Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES 2

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

CONTENTS

CHAPTER NO. TITLE PAGE NO. CHAPTER-0 FRONT PAGE 1-3 CHAPTER - 1 GENERAL 4 CHAPTER - 2 LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY 5 CHAPTER - 3 DETAIL OF APPLIED AREA MINING PLAN 6

PART – A CHAPTER - 1 GEOLOGY & EXPLORATION 7-8 CHAPTER - 2 MINING (OPEN CAST MINING) 9-13 CHAPTER - 3 MINE DRAINAGE 13 CHAPTER – 4 STACKING OF MINERAL REJECTS AND DISPOSAL OF 13 WASTE CHAPTER - 5 USE OF MINERAL & MINERAL REJECTS 13 CHAPTER – 6 PROCESSING OF ROM & MINERAL REJECTS 13 CHAPTER - 7 OTHERS 13-14 CHAPTER – 8 PROGRESSIVE MINE CLOSURE PLAN & ENVIROMENT 14-22 MANGEMENT PLAN PART- B CHAPTER - 9 CERTIFICATES 23-24

Abbreviation: - 1.WBMMCR-2016 - West Bengal Minor Mineral Concession Rule -2016 2. M.L. Area - Mining Lease Area 3. R.L. - Reduce Level 4. NGT - National Green Tribunal

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

LIST OF PLATES

PLATE NO DISCRIPTION SCALE 1 Google Map 1:5000 2 M.L.Area Plan 1:3960 3 Surface Topographic & Geological Plan 1:3000 4 Year wise Development Plan & Section 1:3000 5 Conceptual Plan & Environmental Plan & Section 1:3000

LIST OF ANNEXURES

ANNEXURES DESCRIPTION

1 RQP CERTIFICATE.

2 LOi

3 I.D proof of Proponent

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

CHAPTER – 1 GENERAL

INTRODUCTIN :- Mr.Sudipta Bose is in the business of sand Mining since long. The applicant has been allotted total Sand Mining lease of 14.95 Acres, 6.05 hectare in Village – Paschim Dangapara, J.L. No - 10, Block & P.S – Chopra, Dist-. Uttar Dinajpur in Mahananda River bed sand through Auction bidding process after completing the statutory clearances from competent authority by Uttar Dinajpur district authority .LOI Ref Memo No.-LM/VI/II/2041/2016 Dated – 15-11-2016

This Mine plan deals with 14.95 acres/6.08 ha only.

a) Name and Address APPLICANT- Sudipta Bose VILL. - Haptiagachh. P.O & P.S – Chopra DIST. – Uttar Dinajpur STATE- West Bengal b) Mineral(s) which is the applicant/lessee intends to mine :-Mahananda River bed Sand

c) Name of RQP Preparing The Mine Plan

Name A.K.SINHA, B.Tech(Hons), FCC(Coal) Address MINING CONSULTANT, B- 31 Vashundhara Garden , Harihar Singh Road, Bariatu, Ranchi, Jharkhand PIN 834009 Registration No. REG. NO. RQP/COM(N)-UDP/306/2006/A& Reg No. 34012/(1)2011-CPAM, GOI FOR (Coal & Lignite)

Validity 26th February,2018 Name of Prospecting Agency Not Applicable

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

CHAPTER – 2 LOCATION & ACCESSIBILITY

Detail of Mining Area & Location & accessibility:-

S.No. Item Details 1. Project location Village - Paschim Dangapara Block - Chopra, P.S - Chopra, District - Uttar Dinajpur, State – West Bengal.

2. Proposed Mining Lease 14.95 acres ,6.05 Hectare Area 3. Land Owner ship Govt. Land 4. Plot Details 36(P) 5. Lease period 5 years 6. River Mahananda River 7. Project falls Between : 26°29'44.68"N, 88°18'39.18"E 26°29'42.08"N, 88°18'41.18"E 26°29'31.17"N, 88°18'27.58"E 26°29'29.60"N, 88°18'30.28"E 26°29'26.30"N, 88°18'27.56"E 26°29'26.01"N, 88°18'29.83"E 8. Topography Undeveloped flat with gentle slope. 9. Toposheet No. 78B/2, 78B/3, 78B/6 & 73B/7 (Restricted) 10. Minerals of Mine River Sand & gravel 11. Proposed production of 90874.50 Cum/ Annum. mine 12. Method of Mining Manual Sand Mining Nov. to May 13. Estimated cost Not Available 14. Water demand 5.8 KL/D. 15. Sources of water Drinking water supply will be met by nearby Village well & Tube well. 16. Permissible depth 3 M 17. Man Power 129 Worker per day Local workers from nearby villages will be deployed 18. Solid waste No generation of solid waste. 19. Nearest Railway station Dhumdangi Railway Station – 2.5 km(SW) 20. Nearest SH & NH NH-31 – 7 km (W) 21. Nearest Airport Bagdogra Airport - 20 km (N) 22. Nearest Town / City Raiganj city is at a distance of 100 km (South).

