Initial Environmental Examination
Project Number: P51337-001 December 2020
India: Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project
Thanjavur to Mannargudi (SH63)
Prepared by Highways and Minor Ports Department (TNHD), Government of Tamil Nadu for the Asian Development Bank.
CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS (as of 30 November 2020)
Currency unit = Indian rupee/s (Re/Rs) Re1.00 = $0.0133 $1.00 = Rs74.9311
ABBREVIATION
AADT - Annual Average Daily Traffic AAQM - Ambient air quality monitoring ADB - Asian Development Bank AMSL - Above Mean Sea Level ASI - Archaeological Survey of India BDL - Below detectable limit BGL - Below ground level BOD - Biochemical oxygen demand BOQ - Bill of quantity CGWA - Central Ground Water Authority CO - Carbon monoxide COD - Chemical oxygen demand CPCB - Central Pollution Control Board CSC - Construction Supervision Consultant DFO - Divisional Forest Officer/ District Forest Officer DG - Diesel generating set DO - Dissolved oxygen DPR - Detailed project report E&S - Environment and social EA - Executing agency EAC - Expert Appraisal Committee EFP - Environmental Focal Person EHS - Environment Health and Safety EIA - Environmental impact assessment EMOP - Environmental monitoring plan EMP - Environmental management plan FIU - Field Implementation Unit GHG - Greenhouse gas GIS - Geographical information system GOI - Government of India GRC - Grievance redress committee GRM - Grievance redress mechanism HFL - Highest flood level IA - Implementing Agency IEE - Initial Environmental Examination IMD - Indian Meteorological Department IRC - Indian Road Congress IUCN - International Union for Conservation of Nature LHS - Left hand side
LPG - Liquefied petroleum gas MOEFCC - Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change MORTH - Ministry of Road Surface Transport and Highways N, S, E, - Wind Directions (North, South, East, West or combination of W, NE, Two directions like South West, North West) SW, NW NBWL - National Board for Wildlife NGO - Non-governmental organization NH - National Highway NOC - No Objection Certificate NOx - Oxides of nitrogen PAH - Project Affected Household PAP - Project Affected Persons PAs - Protected Areas PCCF - Principal Chief Conservator of Forests PCR - Public Community Resources PCU - Passenger Car Units PD - Project Director PM - Particulate Matter PIU - Project Implementation Unit PPE - Personal protective equipment PPT - Parts per trillion PUC - Pollution Under Control CKIC - Chennai Kanyakumari Industry Corridor R & R - Rehabilitation and Resettlement RHS - Right hand side ROB - Road Over Bridge ROW - Right of way RSPM - Respiratory suspended particulate matter SC - Scheduled Cast – Name of a community in India SEIAA - State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority SEMU - Social and Environmental Management Unit SH - State highway SO2 - Sulphur Dioxide SOI - Survey of India SPCB - State Pollution Control Board SPL - Sound Pressure Level SPM - Suspended Particulate Matter SPS - ADB Safeguard Policy Statement, 2009 ST - Scheduled Tribes TNICP - Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project TNHD - Tamil Nadu Highways and Minor Ports Department TDS - Total dissolved solids TSS - Total Suspended Solids UT - Union Territories VBS - Vaduvoor Birds Sanctuary ZSI - Zoological survey of India
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES dB(A) – A-weighted decibel ha – hectare km – kilometre µg – microgram m – meter MW (megawatt) – megawatt PM 2.5 or 10 – Particulate Matter of 2.5 micron or 10 micron size
NOTE In this report, "$" refers to US dollars.
This initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “terms of use” section of this website.
In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... I EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... I I. INTRODUCTION ...... 1
A. PROJECT BACKGROUND ...... 1 B. NATURE, SIZE AND LOCATION OF PROJECT ROAD ...... 1 C. BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT REPORT ...... 2 D. OBJECTIVE AND SCOPE OF THE STUDY ...... 2 E. METHODOLOGY ADOPTED FOR IEE STUDY ...... 3 F. STRUCTURE OF THE REPORT ...... 5 II. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK ...... 7
A. NATIONAL (INDIA) ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY FRAMEWORK ...... 7 B. SOCIAL REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS OF INDIA AND TAMIL NADU ...... 10 C. INTERNATIONAL TREATIES AND RELEVANCE TO THE PROJECT ...... 10 D. PROJECT STANDARDS ...... 11 E. ADB’S SAFEGUARD POLICY STATEMENT REQUIREMENTS ...... 11 F. CATEGORY OF THE PROJECT ...... 12 III. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 13
A. LOCATION, TYPE AND FEATURES OF PROJECT ROAD ...... 13 B. ENGINEERING SURVEYS AND INVESTIGATIONS ...... 14 C. CURRENT AND PROJECTED DAILY TRAFFIC ...... 15 D. DESIGN STANDARDS ...... 15 E. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENT ...... 21 F. CONSTRUCTION CAMPS ...... 29 G. PROJECT COST ...... 29 H. CONSTRUCTION PACKAGING AND IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE ...... 29 I. PROJECT BENEFITS ...... 29 IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT ...... 30
A. INTRODUCTION ...... 30 B. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 33 C. LAND ENVIRONMENT ...... 40 D. LAND USE ...... 46 E. WATER ENVIRONMENT ...... 51 F. AIR QUALITY ...... 58 G. NOISE LEVEL ...... 61 H. COASTAL AND MARINE RESOURCES IN PROJECT INFLUENCE AREA ...... 62 I. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 62 J. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 77 V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 80
A. INTRODUCTION ...... 80 B. SCREENING OF IMPACTS ...... 84 C. TYPICAL POTENTIAL IMPACTS ...... 88 D. IMPACTS ON PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 88 E. IMPACTS ON BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT...... 102 F. IMPACTS ON SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 108 G. INDUCED AND CUMULATIVE IMPACTS ...... 121 H. EXPECTED BENEFITS FROM THE PROJECT ...... 122 VI. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES ...... 123
A. ‘WITH PROJECT’ AND ‘WITHOUT PROJECT’ SCENARIO ...... 123 B. LOCATION AND ALIGNMENT ALTERNATIVES ...... 126 C. ALIGNMENT MODIFICATIONS DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS ...... 126 D. ENGINEERING/TECHNOLOGICAL ALTERNATIVES ...... 126 VII. CONSULTATION, PARTICIPATION AND INFORMATION DISCLOSURE ...... 128
A. MEANINGFUL CONSULTATION ...... 128 B. OBJECTIVES OF THE CONSULTATIONS ...... 128 C. METHODOLOGY FOR CONSULTATIONS ...... 128 D. INTERACTION WITH NGOS ...... 133 E. PUBLIC DISCLOSURE AND FURTHER CONSULTATIONS ...... 134 VIII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM ...... 135 IX. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 137
A. INTRODUCTION ...... 137 B. OBJECTIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 137 C. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN MATRIX ...... 137 D. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM ...... 137 E. INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS ...... 168 F. ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTING SYSTEM ...... 174 G. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT BUDGET ...... 175 X. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 179 APPENDICES ...... 181
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Details of Thanjavur to Mannargudi Road (SH-63) 1 Table 2: Primary and Secondary Information Sources 4 Table 3: Applicable Environmental National and State Requirements 8 Table 4: Thanjavur - Mannargudi (SH-63) Road Features 13 Table 5: Summary of Average Daily Traffic (ADT) in for the Project Road 15 Table 6: Radius for Horizontal Curves 17 Table 7: Sight Distance 18 Table 8: Radius for Horizontal Curves 19 Table 9: Cross-sectional Element 19 Table 10: Additional Land Acquisition Details for the Project Road 22 Table 11: Environmental Attributes and Frequency of Monitoring 30 Table 12: Month Wise Rainfall in Project Districts 34 Table 13: Temperature (Max. & Min.) of Project Districts 37 Table 14: Land Use Pattern of Within 500m Buffer of Project Road 46 Table 15: Soil Sampling Locations along the Project Road 50 Table 16: Soil Quality along the Project Road 50 Table 17: Details of Drainage along the Project Road 52 Table 18: Details of Water Bodies along Project Road 53 Table 19: Water Sample Location along the Project Road 54 Table 20: Ground Water Quality Monitoring Results along the Project Road 54 Table 21: Surface Water Quality along the Project Alignment 57 Table 22: Details of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Locations 58 Table 23: Techniques Used for Ambient Air Quality Monitoring 59 Table 24: Summary of AAQM Results along the Project Road 59
Table 25: Details of Noise Level Monitoring Locations 61 Table 26: Ambient Noise Level in decibel (A) along the Project Road 62 Table 27: Forest Cover in Project Districts (Km2) 63 Table 28: Protected Area along Project Road 64 Table 29: Tree Species Within Formation Width (>30cm) 68 Table 30: Floral Species Recorded in the Project Area 69 Table 31: Birds Species Observed in DMU Established in PAI for Field Survey 70 Table 32: Birds Species in Project Affected Area Listed in IUCN Red List and Wildlife Protection (Act) 1972 72 Table 33: Birds Species in Project Affected area Listed in IUCN Red List and Wildlife Protection (Act) 1972 75 Table 34: Demographic Features of Project Districts 77 Table 35: Physical/Sensitive Features along the Project Road 79 Table 36: Sensitivity of VECs in the Project Area 81 Table 37: Criteria for Rating the Significance of Impacts 84 Table 38: Screening of Environmental Impacts on VECs 85 Table 39: Impact on Air Quality During Construction Stage 88 Table 40: Annual Average Daily Traffic Data 90 Table 41: Emission Factors for Different Types of Vehicle (ARAI, 2007) 90 Table 42: Meteorological Parameters Used for Modelling 91 Table 43: Average Background Concentration of Pollutants along Project Road 92 Table 44: CO predicted concentrations (ppm) along the proposed road 93 Table 45:PM2.5 predicted concentrations (µg/m3) along the proposed road 93 Table 46:PM10 Predicted Concentrations (µg/m3) along the Proposed Road 93 Table 47:Nox Predicted Concentrations (µg/m3) along the Proposed Road 94 Table 48:SO2 predicted concentrations (µg/m3) along the Proposed Road* 94 Table 49: CO2 Emission at BAU, Project With and Without Induced Traffic 95 Table 50: Construction Noise/Distance Relationship 110 Table 51: Likely Impact on Noise Quality in the Vicinity of Project Area 111 Table 52:Typical Noise Levels of Principal Construction Equipment (Noise Level in db(A) at 50 Feet) 111 Table 53: Annual Average Daily Motorized Traffic Data 114 Table 54:Equivalent Background Noise levels 114 Table 55:Predicted Noise Levels along the Project Road 114 Table 56: Vibration Generated from Different Construction Equipment 116 Table 57: Building Vibration Damage Assessment Criteria 117 Table 58: Comparison of Positive and Negative Impacts of ‘With’ and ‘Without’ Project Scenario 124 Table 59: Details of the Public Consultation 129 Table 60: Summary of Issues Discussed and Measures Taken 131 Table 61: Environmental Management Plan 140 Table 62: Environmental Monitoring Plan 163 Table 63: Environmental Reporting System 175 Table 64: Environmental Management Cost Estimate * 176
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Location of Project Road Alignment on Map 2 Figure 2: Typical Cross Sections 24 Figure 3: Environmental Quality (Air, Water, Noise, Soil) Monitoring Locations along the Project Road 32 Figure 4: Sampling Locations for Biodiversity Assessment 33 Figure 5: Rainfall Distribution in State of Tamil Nadu 35 Figure 6: Climatic Conditions in Project Region 36 Figure 7: Temperature Distribution Map of Tamil Nadu 38 Figure 8: Humidity Map of Tamil Nadu State 39 Figure 9: Wind Speed in Project Districts 40 Figure 10: Topographic Feature of Tamil Nadu 41 Figure 11: Relief and Slope Map of Project Districts 42 Figure 12: Geology of State of Tamil Nadu 43 Figure 13: Rocks and Minerals Map of Project Districts 44 Figure 14: Seismic Map of Tamil Nadu 45 Figure 15: General Land Use Pattern in Project District 47 Figure 16: Soil Types in Project Districts 49 Figure 17: Soil Type Based on Water Retention Characteristics in Tamil Nadu 50 Figure 18: Summary of Ambient Air Quality Results 60 Figure 19: Forest Cover map of Tamil Nadu showing Project Road 63 Figure 20: Layout of VBS along SH-63 65 Figure 21: Map Showing Protected area and Proposed ESZ of VBS 66 Figure 22: Sanctuary area and ESZ boundary on Google Map 67 Figure 23: Map of Project area, Showing locations of Area of Analysis, Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary/Important Bird Area, and land use/land cover in relation to the existing road. All terrestrial areas are considered to be Modified Habitat 76 Figure 24: Grievance Redress Mechanism 136
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A. Introduction
1. The Government of Tamil Nadu proposes to upgrade its road network falling in the conceptual influence area of the Chennai Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor (CKIC), which aims at improving the transport infrastructure, such as the connectivity of industrial nodes to ports, urban areas and critical hinterland areas. The Highways and Minor Ports Department (TNHD) of Tamil Nadu has been mandated to undertake improvement and upgradation of various State Highways at different locations in the State under this project and will serve as the Executing Agency (EA). As part of this mandate, the Construction and Maintenance (C&M) Wing of TNHD has identified the 16 road sections for improvement totally totaling about 590 km spread across the State. The project will be financed through a project loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project (TNICP). The Project Implementation Unit (PIU) formed within TNHD will be the Implementing Agency (IA).
2. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report including Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is prepared for Thanjavur to Mannargudi section of SH-63. The length of the project road is 27.585 km. The project road stretched from km 0+000 to km 15+800 falls in Thanjavur district and the rest of the road stretch from km 15+800 to km 27+585 falls in Thiruvarur district.
3. As per provisions of the EIA Notification 2006 (amended in 2020), all new state highway and state highway expansion projects except in hilly terrain (above 1,000m AMSL) and or notified ecologically sensitive areas fall under Category B and does not require environmental clearance from the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). The project road section is a state highway located on generally plain terrain with elevation is below 150m AMSL. The project road alignment is not passing through any forest area and notified protected area. Thus, the project road does not fall under the purview of environmental clearance under EIA notification 2006 of MOEFCC.
B. Description of the Project
4. The proposed road section is part of SH-63 in the State of Tamil Nadu. The existing road is of two-lane carriageway with earthen shoulder configuration type. Width of existing RoW is not uniform along the project road and the carriageway/roadway width of the road is uniform with 7m throughout the stretch. The proposed RoW of the project road varies between 16m to 23m. The existing width of the earthen shoulder varies from 1m to 2m on either side of carriageway. It is proposed to be widened it to 2-lane with paved shoulder configuration. The road traverses through plain terrain.
5. The project road traverses through 11 villages. Around 52% length of the project road passes through non-builtup areas with the remaining traversing through inhabited area. Altogether, 27.585 km of the project road has been considered for two-laning with paved shoulders.
6. There are no bypasses, but 3 minor realignments are proposed for the project road. The bridge and culvert inventory of project road was carried out to assess the existing condition and hydrological adequacy. There are existing 50 culverts and 6 minor bridges on SH-63. No additional new culverts have been proposed and 1 existing culvert to be abandoned depending on the hydrological requirements along project road. ii
C. Description of the Environment
C.1 Physical Environment
7. Meteorological Conditions: The climate of Tamil Nadu state is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. According to agro-ecological classification, the state has a hot and semi-arid climate. The climate may be classified into four distinct seasons: winter (January–February), summer (March–May), southwest monsoons (June–September) and northeast monsoon (October–December). The project road section is located in two districts. The details of physical environmental parameters of the district are:
Feature Thanjavur Thiruvarur Average Annual Rainfall 887.56 1105.9 Concentration of precipitation October, November and December Humidity Humidity generally high throughout the year (more than 70%) Wind Generally light except rainy season Temperature Summer 36.6C to 34C Summer 36.9C to 34.9C Winter 28.7C to 29.7C Winter 28.8C to 29.8C
8. Geography and Topography: The project region has plain topography having an altitude in the range of 1–150m AMSL. The land slope along project road is less than 10 m/km along the project road. Elevation ranges from 10m–50m in the project area.
9. Landuse: The land use distribution along the 500m of project road is predominantly built- up areas (53%) followed by agricultural land (24%) and open dry land (23%). The land use along the project road is mostly arable land. Banana cultivation is commonly seen along the project road. Also, it is to be noted that there is no forest land within 500m buffer area of project road. Vaduvoor, Neduvakkotai and Mannargudi town are the major habitation areas along the road.
10. Geology: Geologically, the entire state can be broadly classified into hard rock or crystalline formation and sedimentary formations. Nearly 73% of the state is underlain by crystalline rocks of Archean metamorphic complex comprising of granite, charnockites, gneisses, chists etc. They are further intruded at many places by quartz veins, pegmatites and other ultra- basics like dolomites. The sedimentary rocks occur along the coast, flanking the crystalline mass in the west. Geological formation in the project region comprises mainly of alluvium.
11. Soil: The soil of the project districts are entisols, ultiisols and alfisols. Based on water retention characteristics, project region found to have soils that have low water retention characteristic.The soil in general is sandy to silty with good amount of primary nutrients i.e., nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) content. It has less water holding capacity and is dry in nature. Chemically it is slightly acidic (pH range 5.64 to 8.14). It is observed that the soil in the project area is fertile with high agricultural productivity with appropriate use of fertilizer.
12. Water Resources and Hydrology: The project road falls in unconsolidated aquifer in Thanjavur district and semi consolidated aquifer in Thiruvarur district. As per the ground water categorization of blocks of district, the project road in Thanjavur falls in safe blocks. However, in Tiruvarur, it falls in semi critical block.
iii
13. Water Quality: In order to represent the true profile of the project area, samples from surface water source through which the project road runs were collected and analyzed as per IS- 2488 (Part I–V). Ground water (drinking water) samples were analyzed as per IS: 10500-1991. Water quality was monitored at two locations at one each for surface and ground water. Results show that the pH of the drinking water in the region is well within permissible limits 7.61 (6.5–8.5). The samples collected from ground water shows the parameter is well within the permissible standards. Other parameters analyzed like chloride, sulphate, fluorides are found well within standards. Overall, the ground water quality in the project areas is good.
14. Air Quality: Ambient air quality in the state is relatively good compared to other neighboring states. Ambient air quality for particulate matters (PM10 and PM2.5), SO2, NOx and Pb was monitored at two locations along the project road. It is found from the results that PM10 concentration at all monitoring locations were well within the permissible limits for residential zone i.e. 100 μg/m3 prescribed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change(MOEFCC) but slightly higher than World Bank EHS guideline limit of 50 μg/m3. The highest value of PM 10 is observed at Melaiyur - II (62.7μg/m3), which is well within national standards. Similarly, PM2.5 concentration is highest at Melaiyur - II and is 36.5 μg/m3 well within the permissible limit i.e. 60 μg/m3 prescribed by MOEFCC but slightly higher than the IFC EHS guideline limit of 25 μg/m3. Other parameters monitored i.e. NOx, SO2 were found within the permissible limits for all the locations. Overall, the air quality in the project area is good.
15. Noise Levels and Vibrations: Noise levels were monitored at three locations along the project road. It is found that hourly day equivalent noise level varies from 62.79 dB(A) to 65.86 dB(A), whereas hourly night equivalent noise level ranges from 47.28 dB(A ) to 56.64 dB(A). The recorded noise level is higher than the permissible limits for residential area of 55 dB(A) and 45 dB(A) for daytime and nighttime, respectively. This noise is mainly from vehicular traffic and local domestic/commercial activities.
C.2 Biological Environment
16. The RoW of the project road does not fall under any forest area and thus does not attract forest land diversion. However, about 1.85 km section of the project road (km 15+250 to km 17+100) passes through eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of Vaduvoor Birds Sanctuary (VBS). This sanctuary is spread over an area of 1.281 Square Kilometers (128.10ha) and situated in Needamangalam Taluk of Thiruvarur District in the State of Tamil Nadu. An irrigation tank maintained by Public Works Department was declared as Bird Sanctuary in 1999 (G.O. Ms.No.169 Environment and Forests Department dated: 22-07-1999) for the conservation of avian fauna that inhabit the water body.
17. The sanctuary attracts more than 54 species of water birds like Inis, Painted Stork, Grey Pelican, Pintail, Cormorant, Teals, Herons, Black-headed Ibis, Red-naped Ibis etc. the sanctuary is basically an irrigation tank that receives water from Vennar a distributary of Cauvery River and north east monsoon from August to December. It remains with low water level from April to August.
18. A critical habitat screening and assessment was conducted for the project site following ADB SPS requirements and International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standard (PS) 6. Vaduvoor was identified as an IBA owing to globally significant numbers of Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis), when that species was considered globally Vulnerable. However, the site no longer qualifies as an IBA (and thus also not as Critical Habitat) for the species, as it is now considered Near Threatened and only relatively small numbers are recorded at the site (e.g., up to 25). However, survey data suggest up to 772 of the Near Threatened migrant Black-headed iv
Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) were recorded in February 2019. It is unclear as to whether surveys from different parts of Vaduvoor may include double-counting, but Marjuk (2020) recorded more than 450 at the site in March 2020. Wetlands International (2012) considers the population of this species to be at least 25,000 globally, while BirdLife International (2020e) estimates 15,000–20,000 individuals. In either case, Vaduvoor qualifies as an IBA/KBA, and Critical Habitat, for Black-headed Ibis, as it seasonally holds >1% of the global population.1
C.3 Socio-economic Environment
19. The project road falls under two districts in the State of Tamil Nadu, i.e., Thanjavur and Thiruvarur. As per 2011 census, Thanjavur has population of 2,405,890 of which male and female are 1,182,416 and 1,223,474, respectively. Average literacy rate of district in 2011 is 82.64% compared to 75.45% of 2001. If things are looked out at gender wise, male literacy rate (89.04%) is more than male literacy rate (76.50%). With regards to Sex Ratio, it stood at 1035 per 1000 male compared to 2001 census figure of 1021. The average national sex ratio in India is 926 as per latest reports of Census 2011 Directorate. Children under 0-6 formed 9.92% of the district with almost equal distribution of male and female child.
20. As per 2011, Thiruvarur has population of 1,264,277 of which male and female are 626,693 and 637,584; respectively. Average literacy rate in 2011 is 82.86% compared to 76.58% of 2001. If things are looked out at gender wise, male and female literacy are 89.13% and 76.72% respectively. With regards to sex ratio in the district, it stood at 1017 per 1000 male in 2011 as compared to 2001 census figure of 1014. In 2011, Children under 0–6 formed 9.65% of the district compared to 11.98% of 2001.
21. Agriculture plays a vital role in the State’s economy as the major source of income along the project road is agriculture and livestock. Rice is the major crop grown in the project area. Cash crops such as cotton, groundnut, pulses and vegetables are also grown in the project region. The important food crops are paddy, bajra, ragi, maize and other minor millets.
D. Analysis of Alternatives
22. Since the proposed project is an improvement of the existing road section in plain terrain, no alternative alignment is proposed. Existing alignment has advantages over new alignment like acquiring land from private parties is less, length of road passing through ESZ of the VBS is also less. New alignment will have huge impacts on land and vegetation. Cost of construction is also lower for 2-lane configuration road.
23. However, alternatives were however considered in road design such as cross sections, soil erosion and slope protections, drainage structures, flexible pavement etc. The analysis of alternatives has also been made on the basis of “with and without project scenarios” in terms of potential environmental impacts. On the basis of the analysis, we can say that “with project” scenario will provide beneficial impacts, greatly improve the environment and enhance social and economic development of the region compared to “without project” scenario, which will further deteriorate the existing environment and quality of life.
1 Details are in the Critical Habitat Assessment done as part of the Biodiversity Action Plan, Appendix -16. v
E. Consultation, Disclosure and Grievance Redress Mechanism
24. In accordance with ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS) 2009 public consultations were held, as part of the IEE study. Consultations were undertaken with project beneficiaries, local/ government officials, community leaders, women groups, stakeholders in corridor of impact and people likely to be affected by the project. Various measures pertaining to environmental issues were incorporated based on the responses from the people. Both formal and informal modes of consultation were used in the public consultation process for the project.
25. Consultations were carried using standard structured questionnaires as well as unstructured questionnaires. In addition, focused group discussions (FGDs) and personal discussions with officials from line agencies, on-site discussion with project affected stakeholders, and reconnaissance visits have also been made to the project areas. The attempts were made to encourage participation in the consultation process of the Government officials from different departments that have relevance to the project. Same way, local people from different socio- economic backgrounds in the villages as well as urban areas along the road alignment and at detours, residents near the existing road, women representatives, local commuters, and other concerned were also consulted.
26. The consultations were conducted during preparation of the IEE. The official consultations with the key stakeholders were undertaken in the months of July 2015 as part of DPR preparation and in September 2019 and July 2020 as part of this IEE finalization at Vaduvoor Panchayat Community Hall, Vaduvoor. Various officials consulted include TNHD Officials, Forest Officers, Wildlife Officials, Environmental Officers from pollution control board, statistical officer in the project areas etc. Besides interview surveys, focused group discussions (FGDs) were organized at key locations along the project road. In total 96 people were involved in the consultations. Most of the people interviewed strongly supported the project. The people living in the entire project area expect the different project elements to facilitate transport, employment, boost economic development and thereby provide direct, and indirect benefits to them.
27. As project executing agency Department of Highways and Minor Ports of Tamil Nadu (TNHD) will be responsible for the disclosure of this IEE in compliance to ADB’s Access to Information Policy 2019 and ADB SPS 2009. The Initial Environmental Examination Report has been disclosed in the English language in the office of TNHD and divisional engineer office. The report will also be made available to interested parties on request from the office of the TNHD. Since this is environment Category B project, the IEE report will be disclosed to the public through the ADB and CKICP websites.
28. In compliance with ADB’s SPS requirements consultation will be continued throughout the project process. Prior to finalization of detailed engineering design, the contractor, with the assistance of the PIU should consult affected persons. Further, project consultations will be organized by the FIU in coordination with Construction Supervision Consultant (CSC) and with the presence of representatives from the contractor. These should be done at least quarterly during construction period.
29. A Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) will be established by TNHD prior to mobilization of contractors to address grievances related to the implementation of the project, particularly regarding the EMP. Through the GRM, responsible parties will acknowledge, evaluate, and respond to the complainant with corrective action proposed using understandable and transparent processes that are gender responsive, culturally appropriate, and readily accessible to all segments of the affected people. vi
30. Records of grievances received, corrective actions taken, and their outcomes will be properly maintained and form part of the quarterly progress reports (QPR) and semiannual environmental monitoring report to ADB. The Project GRM will be established to evaluate and facilitate the resolution of affected persons concerns, complaints, and grievances related to environmental aspects of the project. The GRM will aim to provide a time-bound and transparent mechanism to voice and to resolve the concerns linked with the project. Depending on the nature and significance of the grievances or complaints, the grievance redress mechanism (GRM) will comprise procedures to address grievances at several levels. For environment related concerns, a two-tier GRM will be established. Regional Level Project GRC will be chaired by the TNHD Divisional Engineer concerned and would comprise of TNHD Environment Wing Assistant Environment Specialist, Project Manager of EPC contractor and Resident Engineer of CSC concerned. Complaints that cannot be resolved at the field level within 7 days will be elevated to the State Level Project GRC. It will serve as appellate authority and will be chaired by the Chief Engineer and will comprise the Superintending Engineer concerned, Environment Specialist, Team Leader of CSC concerned, Project Manager from Project Management Services of CSC- 01 and Authorized Representative from EPC contractors, as needed. Grievance response period for all GRCs is 3 weeks.
F. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
31. Based on analysis of project activities and environmental baseline conditions, 17 valued environmental components (VECs) under physical, biological and social environment were identified. Assessment of the impacts on each of these VECs during pre-construction and design stage, construction stage and operation stage was carried out. Impacts were determined to be minor, moderate or major based on a rating criteria of sensitivity of the VEC, duration of impact, area of impact and severity of impact.
32. Most negative impacts are of moderate or minor risk. There is no potential impact with high risk is involved in the project implementation. Negative impacts with moderate risks include disturbance of habitat in the Bird Sanctuary area (water reservoir) noise and health and safety impacts on the workers and communities during construction.
33. The acquiring of 3.71 ha of land and felling of 1174 trees will be compensated under a mandatory compensatory scheme under the government wherein total 11740 trees (1:10 ratio) will be planted. This mandatory compensation scheme is expected to result in the creation of good vegetation cover along the road section, which will be fully realized in 10–15 years.
34. Other moderate and minor negative environmental impacts include dust; pollution of air and water; land acquisition of 3.71 ha and impacts on 148 private structures and 15 community property resources; inconveniences caused by shifting of utilities; health and safety issues for construction workers and local communities located near the project road; soil erosion; contamination and siltation of surface water.
35. These will be addressed through various mitigation measures included in the EMP such as regular sprinkling of water; enforcement of construction time limits; regular monitoring of air, water and noise; payment of compensation to affected people in accordance with the entitlement matrix in the Resettlement Plan (RP); regular public communication on shifting of utilities; enforcement of health and safety requirements in the work sites and camps; implementation of slope stabilization measures; management of solid and liquid waste and chemicals and other measures. vii
G. Project Benefits
36. The key positive environmental impacts of the project include improved vegetation cover, increase in area of good quality habitat by tree plantation 1:10 tree removed for the project through compensatory afforestation, which will be fully realized in 10-15 years and improvement of infrastructure along the project area. Further, the implementation of various project items is envisaged to have the following direct benefits:
• better connectivity to key locations within State; • smooth flow of traffic on State Highway Network; • improved quality of life for the rural population in the project influence: this as a result of better access to markets, health, education and other facilities; and the derived stimulus for local economic activity; • a more efficient and safe road transport system: through reduced travel times, reduced road accidents, reduced vehicle operating and maintenance costs and reduced transportation costs for goods; • the facilitation of tourism.
H. Environmental Management Plan
37. A fully budgeted EMP has been prepared for mitigation/management/avoidance of the potential adverse impacts and enhancement of various environmental components along the project road section. For each mitigation measures to be carried out, its location, timeframe, implementation and overseeing/ supervising responsibilities has been identified. Monitoring plan for construction and operation phase have been framed to ensure effective implementation of EMP.
38. The monitoring plan includes performance indicators for wildlife, water, air, and noise level monitoring, frequency of monitoring, and institutional arrangements of the project in the construction and operation stages, along with the estimated cost. The reporting system includes roles and responsibilities of each party involved in the project implementation i.e. PIU, CSC, Contractor(s), external monitor and reporting mechanisms during implementation and operation phases.
39. The monitoring plan also includes regular site inspections and checks by the PIU and FIUs under TNHD. The CSC will conduct weekly and joint PIU quarterly site inspections to monitor implementation of the EMP. The CSC Environmental Specialist will monitor implementation of the EMP while the Biodiversity Specialist of the external monitor consultant will monitor implementation of the biodiversity management measures.
40. An environmental management budget of INR 5,94,46,000 (Indian Rupees Five crore, Ninety-Four lakh, Forty six thousand only) (USD 0.80 million) has been estimated for implementation of the EMP and about $0.514 million dollars for the BAP measures. This budget also includes cost of environmental monitoring and associated trainings.
I. Conclusions and Recommendations
41. The proposed project road (Thanjavur-Mannargudi section of SH-63) proposed for the improvement is classified as environment Category B project as per ADB SPS requirements. This viii
is mainly because the project road passes through eco-sensitive zone of VBS. Environmental screening and assessment of likely impacts and rating of risks shows that with implementation of mitigation measures and habitat improvement activities the project will not result in significant residual environmental impacts.
42. A number of potential adverse impacts have been identified on issues related to dust, noise, pollution, soil erosion, waste, occupational health and safety, community health and safety and biodiversity. Most impacts were assessed to be of low to moderate risk. Potential impacts on biodiversity were assessed to be of medium risk. Biodiversity impacts include loss of about 1174 trees due to widening of road, potential mortality and destruction of habitat for wildlife species mainly birds and potential impacts on 1 important bird area (IBA) i.e. VBS. Project area triggered critical habitat for migratory bird species. A biodiversity conservation and management plan has been prepared.
43. Mitigation measures have been proposed and budgeted to address all the above identified impacts and risks in the EMP. As part of the EMP, biodiversity management actions have also been recommended to mitigate biodiversity related risks. These includes conservation/enhancement programs; strict biodiversity monitoring; and implementation of habitat improvement activities to ensure no net loss or achieve net gain of biodiversity under the project.
44. The EMP is a living document and will be subject to revision following finalization of the detailed design by the EPC. The EMP may undergo further revision during project construction if there is any change in project design and occurrence of unanticipated impacts. The environmental mitigation measures are itemized in the EMP and the Executing Agency (TNHD) shall ensure that the most recent EMP (including biodiversity conservation activities) and EMoP are included in the civil works contract agreement.
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Project Background
1. The Government of Tamil Nadu proposes to upgrade its road network falling in the conceptual influence area of the Chennai Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor (CKIC), which aims at improving the transport infrastructure, such as the connectivity of industrial nodes to ports, urban areas and critical hinterland areas. The Highways and Minor Ports Department (TNHD) of Tamil Nadu has been mandated to undertake improvement and upgradation of various State Highways at different locations in the State under this project and will serve as the Executing Agency (EA). As part of this mandate, the Construction and Maintenance (C&M) Wing of TNHD has identified the 16 road sections for improvement totaling about 590 km spread across the State. The project will be financed through a project loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project (TNICP). The Project Implementation Unit (PIU) formed within TNHD will be the Implementing Agency (IA).
2. Thanjavur – Mannargudi (SH-63) is one of the 16 corridors taken up for improvement under this project. As part of detailed project report (DPR) preparation, this Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report was prepared to cover Thanjavur to Mannargudi (SH-63) Road. All discussions thereafter focus on this road section. IEE has been prepared in accordance with relevant policies and regulations of the Government of India, Government of Tamil Nadu (GoTN), and the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 (SPS). This IEE report will be disclosed in the office of TNHD and on the ADB website.
B. Nature, Size and Location of Project Road
3. The length of the project road is 27.585km. The project road stretched from km 0+000 to km 15+800 falls in Thanjavur district and the rest of the road stretch from km 15+800 to km 27+600 falls in Thiruvarur district. The proposed road section is part of SH-63 road network in the State of Tamil Nadu. The existing road length is of two-lane road with earthen shoulder configuration type. Width of existing RoW is not uniform along the project road and the carriageway/roadway width of the road is uniform with 7m throughout the stretch. The proposed RoW of the project road varies between 16m to 23m. The existing width of the earthen shoulder varies from 1m to 2m on either side of carriageway. The entire 27.585 km of the project road has been considered to widened to two-lane with paved shoulder configuration. The road traverses through plain terrain. The project road traverses through 11 number of villages. Around 52% length of the project road passes through non-builtup areas, while remaining 48% length traverses through inhabited area. Table 1 and Figure 1 present details of project road.
Table 1: Details of Thanjavur to Mannargudi Road (SH-63) Road District Environmental Setup Length (Km) The entire length of the project road Thanjavur to Thanjavur & runs through plain terrain and 27.585 Mannargudi Thiruvarur passing across several agricultural land, villages, and towns.
2
Figure 1: Location of Project Road Alignment on Map
C. Background of the Present Report
4. This IEE report is prepared for the project road in order to identify the baseline environmental status of the project road alignment, assess impacts due to the proposed widening of the road on various environmental parameters and preparation of EMP to mitigate the negative impact on these parameters.
5. The IEE study was prepared between the months of November 2019 to June 2020 to to fulfil ADB’s SPS 2009 requirements for financing the Project. The detailed engineering design report has been prepared by M/s. SMEC India Pvt. Ltd. The IEE report is prepared by EA with the help of independent environmental specialist supported by ADB technical assistance.
D. Objective and Scope of the Study
6. This IEE report documents the environmental assessment of the Thanjavur to Mannargudi road and identifies the environmental issues to be considered in the project planning and design stages. In this report, the different activities that are likely to take place to achieve the project objectives have been analyzed. Potential impacts that may accompany them have been identified, assessed for significance, and concomitant avoidance, mitigation, and compensation measures were prepared in consultation with stakeholders. The IEE addresses the environmental management requirements of the Government of India (GOI) and ADB. Specifically, this report-
• provides information about the baseline environmental setting of the project road. • provides information on potential environmental impacts of the proposed project activities with its magnitude, distribution, duration and sensitivity of receptors. 3
• provides information on required mitigation measures with cost to minimize the impacts. • analyses the alternatives options considering alternative locations, designs, management approaches for selection of most feasible and environmental acceptable options. • provides details of stakeholder’s consultations. • designs an environmental management and monitoring plan with institutional measures for effective implementation of mitigation measures proposed and addressing grievances.
7. The environmental studies have been confined to the situation around the deemed areas of direct influence caused by constructional and operational facilities along the proposed road sections. The IEE was based on proposed road alignment and key construction activities such as site clearing, removal of trees, excavation, filling, grading and embankment formation, excavation for utility trenches, subgrade preparation, base course and asphalt overlay, shoulder, and construction of permanent structures like retaining walls, culverts and drains, and restoration and construction of bridges. The IEE also covered ancillary activities like camp site establishment and maintenance, sourcing of materials, and operation of equipment like rock crusher and hot mix plants. The corridor of impact is taken as 10 meters either side of the alignment (from edge of the proposed widened road) including RoW of 16 meters for urban stretches and 23 meters for rural areas. The project area of influence (PAI) was determined as the ROW plus 500m on either side of the road. However, the study area impact zone is considered up to 10 km aerial distance on both sides of the road to allow for coverage of indirect and induced impacts and a larger analysis of land use and other environmental features. Assessment is carried out on the following environment components: terrestrial and aquatic ecology, soil, water, air, noise, and socio- economic aspects. The project area of influence (PAI) was determined as the ROW plus 500m on either side of the road.
8. The following section of the report discusses the methodology adopted by the consultant in conducting the IEE study and presents the results of the same.
E. Methodology Adopted for IEE Study
9. The IEE study has been carried out, in accordance with the requirements of the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS 2009) and Environmental Assessment and Review Framework prepared for the overall Project. The Government of India guidelines for Rail/Road/Highway projects; EIA notification 2006 and its amendments by MOEFCC and the Highway Sector EIA guidance manual 2010 have also been followed in the process of this environmental assessment. The study methodology has been adopted in such a manner to ensure that environmental concerns are given adequate weightage in the selection of alignment and design of proposed road improvements. The study in this project employs an iterative approach in which potential environmental issues have been examined at successive levels in detail and specificity, at each step in the process.
10. The environmental assessment is based on the information collected from primary as well as secondary sources on various environmental attributes. Monitoring of air, water, noise and soil quality was also carried out within the ROW and significant issues were examined during field surveys to determine the magnitude of significant environmental impacts.
11. The major steps in the IEE process for the project were as follows:
4
E.1 Collection and Analysis of Data 12. Baseline data was collected on various environmental components such as soil, meteorology, geology, hydrology, water quality, flora and fauna, habitat, demography, land use, cultural resources, properties and structures. Secondary data on environment for the project road corridor were collected both from published and other relevant sources, e.g. the Department of Forest, Tamil Nadu State Pollution Control Board, State Statistical Department etc. The data collection from the field was completed with the help of enumerators / investigators. The interviewers were trained for filling up the questionnaire at the site. To ensure the accuracy of the data, collection was done under the supervision of the ADB TA consultant. The type and source of information compiled in this IEE are shown in Table 2.
Table 2: Primary and Secondary Information Sources Information Sources Technical information on existing road features and Department of Highways Tamil Nadu, PIU, proposed Rehabilitation work. Inventorization of ADB Project, CKICP, Design Consultant, road features; viz. water bodies community Ground physical surveys and graphics structures, environmental sensitive location areas, consultants congested locations, etc. Climatic Condition Indian Meteorological Department, ENVIS Website, NIC, primary data Collection Geology, Seismicity, Soil and Topography Geological survey of India, SOI Toposheets, Primary data collection Land Use/ Land Cover Survey of India (SoI) Toposheet, Observation during survey. Drainage Pattern Survey of India Toposheet and field observation Status of forest areas, Compensatory Divisional Forest Office, Thanjavur & Afforestation norms etc. Thiruvarur District. Status of Fishing Activity District Fisheries Offices at Thanjavur & Thiruvarur District Air quality, Noise, Soil and Water Onsite monitoring and Analysis of Field samples during field visit Borrow Areas, Quarries and other construction Feasibility report, field observations material source River geo-morphology, hydrology, drainage, flood patterns Socio-economic Environment Primary Census Abstract of Thanjavur & Thiruvarur, District 2011. Official websites maintained by state Govt., and Public Consultation during the Field survey
E.2 Environmental Monitoring and Analysis 13. Different locations were identified for monitoring and analysis of the noise level, ambient air and water quality. The monitoring and analysis of water quality, air quality and noise level has been done by M/s Global Lab and Consultancy Services, Salem a leading environmental research 5
laboratory. Air quality monitoring has been carried out as per MOEFCC notification of November 2009 the revised Air Quality standards and the on-site monitoring results are incorporated in Chapter 4 of this IEE report.
14. Vegetation and Wildlife Surveys. In order to assess presence of flora and fauna along the proposed alignment field surveys have been carried out with the help of field officers of the forest department. Specific attention was given to collect the data on presence of birds in the VBS area. Findings are incorporated in Chapter 4 of this IEE report.
E.3 Analysis of Alternatives 15. Alternative analysis for the present project road alignment has been made on the basis of “with project” and “without project” scenarios. The parameters considered for the analysis are the environmental as well as social features and their likely impact on the natural ecosystem.
E.4 Stakeholder and Public Consultations 16. Extensive consultations were held during different stages (reconnaissance, detailed design and design review) with key stakeholders that include local and beneficiary population, government departments/agencies, road users, and project-affected persons. These consultations allowed the interaction between the stakeholders and road designers to identify road features and construction methods that will enhance road upgrading and minimize potential impacts. Information gathered was integrated in the project design and used in formulating mitigation measures and EMP. Detailed description of public consultation is presented in Chapter- 7 of this IEE report.
E.5 Assessment of Potential Impacts 17. Potential impacts were identified on the basis of analytical review of baseline data, review of environmental conditions at site, and analytical review of the underlying socio-economic conditions within the project influence area.
E.6 Preparation of the Environment Management Plan 18. An EMP for the project road contract package has been prepared to specify the steps required to ensure that the necessary measures have been taken and the same will be incorporated during construction and operation stage of the project. The EMP includes the monitoring plan giving details of the resources budgeted and the implementation arrangements.
F. Structure of the Report
19. This IEE report has been presented as per requirements of the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS) 2009. The report is organized into following Ten Chapters, a brief of each chapter is described below:
• Chapter 1 - Introduction: This section describes the background information about the project and IEE study. • Chapter 2 - Policy, Legal, and Administrative Frameworks: this section summarizes the national and local legal and institutional frameworks that guided the conduct of the assessment as well as applicable international conventions and protocols. • Chapter 3 - Project Description: This section presents the key features and components of the proposed project. 6
• Chapter 4 - Description of the Environment: This section discusses the relevant physical, biological, and socioeconomic features that may be affected by the proposed project. • Chapter 5 - Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures: This section presents the environmental assessment of likely positive and adverse impacts attributed to the proposed project and concomitant mitigation measures. • Chapter 6 - Analysis of Alternatives: This section covers analysis of various alternatives considered to minimize the overall impacts of proposed development and suggest most appropriate alternatives based on detailed analysis of impact and risk associated with each alternative. • Chapter 7 - Information Disclosure, Consultation, and Participation: This section describes the consultation process undertaken during the environmental examination and its results, their consideration in the project design, and manner of compliance to the ADB’s Publication Policy and related national laws. • Chapter 8 - Grievance Redress Mechanism: This section describes the formal and informal redress procedures for registering, resolving, and reporting complaints. • Chapter 9 - Environmental Management Plan: This section discusses the lessons from the impact assessment and translated into action plans to avoid, reduce, mitigate or compensate adverse impacts and reinforces beneficial impacts. This plan is divided into three sub-sections: mitigation, monitoring, and implementation arrangements. • Chapter 10 - Conclusion and Recommendation: This section states whether there is a need for further environmental assessment and highlights key findings and recommendations to be implemented by the borrower.
20. An Executive Summary is also prepared and presented in the beginning of the report. 7
II. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK
21. India has well defined institutional and legislative framework. The legislation covers all components of environment viz. air, water, soil, terrestrial and aquatic flora and fauna, natural resources, and sensitive habitats. India is also signatory to various international conventions and protocols. The environmental legislations in India are framed to protect the valued environmental components and comply with its commitment to the international community under above conventions and protocols. ADB has also defined its Environmental and Social Safeguard policies. This assessment is about the applicability of above laws and regulations, conventions, protocols, and safeguards. This section summarizes the following:
• National (India) Environmental Legislation and Legal Administrative Framework, • Social Safeguard Regulatory Requirements, • ADB safeguard policies and categorization of the project, • Summary of international treaties and applicability to the project
A. National (India) Environmental Policy Framework
22. The legal framework of the country consists of several acts, notifications, rules and regulations to protect environment and wildlife. In 1976, the 42nd Constitutional Amendment created Article 48A and 51A, placing an obligation on every citizen of the country to conserve the environment. The national legislations are broadly divided under following categories:
• Environmental Protection, • Forests Conservation, and • Wildife Protection.
23. The umbrella legislation under each of above category is highlighted below:
• The Environment (Protection) Act 1986 was enacted with the objective of providing for the protection and improvement of the environment. It empowers the Central Government to establish authorities charged with the mandate of preventing environmental pollution in all its forms and to tackle specific environmental problems that are peculiar to different parts of the country. Various rules are framed under this Act for grant of environmental clearance for any developmental project, resources conservation and waste management. • The Forest Conservation Act 1980 was enacted to help conserve the country's forests. It strictly restricts and regulates the de-reservation of forests or use of forest land for non-forest purposes without the prior approval of Central Government. To this end the Act lays down the pre-requisites for the diversion of forest land for non- forest purposes. • Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 amended in 2003 was enacted with the objective of effectively protecting the wildlife of this country and to control poaching, smuggling and illegal trade in wildlife and its derivatives. It defines rules for the protection of wildlife and ecologically important protected areas.
