are formed. These sites can be used from techno-economical considerations depending upon the distance (lead) from mine site to the crushing unit. The mining is thus site specific. In the present case the river/khad flows in a sinuous path characterized by presence of shoal deposits at inner curves where the river energy is reduced. In this reach the deposition of river born material takes place in the form of shoal deposits. The riverbed is strewn with boulders, cobbles, pebbles and sand. In such high gradient reaches, high velocities exceeding 5m / sec are developed. In this reach the competency of the river is very high and increase with the square of its velocity. The site is very near to the point of end use i.e. near the project component. Apart from this, the quarry site was also used for obtaining stone aggregate material during the construction of UHL stage – II project (Bassi Power house (60 MW)). Therefore, the project proponent has sought the lease of the land for mining of stone/sand/bajri from this quarry site for consumptive use in their project.
5.3. Alternative Technology The open case mining could be manual/semi-mechanized/mechanized depending upon the geological and topographical setup of the mineral (ROM) to be won. The project involves open cast manual mining in a depth of 1m from natural surface level of riverbed without use of blasting as well as other earth moving equipment. As such, the conventional method of
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 127 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh mining has been adopted. Otherwise also the provision of Section 21 (2-A) of The Himachal Pradesh Minor Minerals (Concession) Revised Rules, 1971, holds that, no mechanical mining through mechanical excavator including any other earth moving machines like J.C.B, Buldozer, Pocklain, Loders etc. shall be carried out in River or Stream Bed by the lease holder or permit holder or contractor as the case may be.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 128 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh CHAPTER 6. : Environmental Monitoring Programme 6.1. General The monitoring and evaluation of environmental parameters indicates potential changes occurring in the environment, which paves way for implementation of rectifying measures wherever required to maintain the status of the natural environment. Evaluation is also a very effective tool to judge the effectiveness or deficiency of the measures adopted and provides insight for future corrections.
6.2. Areas of concern In case of river bed mining projects, the changes relating to water, aquatic biota, air, noise, biodiversity of the area and stability of river bank slopes and plantation programme need special attention, from monitoring point of view, during the conceptual mine plan period to judge the efficiency of measures implemented for conservation of environment.
6.3. Environmental Monitoring The overall impact assessment of the proposed project was carried out and monitoring plans have been framed based on the severity of impacts in different areas. During the EIA study, it has been observed that the air quality and water quality are not going to be affected significantly and only, temporary changes in these parameters are expected. The preventive/ curative measures to reduce the ill effects of construction activities on these parameters have been suggested under various plans. A holistic approach has been adapted for monitoring of air, noise and water related factors under different heads with suitable financial provisions for their implementation.
6.4. Environmental Monitoring Programme All the environmental parameters viz. air, water, noise, soil will be monitored regularly in order to detect any changes from the baseline status. Monitoring program will be followed till the mining operations ceases; as per the schedule below.
6.4.1. Air Quality Monitoring and Management: Two locations one each in core zone and buffer zone preferably the stone crushing site at Balh village nearest to the mine site will be monitored for four weeks in every season except
monsoon. The 24 hr. monitoring shall be done in respect of PM10, SO2 and NOx. It should be made mandatory on the part of the contractors that they use the required equipment for monitoring gaseous pollutants in and around the project and submit a detailed report every fortnight to the project authorities for evaluation and monitoring purposes. The air quality in
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 129 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh and around the project area can be improved by the application of following practices/ methods.
Pit Excavation work may be carried out after sprinkling water on the surface of the area to be mined on daily basis subject to site requirements. To settle down the dust in project area especially around crushing plants, excessive use of water sprinklers is the best method.
6.4.2. Ambient Noise Levels Monitoring and Management: Noise levels in the working area will be monitored once in every season till the continuation of mining operations. Ambient noise levels will also be monitored once in a season at one site each in the core and buffer zone preferably the stone crushing site at Balh village nearest to the mine site to evaluate the noise status and its effects on the surrounding community. The level of noise will definitely rise above threshold level in the project area. Therefore, it would be most appropriate if following measures are rigorously applied during construction phase of the project.
Continuous monitoring of sound level within the project area. Extensive plantation to be carried out in the project area as plants absorb sound and make a barrier for its travel to long distances. Provision of Air muffs to workers working in mine site. Compulsory Periodic Maintenance of transportation vehicles and crushing plant. 6.4.3. Water Quality Monitoring and Management: Water is one of most precious natural resources. Human beings are highly dependent on water for various purposes such as domestic needs, sanitation irrigation, industry, and disposal of wastes etc. The terrestrial and aquatic fauna also depend upon the water. The catchment of the Rana Khad and its tributaries upto the mine site does not host any industry. Thus, the stream water is almost free from major industrial chemical pollutants. The mining activity in riverbed will lead to increase in siltation though to a lesser degree. Further, due to congregation of laborers during the construction phase, the water quality in this stretch may get deteriorated if proper sanitation facilities are not provided to them. The probable water pollutants which may cause pollution during the construction phase of this project are:-
Suspended solids Biodegradable organic matters Pathogens and vectors Nutrients Dissolved inorganic solids
The Bureau of Indian Standards has prescribed clear cut guidelines for the maintenance of surface water quality standards which are given in Table 6.1.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 130 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Table 6.1 : National River Water Quality Standards for Different Uses*
Sl. Characteristics Tolerance Limit No. Drinking Outdoo Drinking Fish Irrigatio water r water culture n source bathing source and industri with with wildlife al conventi convention propagat cooling onal al ion or A B C D E treatmen treatment controll 1. pH value 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 t but after ed 2. Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l), 6 5 4 4 - disinfection water min disposal 3. BOD (5-days at 200 C, 2 3 3 - - mg/l, min 4. Total Coliform Organism, 50 500 5000 - - MPN/100, max 5. Colour, Hazen units, max 10 300 300 - - 6. Odour 10 300 300 - - 7. Taste Tasteless - - - - 8. Total Dissolved Solids, 500 - 1500 - 2100 mg/l, max 9. Total Hardness (as 300 - - - -
CaCO3),mg/l, max. 10. Calcium Hardness (as 200 - - - -
CaCO3), mg/l, max 11. Magnesium Hardness (as 100 - - - -
CaCO3), mg/l, max 12. Copper (as Cu), mg/l, max 1.5 - 1.5 - - 13. Iron (as Fe), mg/l, max 0.3 - 0.5 - - 14. Manganese (as Mn), mg/l, 0.5 - - - max 15. Chloride (as Cl), mg/l, max 250 - 600 - 600
16. Sulphates (as SO4), mg/l, 400 - 400 - 1000 max
17. Nitrates (as NO3), mg/l, 20 - 50 - - max 18. Fluorides (as F), mg/l, max 1.5 1.5 1.5 - - 19. Phenolic Compounds (as 0.002 0.005 0.005 - - C6H5OH), mg/l, max 20. Mercury (as Hg), mg/l, max 0.001 - - - - 21. Cadmium (as CD), mg/l, 0.01 - 0.01 - - max 22. Selenium (as Se), mg/l, 0.01 - 0.05 - - max
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 131 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 23. Arsenic (as As), mg/l, max 0.05 0.2 0.2 - - 24. Cyanide (as CN), mg/l, 0.05 0.05 0.05 - - max 25. Lead (as Pb), mg/l, max 0.1 - 0.1 - - 26. Zinc (as Zn), mg/l, max 15 - 15 - - 27. Chromium (as Cr6+), mg/l, 0.05 - 0.05 - - max
28. Anionic Detergents (as 0.2 1 1 - - MBAS), mg/l, max. 29. Polynuclear Aromatic 0.2 - - - - Hydrocarbons (as PAH) 30. Mineral Oil, mg/l, max 0.01 - 0.1 0.1 - 31. Barium (as Ba), mg/l, max 1 - - - - 32. Silver (as Ag), mg/l, max 0.05 - - - - 33. Pesticides Absent - - - - 34. Alpha emitters, uC/ml, max 10-9 10-9 10-9 - - 35. Beta emitters, uC/ml, max 10-8 10-8 10-8 10-8 10-8 36. Free Ammonia (as N), - - - 1.2 mg/l, max 37. Electrical Conductance at - - - 1000 x 10-6 2250 x 10- 250C, mhos, max 6 38. Free Carbon dioxide (as - - - 61 CO), mg/l, max 39. Sodium absorption ratio - - - - 26 40. Boron (as B), mg/l, max - - - - - 41. Percent sodium, max - - - - - * IS: 2296 Water monitoring in every season except monsoon will be done for the river/khad at one location each on u/s and d/s extremity of the core area and compared to baseline in order to have look, if any corrective measures are needed. The water quality parameters to be monitored quarterly are shown in Table 6.2. Table 6.2 : Physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters will be monitored
S. No. Parameter S. No. Parameter 1 pH 12 Fluorides 2 Electrical Conductivity 13 Iron 3 Turbidity 14 DO 4 Water Temperature 15 Phosphates 5 TSS 16 BOD 6 TDS 17 COD 7 Total hardness 18 Alkalinity 8 Magnesium 19 Chlorides
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 132 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 9 Calcium 20 Oil and Grease 10 Nitrates 21 Total Coliform 11 Sulphates 22 E-Coli
6.4.4. Soil Quality Assessment: Soil samples will be collected from one site each at core and buffer zone and quality will be checked once every except monsoon in order to see any positive or negative impacts of the operations. Soil samples will be collected from the plantation areas within the ML area in order to observe the improvement or deficiencies in the soil fertility and to take corrective actions. The soil analysis shall be carried out for the physico chemical characteristics like pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon and status of macro – nutrients like Nitrogen, Phosphate, Potassium and micro – nutrients like zinc, iron, boron, etc.