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

CHAPTER – 3

DETAIL OF PROPOSED MINE PLAN

Mr.Sudipta Bose is in the business of sand Mining since long. The applicant has been allotted total Sand Mining lease of 14.95 Acres, 6.05 hectare in Village – Paschim Dangapara, J.L. No - 10, Block & P.S – Chopra, Dist-. Uttar Dinajpur in Mahananda River bed sand through Auction bidding process after completing the statutory clearances from competent authority by Uttar Dinajpur district authority .LOI Ref Memo No.-LM/VI/II/2041/2016 Dated – 15-11-2016

This Mine plan deals with 14.95 acres/6.05 ha only.

As such in the past there was no rule or regulation that River bed Sand Mining will have also to seek Environmental Clearance prior to start the River bed Sand excavation. (Ref – front page) based on that Proponent approaches to SEAC for E.C.as per recent directive of West Bengal Govt to obtain Environmental, Clearance as per West Bengal Minor Mineral Concession Rule -2016 effective from 29th July 2016.

The Mine plan has been Prepared considering the “Template for Mine Plan For Minor Mineral” issued from Principal Secretary, Govt. of West Bengal & also I.B.M. Manual on “Appraisal of Mine Plan -2014”.

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

PART - A CHAPTER – 1 GEOLOGY & EXPLORATION GENERAL INFORMATION: Uttar Dinajpur or North Dinajpur is a district of the Indian state of West Bengal. Created on 1 April 1992 by the division of the erstwhile West Dinajpur district, it comprises two subdivisions: Raiganj and Islampur. The district lies between 25 degrees 11'N to 26 degrees 49' N and longitude 87 degree 49' E to 90 degree 00'E. Uttar Dinajpur is surrounded by other districts of West Bengal like Darjeeling district and Jalpaiguri district to the north, Dakshin Dinajpur to the south, Bangladesh to the east and Bihar to the west. The district is made of two sub-divisions known as Islampur and Raiganj. There are several sanctuaries that are maintained by the state government. The main one being the Raiganj bird sanctuary is famous as it is one of the largest in Asia. Area: 3,142 km² Administrative division: Jalpaiguri division Lok sabha constituency: Raiganj Major highways: National Highway 31, National Highway 34

The district is famous for its rich alluvial soil and the thick forest. There are various industries set up here. Around 9 large scale and medium scale industries are flourishing. The district is rich in agriculture produce as well. Dahuk, Kulik river flows through the Chopra block. Mahananda River flows through the Chopra block. Mahananda River comes from Bangladesh and again goes to Bangladesh through Kumarganj and Balurghat blocks. The river flows from North to South. CLIMATE It is Hot in summer. Uttar Dinajpur summer highest day temperature is in between 30°C to 44°C in the month of April/May and lowest in January between10-50C. Average temperatures of January is 19°C , February is 23°C , March is 28°C , April is 31°C and May is 30°C .The average annual precipitation is 1620 mm (66.1 in) with lowest rainfall 1121 mm in the year2006 and highest 1758 mm in the year 2005. The highest rainfall occurs in July.

(l) Mineral Reserves/ Resources:-

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

Total Geological reserve 540000 cum & mineable/permissible reserves 90874.50 cum has been estimated. These mineable/permissible reserves are replenished every year after monsoon has been envisaged. As such the life of the mine will continue based on the replenishment of sand every year hence it is a continuous process, therefore, envisaged that life of mine will be for 5 years and subsequent lease renewals.

The estimation of the reserves has been drawn on the basis of actual measurement of length & breath (area of the sand bed) of river bed falling within the lease hold area & multiplied by thickness of sand bed .up 3 m for total reserve (Geological Reserve) & after considering the safety zone of 7.5 m & replenishment of sand the depth has been worked out 1.87 m.