24. State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) together form the regulatory and administrative core of the government for managing environmental impacts. Other Ministries/Statutory Bodies/ Departments responsible for ensuring environmental compliance and granting various clearances includes state ministry /dept. of environment, regional offices of MOEFCC and state forests/wildlife departments. 8
25. The EIA requirement in India is based on the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the EIA Notification, 2006 (latest amendment in 2020), all its related circulars, MOEFCC’s Environmental Impact Assessment Guidance Manual for Highways 2010 and IRC Guidelines for Environmental Impacts Assessment (IRC:104-1988) of highway projects. In addition to road widening and rehabilitation, establishment of temporary workshops, construction camps, hotmix plants, and opening of quarries for road construction work require compliance with provisions of The Forest (Conservation) Act 1980 as Amended and Rules 1981 (Amended 2003): The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 as Amended 1993, The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, as amended, The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, as amended, The Noise pollution (Regulation and Control), Rules 2000 issues by the MoEFCC, GoI and Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016 as amended.
26. A review is undertaken for all the environmental rules and regulation which might be applicable to the proposed road corridor improvement activities. Legislations applicable to this project are summarized below in Table 3. There is no separate state level legislation. However, various acts like Water and Air are enforced through state level authority, State Pollution Control Board (SPCB).
27. Specifically, for the proposed Thanjavur – Mannargudi road project in the state of Tamil Nadu, the following environmental laws and regulations are applicable in Table 3.
Table 3: Applicable Environmental National and State Requirements Responsible Sl. Requireme Competent Agency for Time Activity Statute No. nt Authority Obtaining Required Clearance Planning Stage: Before start of Civil Works Construction (Responsibility: Executing/Implementing Agency) Revenue Department (For trees Revenue Standing outside Forest Implementing Tree cutting 2 6 1. Orders and MoEFCC area) and TNHD – Project Permission months Notifications (b) Forest Department (For trees inside ESZ) Construction Stage (Responsibility: Contractor) Establishing Water Act of 1974, Air campsites, stone Act of 1981, Noise Tamil Nadu crusher, hot mix Rules of 2000 and Consent to The 2 3 1 Pollution – plant, wet mix Environmental Establish Contractor months Control Board plant and Diesel Protection Action of Generator Sets 1986 and as amended Operating Water Act of 1974, Air camps, stone Act of 1981, Noise Tamil Nadu crusher, hot mix Rules of 2000 and Consent to The 2 3 2 Pollution – plant, wet mix Environmental Operate Contractor months Control Board plant and Diesel Protection Action of Generator Sets 1986 and as amended 9
Responsible Sl. Requireme Competent Agency for Time Activity Statute No. nt Authority Obtaining Required Clearance Tamil Nadu Pollution Storage of fuel Permission Control Board Manufacture storage oil, lubricants, for storage or Local and Import of The 2 3 3 diesel etc. at of Authority – Hazardous Chemical Contractor months construction hazardous (District Rules 1989 camp chemical Magistrate /District Collector) State Minor Mineral Concession Rules, The Quarry Tamil Nadu Mines Act of 1952, Lease Deed Department of The 2 3 4 Quarry operation – Indian Explosive Act of and Quarry Mines and Contractor months 1984, Air Act of 1981 License Geology and Water Act of 1974 Permission for extraction of Extraction of Ground Water Rules of ground State Ground The 2 3 5 – ground water 2002 water for Water Board Contractor months use in road construction activities Permission Use of surface for use of Tamil Nadu The 2 3 6 water for - water for Irrigation – Contractor months construction construction Department purpose Engagement of Labor District Labor The 2 3 7 Labor Act – labor license Officer Contractor months
28. In addition to the acts and regulations listed above the EIA Guidance Manual for Highways 2010 issued by MOEFCC and the IRC Guidelines for Environmental Impacts Assessment (IRC:104-1988) of highway projects issued by MORTH, were referred in the process of preparing this IEE. The following requirements are particularly important and need special attention in order to avoid any delays for a project:
• As per provisions of the EIA Notification 2006 (amended in 2009, 2011, 2013 and 2020), all new state highway and state highway expansion projects except in hilly terrain (above 1,000m AMSL) and or notified ecologically sensitive areas fall under category B and does not require environmental clearance from the State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA).2 Since the proposed project involve expansion of the existing state highway road section between Thanjavur –
2 Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESA) are areas notified by MoEFCC an ecologically fragile area under EPA rules, 1986. List of notified ESA in India are available at http://moef.gov.in/rules-and-regulations/esa-notifications/. While Eco- sensitive Zone (ESZ) is area around the notified Protected Areas (National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries) as per the Guidelines for Deceleration of ESZ around National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, as details are given at http://moef.gov.in/rules-and-regulations/esz-notifications-2/. 10
Mannargudi and this section is not located in hilly terrain (above 1,000m AMSL) or any notified ecologically sensitive areas (ESA) by MOEFCC, it does not fall under the purview of EIA notification. Therefore, an environmental clearance from SEIAA is not required for this project road. • As per the Forest Conservation Rules (1981, amended 2003) a forestry clearance from Department of Forests is required for diversion of forest land for non-forest purpose. Processing of the forestry clearance entails two stages: stage I and stage II. Amongst other requirements stage I clearance requires the applicant to make payments for compensation of forestry land that will be acquired and trees that will be cut under the project. Accordingly, timely allocation of budget for this purpose by the applicant is necessary to expedite the clearance process. Proposed Thanjavur – Mannargudi road does not passed through forest areas, therefore forest clearance is not required as per Government of India requirements. • As per the Wildlife Protection Act, clearance from National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) may be required for proposed Thanjavur – Mannargudi road project as about 1.800 km road length of this road is passing through eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of the VBS (Table 3, planning stage item 2). • Cutting of trees in non-forest land requires a tree cutting permit from the local Revenue department. All trees cut under a project must be compensated by compensatory afforestation in the ratio 1:10. • Placement of hot-mix plants, borrow areas, quarrying and crushers, batch mixing plants, discharge of sewage from construction camps requires No Objection Certificate (Consent to Establish and Consent to Operate) from State Pollution Control Board prior to establishment (Table 3, construction stage item 1 and 2). • Permission from Central Ground Water Authority is required for extracting ground water for construction purposes, from areas declared as critical or semi critical from ground water potential prospective by them (Table 3, construction stage item 5).
29. Before the start of civil works for the any component of the project, the proponent (TNHD) must obtain necessary clearances / permits from the National Wildlife Board and State Pollution Control Board. No works will be done in the section along the ESA without securing all necessary permits.
B. Social Regulatory Requirements of India and Tamil Nadu
30. There are many rules and regulations framed by the Government of India for the protection of workers. Most of these legislations will be applicable to contractors in charge of construction. EA will ensure compliance to these social legislations through contractual obligation and regular checks and penalties. These legislations include the Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996, Child Labor (prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986; Minimum Wages Act, 1948; Workmen Compensation Act, 1923; Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972; Employee State Insurance Act; Employees P.F. and Miscellaneous Provision Act, 1952; Maternity Benefit Act, 1951; Payment of Wages Act, 1936; Equal Remuneration Act, 1979; Inter-State Migrant Workmen’s (Regulation of Employment & Conditions of Service) Act, 1979; Equal Remuneration Act, 1979 etc.
C. International Treaties and Relevance to the Project
31. Government of India has signed many international treaties. GOI has also framed various laws, regulations and guidelines to meet country’s obligations under these treaties. Projects of this magnitude may contribute in the meeting country’s obligation directly or indirectly. A screening 11
was carried out of these treaties regarding its applicability to this project. The relevant international treaties are:
• Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (Rectified by India in 1997): The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The major feature of the Kyoto Protocol is that it sets binding targets for 37 industrialized countries and the European community for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These amount to an average of five per cent against 1990 levels over the five-year period 2008–2012. • The Paris Agreement 2015: The Paris Agreement is an international agreement by 196 parties which aims at limiting global warming to 1.5 to 2 degrees C above pre- industrial levels. Through this, the parties also agreed to a long-term goal for adaptation through nationally determined contributions (NDCs), which is requested to be submitted every 5 years. India submitted its first NDC on 2 October 2016. • Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (Rectified by India in 1972): The most significant feature of the 1972 World Heritage Convention is that it links together in a single document the concepts of nature conservation and the preservation of cultural properties. The Convention recognizes the way in which people interact with nature, and the fundamental need to preserve the balance between the two. • Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Washington, 1973): Seek to avoid poaching by construction workers especially in environmentally sensitive areas. • Convention on Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn, 1979): Ensure potential impacts on any migratory species supported by the project area of influence assessed and managed. • Convention Relative to the Preservation of Fauna and Flora in the Natural State (1933): Preservation of Flora and Fauna.
D. Project Standards
32. Environmental standards for air, water, soil, noise, and vibration, among others will follow applicable CPCB, World Bank Group (WBG)/International Finance Corporation (IFC) Environment Health and Safety (EHS), or State-imposed limits, whichever is most stringent. When national regulations differ from the performance levels and measures presented in EHS Guidelines, projects are expected to achieve whichever is more stringent. If less stringent measures are appropriate in view of specific project circumstances, full and detailed justification of the applied standard or guideline should be presented in the environmental assessment. The justification should demonstrate that the chosen alternative’s performance level is protective of human health and the environment. CPCB and IFC EHS guidelines are provided in Appendices.
E. ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement Requirements
33. ADB has defined its Safeguard requirements under its ‘Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 (SPS 2009). The prime objectives of safeguard policy are to: (i) avoid adverse impacts of projects on the environment and affected people, where possible; and (ii) minimize, mitigate, and/or compensate for adverse project impacts on the environment and affected people when avoidance is not possible. This policy requires assessment, mitigation and commitment towards environmental protection. The extent of assessment depends on the category of the project. ADB’s SPS 2009 classifies a project depending on following three categories. 12
• Category A: A proposed project is classified as category A if it is likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are irreversible, diverse, or unprecedented. These impacts may affect an area larger than the sites or facilities subject to physical works. An EIA is required. • Category B: A proposed project is classified as category B if its potential adverse environmental impacts are less adverse than those of category A projects. These impacts are site-specific, none or very few of them are irreversible, and in most cases mitigation measures can be designed more readily than for category A projects. An initial environmental examination is required. • Category C: A proposed project is classified as category C if it is likely to have minimal or no adverse environmental impacts. No environmental assessment is required although environmental implications need to be reviewed.
F. Category of the Project
34. The project has been evaluated considering the outcome of the ADB Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist and the same is enclosed as Appendix 1. All environmentally sensitive areas along the proposed alignment have been critically analyzed to assess the magnitude and extent of likely impacts. About 1.85km length of the project road from km 15.250 to km 17.100 passes through eco-sensitive zone of VBS. Approval from the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) may be required for this section of road.
35. Certain sections of the project road involve expansion of the existing road to two lane standard road, where there will be land use change and earthworks involved. The road section crosses some of the water bodies and acquisition of land may be involved at a few stretches.
36. The project has been assessed to have potential site-specific environmental impacts, including wildlife impacts, during construction and induced biodiversity impacts during project operation stage. However, mitigation measures for such impacts are readily available and implementable. Hence, the project falls under environment Category B as per ADB Safeguard Policy Statement 2009.
13
III. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A. Location, Type and Features of Project Road
37. This report deals with the environmental analysis of the project road considered under ADB supported TNICP - Upgrading Thanjavur to Mannargudi road section (SH-63) from existing km 0+000 to km 27+585. The project road stretched from km 0+000 to km 15+800 falls in Thanjavur district and the rest of the road stretch from km 15+800 to km 27+600 falls in Thiruvarur district. Project activities include resurfacing, widening, restoration, and rehabilitation. It will involve improvement in project road taking into consideration of lane configuration, widening scheme, speed, embankment height and the urban or rural setting. The length to be taken up for improvement is about 27.585 km.
38. The existing road length is of two-lane road with earthen shoulder configuration type. Width of existing RoW is not uniform along the project road however the carriageway/roadway width of the road is uniform with 7m throughout the stretch. The proposed RoW of the project road varies between 16m to 23m. The existing width of the earthen shoulder is varying from 1m to 2m on either side of carriageway. It is proposed to widen it to 2-lane with paved shoulder configuration. The road traverses through plain terrain. The project road traverses through 11 villages. Around 52% length of the project road passes through non-built-up area, remaining 48% length traverses through inhabited area.
39. The project also includes improvements of various cross drainage structures. There were existing 50 culverts. No additional new culverts have been proposed and 1 existing culvert is abandoned. Thus, total of 49 culverts are proposed for improvement (40 for reconstruction, 3 to be widened and remaining 6to be retained). 1 existing culvert will be abandoned. In total 34 bus bays/bus shelter are proposed along the road.
40. There as six existing minor bridges along the alignment. Out of which 2 bridges will reconstructed, 2will be widened and 2 will be retained. Besides these traffic and precautionary safety signages, street lighting, and minor re-alignments are proposed at 3 locations. Lined footpath cum covered drains of 26.800 km were proposed in urban sections and unlined trapezoidal drains of 28.37 km in rural sections. Footpath of 1.5m width is proposed in urban sections. There is no bypass proposed but 3 minor realignments are proposed along the project road.
41. Width of existing ROW is not uniform along the project road, but proposed ROW varies from 16m to 23m. However, the carriageway/roadway width of the road is more or less uniform at 7m. Earthen shoulder width varies between 1m to 2m. From the existing ROW, it has been found that project road has not enough ROW to accommodate 2-lane with paved shoulder configuration. This calls for land acquisition along the project road.
42. The salient features of Thanjavur-Mannargudi road section are given in Table 4.
Table 4: Thanjavur - Mannargudi (SH-63) Road Features S.No. Description of item Details
Existing Features 1 Road length 27.585 km. 2 Carriageway width 7.00m 14
S.No. Description of item Details 3 Surface of carriageway BC 4 Shoulder width 1.00 to 2.00m 5 Formation width 8.00 to 12.00m 6 Right of way varies 7 Condition of the road Good/Fair/Poor, extensive cracking, patching and potholes found at some locations. 8 Terrain Plain 9 Tree Palm/Tamarind/Neem 10 Land use Agricultural field on both sides of road at some stretches and Residential/Commercial Settlements in Built up sections 11 Type of soil Red soil 12 Junction Major - 1, Minor - 42 13 Drain Unlined drain on both sides and filled with earth //stones/debris 14 Ecologically Sensitive Zone Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary 15 Traffic Intensity Moderate to Heavy 16 Bypass/Realignment Required minor realignments at 3 locations
17 Structures 18 Slab/Pipe/Cut Stone/causeway 14/35/1/0 19 Minor Bridge 6 20 Utilities Waterline, EB Poles and OFC Proposed Improvements
21 Proposed ROW 23m in Rural/realignments, 16m in Urban/Village
22 Carriageway 2-lane with paved shoulder 23 Paved Shoulder 2x1.5m 24 Drain/Footpath 1.5m Lined in urban/unlined in Rural 25 0/3/6/40/1 Culverts (New/Retain/Widened /Reconstruction/abandoned) 26 Flyover/Major Bridges/ROB - 27 Trees to be cut 1174 (556 on LHS and 618 on RHS)
B. Engineering Surveys and Investigations
43. Following surveys and investigations had been carried out on the project road for collection of data for incorporation in the DPR and adapt the design for improvement and upgradation:
topographic surveys; traffic surveys; • road and pavement condition survey and inventory; • culverts and bridges condition survey and inventories; • material surveys; • hydrology studies for new bridge structures; • Geotechnical investigations & subsoil exploration for structures; and • • 15
existing utilities surveys.
C. Current• and Projected Daily Traffic
44. Traffic survey stations were selected after detailed reconnaissance survey. All traffic surveys were carried out as per IRC Guidelines given in IRC SP: 19-2001, IRC: 108-1996, IRC SP: 41-1994, IRC: 102-1998, IRC 103-1988 Pedestrian Facilities and IRC: 09-1972. The traffic volume count was carried out for seven days during Feb 2014 as shown in Table 5. Traffic projections are in Table 40.
Table 5: Summary of Average Daily Traffic (ADT) in for the Project Road Vehicle Type Average Daily Traffic (PCU) Km. 8.800 Km 18.800 Car 1835 1554 Auto Rickshaw 42 29 Two-Wheeler 1335 1317 LMV (pickups and other less than 3T) 780 726 Mini Bus 0 12 Bus 1179 968 LCV 170 102 2-A Truck 1670 1272 3-A Truck 923 656 MAV / Heavy construction machinery (4 - 6 axle) 136 81 Oversized vehicles (7 axle / more) 0 0 Tractor 35 25 Tractor + Trailer 86 76 Cycle 78 143 Cycle Rickshaw 0 0 Animal drawn 0 0 Total 8269 6961
D. Design Standards
45. This section describes the design standards and principles based on which the various designs have been carried out. The formulation of the design standards is required in order to avoid any inconsistency in design from one section to the other and to provide a desired level of service and safety. These proposed standards are consistent with the parameters recommended in the relevant standards of the Indian Roads Congress (IRC).
a. Geometric Design
46. While doing the geometric design, the following have been taken into consideration:
• The designed facility shall not become obsolescent before the design year. 16
• Design shall be consistent and the standards followed for different elements shall be compatible with one another. • The design shall cover all geometric aspects of road including road, safety features, road furniture, signages, grade separated structures, etc. • The design will be done aiming at minimizing the vehicle operating cost including initial cost, cost of maintenance etc. • The design will take into consideration the environmental, aesthetic and landscaping aspects of the project road.
b. Geometric Design Control
47. The detailed design for geometric elements covered, but were not limited to the following major aspects:
• Horizontal alignment • Longitudinal profile or vertical alignment • Cross-sectional elements • Junctions, intersections and interchanges
48. The detailed analysis of traffic flow and level of service for the existing road has been made and traffic flow capacity for the project road was worked out. This analysis establishes the widening requirements with respect to the different horizon period.
49. Different options for providing grade separated interchanges and at grade intersections have been examined and the geometric design of interchanges has taken into account the site conditions, turning movement characteristics, level of service, overall economy and operational safety.
c. Horizontal Alignment
i. Design Speed
50. Design speed is the basic parameter, which determines the geometric features of the road. The proposed design speeds for state highway roads in different terrain categories is adapted as per IRC: 73-1980 were adopted.
51. The project road located in plain terrain improved to provide minimum radius in most of the locations to attain better alignment for the design and operational speed of 80 kmph to 100 kmph except ESZ area and built-up location. The only physical hindrance in the existing road corridor was from the roadside settlements and facilities scattered all along the road. The road is designed in accordance with agreed design standards depending on the type of terrain and the land-use. Further reductions in the design speed along sensitive land uses may be adopted to reduce noise and for pedestrian safety.
ii. Radii of Curve
52. The geometry of the road is corrected to have the horizontal geometry correspond well with the IRC standards. At the locations where the existing geometry is not in accordance with the design standards, an attempt has been made to regularize it. The minimum radii of the curve corresponding to the design speed have been applied as per IRC stipulations. 17
53. The minimum radius of horizontal curves is calculated from the following formula:
R = V2 / 127 (e+f) Where: V = vehicle speed in Kmph e = Super elevation in % f = Co-efficient of friction between vehicle tyre and pavement (taken as 0.15) R = radius in metres
54. Adopting a maximum value of 5% for super elevation and 15% for side friction factor, the minimum radius for horizontal curves works out to be per Table 6 as per IRC: 38/IRC SP-48.
Table 6: Radius for Horizontal Curves Terrain Radius of horizontal curves (m) Categories Desirable Minimum Plain 400 255 Rolling 255 170 Mountainous 100 65
iii. Super-elevation
55. The super elevation at curves have been arrived at as per the following equation: e=V2/225R where: V - Vehicle speed in m/sec. e - Super elevation ratio in meter per meter R - Radius in meters.
56. The super elevation has been calculated keeping in view the horizontal radii and gradient at curves at different locations and maximum super-elevation is restricted to 5%.
iv. Curves without Super Elevation
57. When the value of super elevation obtained from the parameters stated above is less than the road camber, the normal cambered sections are continued on the curve portion, without providing any super elevation. Normal camber of 2% is provided for rigid pavement.
v. Transition Curves
58. Transition curves are necessary for vehicle to progress smoothly from a straight section into a circular curve or between curves of different radius. The transition curve also facilitates a gradual application of the super elevation and any widening of the carriageway that may be required for the horizontal curves. The minimum length of the transition curve is determined from the following two considerations:
a) As per Comfort criteria, 18
Ls = 0.0215 V3 / CR Where: Ls = length of transition in metres V = Speed in kmph R = radius of circular curve in metres C = 80/ (75+V) (subject to maximum of 0.8 and minimum of 0.5)
b) As per rate of change of Super-elevation,
The rate of change of super elevation cannot be steeper than 1 in 150. The formula for minimum length of transitions depending on the terrain (plain/rolling) is: Ls = 2.7 V2 / R
vi. Sight Distance
59. Intermediate sight distances have been adopted for the highway design as per the requirements of 4 lane manual provision. In general, intermediate sight distance is adopted for the 2 lane sections but at locations where minimum intermediate sight distance cannot be followed safe stopping sight distance has been adopted.
d. Vertical Alignment
i. Gradients
60. The vertical alignment of the carriageway has generally been compatible with the guidelines given in the IRC SP 23 and the maximum gradient at all structure approaches is restricted to 2%.
• At locations of grade break of 0.5%, vertical curves have been provided. • The length of vertical curve is restricted to minimum 50m • Number of PVI are not be more than 4 in one km. • At locations of sight deficiency, at least Stopping Sight Distance (SSD) are provided.
61. Safe stopping sight distance, both in the vertical and horizontal directions are applied in design. The sight distance values as per IRC recommendations are given in Table 7.
Table 7: Sight Distance Design Speed (km/h) Safe stopping sight distance (m) 80 120 65 90 50 60 40 45
ii. Vertical Curves
62. Vertical curves are designed to provide for visibility at least corresponding to the safe stopping sight distance. More liberal values have been adopted wherever this is economically feasible. Valley curves are designed for headlight sight distance. The ‘K’ values for design control and the minimum length of vertical curves for the project road which is in plain terrain is as given in Table 8. 19
Table 8: Radius for Horizontal Curves Design ‘K’ value** Minimum Speed Summit Curves for Stopping Valley Curves for length of curve (kmph) Sight Distance (SSD) Headlight Distance (m)# 80 33 26 50 65 19 18 40 50 9 10 30 ** as per Table 6 of “Vertical Curves for Highways”, IRC: SP- 23 – 1983 # as per Table 20 of “Geometric Design Standards for Rural (Non-Urban) Highways”, IRC: 73– 1980
iii. Crossfall
63. Each carriageway has unidirectional crossfall. The crossfall for the pavement is 2.5%. For earthen shoulders, the corresponding value is 3.0%.
64. Cross-sectional elements are described below in Table 9.
Table 9: Cross-sectional Element Particulars State Highway Proposed Carriageway Two-lane: 7m (3.5m + 3.5m) Proposed paved shoulder 3m (1.5m + 1.5m) Proposed earthen shoulder 2m (1m +1 m), In Rural Area Cross camber on Proposed carriageway Flexible Pavement: 2.5% Proposed Earthen/ Hard Cross camber on shoulder 3% Proposed Median width ----- In settlement areas: Paver block for Paver Block and Covered Drain 1.5m of width on either sides and lined drain for 1.5m width on either side.
e. Pavement Design
65. The entire road stretch is proposed as per the guidelines comprised of the following for different sections:
i. Rigid Pavement
66. Payment design has been carried out by IRC: 58- 2015 or equivalent method in jointed plain cement concrete (JPCP), placed on lean concrete base and sub-base layer with flexible shoulder. The pavement has been designed for a service life of 30 years.
20
ii. Flexible Pavement
67. Design of sub-base and base courses of the flexible pavement has been designed for a life period of 20 years and for bituminous courses it is 10 years.
f. Embankments
68. Width: The width of the embankment is as per the approved typical cross-sections.
69. Height: The height of the embankment is as per the final road levels and due considerations to climate change aspects.
70. Slope Protection: Embankments is protected with stone pitching as per “IRC: 75-2015; Guidelines for Design of High Embankments”.
g. Grade Intersections
71. The locations where at grade junctions are required, the designs have been done as per the Guidelines given in MORTH and on the basis of “IRC SP: 41-1994, Guidelines for the Design of At-grade Intersections in Rural and Urban Areas.”
h. Bus Stops
72. The bus bays were provided in accordance with guidelines specified in “IRC: 80-1981, Type Designs for Pick-up Bus Stops on Rural (i.e. Non-Urban) Highways”. The bus stop layout has been provided for safe entry and exit of buses and safe movement of passengers. Bus stops with passenger shelter are proposed at suitable selected locations.
i. Truck Parking Areas
73. The proposed layout and the locations of truck lay-by are generally based on the provisions of 2 lane manual, if required.
j. Traffic Safety Features, Road Furniture, Road Markings and Other Facilities
74. For safety and operational reasons suitable safety features, road furniture and other facilities along the project road have been provided. These features included safety barriers, road signs, road markings, road lighting, route markers, kilometer and hectometer stones, road delineators, ROW pillars, parking areas and rest areas, bus stops/bays, and landscaping. Wherever possible these features are provided in accordance with relevant IRC or other standard, as detailed below. If no IRC Codes or the MORTH Specifications are available, international standards such as BIS AASHTO/ASTM/British Standards have been used in detailed design.
• Safety Barriers: Safety Barriers have been provided at the outer edges of roadways for the following locations:
1. Where height of embankment is 3m or more, for a continuous stretch of at least 50m long; 2. Either sides of major and minor bridges for a length of 15m; 3. Wherever the road is abutted by pond, well or any other water bodies; and 21
4. Either side of carriageway wherever horizontal curves having radius less than 450m for four-lane, 360m for two lane roads.
• Road Signs: The road sign requirements have been provided in accordance with “IRC: 67-2012, Code of Practice for Road Signs”. • Road Markings: Pavement markings along the project road are in accordance with “IRC: 35-2015, Standard for Road Markings”. These markings are applied to road centre, edge line, continuity line, stop line, give way lines, diagonal/chevron markings and zebra crossing and at parking areas. • Lighting: Lighting have been provided along urban areas, settlements, bus bays/bus shelters and major/minor junctions. The following codes are followed while designing the lighting system on the Project road for different locations.
1. IS: 1944 (Parts I and II) – 1970 2. IS: 1944 (Part V) - 1981; and 3. IS: 1944 (Part VI - 1981)
• Pedestrian Facilities: Pedestrian facilities have been adequately provided at built- up locations, major junctions, bus bays/bus shelters etc., • Kilometer stones: Kilometer stones (km stones, 5th km stone and hectometer stones) for the project have been provided in accordance with “IRC: 8-1980, type designs for highway kilometer stones” and “IRC: 26-1967, Design of 200m Stone”. The foundation details, text size, height and locations are in accordance with the IRC codes stated above. • Boundary stones: ROW Boundary stones are provided to be at an interval of 50m on both sides. • Reflective Studs/Road Studs: Road Studs are provided all through the Project stretch. Spacing adopted for the same is as per Table 9.1 of IRC-SP: 73-2015 and IRC SP: 84-2014. Road studs are provided at junctions, pedestrian crossings at bus bays, bridges and all other structure locations and approaches. • Hazard Markers: Hazard markers are put up wherever there are objects close to the road as to constitute an accident hazard, e.g. bridge abutments, culvert locations etc. They are provided as per IRC-79-1981, Type 1 or Type 2. • Delineators: Primary use of roadway delineators is in rural sections of main roads, especially in curved reaches. Delineators are provided as per IRC-79-1981 and spacing has been adopted for as per Table 1 of IRC-79-1981. • Landscaping and Tree Plantation: Tree plantation have been provided in accordance with “IRC SP: 21-2009, Guidelines on Landscaping and Tree Plantation” and Set back distance of trees in different situations is as per “IRC: 66-1976, Recommended Practice for Sight Distance on Rural Highways”.
E. Proposed Improvement
75. The Project Road will receive the following upgrades under the project:
a. Realignment b. Junction Improvement c. Design of Roadside Drain d. Project facilities e. Proposed Crust/Pavement design- New Construction/Strengthening 22
f. Landscaping g. Additional Provision related to Safety h. Improvement of Horizontal and Vertical Geometry i. Traffic signage/pavement marking j. Improvement Proposal for Bridges and Culverts k. Road Embankment.
a. Alignment and Geometry
76. Most of the length of project road runs through plain terrain cutting across several agricultural land, villages, and towns with a number of curves. These curves will be improved following standards to the extent possible within the available ROW and maximizing the use of existing pavement in rural stretches. Vertical alignment has been designed to correct the existing road conditions in compliance with road standards.
b. Proposed ROW
77. In order to meet future traffic requirements, the existing carriageway is proposed to be upgraded to two-lane with paved shoulder in urban areas and earthen shoulder in rural areas. Concentric and eccentric widening schemes are followed to minimize land acquisition issues and to ensure maximum utilization of existing configuration. The proposed ROW for the two- lane configuration with paved shoulders has been fixed as 16m in urban built-up areas and 23 m in open and rural areas/realignment. There is no bypass proposed. Only 3 minor realignments along the project road are proposed for improvement.
78. For the same there will be a provision of land acquisition where the available ROW is less than required for the as per the up-gradation plan. For 2-lane road, the required ROW is 16m. The details of land acquisition are given below in Table 10.
Table 10: Additional Land Acquisition Details for the Project Road Sl. Name of Chainage Land Taluk District No Village/Town From To (Ha) 1 Surakottai 0+000 1+850 Thanjavur Thanjavur 0.4497 2 Valamirankottai 1+850 2+200 Thanjavur Thanjavur 0.1122 3 Kattur 2+200 5+050 Thanjavur Thanjavur 0.1403 4 Vandayarriruppu 5+050 7+560 Orathanadu Thanjavur 0.1651 5 Sadaiyarkovil 7+560 13+030 Orathanadu Thanjavur 0.6631 6 Neivasal 13+030 15+900 Orathanadu Thanjavur 0.2715 7 Karakkottai 15+900 23+500 Needamangalam Tiruvarur 0.0117 8 Serumangalam 23+500 24+400 Mannargudi Tiruvarur 0.3025 9 Karikkottai 24+400 26+300 Mannargudi Tiruvarur 0.2731 10 Kumarapuram 26+300 26+800 Mannargudi Tiruvarur 0.4212 11 Vaduvur Agraharam 26+800 27+586 Mannargudi Tiruvarur 0.6077 Total Land (Ha.) 3.3503
Source: Social Survey, 2019
79. There is a need for land acquisition for road widening and at the location of realignments and curve improvement. The total land acquisition for the project road improvement has been estimated as 3.3503 Hectares. 23
c. Cross Sectional Details
80. The existing carriageway of project road is two lanes in most portions, however, in built- up sections existing carriageway is of intermediate lane configuration. The project road has a flexible pavement with 7m carriageway width. Widening is proposed concentric or eccentric (LHS/RHS) sections is based on existing site conditions and technical requirements.
81. The project is proposed for widening of existing road to two lanes with paved/ earthen shoulders. The typical cross sections (TCS) in built-up area, rural areas, overlay locations are shown in Figure 2.
• TCS 1: Two lane Rural section (New Construction/Realignment of 23m ROW) • TCS 2: Two lane Rural section (Concentric widening of 23m ROW) • TCS 3: Two lane Rural section (Eccentric widening, RHS of 23m ROW) • TCS 4: Two lane Rural section (Eccentric widening, LHS of 23m ROW) • TCS 5: Two lane Urban section (Concentric widening of 16m ROW) • TCS 6: Two lane Urban section (Eccentric widening RHS of 16m ROW)) • TCS 7: Two lane Urban section (Eccentric widening LHS of 16m ROW)) 24
Figure 2: Typical Cross Sections 25 26
27
d. Pavement Design
82. The general design procedure is based on the prevalent practices in the country. The design of pavement structure has been carried out as per IRC Guidelines and TOR. The detailed design of new pavement and overlays on existing pavement shall be based primarily on IRC: 37- 2012 and IRC: 81-1997 for flexible pavement. The project section is single Homogeneous Sections, the section is proposed for upgrading to Two Lane with paved shoulder. The proposed pavement composition in the widening portion are as follows.
Design
10-year CBR (90th
Chainage (Km) Design Bitumen
BC SG
Percentile GSB DBM Traffic WMM
Section Section CBR) Homogeneous Homogeneous 0+000 to 4+000 I 5.80% 40 90 250 260 - 4+000 to 7+000 II 8.20% 40 80 250 200 - 21.207 7+000 to 9+500 III 4.50% 40 105 250 310 - VG - 30 9+500 to 15+000 IV 7.70% 40 85 250 200 - 15+000 to 27+585 v 6.20% 15.542 40 75 250 260 -
e. Proposed Overlay
83. Profile correction shall be done by DBM+WMM+GSB as required. The above overlay shall be done in chainages excluding new construction/reconstruction chainages indicated above. The overlay mentioned above is minimum and the contractor should retest and provide the overlay as required. The above overlay shall be done in chainages excluding new construction/reconstruction chainages indicated above. Result and actual overlay thickness shall be got verified by the Authority Engineer.
f. Junctions Design
84. There are 1 major and 42 minor junctions/intersections in rural/urban section within the overall project road. The proposed width is 7 meters on all approaches and where the left turning movement is more, dedicated left turn lane and in addition pavement improvement for a desirable length required for major intersections and up to the EROW of main carriageway on minor (access) junctions as per junction configurations. The main objective of intersection design is to reduce the severity of potential conflicts between various fast moving and slow-moving vehicles and to facilitate the convenience, ease and comfort of people traversing the intersection. The design should fit closely to the natural transitional paths and operating characteristics of the users.
g. Improvement of Bridges
85. Six existing minor bridges fall along the alignment. Out of which 2 bridges will be reconstructed, 2 will be widened and 2will be retained. Traffic and precautionary safety signages, street lighting, and minor re-alignments are proposed at 3 locations.
28
h. Culverts
86. The project also includes improvements of various cross drainage structures. There are existing 50 culverts. No additional new culverts have been proposed and 1 existing culvert is abandoned depending on the hydrological requirements along project road. Thus, total of 49 culverts are proposed out of which 40 will be reconstructed, 6 will be widen and remaining 3 to be retained. 1 existing culvert will be abandoned.
i. Roadside Drainage
87. The design of drainage system requirements such as surface and sub-surface drainage for pavement, median, shoulder, high embankment shall be carried out in accordance with “IRC SP: 42-2014, Guidelines on Road Drainage” and “IRC SP: 50-2013, Guidelines on Urban Drainage”. The following types of drains shall be provided for surface drainage arrangement within ROW.
• Longitudinal lined/unlined drains shall be considered for adequate cross section, bed slopes, invert levels and outfalls by surface run off from the main highway, embankment slopes and service roads. • Closed lined drains on both sides in urban sections. • Turfing of side slopes shall be considered for embankment height up to 6m. • Combination of longitudinal drains and chute drains in high embankments of 6m height and above.
88. The culverts will be built to the same width as the flanking roadway and will be designed following IRC SP: 13-2004, IRC: 78-2014, IRC: 5-2015.
89. Minimum cross fall / camber will be kept as 2.5% both sides for the deck drainage. Water will be taken down to ground/drainage courses through proper downspouts and take down pipes at the edge of carriageway shall be provided according to standard practice to provide efficient transverse drainage.
90. Longitudinal drainage is much more efficient and a minimum nominal longitudinal gradient of ± 0.5% to 1% may be proposed to minimize intrusion of drainage inlets.
91. All the cross-drainage structures will be upgraded to two-lane with paved shoulders through new construction, reconstruction and widening.
j. Borrow and Quarry Materials Sourcing
92. The quarry sites (sand and aggregates) and borrow areas along the project road were identified, samples were collected, field and laboratory tests of borrow materials and aggregates were carried out to determine their suitability for pavement and structural construction works, and also establish quality and quantity of various construction materials and recommend their use for project execution. The borrow areas were selected outside the proposed right-of-way of the project road. A mass haulage diagram was prepared with quarry charts showing the locations of selected borrow areas, quarries and corresponding estimated quantities. The results of borrow earth, soil and aggregates were compiled following the formats given in IRC SP: 19-2001 “Manual for Survey, Investigation and Preparation of Road Projects (Second Revision)”, with suitable 29
modifications as per the site. The locations of borrow area for the project road has been shown in Appendix 2.
k. Water for Construction
93. A large portion of required water during the construction phase will be withdrawn from ground water after obtaining necessary permissions, in such a manner that the local water supply is not affected. The water withdrawal will not be from the single location as the project is linear in nature. No water will be sourced from local public utility for road construction.
F. Construction Camps
94. One construction camp will be set up by the contractor at a suitable location along the project corridor which will be in consultation with the Project Director and Tamil Nadu State Pollution Control Board. The camp will be setup away from the settlements, in the downwind direction. The guidelines for siting and layout of construction camp are discussed in Chapter-5.
G. Project Cost
95. Based on the bill of quantities and unit rates, the total project cost is INR 1913.46 million (US$ 25.54 million) for project road for Rehabilitation and upgrading to 2-lane with paved shoulders of Thanjavur - Mannargudi section of SH-63 having length of 27.585km.
H. Construction Packaging and Implementation Schedule
96. The project road section is proposed for single construction package under EPC procurement mode as being carried out for fast-track corridors. The contract duration is decided based on the conductive time period available for construction and the ease of providing the encumbrance free site to the contractor. Keeping in view of all these aspects duration of 21 months is proposed. The project is proposed to be undertaken through International Competitive Bidding (ICB).
I. Project Benefits
97. The implementation of various project items is envisaged to have the following direct benefits:
• better connectivity to key locations within State; • smooth flow of traffic on State Highway Network; • improved quality of life for the rural population in the project influence: this as a result of better access to markets, health, education and other facilities; and the derived stimulus for local economic activity; • a more efficient and safe road transport system: through reduced travel times, reduced road accidents, reduced vehicle operating and maintenance costs and reduced transportation costs for goods; and • the facilitation of tourism. 30
IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
A. Introduction
98. In order to assess the impacts of the proposed improvement to the project road, field visits were undertaken to understand environmental profile of the project influence area. This involved field inspections at all the sensitive locations, collection of secondary information for all the environmental components and discussions with the officials, NGO’s and local populace. The profile presented below comprises of the following:
• Physical environmental components such as meteorology, geology, topography, soil characteristics, ambient air quality, surface and sub-surface water quality; • Biological environmental components such as aquatic life, avian and terrestrial fauna, vegetation and other flora; • Land environment in terms of land use, soil composition; and • Socio-economic environment in terms of demographic features, economic setup.
99. The data on water, soil, air, and noise, were collected through field monitoring. The environmental monitoring was carried out by NABL accredited laboratory Global Lab and Consultancy Service Pvt. Ltd., Salem in the month of November–December 2019 for baseline air, noise, vibration, water and soil parameters. Climatological data was collected from India Meteorological Department. Efforts have been made to compile the available data from literature, books, maps and reports. The methodology adopted for data collection is highlighted wherever necessary. Environmental attributes and frequency of baseline surveys are presented in Table 11. The environment parameters monitoring locations are shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4. The baseline parameters are selected as specified by regulatory agencies in India and number and locations of the sampling are selected with due consideration to environmental sensitivity along the project alignment and as agreed with the client.
Table 11: Environmental Attributes and Frequency of Monitoring S. No Attribute Parameter No. of Samples Source LAND ENVIRONMENT 1 Geology Geological Status --- Literature review 2 Seismology Seismic Hazard --- Literature review Physico-chemical Sampling/Monitoring 3 Soil Quality Two parameters locations WATER ENVIRONMENT Physical, Chemical and Biological parameters i.e., pH, DO, BOD, Oil and grease, COD, total 1-Ground water Sampling/Monitoring 4 Water Quality Suspended Solids, total 2-Surface water locations dissolved solids, total solids, chlorides Turbidity and Alkalinity. AIR AND NOISE
PM2.5, PM10, Carbon Monoxide (CO), Oxides Sampling/Monitoring 5 Ambient Air Quality Two of Nitrogen (NOx) and locations Sulphur Dioxide (SO2). 31
S. No Attribute Parameter No. of Samples Source Noise levels in dB (A) Sampling/Monitoring 6 Noise Three Leq, Lmax, Lmin, L10, locations L50, L90 BIODIVERSITY AND ECOLOGY Literature review, Terrestrial Type of vegetation, trees Once (over 2- field 7 Flora/Vegetation and flora week period) inventory/sampling, and consultations Literature review, field surveys, and Once (over 2- 8 Fauna and Wildlife Wildlife and Species consultations with week period wildlife/forest officials and experts SOCIO-ECONOMIC Socio-economic Field Studies, 9 Socio-economic profile Once aspects Literature review. 32
Figure 3: Environmental Quality (Air, Water, Noise, Soil) Monitoring Locations along the Project Road 33
Figure 4: Sampling Locations for Biodiversity Assessment
SH-63 Project Road
B. Physical Environment
100. Information of various physical parameters was collected from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Statistical Department, Gazetteer of Tamil Nadu, Forest Department, Department of Environment and other concerned government departments and discussions with the officials from these agencies.
B.1 Meteorological Conditions
101. Meteorology plays an important role in transport, diffusion and dispersion of pollutants in the atmosphere. Due to this reason site specific data have been collected from the IMD website. 34
102. Among all other physical factors, climate is the most important factor-influencing environment because it plays a vital role in determining the evolution of landforms (erosion, soil characteristics), types of flora and fauna (ecological diversity), the productivity of ecosystems. It also has an influence on the pollution loads on the environment.
103. The climate of Tamil Nadu state is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. According to agro-ecological classification, the state has hot and semi-arid climate. The climate may be classified into four distinct seasons: winter (January–February), summer (March–May), southwest monsoon (June–September) and northeast monsoon (October–December).
104. The various climatic factors such as temperature, humidity and rainfall pattern in the project area are discussed in detail in the following sections.
a. Rainfall
105. The project districts receive rain under the influence of both southwest and northeast monsoons. The northeast monsoon chiefly contributes to the rainfall in the districts. Tamil Nadu state is the only part of India that receives rainfall during winter months.
106. The actual rainfall in Thanjavur and Thiruvarur districts for the period of 2013 to 2017 as provided by the Hydro-met division of the India Meteorological Department is given in Table 12.
Table 12: Month Wise Rainfall in Project Districts Rainfall for Thanjavur District (mm) Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total 2013 15 15 54 0.8 21 25 12 147 117 94.2 131 86 715.7 2014 4.2 11 0 0.1 131 7.5 52 116 40.6 233 176 141 910.6 2015 1.8 0 6.9 92 99 29 47 78.4 55.4 153 329 213 1103.8 2016 0 0 0.2 0.9 131 56 68 99.7 64.7 86.3 51 73 630.6 2017 100 4 30 0.2 31 71 36 237 135 109 221 104 1077.1 Average 887.56 Rainfall for Thiruvarur District (mm) Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total 2013 14 25 75 7.8 49 38 21 162 138 68.3 169 151 918.4 2014 6.3 13 0 0.3 181 2 120 94.8 30.7 333 252 168 1200.4 2015 3.5 0 22 123 126 51 48 61.3 58.1 158 482 384 1517.3 2016 0 0 0 0 187 34 39 78.9 56.7 68.6 90 92 645.4 2017 123 2 11 0 19 61 60 150 120 129 364 209 1248 Average 1105.9
107. Above rainfall data shows that project districts received maximum rainfall during months of October, November and December i.e., in winter season. Thiruvarur district receives more rainfall than Thanjavur district. The average rainfall in last five years in Thiruvarur is around 1105.9 mm and in Thiruvarur district is 887.56 mm. In the State of Tamil Nadu, the project region is in moderate to high rainfall receiving region. The rainfall distribution map for the State of Tamil Nadu presented in Figure 5 highlights this aspect very clearly.
35
Figure 5: Rainfall Distribution in State of Tamil Nadu
Project Road
Source: http://mapsof.net
108. Map showing the climatic conditions of project districts is presented in Figure 6. It shows that the annual rainfall in project region varies between below 700 mm to 1200 mm.
36
Figure 6: Climatic Conditions in Project Region
Project Road
37
b. Temperature
109. Thanjavur: The temperatures are highest on average in May, at around 31.6°C. At 25.2°C on average, January is the coldest month of the year. The mean maximum temperature of the district shows variation between 36.6°C in May and 26.7°C. The mean minimum temperature shows variation from 28.7°C to 21.7°C in December. The maximum and minimum temperature in Thanjavur and Thiruvarur districts is given in Table 13.