6.4.5. Plantation Plantation before the onset of monsoon season will be done progressively until the final closure of the mine. An environment management group will carry out the monitoring as per schedule durations and parameters mentioned in Table 6.3.
6.4.6. Monitoring of erosion and stability of river bank The project proponent shall closely monitor the condition of the bank of the river/khad with in the mine lease area, one time each before monsoon and post monsoon. Based on the observation, the corrective measures in the form of retaining wall / gabion structure shall be provided at the affected banks at the toe, to control the land slips/bank erosion, if necessary boulder sparse shall be proposed for channelizing the river current.
6.5. Environment Management Group For implementation of Environment Management Plan, a small unit called Environment Management Group will be formed under the control of the Environment Engineer. The job of this cell will be:
Implementation of pollution control measure. Monitoring programme implementation. Post-plantation care. To estimate the efficiency of pollution control measures taken. To bring out any other unforeseen effect on environment not covered under report. Seeking expert’s advice when needed.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 133 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh The task of monitoring of various environmental parameters could be assigned to H. P. State Pollution Control Board or any other agency approved by MoEF / SPCB. However, the project proponent shall procure a few field instruments like RDS, Noise level meter, Water testing kit.
6.6. Environment Policy/Violations of Environment Norms/ Hierarchal System 6.6.1. Environment Policy Beas Valley Power Corporation Limited, formed for execution of the works of UHL Stage III HEP (100 MW), is a legal heir of erstwhile Himachal Pradesh Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited. It is a state govt. undertaking and is entrusted with the job of construction of UHL Stage III Project. The HEP has been accorded Environmental Clearance by the MoEF in the year 2003. The present mining project is for obtaining riverbed material for the production of coarse and fine aggregates to be consumed in project work, therefore the activity related to the mining project are incumbent upon the main HEP. The BVPCL has no laid down environmental policy of its own, but is strictly adhering to the central and the state rules and acts in context to the environment protection BVPCL is already complying with the environmental norms and conditions set forth in the main Environmental Clearance of the project and is submitting compliance to the MoEF periodically as warranted under th9e EC letter.
6.6.2. Infringement / deviation of the environment or forest norms/conditions The BVPCL is complying with the environmental norms set out by the Center / State Government, which are being closely monitored by the MoEF, New Delhi and the State Pollution Control Board, Shimla, Forest Department. IPH department and Geological Wing of Department of Industries, Himachal Pradesh. Any infringement / deviation / violation of the rules contained in various environment and other rules and acts such as State Environmental Policy, 2005, State Water Policy, 2003, State Forest Policy, 1980, Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, 1987, and Noise Pollution (Regulation & Control) Rule 2000. The Himachal Pradesh minor minerals (concession) revised rules, 1971, if and whenever brought to the notice of BVPCL, the same are being addressed by the corporation / construction agencies engaged for the project. As a safeguard a well-documented Environment monitoring plan has been formulated.
6.6.3. Hierarchical System of the Company The BVPCL, like any other corporation, has a pyramid type hierarchal system for administration. The corporation is headed by the Chairman duly assisted by the Managing Director as project head. The Engineer – In- Charge of work (E.I.C.) is responsible for
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 134 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh execution of works under the project and he is supported by four Senior Executive Engineers who are responsible for direct execution of work and planning. Twelve Assistant Engineers Civil / Electricals (A.E.) supervise the construction work under jurisdiction of the concerned Sr. Executive engineer. The environmental issues and compliance of the EC conditions is being looked into by the Sr. Executive Engineers ------through the Assistant Engineers deputed for the Environmental work. The Hierarchical Administrative Setup is shown in Figure 6.1.
Figure 6.1 : Hierarchical Administrative Setup 6.7. Cost of Environment Monitoring Plan The cost in respect of monitoring of environmental attributes, parameter to be monitored, sampling/monitoring locations with frequency and cost provision against each is shown in Table 6.3. The total cost of environmental plan works out to Rs. 2.50 lac.
Table 6.3 : Summary of Environmental Monitoring Programme Sl. Aspect Parameters to Frequency Location Cost Implementing and No. be monitored Estimates Pursuing Agency (Rs. lac) 1 Air Quality SO , NO , CO, Four weeks in 2 locations as 2 X H.P. State Pollution Control monitoring one season already specified PM10 0.9 Board or any approved except monsoon agency of MOEF 2 Noise Quality Noise level Once quarterly 2 locations as H.P. State Pollution Control Monitoring except monsoon already specified 0.2 Board or any approved agency of MOEF 3 Water quality All parameters Once quarterly 2 locations as H.P. State Pollution Control Monitoring given in water except monsoon already specified 0.9 Board or any approved quality agency of MOEF
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 135 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 4 Soil Parameters Once yearly 2 locations as given under soil except monsoon already specified H.P. State Pollution Control monitoring 0.3 Board or any approved agency of MOEF
5. Plantation Plants and At the time of Green belt area shrubs in the plantation before within the mine Project Proponent as routine green belt area monsoon and lease area, haul - inspection and there quarterly roads mortality status thereafter 6. Erosion and Conditions of Before monsoon Bank Stability vulnerable banks and post Project Proponent as routine Lease area - and of check monsoon every inspection dam /spurs year 7. Celebration of Environment Yearly At village Balh 0.2 Project Proponent Day 2.50
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 136 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh CHAPTER 7. : Additional Studies 7.1. General After having gone through the various aspects of the river bed mining at the proposed site and the related documents like Form–I and PFR, the SEAC, H.P., in its 22nd meeting, held on 1.1.2013, set out the scoping clearance and issued ToR proposed for environmental impact assessment studies and preparation of environmental management plan for River bed mining and for submission of report after Public Hearing. The Terms of Reference issued by the SEAC, Himachal Pradesh is very comprehensive and subjective covering every aspects of mining activities and the related environmental issues to be addressed.
7.2. Public Consultation Himachal Pradesh Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited and now its legal heir “Beas Valley Power Corporation Limited” has been executing the works of UHL Stage III HEP (100 MW) for quite a long time. The public of the area is well aware of the project, which has been already accorded the Environmental Clearance by the MoEF, New Delhi. Now the project proponent intend to use the river bed material of Rana khad in construction of the different project component, for which purpose the EIA of the riverbed mine is being carried out in accordance with Terms of Reference. During site visit by the EIA team interacted with the local villagers in context to the project though no acquisition of public land and thus R&R issue is involved. In consonance with the EIA notification 14th September 2006, vide section 7(i) related to public consultation, the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board shall conduct the Public Hearing for ascertaining concerns of local affected persons or other concerned persons having plausible stake in the environmental aspect of the project activity. After completion of the public consultation, the project proponent shall address all the material environmental concerns expressed during the consultation process.