PASCHIM DANGAPARA, BLOCK ID - MMR/UD/SB-3; 18.0 Hect. (44.48 Acre) Total - 180000 Sq. Meter, Permissible - 60583 Sq.meter (14.95 Acres) ASSUMED GEOLOGYCAL & MINEABLE RESERVED Annexure-1

Permissible area in Permissible After Production Total sqm. After Depth Geo. resv. of considering in Cft.per Working considering as per Permissible Reserve Sand for PART NO 7.5 m R.L m. year (1 cum areain center 1/3 statute depth in m in Cu.m. Prodn. . in Safety =35.3146 Sqm. rd or in mts. 100% cum. Per zone. cft.) 100m. year From bank

Paschim 87 to 180000 60583 48466.4 3 1.87 540000 90874.50 3209196.62 dangaPara 85.13

TOTAL 540000 90874.50 3209196.62

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

CHAPTER – 2 MINING A. - OPEN CAST MINING a) Briefly describe the existing as well as proposed method for excavation with all design parameters :-

The mining activities will be carried out in the dry area of Mahananda river bed without disturbing the flow of water course. i. Strategy of Mining Operation:-

Mining activities will be manually Depth of working restricted to 3 m or water level whichever is less. Following considerations should be kept in mind for sand / stone mining: ii. Method of Mining propose – . DRY-PIT CHANNEL MINING- The sand will be lifted through hand held shovel manually & will be loaded on 10 ton tippers or tractor tailor& will be stacked at the stock pile away from the river bed. The lifting of sand will be between Septembers to May every year. The operation will be done during day time only i.e. 7 AM to 5 P.M. Ref Plate 6. As supporting equipment to be used for reloading at stock yard, face cleaning and haul road maintaining to be done regularly. Water sprinklers will be used for dust suppression purpose on mine hauls roads up to stock pile. Besides resource extraction, ultimate objectives of riverbed mining should be:-

(i) Protection and restoration of the ecological system, (ii) To prevent damages to the river regime, (iii) To work out the sediment influx/ replenishment capacity of the river, (iv) To restore the river line configuration (landforms and fluvial geomorphology such as bank erosion, change of river course gradient, flow regime, etc.), (v) To prevent contamination of ground water regime, (vi) To prevent depletion of ground water reserves due to excessive draining out of groundwater and (vii) To restore the riparian rights and instream habitats

Rule – 3 of WBMMCR 2016 - Prohibition on Mining under Specified Conditions:-

(l) (a) No person shall undertake mining operation in any area prohibited by the State Government in the public interest by notification in the Official Gazette.

Provided that nothing in the sub-rule shall affect any mining operation undertaken in any area in accordance with the terms and conditions of a mining lease or mineral concession already granted.

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

(b) No person shall transport or store or cause to be transported or stored any mineral otherwise than in accordance with the provisions of these rules and the West Bengal Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage) Rules, 2002.

(2) No minor mineral coming out in course of digging of wells or excavation of tanks shall be disposed of by the person digging or excavating without informing the District Authority as well as the Executive Officer of the Panchayat Samiti or the Executive Officer of the Municipality concerned, as the case may be, about such occurrence.

Provided that disposal of such minor mineral may be allowed on pre-payment of price of such minor mineral at the prevailing market rate as determined on the basis of the rate published by the Public works department/ concerned Department of the State Government for the concerned area from time to time.

(3) No mining of river bed occurrence shall be allowed within 300 meters, upstream and downstream, measured from the center line of any bridge, regulator or similar hydraulic structure and from the end point of bank protection works.

(4) No river bed mining shall be allowed beneath 3 meters of the river bed or ground water level, whichever is less. (5) No mining operation in case of river bed occurrence shall be done within a distance of three (03) kms. of a barrage axis or dam on a river unless otherwise permitted by the concerned Executive Engineer or Revenue Officer or authorized officer and such distance shall be reckoned across an imaginary line parallel to the barrage, or dam axis, as the case may be.

(6) No extraction of river bed occurrence shall be allowed beyond the central one third of the river bed, or keeping a distance of 100 meter from the existing bank line whichever is less, unless otherwise permitted by the concerned Executive Engineer or Revenue Officer.

A No extraction of minerals other than river bed occurrence shall be allowed within fifty (50) meters from any road, public structure, embankment, railway line, bridge canal, road and other public works or buildings.

(8) No mining lease shall be granted without proof of existence of mineral contents in the area for which the application for a mining lease has been made in accordance with such parameters as may be prescribed by the Government from time to time.