Table 13: Temperature (Max. & Min.) of Project Districts Month Max. Temperature (°C) Min. Temperature (°C) Avg. Temperature (°C) Temperature of Thanjavur District June 36.4 26.5 31.4 July 35.3 26 30.6 August 34.7 25.4 30 September 34 25.1 29.5 October 32.1 24.2 28.1 November 29.7 23.1 26.4 December 28.7 21.7 25.2 January 29.4 21.1 25.2 February 31.4 21.8 26.6 March 33.8 23.4 28.6 April 35.5 26 30.7 May 36.6 26.7 31.6 Temperature of Thiruvarur District June 36.7 26.7 31.7 July 35.5 26.1 30.8 August 34.9 25.4 30.1 September 34.2 25.1 29.6 October 32.2 24.2 28.2 November 29.8 23 26.4 December 28.8 21.7 25.2 January 29.6 21.2 25.4 February 31.6 21.7 26.6 March 34.1 23.4 28.7 April 35.8 26 30.9 May 36.9 26.7 31.8 Source: Climate Data.org 2015-2016
110. Project region falls in strong hyperthermic zone as per temperature distribution map of Tamil Nadu State Figure 7.
38
Figure 7: Temperature Distribution Map of Tamil Nadu
Project Road
Source: http://mapsof.net
111. The project area of influence area (PAI) has semi-arid and sub-humid climate in as shown in Figure 8. The average relative humidity in Thanjavur district varies between 70% and 85% and highest occurs during the months of December to January and the lowest during the month of June. The humidity is generally high in Thiruvarur throughout the year and exceeds 70 percentages during period from August to May. It is much drier towards the interior of the district. 39
Figure 8: Humidity Map of Tamil Nadu State
Project Road
Source: http://mapsof.net
c. Winds
112. Wind speed and wind direction have a significant role on the dispersion of atmospheric pollutants and therefore, the air quality of the area. Ground level concentrations for the pollutants are inversely proportional to the wind speed in the down wind direction, while in upwind direction no effect will be observed and in cross wind direction partial effect due to the emission sources is observed. In PAI, winds blow from north and northwest towards the east between October and December, when north-east monsoon sets in.
113. In January and February, winds blow steadily from northeast, occasionally from the north and northwest. Between June and September, the winds reverse their direction and blow mostly from southwest direction. The wind speed in Thanjavur and Thiruvarur districts is shown in Figure 9. As observed in the figure, wind speed is highest in the month of June and lowest in the month of November. The annual average wind speed in project region is 3.40 kmph. The results of monitoring parameters along the project road meteorological data are given in Appendix 15.
40
Figure 9: Wind Speed in Project Districts
Source: www.synergyenviron.com
d. Climate Risks and Vulnerability
114. A detailed climate risk and vulnerability assessment has been prepared for the project in compliance with ADB requirements. The assessment revealed that the project has high overall risk for flooding due to extreme rainfall, storm surges, and other extreme events such as water scarcity and heat waves. Measures to address these have been included in the design which include increased drainage capacity and embankment heights.3
C. Land Environment
C.1 Geography and Topography
115. Geomorphologically from west to east, three major units are recognized in Tamil Nadu viz. the Western Ghats, the Central Region and the Coastal Plains. The project road stretch falls in Thanjavur and Tiruvarur districts.
116. Thanjavur: The district is located at 10.08°N 79.16°E in Central Tamil Nadu bounded on the northeast by Nagapattinam District, on the east by Tiruvarur District, on the south by the Palk Strait of Bay of Bengal on the west by Pudukkottai District and on the north by the river Kollidam, across which lieTiruchirappalli and Perambalur districts.
117. Thiruvarur: The district is located at 9.28°N 79.3°E. The town is bounded by Sukumar river in the north, Valaiyar river in the south while the Odambokki river flows through the centre. The town has an average elevation of 3 metres (9.8ft) from the sea level. Thiruvarur is situated at a distance of 300 km from Chennai, 24 km (15 mi) from Nagapattinam, 40 km (25 mi) from Karaikal, 40 km (25 mi) from Mayiladuthurai and 56 km (35 mi) from Thanjavur. The town has a plain terrain.
118. The topography (altitude) map for the State of Tamil Nadu is presented in Figure 10 wherein project road section is also marked. As can be inferred from the map, the project region
3 Details in the Project Climate Change Assessment and Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment Report 41 has plain topography having an altitude in the range of 1–150m AMSL. The land use in the project area is mainly agriculture followed by built up and water bodies.
119. Also, the relief and slope map of project districts with marked project road is shown in Figure 11. As observed from figure, the land slope along project road is less than 10 m/km along the project road. Elevation ranges from 10m–50m AMSL in the project area.
Figure 10: Topographic Feature of Tamil Nadu
Project Road
Source: http://mapsof.net
42
Figure 11: Relief and Slope Map of Project Districts
Project Road
43
C.2 Geology and Mineralogy
120. Geologically, the entire state can be broadly classified into hard rock or crystalline formation and sedimentary formations. Nearly 73% of the state is underlain by crystalline rocks of Archaean metamorphic complex comprising of granite, charnockites, gneisses, schists etc. They are further intruded at many places by quartz veins, pegmatites and other ultra-basics like dolomites. The sedimentary rocks occur along the coast, flanking the crystalline mass in the west. This sedimentary formation is mainly comprised of recent alluvial deposits, tertiary sandstone, lignite, cretaceous limestone, argillaceous sandstone etc. Besides these, sporadic occurrences of upper Gondwana formations consisting of compact sandstone, shale etc., are found as thin and isolated patches. Younger alluvial deltaic deposits cover the entire coastal belt. The geological map of Tamil Nadu state is shown in Figure 12. As observed, geological formation in the project region is comprised mainly of alluvium. Figure 13 shows the rocks and minerals map of project districts with marked project road. As observed from the map, no minerals are found along the project road.
Figure 12: Geology of State of Tamil Nadu
Project Road
44
Figure 13: Rocks and Minerals Map of Project Districts
Project Road
45
C.3 Seismicity
121. According to 2012 seismic zoning map of India, the state of Tamil Nadu falls in Zone II to Zone III, least active to moderate zone of seismic hazard (Figure 14). The project road falls in Zone II, least active zone. Also, as per Global Seismic Hazards Assessment Program (GSHAP) data the state of Tamil Nadu falls mostly in a region of low seismic hazard except for western border areas that lie in a low to moderate hazard zone. The project road falls in low hazard zone.
Figure 14: Seismic Map of Tamil Nadu
Project Road
46
D. Land Use
122. The land use distribution along the 500m of project road is predominantly built-up areas (53%) followed by agricultural land (24%) followed by open dry land (23%) as shown in Table 14 (Figure 15). As observed, the land use along the project road is mostly arable land. Banana cultivation is commonly seen along the project road. Also, it is to be noted that there is no forest land within 500m buffer area of project road. Vaduvoor, Neduvakkotai and Mannargudi town are the major habitations along the road. VBS protected area falls within 1km radius of project road. Table 14 also indicates the distribution of land use within 500m area of project road.
Table 14: Land Use Pattern of Within 500m Buffer of Project Road Project Major Built-Up Predominant Land Use Road Areas/Congestion Points land use Thanjavur to Built up - 53% Vaduvoor, Neduvakkotai and Built up and Mannargudi Agricultural/Wet Land - Mannargudi town are the Agricultural Road (SH63) 24%, Dry Land - 23% major built up areas (Paddy)
47
Figure 15: General Land Use Pattern in Project District
Project Road
48
D.1 Soil Characteristics
123. In Tamil Nadu soils are classified into six orders, 12 sub-orders, 20 great groups, 44 subgroups and 94 soil families in the hierarchy. The six orders are Entisols, Inceptisols, Alfisols, Mollisols, Ultisols, Vertisols. Inceptisols cover about 50% of the State’s total geographical area followed by Alfisols (30%), Vertisols (7%), Entisols (6%), Ultisols (1%) and negligible area by Mollisols. About 5% of the areas are miscellaneous land types, which includes rocklands, marshes, urban areas and water bodies.
124. Figure 16 shows the soil map of the project districts with the marked project road. As observed, the soil types along the project road include entisols, ultiisols and alfisols.
125. Based on water retention characteristics, project region found to have soils that have low water retention characteristic in Figure 17.
49
Figure 16: Soil Types in Project Districts
Project Road
50
Figure 17: Soil Type Based on Water Retention Characteristics in Tamil Nadu
Project Road
D.2 Soil Quality
126. Soil samples were collected from two locations along project road, the details of soil sampling locations are provided in Table 15. The analytical results for each location are provided in Table 16.
Table 15: Soil Sampling Locations along the Project Road Sl. Sample Location Land Use GPS Point Code Chainage No. Village E:0303475 1 SQ1 Varivakottai 2.400 Agriculture N:1187756 E:0318924 2 SQ2 Vadavoor pudukottai 19.500 Agriculture N:1181925
Table 16: Soil Quality along the Project Road Sl. Parameters Unit SQ1 SQ2 No. 1 pH (10% solution) -- 8.14 5.64 2 Conductivity mmhos/cm 0.208 0.205 Sand % 10 75 3 Silt % 85 15 Clay % 5 10 51
Sl. Parameters Unit SQ1 SQ2 No. 4 Texture Silt Soil Sand Soil 5 Moisture Retention capacity % 1.73 0.68 6 Moisture % 5.37 2.15 7 Infiltration rate mm/hr 1.6 1.7 8 Organic matter % 0.0016 0.0121 9 Nitrogen % 0.0108 0.0105 10 Potassium % 0.0113 0.0112 11 Phosphorous % 0.0117 0.0113 12 Sulphates % 0.0264 0.0586 13 Sodium Sulphate % 0.0284 0.0627 14 Calcium Sulphate % 0.0306 0.0619 15 Oil & Grease % <1.0 <1.0 Source: Environmental Baseline monitoring report, 2019
127. The pH levels of the soils show that soils are slightly basic in nature at SQ1 and acidic at SQ2. The soil type is Silty and sandy at SQ1 and SQ2 respectively. The nutrient status of soil is also a key element in agriculture. Above results also shows that the soils of the study area have good amount of primary nutrients i.e., nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) content. From the results it can be observed that the soil in the project area is fertile with high agricultural productivity with appropriate use of fertilizer. The soil has good electrical conductivity.
E. Water Environment
E.1 Hydrogeology
128. Thanjavur: The district underlain by the various geological formations ranging in age from Archaean to Recent (Plate – II). Ground water occurs in six different aquifers in this district. they are Archaean aquifers, cretaceous aquifers, eocene aquifers, miocene aquifers, pliocene aquifers and quaternary aquifers.
129. Thiruvarur: The entire district is covered by semi-consolidated formations consisting of sand, silt and clays (Plate-II). Ground water occurs under water table, semi-confined and confined conditions. The important aquifer systems in the district are i) Lower Miocene deeper aquifers and ii) Pliocene Quaternary shallow aquifers.
130. The project road falls in unconsolidated aquifer in Thanjavur district and semi consolidated aquifer in Thiruvarur district. As per the ground water categorization of blocks of district, the project road in Thanjavur falls in safe blocks. However, in Tiruvarur, it falls in semi critical block.
131. The depth to ground water level4 of project region during pre-monsoon and post monsoon seasons varies from 2m–20m and 0m–5m; respectively.
4Source: District Groundwater Brochure, Thanjavur District, 2009 & Thiruvarur District, 2008 52
E.2 Surface Water Resource
a. Drainage conditions
132. Thanjavur: The district is a part of delta formed by Cauvery River. It has gentle slope towards east and southeast. The Kollidam River forms the northern boundary and flow from west to east. The Grand Anaicut is located at the western boundary, at this point Cauvery splits into Cauvery and Vennar. A regulator at Tirukkatupalli splits Cauvery into Cauvery and Kodamurti rivers. At Thenperumbur anaicut Vennar splits into Vennar and Vettar. In addition to these, the rivers split into many streams before reaching the sea.
133. Thiruvarur: The Vennar and Vettar rivers play an important role in draining the district. There are 13 irrigation canals branching from these rivers. There are 34 irrigation tanks, which serve as major source of irrigation the district. Out of 34 tanks in the district Mannargudi taluk accounts for 22, followed by Thiruthuraipoondii. Surface water canals are the major sources of irrigation water accounting for about 89 percentage of the area irrigated in the district, whereas dug wells and tube wells accounts for 11 percentages.
b. Drainage and Water Bodies along the Project Road
134. There is 1 lake, 13 canals/nallah crossings and 16 ponds are falling within the 500m area along the project road, out of which 1 lake, 4 ponds and 10 canals (Table 17) will be impacted due to the proposed development. Table 17 and Table 18 presents the details of the existing surface water drainage & surface water bodies and possible impacts along project road.
135. The Vaduvoor lake is located in the North direction of the project road from km 15+800 to km 16+700. Kulamangalam canal crosses at km 4+362 and km 7+692. Besides these, few small river/canals cross the project road at a few locations.
Table 17: Details of Drainage along the Project Road Name and Length of Present Sl.No. Ch. (Km) LHS/RHS Type of Water water bodies Impact Condition Bodies along road (m) 1 0.46 Crossing Nallah 12m Dry Partial 2 2.319 Crossing Vallam Canal 10m Static Water Partial is present 3 2.767 Crossing Canal 7m Static Water Partial is present 4 2.98 Crossing Canal 6m Dry Partial 5 4.342 Crossing Drain 5m Dry Partial 6 4.362 Crossing Kulamagalam 10m Dry Partial canal 7 4.381 Crossing Drain 5m Dry Partial 8 7.692 Crossing Kulamagalam 12m Dry Partial canal 9 8.964 Crossing Canal 6m Dry Partially 10 9.35 Crossing Canal 5m Dry Partially 11 11.35 Crossing Vallam Canal 25m Dry Partially 12 17.63 Crossing Vadavaru 15m Dry Partially Canal 13 25 Crossing Manarkudi 7m Dry Partially Sub-Canal 53
Table 18: Details of Water Bodies along Project Road Name Length of Distance Ch. and Type water bodies from Present Sl.No. LHS/RHS Impact (Km) of Water along road Centerline Condition Bodies (m) (m) 1 1.79 RHS Pond 30m 12-15m Wet No impact 2 2.95 RHS Pond with 40m 7-10m Static Partially concrete Water is stairs present 3 4.15 RHS Pond 40m 10-12m Wet No impact 4 4.85 LHS Pond 35m 7-8m Wet Partially 5 5.34 LHS Pond 20m 10-11m Wet No impact 6 5.6 RHS Pond 30m 9-10m Wet; water Partially hyacinth is present 7 5.74 RHS Pond 25m 12m Fresh water No is present impact 8 8.7 RHS Pond 40m 30m Dried No impact 9 12.1 LHS Pond 35m 6-9m Wet No impact 10 15.8 LHS Vaduvoor 800m 6-9m Wet Partially Lake 11 16.7 LHS Pond 30m 10-12m Wet No impact 12 17.6 RHS Pond 130m 10-12m Wet Partially 13 18.2 LHS Pond 120m 15-17m Wet No impact 14 18.94 LHS Pond 100m 12-15m Wet No impact 15 19.05 RHS Pond 10m 10-12m Wet No impact 16 24.55 LHS Pond 60m 10-12m Wet No impact 17 26.82 RHS Pond 40m 10-12m Static No Water is impact present Source: DPR
E.3 Ground Water Resource
136. Major source of drinking water along project road is ground water. The major ground water resources/facilities along the project road are overhead tanks, water tanks with tap. 1 water tank and 2 taps will be impacted due to proposed widening of the project road.
E.4 Surface Water and Ground Water Quality
137. There are many ponds and check dams along the project road. Also, many groundwater sources such as wells and hand pumps are located on both sides of the existing road RoW. The proposed project may contaminate the surface and ground water during the construction, operation as well as maintenance phases. 54
138. Surface and ground water samples have been collected along the project road to ascertain the baseline water quality. The details of locations of surface and ground water samples are provided in Table 19. The analytical results of ground water are given in Table 20 and surface water are given in Table 21. Surface water samples were analyzed based on CPCB classification and the ground water samples were analyzed for all essential characteristics and for most of the desirable characteristics specified in IS: 10500-2012. It can be seen from Table 20 and Table 21 that all the ground water quality and surface water quality parameters are within the permissible limits.
139. The water samples were collected at two locations (Table 19) along the project road.
Table 19: Water Sample Location along the Project Road S.No. Road No Station Location Coordinates Sources 10°43 43.1 N 1 SH-63 GW-1 Vandayarriruppu ’ ” Bore Well 79°13’24.6”E 10°41 53.5 N 2 SH-63 SW-1 Vaduvur Vadapthi ’ ” Pond Water 79°19’20.6”E
140. The results of the analysis of these samples are presented in Table 20 and 21. The results were compared with standards for drinking water quality.
Table 20: Ground Water Quality Monitoring Results along the Project Road Sl IS: 10500-2012 . Drinking Water Test Parameters Test Method Unit GW 1 N Acceptable Permissible o Limit Limit 1 Colour IS 3025 PART 4 Hazen <5 5 15 2 Odour IS 3025 PART 5 - Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable 3 Taste IS 3025 PART 7 - Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable No 4 pH IS 3025 PART 11 - 7.61 6.5 8.5 – Relaxation 5 Turbidity IS 3025 PART 10 NTU <1 1 5 Electrical 6 IS 3025 PART14 µS/cm 1624.9 - - Conductivity Total Dissolved 7 IS 3025 PART 16 mg/l 941 500 2000 solids 8 Total Alkalinity IS 3025 PART 23 mg/l 266 200 600 9 Total Hardness IS 3025 PART 21 mg/l 253 200 600 10 Calcium as Ca IS 3025 PART 40 mg/l 60.2 75 200 11 Magnesium as Mg IS 3025 PART 46 mg/l 25 30 100 12 Chloride as Cl IS 3025 PART 32 mg/l 230 250 1000 13 Sulphate as SO4 IS 3025 PART 24 mg/l 96.1 200 400 No 14 Iron as Fe IS 3025 PART 53 mg/l 0.21 0.3 Relaxation 15 Sodium as Na IS 3025 PART 45 mg/l 179 - - 55
Sl IS: 10500-2012 . Drinking Water Test Parameters Test Method Unit GW 1 N Acceptable Permissible o Limit Limit 16 Potassium as K IS 3025 PART 45 mg/l 31 - - 17 Bicarbonate IS 3025 PART 51 mg/l 266 - -
18 Fluoride as F GLCS/SOP/W/015 mg/l 0.27 1 1.5 BLQ ITC/CHN/FD/STP/ 19 *Copper (Cu) mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.05 1.5 020 05) Phenolic BLQ 20 Compounds(C6H5 IS 3025 PART 43 mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.001 0.002 OH) 01) *Anionic BLQ 21 Detergents IS 13428 Anx K mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.2 1 (MBAS) 5) BLQ No 22 *Mineral Oil IS 3025 PART 39 mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.5 Relaxation 1) BLQ ITC/CHN/FD/STP/ 23 *Aluminium (Al) mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.03 0.2 020 05) BDL 24 Manganese as Mn IS 3025 PART 59 mg/l 0.1 0.3 (DL :0.1) No 25 Nitrate as NO3 IS 3025 PART 34 mg/l 24.3 45 Relaxation BLQ ITC/CHN/FD/STP/ No 26 *Selenium (Se) mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.01 020 Relaxation 05) BLQ ITC/CHN/FD/STP/ 27 *Zinc (Zn) mg/l (LOQ:0.0 5 15 020 05) BLQ ITC/CHN/FD/STP/ No 28 *Cadmium (Cd) mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.003 020 Relaxation 01) BLQ ITC/CHN/FD/STP/ No 29 *Lead (Pb) mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.01 020 Relaxation 05) BLQ ITC/CHN/FD/STP/ No 30 *Mercury (Hg) mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.001 020 Relaxation 005) BLQ ITC/CHN/FD/STP/ No 31 *Arsenic (As) mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.01 020 Relaxation 05) BLQ *Total Chromium ITC/CHN/FD/STP/ No 32 mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.05 (Cr) 020 Relaxation 05) BLQ No 33 *Cyanide as CN IS 3025 PART 27 mg/l (LOQ: 0.05 Relaxation 0.01) 56
Sl IS: 10500-2012 . Drinking Water Test Parameters Test Method Unit GW 1 N Acceptable Permissible o Limit Limit Ammoniacal BDL 34 Nitrogen As NH3- IS 3025 PART 34 mg/l - - (DL:1) N BLQ No 35 *Barium as Ba IS 13428 Annex F mg/l (LOQ: 0.7 Relaxation 0.05) BDL 36 Boron as B IS 3025 PART 57 mg/l 0.5 1 (DL:0.01) BDL No 37 *Chloramine IS 3025 PART 26 mg/l 4 (DL:0.1) Relaxation Free Residual BDL 38 IS 3025 PART 26 mg/l 0.2 1 Chlorine as Cl2 (DL: 1) BDL(DL:0 No 39 *Silver as Ag IS 13428 Annex J mg/l 0.1 .005) Relaxation BDL No 40 *Sulphide IS 3025 PART 29 mg/l 0.05 (DL: 1) Relaxation BDL *Molybdenum as No 41 IS 3025 PART 2 mg/l (DL:0.005 0.07 Mo Relaxation ) BDL(DL:0 No 42 *Nickel as Ni IS 3025 PART 54 mg/l 0.02 .005) Relaxation BLQ *Polychlorinated No 43 ASTM 5175 mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.0005 Biphenyls (PCB) Relaxation 0002) *Poly nuclear BLQ aromatic No 44 APHA 6440B mg/l (LOQ:0.0 0.0001 hydrocarbons Relaxation 0002) (PAH)
MPN/ Shall not be detectable in any 45 *Total Coliform IS 1622-1981 Absent 100ml 100ml of sample
MPN/ Shall not be detectable in any 46 *E.Coli IS 1622-1981 Absent 100ml 100ml of sample
Source: Environmental baseline monitoring
57
Table 21: Surface Water Quality along the Project Alignment CPCB Sl. Test Parameters Test Method Unit SW1 Designated, Best No Use 1 Color IS 3025 PART 4 Hazen 10 300 2 Odor IS 3025 PART 5 - Agreeable Un-objectionable 3 pH@ 25oC IS 3025 PART 11 - 7.11 6.5 to 8.5 4 Conductivity@ 25oC IS 3025 PART 14 µs/cm 622.5 Not Specified 5 Turbidity IS 3025 PART 10 NTU 3.5 Not Specified Total Dissolved 6 IS 3025 PART 16 mg/l 359 1500 Solids Total Suspended 7 IS 3025 PART17 mg/l 8.1 - Solids 8 Total Alkalinity IS 3025 PART 23 mg/l 106 Not Specified Total Hardness as 9 IS 3025 PART 21 mg/l 111.8 Not Specified CaCO3 10 Calcium as Ca IS 3025 PART 40 mg/l 21.4 Not Specified 11 Magnesium as Mg IS 3025 PART 46 mg/l 14.2 Not Specified 12 Chloride as Cl IS 3025 PART 32 mg/l 79 Not Specified
13 Sulphate as SO4 IS 3025 PART 24 mg/l 31.1 Not Specified 14 Sodium as Na IS 3025 PART 45 mg/l 52 Not Specified 15 Free Ammonia IS 3025 PART 34 mg/l 4.4 -
16 Nitrate as NO3 IS 3025 PART 34 mg/l 14.5 50 17 Potassium as K IS 3025 PART 45 mg/l 11.5 Not Specified 18 Bicarbonate IS 3025 PART 51 mg/l 106 Not Specified 19 Fluoride as F IS3025 PART 60 mg/l 0.4 1.5 Phenolic Compounds 20 IS 3025 PART 43 mg/l Absent 0.005 (as C6H5OH) 21 *Cyanide as CN IS 3025 PART 27 mg/l Absent 0.05 22 *Aluminum as Al IS 3025 PART 2 mg/l BDL(DL: 0.03) Not Specified 23 *Arsenic as As IS 3025 Part 37 mg/l BDL (DL:0.01) 0.2 24 *Cadmium as Cd IS 3025 PART 2 mg/l BDL (DL:0.01) 0.01 25 Chromium as Cr6+ IS 3025 PART 52 mg/l BDL (DL:0.1) 0.05 26 *Copper as Cu IS 3025 PART 2 mg/l BDL (DL:0.2) 1.5 27 *Lead as Pb IS 3025 PART 2 mg/l BDL (DL:0.01) 0.1 28 Manganese as Mn IS 3025 PART 59 mg/l BDL (DL:0.1) Not Specified 29 *Mercury as Hg IS 3025 PART 2 mg/l BDL(DL:0.0005) Not Specified
30 *Zinc as Zn IS 3025 PART 2 mg/l BDL (DL:0.02) 15 31 Iron as Fe IS 3025 PART 53 mg/l 0.22 0.5 32 Dissolved Oxygen IS 3025 PART 38 mg/l BDL (DL:1) Not Specified 33 COD IS 3025 PART 58 mg/l 95.2 Not Specified 34 BOD, 27̊C 3 Days IS 3025 PART44 mg/l 35.6 3 58
CPCB Sl. Test Parameters Test Method Unit SW1 Designated, Best No Use
35 Oil & Grease IS 3025 PART 39 mg/l BDL(DL:5) 0.1 Sodium Absorption 36 IS 11624: 1986 meq/l 4.29 - Ratio 37 Boron IS 3025 PART 57 mg/l BDL(DL:0.01) - 38 Total Phosphorus IS 3025 PART 31 mg/l 0.14 - 39 Total Nitrogen IS 3025 PART 34 mg/l 12.6 - MPN/ 40 *Total Coliform IS 1622-1981 45 500 100ml Source: Environmental baseline monitoring
141. It can be seen from Table 21 that all surface water quality parameters were well within the permissible limit of CPCB. From Table 20 it is clear that the ground water quality parameters were well within the permissible limits for drinking waters as specified by IS 10500:2012 and IS 2296:1992 on project road. Overall, the ground water quality in the project areas is good. The results were compared with CBCB standards for drinking water quality (Appendix 3).
F. Air Quality
142. The ambient air quality was monitored to characterize baseline scenario in the study area and direct project influence area. The study area comprises of rural, residential and urban areas. The sources of air pollution in the region are mainly vehicular traffic, dust arising from unpaved road and domestic fuel burning. The prime objective of the baseline air quality study is to establish the existing ambient air quality along the project road. This will also be useful for impact assessment during the construction and operation phases. In order to establish baseline ambient air quality, monitoring locations were finalized as per notification issued by MOEFCC on 16th November 2009 as to be true representatives of the study area. Further, the locations were selected with the following considerations:
• meteorological conditions; • the assumed regional influences on background air quality; • the areas where impact would most likely be greatest; • present land use along the proposed alignment; and • traffic congestion points.
143. To establish the baseline ambient air quality, Ambient Air Quality (AAQ) monitoring stations were set up at 2 locations as indicated in Table 22.
Table 22: Details of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Locations Sample Location Sl. No Code Coordinates Land Use (Village) Cross Junction, Residential Area 1 AAQ1 10°42'54.5"N 79°15'15.7"E Sadaiyarkovil (Rural) Residential Area 2 AAQ 2 Melaiyur - II 10°40'36.0"N 79°22'24.1"E (Semi Urban) 59
144. At each of the two locations for ambient air monitoring was undertaken in the last quarter of 2019 to represent air quality of the semi-urban and rural habitation area with normal activities and traffic on the project road section monitoring was undertaken in the last quarter of 2019. The sampling was undertaken on a 24-hourly basis. Methodology adopted for sampling and analysis and instrument used for analysis in laboratory are presented in Table 23.
Table 23: Techniques Used for Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Sl. Parameter Technique Instrument Minimum No. Used Detectable Limit(μg/m3) Respirable Dust Sampler Electrical 1. PM 1.0 10 (Gravimetric method) Balance Respirable Dust Sampler Electrical 2. PM 1.0 2.5 (Gravimetric method) Balance Sulphur Improved West & Gaeke 3. Colorimeter 5.0 Dioxide Method Nitrogen Jacob & Hochheiser modified 4. Colorimeter 5.0 Oxide (Na-Arsenite) Method Gas Carbon NDIR Method 5. Chromotograph 0.01 Monoxide
145. A summary of results for each location is presented in Table 24 and presented in Figure 18. These results are compared with the new National Ambient Air Quality Standards prescribed by the by the MOEFCC for respective zones as well as with IFC EHS standards.
Table 24: Summary of AAQM Results along the Project Road Sl. Test NAAQ WBG Test Method Units AAQ1 AAQ2 NO. Parameters Limits Limits Sulphur dioxide IS 5182 Part2: 2001 1 µg/m3 9.7 22.1 80 20 as SO2 (RA 2017) Nitrogen dioxide IS 5182 Part:6: 2006 2 µg/m3 19.4 34.6 80 40 as NO2 (RA 2017)
IS 5182 Part23:2006 3 3 PM10 µg/m 59.6 62.7 100 50 (RA 2017) 3 4 PM2.5 GLCS/SOP/AAQ/017 µg/m 35.3 36.5 60 25 3 5 Ozone as O3 GLCS/SOP/AAQ/002 µg/m 21.2 21.1 180 - IS 5182 Part22:2004 - 6 *Lead as Pb µg/m3 BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) 1 (RA 2009) *Carbon IS 5182 Part10:1999 - 7 mg/m3 BDL(DL:1.15) BDL(DL:1.15) 4 Monoxide as CO (RA 2009) Ammonia as - 8 GLCS/SOP/AAQ/001 µg/m3 18.4 26.3 400 NH3 *Benzene as C6 IS 5182 Part11:2006 - 9 ng/m3 BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) 5 H6 (RA 2017) *Benzo(a)Pyrene IS 5182 Part23:2006 - 10 ng/m3 BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) 1 as BaP (RA 2014) IS 5182 Part22:2004 - 11 *Arsenic as As ng/m3 BDL(DL:1.0) BDL(DL:1.0) 6 (RA 2009) IS 5182 Part22:2004 - 12 *Nickel as Ni ng/m3 BDL(DL:1.0) BDL(DL:1.0) 20 (RA 2009) 60
Sl. Test NAAQ WBG Test Method Units AAQ1 AAQ2 NO. Parameters Limits Limits IS 5182 Part17:1979 13 * Hydrocarbon PPM BDL(DL:0.01) BDL(DL:0.01) - - (RA 2009) *Hydrogen IS 5182 Part13:1991 14 PPM BDL(DL:0.02) BDL(DL:0.02) - - Fluoride (RA 2009) Source: Air Quality Monitoring carried out in the month of Nov-December 2019.
Figure 18: Summary of Ambient Air Quality Results
70 62.7 59.6 60
50
40 35.3 34.6 36.5
30 22.1 19.4 20 9.7 10
0 AAQ1 AAQ2
Sulphur dioxide as SO2 Nitrogen dioxide as NO2 PM10 PM2.5
146. The monitored values are compared with National Ambient Air Quality Standards prescribed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) as well as by IFC EHS standards for residential, rural and other areas.
• PM2.5: The mean PM2.5 concentration at ambient air quality monitoring locations varies from 35.5 to 36.5 µg/m3. The values are within the permissible limit at all the stations. The values are within the CPCB permissible limit of 60 µg/m3at all the stations but exceed the IFC EHS limit of 25 µg/m3 at both the locations. • PM10: The mean PM10 concentration at ambient air quality monitoring locations varies from 59.6 to 62.7 µg/m3. The values are within the permissible limit at all the stations. The values are within the CPCB permissible limit 100 µg/m3at all the stations but exceed the IFC EHS limit of 50 µg/m3 at both the locations • SO2: The mean concentrations of SO2 at all ambient air quality monitoring locations varies from 9.7 to 22.1 µg/m3. The values are within the permissible limit at all the stations. The values are within the CPCB permissible limit at all the stations but exceeds the IFC EHS limit of 20 µg/m3 at AAQ2 location. • NOx: The mean concentrations of NOx at all AAQM locations range from 19.4 to 34.6 µg/m3. The values are within the permissible limit at all the stations. The values are within the CPCB permissible limit as well as IFC EHS limit of 40 µg/m3 at both the locations. 61
• CO: The mean concentrations of CO at all AAQM locations were below the detectable limit of instrument (1.15 mg/m3). The values are within the permissible limit at all the Stations.
147. All the air quality parameters monitored along the alignment was with in permissible limit of NAAQS prescribed by MOEFCC and IFC EHS air quality standards. However, PM2.5, PM10 and SO2 levels are exceeded the IFC EHS standards. The National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) prescribed by MOEFCC are given in Appendix 4.
G. Noise Level
148. Noise in general is a sound which is composed of many frequency components of different loudness distributed over the audible frequency range. Noise in the project area was assessed using the GoI and IFC EHS noise guide values which are similar for day and nighttime residential and nighttime industrial land uses. The GoI is more stringent in commercial land use while the IFC EHS is less stringent for daytime noise for industrial land use. The IFC EHS does not provide guide values for silent zone which is defined as at least 100-meter perimeter around hospitals, educational institutions, courts, religious places and similar area. GoI standards when the existing noise levels already exceed the limits. IFC-EHS provides a 3 dB maximum increase from the background (i.e. doubling of noise levels) when the existing measure noise already exceeds the standards. GoI does not stipulate clear guidelines for such scenarios.
149. A preliminary reconnaissance survey was undertaken in project road to identify the major noise generating sources along the project road. The selected monitoring locations are representative of sensitive receptors in semi-urban area and residential from rural area. The noise level at the monitoring locations is generated from routine human activities and traffic on the road section in semi-urban and rural area. The first location (N1) is a cross junction of project road and a village road is within a residential area with less traffic and normal activities in rural area. While N3 location is in a semi-urban area where traffic flow is higher than N1 location and there are some commercial activities of market and repair workshops. The location is near to Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary is selected to represent the background noise level from vehicular movement on the project road near the protected area.
150. A total of 3 locations within the study area were selected for noise level measurements in the project road. The locations of noise level measurement are given in Table 25.
Table 25: Details of Noise Level Monitoring Locations Sl. Sample Location Land Use Code Coordinates No (Village) Cross Junction 10°42'54.5"N Residential Area 1 N1 Sadaiyarkovil 79°15'15.7"E (Rural) Residential Vaduvoor Bird 2 N2 10°41'54.0"N Area/Rural (Silent Sanctuary 79°19'22.0"E Zone) 10°40'36.0"N Residential Area 3 N3 Melaiyur - II 79°22'24.1"E (Semi Urban)
151. Methodology: At each of the selected locations, Sound Pressure Level (SPL) measurements were taken at an interval of 1 minute using a sound level meter of Lutron make Digital Sound Level Meter. At all these locations, daytime noise levels were monitored during the period 6 am to 9 pm and night-time noise levels during the period 9 pm to 6 am following national 62
guidelines. Noise readings, with setting at ‘A’ response - slow mode, were recorded. The readings were tabulated and a frequency distribution table prepared from which 24-hourly, hourly, and average Leq noise levels were calculated. The baseline values were recomputed to align them with IFC EHS prescribed periods, which is 7am to 10pm for daytime and 10pm to 7am for nighttime.
152. Presentation of Results: It can be seen from the Table 26 that at all the monitoring locations, equivalent ambient noise levels exceed the permissible limits for residential areas prescribed by CPCB and also by IFC EHS standards of 55 dB(A) and 45 dB(A) for daytime and night time respectively, except for N2 for night time. The maximum recorded day time noise level is 59.8dB(A) and night time noise level is 53.5 dB(A) along the project alignment.
Table 26: Ambient Noise Level in decibel (A) along the Project Road per IFC EHS Prescribed Periods for Daytime and Nighttime CPCB WB/ IFC Monitoring Monitoring Standard Standard Leq L10 L50 L90 Leq (dn) Location Duration for for residential residential Day 63.12 64.78 62.7 58.32 55 55 NL1 62 Night 54.43 54.24 53.3 51.66 45 45 Day 62.79 65.88 60.7 57.92 55 55 NL2 61 Night 47.28 46.64 45.3 44.36 45 45 Day 65.86 67.47 66 60.72 55 55 NL3 64 Night 56.64 56.24 55.1 53.46 45 45 Source: Noise Monitoring carried out in the month of Nov-December 2019.
H. Coastal and Marine Resources in Project Influence Area
153. In 1991, the Coastal Zone Regulation notification was issued by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests to protect the 500 meters zone from the high tide line and along rivers and creeks up to the area of tidal action. CRZ Notification 1991 has been amended in 2011. Based on this, the project road does not fall under CRZ.
I. Biological Environment
I.1 Forests
154. The recorded forest area in Tamil Nadu is 22,877 km2 which constitutes 17.59% of the geographical area of the state. Reserved Forests comprise 88.70%, Protected Forests 7.79% and Unclassified Forests constitute 3.51%. The forest cover in project districts is presented in Table 27 and Figure 19 which shows that project districts have good forest cover having all classes of forest. The RoW of the project road does not fall under any forest area and thus does not attract forest land diversion.
63
Table 27: Forest Cover in Project Districts (Km2) District Geographical Area (GA) VDF MDF OF Total % of GA Thanjavur 3411 0 249 107 356 10.44 Thiruvarur 2274 0 38 47 85 3.74 TN State 130060 3672 10979 11630 26281 20.21 VDF: Very Dense Forest, MDF: Moderately Dense Forest, OF: Open Forest
Figure 19: Forest Cover Map of Tamil Nadu Showing Project Road
Source: India State of Forest Report, 2017 64
I.2 Protected Area
155. There is no protected area (National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary, Reserved Forest, Biosphere Reserve, Wetland) directly falling within the proposed RoW of project road but the road borders the Vaduvoor Birds Sanctuary. The detail of the Project stretch falling within 0.500 km radius (uniform) around the ESZ boundary of the Vaduvoor Birds Sanctuary is shown in Table 28.
Table 28: Protected Area along Project Road S. No. Protected Area Distance from road District
Vaduvoor Birds Along the road between Km 15+250 to Km 1 Tiruvarur Sanctuary 17+100 on LHS
a. Vaduvoor Birds Sanctuary (VBS)
156. Vaduvoor Birds Sanctuary is spread over an area of 1.281 Square Kilometers (128.10ha) and situated in Needamangalam Taluk of Thiruvarur District in the State of Tamil Nadu. An irrigation tank maintained by Public Works Department was declared as Bird Sanctuary in 1999 (G.O. Ms.No.169 Environment and Forests Department dated: 22-07- 1999) for the conservation of avian fauna that inhabit the water body. It is a man-made irrigation tank that has been attracting both migrant and resident water birds. The various functions being provided by this wetland for the water birds namely foraging, wintering, breeding and roosting have been documented through one-year brief ecological study undertaken by the Bombay Natural History Society.
157. The environmental expert team visited the VBS in November 2019 and February 2020 to get the information about the sanctuary. The sanctuary has no natural forest habitat within it. Dominant floral species is Acacia nilotica along with and other native species like Ziziphus indica, Pongamia pinnata etc. which attract large numbers of heronry birds to nest and roost.
158. Every year the sanctuary attracts more than 50 species of water birds from September to February. The birds visit the sanctuary tank for feeding before getting back to their breeding places in north. In the first half of the migratory period, i.e. from October to December population of smaller birds like teals and ducks is high due to higher water level. As water starts receding from December onwards, larger birds like painted storks, Open bill storks etc., congregate in the sanctuary. Examples of various birds are Little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollius), Grey heron (Ardea cinerea), Open bill stork (Anastomus oscitans), Spot-bill duck (Anas poecilorhyncha), Pheasant- tailed jacana (Hydrophasinnus chirurgus), Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus), Indian Plaintive Cuckoo (Cacomantis passerinus) etc.
159. Besides, sanctuary also has some species of butterflies, insects, reptiles, amphibians, mammals. Examples of butterflies are Blue Pansy (Junonia orithya), common rose (Colotis danae), gram blue (Euchrysops cnejus), Tiny Grass Blue (Zizula hylax) etc.; examples of amphibians are Common Indian Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus), Skipper Frog (Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis), common tree Frog (Polypedatus maculatus) etc.; Examples of mammals are Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus), Indian Grey Mongoose (Herpestes edwardsii), etc.
160. VBS is located along project road on LHS between km 15+800 to km 16+700. The project road is only at 30m from the protected area boundary of VBS. The Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around the sanctuary is 0.5 km (uniform), as per MOEFCC Notification No. S.O.3306(E) dated 13 September 2019. Considering this, a total of 1.85 km length (from km 15.250 to km 17.100) of the 65 project is located in eco-sensitive zone of VBS. Thus, recommendations for wildlife clearance from NBWL generally apply here and shall be obtained for VBS protected area for project falling within ESZ of VBS, unless clear exemption is obtained from concerned authority. The map showing protected area of VBS and the 0.5 km proposed Eco-sensitive zone boundary of VBS on the proposed road project is presented in Figure 20 and Figure 21.
Figure 20: Layout of VBS along SH-63
Project Road
Source: From office of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary 66
Figure 21: Map Showing Protected Area and Proposed ESZ of VBS
Source: MOEFCC Notification No. S.O.3306(E) dated 13th September 2019
67
Figure 22: Sanctuary Area and ESZ boundary on Google Map
Source: MOEFCC Notification No. S.O.3306(E) dated 13th September 2019 68
I.3 Flora
161. The roadside trees falling within formation width of project road have been enumerated as per the available design. The tree enumeration details of trees>30cm girth size along project road are provided in Table 29. The roadside trees are continuous throughout the corridor except some stretches where open land/agricultural land are observed. The trees are generally having good canopy as observed during environmental field survey. Every effort has been made by engineering and environmental team to save these trees. There is no green tunnel along the project road.
162. As observed from above tree details, a total of 1,174 trees >30cm girth size (556 on LHS and 618 on RHS) fall within formation width of project road, which will be affected due to road widening. Also, tree enumeration has been done for trees<30cm. A total of 444 trees <30cm girth size (220 on LHS and 224 on RHS) fall within formation width of the project road. The detail of the impacted trees is provided in Appendix 5.
Table 29: Tree Species Within Formation Width (>30cm) Number of tree in COI Sl.No. Local Name of Tree Scientific Name of Tree LHS RHS 1 Banyan Ficus benghalensis 21 15 2 Coconut Cocus nicifera 10 10 3 Eecham Phoenix pusilla 1 10 4 Jamun Syzigiumcumunii 14 16 5 Kattu Annona squamosa 36 42 6 Konnai Cassia fistula 1 0 7 Mango Mangifera indica 42 46 8 Neem Azadirachta indica 29 23 9 Oothi Delonix regia 1 0 10 Peepal Ficus religiosa 1 1 11 Pongamia Pongamia pinnata 50 40 12 Siris Albizia lebbeck 7 9 13 Tadi Borassus flabellifer 136 233 14 Tamarind Tamarindus indica 202 158 15 Karuvelam Acacia arabica 1 0 16 Punnai Calophyllum inophyllum 1 0 17 Thungu Samanea saman 1 7 18 Alstonia scholaris 1 4 19 Teak Tectona grandis Linn. 0 2 20 Jack Fruit Artocarpus heterophyllus 0 2 21 Others 2 0 Total 556 618 Source: DPR
I.4 Vegetation and Flora of the Project Area
163. In order to establish baseline data on the presence of important floral habitats in the project area, field surveys (sampling of flora species and consultations with local forestry officials and communities) for biodiversity assessment. Local forest department was consulted to know the 69 presence of any endangered and protected species of flora within the formation width. main findings of the vegetation study are summarised herewith.
164. The dominant tree species along project road are Neem, Babool, Gulmohar and Banyan. No tree along roadside fall in CITES list of plants. The details of floral species in the project area are mentioned in Table-30.
Table 30: Floral Species Recorded in the Project Area S.No. Scientific Name Common Name Trees 1. Acacia nilotica (L.) Del. indica Egyptian Thorn 2 Acacia polyacantha willd White-stem Thorn 3 Annona squamosa L. Sugar Apple 4 Achras sapota Sapota 5 Bauhinia purpurea L. Orchid Tree 6 Borassus flabellifer Palm 7 Carica papaya L. Papaya 8 Chloroxylon swietienia DC. Indian Satinwood Tree 9 Citrus aurantifolia Lime 10 Cleistanthus collinus (Roxb) Benth Garrar 11 Cocos nucifera Coconut 12 Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight&Arn. Acacia 13 Ficus racemosa Roxb Indian Macaque 14 Ficus religiosa L Peepal 15 Hibiscus tiliaceus L. Sea Hibiscus 16 Holoptelea integrifolia (Roxb) Planchon Jungle Cork Tree 17 Lannaea coromandelica Indian Ash Tree 18 Madhuca longifolia Indian butter Tree 19 Mangifera indica L. Mango 20 Polyalthia longifolia Indian Fir Tree 21 Psidium guajava L Guava 22 Spathodea campanulata African Tulip Tree 23 Tamarindus indica Tamarind 24 Tecoma stans Yellow Elder 25 Terminalia arjuna Arjun Tree 26 Thespesia populnea Portia Tree 27 Thevetia peruviana Yellow Oleander 28 Wrightia tinctoria Pala indigo plant 29 Zizyphus jujube mill Jujube. 30 Polyalthia longifolia Ashoka Tree 31 Toona ciliata Toon Tree Shrub 32 Abutilon indicum (L.). ssp. Indicum Thutthi 33 Bambusaarundinacea Bamboo 34 Borreria ocymoides Purple-Leaf Button Weed 35 Cassia auriculata L. Aavaram 36 Cleome viscosa L Sticky spider flower 37 Crotalaria verrucosa L. Rattlepod 38 Datura metel L. Devil's trumpet 39 Euphorbia antiquorrum L. Indian spurge tree 70
S.No. Scientific Name Common Name 40 Gmelina asiatica Asian Bushbeech 41 Hibiscus rosa sinensis L Hibiscus 42 Lawsonia inermis L. Henna 43 Passiflora foetida L. Wild maracuja 44 Pavonia procumbens Prostate swamp mallow 45 Phragmites karka Tall Reed 46 Phyllanthus debilis Gulf leaf flower 47 Ricinus communis L. Castor
I.5 Fauna/Wildlife
a. Assessment of Fauna along the Project Road
165. In order to establish baseline data on the presence of important wildlife and faunal habitats in the project area, a biodiversity assessment has been carried using field surveys (walkthrough surveys and consultations with local forestry and wildlife officials and local communities). The main findings of this wildlife study are summarized herewith.
166. Altogether 14 species of birds were observed during the wildlife survey in study area (DMU) along the road alignment. 12 out of 14 birds were spotted in water reservoir area. All the species recorded in the study area were belong to water birds. The birds observed in the study area are given in below Table 31.