7.3. Risk Assessment The mining activities involve certain types of hazards, during operation and close, which can disrupt normal activities abruptly and lead to disaster like fires, inundation, failure of machinery, explosion, to name a few. The impending dangers or risks, which need be investigated addressed, disaster management plan formulated with an aim to taking precautionary steps to avert disaster and to take such action after the disaster, which limits the damage to the minimum. Nevertheless, the following natural/industrial problem may be encountered during the open cast manual riverbed mining operation at the mine site.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 137 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Inundation is mine pits. Failure of Slope of riverbanks. Surface fire (Oil). In order to take care of above hazards/disasters, the following will be strictly followed: Working of mines as per approved plans. All safety precautions and preventions of CMR 1957 shall be strictly followed during all mining operations. Regular maintenance of transport vehicles. Entry of unauthorized persons will be prohibited. Periodic checking of worthiness of fire fighting and first aid provision in the mining area. Training and refresher courses for all the employees. As a part of disaster management plan, a rescue team will be formed by imparting specialized training to select mining staff.
7.4. Inundation Though no mining activities is envisaged during monsoon season (June to September), yet in the context of the present mine the inundation cannot be ruled out due to flash flood in the catchment during non-monsoon season. Following precautionary measures shall be undertaken
The local nalas will be diverted along the boundary of lease area. A careful assessment of the danger of inundation from surface water shall be made before onset of monsoon season every year and adequate precautions against such dangers shall be implemented. Effectiveness of precautions, obstruction in normal drainage system etc. shall be checked regularly. Standing orders for withdrawal of persons from mine in case of apprehended danger shall be framed and enforced.
7.5. Disaster Due to Failure of Pit Slope The mining involves excavation in pits of only 1m depth from the natural surface level in the riverbed. The riverbed material is a consolidated matrix comprising of boulders, shingles and sand having an angle of repose of 300 - 450. Since the depth of the pit is less and the slope material has a good angle of repose, probability of any planer failure, or wedge failure of pit are not there. Beside this the angle of slope may further improve in wet conditions.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 138 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 7.6. Disaster Due to Failure of Mine Waste Dump Sliding of surface waste dump is an equally severe risk compared to quarry slope failure. Hence, it is imperative that the degree of hazard against potential failure of waste dump slopes should be identified and that precautionary measures are adopted, if required. The over all waste dump slope, considering the angle of repose, should not be more than 35º-37º. In the present case of riverbed mining, the mine waste material is silt and clay which have been proposed to be disposed in the area designated for plantation and shall be properly dressed and levelled for creation of the green belt / plantation. Thus, no surface dumps have been proposed under the plan. Besides this the small heaps of finer material like sand are likely to be formed during the screening process. The natural heap surface of about 1m high have an angle of repose of about 250 and are quite safe.
7.7. Disaster Due to Surface Fire The chances of surface fire resulting per se from the manual riverbed mining activities are well-nigh impossible. In winters the labour some time use fuel wood to warm themselves. The fire can result from the negligence of the labour, but it will be localized and shall not spread as the core zone area of the mine has no appreciable woody material, which can easily catch fire. As a safety, measure against fire hazard a fire extinguisher will be installed at rest shelter.
7.8. Disaster Management Plan In order to handle disaster/emergency situations, an organizational chart entrusting responsibility to various project personnel will be prepared with their specific roles during emergency.
7.9. Occupational Health and Safety The effects of air pollution on human health are well documented. There are controversies in many respects, but there is sample evidence to show that air pollution is definitely a contributing factor to chronic bronchitis, asthma and emphysema. Health and Safety Measures to control dust inhalation; precautions would be adopted to prevent dust generation at site and dispersing in the environment. For the safety of workers at site, engaged at strategic dust generation points like loading and unloading points, screening plant etc., dust masks would be provided. Dust masks would prevent inhalation of RSPM thereby reducing the risk of lung diseases and other respiratory disorders. Regular health monitoring of workers will be carried out. Lung function test and audiometry test will be the essential part of health checkups as mine workers are prone to these. The mines
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 139 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh management prepares particular budget of Rs. 500.00 per employee/year for the health maintenance of all the employees who will be employed at the mine site. First aid facility should be available at the rest shelter Training will be imparted to all the workers for health safety measures so that they can use the protective equipments essentially and effectively. Qualified Vocational Training Officer will be employed to impart the training to all the employees on regular basis. The following personal protection equipments
Industrial Safety Helmet; goggles; Ear muffs / earplug; Dust mask; hand gloves; Industrial safety shoes with steel toe. 7.10. Social Impact Assessment The project does not involve acquisition of any private land or asset and thus there shall be no project affected persons
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 140 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh CHAPTER 8. : PROJECT BENEFITS 8.1. General The forthcoming project shall open new vista for employment in the area in many spheres. With the commencement of proposed mining activities, a new horizon shall emerge to the local populace for their social upliftment. The mine lease area neither entails any acquisition of any private land or property nor any displacement of persons. Therefore, it will herald all positive benefits to the society.
8.2. Employment Potential 8.2.1. Mining Activities About 45 local labors shall be engaged for extraction of Stone/Sand/Bajri and loading and handling of mineral in mining area, besides, watch and ward and plantation activity with proper maintenance. The majority of manpower belonging to skilled/semi-skilled/unskilled shall be indigenously available. Therefore, it is estimated that approx. 45 persons shall be benefited by direct employment.
8.2.2. Implementation of Management Plans Various management plans, suggested as mitigation measures, viz. Green Belt Development, erection of retaining wall/check dam and maintenance of haul road are highly labour oriented forestry/civil work with lesser material component. The forestry works involved under these plans do not involve any State of the art for which especial labour is warranted. In fact, these routine works can be executed to perfection by the skilled/semi/skilled/unskilled labour locally available.
8.3. State Exchequer Commencement of mining activities shall result in direct revenue to the state Exchequer in the form of royalty, trade/sales tax, cess etc.
8.4. Betterment of Trade and Commerce With coming up of new township for housing the mine workers/personnel, there shall be an increase in demand of all commodities. Thus, there shall be a general boost to business and commerce in the area.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 141 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh CHAPTER 9. : Environmental Management Plan 9.1. General Based on the evaluation of baseline data and predicted impacts, suitable and plausible management plans are to be formulated for implementation, to minimize the negative impacts in the environmental attributes of land, water, air, noise, ecological and socio-economics. The implementation of all the management plans should commence pari passu with the commencement of mining activities so that the environmental ambiguities going to crop up may be resolved before the completion of conceptual plan of the mine i.e. towards the end of life of mine. Various environmental management plans, designed within the framework of statutory and regulatory requirements on environmental and socio-economic aspects to attain sustainable development are described in the proceeding sections.
9.2. Pollution Control Measures 9.2.1. Air Pollution Control In riverbed manual mining, dust emissions are generated during various mining activities, material handling and due to plying of transportation trucks in the mine lease area and also on haul roads. However, the EIA study has shown that ground level concentration of
pollutants like PM10, SO2 and NOX are within the NAAQS Are well and when become airborne lead to increase in particulates level in the ambient air. The detailed mitigation measures as contained in Section 4.7. The project proponent shall ensure that these are strictly followed. Besides this the ambient air quality monitoring shall be periodically carried out at locations and frequencies mentioned under Section Chapter 6.4.1. Apart from these mitigation measures, the idle running of transport vehicles at the mine site shall be totally avoided. The sprinkling of water on surface of haul roads and over the silt/clay dispose in the plantation area shall involve major cost component of the works towards air pollution control. Considering an expenditure of Rs. 1000/day for 270 days annually, a sum of Rs. 2.70 lac has to be earmarked under air pollution control measures.
9.2.2. Noise Pollution Control The noise monitoring shows that day and night time noise levels are highest at mine site and due to flow of river and exceed the prescribed limit, Leq day and night noise level at the site is 71.8 dB(A). The other source of noise at the site is due to operation of transport vehicle. The impact study shows that the noise levels due to noise source from river and truck movement are attenuated after 100 m distance from the mine site. The resultant noise levels are very high at mine site (85.2 dB(A)). The detailed mitigation measures are contained in Section 4.6. The project proponent shall ensure that these are strictly followed. Besides this
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 142 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh the ambient air noise level monitoring shall be periodically carried out at locations and frequencies mentioned under Section Chapter 6.4.2. The environmental surroundings near the mine site like vegetal cover greatly attenuate the noise level. On this account the green belt shall be developed along the haul road as well as in the area earmarked for plantation within the lease, the cost of development of greenbelt has been separately assessed. The cost of other equipments like ear plug/muff and noise level monitoring during the course of mining have been included under occupational health and safety plan and environmental monitoring plan.