In addition to sated above following geo-scientific considerations are proposed to be taken into account for sand mining:

1. Abandoned stream channels on terrace and inactive floodplains may be preferred rather than active channels and their deltas and floodplains. Replenishment of ground water has to be ensured if excessive pumping out of water is required during mining. 10

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

2. Stream should not be diverted to form inactive channel,

3. Mining below subterranean water level should be avoided as a safeguard against environmental contamination and over exploitation of resources,

4. Large rivers and streams whose periodic sediment replenishment capacity are larger, may be preferred than smaller rivers,

5. Segments of braided river system should be used preferably falling within the lateral migration area of the river regime that enhances the feasibility of sediment replenishment,

6 Mining at the concave side of the river channel should be avoided to prevent bank erosion. Similarly meandering segment of a river should be selected for mining in such a way as to avoid natural eroding banks and to promote mining on naturally building (aggrading) meander components.

1. Scraping of sediment bars above the water flow level in the lean period maybe preferred for sustainable mining,

2. It is to be noted that the environmental issues related to mining of mineral including riverbed sand mining should clearly state the size of mine lease hold area, mine lease period, mine plan and mine closure plan, along with mine reclamation and rehabilitation strategies, depth of mining and period of mining operations, particularly in case of river bed mining.

9. The Piedmont Zone (Bhabbar area) particularly in the Himalayan foothills, where riverbed material is mined. This sandy- gravelly track constitutes excellent conduits and holds the greater potential for ground water recharge. Mining in such areas should be preferred in locations selected away from the channel bank stretches. Areas where channel banks are not well defined, particularly in the braided river system, midstream areas should be selected for mining of riverbed materials for minimizing adverse effects on flow regime and instream habitat..

10. Mining of gravelly sand from the riverbed should be restricted to a maximum depth of 3m from the surface. For surface mining operations beyond this depth of 3m (10 feet), it is imperative to adopt quarrying in a systematic bench- like disposition, which is generally not feasible in riverbed mining. Hence, for safety and sustainability restriction of mining of riverbed material to maximum depth of 3m.is recommended,

11. Mining of riverbed material should also take cognizance of the location of the active channel bank. It should be located sufficiently away, preferably more than 3m away (inwards), from such river banks to minimize effects on river bank erosion and avoid consequent channel migration,

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

12. Continued riverbed material mining in a given segment of the river will induce seasonal scouring and intensify the erosion activity within the channel. This will have an adverse effect not only within the mining area but also both in upstream and downstream of the river course. Hazardous effects of such scouring and enhanced erosion due to riverbed mining should be evaluated periodically and avoided for sustainable mining activities.

13. Mineral processing in case of riverbed mining of the sandy gravelly material may consist of simple washing to remove clay and salty area. It may involve crushing, grinding and separation of valueless rock fragments from the desirable material. The volume of such waste material may range from 10 to90%. Therefore, such huge quantities of mine wastes should be dumped into artificially created/ mined - out pits. Where such tailings / waste materials are very fine grained, they may act as a source of dust when dry. Therefore, such disposal of wastes should be properly stabilized and vegetated to prevent their erosion by winds,

14. Identification of river stretches and their demarcation for mining must be completed prior to mining for sustainable development

15 The mined out pits should be backfilled where warranted and area should be suitably landscaped to prevent environmental degradation.

16 Mining generally has a huge impact on the irrigation and drinking water resources. These attributes should be clearly evaluated for short-term as well las long-term remediation.

b) Indicate Year-wise tentative Excavation in cum ( Sand Density at 1.70 ton/cum, Approx.) :-

In situ Tentative Excavation in 5 years period:-

PROPOSED FIVE YEARS PROD. PRODUCTION YEARS CUM TONS/DAY CUM/DAY 1st 90874.50 772.43 454.37 2nd 72699.6 617.94 363.5 3rd 72699.6 617.94 363.5 4th 72699.6 617.94 363.5 5th 72699.6 617.94 363.5

Reclamation of the sand will be followed every year during monsoon. The reclaimed sand will be lifted every year after monsoon. The sand production may vary based on reclaimed quantity of sand in the M.L. area.

iii. POPOSED PRODUCTION &MANPOWER :-

PROPOSED MAN POWER Activity wise Mazdoor No. 12

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

Sand Loading Mazdoor 74 Sand Scraping Mazdoor 37 Tipper Operator 7 Tipper Helper 7 Munshi / Clerk 2 Total 129

CHAPTER – 3 MINE DRAINAGE No drainage system is meeting the Mahananda River except the rain water of the nearby village. Hence no precaution is required to be protected CHAPTER - 4

STACKING OF MINERAL REJECTS/SUB GRADE AND DISPOSAL OF WASTE There is no generation of waste. Hence this activity is not required except the stock yard having capacity to accommodate 400 cum of san