Table 31: Birds Species Observed in DMU Established in PAI for Field Survey S. Common Name Scientific Location Remarks No. Name Spot Number 1 Great White Egret Casmerodius Spot No.-1& 2 albus
2 Little Egret Egretta garzetta
3 Common Teal Anas crecca
4 Ruff Philomachus pugnax
5 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula
6 Knob-billed Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos
7 Common Coot Fulica atra
71
S. Common Name Scientific Location Remarks No. Name Spot Number
8 Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata Spot No. 1&2
9 Asian Openbill- Anastomus Stork oscitans
10 Black Ibis Pseudibis
papillosa Northern Shoveller
11 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea
12 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Asian Openbill-Stork
Great Cormorant 13 Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax Spot No.-3 niger
14 Median Egret Mesophoyx Spot No. -4 intermedia
Source: Field survey along proposed road section alignment in VBS area 72
167. The bird species were observed on trees in wetland resting, roosting, feeding and breeding. Flying birds were also noted in the area. During daytime the number is less, as most of birds out in search of food in different directions in agriculture fields. A few numbers of bird were seen in the agriculture fields near the protected area and this was also confirmed by villagers. This behaviour may be due to less chances of getting food with frequent visit birds in the nearby area.
168. Threatened Species: Based on field survey and consultation with stakeholder it is confirmed that in PAI for the road section is habitat for six migratory bird species. The protected area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary is supporting large number of avifaunal species for major lifecycle activities of migratory birds. The list of threatened species present or visiting the area is given Table 32.
Table 32: Birds Species in Project Affected Area Listed in IUCN Red List and Wildlife Protection (Act) 1972 S. No. Common Name Scientific Name Family IUCN Status
1 Common Pochard Aythya ferina Anatidae Vulnerable 2 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea Scolopacidae Near Threatened 3 Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster Anhingidae Near Threatened 4 Oriental White Ibis Threskiornis Threskiornithi Near Threatened melanocephalus dae 5 Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala Ciconiidae Near Threatened 6 Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis Pelecanidae Near Threatened
169. Fishes: There is Vennaru river, a tributary of Cauvery river in the vicinity of proposed road section alignment. There are fish species reported in the project area which include anguilla – bicolor, Brachyura, Bramidae, Catla Catla, Centropristis striata, Engraulidae, Gadus, Lutjanus fulviflammus, Pseudeutropius atherinoides, Pseudorhombus arsius, Rastrelliger kanagurta, Sardina pilchardus, Sepiida, Seriola lalandi and Siluriformes. There are no fish species of globally threatened list reported from the water bodies of the area.
b. Consultations of Wildlife/Avian Experts and Sanctuary Officials
170. Officials from Bird Sanctuary Forest division Thiruvarur including District Forest Officer and Range Officer were also consulted in the process. The bird census data and details of habitat within the notified area was informed by Forest Officials.
171. Office of District Forest, Thiruvarur informed that there is no specific pattern on bird movement corridors and migratory routes along project road section. Mainly bird habitat is limited to Sanctuary area with water level and trees required for nesting, which is away from the road alignment inside the water of the sanctuary. Seasonal migration and local birds were reported from the bird sanctuary area. Local communities informed that there is no hunting and accident of birds with vehicles in the area.
172. Informal interviews were held with the local villagers, livestock herders to gather information on the status of birds and their habitats. Information on migratory bird period, crop damage by birds, incidences of road accidents involving birds were also collected during informal interviews.
73
Image: Discussion with DFO, Tiruvarur Image: Discussion with RO, Mannargudi at VBS
Image: Water reservoir in VBS Image: The birds in VBS
Image: Water birds in VBS Image: Nesting birds in VBS
c. The Avifaunal Species in VBS
173. VBS adjacent to the Corridor of Impact has recorded 54 species of avian fauna, including rare migratory birds that visiting and roosts in this sanctuary and certain species are hatching eggs. About 40,000 birds are visiting this bird sanctuary annually. This sanctuary is an important bird sanctuary for ornithologist, bird watchers and researchers. Examples of various birds are Little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollius), Grey heron (Ardea cinerea), Open bill stork (Anastomus oscitans), Spot-bill duck (Anas poecilorhyncha), Pheasant-tailed jacana (Hydrophasinnus 74
chirurgus), Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus), Indian Plaintive Cuckoo (Cacomantis passerinus) etc. The sanctuary also has some species of butterflies, insects, reptiles, amphibians, mammals. Examples of butterflies are Blue Pansy (Junonia orithya), common rose (Colotis danae), gram blue (Euchrysops cnejus), Tiny Grass Blue (Zizula hylax) etc.; examples of amphibians are Common Indian Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus), Skipper Frog (Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis), common tree Frog (Polypedatus maculatus) etc.; Examples of mammals are Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus), Indian Grey Mongoose (Herpestes edwardsii), etc.
174. The census of avifauna including land and aquatic birds recorded in protected area of VBS has been conducted by Forest Department during February 2019. There were 61 species recorded total number of 1203 land birds for day one of the study and total 793 number of birds of 58 species were recorded during second day of the study. The census data of water bird is count of 22,484 representing 53 species on first day and 24,030 from 53 species during second day of the study. The details of bird census is presented in Annex-6 of Appendix 6.
d. Migratory Route
175. India lies along the Central Asian Flyway, a global migratory pathway that connects the Palearctic (Europe and Northern Asia) to the Indian subcontinent. The birds that utilize this flyway congregate at key water bodies around India. The project site is located along the Central Asian Flyway. The flyway is also important for migratory waders, with arctic-breeding species travelling from northern and central Siberia to winter in South Asia, principally along the east coast of India. The protected Vaduvoor Lake is also an important water reservoir utilized by migratory birds for their flyway.
I.6 Critical Habitat Assessment
176. A full Critical Habitat Assessment was done on the project road using a single simple Area of Analysis (AoA) to assess risks. AoA covers the project road and a 1 km buffer to capture of significant biodiversity impacts such as edge effects, disturbance by construction workers, and noise/dust/pollution impacts during construction.
177. The critical habitat assessment was done in accordance with IFC Performance Standard 6 and its accompanying guidance note (IFC 2012, 2019). This assessment identified the AoA to be possible or actual Critical Habitat for the black-headed ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) and one internationally recognized site, the VBS (Table 33). More extensive details of why each feature meets Critical Habitat criteria are given in the Critical Habitat Assessment attached to the Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) in Appendix 16. This BAP was prepared to assess impacts on critical habitat and critical habitat qualifying species within the project area of influence. Mitigation measures identified in the BAP are included in Chapter V. Natural habitat assessment determined the Project to be situated largely or entirely within Modified Habitat (Figure 22).
75
Table 33: Birds Species in Project Affected area Listed in IUCN Red List and Wildlife Protection (Act) 1972 Biodiversity Species Critical Habitat Justification type criterion qualified5 1 2 3 4 5 6 1. Bird Black-headed Ibis Supports >1% of the global Threskiornis population of this migratory and melanocephalus congregatory species. 2. Site Vaduvoor Lake Bird Qualifies as an IBA/KBA because Sanctuary Important Bird it supports >1% of the global Area population of the migratory and congregatory Black-headed Ibis.
5 = likely to qualify area as Critical Habitat; ? = possibly qualifies area as Critical Habitat. Both based on available information. 76
Figure 23: Map of Project Area, Showing Locations of Area of Analysis, Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary/Important Bird Area, and Land Use/Land Cover in Relation to the Existing Road. All Terrestrial Areas are Considered to be Modified Habitat 77
J. Socio-economic Environment
a. Demography
178. The project road falls within two districts of Tamil Nadu state, Thanjavur and Thiruvarur.
179. As per 2011 census, Thanjavur has population of 2,405,890 of which male and female are 1,182,416 and 1,223,474, respectively. Average literacy rate of district in 2011 is 82.64% compared to 75.45% of 2001. If things are looked out at gender wise, male literacy rate (89.04%) is more than male literacy rate (76.50%). With regards to sex ratio, it stood at 1035 per 1000 male compared to 2001 census figure of 1021. The average national sex ratio in India is 926 as per latest reports of Census 2011 Directorate. Children under 0–6 formed 9.92% of the district with almost equal distribution of male and female child.
180. As per 2011, Thiruvarur has population of 1,264,277 of which male and female are 626,693 and 637,584; respectively. Average literacy rate in 2011 is 82.86% compared to 76.58% of 2001. If things are looked out at gender wise, male and female literacy are 89.13% and 76.72 % respectively. With regards to sex ratio in the district, it stood at 1017 per 1000 male in 2011 as compared to 2001 census figure of 1014. In 2011, Children under 0-6 formed 9.65 % of the district compared to 11.98% of 2001. The demographic details of the project districts are shown in Table 34.
Table 34: Demographic Features of Project Districts Parameter Thanjavur Thiruvarur Total Population 2405890 1264277 Male population 1182416 626693 Female Population 1223474 637584 Sex Ratio (Per 1000) 1035 1017 Literacy rate (%) 82.64 82.86 Male Literacy Rate (%) 89.04 89.13 Female Literacy Rate (%) 76.5 76.72 Population Density 705 556 Population Growth Rate (%) 0.0856 0.0811 Scheduled Castes Population 455062 430927 SC Male 225859 214717 SC Female 229203 216210 Scheduled Tribes Population 3561 3034 Male ST 1739 1466 Female ST 1822 1568 Child Population 238598 121973 Male Population 0-6 121949 62280 Female Population 0-6 116649 59693 Occupational Pattern Working Population 974079 540168 No. of Agriculture labour 327673 200126 Main Working Population 834484 412425 Non-Working Population 1431811 724109 78
Parameter Thanjavur Thiruvarur Household Industries 26430 7264 Source: http://www.census2011.co.in/census
b. Economic Development
181. The economy of Tamil Nadu has grown steadily from a plan allocation of about ₹280 billion during 2012–2013, to about ₹606 billion during 2016–2017. The plan expenditure has grown by over 20% per annum during this period. Gross state domestic product and net state domestic product have been growing at over 10% from 2011–2012 to 2016–2017, though there is an expectation in the budget for 2017–2018 that these may drop below 10% in view of the impact of demonetization and introduction of the goods and services tax regime. From 2017–2018, the concept of plan and non-plan expenditure is no longer followed, and a substitute measure could be the capital expenditure as a proportion of the budget. The state budget mentions that it is paying special attention to capital expenditure. The allocation for capital expenditure is about 15% of the total budget expenditure for 2017–2018.
c. Agriculture
182. Agriculture plays a vital role in the State’s economy. The major source of economy along the project road is agriculture and livestock.
183. Rice is the major crop grown in the project area. Cash crops such as cotton, groundnut, pulses and vegetables are also grown in the project region. The important food crops are paddy, bajra, ragi, maize and other minor millets.
d. Archaeological and Historical Monuments
184. Road survey during DPR and preparation of this report revealed that there are no archaeological or historical monuments or physical cultural resources present along the road. No archaeological sites or historical monuments of state importance notified under Ancient and Historical Monument and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1966 of Tamil Nadu nor of national importance notified under The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act 1958 of India are located along the project road section.
e. Sensitive Receptors
185. During the environmental and social screening survey, number of sensitive receptors such as school, temple etc. located along the alignment are identified.
186. There are important community structures along the project road, which have cultural and sociological importance. The details of common property resources and sensitive receptors impacted along the project road are as detailed in Table 35. These sensitive features along the road will be updated following the finalization of the resettlement plan by TNHD and the final detailed engineering design by the EPC contractor of the project road.
79
Table 35: Physical/Sensitive Features along the Project Road Distance Existing from edge Sl. Chainage of existing Structure Settlement RHS/LHS No (Km) carriageway (m) List of Ponds/Water tanks/Taps 1 2+950 8 Pond Vandaiyariruppu RHS 2 3+250 2 WaterTank Katoor RHS 3 4+850 4 Pond Kattoor LHS 4 5+600 4 Pond Vandaiyariruppu RHS 5 6+000 1.5 Tap Vandaiyariruppu RHS 6 8+500 2.2 Tap Ragavambalpuram LHS 7 15+800 5 Lake Vaduvoor LHS 8 17+600 5 Pond Near Vaduvoor LHS List of Religious Structures (Sensitive Receptors) 1 2+200 2 Temple Katoor LHS 2 12+950 4.2 Temple Moorthyyammalpu LHS 3 16+712 7 Temple Vaduvur LHS List of Educational Institutes (Sensitive Receptors) 1 5+700 5 School Vandaiyariruppu LHS Other Common Property Resources (CPRs) 1 5+200 2 Bus Stop Vandaiyariruppu RHS 2 5+400 2 Bus Stop Vandaiyariruppu RHS 3 5+900 2 Bus Stop Vandaiyariruppu RHS 4 7+750 1.5 Bus Stop Vandaiyariruppu RHS 5 9+000 2.2 Bus Stop Ragavambalpuram RHS 6 10+200 4.5 Bus Stop Ragavambalpuram RHS 7 13+050 2.5 Bus Stop Neivasal RHS 8 14+000 2.5 Bus Stop Neivasal RHS 9 14+500 2.5 Bus Stop Neivasal RHS 10 12+950 2.5 Public Toilet Moorthyyammalpura LHS 11 5+260 1.5 Donation Box Vandaiyariruppu LHS 12 1+580 7.5 Petrol Pump Vilar LHS 13 6+200 7.5 Petrol Pump Vandaiyariruppu RHS Source: Field inventory carried out by the DPR Consultant Team, 2014 (the approx. distance is taken from edge of the existing road)
80
V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
A. Introduction
187. This chapter presents key environmental issues associated with various aspects of the proposed project. The environmental impacts caused due to the development of the project road section were assessed on the bases of nature, extent and magnitude of likely changes due to project activities during all stages of the project cycle, i.e. preconstruction, construction and operation. Potential cumulative and induced impacts were also considered. Beneficial impacts are mostly long-term and permanent whereas adverse impacts are localized and temporary in nature and are likely to occur mostly during construction stage.
188. The methodology of assessing environmental impacts from the project entailed clearly identifying the environmental components that will be impacted, type of impacts, assessment area where the impacts will be felt and defining the criteria for assessing the significance of each type of impact. After defining these aspects, a screening of project impacts during design and preconstruction, construction and operation stages of the project was carried out to identify the minor, moderate and major impacts to guide development of mitigation measures and ensure that there are no or minimal residual impacts.
189. Identification of impacts: This includes identifying the valued environmental components (VEC) of the physical, biological, and human environments that are at risk of being impacted by the project. The VECs for this project which are based on the environmental baseline are:
a. Physical environment: air quality and greenhouse gas emissions, land and soil, and groundwater quality and quantity b. Biological environment: terrestrial and aquatic vegetation, mammals, avifauna, and ecologically important areas c. Human environment: private land and buildings, public infrastructure including utility structures, noise and vibration levels, cultural/heritage buildings, and occupational health and safety for the construction workers and local community living within the vicinity of the project area.
190. Type of impact on the VECs: The type of impact can be described as:
a. Positive: Improvement in the quality of the VECs because of the project b. Negative: Degradation or reduction in the quality of the VECs because of the project c. Neutral: No noticeable change in VECs
191. Area of impact assessment: The area covered for assessing direct impacts include:
a. The right of way of project road section is taken as 16 meters for urban stretches, 23 meters for rural areas, and 30 meters for bypasses 30m corridor. This includes 10m on either side studied for direct impacts. b. Project area of influence is defined as ROW plus 500m on either side c. In addition, a 10 km buffer was studied for indirect impacts. Other indirect impact area covers location of quarries; borrow areas, storage area of construction material etc. 81
192. Significance of impacts: The assessment of the significance of the impacts on the VECs requires understanding the sensitivity of each VEC within the project context, the duration of impact, area of impact and severity of impact as follow:
(i) Sensitivity of VEC: The sensitivity of a VEC can be determined by the existing conditions of the VEC within the project area and existence of important VECs within the project areas. Sensitivity of each VEC is described as high, medium or low as described below.
a. Low: No environmentally important areas (such as protected areas, natural or critical habitat areas, heritage sites, places of worship etc.) are located within the direct and indirect impact zone. The quality of existing conditions of VECs is good or fair; b. Medium: There are one or more environmentally important areas within the indirect impact zone of the project area. The quality of existing conditions of VECs is good or fair; and c. High: There are one or more environmentally important areas within the direct impact zone of the project area. The quality of existing conditions of the VECs is poor or degraded (such as poor air quality, high noise levels, poor water quality) which makes the VEC highly susceptible to further deterioration.
193. Based on baseline conditions in the project area and sensitivity criteria, the level of sensitivity of each VEC is provided in Table 36.
Table 36: Sensitivity of VECs in the Project Area Sensitivity VEC Remarks Level Physical environment Air quality Medium The overall air quality in the project area is average, permissible levels are exceeded for the monitored parameters. However, the project passes through a habitation area. GHG emissions Medium Firewood burning is the major contributor in the ambient pollution load. Vehicular pollution is a secondary source of pollution in the state as the traffic density is average. Surface water quality Medium Overall, the surface water quality in the project area is good, permissible levels are not exceeded for the monitored parameters. Irrigation Canal and Vaduvoor water reservoir are main water bodies in CoI of the project. Surface water quantity Low The project area has sources of water potential both ground as well as surface water. Ground water quality Low Overall, the ground water quality in the project area is good, permissible levels are not exceeded for the monitored parameters. Ground water quantity Low Since the project area has good surface water resources the project will have sufficient sources of water for construction and groundwater abstraction will be negligible if needed at all.
82
Sensitivity VEC Remarks Level Land degradation and Low There is no forest along the project road section, pollution land use mainly agriculture and built-up. Land degradation and pollution is low. Biological environment Trees, terrestrial and Medium The project passes through ESZ of a notified Bird aquatic vegetation Sanctuary area. However, the forest department has confirmed that there are no endangered flora species which are likely to be affected by the proposed project. Fauna (mammals, High About 1.85km length of the road section is birds, fishes, reptiles, located within Eco-sensitive Zone of VBS. The amphibians) Sanctuary is habitat for seasonal migratory birds mainly from November-February. There are no endangered species reported from the protected area. Ecologically important High The project is located in the Eco- Sensitive Zone areas (ESZ) of VBS. Social environment Private land and Medium There are settlements along the project road buildings section. There will be land acquisition at the location of realignment and curve improvement, mainly at 3 realignment locations. Public property/ Medium The ROW is available for widening or even infrastructure/ utility minimum improvement of road geometry, except structures at few location. Impact on utility structures is expected due to shifting from current location. Noise Medium Existing noise levels are slightly higher than the permissible limits for residential area in both daytime and night time. Modelling has shown the expected increase in noise will be above allowable limits of 3dB. Vibration Low The residential structures are located away from CoI, however the construction activity may lead to damage/cracks in overhead water storage tank located along the alignment. Occupational health Medium Traffic density at the existing road is average and and safety will increase as economic activities increase in the project area. Public health and Medium Influx of workers during construction and the safety construction activities may pose risks to communities along the project road and ancillary sites. The expected increase in traffic during operation stage potentially leads to an increase in unsafe situations. Physical cultural Medium There are no adverse impacts anticipated on resources (PCR) historical places/monuments. However, there are few small shrines along the road. 83
(ii) Duration of the impact: Duration means the time dimension of the impact on the VECs. The terms permanent, temporary and short-loved are used to describe the duration of impact:
a. Short-lived: The impact is limited to particular activity/ies or phase/s of the project lifecycle b. Temporary: The impact is felt during one project activity or, at most, during the construction period of the project c. Permanent: The impacts are felt throughout the life of the infrastructure
194. Area of impact: The area of impact entails the spatial scale of impact on one or more of the VECs. The terms regional, local and limited are used to describe the area of impact: a. Limited: The impact is felt within the corridor of impact b. Local: The impact is felt within the project area of influence c. Regional: The impact is felt beyond the project area of influence but within the 10 km buffer
(iii) Severity of impact. The severity or seriousness of an impact entails understanding the repercussion or risks posed by the impact. This is a subjective criterion, which is defined as high, medium or low as below:
a. High: The severity of impact is high if grave repercussions are expected as a result of the impact due to any of the following or similar situations: the impact will be felt by a large number of people or receptors; the receptors are highly sensitive; the impacts will cause serious health issues; there is already a history of complaints from the project area and people have raised significant concerns during public consultation; some of the VEC in the project area already severely degraded and maybe further worsened by the project; there will be a significant change in one or more VEC because of the project b. Medium: The severity of impact is medium due to any of the following or similar situations: the impact will be felt by a small number of people; some receptors are affected but they are not sensitive; the impact will not cause serious health issues; some concerns were raised during public consultations, but they were not significant; there will be minor changes in one or more VEC because of the project c. Low: The severity of impact is low due to any of the following or similar situations: the impact will not be felt by anyone; no or limited receptors are affected; no concerns were raised during public consultations; there will be no noticeable changes in one or more VEC because of the project.
195. Based on the rating of duration, area and severity of impact as described above the overall significance of each impact as major, moderate or minor was determined as demonstrated in Table 37 below.
84
Table 37: Criteria for Rating the Significance of Impacts Significance Sensitivity Duration Area Severity Minor Medium or Low Short lived or Limited or local Low temporary or regional Low Permanent Limited low Moderate High or Medium Temporary Limited or local Medium or regional Medium permanent Limited Medium Major High Permanent or Limited or local High temporary or regional High or Medium Permanent Local or Medium regional
B. Screening of Impacts
196. Based on the rating criteria provided in Table 37, environmental impacts anticipated during the project design and pre-construction stage (D), construction stage © and operation stage (O) were screened for their level of significance as demonstrated in Table 38 below. The screening was carried out for impacts that are expected without mitigation. Hence, it guided the identification of impacts that need mitigation and clearly point out significant/major negative impacts that need to be prioritized for mitigation.
197. The significance of each environmental impact or project activity is indicated by the colors of the cells in the last column of the table. Red indicates major impact, orange indicates moderate impact, yellow indicates minor impact and green indicates positive impact. The following section discusses the details of impacts on each of the VECs in line with identification of major, moderate, minor impacts in the screening matrix. Major impacts have been given priority for identification of mitigation measures to ensure that there are minimal or no residual impacts. 85
Table 38: Screening of Environmental Impacts on VECs VEC/Sensitivity Impact/Activity Stage Duration Area Severity Significance 1. Physical environment 16.7 Air quality No impact due to design D N N N N (Medium sensitivity) Vegetation clearing and removal of trees quarrying, material transport and storage, C -ve temporary -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate drilling, hill cutting, Pavement works, use of construction equipment Emissions from increased road traffic O -ve permanent -ve limited -ve low -ve minor 1.2 GHG emissions GHG emissions D, C, O N N N N (Medium sensitivity) 1.3 Surface water quality Disruptions to the natural hydrology D -ve temporary -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate (Medium sensitivity) Construction near sensitive areas, Culvert and bridge construction, use of construction C -ve temporary -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate equipment, Pavement works, Labour camp activities No anticipated impacts O N N N N 1.4 Surface water quantity Disruptions to the natural hydrology D -ve temporary -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate (Low sensitivity) Construction near sensitive areas, Culvert and bridge construction, Drainage C -ve permanent -ve limited -ve low -ve minor work, Earthwork, Quarrying, Debris generation No anticipated impacts O N N N N 1.5 Ground water quality No anticipated impacts D N N N N (Low sensitivity) Groundwater pollution due to labour camp C -ve temporary -ve local -ve low -ve minor activities No anticipated impacts O N N N N 1.6 Ground water quantity None D, C, O N N N N (Low sensitivity) 1.7 Land degradation/ Changes in the local-level topography and D -ve permanent -ve local -ve medium -ve minor pollution appearance of the project site (Low sensitivity) Drilling, hill cutting, earthwork, quarrying, pavement works, stripping of topsoil, debris C -ve temporary -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate generation, oil and grease, spoils disposal
86
VEC/Sensitivity Impact/Activity Stage Duration Area Severity Significance Soil erosion prevention O +ve permanent +ve limited +ve medium +ve 2. Biological environment 16.7 Trees, terrestrial and Vegetation clearing and removal of trees D -ve temporary -ve local -ve medium -ve moderate aquatic vegetation Drilling, blasting and hill cutting, road (Medium sensitivity) widening, Vegetation clearing and removal -ve moderate C -ve temporary -ve limited -ve medium of trees Planting of trees O +ve permanent +ve local +ve medium +ve 16.7 Terrestrial fauna Accident of wild mammals/birds/insects D -ve permanent -ve limited -ve high -ve major (mammals, birds, insects) (High sensitivity) Use of construction materials, labour camp C -ve temporary -ve limited -ve high -ve major reduce human-animal conflict O +ve permanent +ve local +ve medium +ve 16.7 Migratory birds and Loss of vegetative cover D -ve Temporary -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate Ecologically important Degradation of habitat from hydrological areas D -ve permanent -ve limited -ve high -ve moderate (High sensitivity) changes. Degradation of habitat during construction from sedimentation, dust, sewage, or other C -ve temporary -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate construction waste Degradation of habitat from accidentally C,O -ve temporary -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate spilled fuel/oil or surface runoff. Degradation of vegetation due to C -ve temporary -ve limited -ve low -ve minor timber/firewood collection. Degradation of habitat by introduction of C -ve permanent -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate invasive alien species. Poaching C,O -ve temporary -ve limited -ve minor -ve minor Increased traffic, noise O -ve permanent -ve limited -ve medium -ve minor 3. Social environment 3.1 Private land and buildings temporary structure and shrines likely to be D -ve permanent -ve local -ve medium -ve moderate (Medium sensitivity) affected due to widening of road section Limited use of private land for ancillary C -ve temporary -ve local -ve low -ve minor facilities Possible impacts are not directly O N N N N attributable to the project Utility shifting preparation D -ve temporary -ve local -ve low -ve minor 87
VEC/Sensitivity Impact/Activity Stage Duration Area Severity Significance 3.2 Public Utility shifting C -ve temporary -ve local -ve low -ve minor property/infrastructure/ utility structures No anticipated impacts O N N N N (Medium sensitivity) 3.3 Noise Road widening will produce noise levels D -ve permanent -ve local -ve medium -ve moderate (Medium sensitivity) higher than ambient noise levels (>3dB)
Quarrying, material transport and storage, drilling, hill cutting, pavement works, culvert C -ve temporary -ve limited -ve medium -ve moderate and bridge construction Incremental noise <3 dB O N N N N 3.4 Vibration None D N N N N (Low sensitivity) Construction machinery C -ve temporary -ve local -ve medium -ve moderate No anticipated impacts O N N N N 3.5 Occupational health and No anticipated impacts D N N N N safety Vehicle-related, falls and slips, struck-bys, (Medium sensitivity) caught-in-betweens, electrocution risks C -ve temporary -ve local -ve high -ve moderate while carrying out work or residing in campsites No anticipated impacts O N N N N 3.6 Public health and safety No anticipated impacts D N N N N (Medium sensitivity) Disturbance ad pollution, traffic-related safety risks, falls and slips in active C -ve temporary -ve limited -ve high -ve moderate construction sites, debris generation Potential increase in accidents due to O -ve permanent -ve limited -ve moderate -ve minor increase in traffic Better access to healthcare and education O +ve permanent +ve limited +ve medium +ve 3.7 Physical cultural resources (PCR) None D, C, O N N N N (Medium sensitivity)
Note: +ve = positive impact; -ve = negative impact; C = construction stage; D = design & pre-construction stage; N = neutral; O = operation stage; VEC = valued environmental component
: positive impact : minor negative impact : moderate negative impact : major negative impact
88
C. Typical Potential Impacts
198. Identification and assessment of the potential environmental impacts are based on secondary information supplemented by field visits. Impacts on various environmental components have been assessed at four different stages, namely:
• the project location; • design and pre-construction; • construction; and • operation stages.
D. Impacts on Physical Environment
a. Air quality and Greenhouse gas emissions
Design and pre-construction stage – minor negative impact
199. The project aims to improve a section of 27.585 km of the existing state highway no. 63. Based on the capacity augmentation the present road section is proposed for improvement and upgrading to a two-lane configuration with shoulders and side drains. TNHD considered minimum clearing of trees and vegetation and will have minimal impact on the air quality and GHG emissions. A total of 1,174 trees >30 cm girth will be cleared for the road widening which is about 40% less than standard clearing requirements for the scale of widening since extra care was taken to minimize impacts on trees. Carbon sequestration capacity lost through clearing of trees is roughly 21 kg CO2/year per mature tree. These will be replaced with 10 saplings per cut tree whose survival (70%) will be ensured through monitoring and replacement. Each sapling has the ability to absorb roughly 5 kg CO2/year which largely offsets carbon sequestration capacity lost. More details on afforestation are under the section on Trees and Vegetation
Construction stage – moderate negative impact
200. Impact: During construction air quality may be negatively impacted for short periods due to (i) the exhaust emissions from the operation of construction equipment and machinery; (ii) fugitive emissions from brick, concrete, and asphalt plants; (iii) the dust generated from the haulage of materials, exposed soils and material stockpiles, fugitive dust from earth-moving operations and demolition; (iv) cutting and filling of hill slope; (v) cleaning of the road; (vi) material loading; (vii) unloading; and (viii) increased traffic congestion in construction areas. The impact is expected to be localized, temporary and confined to construction areas. Care should, however, be taken at sensitive habitation locations so that harmful impacts can be minimized. The adverse impacts on air quality during construction stage were classified and presented in Table 39. There are two types of pollution i.e. dust pollution and pollution from harmful gases.
Table 39: Impact on Air Quality During Construction Stage S. No. Impact Source 1. Generation of dust • Excavation activities • Transportation and tipping of excavated material – while the former will occur over the entire stretch between the cutting location and disposal site, the latter is more location specific and more intense; • Transportation of raw materials from quarries, borrow, and disposal sites; 89
• Stone crushing, handling and storage of aggregates in asphalt plants; • Site leveling, clearing of trees, laying of asphalt, construction of bridges; • Concrete batching plants; • Asphalt mix plants – due to the mixing of aggregates with bitumen; and • Construction of structures and allied activities 2. Generation of harmful • Hot mix plants; emissions including • Large construction equipment, trucks and asphalt SO2, producing and paving equipment; Nox and HC • Toxic gases released through the heating process during bitumen production; and • Inadequate vehicle maintenance and the use of adulterated fuel in vehicles.
201. Mitigation Measures: The project road section mainly passes through agriculture areas and presently air/dust pollution is not a major issue. In order to suppress any negative impact from the generation of dust during construction there will be regular watering of the road surfaces and exposed spoils or the application of emulsion coats near villages, where dust is a nuisance. Provisions will be incorporated into the contractor’s contract to require the use of dust suppression measures.
202. As it is expected that suspended particulate matter (PM10) levels will increase during construction, certain mitigation measures are suggested in order to keep these levels within the permissible standards. The following actions should be implemented:
• regular check-up and maintenance of construction equipment is required; • idling of engines is strongly discouraged; • mixing plants i.e. asphalt, concrete, and bricks, should be operated within the permissible limits of CPCB and IFC EHS, and located away from settlements; • the contractor will submit a dust suppression and control programme to the PIU prior to construction – this plan details actions to be taken to minimize dust generation and identify equipment to be used; • vehicles delivering loose and fine materials should be covered to reduce spills and speed limits should be imposed; • bitumen emulsion should be used wherever feasible; • no unauthorized burning of C&D waste materials; • bitumen heaters should be used and the use of wood for fuel prohibited; and • Ambient air quality monitoring shall be done regularly at representative sensitive locations to ensure that all the emissions from construction activities are within CPCB and IFC EHS standards and therefore ensuring the effectiveness of mitigation measures taken.
203. Residual Impact: With the proper application of the proposed mitigation measures a residual impact on the air quality during construction phase will be minimal.
Operation stage – minor negative impact
204. Impact: To assess the likely impact on air quality at the various locations along the project road corridor, the prediction of the pollutant concentrations has been carried out using AERMOD,
90
a dispersion model based on Gaussian Equation. Detailed analysis is presented in Appendix 7. The input parameters for the prediction are detailed in subsequent paragraphs.
205. The AERMOD atmospheric dispersion modeling system is an integrated system that includes three modules: (a) A steady-state dispersion model designed for short-range (up to 50 kilometers) dispersion of air pollutant emissions from stationary industrial sources. (b) A meteorological data preprocessor (AERMET) that accepts surface meteorological data, upper air soundings, and optionally, data from on-site instrument towers. It then calculates atmospheric parameters needed by the dispersion model, such as atmospheric turbulence characteristics, mixing heights, friction velocity, Monin-Obukov length and surface heat flux. (c) A terrain preprocessor (AERMAP) whose main purpose is to provide a physical relationship between terrain features and the behavior of air pollution plumes. It generates location and height data for each receptor location. It also provides information that allows the dispersion model to simulate the effects of air flowing over hills or splitting to flow around hills. AERMOD also includes PRIME (Plume Rise Model Enhancements) which is an algorithm for modeling the effects of downwash created by the pollution plume flowing over nearby buildings. Various input parameters for the prediction of pollutant concentrations are discussed below:
206. Traffic Volume: The fleet wise traffic volumes for the present study have been taken from the detailed feasibility report of the project. The annual average daily traffic (AADT) data is available for the proposed road through traffic survey. AERMOD model needs hourly average traffic volume. The total traffic hour volume is further categorized into two-wheeler, four-wheeler, Light commercial vehicles (LCVs), Bus and high commercial vehicles (HCVs), based on the traffic survey at different road stretched along the highway. The annual average daily motorized traffic data are given in Table 40 with predicted traffic growth.
Table 40: Annual Average Daily Traffic Data Year 4W LCV Truck Bus 3W 2W 2020 3229 991 1342 564 64 4774 2025 4845 1368 1776 734 87 7256 2030 6993 1833 2320 939 114 10590 2035 9741 2401 3006 1198 146 15035
207. Emission Factors: Emission factor is one of the important input parameters in AERMOD model. In the present study, the emission factors specified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI, 2007) have been used for calculation of weighted emission factors. These emission factors have been expressed in terms of type of vehicles and type of fuel used (for petrol and diesel driven passenger cars). The emission factors used in the present study for different vehicles type are given in Table 41.
Table 41: Emission Factors for Different Types of Vehicle (ARAI, 2007) Emission factors, g/km (ARAI, 2007) 2W 3W 4W LCV Bus Truck CO 1.04 1.25 1.28 1.56 8.03 6 Nox 0.31 0.6 0.32 1.46 9.01 9.3 PM 0.02 0.22 0.04 0.28 0.55 1.24 SO2 0.01 0.01 0.03 0.06 0.13 0.13 91
208. Meteorological Conditions: The meteorological parameters such as wind speed, wind direction, temperature, rainfall, cloud cover, pressure, and humidity were used in model. Meteorological parameters observed during environmental monitoring carried out in the month of December 2019 were used for the model and is given below Table 42.
Table 42: Meteorological Parameters Used for Modelling Temperature Humidity WD Wind Speed Pressure Precip. Hour Cl (oC) (%) (o) (kmph) (Pa) (mm) 1:00 22.1 97 22.5 23 29.54 0 0 2:00 22.8 94 67.5 7 29.57 0 0 3:00 23.5 96 67.5 8 29.6 0 0 4:00 23.7 92 90 21 29.63 0 0 5:00 23.9 94 22.5 6 29.63 0 0 6:00 24.8 95 22.5 7 29.6 0 0 7:00 25.3 91 45 8 29.57 0 0 8:00 26.7 92 22.5 11 29.54 0 0 9:00 27.1 83 22.5 19 29.52 0 0 10:00 27.6 81 22.5 12 29.49 0 0 11:00 28.5 74 45 17 29.52 0 0 12:00 29.4 70 67.5 22 29.54 0 0 13:00 29.2 73 67.5 11 29.57 0 0 14:00 29 74 67.5 7 29.6 0 0 15:00 28.2 76 45 23 29.63 0 0 16:00 27.7 79 22.5 10 29.66 0 0 17:00 26.3 86 22.5 9 29.63 0 0 18:00 25.4 88 45 18 29.57 0 0 19:00 24.1 89 67.5 27 29.57 0 0 20:00 23.2 91 45 16 29.54 0 0 21:00 23.3 93 22.5 15 29.52 0 0 22:00 23 94 45 28 29.52 0 0 23:00 22.4 95 67.5 20 29.52 0 0 24:00 22.2 95 22.5 11 29.52 0 0
209. Receptors: A set of link receptors were taken at various receptor locations within each section at a distance of 5m, 10m, 20m, 50m, 100m and 200m both sides from center line of the carriageway to know the dispersion of pollutant from the road.
210. Background Concentration: The background pollutant concentrations were taken from environmental monitoring data. Air quality monitoring was carried out in the month of November 2019 at two locations along the alignment on two alternate days in a week. The background pollutant concentrations that were taken for model predictions are listed in Table 43.
92
Table 43: Average Background Concentration of Pollutants along Project Road Average Background Pollutant Unit concentration SO2 15.9 µg/m3 Nox 27 µg/m3 PM10 61.15 µg/m3 PM2.5 35.9 µg/m3 CO 1 mg/m3
211. Predicted Pollution Levels: The model has been setup and run to predict hourly average CO, PM2.5, PM10, Nox and SO2 concentrations for the years 2020, 2025, 2030, 2035 and 2040 using forecasted traffic data on proposed highway. The predicted hourly average concentration of CO, and 24-hourly average concentration of PM2.5, PM10, SOx and Nox during peak traffic are shown in Tables 44 to 48 for proposed highway project. 93
Table 44: CO predicted concentrations (mg/m3) along the proposed road CO Concentration (mg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500
2020 1.04 1.10 1.21 1.46 2.35 3.74 1.11 1.06 1.02 1.00 1.00 1.00 2025 1.30 1.72 2.50 4.25 10.44 20.18 1.74 1.43 1.12 1.02 1.00 1.00 2030 1.62 2.49 4.11 7.74 20.58 40.77 2.54 1.89 1.25 1.05 1.00 1.00 2035 2.04 3.51 6.26 12.38 34.04 68.11 3.60 2.50 1.42 1.08 1.00 1.00
Table 45:PM2.5 predicted concentrations (µg/m3) along the proposed road PM2.5 Concentration (µg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year m. (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500 2020 35.90 35.91 35.92 35.95 36.05 36.22 35.91 35.90 35.90 35.90 35.90 35.90 2025 35.93 35.97 36.06 36.27 36.96 38.10 35.94 35.92 35.91 35.90 35.90 35.90 2030 35.96 36.05 36.24 36.67 38.10 40.46 35.98 35.95 35.91 35.90 35.90 35.90 2035 36.00 36.16 36.47 37.20 36.61 43.59 36.04 35.98 35.92 35.90 35.90 35.90
Table 46:PM10 Predicted Concentrations (µg/m3) along the Proposed Road PM10 Concentration (µg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year m. (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500 2020 61.15 61.16 61.17 61.20 61.30 61.47 61.02 61.15 61.15 61.15 61.15 61.15 2025 61.18 61.22 61.31 61.52 62.21 63.35 61.19 61.17 61.16 61.15 61.15 61.15 2030 61.21 61.30 61.49 61.62 63.35 65.71 61.23 61.20 61.16 61.15 61.15 61.15 2035 61.25 61.41 61.72 62.45 64.86 68.84 61.29 61.23 61.17 61.15 61.15 61.15
94
Table 47:Nox Predicted Concentrations (µg/m3) along the Proposed Road NOx Concentration (µg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500 2020 27.05 27.11 27.23 27.51 28.47 29.99 27.12 27.07 27.02 27.00 27.00 27.00 2025 27.32 27.78 28.63 30.53 37.25 47.82 27.81 27.47 27.13 27.02 27.00 27.00 2030 27.67 28.62 30.38 34.31 48.23 70.13 28.67 27.97 27.27 27.05 27.00 27.00 2035 28.13 29.73 32.70 39.24 62.84 99.79 29.82 28.63 27.46 27.09 27.00 27.00
Table 48:SO2 predicted concentrations (µg/m3) along the Proposed Road* SO2 Concentration (µg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year m. (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500 2020 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.01 16.02 16.05 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 2035 16.02 16.06 16.13 16.29 16.84 17.74 16.03 16.02 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 *Note- SO2 predictions’ not done for 2025 and 2030 as there is very minor change in SO2 concentration (less than 2.0 µg/m3 ) from year 2020 to 2035. This can be seen from the results of Air modelling given in Appendix -7.
95
212. Green House Gases Emissions: Upgrading and strengthening the surface condition of existing SH-63 road under project will bring about a change in vehicle operation speeds, traffic composition on the highway. Such changes with respect to present conditions will have an impact on emission levels of the gases emitted by vehicles travelling along the section of SH-63. Most common types of vehicles that would move on a particular section are motorcycles, three wheelers, cars, vans, buses, light and heavy commercial vehicles. Thus, emission of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) from motorized vehicles which is a GHG needs to be analysed to evaluate the overall contribution of this investment program in terms of the change in CO2 emissions.
213. Evaluation Knowledge Brief has developed a set of spreadsheet-based models to evaluate the CO2 impacts of rural roads. These Transport Emissions Evaluation Model for projects (TEEMP) consider passenger and freight travel activity, the shares of trips by different modes and vehicle types (structure), fuel CO2 efficiency (intensity), and fuel type, validated by more detailed emission factor models. The models directly estimate CO2 emissions for a business-as-usual case (a no- action alternative) vs. alternative including improvement to road pavement and calculate scenario differences.
214. The TEEMP model for rural/urban roads was used for the analysis with using default parameters for base fuel consumption, emission factor and upstream emission percentage. Occupancy-loading, average trip lengths of each type of vehicle, vehicle type growth and roughness factors (before and after improvements) were fed to the model based on the details of traffic and economic analysis for the section of SH-63 road. The model was run separately for the road sections. The traffic data used in the model is given in Table 40.
215. Model output includes CO2 emissions at Business as Usual (BAU) or without project; with project (i.e. with improvements) and with induced traffic; and with project and without induced traffic.
Table 49: CO2 Emission at BAU, Project With and Without Induced Traffic Parameters Emission of CO2 in Ton/km/year BAU 275.54 Project with induced traffic 271.29 Project without induced traffic 271.29 Net reduction in CO2 emission 4.24
216. As indicated in the model output summarized in above Table 49 the proposed improvement to existing highway pavements will bring a reduction in CO2 emission even with a growth of traffic. However, this analysis is based on the assumptions that the roughness of improved highway pavement surface will be maintained during the project life. Therefore, it is important that the road maintenance program is maintained throughout the project life. The total length of SH-63 to be improved is 27.6 km. Based on the net change in CO2 emissions or CO2 savings of the sections is 4.24 Tons/km/year, and thus the proposed investment program of SH- 63 as will save emissions of 117.29 Tons CO2/year.
217. Mitigation Measures: It has been observed from the model output that when the traffic volume increases, the concentration of air pollutants also increases correspondingly. However, the maximum predicted pollutant concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 over the existing ambient air quality are found to be within (50m from the centerline of road) the National Ambient
96
Air Quality Standards of CPCB, except for CO and NOx. However, the predicted values are higher than the IFC EHS guideline limits for all the parameters monitored. Increases from the baseline values are not significant based on the modeling. Since the project will improve the road conditions, TEEMP model even shows decrease in GHG emissions, demonstrating that since vehicles stay less on the road, there will be an overall decrease in emissions. However, pollution from reanimation of dust on the road will remain a concern. Proper and regular maintenance of roads will decrease these indirect impacts. The details of air quality modelling and pollutant dispersion along the alignment is given in Appendix 7.
218. Residual Impact: The project is projected to have minor residual impact on the air quality. It is expected that with proper and regular road maintenance, the road improvement will not have significant negative residual and cumulative impacts on road quality.
b. Surface water quality and quantity
Design and pre-construction stage – moderate negative impact
219. During preliminary planning and design of this project, the Consultant has taken into account the need for:
• reduced incidence of embankment erosion due to inadequate drainage; • providing adequate culverts/drains; and • providing side-drainage structures.
220. Impact. Given the presence of canal and ponds along the project road and some of the seasonal stream crossing the project road, improvement of road may result in disruptions to the natural hydrology and water mismanagement and lead to further problems of soil erosion. Regarding design, the following should be followed:
• drainage structures are properly designed to accommodate forecast discharges; • side drain waters must be discharged at every available stream crossing to minimize volume and prevent erosion at discharge point; • provide lined drainage structures; • where an increased discharge of surface water endangers the stability of the water outlet, erosion protection measures such as bioengineering measures, ripraps, and check dams are incorporated; and • in areas with high water tables, seepage may occur, and side drains and up-slope catch drains must always be lined to avoid percolation.
221. Mitigation Measures: The natural courses of rivers/streams will be maintained. Appropriate temporary diversions of streams will be made and brought back to their natural course as soon works are completed in that section.
222. Residual Impact: With the proper application of the proposed mitigation measures residual impacts on the surface water quality and quantity will be minimal.
Construction stage – moderate negative impact
223. Impact. Minor impacts on water resources are expected during the construction phase construction site runoff, wastewater discharge, etc. The rehabilitation of existing bridges may also cause soil erosion and turbidity in downstream water bodies. 97
224. The likely impacts of surface water movements are changes in the natural drainage systems, downstream scour, and erosion due to constriction in flows. If suspended solid concentrations in the water are affected, this could also affect aquatic ecology. However, these impacts are expected to be minor as there are no perennial rivers along the proposed road alignment and construction will take place during dry period.
225. Mitigation Measures: To mitigate this, river-bank slope stabilities will be monitored and, if necessary, appropriate remedial measures applied throughout the construction period. Construction work at bridges during rainy season will be minimized to avoid erosion and sedimentation.