9.2.3. Water Pollution Control 9.2.3.1 Surface Water The major impact due to riverbed surface mining is the increase siltation owing to sediment particles coming under the influence of the current and also due to toe erosion of bank in the mine lease area. In the impact studies, it has been established that the resultant value of the TSS shall be too low to create any considerable impact on the turbidity in the river water. The transparency of water shall not be impaired to the extent that the available sunlight ceases to power the photosynthetic reaction. Apart from the mitigation measures suggested in Section 4.5.2, spillage of stone and sand into the flowing water should be avoided during transportation. The plantation under the green belt programme shall also help in checking the erosion of the bank. Besides this the ambient air noise level monitoring shall be periodically carried out at locations and frequencies mentioned under Section Chapter 6.4.3. For control of the toe erosion of banks retaining structures/Gabion structures shall have to be erected as per approved mine plan. Thus, there is no cost implication of this plan as all work activities are covered under other plans.
< 9.2.3.2 Ground Water The base level study have revealed that there will be no impact on neither groundwater effect as the ground water table is intersected nor the mineral formation any toxic elements. Thus no mitigation measures are warranted.
9.2.4. Land Environment Any mining activity may alter the land use pattern in the lease area. In order to minimise the adverse effects, the following suggestions have been made. Degradation of land is not a very significant adverse impact of river terrace mining due creation of access roads, mining operations, transportation of mined material. In order to prevent the environmental degradation of leased mine area and its surroundings, the following measures shall be taken;
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 143 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Minimal damage to the flora standing around the lease area.
Foreign material should neither be allowed to remain/spill in lease area, nor the pits/pockets will be allowed to be filled with such material,
No stockpiling of extracted sand and stone shall be done outside the lease area.
9.2.5. Biological Environment The dust is the only major pollutant, which will be generated from different activities of mining. The effect of particulate matter on vegetation is in the form of incrustation, plugging of stomata, and loss of chlorophyll and reduction of photosynthesis process. No endangered species of fauna is found in and around lease area. As such, there will be temporary and insignificant effect on terrestrial fauna around the mining lease area. The mining activities shall result in slight increase in siltation. Increased turbidity of the water results in lesser penetration of sunlight thereby affecting photosynthesis of the phytoplankton (Ripley, 1966), which are primary producers in aquatic ecosystems. Increased sediment loads may also alter the benthic fauna. The annual plantation proposed for five years of mining period shall greatly help in developing a good vegetal cover on the upper terrace near the bank of the river and eventually attract micro fauna, birds etc. in the area. Thus, there will be positive impact on terrestrial environment around the mine lease area. The increase in siltation due to mining shall be controlled by creating greenbelt and soil conservation works.
9.2.6. Social Environment With the commencement of the project, there shall be direct employment opportunity for 45 workers, besides this the project will open vista for employment in transportation sector, besides generation opportunity for deployment in activities related to stone crushing plant. Since no private land is to be acquired for mining, thus the ticklish issues touching and arising due to R&R issues are not involved. Therefore, impact of riverbed mining of sand stone and bajari on the social economics of the area shall be a very positive one. It will also provide stimulus to the business and commerce of local market at Machyal. The small-time shopkeepers running hotel/Dhaba shall also be benefitted. As a token of goodwill the project proponent shall provide free of cost riverbed material (aggregate) to villages, in consultation with panchayat, for construction of building public utility, schools and other religious buildings.
9.2.6.1 Corporate Social Responsibility
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 144 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh The Beas Valley Power Corporation Limited, formed for execution of the works of UHL Stage III HEP (100 MW), is a legal heir of erstwhile Himachal Pradesh Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited. It is a state govt. undertaking and is entrusted with the job of construction of UHL Stage III Project. The project is a hydroelectric project. The State of Himachal Pradesh has formulated a Hydro Power Policy in 2006. One of the principle objectives of this policy was to secure benefits for the project-affected areas by creation of Local Area Development Committee financed through Power Projects. In tune with the stipulations of Hydro Power Policy, 2006, a provision of 1.5% of the final cost of the projects above 5 MW and 1% for projects upto 5 MW has been made for Local Area Development activities to be financed by the Developers. This provision is applicable for new as well as on-going projects. The entire contribution towards Local Area Development Activities to be maintained in the shape of Local Area Development Fund (LADF), which will be administered by a committee, called Local Area Development Committee (LADC) comprising of various stakeholders including Government departments, project developers and local members from project- affected areas. The present mining project is for obtaining riverbed material for the production of coarse and fine aggregates to be consumed in project work, therefore the activity related to the mining project are incumbent upon the main HEP. Thus under the CSR activities the project proponent have incurred expenditure in respect of LADA works. The work activities have been carried out under Joginder Nagar and Ladbharol Tehsil. The expenditure under this head till 15 May 2013 is Rs. 933.12 lac. The tehsil-wise break up is shown in Table 9.1.
Table 9.1 : Expenditure under LADA works (upto 15-05-2013) Tehsil Total no. of work activities (estimates) Expenditure (Rs. In Lac)
Joginder Nagar 176 632.28 Ladhbharol 103 300.84 Total 279 933.12
The expenditure incurred under LADA works in respect of gram panchayat Balh upto 15/05/2013 is Rs. 47.31 lac. The work activities carried out under LADA works are presented in Table 9.2.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 145 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Table 9.2 : Estimate-wise expenditure under LADA works carried out in gram panchayat Balh Sr. Name of Work Up to date No. Expenditure (15.5.13) II LADA WORK UNDER UCD-II JOGINDERNAGAR :- 01 Providing rehabilitation to lift water supply scheme to Balh & Chalharg 1136116 villages 02 Construction of special repair to Patwar Bhawan at Balh 41908 03 Construction of ground for social activities at Machhyal 118240 04 Construction of 0.90 meter wide foot path from HPPWD Road near Matta 26816 Chattar Bhuja Temple in Balh Village 05 Construction of 0.90 meter wide foot path from village Balh Jolly to PWD 76092 road near Matta Chamunda Temple 06 Carrying out channelisation of existing Kuhal & Construction of path in 842218 village Bagla a/w Khul in village Balh. 07 Construction of 1.20 meter wide foot path from drift point at Machhyal to 204476 village Balh + 750 meters long 08 Construction of 1.20 meter wide foot path from drift point up to village Balh 77633 09 Construction of RCC foot bridge across Nallaha falling on foot path at village 164073 Balh 10 Providing lift water supply scheme to village Balh & Chalarg 153624 11 Providing & installing of submerrcible pump of water supply to village Balh & 67565 Chalarg 12 Supply of drinking water to village Balh, Chalarg & Khuddar 65000 13 Construction of 1.20 meter wide foot path from Gha Nallah to village Baru in 211113 Balh Panchayat 14 Providing creates wall for protection of house of Sh. Ghanshyam & Shukhiya 207568 Ram at village Balh 15 Construction of RCC foot bridge on Balh Nallah at Beru sub village near HRT 232023 Intel Portal 16 Construction of foot bridge over Balh Nallah 173527 17 Construction of play ground of Middle school Balh 173462 18 Construction of Balance work of community hall building at Balh (in village 215159 Balh) 19 Construction of boundary wall behind Govt. Middle school at Balh 44216 20 Construction of foot path from village Dalana to Drobra in gram panchyat 192512 Balh 21 Construction of sarrain in near Shiv Temple at Dalana I gram panchyat Balh 281799 22 Construction of community sarrain near Balh temple in gram panchyat Balh 25957 Total 4731097
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 146 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 9.3. Green Belt development plan In order to mitigate and minimize the environmental impacts, arising due to riverbed mining project especially from air pollution, noise pollution, soil erosion etc. the Greenbelt development in the area delineated in the work cum environmental management plan can provides the best mitigation option. The green canopy not only absorbs some of these pollutants but also improves the aesthetic environment. Therefore, a “Green Belt Development Plan” has been proposed around the mine lease area and along the un- metaled haul road to crushing unit.