CHAPTER – 5

USE OF MINERAL & MINERAL REJECTS

a) Describe briefly the requirement of end-use industry. :-_ Sand is required for construction work of building, apartment, bridges & roads etc. CHAPTER – 6

PROCESSING OF ROM AND MINE REJECTS

River Sand does not require any processing of ROM except sieving/ screening of sand before its end use. This work is being carried out at the working sight by the custom

CHAPTER – 7 OTHER

a) Site Services.- The Lessee has been proposed to establish the following facilities at the mining site as per statute. · Site office, · Workshop, 13

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

· Drinking water · First aid Room with 1st aid facilities. · Transport vehicle for staff & workers · Canteen.

CHAPTER – 8

PROGRESSIVE MINE CLOSURE PLAN & ENVERONMENTAL MANEGEMENT PLAN

Since River Bed sand is replenished every year therefore, Progressive Mine closure is not required.

Impact Assessment:-

To assess the impact of mining and effect of remedial measures can be assessed through monitoring. This is also required for mid-course corrections. Monitoring will provide data to evaluate the upstream and downstream effects of sand and gravel extraction activities, and long-term changes. A brief report summarizing the annual results of the physical and biological monitoring should document the evolution of the sites over time, and the cumulative effects of sand and gravel extraction. The summary should also recommend any modification of extraction rates needed to minimize impacts of extraction.

Sand Replenishment, Geomorphology and Hydrology:

Physical monitoring requirements of sand and gravel extraction activities should include surveyed channel cross-sections, longitudinal profiles, bed material measurements, geomorphic maps, and discharge and sediment transport measurements. The physical data will illustrate bar replenishment and any changes in channel morphology, bank erosion, or particle size. In addition to local monitoring for replenishment at specific mining sites, monitoring of the entire reach through the estuary will provide information on the cumulative response of the system to sand and gravel extraction. For example, it is important for downstream bars and the estuary to receive sufficient sand and gravel to maintain estuarine structure and function. Because the elevation of the bed of the channel is variable from year to year, a reach-based approach to monitoring will provide a larger context for site-specific changes. If long-term monitoring data show that there is a reach-scale trend of bed lowering (on bars), the extraction could be limited.

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

Cross-sections:

Surveyed channel cross-sections should be located at permanently documented sites upstream, downstream and within the extraction area. Cross-sections intended to show reach- scale changes should be consistently located over geomorphic features such as at the head of riffles, across the deepest part of pools, or across particular types of channel bars. Cross-section spacing should be close enough to define the morphology of the river channel. Cross section data should be surveyed in March or April to evaluate changes that may occur during the flooding season. Cross-section data should be collected over the reach to the estuary, and locally upstream, downstream, and within each mining site. This long-term monitoring data should be collected and analyzed even if no mining occurs in order to understand and estimate the sand budget of the river reach.

Photo-documentation:

Photographs of the project sites should be taken prior to excavation to document the baseline conditions, and again during each monitoring session. Photos should be taken twice a year. Photos of structures nearby like outfalls / off-takes, intakes, bridges and other structures may also be regularly taken.

Groundwater Level:

Monitoring wells should be established adjacent to each off-channel floodplain excavation to record changes in ground water levels. Measurements should be taken monthly. This should help analyse surface water and ground water interaction along the reach.

Extent and Quality of Riparian Vegetation:

Document the extent and quality of riparian vegetation, including successional status, and any increase in disturbance indicators (non-native plants). The extent of riparian habitat can be determined utilising aerial photos. Habitat quality data, i.e., successional status and species composition, must be determined through field reconnaissance.

Riparian Vegetation Maps:

Develop yearly maps of the sensitive habitat areas and document their aerial extent over time. These maps may be combined with the geomorphic maps. Monitor sites identified as sensitive for disturbance in excess of expected geomorphic trends - i.e., massive bank wasting up or downstream from an active mine site. Monitor sand and gravel mining impacts which

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

may translate up and downstream, causing accelerated erosion of sensitive zones and impacting the ability of new habitat to form due to excessive scour or sedimentation.

Paschim Dangapara Sand mining project area focuses mainly on the basic environmental components which may get affected due to the mining activities. The environmental components considered are · Air Environment · Noise Environment · Water Environment · Land Environment · Socio-economic Environment · Flora & Fauna Air Environment The status of ambient air quality will get affected due to the ongoing mining operations at Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine site. Vehicular movement of some of the locations in this surrounding region is also responsible for the existing ambient air quality seasons.