226. To mitigate these impacts the following measures should be implemented:
• maintain adequate vegetative cover on unpaved shoulders of the road; • maintain the natural course of water bodies (as much as possible) and no throwing of C&D spoils into water bodies; • chemicals and oils are stored in secure, impermeable containers, and disposed of well away from surface waters In an environmentally sound manner while adhering to applicable laws and regulations; • no vehicle repair/cleaning activity is allowed within 300m of water bodies/ drains; • construction camps are equipped with sanitary latrines (septic tanks); • construction establishments such as construction camps, labor camps, asphalt/concrete mixing stations, stone crushing units should be located away from the water bodies. Domestic and sewage wastes from labor camps shall be treated with a sewage treatment system (septic tanks) to comply with the standards specified by CPCB and IFC before disposal. Testing of effluent has to be done in accordance with the rules and regulations of CPCB and SCPB”. • the work on bridges and culverts is limited to dry seasons, when many of the smaller streams will have low water – water diversion works can be minimized, and the original course restored immediately after the work has been completed; drivers are made aware of diversions and other works at bridge construction site to avoid accidents; and • all debris and vegetation, clogging culverts are regularly cleared.
227. Residual Impact: With the proper application of the proposed mitigation measures a residual impact on the surface water quality and quantity during construction will be minimal to moderate.
Operation stage – neutral impact
228. Once construction is finished no impact on the surface water quality and quantity is expected. In order to check if unexpected erosion and siltation (including accidental spillage of pollutants from vehicles) in major water bodies is happening periodic surveillance will be conducted and mitigation measures will be taken if necessary.
c. Groundwater quality and quantity
Design and pre-construction stage – neutral impact
229. No impacts are envisaged during design and preconstruction stage.
Construction stage – minor negative impact
98
230. Impact: The quality of the groundwater could be impacted at sites where process water or wastewater is generated and disposed of in an improper manner. This could be the case at labour camps, at temporary construction sites and at fuel stations. Quantity may be affected if construction water requirement is obtained from groundwater sources.
231. Mitigation Measures: Sewage generated at labour camps will be disposed in septic tanks which may be emptied periodically through local sewage disposal system. Latrines should be located away and downstream of any source for drinking water in order to prevent accidental contamination of drinking water sources. All latrines will be connected with a septic tank to ensure sewage is not released into the environment. Locations for fueling and/or maintenance should be fitted with impervious flooring and a drainage system connected to an oil/water separator and settling tank to treat sewage before being discharged. Fuel tanks shall be placed in a catch basin large enough to hold the entire contents of the tank and an additional ten percent. More detail on the layout and requirements for labour camps and construction sites can be found in Appendix 8: Plant Management and Appendix 9: Camp Site Management.
232. Construction water requirement (avg. 200 KLD and peak 300 KLD) will be met through local rivers and other canals in the project area. Domestic water requirement (30 KLD) for workers will also be met through approved sources only. Necessary permits will be obtained prior to water abstraction and only when there are no other viable sources or if the safety of workers will be at risk, so as not to compete with local domestic demand. Water abstraction will be included in monitoring
233. Residual impact. With the proper application of the proposed mitigation measures a residual impact on the groundwater quality will be minimal during construction.
Operation stage – neutral impact
234. During the operation stage of the project no impacts on groundwater quality or quantity are foreseen.
d. Land degradation and pollution
Design and pre-construction stage – minor negative impact
235. Impact: Construction activities of the project road will bring permanent changes in the local-level topography and appearance of the project site. There will be a change in aesthetic beauty of the project area mainly due to the earthwork.
236. The use of proper sources for stone and aggregates has become a major issue in most of the state. Historically, stone has been collected from the roadside or from shallow surface workings. Small quarries on steep slopes are often enlarged by blasting or excavation at the base. This is dangerous and can cause slope failures. Roadside stone collection continues in some districts despite its proven negative impacts on road safety and stability.
237. Sand and gravel are often obtained from river deposits. Roadside quarrying is officially discouraged, but unofficially continues, invariably by petty contractors.
238. The engineering team as part of material survey has identified and recommended sources of the construction materials. Details of these sources are provided in Volume 1 (Material survey chapter) of Detailed Project Report. As a prior requirement of project, every new quarry and 99
borrow area should also be subjected to a site-specific environmental investigation work according to an approved plan; and should be left in a safe condition or restored to a productive land use. Subject to these conditions, obtaining construction materials for projects will not cause unacceptable impacts.
239. Mitigation measures. During preliminary planning and design of this project, the Consultant has taken into account the need for:
• Optimization of the centre line so that embankment raised on both sides; • temporary and permanent drainage systems to minimize soil erosion; • optimum siting and control of quarries; and • mechanized construction methods.
240. The following should be considered during finalization of detailed engineering design:
• Minimize permanent and temporary land take for development • Optimize balance between cut and fill and avoid deep cuts and high embankments to minimize earthworks • Maximize reuse of spoils and old asphalt paving material within the construction • Agree on spoils disposal sites, management and rehabilitation plan with relevant local agencies • Specify vegetation that serves specific bioengineering functions
241. Adequate earth material is available from barren land in the vicinity. Estimated quantity is 1,55,200 cum of borrow earth. Aggregates (1,60,000 cum) will be mostly sourced from licensed quarries available locally. Tentatively it is proposed that the aggregates and boulders will be sourced from U.S. Gravel from Mathiyathuparai Quarry located about 64km from the project road. Fine aggregate of 40,000 cum will be taken from quarries or riverbeds after prior permission from competent authority. Tentatively it is proposed that the sand will be sources from Coleroon River (Radhanallur) at a distance of about 78 km from project road. Earth cut materials will be maximized for reuse in backfilling on the same rural road to minimize the quantities of borrow materials and spoil disposal.
242. There is a need to establish construction camps and related facilities, such as borrow pits and quarries. These must be located in environmentally sound and socially safe areas. Construction materials for the road works will be mined mostly from approved quarries. The following criteria are applied for locating the borrow areas:
• If new borrow areas are opened for the project, they should obtain necessary clearances; • borrow areas are not established in ecologically sensitive areas; • villagers are consulted in regard to the design and location of all borrow areas – these should ensure the safety of local communities and, if possible, should incorporate beneficial post construction features for the villages; • located away from the road so as to minimize visual and slope stability impacts; • construction facilities such as temporary workers camp, hot mix plants, and concrete batching plant and stone crushers will not be established near protected area. village panchayat committees should be consulted before locating these temporary project facilities; • construction camps for labourers should be located at a suitable distance away from settlements in accordance with relevant national or state regulations such as the
100
State Pollution Control Board and in a manner to avoid stressing local resources (water, electricity etc.) and away from forest/protected areas; • living accommodation and ancillary facilities should be erected and maintained to standards and scales approved by the CSC; and • toilets and urinals should be provided in accessible places away from the asphalt plant and mixing yard.
243. Residual Impact: With the proper implementation of the proposed mitigation measures and low likelihood of the project requiring opening of new quarry sites the project is not expected to have a significant residual impact on the soil and local topography.
Construction stage - moderate negative impact
244. Impact: There may be permanent changes in the landscape. Disposal of excavated soils and debris at improper locations such as low laying area will make the area look untidy and unattractive. Disposal of waste and litter at improper locations and deforestation for firewood will make the area look dirty and unattractive.
245. During the improvement works for the road section, the cutting of trees, stone quarrying, and construction of structures, the micro-level topography may change. With proper planning, these topographical impacts can be kept within acceptable limits and sometimes even used to enhance local aesthetics. Any negative impacts on topography (existing or new), particularly soil erosion due to a lack of drainage facilities, will be minimized with the provision of proper drainage facilities such as culverts etc. The overall impact on topography is, therefore, anticipated to be insignificant.
246. The terrain and geological conditions of area is plain, hence the interaction between proposed road features and existing land features will not reveal/result in significant land instabilities.
247. Given the low gradient slope and lack of proper drainage in almost entire project area, it is inevitable that the project site will face problems of erosion. Unstable, uncompacted road embankment materials and exposed material can result to soil erosion, clogging of side drains and the spill-over of rainwater runoff onto the road surface. These problems can be mitigated by maintaining the better gradients as specified in the MORTH guidelines. The existing vegetation on embankment slopes, the immediate area of construction must remain undisturbed during construction and/or upgrading. Grass seeding will be used to prevent barren embankment and to stop soil erosion. Support structures will be installed where slope failures are anticipated or may have occurred previously.
248. Construction work in the project road section will be virtually through plain terrain and stable slopes. Much of areas in this section are surrounded by agriculture fields with adequate natural drainage of storm, resulting in stable substrates.
249. The project will require large amounts of bitumen or bitumen emulsion usually stored in drums. These empty bitumen drums are generally recycled as steel sheeting or used in road construction as parapets or for riverbank stabilization. When supplied and used in this manner, bitumen, if not containing Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH), is not regarded as a significant environmental hazard.
250. The project will require the import, transport, and use of fuel and oils. Minor diesel spills are common in region, especially around fuel stations. 101
251. Mitigation Measures: During the construction phase the existing vegetation including shrubs and grasses along the road (except within the strip directly under embankments or cuttings) should be properly maintained. Sites for quarrying, borrowing and disposal of spoils are to be confirmed according to the applicable laws and regulations in the state and the practices followed in recent/ongoing internationally funded road projects. Major excavation and earthworks should only be undertaken during the dry season.
252. Quarry and borrow pits may be filled with rejected construction waste such as topsoil etc. and afterwards should be given a vegetative cover. If this is not possible, then the excavated slopes will be filled in such a way that they resemble an original ground surface.
253. Mitigation measures for quarries are:
• aggregates will be first sourced from licensed quarry sites (which are in operation) that comply with environmental and other applicable regulations; • quarries must use controlled and environmentally friendly quarrying techniques in order to minimize erosions and landslides (Appendix 12 provides guidelines for quarry management); • occupational safety procedures/practices for the work force will be adhered to in all quarries; • quarry and crushing units will be provided with adequate dust suppression measures; and • regular monitoring of the quarries by concerned authorities to ensure compliance with environmental management and monitoring measures.
254. Mitigation measures for borrow areas are:
• prior approval will be obtained from concerned authorities and all local environmental regulations be complied with; • within all identified borrow areas, the actual extent of area to be excavated will be demarcated with signs and access to the operational area controlled; • borrow pit plant and machinery will conform to CPCB and IFC EHS noise emission regulations; • protective gear will be provided to the workforce exposed to noise levels beyond threshold limits and there should be proper rotation of such personnel; • all operation areas will be water sprinkled to control dust levels to national ambient air quality standards; and • borrow areas are provided with gentle side slope that are connected to the nearest drainage channel to avoid the formation of cesspools during the rainy season
255. Other mitigation measures to be taken during the construction phase are:
• Any temporary lands required for labour camps or any other sites required for the project shall be transferred back to the owner after the land has been restored to its original state before the completion of construction works. Contractor has to collect baseline data on the quality of ambient air, ambient noise, soil, surface water and groundwater before establishing and after decommissioning the camps or sites. • excavated material shall be stockpiled and covered in such a way the soil will not erode awayand should be used to widen the road or disposed of at proper disposal sites following spoil disposal management guidelines (Appendix 10).
102
• Removal of bituminous wastes from existing roads should not be disposed of in nearby water bodies, open spaces and parks and wastes should not be left unmanaged on the roadsides. Bituminous material should be examined for PAH to establish if it can be recycled/reused for road construction. If not, the bitumen shall be treated as hazardous waste and disposed of in pre-identified and approved disposal sites. • Any construction and demolition waste generated during the construction phase should be managed in accordance with the C&D Waste Management Rules, 2016.As far as possible, demolition and construction waste should be segregated and recycled. The unserviceable waste left after recycling should be dumped in pre- identified and approved pits as per Construction & Demolition Waste Management Rules. All required permissions shall be obtained from the concerned authorities before disposal of the debris”. • cut slopes should be re-vegetated immediately after widening activities. • cut material should be disposed of in suitable depressions.
256. To mitigate the impacts of possible fuel spills the following measures will be applied:
• secondary containment around fuel tanks large enough to hold the entire contents of the tank and an additional ten percent and at fueling stations will be built; • oil and fuel spills, and other runoff from contaminated areas will be controlled; and • equipment and fuel depots will be placed in safe zones away from drinking water sources and riverbanks.
257. Appendix 8 to Appendix 12 of this IEE Report presents good environmental management practices and guide documents in the following aspects of road construction:
• Plant Management – Appendix 8; • Camp Site Management – Appendix 9; • Debris and Spoil Disposal Management – Appendix 10; • Borrow Area Management – Appendix 11; • Quarry Area Management – Appendix 12.
258. Residual Impact: With the proper application of the proposed mitigation measures the construction phase should not have any significant residual impact (except minor impacts for the initial years) on the soil or the local topography.
Operation stage – positive impact
259. Repairs to culverts and new drainage work will eliminate/reduce the soil erosion problems presently caused by poor cross drainage. The situation will remain good because this road passes through an area that is largely agriculture fields and trees and plants have the capacity to stabilize the soil and prevent soil erosion.
E. Impacts on Biological environment
a. Trees and vegetation
Design and pre-construction stage – moderate negative impact
260. Impact: About 1.85 km length of project road section passes through Eco-Sensitive Zone of VBS. Since improvement work will be kept limited to existing ROW towards VBS area with 103
minimal additional land acquisition on opposite of protected area in agriculture fields. Nonetheless, land clearing will involve cutting of roadside trees (1174 nos.) in other parts of the alignment and a few horticulture shrubs from existing RoW in ESZ area. The improvement of the proposed road is largely confined on the existing alignment. On another side, improvements to the geometry may involve excavation and filling and the need to clear vegetation.
261. Mitigation Measures: It will be important to ensure that any compensation for trees felled in the sanctuary eco-sensitive zone occurs within the sanctuary or its eco-sensitive zone, and prioritizes native species used for nesting by Black-headed Ibis. To minimize loss of trees, the following mitigation measures have been adopted during the detailed design and construction stage of the project:
• widening proposal considered option with minimal tree cutting; • Widening is proposed on the other side of the VBS falling outside the sanctuary; • Adequate measures are included in the design to minimize impacts on the VBS; • strictly enforce the environmental conditions from the appropriate authority, if any; • adopting Environmentally Friendly Road Construction (EFRC) methods; • Under the mandatory afforestation program approximately 11740 trees will be planted within the project area; • The plantation under compensatory afforestation plan will be scheduled within 15 months of the construction works, as preparation of seedlings in the approved nursery will start with commencement of construction work for the project road; and • Budget provisions for following the mandatory afforestation program which requires planting trees at the rate of 1:10 for trees cut (11740 in total) and improving vegetation cover in the project area.
262. Additional measures proposed for the habitat improvement in the VBS are discussed below.
263. Rescue/Transplantation of Flora: All efforts will be made to rescue and conserve any botanical. The project proponent/operator will seek technical assistance from Forest Department on this matter prior to any road clearance or construction activities. After rescue, for the conservation of floral species, it will be placed in a selected site in such as an existing Forest Nursery. This activity will take place in the pre-construction phase of the project. The right of way of road, especially in ESZ area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary will be surveyed in detail for this purpose, before any clearing activities take place and preference for tree transplantation wherever possible instead of tree removal in the sanctuary area will be practiced.
264. Ensure Minimal Land Clearing and Removal of Vegetation: The project proponent will ensure that the land acquisition process (temporary and permanent) for conversion to other land uses for road alignment and temporary storage area for construction camp and material, waste, etc., is as per the identified areas after approval only. Only those trees which are necessary to be removed will be felled and removed from the project area.
265. Rehabilitate and Restore Used Sites: The temporary land acquisition areas for construction camp and material stock will be restored to its previous stage. The Compensatory Afforestation plantation on both side of road and area within protected area will be done with fast growing local (native) species of trees and shrubs. Rescued flora may be replanted in Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary area, if land is available.
266. Residual Impact: As a result of the proposed afforestation program and additional improvement activities it is expected that there will be a net gain of trees and vegetation under the
104
project. It is expected that vegetation such as shrubs, herbs and bushes will reestablish themselves within one to two years after project construction. However, the trees will take around 5–10 years to reach appreciable size. Hence, there will be no residual impacts in relation to smaller vegetation species such as shrubs, bushes etc. Residual impacts in relation to mature trees will be mitigated eventually in around 5–10 years after project construction.
Construction stage – moderate negative impact
267. Impact: Removal of trees for road widening etc. will result in temporary loss of habitat and associated biodiversity. It is particularly important that the road improvement works should minimize vegetation clearance in the ESZ and sanctuary areas of VBS. Another impact from road construction activities and deriving from the vehicle movement, quarrying, preparation and transfer of material and other earthwork is the accumulation of dust on the surrounding vegetation. This leads to deterioration of the vegetative health, which in turn will affect the ecology as well as the aesthetic beauty of the area. Induced impacts may also result from the following:
• increased tree harvesting for firewood, construction timber, forage, medicinal plants, and other products; • increased earth and rock extraction; and • construction crew demands for wood as a fuel and for building materials;
268. Invasive Species: Soil brought into the project area from outside may contain seeds of alien invasive species. Also, the construction machinery and vehicles can accidentally introduce seeds of such plants if used without proper cleaning. This will negatively affect both the natural and manmade habitats. Securing soil from locations close to the project area will reduce the chances of transporting any seeds of alien invasive species to the project area.
269. Land acquisition: Both temporary and permanent, and removal of trees for road widening etc. will result in temporary loss of habitat and associated biodiversity. The tree removal and vegetation clearing from roadside during road section construction for the will result in slight loss of habitat to Avifauna and associated biodiversity. 270. Mitigation Measures: Compensatory afforestation plan will be developed in consultation with local forest department. In detail, the recommended mitigation measures include:
• Compensatory afforestation plans; • Cut only trees which are necessary. Ensure that the vegetation is cleared as per terms and conditions of tree cutting permit; • Compliance with guidelines issued by the Indian Road Congress; • all wood building material for workers’ housing should be brought from outside the project area; • workers should be supplied with non-wood fuels such as kerosene or liquefied petroleum gas for the duration of the contract; • Prohibit collection, sale or purchase of timber/firewood by staff and contractors, with heavy penalties applied; • all contract equipment and plants should be cleaned to the satisfaction of the CSC in charge prior to their relocation to project sites; • during site clearance, care should be taken to ensure that the minimum area of vegetation area is affected; • water sprinkling of trucks used as construction vehicles should be properly and regularly undertaken, so that dust deposition problem on vegetation is minimized. Cleaning/washing of construction vehicles arriving in the project area; and 105
• Securing soil from locations close to the project area will reduce the chances of transporting any seeds of alien invasive species to the project area.
271. Residual Impact: With the implementation of the measures above, minimal residual impacts on trees and vegetation are expected.
Operation stage – positive impact
272. Impact: A net gain of good vegetation cover is expected as a result of the mandatory compensatory afforestation program. It is expected that vegetation such as shrubs, herbs and bushes will reestablish themselves within one to two years after project construction. However, the trees will take longer 5–10 years to attain substantial growth. Hence, there will be no residual impacts in relation to smaller vegetation species such as shrubs, bushes etc. Residual impacts in relation to mature trees will be mitigated eventually after 5–10 years after project construction.
273. Improvement proposals are restricted to minimum width in the length passing through ESZ of VBS. Eccentric widening (one side) is proposed to minimize impacts from encroachment of ESZ areas from VBS.
274. Residual Impact: Considering the above measures, the project road meets the requirements of para 28 (page 35) of the SPS – no measurable adverse impacts, no reduction in population of threatened species etc. Hence, the project works will be in compliance with the SPS and residual impacts on avifauna are expected to be insignificant.
b. Fauna
Design and pre-construction stage – moderate negative impact
275. Impact: The Project AoA covers Critical Habitat for Black-headed Ibis. Habitat impacts for this species reflect those for the VBS with the additional potential for clearance of feeding or roosting habitat for the species outside of the IBA. This poses a risk of Medium Significance.
276. The potential for indirect impacts has also been considered. Poaching of Black-headed Ibis by construction workers is considered to be a Low Significance risk.
277. Mitigation measures: Mitigation measures specific to the VBS have been identified in the biodiversity action plan (Appendix 16). During the design and pre-construction stage, noise- reducing barriers should be incorporated into the road improvement plan, particularly along the VBS.
278. Residual impact: With proper design and placement of noise-reducing barriers as proposed, the residual impact on the avian fauna is expected to be low.
Construction stage –moderate negative impact
279. Impact: Construction activities are likely to cause some disturbance to the bird species particularly areas of VBS along the project road section. Local people have reported there to be no accidents between birds and vehicles at present. However, vehicle collisions with Black- headed Ibis are possible given the numbers of this species in the area and its use of the ground for feeding. As such, mortality from vehicle collisions potentially poses a Medium Significance threat to Black-headed Ibis. Likewise, displacement of Black-headed Ibis owing to noise and disturbance during construction and operations is assessed to be of Medium Significance because
106
it may reduce the breeding success of the species. Other impacts identified are degradation of habitat from sedimentation, dust, sewage, or other construction waste and from accidentally spilled fuel/oil or surface runoff.
280. Disturbance to the Birds: Logging-off of trees, excavation, collection and deposition of materials and the movement of construction vehicles on the site will disturb the habitat of birds. Logging of large tree might destroy the nests of birds and young chicks. Excavation and construction activities will disturb the feeding birds nearby and pollution due to deposition of construction materials may chase away the birds from their usual habitat. The activities on road section passing in ESZ of protected area may induce inundation of water current, which will disturb the feeding and reproductive grounds of water birds mainly from water reservoir area. Poaching by construction workers may also be a minor risk during construction.
281. Mitigation Measures: Following measures will be implemented to minimize the construction stage impacts.
• Limit construction during the day, between April and September (i.e.non-breeding season); • Use acoustic enclosures for noisy equipment (e.g., diesel generators, compressors); • Prohibit hunting, trapping, fishing and trading of wildlife by staff and contractors, with heavy penalties applied; and • Apply 20–30 kmph speed limits for construction vehicles in the VBS eco-sensitive zone.
282. Residual Impact: Considering the above measures, the project road meets the requirements of para 28 (page 35) of the SPS – no measurable adverse impacts, no reduction in population of endangered species etc. Hence, the project works will be in compliance with the SPS and residual impacts on avian fauna are expected to be insignificant.
Operation stage – positive impact
283. Impact: Increased traffic volumes have the potential to increase poaching during the operation phase. However, this is considered a Low risk because it is unlikely to occur to any significant extent in this area, for a couple of reasons. First, the road will increase traffic, but not actual access to the area (i.e., a functional road already exists along roughly the same alignment). Second, poaching is an illegal activity which thus usually takes place out of sight – the area is heavily populated and increased traffic will further hinder roadside poaching during the day. Local people report that there is currently no hunting in the area.
284. Mitigation Measures: In order to avoid and minimize other negative impacts on avifauna, following measures will be implemented.
• Install anti-poaching, speed limit and animal crossing warning signs in the VBS Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone. • Apply 20–30 kmph speed limits for construction vehicles in the VBS eco-sensitive zone.
285. Residual Impact: Some small residual impacts on Black-headed Ibis from construction disturbance are anticipated to remain until the early stages of the operations phase. However, installation of noise-reducing barriers between the road and Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary is anticipated to have a long-term positive impact by reducing noise disturbance to birds in the 107
sanctuary below current levels and by acting in part as a replacement for the dilapidated fence around the sanctuary.
c. VBS and Other Ecologically important areas
Design and pre-construction stage – moderate negative impact
286. Impact: Ecologically important areas within the project area includes the VBS (Water Reservoir/lake) and surrounding agriculture fields The Project will operate within the eco-sensitive zone of this sanctuary, rather than the sanctuary itself, so clearance of vegetation will not directly impact the IBA. Further, trees to be cleared are largely non-native (e.g., fruit trees). Nonetheless, there is potential for degradation of the sanctuary from hydrological changes or pollution from sedimentation, dust, sewage, or other construction waste. Risks of habitat degradation by hydrological changes or pollution during construction are considered to be of Medium Significance. Degradation of habitat from accidentally spilled fuel/oil or surface runoff is less likely, given the bund separating the sanctuary from the road, and so is considered a Low Significance risk.
287. Mitigation Measures: Ensure no drainage from road through bunds into Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary. Drainage from the road into Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary could change its hydrology or facilitate the spread of construction pollution or accidentally spilled fuel/oil (Section 4.1). Such drainage is unlikely, owing to the bunds between the road and the sanctuary. However, the bunds have been in disrepair for some time (Birdlife International 2020) and confirmed through field survey. It will therefore be important to ensure that the bund next to the road is in good repair before starting construction, and that road drainage and camber in the sanctuary’s eco-sensitive zone directs any run-off towards the edge of the road away from the sanctuary. This mitigation measure is not anticipated to cause any significant additional cost or time delay for the Project.
288. Residual Impact: If the above mitigation measures get implemented as planned, minimal residual impacts will remain.
Construction stage - moderate negative impact
289. Impact: The potential for indirect impacts such as the introduction of invasive alien species (IAS) is considered a significant risk. The Global Invasive Species Database (http://www.iucngisd.org/gisd) has records for 226 terrestrial or freshwater IAS in India, of which 134 are plants. IAS can spread rapidly once introduced, significantly modifying habitat, and present a very high risk to biodiversity globally. There is potential for construction machinery, equipment or materials to introduce IAS to the Project site, particularly plants – e.g., as seeds within soil on machinery. Some of these species may not be introduced by the Project, but simply spread further. For example, the invasive American plant Lantana camara impacts forests by reducing recruitment of native tree species (Sharma & Raghubanshi 2007) and is already widespread in India. Therefore, risks of habitat degradation by invasive alien species are of Medium Significance. Induced impacts may also result from the following:
• increased tree cover harvesting for firewood, construction timber, forage, medicinal plants, and other products; • increased earth and rock extraction; • construction crew demands for wood as a fuel and for building materials; and • construction crew demands for food and recreational hunting and fishing.
108
290. Mitigation Measures: Avoid introduction of new invasive species to, and spread of existing invasive species within, the Project area. In order to manage the risk of introducing or spreading invasive species into Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary or its eco-sensitive zone, an Invasive Species Management Plan will be developed. This will include at minimum: pressure washing of vehicles, equipment and supplies before nearing Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary and its eco-sensitive zone; monitoring for invasive species in Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary, its eco-sensitive zone, and 5 km either side; and control/eradication of invasive species were found in Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary or its eco-sensitive zone. Washing need not use substantial amounts of water and can be replaced by brushing during any periods of low water supply. It is anticipated that costs of a wash station are unlikely to exceed US$5,000 USD, and that at most two would be needed (on either side of the sanctuary). Such preventative measures are generally considerably less costly than measures to control or eradicate invasive species.
291. Other mitigation measures are:
• Spray water on construction areas to reduce dust. • Strict prohibition on use of the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone for construction camps, borrow pits, or storage of materials/waste; provision of self- contained toilet facilities. • Ensure no drainage from road through bunds into Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary. • Prohibit collection, sale or purchase of timber/firewood by staff and contractors, with heavy penalties applied. • Train staff and contractors in good environmental practice, and prohibited activities. • Ensure contractors supply all necessary food, cooking fuel and appropriate housing.
292. Residual Impact: With the proper implementation of the proposed mitigation measures residual impacts from the project is expected to be minimal.
Operation stage – positive impact
293. Impact: Degradation of water quality in the tank from accidentally spilled fuel/oil or surface runoff is considered a minor risk.
294. Mitigation Measure: Drainage design to ensure no drainage from road through bunds into the VBS will address this impact.
295. Residual Impact: If mitigation measures described above are implemented as planned, very few significant negative residual impacts on the VBS are anticipated by the operations phase of the Project. The Project does not impact any significant areas of Natural Habitat.
F. Impacts on Social Environment
296. The sensitive location such as school, college, places of worship, and hospital along project road within 100 meters from the edge of the existing road has been identified as given in Table 41. These structures are kept unaffected by the proposed improvement proposal. Short term impacts during the construction stage are expected. Measures such as timely scheduling of construction activities in these areas, provision of sign boards, appropriate barriers such as planting trees and / or raised boundary walls are adopted to minimize impacts.
d. Private land and buildings
Design and pre-construction stage – moderate negative impact 109
297. Impact: There will be only 3.71 ha land acquisition as the proposed widening will be accommodated within existing ROW. Community impacts are mostly due to the resettlement of people due to widening of the project road to 2 lanes.
298. Resettlement and rehabilitation plan for the project road has been prepared for 148 private structure and 15 community property resources. It was noted that the relocation of structures will be required at congested locations along the project road mainly Vaduvoor, Vandaiyariruppu & Neivasal. The widening options have been devised to minimize impacts of structures.
299. Mitigation Measures: A resettlement plan is prepared to address this issue. The affected people will be compensated and rehabilitated as per the provisions of the Resettlement Plan.
300. Residual Impact: Since any foreseen impact on private land and buildings will be addressed in a separate resettlement plan no residual impacts are envisaged.
Construction stage –minor negative impact
301. Impact: At certain locations on the road, particularly at bridge/culvert sites, traffic will be temporarily diverted from the existing carriageway while construction is in progress and temporary traffic diversions will be managed within the ROW. In other instances, traffic may have to be diverted across adjacent private land. Access to adjacent properties and agricultural land will be maintained, as necessary. Any damage to areas and infrastructure outside the agreed work sites (Corridor of Impact assessed in project RP) will be restored to pre-construction conditions and will be subject to compensation at contractor cost and through written agreement with the landowner, as applicable
302. Mitigation Measures: In case private land is temporarily used during construction compensation will be paid for any loss of crops or the replacement of damaged structures. Most construction will be undertaken during the dry season when few crops are planted. Losses should be minimized during construction.
303. Residual Impact: With adequate compensation for any damages resulting from using private land during construction no residual impacts are to be expected from construction.
Operation stage – neutral impact
304. The likely impacts on land use and settlement patterns are limited. Improved access will lead to increased migration, but this will occur gradually and over a prolonged period. There will be time for expansion of residential areas to be established. There will be a need to control ribbon development.
e. Public infrastructure and utility structures
Design and pre-construction stage – minor negative impact
305. Impact: On the project road, utilities interfere with the ROW at few locations that will have to be shifted/removed prior to construction.
306. Mitigation Measures: Before construction commences a detailed survey has to be carried out in order to list all utilities that will interfere with the road works. These utilities will have to be shifted before the works in close cooperation with the respective owners of the utilities.
307. Residual Impact: With proper preparation no residual impacts are to be expected.
110
Construction stage – minor negative impact
308. Impact: Traffic may experience minor delays when diverted around active construction areas but will be more severely hampered at the locations where temporary road closures are necessary.
309. Mitigation Measures: Such hazard points will have proper signs indicating the nature of the problem envisaged. Contractor will ensure that information on the timing of construction works and notifications of road closure (if any) is provided via the local media (radio, TV, newspaper etc.) or through the local community heads.
310. Residual Impact: With the proper implementation of the proposed mitigation measures the construction of the project is not expected to have a residual impact on public utilities.
Operation stage – neutral impact
311. During the operation stage of the project no impact on public infrastructure and utilities is expected.
f. Noise and disturbance
Design and pre-construction stage – moderate negative impact
312. Impact: The ambient noise level throughout the road section exceeds standards except at some locations. During the construction period, noise will be generated from the operation of heavy machinery, the haulage of construction materials to the construction yard and the general activities at the yard itself. Concrete mixing and material movements will be the primary noise generating activities and will be uniformly distributed over the entire construction period. These construction activities are expected to produce noise levels in the range of 80–95 dB(A) at a distance of about 5m from the source. Cost of standard solid (concrete) noise barriers have been included in the bid documents for sensitive receptors identified during detailed project report preparation.
313. The noise generating equipment used in construction activities is also regulated under Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000.6 The range of typical noise levels in relation to distance from a construction site is shown in Table 50.
Table 50: Construction Noise/Distance Relationship Distance from Construction Site (m) Range of typical Noise Level dB(A) 8 82-102 15 75-95 30 69-89 61 63-83 91 59-79 122 57-77 152 55-75 305 49-69 Source: Department of Transportation, State of Wisconsin (USA)
6 As amended till 10/08/2017 vide S.O. 2555(E) 111
314. Noise and vibration from piling will be unavoidable, but the impact will only be temporary and affect people living or working near piling locations, if involved at location of bridge constructions. The impact and sources of noise are summarized in Table 51.
Table 51: Likely Impact on Noise Quality in the Vicinity of Project Area Impact Source Increased noise levels • Mobilization of heavy construction machinery; causing discomfort to • Accelerations/ decelerations/ gear changes – though the local residents, workers extent of impact will depend on the level of congestion and smoothness of the road surface; and local fauna • Use of blasting to cut into hill sides; • Excavation work for foundations and grading; • Construction of structures and other facilities; and • Crushing plants, asphalt production plants; and loading, transportation and unloading of construction materials.
315. Typical noise levels associated with various construction activities and equipment are presented in Table 52.
Table 52:Typical Noise Levels of Principal Construction Equipment (Noise Level in db(A) at 50 Feet) Clearing Structure Construction Bulldozer 80 Crane 75-77 Front end loader 72-84 Welding generator 71-82 Jack hammer 81-98 Concrete mixer 74-88 Crane with ball 75-87 Concrete pump 81-84 Concrete vibrator 76 Excavation and Earth Moving Air compressor 74-87 Bulldozer 80 Pneumatic tools 81-98 Backhoe 72-93 Bulldozer 80 Front end loader 72-84 Cement and dump trucks 83-94 Dump truck 83-94 Front end loader 72-84 Jack hammer 81-98 Dump truck 83-94 Scraper 80-93 Paver 86-88 Grading and Compaction Landscaping and clean-up Grader 80-93 Bulldozer 80 Roller 73-75 Backhoe 72-93 Truck 83-94 Paving Front and end loader 72-84 Paver 86-88 Dump truck 83-94 Truck 83-94 Paver 86-88 Tamper 74-77 Dump truck 83-94 Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, noise from Construction Equipment and Operations. Building Equipment and Home Appliance. NJID. 300.1. December 31, 1971
112
316. Mitigation Measures: By using noise reduction equipment, the hindrance from construction equipment can be minimized. By planning noise generating activities during daytime only hindrance to local residents can be minimized.
317. Residual Impact: With the proper implementation of mitigation measures the project design is not expected to have a residual impact.
Construction stage – moderate negative impact
318. Impact. The noise levels indicated for various construction activities/equipment, while far exceeding permissible standards of CPCB and IFC EHS for residential areas, will occur only intermittently. Still, these extremely high sound levels present real risk to the health of workers on- site.
319. Residences, schools, health clinics, and other noise sensitive areas within 100 m the roadways will be affected temporarily during construction. The number of persons potentially affected, and the duration of these effects cannot be estimated based on available information.
320. During construction, varying degree of noise impacts are likely to be felt by the communities of main settlements i.e. Vandaiyariruppu, Vaduvoor, and Katoor and other small settlements along the project road. However, the above listed sensitive receptors will be impacted due to increase in noise levels as located near to construction site. Although temporary in nature, the construction noise will affect the most communities living close to the construction zone.
321. The construction activities are introduced in Noise Pollution Rules, 2000 with its amendment in 2017. The maximum limit for noise near the construction site is 75 dB (A) Leq (5 min) in industrial areas and to 65 dB (A) Leq (5 min) in residential and other areas. There are total 24 sensitive receptors identified within 50m from the centre line along the proposed project road as given in Table 36. The noise (existing noise and construction noise) levels during construction is predicted higher than the National Ambient Noise Standards (CPCB limits) and IFC EHS standards as ambient noise level exceeds the limits. As a best construction practices necessary mitigation measures are proposed during each phase of construction activity.
322. Mitigation Measures: In construction sites within 500 metres of a settlement, noisy operations should cease between 22:00 and 06:00 hrs. Regular maintenance of construction vehicles and machinery must also be undertaken to reduce noise.
323. Timely scheduling of construction activities, proper maintenance of construction machineries, use of personnel protective equipment, etc. will minimize these impacts.
324. Noise impacts are an unavoidable consequence of construction that should be mitigated by limiting the times of construction to daylight hours (8am-5pm) in the vicinity of sensitive receptors. Further to minimize noise impacts near sensitive receptors (particularly schools), operation of excavator and other heavy machineries will be carried out mostly during off-hours (7 am to 9 am) and 3.30 pm to 7 pm) and on holidays (Saturday and Sundays). The schedule will be prepared/modified in consultation with the community and relevant local authorities. Baseline noise will be established for all sensitive areas prior to construction and follow up noise monitoring will be carried out during the construction.
325. Implementation of suitable mitigation measures will reduce the construction noise to acceptable limits. Mitigation measures should include: 113
• Installations of noise barriers; • construction machinery should be located away from settlements. If noise levels exceed the prescribed Leq, suitable mitigation measures like using additional silencers in noise generating equipment; erecting additional noise barriers and the use of proper PPEs shall be implemented; • Construction machinery and equipment must be properly maintained and designed with built-in silencers, mufflers and enclosures. This will reduce the noise by 5 to 10 dB(A); • careful planning of machinery operation and the scheduling of such operations, no idling of machinery; • controlled blasting should only be carried out with prior approval from the Engineer in charge; • contractors should be required to fit noise shields on construction machinery and to provide earplugs to the operators of heavy machines; • blasting should be conducted only during day-light hours; and • only controlled blasting should be conducted.
326. Residual Impact: With the proper implementation of the proposed mitigation measures the project construction is not expected to have any significant residual impact.
Operation stage – moderate impact
327. The current low traffic flows along the project road are expected to increase because of improved economic activities associated with better access. The larger numbers of vehicles will be an additional source of noise and gaseous emissions.
328. Federal Highway Administration's Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM) helps for highway traffic noise prediction and analysis. Detailed analysis is presented in Appendix-13. TNM computes highway traffic noise at nearby receivers. As sources of noise, it includes noise emission levels for the following vehicle types:
• Automobiles: all vehicles with two axles and four tires — primarily designed to carry nine or fewer people (passenger cars, vans) or cargo (vans, light trucks) — generally with gross vehicle weight less than 4,500 kg (9,900 lb); • Medium trucks: all cargo vehicles with two axles and six tires — generally with gross vehicle weight between 4,500 kg (9,900 lb) and 12,000 kg (26,400 lb); • Heavy trucks: all cargo vehicles with three or more axles — generally with gross vehicle weight more than 12,000 kg (26,400 lb); • Buses: all vehicles designed to carry more than nine passengers; and • Motorcycles: all vehicles with two or three tires and an open-air driver/passenger compartment.
329. The procedure for prediction of noise levels involves the following steps:
a. Identification of various receivers, b. Determination of land uses and activities which may be affected by the noise generated, c. Assemble input parameters, and d. Application of the model.
330. The description of the components to predict noise level are as follows:
114
• Receivers: TNM calculates the sound levels at the input receivers. • Land Uses: Land use along the road is obtained from the topographic drawings. This information provides the range of shielding and absorption factors to be applied at the various receivers. • Input Parameters: Traffic volume for the projected period is obtained from the traffic projections. The total number of vehicles passing per hour by type - light, medium and heavy along with their average speed is used for predictions. • Average Noise Level: All vehicles produce noise, which is taken as the base, and the cumulative noise at the receiver distance due to the whole traffic is estimated. The average noise level varies depending on the type of vehicle. • Application of Model: Equivalent noise levels due to traffic at the receivers are estimated using Federal Highway Noise model. Equivalent Sound Level (TEQ, denoted by the symbol, LAeqT): Ten times the base-10 logarithm of the square of the ratio of time-average, mean-square, instantaneous A-weighted sound pressure, during a stated time interval, T (where T=t2-t1), and the reference mean-square sound pressure of 20: Pa, the threshold of human hearing, e.g., 1HEQ, denoted by the symbol, LAeq1H, represents the hourly equivalent sound level.
LAeqT = LAE - 10*log10(t2-t1) where LAE = Sound exposure level in dB
331. Sound Exposure Level (SEL, denoted by the symbol, LAE): Over a stated time interval, T (where T=t2-t1), ten times the base-10 logarithm of the ratio of a given time integral of squared instantaneous A-weighted sound pressure, and the product of the reference sound pressure of 20:Pa, the threshold of human hearing, and the reference duration of 1 sec. The time interval, T, must be long enough to include a majority of the sound source’s acoustic energy. As a minimum, this interval should encompass the 10 dB down points.
Table 53: Annual Average Daily Motorized Traffic Data Year 4W LCV Truck Bus 3W 2W 2020 5786 9143 13532 19068 5786 9143 2025 1080 1321 1576 1836 1080 1321 2030 2741 3449 4216 5032 2741 3449 2035 1328 1889 2551 3350 1328 1889
Table 54:Equivalent Background Noise levels Equivalent Noise Levels in dB(A) DAY NIGHT 64.16 54.22
Table 55:Predicted Noise Levels along the Project Road Day LHS RHS 200 100 50 20 10 10 20 50 100 200 2020 64.2 64.5 65.6 68.2 70.0 70.0 68.2 65.5 64.4 64.2 2025 64.3 64.7 66.1 69.3 71.3 71.2 69.3 66.0 64.6 64.3 2030 64.3 64.9 66.7 70.4 72.5 72.5 70.4 66.6 64.7 64.3 2035 64.4 65.1 67.3 71.5 73.7 73.7 71.5 67.3 64.9 64.4 115
Night LHS RHS 200 100 50 20 10 10 20 50 100 200 2020 54.9 56.9 61.1 66.4 68.9 68.9 66.4 60.9 56.5 54.9 2025 55.2 57.7 62.4 67.9 70.5 70.4 67.9 62.2 57.2 55.2 2030 55.5 58.6 63.7 69.3 71.9 71.9 69.3 63.5 58.0 55.5 2035 55.9 59.4 64.9 70.7 73.3 73.3 70.7 64.8 58.8 55.9
332. The IFC Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines – “General EHS Guidelines (Environmental Noise Management”) and the World Health Organization (WHO, 1999) states that noise levels from a project should not result in a maximum increase in background levels of 3 dB(A) at the nearest receptor location off-site.
333. The Indian standard requires noise levels for the 12 hour Leq-dB(A) not to exceed 65 dB(A) and 55 dB(A) at commercial building during the daytime and at nighttime respectively. This is also the IFC standard. Indian standards require noise levels for the 12 hour Leq-dB(A) not to exceed 55dB(A) in daytime and not to exceed 45dB(A) nighttime at residential property.
334. From Table 55, it is observed that predicted noise levels (Leq) near the receivers within 100m from the centre line of the road are found higher than desired levels for the respective landuse categories. The baseline noise levels (2019) are already higher than the permissible limits of CPCB for different landuse categories for day and night. The predicted levels based on noise modelling show increase in noise levels for future years at all receivers considering increase in traffic volume. The incremental noise levels for future years exceeds the allowable limit of 3 dB(A) from the baseline levels. Mitigation measures suggested in EMP such as installation of noise barriers should be adopted for the sensitive receptors falling within 100m centre line of the road corridor. The detailed noise assessment and prediction is presented in Appendix 13.
335. Mitigation Measures: The incremental noise levels for future years exceeds the allowable limit of 3 dB(A) from the baseline levels. There are several measures that can be explored for the road, particularly along sensitive land uses such as solid noise barriers, establishment of greenbelt along the road edge, imposing speed limits, use of noise reducing pavements along built up portions, noise insulation of sensitive receivers, among others. One or a combination of these measures may be able to bring down the noise within acceptable range. These measures can be incorporated in the final detailed engineering by the contractor after consultation with affected persons so that the most suitable mitigation measures are considered. For example, solid noise barriers can reduce noise by 8–9 dB which will bring noise levels down within permissible limits, but these can be obstructive especially along market areas or storefronts where sensitive receptors may also be located. The final measures considered should be reviewed and approved by the CSC and the PIU.
g. Vibration
Design and pre-construction stage – neutral impact
336. Existing ambient vibration levels at the sensitive receptors are low. Any impact on structures by means of vibration will be generated during the construction phase of the project, regardless of the design chosen.
Construction stage – moderate negative impact
116
337. When the ground is subject to vibratory excitation from a vibratory source, a disturbance propagates away from the vibration source. The ground vibration waves created are similar to those that propagate in water when a stone is dropped into the water. The duration and amplitude of vibration generated by construction equipment varies widely depending on the type of equipment and the purpose for which it is being used. The vibration from blasting has a high amplitude and short duration, whereas vibration from grading is lower in amplitude but longer in duration. In assessing vibration from construction equipment, it is useful to categorize the equipment by the nature of the vibration generated.
338. Review of available literature indicates that there is limited information available on vibration source levels from general construction equipment. The most comprehensive list of vibration source amplitudes is provided in the document entitled Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment (Federal Transit Administration 2006).
Table 56: Vibration Generated from Different Construction Equipment Reference PPV at 25 ft. Equipment (in/sec) Vibratory Roller 0.21 Large Bulldozer 0.089 Caisson Drilling 0.089 Loaded Trucks 0.076 Jackhammer 0.035 Small Bulldozer 0.003 Sources: Federal Transit Administration 2006 (except Hanson 20017 for vibratory rollers)
339. Using these source vibration levels, vibration from these equipments can be estimated by the following formula:
n PPVEquipment =PPVRef (25/D) (in/sec)
Where: PPVRef = reference PPV at 25 ft. D = distance from equipment to the receiver in ft. n = 1.1, attenuation rate(8)
340. International Guidelines and Standards present criteria for vibration related building damage in the form of threshold levels of vibration (peak particle velocity), as either a value or range of values. Key factors in determining these levels are as follows: • the nature of the building including its construction, its condition, and whether is of historic importance; • the likely extent of damage i.e. cosmetic, minor structural or major structural; and • whether the source of vibration is continuous or a single event and the dominant frequency (Hz).