9.3.1. Development of Greenbelt The green belt is proposed to be developed in the area of upper terraces and areas prohibited for mining and along the network of haul roads. The strategy worked out for development of green belt consists of following:
Broad leaf trees growing above 10 m in height should be planted along the roads, offices and infrastructure facilities. Plantation of trees should be undertaken in appropriate encircling rows. Generally local/indigenous fast growing trees shrubs should be planted. The trees should be protected by plantation of non palatable shrub species to avoid browsing by animals. Placement of tree guards be provided to save the plants.
9.3.2. Guidelines and Techniques for Green Belt Development Based on environmental conditions suitable indigenous plants species shall be planted under green belt development plan. The requirement of plants sapling for development of green belt shall be made from the nearby forest nursery. The soil characteristics were also kept in mind.
9.3.3. Precautions During Plantation Some important precautions should be taken during the plantation, which are as under:
Open grazing is practiced in general in the area; therefore, protection should be provided in advance. Polyculture should be practiced. Mixture by group should be preferred over intimate mixture. Indigenous species recommended should be planted in sufficient numbers to increase their population size in the area. Multipurpose species should be planted in large numbers.
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 147 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 9.3.4. Annual Programme for Plantation under green belt The greenbelt shall be developed annually in approximately 0.16ha area. The area designated for each year shall be planted with trees and shrubs @ 1100 plants/ha. (Table 9.3) The environment management plan is shown in Figure 9.1
Table 9.3 : Budget for green belt development plan (Rs. in lakhs) S. No. Component Cost (Rs. Lac) 1 Cost of plantation including maintenance for 5 years and 1.00 establishment charges @ Rs 1.25 lac/ ha for 0.8 ha 2 Thorny brushwood protection guard for 880 sapling @ Rs 0.088 10/No. 3 Cost of FYM and Bio-fertilizer 0.40 4 Cost of watering / irrigation in green belt 0.40 5 Cost of plantation along haul road 0.50 6 Contingency 0.11 Total 2.498 Say Rs. 2.50
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 148 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
76°47'00" 76°47'10" 76°47'20" 76°47'30" 76°47'40" 76°47'50" 31°57'00" 31°57'00" A HFL R/WALL/SPUR I TO IV YEAR
871
871 S/C I & III YEAR HFL PLANTATION I,II& IV YEAR S B I, III & V YEAR N
S/C II , III & IV YEAR R/WALL/SPUR I TO IV YEAR
C PLANTATION II YEAR871 Q
870 D 31°56'50" 865 31°56'50" ISLAND
870 E F Q ISLAND
P S/C V YEAR O
868 L R/WALL/SPUR V YEAR M 867 N 866
K 864 865 RANA KHAD 863 862 861 31°56'40" 31°56'40"
865
865
R/WALL/SPUR V YEAR
860
DRY NALA
S/C II, IV YEAR
ISLAND S/C II, IV YEAR 859 G
858
860 PLANTATION V YEAR
PLANTATION IV YEAR857 LEGEND LEASE BOUNDARY 852 851 J853 853 HFL
31°56'30" 860 855 BOUNDARY PILLAR I H 31°56'30"
865 CONTOUR LINE HIGH FLOOD LEVEL
HFL 850
855
860
RIVER/ KHAD 865 EXISTING TREES 1 5th WIDTH OF KHAD DRY NALA/KHAD 31°56'20" 76°47'00" 76°47'10" 76°47'20" 76°47'30" 76°47'40" 31°56'20" 76°47'50"
ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN OF RIVER BED MINING SITE BALH
CONTOUR INTERVAL = 5m SCALE : 1:2500
Figure 9.1 :Environment Management Plan 9.4. Solid Waste Management 9.4.1. General The following types of solid wastes are likely to generate from the mining activities during the mining period.
Waste from mining in the form of silt/clay Solid waste from Septic tank/Soak pit
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 149 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh The above-mentioned solid wastes can play havoc and have severe impacts on the ecosystem if not properly addressed through well designed management plans in their respect.
9.4.2. Management of Waste from Mine No solid waste other than silt/clay, which deposits as crust material on the bed profile, shall be scrapped and deposited into the mine pits or in the upper terraces earmarked for plantation. Approximately 2150 MT (about 1536 cum) of silt/clay shall be produced during 5 years. The year-wise estimation of quantity of solid waste is shown in Table 9.4, the quantity of scrapped crust material (clay) which is in excess of the quantity required for plantation purpose in upper terraces shall be deposited in the riverbed pits.
Table 9.4 : Year-wise Production of Solid waste S. No. Year Mineable Area Volume of Tonnage @ Solid waste (sq. m.) Raw Material 2.25 MT/cum in form of (cum) Silt/Clay
1 1st 20000 20000 45000 450 2 2nd 17777 17777 40000 400 3 3rd 20000 20000 45000 450 4 4th 17777 17777 40000 400 5 5th 20000 20000 45000 450 Total 95554 95554 215000 2150
It is evident from the soil characteristics of the core zone that it has low contents of macronutrients Nitrogen and in Organic carbons. The soil shall be mixed with urea and farmyard manure (FYM) so as to increase its fertility. Apart from this, the bio-fertilizers shall be added to the soil.
9.4.3. Cost for management of mine waste The cost of management of mine waste (Silt/Clay) by manual carriage and disposal / spreading into the areas earmarked for plantation @ Rs. 98/cum for 1536 has been assessed as Rs. 1.50 lac.
9.5. Occupational Health Management Plan Stone/Sand/Bajri mining does not contain any toxic element. Therefore, the likelihood of any health hazard does not arise due to the mined product per se. However, the process of excavation / quarrying leads to some health hazards. The most significant occupational health impacts are Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) and Occupational Lung Disease
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 150 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh (OLD) due to inhalation of dust. As per Mines Rules, 1955, medical examination of employees at the initial stage and periodically, shall be done by a team of qualified medical officers provided by the project proponent. Regular medical check-up camps shall also be arranged for detection of occupational diseases and minor disease in the nearby rural population. Free check-up and medicine for treatment for their acute and chronic illness shall be provided.
9.5.1. Occupational Health & Safety Measures to Control Dust Inhalation Providing a working environment that is conducive to safety and health. The management of occupational safety and health is the prime responsibility of mine management. Employee involvement and commitment in the implementation of health and safety guidelines. Periodical health checkups Implementing safety and health management system and assessing the effectiveness through periodic audits. Monitoring the effects of mining activities on safety and health and conducting regular performance reviews. Provision of necessary personal protective equipments. Establishing and maintaining a system of medical surveillance for employees Ensuring employees at all levels receive appropriate training and are competent to carry out their duties and responsibilities.
All the above precautions would be adopted to prevent dust generation at site and to be dispersed in the outside environment. However, for the safety of workers at site, engaged at strategic locations / dust generation points like loading and unloading points, screening sieve, dust masks would be provided. Dust masks would prevent inhalation of RPM thereby reducing the risk of lung diseases and other respiratory disorders. Regular health monitoring of workers will be carried out.
9.5.2. Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) Hearing conservation programmes exists at all operations. Baseline audiogram forms the basis for future assessment of employees in terms of hearing loss.
Using engineering initiatives to reduce noise at source is the priority management tool. The hearing conservation programme includes the provision of Hearing Protection Devises (HPDs) and annual audiometry examination of all employees. Apart from provision of HPDs emphasis is also laid on training the employees responsibility to protect his / her hearing. EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 151 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 9.5.3. Occupational Lung Diseases (OLD) There will be regular health camps for all the workers and nearby rural people. Lung function tests, chest X-rays etc. shall be carried out and any health disorders will be evaluated. The budget shall be earmarked for the necessary protective devices and training needs by the project proponent.
9.5.4. Incidence of Silicosis Continuous exposure to sand dust can lead to Silicosis, silica tuberculosis and pulmonary disease. Prolong contact with wet sand can cause fungal infection of hands and legs.
9.5.5. Cost Estimate For initial and periodical medical check-up of employee of the mines, who are engaged at the active mine site, budgetary provision of Rs. 600/employee/year shall be made. The provision at this stage is being made for 45 skilled/semi-skilled / unskilled labourers. The cost estimate is provided in Table-9.5.