The following precautions have to be considered for abatement of air pollution in the Paschim Dangapara Sand mine area. Water sprinkling system has to be provided specially on the transporting roads outside M.L area up to stock pile of the sand. Noise Environment

The impact of noise generated by Sand mining activities on the general population in the surrounding villages will be well within the permissible limits. However, there are no villages near to the mining site. The total noise effect on nearby villages during operation is negligible.

Flora and Fauna

It proposed to take the following mitigation measures to maintain the aquatic condition of the surroundings.

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

The area is covered predominantly covered with scrub jungles and bushes sal forest in this region fall under major group. Sal in this region are Pterocarpus, marsupium,Madhuca latifilia, Schleichera oliosa, Terminalia arjuna, Terminalia belerica, Bombax ceiba etc Plantation mostly includes Eucatyptus, Akashmoni, Bamboo and kaju etc. Significant faunas in the area is Cat ,baboon, python, wild boot, elephants, ducks, storks, snips etc domestic animals like cows, Goats, Buffalos are found.

In stream mining can have other costly effects beyond the immediate mine sites. Many hectares of fertile streamside land are lost annually, as well as valuable timber resources and wildlife habitats in the riparian areas. Degraded stream habitats result in loss of fisheries productivity, biodiversity, and recreational potential. Severely degraded channels may lower land and aesthetic values.

All species require specific habitat conditions to ensure long-term survival. Native species in streams are uniquely adapted to the habitat conditions that existed before humans began large-scale alterations. These have caused major habitat disruptions that favored some species over others and caused overall declines in biological diversity and productivity. In most streams and rivers, habitat quality is strongly linked to the stability of channel bed and banks. Unstable stream channels are inhospitable to most aquatic species.

Factors that increase or decrease sediment supply often destabilizes bed and banks and result in dramatic channel readjustments,For example, human activities that accelerate stream bank erosion, such as riparian forest clearing or in stream mining, because stream banks to become net sources of sediment that often have severe consequences for aquatic species. Anthropogenic activities that artificially lower stream bed elevation cause bed instabilities that result in a net release of sediment in the local vicinity. Unstable sediments simplify and, therefore, degrade stream habitats for many aquatic species. Few species benefit from these effects.

The most important effects of in stream sand mining on aquatic habitats are bed degradation and sedimentation, which can have substantial negative effects on aquatic life. The stability of sand-bed and gravel-bed streams depends on a delicate balance between stream flow, sediment supplied from the watershed, and channel form. Mining-induced changes in sediment supply and channel form disrupt channel and habitat development processes. Furthermore, movement of unstable substrates results in downstream sedimentation of

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

habitats. The affected distance depends on the intensity of mining, particles sizes, stream flows, and channel morphology.

The complete removal of vegetation and destruction of the soil profile destroys habitat above and below the ground as well as within the aquatic ecosystem, resulting in the reduction in faunal populations.

Channel widening causes swallowing of the streambed, producing braided flow or subsurface inter gravel flow in riffle areas, hindering movement of fishes between pools. Channel reaches become more uniformly shallow as deep pools fill with gravel and other sediments, reducing habitat complexity, riffle-pool structure, and numbers of large predatory fishes.

Socio-economic

Socio-economic profile of the area revealed that the Sand mining activity and associated sector is the major source of employment for the villagers of nearby area of Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine. All villages are well connected by approach roads. There will be significant improvement in the standard of living of the surrounding area due to financial support. However the response for the people towards the mining project is positive with expectations of mine job opportunities and economic development of the area. - Water Environment. - Reclamation of Mined Area. - Biological reclamation. - Vibration levels. - Acid mine drainage. - Surface Subsidence. - Historical monuments. - Land environment. - Biological Environment.

In case of Sand Mining operation above all is not applicable.

Geo scientific considerations are proposed to be taken into account for sand mining:

1. Abandoned stream channels on terrace and inactive flood plains may be preferred rather than active channels and their deltas and flood plains. Replenishment of ground water has to be ensured if excessive pumping out of water is required during mining.

2. Stream should not be diverted to form inactive channel, 18

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

3. Mining below subterranean water level should be avoided as a safe guard against environmental contamination and over exploitation of resources,

4. Large rivers and streams whose periodic sediment replenishment capacity are larger, may be preferred than smaller rivers,

5. Segments of braided river system should be used preferably falling within the lateral migration area of the river regime that enhances the feasibility of sediment replenishment,

1. Mining at the concave side of the river channel should be avoided to prevent bank erosion. Similarly meandering segment of a river should be selected for mining in such a way as to avoid natural eroding banks and to promote mining on naturally building (aggrading) meander components.