7Peck R B, Hanson W E and Thornburn T H (1974). Foundation Engineering. John Wiley and Sons, New York. 8WOODS, R.D. and JEDELE, L.P., 1985. Energy-attenuation relationships from construction vibrations. American Society of Civil Engineers, Proceedings of ASCE Symposium on Vibration Problems in Geotechnical Engineering, Detroit, Michigan, G. Gazetas and E.T. Selig, Editors, pp. 229-246. 117
Table 57: Building Vibration Damage Assessment Criteria Building Cosmetic Assumed Source Vibration Damage Building Building Description Reference for Damage Threshold ppv Coupling Criteria Risk Level (mm/s) Loss Extremely fragile historic buildings, ruins, ancient 2 Caltrans/BART n/a monuments Fragile buildings of clay High Risk A construction with shallow (<1m) 3 Caltrans 1 rubble footings Fragile buildings of clay High Risk B construction with concrete 3 Caltrans 0.5 foundations/footings Residential brick built on Medium BS 7385/DIN concrete foundations/footings 10 0.5 Risk 4150 and light commercial Heavy commercial, industrial BS 7385/DIN Low Risk 25 0.5 and framed buildings 4150
341. Impact. The values of vibration generated from the operation of various equipment in construction of project road are below the threshold ppv (mm/s) as mentioned in Table-57. However, vibration during construction may induce cracks and damages to structure next to road alignment particularly overhead water storage tanks and identified buildings or sensitive receptors.
342. Mitigation measures. For the structures within 4.5m (as vibration impacts from construction equipment’s beyond this limit will be insignificant) from road edge, suitable mitigation measures should be adopted to minimize the vibration levels. In case any structure is weak, a pre-construction survey of the building shall be done in detail by the Contractor, witnessed by the CSC as well as the property owner. Vibration monitoring will be carried out at weak structures during construction and additional mitigation measures will be installed in case measured vibration levels (peak particle velocity) exceed 3 mm/s for very sensitive buildings or 5 mm/s for residential structures per DIN 4150-3 threshold. Signed documents and photographic records will be kept as evidence to protect both the owner as well as the project from spurious claims.
343. A wave barrier is typically a trench, or a thin wall made of sheet piles or similar structural members. The purpose of a barrier is to reflect or absorb wave energy, thereby reducing the propagation of energy between a source and a receiver. The depth and width of a wave barrier must be proportioned to the wavelength of the wave intended for screening.
344. Adverse human response to construction vibration can be mitigated by good communication between the contractor and local residents. If occupiers of dwellings are informed of their nature, duration, and potential vibration effects prior to the works, then adverse response will be less. Generally, the main concern relating to construction vibration is of damage to property and if this is not likely to occur, then this point should be made clear to residents.
345. Residual Impact. With the proper implementation of the proposed mitigation measures the construction of the project is not expected to have a residual impact due to vibration.
Operation stage – minor negative impact
118
346. Impact. Because vehicles travelling on highway are supported on flexible suspension systems and pneumatic tires, these vehicles are not an efficient source of ground vibration. They can, however, impart vibration into the ground when they roll over pavement that is not smooth. Continuous traffic travelling on a smooth highway creates a fairly continuous but relatively low level of vibration. Where discontinuities exist in the pavement, heavy truck passages can be the primary source of localized, intermittent vibration peaks. These peaks typically last no more than a few seconds and often for only a fraction of a second. Because vibration drops off rapidly with distance, there is rarely a cumulative increase in ground vibration from the presence of multiple trucks. In general, more trucks result in more vibration peaks, though not necessarily higher peaks. Automobile traffic normally generates vibration amplitudes that are one-fifth to one-tenth the amplitude of truck vibration amplitudes. Accordingly, ground vibration generated by automobile traffic is usually overshadowed by vibration from heavy trucks.
347. Mitigation measures. Because vibration from vehicle operations is almost always the result of pavement discontinuities, the solution is to smoothen the pavement to eliminate the discontinuities. This step will eliminate perceptible vibration from vehicle operations in virtually all cases.
348. Residual impact. The impact of vibrations due to road traffic will be negligible given the highway pavement is maintained at good condition.
h. Occupational health and safety
Design and pre-construction stage – neutral impact
349. No impacts on occupational health and safety are expected to arise from the design phase of the project. Road design proposed standards are consistent with the parameters recommended in the relevant standards of the IRC and are detailed in Chapter III of this report.
Construction stage – moderate negative impact
350. Impact. Transportation incidents accounted for majority of fatal roadway worksite incidents.9 In India, Tamil Nadu has recorded the highest rate of road accident fatalities at 23 fatalities/lakh persons.10 As such, particular attention to transportation-related work hazards should be given under the project. Among other construction-related risks in highway projects are:
• falls and slips due to uneven surfaces, edges of elevated ground with no proper barricading; • struck-bys falling debris or flying objects; • caught-in-betweens due to rotating equipment or unguarded parts of construction machinery; and • electrocution risks while carrying out work or residing in campsites
351. The construction camps are anticipated to house up to 200 people for about two years. With this concentration of people, the potential for the transmission of diseases and illnesses will increase. The main health and safety risks during construction will arise from:
• inadequate sanitation facilities in worker camps; • inherent risks of construction workers;
9 https://www.dbkrieginc.com/onsite-work-safety.php; data taken from US Bureau of Labor Statistics 10 Policy Research Studies (PRS) Legislative Research, India. https://www.prsindia.org/policy/vital-stats/overview-road- accidents-india 119
• introduction of sexually transmitted, and other diseases, by immigrant workers; and • outbreaks of malaria, typhoid, cholera etc. amongst the labour force; and given the current COVID-19 pandemic there is also a risk of construction workers being exposed to this and other communicable viral diseases, particularly given construction is directly within the community and the transient nature of the construction workforce.
352. Mitigation measures. The following shall be followed before, during, and after construction activities, as applicable:
• The Contractor will be required to conduct workplace risk assessment to identify potential risks to workers. • The Health and Safety Officer shall also conduct regular training on health and safety. • The contractor is responsible for instituting measures and procedures to maintain cleanliness and order in campsites and construction sites. • The Contractor will provide facilities such as dust bins and collectors for the temporary storage of all waste. This waste should be adequately stored to avoid pollution of water supplies and water sources and to avoid dust formation. • The Contractor will be responsible for the safe removal and/or storage of all waste in order to prevent environmental pollution of any type that may be harmful to people or animals. • All necessary safeguards should be taken to ensure the safety, welfare and good health of all persons entitled to be on the sites and to ensure that works are carried out in a safe and efficient manner. • All personnel working at vulnerable site locations will wear safety helmets and strong footwear (OSHA recommended PPE). • It should be ensured that all workmen and staff employed on site use proper safety equipment – for example, eye protectors, ear plugs, safety helmets, the designated safety equipment when working over water – and that proper rescue equipment is available. • Fire extinguishers and first-aid equipment will be kept at all sites. • Additional health and safety protocols for prevention and control of the spread of COVID 19 and other communicable diseases shall be put in place in accordance with local/national guidelines and international best practices. • To ensure safe construction, lighting devices and safety signals shall be installed and traffic rules and regulations to be strictly followed. • The electrical equipment should be checked regularly to avoid risks to workers. Adhere to strict schedule for completion of road works and avoid prolonged construction and disturbance. • Implement SEMP Sub-plans (e.g. Health and Safety Plan, Traffic and Road Management Plan, Camp Management Plan). • Provide barricade fencing to mitigate trespassing. • Provide barricade to temporarily enclose open excavated slopes/foundations. • Provide sufficient lights, clear warning signs and danger signals. • Assign security personnel to prevent accidents. • Warning signs and cones will be installed in and around the work site and along haul roads, with clearly marked danger zones. • Safety flags and flag persons will be used, as needed. • Record of incidents/accidents/near-miss/fatalities associated with the project will be maintained.
120
• Records of issues raised will be maintained in accordance with the project GRM. • Outreach to local communities and information disseminate e.g. on project implementation schedule, health & safety and ERPs will be provided via information disclosure and meaningful consultation activities) in local language in the project area of influence.
353. The following actions will be undertaken at construction camps and stipulated in construction contracts:
• submit and obtain approval for a health and safety plan prior to the commencement of work; • provision of adequate health care facilities and healthcare staff; • ensure adequate security is provided to construction staff on site and at worker accommodation; • workers will be required to undergo pre-employment medical screening and treatment (if required) and periodic health checks thereafter; and • For COVID-19 related health and safety risk, the contractor will be required to prepare and implement a COVID-19 Action Plan.11
354. The project will support a public health education programme for workers and villagers covering road safety, hygiene, malaria and other endemic diseases, and communicable diseases such as COVID-19 and sexually transmitted diseases. The district health departments will also be invited to participate in monitoring and educating communities and workers affected by the project.
355. Residual impact. With proper implementation of the proposed mitigation measures the residual impact on occupational health and safety is expected to be low.
Operation stage – neutral impact
356. No impact on occupational health and safety is envisaged during operation phase of the project. Road safety features are included in the project design as discussed in Chapter III of this report.
i. Community health and safety and local resources
Design and pre-construction stage – neutral impact
357. No impacts on community health and safety are expected to derive from the design phase of the project. Improving overall safety during operation is a major consideration in the design of the road. Road safety features are included in the project design as discussed in Chapter III of this report.
Construction stage – moderate negative impact
11For COVID-19 national restrictions for containing the spread of COVID-19 must be complied with and in developing the health and safety management plan Government of India (https://www.mygov.in/covid-19) and World Health Organization guidance (https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/technical-guidance) should be followed ensuring adequate sanitation and welfare facilities including for hand washing and personal protective equipment are provided to construction workers. Given the specialist nature of responding to COVID-19 public health officials/experts are to be consulted.
121
358. Impact. Construction camps may put stress on local resources and the infrastructure in nearby communities resulting to people raising grievances. This sometimes leads to conflict between residents and migrant workers. The construction activities may also potentially result in adverse impacts to community health and safety such as construction traffic and accidents, and accidental spills of liquid materials. There are also chances of exposure to communicable diseases from migrant workers.
359. Mitigation measures. To prevent problems between construction workers and the local communities, the contractor should provide the construction camps with facilities such as health care clinics, places of worship, and occasional entertainment. During construction, benefits to local people can be maximized if the contractor recruit construction workers locally regardless of gender. Contractor should also not discriminate in the employment of women. The contractor will be required to develop a community health and safety plan which will also include emergency response and preparedness procedures.
360. The project will support a public health education programme for workers and villagers covering road safety, hygiene, malaria and other endemic diseases, and communicable diseases such as COVID-19 and sexually transmitted diseases. The district health departments will also be invited to participate in monitoring and educating communities and workers affected by the project.
361. Residual impact. With proper implementation of the proposed mitigation measures no residual impact is expected on the community health and safety
Operation stage – moderate negative and positive impact
362. The improvements of the project road are expected to benefit the socio-economic conditions of communities in and around the project area. Improved access and reduced travel time and cost will be major stimuli to economic growth, health and education, particularly in rural areas. Better access of agricultural goods to market will be important and a major contributor to poverty reduction. These benefits are likely to have a positive impact on community health. Some risks associated with improved road such as accidents etc. are however anticipated. Implementation of road safety measures will minimize these risks. Section 10 under Design Standards of Chapter III deals with traffic safety features, road furniture, road markings and other facilities which shall contribute to increased safety, not only for vehicles but also pedestrians and other road users. Geometric and sight distance improvement considered in the road designs used during bidding are also meant to improve fundamental features of the road to increase safety.
j. Physical and Cultural Resources
363. There are no adverse impacts anticipated on historical places/monuments. However, there are few small shrines along the road. Care must be taken to clearly identify these structures before construction and avoid any damage to these structures. If necessary, these structures maybe moved after carrying out proper consultation with the local community people. Earthworks, as associated with the road construction/improvement works, or deriving from secondary sites such as quarries or borrow pits, may reveal sites or artefacts of cultural/archaeological significance. In the event of such discovery, the concerned authorities should be informed and the requirement to take such action should be incorporated in contract documents.
G. Induced and Cumulative Impacts
364. According to the ADB Environment Safeguards Sourcebook, Cumulative Impacts are described as: “The combination of multiple impacts from existing projects, the proposed project,
122
and anticipated future projects that may result in significant adverse and/or beneficial impacts that cannot be expected in the case of a stand-alone project.” The sourcebook also describes Induced Impacts as: “Adverse and/or beneficial impacts on areas and communities from unintended but predictable developments caused by a project, which may occur at later or at a different location.
365. The road upgrading will improve the travel speed and travel condition along the project road corridor and is expected to generate a road user cost saving and this will result in additional traffic generation along the corridor. Currently there is no other information on future development projects along the project road. Hence, it is difficult to assess other cumulative impacts from other projects which may get implemented in the project area.
366. The improved road is expected to increase transport through the project region but is unlikely to trigger exponential development in this region. Setting up few new industries and increase in trade volume though cannot be ruled out. Noise and air quality impacts due to increased traffic volume are also envisaged. Mitigation measures are available for noise impacts while air quality impacts are considered insignificant. As such no significant induced environmental impact is anticipated due to proposed project activity.
H. Expected benefits from the Project
367. The immediate benefits of road construction and improvement will come in the form of direct employment opportunities during construction for the roadside communities engaged as wage laborer, petty contractors and suppliers of raw materials. During operation stage, road-side economic activities supporting transport like gasoline stations, automotive repair shops, lodging, and restaurants will increase due to increased number of vehicles. The project road section is part of connecting industrial zones to enhance transportation services for raw material and products. Increase in agro-industrial activities are also expected to take advantage of improved access to urban centers where there are higher demands and better prices for agricultural products. Project will accelerate the economic opportunities resulting in reduced migration. Other benefits of project road improvement are: (i) reduction in travel time, (ii) better mode and frequency of transport, (iii) access to quality health care, educational, and other infrastructural facilities (iv) improved quality of life of rural population, and (v) better investment climate for industries creating more employment opportunities for local people. 123
VI. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES
368. This chapter presents the feasible alternatives to the proposed project with respect to site, design, technology etc. Since, the proposed project is an improvement of the existing road, no alternative alignments were considered for alternate route. Hence, an evaluation has been carried out for the ‘with’ and ‘without’ project situation-in terms of the potential environmental impacts for the justification of the project. This chapter discusses how environmental parameters were assigned due importance and were carefully considered in the analysis of alternatives.
A. ‘With Project’ and ‘Without Project’ Scenario
(i) ‘With Project’ Scenario
369. The ‘with project’ scenario includes the widening of road section to two-lane carriageway with paved shoulders configurations of the existing road section of Thanjavur - Mannargudi (State Highway 63) in Tamil Nadu. The ‘with project’ scenario has been assessed to be economically viable and will alleviate the existing conditions. It would thereby, contribute to the development goals envisaged by State Government, and enhance the growth potential of the state through Chennai-Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor (CKIC) as well as the region.
370. To avoid the large-scale acquisition of land and properties, the project envisages the widening of existing road to two-lane to two lane with paved shoulders configuration and mostly along the existing alignment to minimize the loss of properties and livelihood of the PAPs.
(ii) ‘Without Project’ Scenario
371. In the case of ‘without project’ scenario the existing road with narrow carriageway width will be considered as it is. Considering the present traffic volume and potential for growth in near future, the capacity of the present road is insufficient for handling expected traffic volume and calls in for immediate improvements.
372. The existing road section has poor riding condition, poor drainage conditions and poor geometry. Poor drainage is seriously impacting and deteriorating the road surface. The poor road conditions, population growth, increase in traffic volumes and the economic development along the project corridor would further exacerbate the already critical situation. The existing unsafe conditions and the adverse environmental consequences, in terms of the environmental quality along the roads, would continue to worsen in the absence of the proposed improvements.
373. Therefore, the no-action alternative is neither a reasonable nor a prudent course of action for the proposed project, as it would amount to failure to initiate any further improvements and impede economic development. Keeping in view the site conditions and the scope of development of the area, the ‘With’ and ‘Without’ project scenarios have been compared as shown in Table 58. By looking at the table it can be concluded that “With project” scenario with positive/beneficial impacts will vastly improve the environment and enhance social and economic development of the region compared to the “Without project” scenario, which will further deteriorate the present environmental setup and quality of life. Hence the “With project” scenario with minor reversible impacts is an acceptable option than the “Without project” scenario. The implementation of the project therefore will be definitely advantageous to achieve the holistic development of the economy and progress of the State.
123 124
Table 58: Comparison of Positive and Negative Impacts of ‘With’ and ‘Without’ Project Scenario With Project Without Project Impacts Impacts +ve -ve +ve -ve Environmental Aspects • With the improvement of road surface and • Reduce in air pollutants emission Nil • Increase in travel time. slope protection measures, the traffic • Minor change in topography is • Increase case of landslide and soil congestion due to obstructed movement of expected due to construction of erosion. vehicles will be minimized and thus wastage of embankments. • Increase in fuel consumptions. fuel emissions from the vehicles will be • Minor changes in land use • Increase in dust pollution and reduced. pattern. vehicular emission. • Providing better level of service in terms of • Land degradation, dust pollution and improved riding quality and smooth traffic flow. damage to pastureland, contamination in water bodies due to vehicles travelling along multiple tracks on the open ground. • Reduced transportation costs. • Increase in air pollution due to Nil • Project road will further deteriorate. vehicular traffic. • Possible increase in air pollutants due • Increase in noise pollution due to to poor road conditions and increased vehicular traffic during traffic construction work. • Short term increase in dust due to earth work during construction at micro-level. • All industrial corridor access reliability. • Removal of vegetative cover • Plantatio • Aged trees will removed with due along the road due to loss of n of trees period trees. as part of • Impacts of flora and fauna. compens • Diversion of area of revenue land. atory afforestat ion • Reduction in erosion of elevated Nil Nil • Increase in erosions due to poor embankments. conditions of protection works • Creation of sedimentation problems in water bodies. • The widened and paved road will reduce • Nil Nil • Increased adverse impacts on soil impacts due to multiple tracking on soil and erosion and loss of vegetation cover. vegetation along the road. 125
With Project Without Project Impacts Impacts +ve -ve +ve -ve Socio-economic Aspects
• Increased access to markets. • Loss to properties and livelihood. Nil • Increased vehicle operation cost.
• Access to new employment centers. Nil Nil • Reduced employment/ economic opportunities. • Employment to local workers during the Nil Nil • Arrest of possible significant execution of the project. enhancement and economic development of the region. • Better access to part of the district as the Nil Nil • Increase in accident rate. project road is a lifeline of industrial area of the • Overall economy of the State will be district. affected. • Will reduce accident rate. • Deep impact to human health in • Tourism will flourish case of emergency. • Better access to health care centres and other social services. • Improved quality of life. • Strengthening of local economies. Nil Nil • In absence of the project, it is extremely difficult to generate funds for such a massive improvement of the road infrastructure from its own resources. • Reduction in travel time and development of the Increase in speed may lead to Nil • Hamper the development of the area. important places of in in the districts of accidents in congested areas. Thanjavur and Thiruvavur of Tamil Nadu State.
126
B. Location and Alignment Alternatives
374. The existing road section is a state highway under strategic location for industrial area development and State Government has planned to implement this road from industrial corridor development, economy and trade perspective. Therefore, no alternate location was considered for this project.
375. The selection of a particular alignment is a difficult process that is seldom clear or straightforward. In this section the principal differences among the feasible alternatives for road segment are considered in regard to potential environmental impacts alongside length, cost and communities provided access.
376. No alternative alignments were assessed as part of the Thanjavur - Mannargudi section of SH-63.
377. The improvement of existing state highway section was determined to be the best possible alignment. This alignment has following advantages over any other alternate alignment option:
• It follows existing alignment for entire section. • Land to be taken from private parties is less compared to new alignment, if proposed. • Land requirement for road passing through ESZ of Bird sanctuary is less, in fact in opposite side of protected area. • Cost of construction is lower for 2-lane with paved shoulders configuration road.
C. Alignment Modifications due to Environmental Considerations
378. The selection of the alignment/widening options along various sections has been worked out based on continuous interaction between the engineering design team and environmental study teams. Various alignment improvement alternatives (left/right) for the project road have been analyzed along entire project road considering rural sections, alignment at junction improvements. The factors considered for evaluation of alternatives are:
• Flora and fauna likely to be impacted; • Productive agricultural land likely to be impacted; • Impact on water resources and surface water bodies; • Environmental quality; • Land availability; • Land uses along the alignment; • Residential / Commercial structures Impacted; • Utilities likely to be impacted; • Common property resources likely to be impacted; and • Religious structures affected.
D. Engineering/Technological Alternatives
379. The formulation and analysis of engineering alternatives have been undertaken in terms of alternative cross-sections of road, highway-design principles (such as embankments for soil erosion and slope protections, excavation, minimum width of road ride drainage, adequacy of roadway width at cross drainage structures, minimum gradient, etc.), flexible pavements, and selection of environmentally friendly road construction methods. 127
380. The final alignment considered after detailed survey and design is about 27.585 km in length. There is no bypass but 3 minor realignments along the project road are proposed for improvement under the project.
128
VII. CONSULTATION, PARTICIPATION AND INFORMATION DISCLOSURE
A. Meaningful Consultation
381. In accordance with ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS) 2009 meaningful consultations were held early and throughout the project development stages to allow the incorporation of relevant views of the stakeholders in the final project design, mitigation measures, implementation issues, and enhance the distribution of benefits. All the five principles of information dissemination, information solicitation, integration, co-ordination, and engagement into dialogue were incorporated in the consultation process. The analysis of environmental impacts from the projects was strengthened and modified based on opinions of all those consulted, especially in the micro level by setting up dialogues with the village people from whom information on site facts and prevailing conditions were collected. The requirement of public consultation during the implementation of the project has been proposed as part of the mitigation plan.
B. Objectives of the Consultations
382. Stakeholder’s consultations were held with intent to understand their concerns, apprehensions, overall opinion and solicit recommendations to improve project design and implementation. Informal meetings, interviews were organized covering the entire project design stage. Consultations provide affected people a platform to ensure incorporation of their concerns in the decision-making process and foster co-operation among officers of CKICP, the community and the stakeholders for smooth implementation of the projects.
383. The discussions were designed to receive maximum inputs from the participants regarding their acceptability and environmental concerns arising out of the project. They were given the brief outline of the project to which their opinions were requested particularly in identifying and mitigating any potential adverse impact.
C. Methodology for Consultations
384. Consultation with the stakeholders, beneficiaries, and community leaders were carried out using standard structured questionnaires as well as unstructured questionnaires. Questionnaire survey/ discussions were designed to obtain background information and details of general environmental issues that concern people in the project areas. In addition, environmental issues were discussed with relevant organizations, government officials, beneficiaries, community leaders and experts. Aside from these, personal discussions with officials, on site discussion with affected stakeholders, and reconnaissance visits have also been made to the project areas.
385. The public consultation meeting was organized at Vaduvoor and Kattur to disseminate the information regarding widening and strengthening of road SH 63 from km 0+000 to 27+585. It involved a total of 114 participants, 105 males and 9 females. The community consultation with locals were organized with prior information and details of place and timing after permission from district authorities. The fixed venue for consultation was sanitized with the help of concerned area health care service office. The social distancing during consultation and other facilities including temperature check, hand sanitizer and use of mask was made mandatory for all the participants. Table 59 show the details of the public consultations carried out along road section.
129
Table 59: Details of the Public Consultation Name of Proposed No. of participants Venue Villages Covered the Road Date and
Stretch Time M F T SH – 63 02.06.2020 Vandayarirupp Surakottai, Kattur 14 4 18 Between 12:00 am u Bus shed, Village, Vandayar km 0+000 Kattur& Iruppu, Thuraiyundar to km Chinnapulikudi Kottai, Sadaiyar kovil, 27+585 kadu Panayakottai, Neivasal, 07.07.2015 Vaduvoor Vaduvoor, Edakeelaiyur 91 5 96 (Tuesday) Panchayat Serumangalam 10:00 am Community Hall, Vaduvoor Total 105 9 114 Source: Field surveys during DPR preparation, 2020 and 2015
C.1 Project Stakeholders
386. All types of stakeholders were identified to ensure as wide a coverage as possible.
• Residents, shopkeepers and business’ people who live and work along the road specially the project affected persons • All type of road users/commuters • Executing Agency, Construction Supervision Consultant and Implementing NGOs • Other government institutions whose remit includes areas or issues affected by the project (state environment and forest department, Pollution Control Board (PCB), Irrigation Department, Public Health Engineering (PHED) Department, and • The beneficiary community in general.
C.2 Consultation with Government Departments
387. Various officials consulted during IEE preparation included State Forest Department, Department of Environment, Urban Development and Tamil Nadu State pollution control board for air, noise and water quality information, IMD for the climatic data, statistical officer for population and demographic profile, panchayat department for village level information, Survey of India for the toposheet requirement, revenue department for the land record information, PHED officers for hand pump relocation and quality assessment, electricity board offices for electric pole shifting etc.
388. These departments helped to provide various project related data and information which helped preparation of reports and data analysis.
C.3 Consultation with Local People and Beneficiaries
389. The informal consultation generally started with explaining the projects, followed by an explanation to potential impacts. Participant’s views were gathered with regard to all aspects of the environment which may have direct or indirect impact on local people. Key Issues discussed were:
• Awareness and extent of the project and development components;
130
• Benefits of the project for the economic and social upliftment of community; • Labour availability in the project area or requirement of outside labour; • Local disturbances due to project construction work; • Necessity of tree felling etc. at project sites; • Impact on water bodies, water logging and drainage problem if any; • Environment and health aspects; • Flora and fauna of the project areas, and • Socio-economic standing of the local people.
390. The project has immense acceptability among the local people. They perceive that in addition to providing all weather connectivity, the project road will bring positive socioeconomic changes in the area. Local people mainly discussed on the issues related to rehabilitation, resettlement, and road safety issues. The list of participant’s view and outcome of the consultation have been summarized in Table 60.
Image- Community Consultation at DPR Image-Division Engineer at Community preparation Consultation
Interaction with individuals during Community Consultation at DPR preparation
131
Individuals register concerns at community consultation
391. The details of participants and public consultation attendance list are attached in Appendix 14. In addition, information on the GRM procedures and formats in local language i.e. Tamil was shared with the local people.
Table 60: Summary of Issues Discussed and Measures Taken S. Views/Queries of the Responses by TNHD Participants No. Participants Officials 1 Mr. Murugavel asked how In urban location 16m is Total Participants: 96, much land will be acquired for required i.e. both side 8m Male Participants: 91, widening the road. from the centerline of existing Female Participants: 5 road and 23m is required in rural location. i.e. both side 11.5 m from the centerline of existing road. Expect at locations of curve improvement. 2 Mr. Gunasekaran suggested As per the traffic study report, that considering bypass the bypass not warrant in proposal at Vaduvoor instead terms of economically, of acquiring buildings socially and environmentally. Hence bypass is not provided at Vaduvoor.
132
S. Views/Queries of the Responses by TNHD Participants No. Participants Officials 3 Mr. Nadarajan said many Width of 16m required for shops and residential widening at built-up location. buildings are located very In Vaduvoor built-up location near to the existing road, the available existing ROW is hence we are abject the 12 to 15m, so minimum proposal of widening of road impact will be there. As per at Vaduvoor. Consider the traffic study report, the bypass option at Vaduvoor bypass not warrant in terms of village. economically, socially and environmentally. So bypass not provided at Vaduvoor. 4 Mr. Rathinavel asked If the This proposal is widening and road is proposed for widening strengthening by adding then it will be converted from paved shoulder on both side SH to NH? of the existing road. There is no proposal for connecting into NH as of now. 5 Public asked whether Poor geometry location and accident prone area in sharp accident prone area are curves having poor visibility. identified and improved to the Either sharp curves are standards to avoid accident improved or not? and achieve design speed also. 6 Public asked when this Start of the project depends project work will be started. on availability of fund. 7 Mr. Palanisamy asked any Yes, drainage facilities will be drainage facilities will be provided on either side of the provided? road. Concrete lined drain in the urban area and Earthen drain in rural or open area.
8 Public raised the question Boundary stones located by that stone located either side highways disturbed over a with H/D marking can be period. The boundary of patta taken as boundary of land is known to the owners. highways. 9 Public expressed that how Once the alignment can they find whether their finalization. Land acquisition building or land is falling process will start based on within the widening boundary. final alignment. Notification will be published for affected lands as per land acquisition act. 10 Nirmala asked I don’t have Encroachments will not be patta to my house which is paid. near to the road edge and have been living for more than 10 years. Either I will get compensation or not. 133
S. Views/Queries of the Responses by TNHD Participants No. Participants Officials 11 Public has expressed that Speed restriction humps will there are frequent accidents be provided wherever occur in the existing road; required and road will be laid hence widening of road with with all safety features. speed control would help reducing accidents. 12 Mr. Kumar asked whether All utilities like OFC cable, electric line and drainage waterline, EB line, lamp post pipe in the existing road will etc., will be shifted to the be demolished due to this edge of proposed ROW. widening development
392. Most of the people interviewed were well aware of the environmental conditions in and around their villages. A major percentage are not aware of any foreseen deterioration in the air and noise quality due to expansion of existing highway. The villagers are quite enthusiastic about the proposed project as it will give fillip to rural economy and present them many employment opportunities during construction of project road. Overall positive approach towards the project is observed.
C.4 Results of Consultation with Local People
393. Most of the people interviewed strongly support the project work. The people living in the entire project area expect the different project elements to facilitate transport, employment, tourism, boost economic development and thereby provide direct, or indirect, benefits to them. In order to access the existing environment and likely impacts on surrounding population, an interview survey was carried out. A priority of the population was interviewed through a designed questionnaire. Precaution has been exercised during the survey to ensure that the priority interviewed is truly representative of the affected groups and the questions are worded so as not to generate a bias response.
394. Overall, most of the people interviewed strongly support the project. The people living in the entire project areas expect the different project elements to facilitate transport, employment, tourism, boost economic development and thereby provide direct, or indirect, benefits to them. Construction camps may, however, put stress on local resources and the infrastructure in nearby communities. In addition, local people raised construction-process related grievances with the workers. This sometimes leads to aggression between residents and migrant workers. To prevent such problems, the contractor should provide the construction camps with facilities such as proper housing, health care clinics, proper drinking water and timely payment. The use of local laborers during the construction will, of course, increase benefits to local peoples and minimize these problems. Wherever possible, such people should be employed.
D. Interaction with NGOs
395. In order to get independent views on the likely impacts of the project, non-government organizations at local as well as regional level were consulted during the IEE process. Aspects such as conservation activities, presence of flora and fauna, likely project impacts and possible mitigation measures were discussed and views and suggestions from these NGO’s were incorporated in the EMP. Consultation will continue with these NGO’s during project implementation and operation.
134
E. Public Disclosure and Further Consultations
396. The TNICP will be responsible for the disclosure of this IEE in compliance to ADB’s Access to Information Policy 2019 and ADB’s SPS 2009. The IEE will be disclosed in the English language in the office of TNICP. The report will also be made available to interested parties on request from the office of the TNICP. Since this is Category B project, this IEE report will be disclosed to the public through the ADB and CKICP websites. This IEE report will also be made available to all stakeholders as part of the consultation process required under the SPS 2009.
397. Prior to finalization of detailed engineering design, the contractor, with the assistance of the PIU should consult affected persons along sensitive receptors identified during survey on structural and institutional mitigation measures for impacts such as, but not limited to, noise. Further, project consultations will be organized by the FIU in coordination with CSC and with the presence of representatives from the contractor. These should be done at least quarterly during construction period. Targeted consultations with women and/or women groups and other vulnerable groups will be conducted to the extent feasible.
135
VIII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM
398. Project grievance redress mechanism (GRM) will be established to evaluate and facilitate the resolution of affected persons concerns, complaints, and grievances related to social and environmental issues of the project. The GRM will provide a time-bound and transparent mechanism to voice and resolve social and environmental concerns linked to the project.
399. GRM information: Information on the availability of GRM shall be disclosed to public through the TNICP website and through information boards by TNICP along the project road. The setup GRM shall have the system of records keeping of details such as contact details of complainant, date of the complaint received nature of grievance, etc. for the project road and shall take necessary action to address the complaint. The concerned grievance redress committee (GRC) will determine the merit of each grievance and resolve grievances within an outer time limit of three months of receiving the complaint. All complaints determined to be within the purview of land acquisition, rehabilitation and resettlement will be dealt with under the LARR GRC detailed in the RPs. Otherwise, all other social and environmental related complaints will be coursed through the grievance redress process detailed below.
400. Grievance Redress Process: The grievance redress process will be a two-tier process for both LARR and all other project-related complaints. In case of grievances that are immediate and urgent in the perception of the complainant, the contractor and Construction Supervision Consultant (CSC) on-site personnel will provide the most easily accessible or first level of contact for quick resolution of grievances. Contact phone numbers and names of the concerned Divisional Engineer, Assistant Environment Specialist, contractors, and CSC will be posted at all construction sites at visible locations. The PIU safeguard officers will be responsible to see through the process of redressal of each grievance.
(i) 1st Level Grievance: The Regional level Project GRC will be chaired by the concerned Divisional Engineer and would comprise the Assistant Environment Specialist, Project Manager of EPC contractor and Resident Engineer of CSC concerned. The Regional level GRC can immediately resolve relatively simple, on- site concerns and grievances in consultation with each other. Grievances at this level will be addressed within 7 days of receipt of a complaint/grievance. (ii) 2nd Level Grievance: All grievances that cannot be redressed within 7 days at the Regional level will be reviewed by the State level Project GRC. It will serve as appellate authority and will be chaired by the Chief Engineer and will comprise the Superintending Engineer concerned, Environment Specialist, Team Leader of CSC concerned, Project Manager from Project Management Services of CSC-01 and Authorized Representative from EPC contractors, as needed. The State level GRC will attempt to resolve them within 3 weeks.
401. Complaints Register with EPC Contractor: The contractor shall keep and maintain a complaint register report at their site office along the project road as well as project facilities like construction camp, labour camp etc., for public to register their complaints. The EPC Contractor, after taking necessary action based on the complaint, will also incorporate the same in the complaint register. This report will also be part of the monthly report, to be submitted to the Regional GRC and for CSC to monitor and take necessary action, if needed. It is to be noted that, inaction upon the complaint of the public will be considered as a major lapse from the side of the EPC contractor, leading to invoking of penalty clause which is given in bid document/EMP.
136
402. Despite the project GRM, an aggrieved person shall have access to the country's legal system at any stage and accessing the country's legal system can run parallel to accessing the GRM and is not dependent on the negative outcome of the GRM. The GRCs will continue to function throughout the project duration including the defects liability period. The schematic of the GRM is presented in Figure 24.
Figure 24: Grievance Redress Mechanism
Affected Person
Regional Level Grievance Resolved 1st Level Redress & Responsible: DE, Asst. Env. Specialist,
Grievance PM EPC Contractor, RE CSC Record Keeping 7 days 7days
Not Resolved
State Level Grievance nd Resolved 2 Level Redress & Grievance Responsible: Chief Engineer, SE, Env.
3 weeks 3weeks Specialist, TL CSC, PM PMS of CSC-01, Record Keeping
EPC contractor representative
Not Resolved
Court of Law
137
IX. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
A. Introduction
403. The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is the synthesis of all proposed mitigation and monitoring actions, set to a timeframe with specific responsibility assigned and follow-up actions defined. It contains all the information for the proponent, the contractor and the regulatory agencies to implement the project within a specified timeframe.
404. This EMP consists of a set of mitigation, monitoring and institutional measures to be taken for the project to avoid, minimize and mitigate adverse environmental impacts and enhance positive impacts. The plan also includes the actions needed for the implementation of these measures. The major components of the EMP are:
• Mitigation of potentially adverse impacts; • monitoring of EMP implementation during project construction and operation; and • Institutional arrangements to implement the EMP.
B. Objectives of Environmental Management Plan
405. The main objectives of this EMP are:
• To ensure compliance with Asian Development Bank’s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009, and regulatory requirements of the Government of Tamil Nadu and India; • To formulate avoidance, mitigation and compensation measures for anticipated adverse environmental impacts during construction and operation, and ensure that environmentally sound, sustainable and good practices are adopted; • To stipulate monitoring and institutional requirements for ensuring safeguard compliance; and • The project road should be environmentally sustainable.
C. Environmental Management Plan Matrix
406. The EMP matrix provided in Table 61 follows the environmental impacts and proposed mitigation measures for the identified valued environmental components (VECs) identified and discussed in Chapter V. The matrix provides an implementable plan with recommended mitigation measures for each anticipated impact and also assigns responsibilities for implementation, supervision and monitoring.
407. The EMP matrix also includes actions and measures to mitigate and compensate for ecological impacts identified in the biodiversity assessment focusing on eco sensitive zone of the VBS along the project road alignment. Recommended mitigation measures from biodiversity assessment have been integrated into the overall project EMP provided in Table 62.
D. Environmental Monitoring and Reporting Program
408. The environmental monitoring program has the underlying objective to ensure that the intended environmental mitigations are realized and these results in desired benefits to the target population causing minimal deterioration to the environmental parameters. Such program targets proper implementation of the EMP. The broad objectives are:
138
• To evaluate the performance of mitigation measures proposed in the EMP. • To evaluate the adequacy of environmental assessment. • To suggest ongoing improvements in management plan based on the monitoring and to devise fresh monitoring on the basis of the improved EMP. • To enhance environmental quality through proper implementation of suggested mitigation measures. • To meet the requirements of the existing environmental regulatory framework and community obligations.
409. The EMOP matrix covering various performance indicators, frequency and institutional arrangements of the project in the construction and operation stages, along with the estimated cost, is summarized in Table 63. Key features of the EMOP are described in the following paragraphs.
410. Performance Indicators. The significant physical, biological and social components affecting the environment at critical locations serve as wider/overall Performance Indicators. However, the following specific environmental parameters can be quantitatively measured and compared over a period of time and are, therefore, selected as specific Performance Indicators (PIs) for monitoring because of their regulatory importance and the availability of standardized procedures and relevant expertise.
• Air quality with respect to PM2.5, PM10, CO, NOx and SO2 at selected location. • Water quality with reference to pH, DO, BOD, Oil and grease, COD, suspended solids, total dissolved solids, total solids, chlorides, turbidity and alkalinity at crossing points on rivers/streams at selected points. • Noise and vibration levels at sensitive receptors (schools, hospitals, community/religious places). • Survival rates of trees planted as compensatory plantation to compensate for removal of roadside trees.
411. Ambient Air Quality (AAQ) Monitoring. Ambient air quality parameters recommended for monitoring road development projects are PM2.5, PM10,, Carbon Monoxide (CO), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) and Sulphur Dioxide (SO2). These are to be monitored, right from the commencement of construction activity at selected locations of plants and machinery, crushers on sites, excavation works etc. Data should be generated quarterly excluding monsoon at the monitoring locations in accordance with the revised National Ambient Air Quality Standards formulated by MOEFCC in 2009 and IFC EHS standards (Appendix 4).
412. Water Quality Monitoring. The physical and chemical parameters recommended for analysis of water quality relevant to road development projects arepH, DO, BOD, Oil and grease, COD, total Suspended Solids, total dissolved solids, total solids, chlorides Turbidity and Alkalinity. The location, duration and the pollution parameters to be monitored and the responsible institutional arrangements are given in the Environmental Monitoring Plan. The monitoring of the water quality is to be carried out at locations identified along the project road during construction and operation phase. The Indian Standard Specifications – IS10500: 1991 and IS 2296:1992 are given in Appendix 3.
413. Noise Level Monitoring. The measurements for monitoring noise levels would be carried out at sensitive receptors and construction sites along the project road. The Ambient Noise Standards prescribed in the Noise pollution (Regulation and Control), Rules 2000 issued by the MOEFCC, GoI as well as IFC EHS noise standards will be followed. Sound pressure levels would be monitored on a 24-hour basis. Noise should be recorded at “A” weighted frequency using a 139
“slow time response mode” of the measuring instrument. Differences between IFC EHS and MOEFCC daytime and nighttime periods should be accounted for in establishing baseline noise levels prior to start of works.
414. Success of Re-vegetation. The project involves widening and up-gradation including construction of cross drainage structures hence these will require felling of trees. Such lost vegetation will be required to be replaced by compensatory plantation. As per policy of the State Government 10 trees have to be planted for each tree removed. These compensatory plantations will have to be monitored for 70 % survival rate for 3 years in the maintenance period by the implementing agency with the help of the Forest Department. Such monitoring will be conducted through random samples. Such sampling should cover at least 5% of the area planted up.
140
Table 61: Environmental Management Plan Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component A. DESIGN AND PRE-CONSTRUCTION STAGE I. Physical environment 1. Surface water - Disruptions to the - Maintain natural courses of rivers and streams EPC contractor PIU/CSC quality and natural hydrology - Identify temporary diversions required and ensure quantity - Worsening of that these are restored to their natural course as - Construction of erosion problems soon as possible culverts and - drainage structures to be properly designed to bridges. accommodate forecast discharges; - side drain waters must be discharged at every available stream crossing to minimize volume and prevent erosion at discharge point; - provide lined drainage structures; and - where an increased discharge of surface water endangers the stability of the water outlet, erosion protection measures such as bioengineering measures, ripraps, and check dams are incorporated - in areas with high water tables, seepage may occur, and side drains and up-slope catch drains must always be lined to avoid percolation
2. Land degradation - Permanent - Optimization of the centre line so that PIU PIU/CSC and pollution changes in the embankment raised on both sides; - Road widening and local-level - Temporary and permanent drainage systems to related earthworks; topography and minimize soil erosion; - Collection, appearance of the - Optimum siting and control of quarries; and quarrying and use project site. - mechanized construction methods. of stone, - Slope failure at - Minimize land take for development aggregates and quarry sites; - Optimize balance between cut and fill and avoid sand. - Road side deep cuts and high embankments to minimize - Construction of instability due to earthworks sharp curves stone collection; - Maximize reuse of spoils and old asphalt paving - The construction of material within the construction sharp curve may - Agree on spoils disposal sites, management and add to instability in rehabilitation plan with relevant local agencies 141
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component raised - Specify vegetation that serves specific embankment. bioengineering functions. - Aggregates will be sourced from licensed local quarries; - Sand will be taken from quarries or riverbeds after prior permission from competent authority; - every new quarry and borrow area is subjected to a site-specific environmental investigation according to an approved plan; - new quarry and borrow areas must be left in a safe condition or restored to a productive land use; - borrow areas are not established in ecologically sensitive areas / borrow area should not be established within one km from the boundary of the sanctuary and should obtain necessary permission from competent authority. - villagers are consulted in regard to the design and location of all borrow areas – these should ensure the safety of local communities and, if possible, should incorporate beneficial post construction features for the villages; - borrow areas must be located away from the road and hill slopes as well as settlements facing the road, so as to minimize visual impacts. - Earth cut materials will be maximized for reuse in backfilling on the same rural road to minimize the quantities of borrow materials and spoil disposal.