Table 9.5 : Cost Estimate S. No. Particular Quantity Unit Rate Amount (Rs. lacs) 1. Yearly medical check up and cost 225 Man year 600 1.35 of free medicines to mine employees for 5 years 45 x 5 = 225 man year 2. Provision for personal protection 45 No. 2000 0.90 equipment like ear plug, dusk mask, shoes, goggles and etc., for 45 workers 3. Provision for First Aid facilities 1 Job L.S. 0.15
4. Provision for fire extinguisher and 1 Job L.S. 0.10 its regular refilling Total 2.50
9.6. Soil conservation works Hard measures (Engineering structures) shall be constructed to control the toe erosion and land slips from falling into the river course. This can be accomplished by erecting stone masonry retaining structure / Gabion structures at stretch of bank showing sign of slope failure or imminent soil mass movement. Besides this, sometimes the river current is directed towards the bank, which are susceptible to toe erosion. In that scenario, it becomes necessary to repel the current from the bank, for which purpose-repelling spurs are to be
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 152 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh implemented. The advantage with the repelling spurs is that while diverting the current they create a quiet pocket d/s of these and are filled with river borne material. The provision for such structures have been incorporated in the working cum environmental management plan. The cost of which is assessed as Rs. 3.0 lac (Table 9.6).
Table 9.6 : Cost estimate of soil conservation works (engineering) Sl. Item Quantity Unit Rate Amount No. 1. RR Dry stone masonry (10 no.) Average dimension = 10 m long, 2m high and side slope 1:4 a. Excavation in foundation with 50% soft rock and 33 Cum 150.00 4950.00 50% E & B 10 x 10 x 1.10 x 0.3 = 1.65 b. RR stone masonry dry 170 Cum 300.00 51000.00 10 x 10 x (1.10 + 0.60 / 2) x 2.0 = 8.5 cum 2. Wire crate boulder Spurs for stream bank Protection (5no.) (a) Excavation in foundation with 50% soft 21.88 Cum 150 3282.00 rock & 50% E & B 5 x 3.5m x 2.5 x 0.5 (b) Filling of boulder and hand packing in 123.05 Cum 130.00 15966.00 Wire crates 2.25m x 1.25m x 1.25 in three tiers i.e. 3 in first tier 2 each in second and third tier. 5 x 7 (2.25 x 1.25 x 1.25) (c ) Collection of boulder 123.05 Cum 160.00 19688.00 (d) Carriage of boulder average lead 1 km 123.05 Cum 400.00 49220.00 manually (e) Cost of G.1 wire crates 5 x 7 x 15.10 sq m x 2.23 = 1178.55 kg or say 11.8 Qtl 7000 82600.00 11.8 Qtl (f) Carriage of G.1. wire crate to an average 11.8 Qtl 150.00 1770.00 lead of 1 km by ponies (g) Weaving of GI wire crate 528.5 20.00 10570.00 Total 239046.00 Add 3% Contingencies 7171.00
Grand Total 246217.00
Or say 2.5 lac
3 Annual care of river/khad 0.5 lac Say 3.0 lac
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 153 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 9.7. Capital Cost of Project
Table 9.7 Capital cost of project
S. No. Particular Capital Cost Recurring Cost Rs in Lakhs Rs in Lakhs
1. Construction of Rest Shelter 3.00 0.10 2. Construction of Latrine with soak pits 0.30 0.05 3. Arrangement of Drinking water 0.50 0.10 4. Mining Equipments 0.20 0.05 Total 4.00 0.3
9.8. Summary of cost of environment management plan
Table 9.8 : Total cost of environmental management plan
S. No. Name of Plan Capital Cost Recurring Cost Rs in Lakhs Rs in Lakhs 1. Environment Monitoring Plan for Air, - 2.50 Noise, Water, Soil, etc. 2. Air Pollution Control- - 2.70 Management of H a u l a g e R o a d s including Sprinkling. 3. Plantation / Green belt development 2.50 plan 4. Disposal and spreading of - 1.50 Silt/clay as per Mining Plan
5. Occupational Health Measures 1.15 1.35 Provision of PPE and other Miscellaneous expenditure 6. Soil Conservation works (Engineering) - 3.00
7. Corporate Social Responsibility (shall - - be met from the overall 1.5% of the estimated cost of UHL Stage III HEP, under LADF.)
Total 1.15 13.55
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. 154 Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Annexures
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. i Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Annexure I : Mine Lease Deed
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. ii Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Annexure II: Forest Clearance Letter
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. iii Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. iv Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Annexure III: Receipt of Application for Lease Renewal
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. v Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Annexure IV: NOC from Village Panchayat
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. vi Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Annexure V: NOC from IPH Department
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. vii Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Annexure VI: Approved Mine Plan
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. viii Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Annexure VII: Inventory of Forests
Botanical Name Family (Tree) Local Name English (Name) Abies pindrow Coniferae Tosh Silver Fir Acacia nilotica Leguminosal ( Mimosacese) Kikar - Acacia Catechu Legumilnosal ( Mimosacese) Khair - Acer Cecsium Sapindacea Mandru, Mandor Maple Acer oblongum Sapindacea Perange - Acer Sterculiaceum Sapindacea Chirandru Maple Adina Cordifolia Rubiaceae Haldu - Angle marmelos Rutacea Bel, Beelgiri - Aesoulus Indica Sapindacea Khanor Horse Chestnut Ailanthus alissima - Ailanthus Allanthus Albizzia Procera Leguminosa ( Mimosacese) Siris (White) - Albizzia Chinensis Leguminosa ( Mimosacese) Ohi - Albizzia Lebbek Leguminosa ( Mimosacese) Siris (Black) - Albizzia odoratissima Leguminosa ( Mimosacese) Siris - Alnus Nitida Cupuliferae Kosh, Kunish Alder Alnus neplensis Cupuliferae Kosh Alder Anogeissus latifolia Combretaceae Dhou, Chhal - Bauhinia pururea Leguminosal Karala (Kachnar) - Bauhinia variegata Leguminosal Kachnar.Karala - Belula Alnoides Cupuliferal Bhojpatra Birch Bombox Caiba Bombacacae Semal Red cotton tree Buxus walliciana Euphorbiaceal Shamshed Box wood Broussonetia papyrifera Niraceak Paper mulbery Careva viminsa Myrtracea Pool Himalayan Carpinus viminsa Cupuliferae Khirk, chevs Horabean Cassia Fistula Caesalpinniaceal Amaltas India laburnum Cassia siameal Caesalpinniaceal Caccia frondooa Caesalpinniaceal Callistemon viminalis Myrtaceal Bottle brush Caserria elliptica Samydaceal Pimple, Goels Cedrela serrata Melieceae Darle Bill Toon Cedral Toona Moliaceae Tooni, Tun Toon Cedrus deodara Coniferse Kelo, Diar Deodar Celtis australis Urticaceae Khirok Nottle tree Citrus limitta Rutaceae Jhamirdi Cordia dichotoma Boraginacoae Lasura Cordia vestita -do- Lasura Cornus capitata Cornaceaes Kreeva Dog Wood Cornus macrophylla . Cornaceae Kreeva Dog Wood Corylus Jacquemontrii Cupuliferas Sharol Hazienut Cupressus Semparvirans Conifarae Saru Pyremidal Cyprus