2. Scraping of sediment bars above the water flow level in the lean period maybe preferred for sustainable mining,

3. It is to be noted that the environmental issues related to mining of mineral including riverbed sand mining should clearly state the size of mine lease hold area, mine lease period, mine plan and mine closure plan, along with mine reclamation and rehabilitation strategies, depth of mining and period of mining operations, particularly in case of river bed mining.

14. Mining of gravelly sand from the river bed should be restricted to a maximum depth of 3 m from the surface. For surface mining operations beyond this depth of 3 m (10 feet), it is imperative to adopt quarrying in a systematic bench- like disposition, which is generally not feasible in river bed mining. Hence, for safety and sustainability restriction of mining of riverbed material to maximum depth of 3 m. is recommended,

15. Mining of river bed material should also take cognizance of the location of the active channel bank. It should be located sufficiently away, preferably more than 3m away (inwards), from such river banks to minimize effects on riverbank erosion and avoid consequent channel migration,

16. Continued riverbed material mining in a given segment of the river will induce seasonal scouring and intensify the erosion activity within the channel. This will have an adverse effect not only within the mining area but also both in upstream and downstream of the river course. Hazardous effects of such scouring and enhanced erosion due to river bed mining should be evaluated periodically and avoided for sustainable mining activities.

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

17. Mineral processing in case of river bed mining of the sandy gravelly material may consist of simple washing to remove clay and silty area. It may involve crushing, grinding and separation of valueless rock fragments from the desirable material. The volume of such waste material may range from 10 to 90%. Therefore, such huge quantities of mine wastes should be dumped into artificially created/ mined - out pits. Where such tailings / waste materials are very fine grained, they may act as a source of dust when dry. Therefore, such disposal of wastes should be properly stabilized and vegetated to prevent the erosion by winds,

14. Identification of river stretches and their demarcation for mining must be completed prior to mining for sustainable development

15 The mined out pits should be backfilled where warranted and area should be suitably landscaped to prevent environmental degradation.

16. Mining generally has a huge impact on the irrigation and drinking water resources. These attributes should be clearly evaluated for short-term as well as long-term remediation.

Mined-out Land: - Describe the proposal to be implemented for reclamation and rehabilitation of mined out land:- Not applicable, because river sand is replenished/reclaimed every year during rainy season.

- Topsoil Management. - Tailing dam Management. - Acid mine drainage. Above mentioned is Not Applicable in case of Sand Mining.

SUMMARY OF YEARWISE PROPOSAL FOR ABOVE

1st YEAR to 5th Year

Items Details Propos Actual Remarks ed Dump Area afforested (ha) . Nil nil - Management No. of sapling planted Nil nil Cumulative no of plant Nil nil Cost including care of plant Nil nli Managt. of Area available for rehabilitation (ha). Nil nil worked out benches Afforestation done (ha) Nil nil No. of sampling planted in the year Nil nil Cumulative no of plants Nil nil

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

Any other method of rehabilitation Nil nil (specify) Cost including watch & care Nil nil Reclamation & Void available for backfilling Nil nil Rehabilitation by Void filled by waste Nil nil back filling Afforestation on back filling area Nil nil Rehabilitation by making water Nil nil reservoir Any other means (specify) Nil nil Rehabilitation of Area available (ha) Nil - waste land within Area rehabilitated Nil - lease. Method of rehabilitation replenished/reclaimed Others (Specify) Not Applicable -

Disaster Management & Risk Assessment Not Applicable in sand mining.

Care & maintenance during temporary discontinuance No emergency plan due to court order or unforeseen circumstances for temporary discontinuance is need. Except necessary precautions to be taken during pre – monsoon period between June to September to withdraw all the equipment’s & manpower from mining site.

Measures to Prevent Accidents due to Trucks and Dumpers 1) All transportation within the main working should be carried out directly under the supervision and control of the management. 2) The Vehicles must be maintained in good repair sand checked thoroughly at least once a week by the competent person authorized for the purpose the Management. 3) Road signs should be provided at each and every turning point specially for the guidance of the drivers at the night. 4) To avoid danger while reversing the track be made man free. 5) A statutory provision of the fences, constant education, training etc. will go long way in reducing the incidents of such accidents. 6) Haul trucks should be oriented essentially perpendicular to the berm, while unloading.