II. Biological environment 3. Trees and - Loss of 1174 trees - Ensure no removal of vegetation and width of PIU/EPC PIU/CSC vegetation existing in the RoW road expansion in ESZ of VBS to the extent contractor - Clearing of possible. vegetation from mostly natural
142
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component habitat areas for - Widening is restricted to minimum width in the hill cutting and length passing in ESZ ofVBS. Widening is other road proposed on the other side of the VBS; improvement - In the VBS area, before removing a tree, check works; on the presence of birds’ nests and if present, - Removal of trees move the nest to a nearby tree; - the road improvement works will adopt Environmentally Friendly Road Construction (EFRC) methods and should minimise environmental impacts from inadequate drainage and/or slope failures and should assist in maintaining, or repairing, tree cover; - Mandatory compensatory afforestation program for plantation11740 trees (@1:10) within the project area where possible, resulting in the improvement of roadside green belt development. - The plantation under compensatory afforestation plan will be scheduled within 15 months of the construction works, as preparation of seedlings in the approved nursey will start with commencement of construction work for the project road
4. Fauna - Disturbance of Bird - Widening is proposed on the other side of the EPC contractor/ PIU/ CSC - Location of the habitat VBS, except at the location of curve improvement PIU road in potential - Mortality due to to avoid land acquisition. flyway zone of poaching and - In the VBS area minimize the construction migratory birds accidents activities in the months when migratory birds are - Location of the not there; road in ESZ of - Design of landscape plan for the road section in VBS triggering ESZ of VBS in coordination with sanctuary critical habitat (CH) management. due to the - Undertake pre-construction survey for presence of the BirdCensus and Habitat identification to update near-threatened biodiversity conservation and management plan migratory black- accordingly. 143
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component headed ibis in - Implement the additional measures provided in significant numbers the biodiversity action plan (Appendix 16): in the project area - Incorporation of noise barriers in the of influence improvement plan to mitigate increase in noise levels due to increased traffic once the road is improved - Construction of these barriers prior to any improvement works along the ESZ to ensure that disturbance due to construction noise is minimized further 5. VBS and other - Loss of habitat due - Only expand road on side away from VBS. EPC Contractor PIU/CSC ecologically to intentional loss - Minimise removal of vegetation and width of road important areas of vegetation expansion in VBS eco-sensitive zone to the extent - Location of the cover. possible. project road inside - Degradation of - Compensate for any loss of trees, prioritising the ESZ of Bird habitat from native species used for nesting by Black-headed sanctuary and IBA hydrological Ibis. (Important Bird changes - Ensure no drainage from road through bunds into Area) VBS - Ensure that the bund next to the road is in good repair before starting construction - Ensure road drainage and camber in the sanctuary’s eco-sensitive zone directs any run-off towards the edge of the road away from the sanctuary - Implement the additional measures provided in the biodiversity action plan (Appendix 16). III. Social environment 6. Private land and - Resettlement of - A separate resettlement plan is prepared to FIU/LARR PIU/LARR buildings people; address these issues in compliance with Right to implementation Monitoring - Road widening - Acquisition of 3.71 Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Consultancy Consultancy ha. of land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, - Relocation/impact 2013 and ADB SPS 2009. of 148 nos. of private structures and 15 nos. of
144
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component (Community property resources)CPR - (No.of structures mentioned above are tentative) 7. Public property/ - Temporary - Before construction commences a detailed survey EPC Contractor CSC/ PIU infrastructure/ outages of public has to be carried out in order to list all utilities that utility structures utility services will interfere with the road works; - Shifting of electric - Together with the respective owners of the utilities lines, water pipes, plans will be prepared how and when these sewage lines, gas utilities will be shifted before the works pipes and telecom commence. lines - Access to adjacent properties and agricultural land will be maintained, as necessary. - Any damage to areas and infrastructure outside the agreed work sites (Corridor of Impact assessed in project RP) will be restored to pre- construction conditions and will be subject to compensation at contractor cost and through written agreement with the land owner, as applicable. 8. Noise and - Increased noise - Prior to finalization of detailed engineering design, EPC Contractor CSC/PIU disturbance levels causing the following must be done: - Operation of discomfort to local - Survey of sensitive receptors (sensitivity, construction residents, workers distance from edge of the proposed road, equipment and and local fauna baseline noise levels) machinery, hauling - Consultation with affected persons on noise of materials and abatement measures (e.g. preference blasting works for/location and design of noise barriers, reduction of speed limits, etc.) - Planning of location, duration of noise-generating activities and equipment, particularly along sensitive land uses - Use of noise reduction equipment; 145
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component - Planning noise generating activities during daytime. 9. Vibration - Possible cosmetic - Pre-construction survey and documentation of EPC Contractor CSC/PIU Operation of damage to very structures to determine weak structures that need vibration rollers sensitive buildings monitoring during construction during construction 10. Air quality - Temporary - The contractor shall obtain Consent from the EPC Contractor CSC / PIU - Crushers , Hot localized increase Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board(TNPCB) for MixPlants& in levels of dust the establishment and operation of crusher, Batching plants and air pollutants Batching plant and hot mix plant as per the includingSO2, NOx proceedings & guidelines laid down by the and HC TNPCB. 11. Health and safety - Construction - For all construction works comply with EPC Contractor CSC/ PIU (H&S) activities causing Government of India rules and regulations for the - Operation of health and safety protection of workers. construction risks to workers - For all construction works undertake risk equipment and and communities. assessment and prepare H&S plan in accordance machinery, hauling with IFC EHS Guidelines for clearance by CSC of materials and and PIU, considering occupational and blasting works community H&S and including adherence to emergency preparedness and response plan with communication systems and protocols to report an emergency situation. - In undertaking H&S risk assessment and planning adequate attention to be given to the risks associated with transportation/vehicles and with COVID-19 pandemic and other communicable viral diseases. - National restrictions for containing the spread of COVID-19 must be complied with and in developing the health and safety management plan Government of India (https://www.mygov.in/covid-19) and World Health Organization guidance (https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-
146
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component coronavirus-2019/technical-guidance) should be followed. - Contractor to ensure adequate sanitation and welfare facilities including for hand washing and personal protective equipment are provided and to consider the ability of communities to comply with protective measures such as regular handwashing and for the local health care facilities capacity to deal with any infections. - Emergency preparedness and response plan to deal with situation should any construction worker or community member be diagnosed with COVID- 19 during the course of the works. - Given the specialist nature of responding to COVID-19 public health officials/experts to be consulted in undertaking the risk assessment and management planning for COVID-19. - Contractor to conduct regular training (including refreshers) on occupational health and safety for all construction workers. To include training for PIU and all Contractor management and construction workers including subcontractors before commencement of works. - Contractor to conduct training of workers on emergency preparedness and response procedures in case of an occupational or community health and safety incident during construction works. B. CONSTRUCTION STAGE I. Physical environment 1. Air quality and - Temporary - Regular watering of road surfaces, exposed spoils EPC Contractor CSC/PIU GHGs localized increase - regular check-up and maintenance of construction - Operation of in levels of dust equipment; construction and air pollutants - idling of engines shall be strongly discouraged; 147
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component equipment and includingSO2, NOx - mixing plants i.e. asphalt, concrete, and bricks, machinery; and HC should be operated within the permissible limits of - Emissions from CPCB and IFC EHS, and located away from brick, concrete and settlements; asphalt plants; - the contractor will submit a dust suppression and - Haulage and control programme to the CSC prior to stockpiling of construction – this plan details actions to be taken materials; to minimize dust generation and identify - Controlled equipment to be used; earthworks. - vehicles delivering loose and fine materials should be covered with tarpaulin to reduce spills and speed limits should be imposed; - no unauthorized burning of C&D waste materials;; - controlled blasting should be carried out and such only with the prior approval of the site Engineer and, if required, PIU; - bitumen emulsion should be used wherever feasible; - bitumen heaters should be used, the use of firewood is prohibited - ambient air quality monitoring shall be done regularly at representative sensitive locations to ensure that all the emissions from construction activities are within CPCB and IFC EHS standards and therefore ensuring the effectiveness of mitigation measures taken. - 2. Surface water - Soil erosion and - maintain adequate vegetative cover above and EPC Contractor CSC/PIU quality and downstream below the road; quantity turbidity at bridge - maintain the natural course of water bodies (as - Use of surface locations much as possible) and no throwing debris, C&D water for - Soil erosion due to spoils into water bodies; construction and changes in natural - chemicals and oils are stored in secure, domestic use drainage systems. impermeable containers, and disposed of well - Rehabilitation of - Pollution due to away from surface waters; existing bridges use and
148
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component - Siltation and maintenance of - no vehicle cleaning activity is allowed within 300 erosion impacts construction m of water bodies/drains; - Use and equipment; - construction camps are equipped with septic maintenance of - Pollution caused tanks; construction by labour camps - the work on bridges and culverts is limited to dry equipment - construction site seasons, when many of the smaller streams will - Labour camps runoff, wastewater have low water - water diversion works can be discharge, etc minimised and the original course restored immediately after the work has been completed; - construction establishments such as construction camps, labor camps, asphalt/concrete mixing stations, stone crushing units should be located away from the water bodies. Domestic and sewage wastes from labor camps shall be treated with a sewage treatment system (septic tanks) to comply with the standards specified by CPCB and WBG before disposal. Testing of effluent has to be done in accordance with the rules and regulations of CPCB and SCPB - drivers are made aware of diversions and other works at bridge construction site to avoid accidents; - all debris and vegetation, clogging culverts must be regularly cleared, and - Prior to use of surface water by workers it has to be established the water quality meets the standards for drinking water. Also regular monitoring of the quality shall be done. 3. Ground water - Groundwater - Construction water requirement (avg. 200KLD EPC Contractor CSC/PIU quality and abstraction and and peak 300 KLD) will be met through local quantity potential impacts surface water sources and other canals in the - Operation of labour on local sources project area. Domestic water requirement (30 camps, temporary - Groundwater KLD) for workers will also be met mainly through construction sites abstraction and local streams and fuelling potential impacts - Sewage generated at labour camps should be stations on local sources disposed of in an environmentally sound manner. 149
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component - Pollution of - construction camps should be equipped with groundwater at sanitary mobile toilets or toilets with treatment sites where and disposal arrangement by means of septic process water or tank followed by soak pit that do not pollute wastewater is ground water generated and - Locations for fuelling and/or maintenance should disposed of in an be fitted with impervious flooring and a drainage improper manner. system connected to an oil/water separator and settling tank to treat sewage before being discharged. - The layout of labour camps and construction sites should comply with the requirements in appendix 8: Plant Management and appendix 9: Camp Site Management of the IEE. - Domestic water requirement (30 KLD) for workers will also be met through approved sources only. Necessary permits will be obtained prior to water abstraction and only when there is no other viable option so as not to compete with local domestic demand. - Water abstraction will be included in monitoring.
4. Land - Scarring of - Sites for quarrying, borrowing and disposal of EPC Contractor CSC/PIU degradation/ landscape and spoils are to be confirmed according to the pollution potential potholes applicable laws and regulations in the state and - Road construction in raised the practices followed in recent/ongoing through plain embankment; internationally funded road projects. terrain with raised - Dirty and - Major excavation and earthworks should only be embankment in low unattractive area undertaken during the dry season; laying area; due to presence of - Embankment grades should not be too steep; - Cutting and filling waste materials; - The existing vegetation on slopes outside the of low laying area - Soil erosion might immediate area of construction must remain for road lead to clogging of undisturbed during construction and/or upgrading; improvement side drains, leading - Embankment raised slopes should be provided works to spill-over of with turfing immediately after widening activities rainwater runoff;
150
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component - Disposal of cut soil, - Improper restored - Bioengineering techniques will be used to prevent debris and waste abandoned spoils, barren slopes and to stop soil erosion; at improper quarry and borrow - Support structures will be installed where slope locations areas can lead to failures are anticipated or may have occurred - Operation of quarry soil erosion and previously; and borrow areas vector borne - logging immediately above road should be diseases due to restricted to reduce erosion/landslide potential; stagnant water. - quarrying along road ROW should be restricted; - Excavated material should be used in the construction works as much as possible, otherwise it has to be disposed of at proper disposal sites. The management of debris and spoils has to comply with the requirements in Appendix 10: Debris and Spoils Disposal Management given in the IEE. - Mitigation measures for quarry sites are: • Aggregates will be sourced from licensed operational quarry sites that comply with environmental and other applicable regulations on labour, dust suppression and the use of environmentally friendly quarrying techniques; • regular monitoring of the quarries by concerned authorities to ensure compliance with environmental management and monitoring measures; - Mitigation measures for borrow areas are: • Demarcation of the actual extent of area to be excavated; • borrow pit plant and machinery will conform to CPCB/SPCB and IFC EHS noise emission regulations; • protective gear will be provided to the workforce exposed to noise levels beyond threshold limits and there should be proper rotation of such personnel; and 151
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component • all operation areas will be water sprinkled to control dust levels to national ambient air quality standards. • borrow areas are provided with gentle side slope that are connected to the nearest drainage channel to avoid the formation of cess pools during the rainy season: - To mitigate the impacts of possible fuel spills the following measures will be applied: • secondary containment around fuel tanks and at fuelling stations will be built; • oil and fuel spills, and other runoff from contaminated areas will be controlled; and • equipment and fuel depots will be placed in safe zones away from drinking water sources and canal and lake; • the project will provide an opportunity to assist the PIU and contractors in improving fuel handling practices so as to minimize future fuel spillage.
Other measures on land and C&D disposal: - Any temporary lands required for labour camps or any other sites required for the project shall be transferred back to the owner after the land has been restored to its original state before the completion of construction works. - Contractor has to collect baseline data on the quality of ambient air, ambient noise, soil, surface water and groundwater before establishing and after decommissioning the camps or sites. - excavated material shall be stockpiled and covered in such a way the soil will not erode away and should be used to widen the road or disposed of at proper disposal sites following spoil disposal management guidelines (Appendix 10).
152
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component - Removal of bituminous wastes from existing roads should not be disposed of in nearby water bodies, open spaces and parks and wastes should not be left unmanaged on the roadsides. - Bituminous material should be examined for PAH to establish if it can be recycled / reused for road construction. If not, the bitumen shall be treated as hazardous waste and disposed of in pre-identified and approved disposal sites. - Any construction and demolition waste generated during the construction phase should be managed in accordance with the C&D Waste Management Rules, 2016. - As far as possible, demolition and construction waste should be segregated and recycled. - The unserviceable waste left after recycling should be dumped in pre-identified and approved pits as per Construction & Demolition Waste Management Rules. All required permissions shall be obtained from the concerned authorities before disposal of the debris. - cut slopes should be re-vegetated immediately after widening activities. - cut material should be disposed of in suitable depressions.
To mitigate the impacts of possible fuel spills the following measures will be applied: - secondary containment around fuel tanks large enough to hold the entire contents of the tank and an additional ten percent and at fueling stations will be built; - oil and fuel spills, and other runoff from contaminated areas will be controlled; and 153
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component - equipment and fuel depots will be placed in safe zones away from drinking water sources and riverbanks;
Quarry, borrow, and spoils disposal sites must comply with the requirements in appendices 10-12 given in the IEE
II. Biological environment 5. Trees and - Spread of invasive - Avoid introduction of new invasive species to, and EPC Contractor/ CSC/PIU vegetation species by spread of existing invasive species within, the - Clearing of construction project area, captured in an Invasive Species vegetation for road vehicles and Management Plan, which, at the minimum, shall improvement machinery and include: works; transport of earth - washing of vehicles, equipment and supplies - Removal of 1174 and construction before entry to the Project area trees material/debris - monitoring for invasive species; and - Loss of 1174 trees - control/eradication of invasive species where - Temporary Loss of found habitat for bird - Prohibit cleaning of construction fauna. vehicles/equipment within 300 m of - Degradation of waterways/drains vegetation due to - all wood building material for workers’ housing timber/firewood should be brought from outside the project area; collection - workers should be supplied with non-wood fuels such as kerosene or liquefied petroleum gas for the duration of the contract; - Use cuttings in construction; dispose of unsuitable cuttings away from Natural Habitat/water body - Immediately plant native grass on cut slopes to reduce erosion - Prohibit collection, sale or purchase of timber/firewood by staff and contractors, with heavy penalties applied - Re-vegetation of tree cut from road side;
154
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component - Support plantation of native species as prioritized in the management plan of VBS. - Habitat enrichment activities such as planting of native tree and horticulture species will be carried out in collaboration with the Forestry Officials 6. Fauna - disruption of birds - Use only existing licensed quarries outside for EPC Contractor CSC/PIU/Forest - Road widening movement and sourcing aggregates Department activities within the habitat for - Avoid borrow pits in areas of Natural Habitat and ROW, along the migratory bird within 200 m of waterways ESZ of VBS species not - Only undertake earthworks during the dry season - Use of construction triggering CH - Train staff and contractors in good environmental equipment; - degradation of practice, and prohibited activities - Presence of labour aquatic habitat - In ESZ of VBS road construction works will be camps during construction allowed only April to September timing from from 8.00am till 6.00pm. Also restrict construction sedimentation, works in the ESZ of VBS to the non-migratory dust, sewage, or season (April to September) only (Project stretch other construction along ESZ) waste - Road signs will be posted on both sides of the - degradation of road before in ESZ of VBS area to caution habitat from travellers of possible dangers of collision with bird hydrological and to limit travelling speed. Exact location of changes signage posting will be determined by Biodiversity - increase in human Specialist along with Environmental Specialist in conflicts in bird consultation with the Wildlife Warden; sanctuary area - Apply 20-30 km/hr speed limits for construction - mortality of birds vehicles in VBS individuals due to - Ensure contractors supply all necessary food, vehicle collision cooking fuel and appropriate housing - Displacement of - Restrict construction works in the ESZ of VBS to species due to the non-migratory season only noise, presence of - Maintain natural courses of canal and streams machinery and - Restrict bridge construction works on canal to the equipment and dry season in order to limit hydrological changes, presence of erosion and runoff from construction areas 155
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component construction - Restore temporary diversions to their natural workers. courses as soon as possible - Injury and mortality - Prohibit siting of construction camps and disposal of fishes due to of construction waste within 500 m of waterways underwater - Noise generating equipment like DG set, construction noise compressors and construction machinery will be equipped with acoustic enclosures and/or mufflers; - If any wild animal (except birds) comes within 100m from the construction site, construction works must immediately stop and resume only after the wild animal has moved away. - No construction or labour camps will be allowed close to the VBS area. - The contractor will clearly brief the construction workers on strict forestry rules on illegal harvesting of forest products, poaching of wildlife and illegal fishing; - Employment agreements should specify heavy penalties for illegal hunting, trapping and wildlife trading all other ancillary works should also agree not to participate in such activities; - Contractor will ensure supply of all necessary food items, cooking fuel and proper housing to prevent illegal hunting and tree felling; - Strict anti-poaching surveillance measures need to be implemented, especially during project construction phase in the areas of VBS.
7. VBS and other - Accumulation of - water sprinkling should be properly and regularly EPC Contractor CSC/PIU ecologically dust on the undertaken, so that dust deposition problem on important areas surrounding vegetation is minimised; - road construction vegetation; - all contract equipment and plants should be activities; - increased tree cleaned to the satisfaction of the CSC in charge cutting for prior to their relocation to project sites;
156
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component - the cutting for firewood, - all necessary wooden building material should be earthworks; construction brought from outside the project area; - quarrying, timber, forage and - workers should be supplied with non-wood fuels preparation and other products such as kerosene or liquefied petroleum gas for transfer of stone - cutting of1174 the duration of the contract. chips. trees within ROW - Implementation of additional habitat improvement resulting in loss of activities – with plantation in surrounding of tree cover Vaduvoor Lake as per Management plan and - Disturbance of community development plan for sustainable micro level agriculture practices in the immediate vicinity of ecological balance VBS to achieve a net gain of biodiversity.
III. Social environment 8. Private land and - Traffic may have to - Financial compensation for loss of crops or EPC PIU/CSC/ buildings be diverted across replacement of damaged structures. Contractor/LARR LARR - Temporary road private land - After completion of the construction works the Implementation Monitoring diversions adjacent to the used land will be reinstated to the state it had Consultancy Consultancy road. before commencement of the works. - Access to adjacent properties and agricultural land will be maintained, as necessary. - Any damage to areas and infrastructure outside the agreed work sites (Corridor of Impact assessed in project RP) will be restored to pre- construction conditions and will be subject to compensation at contractor cost and through written agreement with the landowner, as applicable. 9. Public property/ - Hinder and - Proper signs indicating the nature of the EPC Contractor CSC/PIU infrastructure/ nuisance for road hazard/activity envisaged; utility structures users. - Contractor will ensure that information on the - Traffic diversions timing of works and notifications of road closure (if and temporary any) is provided via the local media (radio, TV, road closures newspaper etc.) or through the local community heads.
157
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component 10. Noise and - extremely high - Installation of 3m noise barriers; EPC Contractor CSC/PIU disturbance sound levels - Provision of proper PPEs for on-site workers; - Operation of present real risk to - In construction sites within 500 metres of a construction the health of settlement, noisy operations should cease equipment and workers on- site; between 22:00 and 06:00 hrs machinery, hauling - sensitive areas - To further minimize noise impacts near sensitive of materials and within 100 m the receptors (particularly schools), operation of blasting works roadways will be excavator and other heavy machineries will be affected carried out mostly during off-hours (10:30 am to temporarily; 3.30 pm) and on holidays (Saturday and - construction noise Sundays). in consultation with the community and will affect the most relevant local authorities. communities living - Regular maintenance of construction vehicles and close to the machinery; construction zone - Noise generating equipment and construction machinery will be equipped with acoustic enclosures and/or mufflers; - Timely scheduling of construction activities and communication to affected receptors; - Use of noise barriers where necessary. - Baseline noise will be established for all sensitive areas prior to construction - Follow up noise monitoring will be carried out during the construction.
11. Vibration - Model study shows - Use of wave barriers where structures are within EPC Contractor CSC/PIU - Operation of buildings/structures 4.5m from the edge of the road; mainly overhead vibration rollers within 4.5m from water storage tanks along the road alignment during ground edge of the road - Timely inform occupants of dwellings near the preparation will have major edge of the road of the nature, duration and impact of potential vibration effects of the works vibrations; - Model study shows sensitive receptors will encounter moderate impact of
158
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component vibrations due to construction equipment 12. Occupational - Increase in the - Contractor must control the construction site, EPC Contractor CSC/PIU health and safety potential for the keep it clean and provide facilities such as dust - Housing of up to transmission of bins and collectors for the temporary storage of all 200 people for diseases and waste; about two years illnesses; - The Contractor will be responsible for the safe - Work in hazardous - Accidents and removal and/or storage of all waste in order to conditions incidents due to prevent environmental pollution of any type that hazardous working may be harmful to people or animals; conditions - All personnel working at vulnerable site locations will wear proper PPE like (but not limited to) safety helmets, eye and ear protection and strong footwear; - Contractor must ensure that proper rescue equipment, fire extinguishers and first-aid equipment is available at all work locations at all times; - Contractor must submit and obtain approval for a health and safety plan prior to the commencement of work, provide adequate health care facilities and arrange pre-employment medical screening and treatment (if required) and periodic health checks thereafter for employed personnel; - support a public health education programme for workers and villagers covering road safety, malaria, hygiene, and sexually transmitted diseases with participation of the district health departments; - construction workers to be given medical check- up including checks for COVID-19 symptoms before being allowed on site; - provide PPE for workers in accordance with Building and other Construction Workers Act, 159
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component 1996 requirement and Recommendation of Personal Protective Equipment According to Hazard in EHS Guidelines on OHS with additional PPE provided as needed for COVID-19 risks; - ensure employees are able to take time off sick without being penalized, including any self- isolation for COVID-19 that is required. - The used face mask for COVID-19 should be properly collected from the workers/ labours and same shall be handed over to the local body to dispose through Common Bio Medical Waste Treatment and Disposal Facility 13. Community - Conflict between - the contractor should provide the construction EPC Contractor CSC/PIU health and safety community and camps with facilities such as health care clinics, - Presence of labour migrant workers places of worship, and occasional entertainment; camps - Contractor should maximize recruitment of local construction workers regardless of gender; - Contractor will ensure affected communities are pre-informed of emergency procedures included in the agreed community health and safety plan and as appropriate given proximity of residents to works included in their mock drills etc. - contractors staff and local communities will also be given awareness raising in COVID-19, HIV/AIDS, other communicable diseases, and sexual, exploitation, abuse and harassment with strict penalties (e.g. immediate removal from site) for any non-compliance of workers to an agreed code of practice - display posters to promote handwashing and respiratory hygiene etc. - wherever possible, the contractor should not discriminate and should proactively encourage the employment of suitably skilled women on the project.
160
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component
C. OPERATION STAGE I. Physical environment 1. Air quality and - Increased levels of - Proper and regular maintenance of roads to EPC Contractor PIU GHGs emission of typical minimize air pollution due to reanimation of dust - Increase in traffic transport related from the road volume pollutants (PM 2.5, - Atmospheric PM10, CO, SO2 dispersion and NOx) modelling shows that the project is not likely to cause air pollution in concentrations exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standards of CPCB as well as IFC EHS standards in the next 20 years. In fact, the project has been shown to decrease GHG compared to BAU levels with increased road width and better road conditions. - 2. Surface water - Unexpected - Periodic surveillance for 2 years to check on EPC Contractor PIU quality and erosion and siltation of major water bodies due to the quantity siltation in major completed road works - Functionality of water bodies implemented 161
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component mitigation measures
II. Biological environment 1. Trees and - low survival rate of - Monitor the tree plantation of 11740 trees. Take EPC Contractor PIU / CSC terrestrial trees planted remedial measures to ensure minimum 70% vegetation - Poor performance survivability rate after Seven years - Status of tree of habitat - Check the effectiveness of additional habitat cover improved improvement improvement activities (tree plantation in the under the project to activities surrounding bunds of Vaduvoor lake and achieve net gain of community development and awareness plan in terrestrial vicinity of the sanctuary) and make adjustments vegetation and revisions to improve effectiveness. - Implement the additional measures provided in the biodiversity conservation and management plan (Appendix 6).
2. Terrestrial fauna - Displacement of - Regulate against stopping alongside the road in EPC Contractor PIU / CSC - Effectiveness of species due to the ESZ of Sanctuary, except in emergencies, implemented noise from normal advised by warning signs mitigation traffic or - Apply 20-30 km/hr speed limits for construction measures maintenance vehicles in ESZ of Bird Sanctuary activities - Install speed breakers and warning signs on both - Increased side of road before VBS poaching from - Periodic surveillance and maintenance works to increased traffic ensure that the green belt in the ESZ of sanctuary through the area. area and measures for soil erosion are effective - Mortality of to control water pollution individuals due to - Implement the additional measures provided in vehicle collision the biodiversity conservation and management - Unforeseen plan (Appendix 6). human-animal - conflicts
III. Social environment
162
Activity/Valued Negative Impact Mitigation Measure Responsibility Environment Implementation Supervision Component 1. Noise - Unexpected - Constructing/instituting of additional noise EPC Contractor PIU - Increase in traffic hindrance abatement measures such as noise barriers at volume experienced by sensitive receptor locations sensitive receptors 2. Vibration - Nuisance - Periodic maintenance of pavement to eliminate EPC PIU - Road use by heavy experienced by the discontinuities Contractor/PIU trucks occupants of dwellings near the edge of the road 3. Community - Risk of accidents - Monitoring of road accidents to determine PIU/EPC PIU Health and Safety due to increased whether improvement of road safety features is Contractor - Improved road traffic necessary - CSC: Construction Supervision Consultant, EA: Executing Agency, CBR: California Bearing Ratio, CPCB: Central Pollution Control Board, MP: Environment management Plan, EMOP: Environment Monitoring Plan, MI: Monitoring Indicator, IRC: Indian Road Congress, CKIC: Chennai- Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor, MORTH: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, PT: Performance Target.
163
Table 62: Environmental Monitoring Plan Action Plan Responsible party Environmental in case Features / Parameters and Standards Location Frequency Duration criteria Stage exceeds the Implementation Supervision standards Air Quality and Noise Levels
Pre- • PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NOx, • Along the project Once prior to Continuou Include EPC Contractor CSC, PIU construction CO, HC (Ambient Air quality road at different start of s 24 additional Through Stage standards published in zone as suggested construction hours/ or measures in approved 2009) by CSC for regular for 1 full the EMP monitoring • Leq - Noise levels on dB monitoring working agency (A) scale (MOEFCC Noise • At construction day Provide noise Rules, 2000(Ambient Noise camps, hot mix Noise day barriers Standards)) compared with plant and time and IFC EHS equipment yards noise time locations Construction • PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NOx, • Wherever the Once in a Continuou Check and EPC Contractor CSC, PIU Stage CO, HC (Ambient Air quality contractor decides quarter s 24 modify control Through standards published in to locate the Hot excluding hours/ or devices like approved 2009) mix plant monsoon for 1 full bag monitoring • Leq - Noise levels on dB • Along the project months for 2 working filter/cyclones agency (A) scale (MOEFCC Noise road at different years day of hot mix Rules, 2000(Ambient Noise zone as suggested plant Standards)) compared with by CSC for regular IFC EHS monitoring Provide • At hot mix plant and additional equipment yards noise barriers
Operations • PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NOx, Along the project road Once in a Continuou - EPC Contractor CSC, PIU Stage CO, HC (Ambient Air quality at different zone as quarter s 24 Through standards published in suggested by CSC for excluding hours/ or approved 2009) regular monitoring monsoon for 1 full monitoring • Leq - Noise levels on dB months for 2 working agency (A) scale (MOEFCC Noise years day Rules, 2000(Ambient Noise Standards)) compared with IFC EHS
164
Action Plan Responsible party Environmental in case Features / Parameters and Standards Location Frequency Duration criteria Stage exceeds the Implementation Supervision standards Water Quality
Pre pH, Temperature, DO, Oil & • Along the project Once prior to - Check and EPC Contractor CSC, PIU Construction Grease, Conductivity, TSS, road at different start of modify petrol Through Stage TDS, Alkalinity, Total zone as suggested construction interceptors, approved Hardness, Calcium, by CSC for regular Silt fencing monitoring Magnesium Chloride, monitoring devices. agency Phosphate, Sulphate, Nitrate, At construction camps, COD, BOD, Iron, Total hot mix plant and Coliform, Faecal Coliform, equipment yards Salinity (Indian Standards for locations Inland Surface Waters (IS: 2296, 1982) and for Drinking Water (IS: 10500 - 2012)) Construction pH, Temperature, DO, Oil & At identified locations Once in a - Check and EPC Contractor CSC, PIU Stage Grease, Conductivity, TSS, especially surface quarter modify petrol Through TDS, Alkalinity, Total water inside VBS. Excluding interceptors, approved Hardness, Calcium, Periodic monitoring of monsoon Silt fencing monitoring Magnesium Chloride, groundwater near any months for devices. agency Phosphate, Sulphate, Nitrate, locations for fuelling. construction COD, BOD, Iron, Total period Coliform, Faecal Coliform, Salinity (Indian Standards for Inland Surface Waters (IS: 2296, 1982) and for Drinking Water (IS: 10500 - 2012)) pH, Temperature, At identified locations Once in a - Check and EPC Contractor CSC, PIU Conductivity, TSS, TDS, quarter modify petrol Through Alkalinity, Total, Hardness, Excluding interceptors, approved Calcium, Magnesium Chloride, monsoon Silt fencing monitoring Phosphate, Sulphate, Nitrate, months for devices. agency Iron. (Indian Standards for construction Inland Surface Waters (IS: period 165
Action Plan Responsible party Environmental in case Features / Parameters and Standards Location Frequency Duration criteria Stage exceeds the Implementation Supervision standards 2296, 1982) and for Drinking Water (IS: 10500 – 2012)) Operation pH, Temperature, DO, Oil & At identified locations Once in a - Check and EPC Contractor CSC, PIU Stage Grease, Conductivity, TSS, quarter modify petrol Through TDS, Alkalinity, Total Excluding interceptors, approved Hardness, Calcium, monsoon Silt fencing monitoring Magnesium Chloride, months for 2 devices. agency Phosphate, Sulphate, Nitrate, years COD, BOD, Iron, Total Coliform, Faecal Coliform, Salinity ((Indian Standards for Inland Surface Waters (IS: 2296, 1982) and for Drinking Water (IS: 10500 - 2012)) pH, Temperature, At identified locations Once in a - Check and EPC Contractor CSC, PIU Conductivity, TSS, TDS, quarter modify petrol Through Alkalinity, Total, Hardness, Excluding interceptors, approved Calcium, Magnesium Chloride, monsoon Silt fencing monitoring Phosphate, Sulphate, Nitrate, months for 2 devices. agency Iron. (Indian Standards for years Inland Surface Waters (IS: 2296, 1982) and for Drinking Water (IS: 10500 - 2012)) Soil Quality Construction Chemical properties including At identified locations Once in a - Check oil and EPC Contractor CSC, PIU oil and grease and PAH quarter chemical Through Excluding spillage approved monsoon monitoring months for agency construction period
166
Action Plan Responsible party Environmental in case Features / Parameters and Standards Location Frequency Duration criteria Stage exceeds the Implementation Supervision standards Operation Chemical properties including At identified locations Once in a - Check oil and EPC Contractor CSC, PIU oil and grease quarter for 2 chemical Through years spillage approved monitoring agency Accidental and Health and Safety Construction No. of accidents or near miss All along the road Once in 3 - Corrective EPC Contractor CSC, PIU involving workers. months measures Operation No. of accidents or near miss All along the road Once in 3 - Corrective EPC Contractor PIU involving workers. months for 2 measures years Tree Plantation Operation Survival rate of plants All along the project 1 samples Once Corrective EPC Contractor PIU corridor (Shall be (quadrants) for every year measures / prioritized along tank each km after bunds, stretch along monsoon ESZ area, Poramboke for 3 lands) years Wildlife Pre- Survey in the VBS area for ESZ of VBS areas Once prior to - Corrective Forest CSC/PIU, construction Bird Census and Habitat construction (2 measures in Department identification weeks BAP in Cases of poaching sampling coordination period during with Forest migratory bird Department visiting period) Construction No. of bird accidents VBS area Once every - Corrective EPC Contractor CSC/PIU, Cases of poaching quarter measures in Dead bird on or next to road coordination with Forest Number of birds of migratory Department species visited the area 167
Action Plan Responsible party Environmental in case Features / Parameters and Standards Location Frequency Duration criteria Stage exceeds the Implementation Supervision standards Operation No.ofBird accidents VBS area One every six - Corrective EPC Contractor CSC/PIU, Cases of poaching month for first measures in 2 years coordination with Forest Department Note: PIU – Project Implementation Unit (of CKICP), CSC- Construction Supervision Consultant
168
E. Institutional Requirements
415. The Highways and Minor Ports Department (TNHD) of Government of Tamil Nadu will be the Executing Agency (EA) for the project and the Implementing Agency (IA) will be the CKICP. A Project Implementation Unit (PIU) has been established within CKICP to implement the project. EA together with IA will be responsible for the implementation of the Project. The Project Director of PIU will be overall responsible for EMP implementation. The following key players are involved in EMP implementation during construction stage:
• TNHD as Project Executing Agency • CKICP-PIU as project PIU and its environmental wing; • Project Management Services (PMS) and Construction Supervision Consultants (CSC) and their representatives; • Contractors; and • External monitor.
416. The PIU is headed by a Project Director and supported by Chief Engineer and Superintending Engineer, and Engineering unit, Land Acquisition And Resettlement & Rehabilitation (LARR) unit, Environmental wing, and Audit/ Finance unit. The environment wing has an Environmental Cell and Forest Wing headed by an Environment Specialist and Assistant Conservator of Forests, respectively. The environmental wing is composed of Assistant Environment Specialist, Forest Ranger, and Foresters, along with support staff to conduct monitoring and provide support to the Field Implementation Units (FIU) to ensure the quality of EMP implementation. The PIU Environmental Wing shall be responsible for the review and final approval of Health and Safety Plans based on the latest guidelines issued by concerned government agencies as well as national and international best practices. The PIU will conduct at least quarterly site monitoring or more frequently as the need arises. The PIU with the support of the PMS of construction supervision consultants will review all environmental monitoring reports prepared by the contractor and the consultants. The PIU will ensure that semi-annual environmental monitoring reports are submitted within 3 calendar months from the end of the respective reporting period to ADB for disclosure on the ADB website. FIUs will have one nominated social and environmental safeguards focal who will be will be present on site on a day- to-day basis and shall ensure the reports submitted by the contractor and the construction supervision consultants are consistent with site conditions.
417. PMS team will include environment, health and safety (EHS) Specialist whose role will be to support the PIU in monitoring the implementation of environmental safeguards under the project. The CSC will have an Environmental Specialist (ES) in its team, and it will liaise with PIU environmental wing through the FIU to ensure that Contractor complies with the requirements of various environmental safeguard measures through supervision, monitoring and reporting on the same. Efforts must be made by the CSC to ensure that environmental mitigation and good- construction-practices are not only considered but actually implemented as integral component of each civil activity. It should be considered as day-to-day activity. Implementation of wildlife and environmental safeguard measures needs team effort and as such the Team Leader of CSC will delegate the responsibilities to each member of the supervision team with respect to their core responsibilities. ES role would be more on advisory. He will assist the Team Leader of CSC on the following:
• Advise PIU through the FIU and PMS on preparing reports to ADB and other statutory bodies; • Preparing procedures for implementing EMP; 169
• review Contractor’s Construction EMP (CEMP), traffic management plan and safety plan and recommend for its approval / improvements, to the Team Leader; • provide training to FIU, PIU, CSC and Contractors’ staff on implementing environmental safeguard measures; • advise on obtaining various statutory environmental clearances on time; • conduct at least weekly field visits to examine environmental compliances and suggest corrective actions ; and • address any other issues as will be required to ensure environmental compliance.
418. The Environmental Expert within CSC will be responsible for monitoring implementation of the biodiversity conservation activities to be implemented by the contractor during project construction and until the end of the contractor’s defect liability period. He/she will conduct quarterly monitoring during project construction and provide inputs to the semi-annual environmental monitoring reports.
419. Besides, the Team Leader of CSC will nominate a senior engineer from the site office for being directly responsible for day-to-day supervision of implementation of stipulated safeguard measures, to ensure accountability. He will provide guidance to the field staff of CSC and Contractor for implementing each of the activities as per the EMP. He will be responsible for record keeping, providing instructions through the Engineer for corrective actions, ensuring compliance of various statutory and legislative requirements and assist Engineer for submitting reports to PIU. He will maintain a close co-ordination with the Contractor and PIU for successful implementation of the environmental safeguard measures.
420. An external monitoring agency will be engaged to conduct third party monitoring on implementation of environment safeguards and biodiversity related activities for the sensitive roads (SH191, SH63, and SH40-II).
421. Responsibilities of various agencies involved in the project implementation are described in following paragraphs.
422. Department of Highways and Minor Ports Department (TNHD). As the executing agency TNHD’s responsibilities will mainly be focused on addressing national or state level environment safeguard issues and decisions concerning the projects. Specific responsibilities on environment safeguards at the executing agency level are:
• Ensure that all environment safeguard requirements as given in ADB SPS 2009, and applicable laws and rules under MOEFCC are being complied with during all stages of respective project under the loan.
423. Project Implementation Unit (PIU). TNHD CKICP will be the implementing agency for the project. A PIU within CKICP will be responsible for implementing environment safeguard requirements in accordance with the IEE and EMP at the project level whereas site level work will be monitored by Field Implementation Units (FIU). Specific responsibilities on environment safeguards of the PIU and FIUs are (both if not specified):
• The PIU will ensure timely recruitment and mobilization of the environmental specialist as well as health and safety officer under the CSC and the external monitor. • The PIU and FIUs will coordinate to ensure timely processing of forestry clearances, tree cutting permissions, and other similar clearances and permits required for the project; primary responsibility per jurisdiction will fall on respective FIU.
170
• FIU will coordinate with the Forestry Department on biodiversity monitoring and habitat improvement activities. • PIU will review the budgetary needs for complying with the Government’s and ADB’s requirements on environment safeguards and ensure the proposed budget is available. • Prepare forms, reports and all documents etc. for processing of environmental, forestry and related clearances in a timely manner and submit them for further review and signing to the authorized officer in the respective executing agency office. • If any problems or long delays are encountered when processing the clearance documents, immediately alert the authorized officer at the executing agency level and seek ways resolve the problem at the soonest. • Ensure that all necessary regulatory clearances are obtained prior to commencing any civil work of the respective road section. • The PIU will ensure that the most recent version of the EMP (including biodiversity conservation measures) and EMOP which include required mitigation measures and monitoring requirements with defined Bill of Quantity (BOQ), forms part of contractor’s agreement. • Ensure that contractor have access to the IEE report including EMP, and EMOP. • The FIU will ensure that the Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor updates the EMP, EMOP based on detailed design and prepare CEMP. • Ensure that contractor understand their responsibilities to mitigate environmental problems associated with their construction activities. • The FIU will ensure and monitor that all required permits, no objection certificates etc. are obtained by the contractor for establishment and operation of equipment and facilities as detailed in the IEE. • The FIU with the support of the environmental Engineer of the contractor and CSC ensure that the contractor implements the EMP (including biodiversity conservation measures) and EMOP as given in the latest version of the IEE report. • In case of unanticipated environmental impacts during project implementation stage, with the support of CSC prepare and implement an updated EMP to account for such impacts after seeking concurrence from ADB. The updating shall be carried out after due consultation with the stake holders and concerned government agencies. • In case during project implementation if the project needs to be redesigned or there are unanticipated environmental impacts, the PIU will immediately inform ADB and jointly agree on whether the IEE needs to be revised or whether only the EMP and/or EMOP needs to be revised. • Conduct regular (monthly/weekly) site visits to ensure that the contractor is complying with the EMP, EMOP and the CSC is conducting regular supervision and monitoring as outlined below in the next paragraph. • Ensure effective implementation of Grievance Redress Mechanism to address affected people’s concerns and complaints. • With the support of CSC and contractor, conduct public consultations during project construction to seek feedback of the local community people and ensure that the project is not having adverse impacts on them. • The PIU, with the help of respective FIU, will review, verify and endorse the monthly, quarterly and semi-annual environmental monitoring reports submitted by the CSC and PMS. • The PIU, with the help of respective FIU, will review and endorse the semi-annual environmental monitoring reports submitted by the external monitor. 171
• Once deemed satisfactory, the PIU will submit consolidated semi-annual environmental monitoring reports submitted by the PMS and external monitor to ADB and make these reports available for public disclosure. • The FIU will review and approve all environment safeguards related documents such as updated IEE, monitoring reports etc. prepared for project with recommendations and clarifications from the implementing agency where necessary. • The PIU will ensure timely endorsement and signing of key documents and forwarding to the respective agency such as those required for processing of wildlife clearance, forestry clearance etc. and disclosure on ADB website. • Take proactive and timely measures to address any environment safeguards related challenges at the national or state level such as delays in processing of clearances (during pre-construction stage), significant grievances (during construction stage). • The PIU will recruit an external monitor to conduct third party environmental monitoring for the project. • The PIU will submit all reports including consolidated semi-annual environmental monitoring report and external monitoring reports to ADB. • Safeguards focals of FIUs will inspect field work at field level.
424. Project Management Service (PMS). Project management support, including safeguards implementation, will be provided to the PIU by one of the construction supervision consultants (CSC-01). The project management service (PMS) team of CSC-01 will include environment, health and safety (EHS) expert and resettlement specialists whose role will be to support the PIU in monitoring the implementation of environmental and social safeguards under the project. Details of EHS related responsibilities of the PMS is provided below.
• Support the PIU in monitoring the implementation of environmental and social safeguards under the project • Review and clear contractors’ Health and Safety Plans which shall include COVID19 measures and submit it to the PIU for further assessment and final approval; • Review the environmental monitoring reports submitted by the construction supervision consultants and the contractors; and • Consolidate the monitoring reports submitted by the CSCs into semi-annual environmental monitoring reports for submission to PIU for their review and endorsement for further submission to ADB.
425. Construction Supervision Consultant (CSC). The CSC will support the PIU to supervise and monitor environment safeguard requirements in accordance with the IEE, EMP, and EMOP. The CSC will include a team of environmental specialist, biodiversity specialist, and assistants. Details of environment safeguards related responsibilities of the CSC is provided below.
• Conduct continuous check on the status of environment safeguards in relation to air, noise, water, soil, occupational health and safety, and ecological activities and mitigation measures. • Based on site visits (monthly) and monthly reports submitted by the contractor prepare monthly environmental monitoring reports for the review and approval of PIU. • Compile the monthly monitoring reports into semi-annual environmental monitoring reports and submitted and further submission to ADB for disclosure on the ADB website.
172
• In coordination with PIU through the FIU, ensure that all necessary regulatory clearances are obtained prior to commencing any civil work of the respective road section. • Ensure that the EPC contractor updates the EMP and EMoP based on detailed design, prepares CEMP, and implements them properly. • Ensure that the EPC contractor updates the biodiversity components of the EMP and EMoP based on detailed design and implements them properly. • Ensure that the EPC contractor designs and constructs measures suggested in the road section in eco sensitive zone of the VBS. • Review and approve environment related sub plans such as camp layout plan, traffic management plan, borrow area management plan, construction debris management plan etc. to be submitted by the contractor. • Provide technical guidance to the contractor to ensure they understand their responsibilities to mitigate environmental problems associated with their construction activities. • Provide training to FIU, PIU, CSC and Contractors’ staff on implementing environmental safeguard measures • Ensure and monitor that all required permits, no objection certificates etc. are obtained by the contractor for establishment and operation of equipment and facilities as detailed in IEE. • In case of non-compliances with the EMP and EMOP prepare a corrective action plan and ensure it is implemented • In case during project implementation if the project needs to be redesigned or there are unanticipated environmental impacts immediately inform the PIU and provide recommendation on whether the IEE and EMP and EMOP needs to be revised. • Support the PIU to ensure effective implementation of Grievance Redress Mechanism to address affected people’s concerns and complaints. • Ensure regular consultations are taking place with affected communities and key stakeholders (including management and field staff of VBS) during construction as well as operation phases of the project. • Review and verify all environmental reports prepared by contractor. Based on site inspections and environmental reports from the contractors, prepare quarterly environmental monitoring reports for submission to the PIU. Consolidated quarterly reports into a semi-annual environmental monitoring report and submit it to the PIU.
426. External Monitor. The External Monitor will conduct third party monitoring of environment safeguard and biodiversity conservation activities. The following are a summary of the key responsibilities of the External Monitor.
• Review the IEE, EMP and Biodiversity Assessment report to understand the background environmental and biodiversity issues of the project. • Conduct third party monitoring of the implementation of the EMP, EMOP and biodiversity conservation activities by the contractor and supervisory activities of the CSC through quarterly site visits and review of environment safeguard and biodiversity conservation related documents maintained by the contractor, CSC and PIU. • Advise the PIU on the need for corrective actions if any. • The External Monitor must not be involved in the day to day implementation and supervision of environment safeguards and biodiversity conservation activities under the project. 173
• Based on the observations from the site visits and review of documents and monitoring reports prepared by the contractor and CSC, prepare semi-annual reports for submission to the PIU and onward to ADB for disclosure on the ADB website.
427. ADB. ADB is responsible for the following: • Review IEE reports and disclose the draft and final reports on the ADB website as required; • Issue project’s approval based on IEE report; • Monitor implementation of the EMP through due diligence missions; • Provide assistance to the executing agency and implementing agency of project, if required, in carrying out its responsibilities and for building capacity for safeguard compliance; and • If necessary, provide further guidance to the implementing agency on the format, content, and scope of semi-annual monitoring reports for submission to ADB.
428. EPC Contractor. For ensuring that EMP is properly implemented, Contractor shall appoint a full time qualified and experienced Environmental Officer (EO) and a Health and Safety Officer (HSO) from the commencement to completion of the project. These experts will be recruited within 30 days of contract signing.
429. The responsibilities of EO and HSO of Contractor will include the following:
• Directly reporting to the Project Engineer of the Contractor; • Discussing various environmental issues and environmental mitigation, enhancement and monitoring actions with all concerned directly or indirectly; • Prepare Contractor’s Construction EMP (CEMP), traffic management plan and safety plan, and other environmental subplans, as part of their Work Program; • Ensure contractor’s compliance with the EMP stipulations and conditions of statutory bodies; • Assisting the project Engineer to ensure environmentally sound and safe construction practices; • Assisting his project Engineer to ensure the timely procurement of materials that are included in the Bill of Quantities relating to environmental mitigation and enhancement measures; • Conducting periodic environmental and safety training for contractor’s engineers, supervisors and workers; • Preparing a registers for material sources, labour, pollution monitoring results, public complaint and as may be directed by the Engineer; • Coordinate closely with the construction supervision consultants on climate and disaster risk adaptation measures; • Assisting the PIU on various environmental monitoring and control activities including pollution monitoring; • Preparing and submitting monthly reports to CSC on status of implementation safeguard measures; and • HSO will be responsible for H&S Plan preparation and implementation, with particular attention to COVID 19.