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. ix Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Delbergia sissoo Papillonaceae Shisham, Tali Sissoo Ehretia acuminata Boraginaceae Bakli Ehretia laevis Boraginaceae Chamror Amblica officindis Euphorbiaceae Amla Engelhardfua Colebrookiana Juglandaceae Samma Erythrina suberosa Papilioneceae Pariara Coral tree Eucalyptus commaldunsis Myrtaceae Safada River red gun Eucalyptus globulus Myrtaceae Safada Lemon scented gun Eucalyptus grandis Myrtaceae Safada Blue gun Eucalyptus hybrid Myrtaceae Safada Rose gun Eungnus tingens Celastraceae Kala chindwara Indian spind tree Euonynus lacerus Celastraceae Kala chindwara Ficus palmate Urticaceae Fagura, Fegra Wild fig Ficus Misbida -do Dobra - Ficus religious - Ficus religiosa Urticaceae Pipal Ficus roxburghii Urticaceae Tremal, Treimbal - Flacourtia rementlechi- Bixaceal Bixaceal Kangu, Kaudel - Fraxinus floribunda Ash Ficus sundaica Urticaceal Bar Banyan Grevillea robusta Proteaceal Silver Oak Grewia optive Tiliaceal Bihul Grewia elestica Tiliaceal Bihul Helarrhena antidysenterica Apocytacess llex dipyrena lllicineae Jacaranda ovalifolia Bignonicose Jacrands Walnut Kydia calycina Malvaceae Pula Lagerstroemia Indieca Lythraceae Har Singar Lannea grandis Anacardiaceae Selambra Litsaea umbrosa Lauraceae Paror Laurel Lauraceae Paror Laurel Litsaea leauphia Legyminosal (Mimosaceal) Subabool Lyonia ovalifolia Leguminosae Airean, Ehran Machilus duthiei Lauraceae Chirindi Machilus odovatissima Lauraceae Chirindi Mallotus Philippinesis Euphorbiaceae Kambal Kamila tree Mengifer Indiace Anacardiaceae Am Mango Melio azedarach Meliaceae Drek Persian Lilac Moringa Pterygosperma Moringaceae Saunjna Morus alba Urticaceae Chimmu Mulberry Morus serrata Urticaceae Paharitut Hil Mulberry Myrica esculenta Hyricaceae Kaphal Olea ferruginea Obaceal Kahu Oliva tree Oroxylum Indicum Bignoriaceae Arlu
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. x Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Desmodian ooheinese Leguminosal Sanden Phoenix sylvestris Palmae Khajur, Khajri Wild data palm Phoenix humilis Palmae Khajri Wild data palm Pieca smithiana Coniferal Rai Spruce Pinus roxburghii Conideral Chil Chil Pine Pinus wallchiana Cineferae Kail Blue Pine Pistacio integerrima Auacardiaceae Kakare Populus deltoides Salicaceae Chiluna, Pahari Popular Chiluna, Pahari Populus nigra Salicaceae Pipal Bhari Popular Pogamia pinnata Papiliona ceae Karanj Indian Beech Prunus armeniaca Rosaceae Chuli Wild Apricot Prunus cerasoides Rosaceae Paja Wild cherry Prunus cornuta Rosaceae Jammu Bird cherry Punica granatum Lythraceas Auar, Daru Pomegranate Pyrus lanate Rosaceae Bumfal Pyrus pashia Rosaceae Segal, Kainth Quercus Floribundea Cupliferae Mohru Greek Oak Quercus glauca Cupliferae Banni Greek Oak Quercus leucotrichophoya Cupliferae Ban White Oak Quercus semecarpifolia Capuliferae Kharsu Brown Oak Rhododendion Orboreum Ericaceae Burah Rhus Puojabensis Ericaceae Titri Robinia Pseudascacia Leguminasal Robinia Salix babylonica Salicaceae Majnu Weeping willow Salix denticulata Salicaceae Beuns Willow Salix tetre sperune Salicaceae Beuns Willow Dapinfud mukeresal Sapindacase Ritha Soap nut tree Sapium sebiferum Euphariceal Dudhla Chinese Tallow Symplaces cretsogoides Styraceal - Texus baccata Combretaceae Barmi, Rakhala Yew Terminalia Ballirica Combretaceae Behara Terminalia Chobula Combretaceae Harad Ulmus Villosa Utricaceal Marinu Small leaf elm Wrighlia tinotoris Apacynaceal Summa Wrighlia arborea Summa Xylosma longifolium Bixaceae Draindu Zizyphus Mauriiana Rhamaceae Beri
SHRUBS Justicia adhatoda Acanthacoae Basuti Agava cantula Ramban Andrachna Cordifalis Euphorbiaceae Durlu Artemisia Indica Composital Drubaha Artemisia vugaris Composital Drubaha
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. xi Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Artemisia vestita Composital Drubaha Artemisia vestita Composital Drubaha Baliospermummonatanum Euphorbiaceae Berberis ariatata Berberidaceae Kasmal Berberis chitria Berberidaceae Kasmal Berberis lycium Berberidaceae Kasmal Boebmerig maerophylle Urticaceae Siar Calotrpios procera Asclepiadeceae Akh Caragana brevispina Leguminoceae Shameh Carrisa opaca Apocynaceae Garana Carrisa spinarum Apocynaceae Garna, Khern Caryopteris wallichiana Verbenaceae Chilngari Caryopteris foetida Verbenaceae Rumri Cassia occidentalis Verbenaceae Chingari Cassia Obrusifona Leguminosal Cleroden Drum serratum Verdenaceae Bankakri Calebrookea Oppositifolia Labiatae Banse Cotonaster affinis Labiatae Banse Cotonaster congcstus Labiatae Banse Crotalaria prostata Leguminesae Banse Debregaesia salicifolia Urticaceabe Siaru Daphne cannabina Thymelaeaceae Kanla Desmodium sambuense Leguminesae Safed Kathi Desmodium elegans Leguminesae Safed Kathi Deutzia campacta Saxifragaceae Chururu Deutzia staminea Saxifragaceae Chururu Dodanaea viscosa Sepindaceae Mandru Druanta repens Verbanaceae Elaeagnus Pavvifolis Rlaeaghaceae Geai Elshoitza fructicosa Labiatae Pothi, Jaunkra Euphorbia royleane Euphorbiaceae Thor Euphorbia prolifera Euphorbiaceae Eunoymus fimriatus Odastraceae Flemingia prostrata Leguminosae Hamiltonia Suaveolens Rubiaceae Bari podari Hypericum oblongifolium Hypericaceae Bani Wakra Indigofera hebepetala Leguminosse Kathi Indigofera heterantha Leguminosse Indigofera cylindrica Leguminosse Indigofera cassiodes Leguminosse Inula cappa Compositae Inula barbata Compositae Ipomea spps. Convolvuaceae Japlota Jatorpha curcas Euphorbiacae Panch-phuli
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. xii Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Lantana camera Verbonacoae Choti podari Leptodermis lanceolata Rubiacoae Bilan Limonia spp. Rutacoae Roeni Parasita Loranthus Ligustrinus Loranthocaea Changari Lonicera angustifolia Caprifoliacese Lonicera Myrillus Caprifoliacese Loicora quinquelocularis Caorufikuacose Jamnu Murray paniculaia Rulaceae Murraya Keoingli Furaceae Myrsine africana Myrsineceae Kanaru Nerium Indicum Apocynaceae Nyctanthea Orbertristis Dleaceae Dlatchi Opuntia Moncantha Actaceae Ongeinie Dalbergioides Leguminosal - Phoenix acaulie Palmao Kajre Plectranthus Regesus Labiatae Chichri Plectranthus beddomi Labiatae Ptentilla Fruticosa Rosacoao Prinsepia utilis Rosacoao Bakhal Colimus corgygria Anacardiaceae Rikhal Rhus punjabensis Anacardiaceae Rikhal Rhododendraon companu Ericaceae Kachari patha Rioinus communis Enphorbiaceae Arand Royea calycina Labiatae Karnai titpoti Rubus biflorus Rosacoae Kala akha Rubus lasiocaarpus Rosacoae Kala akha Rubus paniculatus Rosacoae Kala akha Salix earelinii Salcacoae Cuino Salix denticulata Salcacoae Buins Salix dephonodies Salcacoae Bulns Sarcococca saligna Euphorbiaceae Charabri Skimmia anquelilia Rutaceae Nayr Spirae canescens Rosaceae Chakh Spirae bella Rosaceae Spiraes linlieyana Rosaceae Filipendula vestata -do- - Solenum erianthum Solanaceae Ban tamakhu Staphylea emodi Sapindaceae Negdaun Snahe sticks Tamarix troupii Tamaricaceae Jhao Viburnum cylindricum Caprifoliaceae Diha Viburnum cotinifolium Caprifoliaceae Dab Viburnum mullaha Caprifoliaceae Viburnum grandiflorum Caprifoliaceae Tilenal Vism album Loranthaceae Bhangra Mistletoe