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

Check List for Likely Danger in Sand Mining Sr. Activities Human Risk Ecological Risk No. Severe Non – Land Air Water severe 1 Extraction of Sand ü ü ü 2. Transportation of Ore on Haul ü ü ü Road

Plantation

The applicant has been suggested for afforestation in both side of along the KACHCHA sand transport route beyond the bank of the river at a distance of 5 m apart during the plan period & maintain the plant for at least 3 years. The proponent also looks the possibility of afforestation in the public buildings such as village school, college, Hospital & Panchayat Building.

Financial Assurance:

Sub Rule -1 of Rule -18 of WBMMCR 2016 - States “For the purpose of mining operation in any area, financial assurance shall be furnished by every lease holder. The amount of financial assurance shall be rupees 15 thousand per hector of the mining lease area put to use for mining and allied activities or rupees fifty (50) thousand, whichever is higher” in the form of A) Letter of credit from any Scheduled Bank. B) Performance of surety bound, C) Trust fund build up through annual contributions from the revenue generated by mine and based on expected amount sum required for abandonment of mine or. D) Any other form of security or any other guarantees acceptable to the authority.

Based on above the Applicant has to deposit a bank guarantee of 6.05 X15000 = Rs 90750 which is More than Rs 50000.00 as per statute the Proponent has to deposit a bank guarantee of Rs 90750 to the concern District authority before execution of Lease.

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

CHAPTER-9 PART –B CERTIFICATE Date: ………………

CONSENT LETTER/UNDERTAKING/CERTIFICATE

The Mining Plan in respect of Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine in Mahananda River over an area of 14.95 acres/6.05 Hectare, in Village – Paschim Dangapara, Block & P.S –Chopra Dist-. Uttar Dinajpur in Mahananda River under Rule under supreme court order slp (c) no.12498- 12499, dated 27-02 2012, & National Green Tribunal (NGT) order 13 Jan. 2016 & Rule -3 of W.B.M.M.C.R- 2016 A.K.SINHA, REG. NO RQP/COM (N)-UDP/306/2006/A & Reg No. 34012/ (1)2011-CPAM, GOI FOR (Coal & Lignite) Date of Grant 27.02.2006 Valid up to 26th February’2018 This is to request the Uttar Dinajpur District Authority Govt. of west Bengal to make any further correspondence regarding any correction of the Mining Plan with said recognized person at his address below:-

MINING CONSULTANT, B- 31, Vashundhara Garden, Harihar Singh Road, Bariatu, Ranchi, (Jharkhand). 1) We hereby undertake that all modifications/updating as made in the said Mining plan by the said recognized person be deemed to have been made with our knowledge and consent and shall be acceptable on us and binding in all respect. 2) I hereby solemnly affirm that the plans and programs in this mine plan will be scrupulously implemented by me and will be strictly held responsible for any deviation thereof. 3) I also hereby certify that the provision of Mines and Mineral (Development & Regulation) Act 1957 & Mines Act 1952 Rules & Regulation made under these Act, along with the provisions of West Bengal Minor Mineral Concession Rule 2016 will be strictly adhered to while implementing this mine plan and wherever specific permissions will be required, I will approach the concerned authorities of Director General of Mines Safety & state Government as the case may be.Further, standards prescribed by D.G.M.S. in respect of miners health will be strictly implemented”.

Place ------

Date ------Applicant Signature ------

Paschim Dangapara Sand Mine

AREA- 6.05 HECT/14.95 ACRES

CERTIFICATE FROM R.Q.P

CERTIFIED that the Mineral Conservation and Development Rules (MCDR) of 1988 and Mineral Concession Rule (MCR) of 2016 in respect of Mining Plan of Paschim Dangapara Sand mine over an area of 14.95 Acres (6.05 ha) in village- Paschim Dangapara, Block & P.S –Chopra, Dist- Uttar Dinajpur in Mahananda River, W.B., has been prepared by the undersigned, Reg. No. REG. NO RQP/COM(N)-UDP/306/2006/A & Reg No. 34012/(1)2011-CPAM, GOI FOR (Coal & Lignite)as per strict compliance of MCDR – 1988 & MCR -2016. Any specific permissions whatever are required the applicant will approach the concerned authorities.

CERTIFIED that the information’s furnished in the Mine Plan are true and correct to the best of my knowledge.

Place – Ranchi, Jharkhand Dated:- A.K.SINHA, B- 31, Vashundhara Garden, Harihar Singh Road, Bariatu, Ranchi, (Jharkhand).