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. xiii Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Vitex negundo Verbenaceae Banha Wikstroemia canescens Thymelaeaceae Tilak Woodfordia fruticosa Lythraceae Dawa Zanthoxylum Armatum Rutaceae Tirmira
HERBS Achillea millofolum Composotes Fye Achyranthes bidentata Amarantaceae Putkanda Achyranthes porlhysistachya Amarantaceae Putkanda Aconitum heterophyllum Renunculaceae Padish, Mohra Acorus Calamus Avaceae Barin Sweet Flag Adiantum capillusx Avaceae Barin Maiden hair Agrimonia Pilosa Rosacese Kanaula Ainsliaca Aptera Composital Durwa Ajuga parviflora Labbatae Darpatre Allium loratum Liliaceae - Anaphalis margaritacea Compositae - Anaphalis Conrotra Compositae Anaphalis triplinevis Compositae Anemone obtusiloba Rununculacas Anemone ribularis Rununculacas Anemone ribularis Rununculacas Arilia cachemirica Araliaceae Argenmone hellevorifolium Araeceae Arisaema intermedium Araceae Arisaema propinqum Araceae Cobra plant Asparagus adescendens Liliaceae Sabsi muli Asplenium polypotioides Linger Aster molliusculus Compositae Aster Penduncularis Compositae Astropa acuminate Solanaceae Saegngur Beenninghausenias Albiflora Rutaceae Pessumer Brunella vulgaris Labiatae Patindu Bupleurum Lanceoletum Umbelliferae Banjwain Bupleurum tenue Umbelliferae Banjwain Campanula latifolia Companulaceae Campanula colorata Companulaceae Cannabis sativa Utricaceae Bheng Hemp Capsella bursapastoris Vruciferae Shopherds purse Carum copticum Umbellifeae Jawain Cassia obtusifolia Leguminosae Chaerophyllum reflaxum Umbelliforae Khelti Chenopodium Floiosum Chonopodiacae Colous arematicus Labiatae Pathan beg Datura straonium Selanaceae Datura
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. xiv Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Delphinium incisum Ranulculaceae Delphinium vestitum Ranulculaceae Echinops niveus Compositae Elsholtziaestachyodia Labiatae Banjwana Erigeron Multitadiatus Compositae Foeniculum vulgare Umbelliferae Saunf Fenual Fragaria Indica Rosaceae Bhumla Straw berry Fumaria Parviflora Fumariaceae Pitpapra Fragaria rubiginosa Rosaceae Galium spp Rubiaceae Gentiana Kurroo Gentianaceae Kuru Geranium nepalense Goraniaceae Geranium ocellatum Goraniaceae Geranium robertianum Goraniaceae Chowhri Geranium wallichianum Coraniaceae Cerbera Lnuginosa Compositae Kupia Girardinia Heterophylla Utricacoae Bichhubutti Habenaris Donse Orchidaceae Kharwar Habenaris Goloondra Orchidaceae Sirab Halania eliptica Gentianaceae Pitpapra Hydrocotyle aristica Umbelliferae Brahmi Impatiens bicolor Geraniacea Balsam Impatiens glandulifera Geraniacea Balsam Iris germanica Iridaceae Brechra, Kharera Justicia Japonica Acatchacea Lathyrus pratensis Leguminosae Lilium gigantoum Liliaceae Malva rotundifolia Nalvaceae Dodu Mentha longifolia Labiatea Podin Nardostachys Jatamanai Valerianeae Jatamansi Nepta Ciliaris Labiatae Brun Nepeta elliptica Labiatae Papaver dublum Papaveracear Poppy Piororbi za kurrooa Scrophularinaear Karu Pilea obesa Utricaceae Chamrali Pimpinella acuminata Umbelliferae Pimpinella diversifella Umbelliferae Podophyllum hexandrum Beberidaceae Ba nkakri Papri Polygonatum cirrhifolium Liliaceae Polygonatum verticillatum Liliaceae Salang Mishri Polygonatum nepalense Polygonaceae Nalora Polygonum capitatum Polygonaceae Nalora Potentilla astrosangtunea Rosaceae Potentilla fulgens Rosaceae Dora
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. xv Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Prenanthes Brunoniana Compositae Dudhli Primula Donticulata Primulacea Kauri Ranunculus arvensis Ranunulaceae Butter Cup Ranunculus arvensis Ranunulaceae Butter Cup Rumex hastatus Polygonaceae Malori Rumes nepalensis Polygonaceae Malora Salvia nubicola Labiatas Guadra Salvia Mukerjeea Labiatas Saussurca spp. Compositae Saxifragiana spp. Sexifrageceae Scutellaria linearis Labiatae Sida rhombiflia Malvaceae Sisymbrium thalianum Cruciferae Jangli sarsin Sisymbrium iric Cruciferae Jangli sarsin Strobilanthes atripurpurens Acanthaceae Mashna Strobilanthes angustifrons Acanthaceae Strobilanthes Glutinosns Acanthaceae Strobilanthes Dalhoosianus Swetia chirayits Gentianaceae Charaita Swetia Cordata Gentianaceae Charaita Swerta Paniculata Gentianaceae Charaita Thalictrum foliolosum Renunculaceae Thymus linearis Labiatae Ban Ajwayan Tragopogon gracila Compositae Tripolium protense Loguminosae Urtica Dioca Urticaceae Kugas Ur tlca Malrel Uetucaceae Kugas Veleriana Hardwichii Valerineae Nohani, Nakh Veleriana Jatemansii Veleriaeae Mushkbala Verbascum thapsus Scrophularineae Gaddi Tamaku Mullain Veronica Serphyllifolia Scrophularineae Vicia gidula Vicia Tetrasoerma Viola canescens Violaceae Banafsha Viola Serpens Violaceae Banafsha TREES AND BAMBOOS Andropogan halepensis Gramineae Phulna Aristida depresea Gramineae Lambaru Arundineria falcata Gramineae Nirgal Arundineria spathiflora Gramineae Gari, Ringal Arundinella brasiliensis Gramineae - Avena Aspera Gramineae - Bambusa arundinaceae Gramineae Maggar Bambusa nutans Gramineae Daraog
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. xvi Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Bothrochola intermedla Gramineae Palwan Chrysopogon martinii Gramineae Dhawi Cynodon Datylon Gramineae Dub Cyperus niveus Gramineae Dendrocalamus strictus Gramineae Bans Dendrocalamus hamiltonii Gramineae Mohr Bans Eriphorumfulms Gramineae Kohi Eriphorum comosum Gramineae Ghor bager Hetropogon monranus Gramineae Sariala syu Tanli Ischaemum angustufloium Gramineae Baggar Panicum platootum Gramineae Panicum platactum Gramineae Phicum asporum Gramineae Panicum floccudum Gramineae Phaannua Gramineae Setaria Glanca Gramineae Siun Setaria virdis Gramineae CLIMBER Bauhinia vahlii Laguminosea Taur Cacaalpinia bonducalla Laguminoseae Kanderi Caesalpnina Sapiaria Laguminoseae Kanderi Clematis Conneta Ranunculacea Clematis Grata Ranunculacea Clematis Gouriana Ranunculacea Bel Kangu chabru Clematis Montana Ranunculacea Cryptolepis buchanani Asclepiadaceae Khurnmble Cunsutsreflexa Convolvulaceae Akash bel Dloscorla belophylla Dioscoreaceae Discoria Belophylla Dioscoreaceae Tardi Dioscoria Deltoidea Dioscoreaceae Hedeva Helix Araliaceae Grumru Ichoarpus frutescens Apocynaaceae Jasminum officinal Oleaceae Banmalti Jasminum humile Oleaceae Banmalti Jasminum pubescens Oleaceae Dure Millettia ouriculata Leguminosea Salanghe Rosa Macrophylla Rosaceae kujas Rosa moschata Rosaceae Kujas Rubia Cordilfolia Rubiaceae Smilax asndra Liliaceae Vitis semicordata Liliaceae Mizae Vitis trifolia Liliaceae Pola Zehneria umbellata Cucurbitacea
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. xvii Draft EIA/EMP report of Stone/Sand/Bajri Mine, (With ML Area of 5.1288 Ha) Kh. No. 1212/1 and 1215/1, Balh, Patwar Circle Balh, Joginder Nagar, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh Annexure VIII: Certificate of DFO
EQMS INDIA PVT. LTD. xviii