430. As mentioned above, there will be a need for capacity building of PIU on various environmental and social aspects of the project through various environmental training. Recently, there has been change of statutory requirements for these similar projects based on new EIA Notification. This has changed the landscape of legal and administrative framework for
174
implementing the projects. Thus, there is a need for the PIU staff to updating the information and keeping abreast with the changing legal and administrative requirement, and requirements of various statutory permits and clearances. For successful implementation of EMP, it is essential to orient engineers of PIU, FIUs, CSC and Contractor who would be mobilized for this project. One day environmental orientation workshop will be organized by the PIU (with support from ADB TA consultant, if required) after most staff of the CSC and contractor has been mobilized.
F. Environmental Reporting System
431. The reporting system will operate linearly with the contractor who is at the ground level of the implementation system reporting to the CSC, who in turn shall report to the PIU and FIUs. All reporting by the contractor and CSC shall be on a monthly basis. The CSC will compile the monthly reports into quarterly reports and then semi-annual environmental monitoring reports and submit them to the PIU. The PIU shall be responsible for preparing targets for each of the identified EMP activities. The environmental specialist of the PMS will consolidate semi-annual monitoring reports submitted of CSCsinto semi-annual environmental monitoring reports for submission to PIU for their review and endorsement for further submission to ADB.
432. The PIU will review and endorse the monthly and semi-annual environmental monitoring reports submitted by the PMS and CSC. The PIU through TNHD will forward the consolidated semi-annual environmental monitoring reports to ADB for disclosure on the ADB website during the project construction period. The PIU will compile and submit consolidated annual environmental monitoring reports to ADB during the project operation stage until the Project Completion Report (PCR) is finalized.
433. Contractor will prepare all the sub-plans including construction EMP, traffic management plan, health and safety plan, camp management plan, borrow area management plan, air and dust control plans, etc. These plans will be approved by CSC.
434. During the implementation period, a compliance report may include description of the items of EMP, which were not complied with by any of the responsible agencies. It would also report to the management about actions taken to enforce compliance. It may, however, be noted that certain items of the EMP might not be possibly complied with for a variety of reasons. The intention of the compliance report is not to suppress these issues but to bring out the circumstances and reasons for which compliance was not possible (such as jurisdictional issues). This would help in reinforcing the implementation of the EMP. Photographic records will also be established to provide useful environmental monitoring tools. A full record will be kept as part of normal contract monitoring. Reporting and Monitoring Systems for various stages of construction and related activities have been proposed to ensure timely and effective implementation of the EMP.
435. A summary of the key environment safeguards activities and reporting system to be followed under the project is provided in the Table 63 below.
175
Table 63: Environmental Reporting System Activity Responsibility Outputs Deliverable to Period ADB Appointment of Contractor Appointment letter Included in semi- At least 45 days Contractor submitted to PIU annual before start of Environmental Focal through CSC environmental construction Person (EFP) monitoring report Induction training of CSC Training materials Included in semi- At least 30 days contractors and training annual before start of proceedings environmental construction monitoring report On-site training and CSC Records of training Included in semi- Continuously as field level guidance and field level annual needed during guidance provided environmental construction monitoring report Monthly reporting Environmental self- Contractor Completed checklist Monthly after monitoring report submitted to CSC None commencement and PIU date Site inspection CSC, PIU, FIU Inspection report None Monthly after prepared for inclusion commencement in monthly monitoring date report Quarterly reporting Site inspection CSC Inspection report on CSC to submit to Quarterly after findings of PIU and ADB commencement biodiversity monitoring Site inspection External Inspection report None First inspection monitor submitted to PIU for within 3 months review and of endorsement commencement Semi-annual Semi-Annual CSC Consolidated PIU to further No later than 3 Monitoring report monitoring reports submit to ADB for months after submitted to PIU for disclosure on ADB reporting period review and website endorsement Consolidated Semi- PMS Consolidated PIU to further No later than annual monitoring monitoring reports submit to ADB for 3months after report submitted to PIU for disclosure on ADB reporting period. review and website endorsement CSC: Construction Supervision Consultant; PIU: Project Implementation Unit
G. Environmental Management Budget
436. An environmental management budget of INR 5,94,46,000 (Indian Rupees Five crore, Ninety four lakh, Forty six thousand only)(US$ 0.80million) has been estimated for implementation of the EMP and about $0.514 million dollars for the BAP measures. This budget also includes cost of environmental monitoring and associated trainings. A detail of environmental management budget is given in Table 64.
176
Table 64: Environmental Management Cost Estimate * QUANTIT RATE SL. No. ITEM DESCRIPTION UNIT AMOUNT (Rs.) RESPONSIBILITY Y (Rs.) A. Tree cutting, Wildlife Clearance and Compensatory Afforestation Plantation Covered under Engineering A.1.1 Felling of trees 1174 No. EPC Contractor cost Compensatory Afforestation/Plantation including CSC/PIU/EPC A.1.2 11740 No. 2500 2,93,50,000 fencing Contractor B. Environmental Monitoring
Ambient air quality monitoring during pre- B.1 45 No. 8,000 3,60,000 construction, construction and operations phases Ambient noise level monitoring during pre- B.2 48 No. 2,000 96,000 construction, construction and operations phases CSC/PIU/ EPC Water quality monitoring of surface water pre- Contractor through B.3 construction, during construction and operations 32 No. 5,000 1,60,000 Approved phases Monitoring Agency Water quality monitoring of drinking water pre- B.4 construction, during construction and operations 16 No. 5,000 80,000 phases Soil quality monitoring during construction and B.5 21 No. 10,000 2,10,000 operations phases B.6 Monitoring survival rate of plantation 4 No. 20,000 80,000 Enhancement of environmental improvement in the project alignment as directed by project authority C. including the following items C.1 Landscaping at major junction. 1 No. 100,000 1,00,000 EPC Contractor 2,00,00 C.2 Septic tank with soak pit 2 No. 4,00,000 through 0 BOQ/CSC/PIU C.3 Oil interceptor 1 No. 10,000 10,000 C.4 Recharge pits for road side drains in habitation area 32 Rm. 50,000 16,00,000 177
QUANTIT RATE SL. No. ITEM DESCRIPTION UNIT AMOUNT (Rs.) RESPONSIBILITY Y (Rs.)
D. Biodiversity Conservation Activities PIU// Bird Conservation Plan for Floral Species lumpsu D.1 1 40,00,000 Sanctuary/Forest m Rescue/Transplantation of Flora Department Wildlife and Avifauna Conservation PIU// Bird lumpsu D.2 1 1,30,00,000 Sanctuary//Forest Compensatory afforestation along road and in m sanctuary area for restoring habitat for avian fauna Department E. External Monitor External Environment and Biodiversity monitoring Lump E.1 1 50,00,000 PIU services Sum F. Environmental Training Lump F.1 Training at site as mentioned in IEE report. 1 5,00,000 PIU through CSC Sum
Grand Total (Rupees) 5,94,46,000 Grand Total Excluding D & E 3,29,46,000 (Scope of EPC Contractor)
178
Biodiversity Action Plan Mitigation Measures Unit cost No. Total cost Remarks ($ USD) 5.1.1: Ensure no drainage from road through bunds into 0 n/a 0 No significant cost Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary 5.1.2: Use acoustic enclosures for noisy equipment c. $2,000 2 c.$4,000 c. $2,000/acoustic (e.g., diesel generators, compressors) enclosure 5.1.3: Install noise-reducing barriers next to the road on <$800/metre c. 1 km <$500,000 the side adjoining Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary 5.1.4: Avoid introduction of new invasive species to, <$5,000 2 <$10,000 <$5,000/wash station and spread of existing invasive species within, the Project area 5.1.5: Install anti-poaching signs in the Vaduvoor Bird <$150 2 <$300 Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone 5.1.6: Install speed limit and animal crossing warning <$150 4 <$600 Two of each type of sign signs in the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone Total <$514,900 USD
179
X. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
437. The project proposed for the improvement is classified as environment Category B project as per ADB SPS requirements, because while about 1.85 km length of the project road passes through Eco-sensitive Zone of VBS, mitigation measures for identified impacts on critical habitat qualifying species, Threskiornis melanocephalus or the black-headed ibis, as well as the internationally recognized IBA, the VBS, are readily available. For ADB the categorization has been done based on environmental screening and assessment of likely impacts. While the environmental assessment ascertains that it is unlikely to cause any major significant environmental impacts, some impacts were identified attributable to the proposed project, most of which are localized and temporary in nature and easy to mitigate.
438. Road widening will be confined within the available RoW with minimum additional land acquisition and most of water body crossed by the road are non-perennial in nature.
439. There are no forest areas along the project road neither there are any archaeological/protected monument located in the vicinity of project corridor. Therefore; no forest clearance is required.
440. The potential adverse impacts of the road section upgrading are:
• Impacts on surrounding area due to tree cutting (1174) for the proposed widening; • Impacts due to conversion of about 3.71 hectares of land for road widening purpose; • Impacts on roadside flora and fauna particularly on sections of road passing through Eco-sensitive Zone of VBS; • Temporary impact on land and air environment due to locating construction camp; • Temporary impact on land, air and water environment due to establishing and operating construction plants (Hot Mix Plant and Diesel Generator [DG] sets); • Impact on air quality, water quality, drainage, road users due to construction activities of project road; • Impact on land and water environment due to improper disposal waste water and improper disposal of solid waste generated from camps and construction activities; • Impact on occupational health and safety due to all on-site and off-site construction works; and • Induced cumulative impact on noise levels due to increase in traffic
441. Measures such as use of EFRC i.e. slope protection measures are proposed to minimize the impacts of slope instability, compensatory afforestation @ 1:10 ratio, engineering alternatives to limit impacts on forest areas etc. are proposed to minimize the potential impacts. A Biodiversity Action Plan to mitigate impacts on the black-headed ibis and its habitat has been developed.
442. Besides these, series of mitigation measures have been proposed that are described in the IEE Report and addressed comprehensively in the EMP. These include use of spoil disposal areas to minimize destruction of land forms along the alignment, proper sizing of hydraulic structures to assure adequate capacity and prevent destruction of adjacent land, provision of sign boards and noise barriers along ESZ area and notified area, identification of vulnerable community infrastructure that must be preserved or replaced under construction contracts, identification of sensitive receptors and consultation of affected persons prior to finalization of road design to incorporate noise abatement measures, limits on location and access of workers and other provisions regarding construction to assure minimum impact, and other basic provisions on air
180
pollution control, noise control, waste management as found in the EMP. All the above observations and mitigation measures will be included in the tender documents for contract works and the final contract agreement.
443. Application of these measures in parallel with MoRTH environmentally friendly road construction practices will reduce significantly any potential environmental impact. Impacts remaining on the physical environment (air and water pollution) are temporary and often occur away from the presence of people.
444. A systematic approach for surveillance and monitoring is provided by means of a management framework and monitoring and reporting protocol. In general, the projects received good support from local people. The local people appreciated that besides providing an all- weather efficient connectivity to large rural populations and improving the traffic scenario in the region, it will bear out several other socio-economic positive benefits. Follow-up public consultation is intended to provide future input to the identification of environmental impact during the construction phase as well as a grievance redress mechanism for project affected persons. The EMP is a living document and the same will be revised if necessary, during project implementation or if there is any change in the project design and with approval of ADB during the construction period. The environmental mitigation measures are itemized in the EMP and the PIU shall ensure that EMP and EMoP are included in Bill of Quantity (BOQ) and forms part of bid document and civil works contracts for each package.
445. Before the start of civil works for the any section of the project road, the project proponent (TNHD and CKICP-PIU-ADB) must obtain necessary clearances / permits from statutory authorities.
446. Environmental benefits of the proposed road improvement and long-term project objectives outweigh the manageable and temporary negative impacts that will arise during project construction and any residual or induced impacts during project operation phase.. Provided the EMP is properly implemented there will be no significant negative impacts arising from the project.
181
APPENDICES
182
Appendix 1: ADB’s Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist
INDIA: Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project (TNICP) Country/Project Title: Thanjavur – Mannargudi Road (SH-63)
Sector Division: SARD - SATC
Screening Questions Yes No Remarks A. PROJECT SITING Is the project area adjacent to or within any of the following environmentally sensitive areas?
▪ Cultural heritage site X
▪ Protected Area X Project road is not located in protected area. However about total 1.85 km length of the project road section passes through Eco-sensitive zone of Vandvoor Bird Sanctuary. Mitigation measures are included in the EMP to avoid impacts on flora and fauna in the ESZ area. EA will obtain wildlife clearance from statutory authority at State Level. ▪ Wetland X
▪ Mangrove X
▪ Estuarine X
▪ Buffer zone of protected area X
X None. However the project road is passing through ESZ ▪ Special area for protecting biodiversity of Vaduvoor Birds Sanctuary - Along the road between
km 15+250 to km 17+100. B. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Will the project cause…
▪ encroachment on historical/cultural areas; X No encroachment of historical places. Disfiguration of disfiguration of landscape by road landscape is not envisaged since it is embankments, cuts, fills, and quarries? expansion/reconstruction of existing alignment. Cut and fills are required only to improve the vertical profile of the road. Most of the construction materials would be available from existing quarries nearby, relatively few new borrow areas will be required, four borrow area/gravel quarry, one aggregate quarry is identified within the vicinity of project road. ▪ encroachment on precious ecology (e.g. X sensitive or protected areas)?
▪ alteration of surface water hydrology of X Water Bodies such as village ponds and lake are present waterways crossed by roads, resulting in along the project road. None of them are impacted due increased sediment in streams affected by to the project road as every measure has been taken in increased soil erosion at construction site? design to avoid the impact on these water bodies.
▪ deterioration of surface water quality due to X During construction period suitable mitigation measures silt runoff and sanitary wastes from worker- will be required to control the silt runoff. based camps and chemicals used in construction? Adequate Sanitary facilities and drainage in the workers camps will help to avoid this possibility. As the construction activity in this project will not contain any harmful ingredients, no impact on surface water quality is anticipated.
183
Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ increased local air pollution due to rock X With appropriate mitigation measures and use of most crushing, cutting and filling works, and modern environment friendly equipments/machineries chemicals from asphalt processing? air pollution shall be reduced to permissible levels.
▪ risks and vulnerabilities related to X Possible. With appropriate mitigation measures such occupational health and safety due to risks would be minimized. physical, chemical, biological, and radiological hazards during project construction and operation during project construction and operation?
▪ noise and vibration due to blasting and X No Blasting is involved. No significant noise generation other civil works? is expected during construction activities except normal construction equipment operational noise. These noise levels will be impulsive in nature and its impact will be confined within few meters of either side of the road. ▪ dislocation or involuntary resettlement of X Likely. A Resettlement Plan will be prepared and people? compensation shall be paid as per approved entitlement matrix. ▪ dislocation and compulsory resettlement of X Likely. A Resettlement Plan will be prepared and people living in right-of-way? compensation shall be paid as per approved entitlement matrix. ▪ disproportionate impacts on the poor, X No such impact is anticipated. women and children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable groups?
▪ other social concerns relating to X Imposing of appropriate mitigation measures in contract inconveniences in living conditions in the agreement to keep the air pollution within permissible project areas that may trigger cases of levels will keep a check on this problem. upper respiratory problems and stress?
▪ hazardous driving conditions where X To minimized the impact suitable traffic management construction interferes with pre-existing plan will be required roads?
▪ poor sanitation and solid waste disposal in X Proper provisions for sanitation, health care and solid construction camps and work sites, and waste disposal facilities will be available in the contract possible transmission of communicable documents to avoid such possibility. diseases (such as STI's and HIV/AIDS) from workers to local populations? Workers will be made aware about communicable diseases ▪ creation of temporary breeding habitats for X diseases such as those transmitted by mosquitoes and rodents?
▪ accident risks associated with increased X Adoption of suitable traffic signage system at sensitive vehicular traffic, leading to accidental spills places will reduce such possibility. of toxic materials?
▪ increased noise and air pollution resulting X Due to improvement in Riding Quality & Comfort in from traffic volume? driving due to unidirectional traffic such pollution will be reduced. Mitigation measures along with monitoring plan will be required ▪ increased risk of water pollution from oil, X Controlled construction activities and proper drainage grease and fuel spills, and other materials system will reduce this possibility. from vehicles using the road?
▪ social conflicts if workers from other X Not anticipated. Local labours would be hired to the regions or countries are hired? extent possible.
184
Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ large population influx during project X Possible. construction and operation that causes increased burden on social infrastructure and services (such as water supply and sanitation systems)?
▪ risks to community health and safety due to X Possible. EMP shall be followed to minimize this risk. the transport, storage, and use and/or disposal of materials such as explosives, fuel and other chemicals during construction and operation?
▪ community safety risks due to both X Impact is anticipated, and measures will be considered accidental and natural causes, especially in preparation of detailed Traffic Control Plans prepared where the structural elements or prior to commencement of works on any section of road. components of the project are accessible to members of the affected community or The Contractor will provide safe and convenient where their failure could result in injury to passage for vehicles, pedestrians and livestock to and the community throughout project from side roads and property accesses connecting the construction, operation and project road. decommissioning.
185
A Checklist for Preliminary Climate Risk Screening Country/Project Title: India: Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project (TNICP) (Thanjavur – Mannargudi Road (SH-63) Sector : Transport Subsector: Roads and Highways Division/Department: SATC Screening Questions Score Remarks1
Location and Is siting and/or routing of the project 0 There is no issue of landslide/ landslip in the Design of (or its components) likely to be project area as the project road fall in plain project affected by climate conditions terrain. The upgradation of road will not have including extreme weather related any impact on extreme weather-related events. events such as floods, droughts, storms, landslides? Would the project design (e.g. the 1 Hydrological surveys have been done at all the clearance for bridges) need to major and minor river crossings with a view to consider any hydro-meteorological obtain the Cross section of the rivers/streams at parameters (e.g., sea-level, peak the centre line of the road and up to a river flow, reliable water level, peak reasonable distance at upstream and wind speed etc.)? downstream. The Highest Recorded Flood Levels (HFL) has been obtained from existing flood marks or ascertained from local enquiry with local knowledgeable persons. Materials and Would weather, current and likely 0 The climate of the project influence area is Maintenance future climate conditions (e.g. tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. prevailing humidity level, temperature Project region falls in strong hyperthermic zone contrast between hot summer days as per temperature distribution map of Tamil and cold winter days, exposure to Nadu State. The annual temperature ranges wind and humidity hydro- between 22°C to 37°C. meteorological parameters likely The relative humidity in Thanjavur district varies affect the selection of project inputs between 70% to 85%. The humidity is generally over the life of project outputs (e.g. high in Thiruvarur throughout the year and construction material)? exceeds 70 percentages during period from August to May. Tamil Nadu state is the only part of the country that receives rainfall during winter months. the annual rainfall in project region varies between below 1000mm to 1200mm. The project design coincidentally addresses the risk of accelerated rutting as maintenance contract requires asphalt overlay. Would weather, current and likely 1 The warmest predicted average monthly future climate conditions, and related temperature of about 37°C may increase the extreme events likely affect the frequency of road repair due to rutting. maintenance (scheduling and cost) of However, this is minimal as this temperature is project output(s) ? only breached during the month of May and June. Further, asphalt overlay maintenance requirement to concessionaires ensure continued good road quality. Performance Would weather/climate conditions, 0 The predicted increase in temperature is at of project and related extreme events likely levels that may cause rutting but not at a scale outputs affect the performance (e.g. annual that can jeopardize the achieving the project power production) of project output(s) objective of providing safe and efficient (e.g. hydro-power generation transport. facilities) throughout their design life time? Options for answers and corresponding score are provided below:
1 If possible, provide details on the sensitivity of project components to climate conditions, such as how climate parameters are considered in design standards for infrastructure components, how changes in key climate parameters and sea level might affect the siting/routing of project, the selection of construction material and/or scheduling, performances and/or the maintenance cost/scheduling of project outputs.
186
Response Score Not Likely 0 Likely 1 Very Likely 2 Responses when added that provide a score of 0 will be considered low risk project. If adding all responses will result to a score of 1-4 and that no score of 2 was given to any single response, the project will be assigned a medium risk category. A total score of 5 or more (which include providing a score of 1 in all responses) or a 2 in any single response, will be categorized as high risk project.
Result of Initial Screening (Low, Medium, High): Medium Other Comments:______Prepared by: ______
187
Appendix 2: Locations of Borrow and Quarries Area for the Project Road
188
Appendix 3: Indian Standard Drinking Water Specification: II 10500:1991 and IS 2296:1992
Indian Standard Drinking Water Specification: II 10500:1991 Sl. Permissible Substance/ Characteristic Desirable Limit Remarks No. limit Extended to 25 if toxic substance 1 Colour, Hazen units, Max 5 25 are not suspected in absence of alternate sources 2 Odour Unobjectionable a) Test cold and when heated b) Test at several dilution Test to be conducted only after 3 Taste Agreeable safety has been established 4 Turbidity NTU, Max 5 10 5 pH value 6.5 to 8.5 No relaxation
Total Hardness (as CaCO3 6 600 600 mg/lit) 7 Iron (as Fe mg/lit, Max 0.3 1.0 8 Chlorides (as Cl mg/lit Max 250 1000 To be applicable only when water is chlorinated. Treated at Residual Free Chlorine, 9 0.2 consumer end. When protection mg/lit Max against viral infection is required, it should be Min 0.5 mg/lit 10 Dissolved Solids mg/l, Max 500 2000 11 Calcium (as Ca) mg/l, Max 75 200 12 Copper (as Cu) mg/l, Max 0.05 1.5 13 Manganese (Mn) mg/l Max 0.1 0.3 May be extended up to 400 14 Sulphate (As SO4), Max 200 400 provided (as Mg) does not exceed 30
15 Nitrate (as NO3) mg/l, Max 45 100 16 Fluoride (as F) mg/l, Max 1.0 1.5 Phenolic Compounds (as 17 0.001 0.002 C6H6OH) mg/l Max To be tested when pollution is 18 Arsenic (as As mg/l 0.05 No relaxation suspected 19 Lead (as Pb) mg/l 0.05 No relaxation Anionic Detergents (as 20 0.2 1.0 MBAS) mg/l To be tested when pollution is 21 Chromium (as Cr) mg/l 0.05 1.0 suspected 22 Mineral Oil mg/l 0.01 0.03 23 Alkalinity mg/l 200 600 95% of the sample should not contain coliform in 100 ml. 10 coliform 24 Total Coliform /100 ml
189
Indian Standard Water Specification: IS 2296:1992
Tolerance Limit as per IS:2296 S. No. Parameter Unit Class A Class B Class C Class D Class E 1 pH - 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 2 Temperature OC - - - - - 3 Turbidity NTU - - - - - 4 Conductivity @25°C µs/cm. - - - 1000 2250 5 Total Suspended mg/l - - - - - Solid 6 Biological Oxygen mg/l Demand (Max.) 2 3 3 - - (at 270C for 3 days) 7 Dissolved Oxygen mg/l 6 5 4 4 - (as O2) Min. 8 Calcium(as Ca) mg/l 80 - - - - 9 Magnesium(as Mg) mg/l 24 - - - - 10 Chloride(as Cl),Max mg/l 250 - - - 600 11 Iron(as Fe),Max mg/l 0.3 - 50 - - 12 Fluoride(as F),Max mg/l 1.5 1.5 1.5 - - 13 Total Dissolved Solid mg/l 500 - 1500 - 2100 14 Total Hardness (as mg/l 300 - - - - CaCO3) 15 Sulphate (as mg/l 400 - 400 - 1000 SO4)Max 16 Phosphate (as P) mg/l - - - - - 17 Sodium (as Na) mg/l - - - - - 18 Manganese (as Mn) mg/l 0.5 - - - - 19 Total Chromium (as mg/l 0.05 0.05 0.05 - - Cr) 20 Zinc (as Zn) mg/l 15 - 15 - - 21 Potassium (as K) mg/l - - - - - 22 Nitrate (as NO3),Max mg/l 20 - 50 - - 23 Lead ( as Pb) mg/l 0.1 - 0.1 - 24 Chemical Oxygen mg/l - - - - - Demand (asO2) 25 Arsenic (as As ) mg/l 0.05 0.2 0.2 - 26 Total Coli Form MPN/100ml • Class A-Drinking water without conventional treatment but after disinfection • Class B-Water for outdoor bathing • Class C-Drinking water with conventional treatment followed by disinfection • Class D-Water for fish culture and wild life propagation • Class E-Water for irrigation, industrial cooling and control waste disposal
190
Appendix 4: National Ambient Air Quality Standards (MOEFCC, 2009) and IFC EHS Guidelines
A comparison between the ambient air quality requirements between the World Bank (WB) Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) guidelines and the National Ambient Air Quality standards (NAAQS) under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 of GOI as given in table below shows that the NAAQS has requirements on three more parameters (Pb, Co and NH3) in comparison to the WB EHS. The NAAQS has differentiated standards for two types of areas: i) industrial, residential, rural and other areas and ii) ecologically sensitive areas. The WB EHS has guidelines values which are the required standards but allows for gradual compliance to the guideline values through staged interim targets. Most WB EHS guideline requirements are more stringent than NAAQS except for the NOx one year average in ecologically sensitive areas where the NAAQS requirements are more stringent.
Table 1: Ambient Air Quality standards of WB EHS Vs. the GOI NAAQS Ambient Air Averaging WB Guideline Value GOI Standards for GoI Ecologically Quality Period Industrial, Sensitive Area Parameter Residential, Rural (notified by Central and Other Areas Government) Sulfur dioxide 24-hr 125 (Interim target 1) 3 (SO2) (ug/m ) 50 (Interim target 2) 20 (guideline) 80 80 10 min 500 (guideline) Annual None 50 20 Nitrogen 1 Year 40 (guideline) 40 30 dioxide (NO2) 24 Hour None 80 80 (ug/m3) 1 Hour 200 (guideline) PM10 1 Year 70 (Interim target 1) 3 (ug/m ) 50 (Interim target 2) 30 (Interim target 3) 20 (guideline) 60 60 24-hr 150 (Interim target 1) 100 (Interim target 2) 75 (Interim target 3) 50 (guideline) 100 100 3 PM2.5 (ug/m ) 1 year 35 (Interim target 1) 25 (Interim target 2) 15 (Interim target 3) 10 (guideline) 40 40 24-Hour 75 (Interim target 1) 50 (Interim target 2) 37.5 (Interim target 3) 25 (guideline) 60 60 Ozone (O3) 8-hr daily max 160 (Interim target 1) (ug/m3) 100 (guideline) 100 100 Lead (Pb) Annual 0.5 0.5 µg/m3) 24 hours 1.0 1.0 Carbon 8 hours 2000 2000 Monoxide (CO) µg/m3 1 hour 4000 4000 Ammonia Annual 100 100 3 (NH3) µ/m 24 hours 400 400
191
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (MOEFCC, 2009)
Concentration in Ambient air (g/m3) Time Weighted Industrial, Pollutant Ecologically Average Residential, Rural Sensitive Areas and Other Areas Annual Average* 50 20 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) 24 hr** 80 80 Annual Average * 40 30 Oxides of Nitrogen (as NO2) 24 hr** 80 80 Particulate Matter: PM10 (<10 μm Annual Average * 60 60 ) 24 hr** 100 100 Particulate Matter: PM2.5 (<2.5 Annual Average * 40 40 μm) 24 hr** 60 60 Annual Average * 0.5 0.5 Lead 24 hr** 1.0 1.0 8 hr 2.0 2.0 Carbon monoxide mg/m3 1 hr 4.0 4.0 * Annual Arithmetic mean of minimum 104 measurement in a year taken for a week 24 hourly at uniform interval. ** 24 hourly or 8 hourly or 1 hourly monitored values should meet 98 percent of the time in a year Source: MoEF notification Central Pollution Control Board (1997) National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Series, NAQMS/a/1996-97.
192
Appendix 5: Tree inventory in Formation Width2 of the Project Road
LHS (girth size at breast height in cm) RHS (girth size at breast height in cm)
Local Name of Tree Scientific Name of Tree 30 60 60 90 90 120 120 150 150 180 180 210 > 210 30 60 60 90 90 120 120 150 150 180 180 210 > 210
‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 3 2 3 0 0 0 13 Banyan Ficus benghalensis 0 1 0 0 1 1 12 3 5 2 0 0 0 0 Coconut Cocus nicifera 3 7 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Eecham Phoenix pusilla 2 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Gourmet Momordica cochinchinensis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 2 0 9 Jamun Syzigium cumunii 0 2 0 0 0 0 14 33 3 0 0 0 0 0 Kattu Annona muricata 20 17 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Konnai Cassia fistula 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 1 1 0 1 6 28 Mango Mangifera indica 2 2 1 2 0 4 35 13 10 5 0 0 1 0 Neem Azadirachta indica 14 4 4 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Oothi Delonix regia 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Peepal Ficus religiosa 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 14 26 4 4 1 0 1 Pongamia Pongamia pinnata 16 12 5 1 5 0 1 2 1 1 0 0 1 2 Siris Albizia lebbeck 5 2 2 0 0 0 0 8 40 70 18 0 0 0 Tadi Borassus flabellifer 30 108 81 12 1 0 1 3 9 17 35 54 40 44 Tamarind Tamarindus indica 4 9 33 47 16 16 33 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Karuvelam Acacia arabica 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Punnai Calophyllum inophyllum 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Thungu Samanea saman 0 3 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Udhiyam Alstonia scholaris 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Teak Tectona grandis Linn. 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Jack Fruit Artocarpus heterophyllus 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 Others 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2 Formation width is right of way required to accommodate proposed improvements for the project road
193
Appendix -6: The Critical Habitat Assessment
194
Appendix 6 – Preliminary Biodiversity Assessment
Prepared by Highways and Minor Ports Department (TNHD), Government of Tamil Nadu for the Asian Development Bank.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION 197
1.1 BACKGROUND ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 1.2 OBJECTIVES ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 1.3 METHOD ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 1.4 PROJECT AREA OF INFLUENCE (PAI) ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 1.5 PROTECTED AREA ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 1.6 ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY IN PAI...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 1.6.1 IBAT Study...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 1.6.2 Field Survey ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 1.6.3 Study Location Details ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 1.6.4 Literature Review ...... Error! Bookmark not defined.
195
1.6.5 Stakeholders’ Consultation ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2 BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT FINDINGS ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
2.1 BIODIVERSITY IN PROJECT AREA ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 2.2 MIGRATORY ROUTE ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 2.3 RESULTS OF FIELD SURVEY ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 2.3.1 Avifauna (Birds Species) ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.3.2 Threatened Species ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.3.3 Fishes ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.4 RESULTS OF IBAT ANALYSIS ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 2.4.1 Vulnerable Species ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.4.2 Criteria 1 – 3 (IBAT and Other Data Sources) . Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.4.3 Criteria 4 & 5 (Unique Ecosystems and Key Evolutionary Processes) .... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.4.4 Protected Areas ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 2.5 CONCLUSION REGARDING CRITICAL HABITAT ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3 POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT PLAN ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
3.1 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.2 SPECIFIC IMPACTS ON BIRDS DUE TO ROAD CONSTRUCTION ... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.2.1 Pre-Construction Stage ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 3.2.2 Construction Stage ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 3.2.3 Operation Stage ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 3.3 POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.4 BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND MANGEMENT PLAN ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.5 CONSERVATION PLAN FOR FLORAL SPECIES ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.6 WILDLIFE AND AVIFAUNA CONSERVATION ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.7 ANTI-POACHING MEASURES ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.8 ADDITIONAL MEASURES: WATER CONSERVATION AND BIODIVERSITY ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.9 IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING SCHEDULE FOR BIODIVERSITY AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 3.10 BUDGET ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 4 CONCLUSION ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
4.1 SUMMARY ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. 4.2 CONCLUSION ...... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED. ANNEX 1: SYNOPSIS OF STUDIED SPOT IN PAI 236 ANNEX 2. GLIMPSES FROM THE FIELD 238 ANNEX- 3 SAMPLE QUESTIONNAIRE FOR FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSIONS 241 ANNEX-4 STAKEHOLDERS’ CONSULTATION 244 ANNEX- 5: DISCUSSION/CONSULTATION WITH COMMUNITY 245 ANNEX-6: BIRD CENSUS DATA IN VADUVOOR BIRDS SANCTUARY 248
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Number of IUCN Redlist Category species in 50 km buffer of project area ...... Error! Bookmark not defined.
196
Table 2: List of IUCN Thearthened Species in 50km buffer of project areaError! Bookmark not defined. Table 3: Details of the habitat analysis in the PAI ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 4: Details of spot for field survey along the road section in protected area ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 5:Point discussed during consultation with StakeholdersError! Bookmark not defined. Table 6: Discussion details from community consultation ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 7: Details of Flora and Fuana found in project area of influenceError! Bookmark not defined. Table 8: Birds species observed in DMU established in PAI for field surveyError! Bookmark not defined. Table 9: Birds species in project affected area listed in IUCN red list & Wildlife Protection (Act) 1972 ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 10: Potential impacts on biodiversity and mitigation measuresError! Bookmark not defined. Table 11: Monitoring schedule for Biodiversity Management PlanError! Bookmark not defined. Table 12: Estimated Budget for Biodiversity Conservation PlanError! Bookmark not defined.
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Project Area of Influence (PAI) for Thanjavur-Mannargudi road project ...... 198 Figure 2: Sanctuary area and ESZ boundary on Google Map ...... 199 Figure 3: The map showing Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary ...... 201 Figure 4: Map showing study spot with respect to Wildlife Sanctuary ...... 213 Figure 5: Map of central asia flyway and project location ...... 230
197
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
This study was conducted to assess the ecological values, particularly the wildlife and status of the habitat in the notified protected area which will be impacted by the construction activities for the upgradation of proposed alignment of Thanjavur to Mannargudi road section (SH-63) from Km 0/00 to Km 27/585. The assessment has been carried out to identify critical habitats and anticipated impacts from the project implementation. The assessment is based on field survey, desk review and analysis of the secondary information collected through various sources and supported by the results of the proximity report generated by the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT). The findings and assessment were further strengthened following field assessments and consultations with key stakeholders involving forest and wildlife officials from the state.
1.2 Objectives
The specific objectives of the biodiversity assessment study were to: i) Provide assessment of any corresponding areas of biodiversity value, particularly natural and critical habitat/s ii) Identify the value/status of any Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs), protected areas, wetlands, feeding areas, lake or ponds, as per national/international conservation standards iii) Prepare a preliminary inventory of the wildlife (mammals , reptiles, birds, and fish species) present in the project area of influence
1.3 Method
The methods implied for the study of biodiversity assessment and identification of Critical Habitat (CH) in the project area were: (i) Project area of influence and DMU (ii) IBAT Screening (iii) Field Survey (iv) Literature review (v) Stakeholders Consultation
The assessment has adopted the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) method for identification of Critical Habitat for a preliminary screening level. The method is presented as part of the IFC’s Performance Standard No 6 of 2012, within the Guidance Note for the Performance Standard which was last updated in June 2019. The screening of Critical Habitat in the area has been conducted based on presence of threatened species (Critically Endangered (CR) and Endangered (EN) species as defined by the IUCN, and to a lesser extent Vulnerable (VU) species) as listed in IUCN Red list.
1.4 Project Area of Influence
The project road section (Thanjavur to Mannargudi of SH-63) from Km 0/00 to Km 27/585 is considered for upgrading under ADB supported Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project.
198
The right of way for proposed improvement of two lane road is kept 23m in open country area/rural areas and 16m in habitation areas of rural and urban settlement. For the purpose of biodiversity assessment and critical habitat study a project area of influence (PAI) has been determined as the proposed ROW plus 500m on either side of the road. A buffer of 10 km was selected to allow for broader analysis of the environment. The assessment was supported using 1km, 3km, and 10km buffer zones selected for the IBAT assessment for the road project (Figure 1).
Figure 1: Project Area of Influence (PAI) for Thanjavur-Mannargudi road project
Source: IBAT Screening
The landuse in the established project area of influence (PAI) include habitation, agriculture, vegetation and water reservoir. The PAI as a whole cannot qualify for Critical Habitat and Natural Habitat due to different type of landuse. Hence, the areas of assessment within PAI were marked on the basis of ecological or political units for Critical Habitat and Natural Habitat assessment. These areas of assessment are referred as ‘discrete management units’ (DMUs).
As outlined in IBAT Analysis, most of the species of concern in PAI are freshwater fish and waterbirds. The impacts on freshwater species are only likely to occur on water reservoir in the vicinity of the project or the road section crossing the Vennaru river. The impacts are unlikely to extend into rivers or streams away from road crossing sites and marine areas due to the nature of activities and the relative distance. Based on IBAT analysis screening and consultation with Wildlife Department the DMUs is defined for study in the vicinity of project. The selected DMU is the location within PAI supporting biodiversity. It is a combination of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem covering the stream, Vaduvoor lake near project site and notified ESZ area of the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary (VBS). The discrete management unit is outlined in Figure 2. The DMU portion covering lake and river stream was used to assess fish and waterbirds, while the notified ESZ area as terrestrial part of DMU was used to assess terrestrial birds, vertebrates and plants.
1.5 Protected Area
The Vaduvoor Lake has been notified as Eco Sensitive Zone vide Notification S.O. 3306 (E) dated 13th September 2019 of MoEF&CC, Government of India. The Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary is spread over an area of 1.281 square kilometres (128.10 hectare). The Eco- sensitive Zone (ESZ) of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary area is notified up to an extent of 0.50
199 kilometre uniform around the boundary of Sanctuary, the area of the Eco-sensitive Zone is 1.229 square kilometres.
The water reservoir (notified bird Sanctuary) is situated in Needamangalam Taluk of Thiruvarur District in the State of Tamil Nadu on Thanjavur–Mannargudi highway at 22 km from Thanjavur and approx.15 km from Mannargudi. The Lake has a depth of average 2.5m and receives water mainly from the northeast monsoon and the Vennaru river. The Lake irrigates about 1,356 acres of agricultural land. Nayvasal and Vaduvoor villages are situated around the Sanctuary area. The road from Thanjavur to Mannargudi borders one side of the Lake. Figure 2 shows the map of Sanctuary area and ESZ boundary.
Figure 2: Sanctuary area and ESZ boundary on Google Map
The Sanctuary area is an important feeding ground for migratory water birds and attracts more than 54 species of water birds from September to February. From October to December month the smaller birds like teals and ducks are main migratory birds as during this time the water depth is more. The water level starts decreasing from December month onwards, larger birds like painted storks, open bill storks, etc., are congregating birds in the Sanctuary.
There is no natural forest within the Sanctuary area. The plantation of Acacia nilotica was done during year 1986 and 1988 in the lake area. The other native species of plants like Inca dulce, Ziziphus indica, Pongamia pinnata are also available. These trees and earthen bund attract large numbers of migratory birds to nest and roost in the Sanctuary area.
200
The Sanctuary has recorded 57 species of avian fauna, including rare migratory birds particularly for the purpose of roosting. The protected area habitat also provides hatching sites for certain species of birds; about 40,000 birds are visiting this Bird Sanctuary annually. The major birds available in the Sanctuary are little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollius), grey heron (Ardea cinerea), open bill stork (Anastomus oscitans), spot-bill duck (Anas poecilorhyncha), pheasant-tailed jacana (Hydrophasinnus chirurgus), Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus), Indian plaintive cuckoo (Cacomantis passerinus) etc.
Species of butterflies, insects, reptiles, amphibians and mammals are also noted in Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary area. The species of butterflies include blue pansy (Junonia orithya), common rose (Colotis danae), gram blue (Euchrysops cnejus), tiny grass blue (Zizula hylax), etc. and amphibians include common Indian toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus), skipper frog (Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis), common tree frog (Polypedatus maculatus) etc. The examples of mammal species are Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus), Indian grey mongoose (Herpestes edwardsii), in the protected area.
1.6 Assessment of Biodiversity
1.6.1 IBAT Screening
The study analysis is for identification of protected or designated areas in the project area of influence (PAI) and the presence of Critical Habitat based on an initial risk assessment of the presence of Threatened species (Critically Endangered (CR) and Endangered (EN) species as defined by the IUCN, and to a lesser extent Vulnerable (VU) species).
The study analysis has adopted the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) method for identification of Critical Habitat for a preliminary screening level. The method is presented as part of the IFC’s Performance Standard No 6 of 2012, within the Guidance Note for the Performance Standard which was last updated in June 2019.
Habitats that are critical to the survival of International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) designated Critically Endangered or Endangered species, migratory species, congregatory species and endemic or restricted range species are classified as critical habitats.
The screening of Critical Habitat in the area has been conducted based on species which enlisted in redlist of IUCN. The presence of habitat of these species in the area will designate Critical Habitat. There are five criteria set out in updated Performance Standard No 6 Guidance note (IFC 2019) to consider the area as Critical Habitat. The five criteria for Critical Habitat determination is: (i) Criterion 1: Critically Endangered and Endangered Species (ii) Criterion 2: Endemic and Restricted range Species (iii) Criterion 3: Migratory and Congregatory Species (iv) Criterion 4: Highly Threatened or Unique Ecosystems (v) Criterion 5: Key Evolutionary Processes
Out of these five criteria, the first three criteria are related to species and threshold of species enlisted in the IUCN Redlist representing the risk of extinction of species at global level. While the criterion 4 & 5 are related to ecosystems and evolutionary processes.
There are two more criteria in addition to these five biological criteria which are used to recognize an area as Critical Habitat. These criteria are:
201 (vi) Criterion 6: The Legally Protected Areas (particularly IUCN Categories I-IV) and Internationally Recognised Areas (e.g., KBAs and IBAs); (vii) Criterion 7: Other areas of high biodiversity value, such as areas of high scientific value or areas of old growth forest.
The IBAT screening has been conducted for the project road section. In the screening study there are three protected areas and four Key Biodiversity Areas within 50km radius of project site are found. However, only one Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) is within the radius of 10km of the project area named as Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary. This is also an Impotant Bird Area (IBA) identified by BirdLife International. This IBA site3 is identical to Notified protected area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary as discussed in above section, figure-3 shows map of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary as IBA.
Figure 3: The map showing Important Bird Area (IBA) Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary
Source: Birdlife International (http://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/18407)
The Sanctuary is well known for several species, notably the Spotbilled Pelican Pelecanus philippensis. Several thousand migratory birds congregate in Vaduvoor lake during the winter season. Some of fish recorded are Ambassis urotaenia, Channa punctatus, Ophiocephalus sp. and Mystus tenegra. Detailed studies on the avifauna of this IBA are required.
Following IBAT screening, a habitat analysis was carried out for the Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU) species reported in the buffer of 10km radius of the project area. There are 147 species identified in IBAT screening that are located in the ecological areas within the project area of influence (PAI), refer to Table -1.
Table 1: Number of IUCN Redlist Category species in 10 km buffer of project area Group IUCN Red list category Total (CR, EN Critical Endangered Vulnerable & VU) Endangered (CR) (EN) (VU) Reptile/ Amphibian 1 0 4 5 Cartilaginous Fish 15 16 22 53
3 The IBA site and Protected area are identicals, however; in the map the outline of IBA site is shown outside the protected area on scaleup due to issue in small area map overlapping.
202
Bird 3 5 4 12 Mammal 0 3 8 11 Marine Invertebrates 0 2 35 37 Ray finned Fish 0 2 15 17 Sea Cucumber 0 4 4 8 Monocotyledon 0 0 2 2 Dicotyledon 0 0 2 2
There are 51 species out of total 147 species of IUCN redlist are of Critically Endangered (CR) and Endangered (EN) category. First screening of threatened species given in Table -2 is done on the basis of IUCN data on habitat distribution map in the project area of influence.
Table 2: List of IUCN Threatened Species (CR,EN&VU) in 50km IBAT Screening Radius S.No. Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status
Amphibian 1 Eretmochelys imbricata Hawksbill Turtle CR Bird 2 Calidris pygmaea Spoon-billed Sandpiper CR 3 Gyps bengalensis White-rumped Vulture CR 4 Sarcogyps calvus Red-headed Vulture CR 5 Sypheotides indicus Lesser Florican EN 6 Calidris tenuirostris Great Knot EN 7 Sterna acuticauda Black-bellied Tern EN 8 Neophron percnopterus Egyptian Vulture EN 9 Aquila nipalensis Steppe Eagle EN Fish 10 Glyphis gangeticus Ganges Shark CR 11 Carcharhinus hemiodon Pondicherry Shark CR 12 Carcharhinus longimanus Oceanic Whitetip Shark CR 13 Sphyrna lewini Scalloped Hammerhead CR 14 Sphyrna mokarran Great Hammerhead CR 15 Pristis zijsron Green Sawfish CR 16 Rhina ancylostoma Bowmouth Guitarfish CR 17 Rhynchobatus australiae Bottlenose Wedgefish CR 18 Rhynchobatus laevis Smoothnose Wedgefish CR 19 Glaucostegus granulatus Sharpnose Guitarfish CR 20 Glaucostegus obtusus Widenose Guitarfish CR 21 Glaucostegus thouin Clubnose Guitarfish CR 22 Acroteriobatus variegatus Stripenose Guitarfish CR 23 Pristis pristis Largetooth Sawfish CR 24 Glaucostegus typus Giant Guitarfish CR 25 Rhincodon typus Whale Shark EN 26 Isurus oxyrinchus Shortfin Mako EN 27 Anoxypristis cuspidata Narrow Sawfish EN 28 Pristis clavata Dwarf Sawfish EN 29 Eusphyra blochii Winghead Shark EN 30 Stegostoma tigrinum Zebra Shark EN 31 Aetobatus flagellum Longhead Eagle Ray EN 32 Aetomylaeus maculatus Mottled Eagle Ray EN 33 Aetomylaeus vespertilio Ornate Eagle Ray EN 34 Mobula tarapacana Sicklefin Devilray EN 35 Mobula thurstoni Bentfin Devilray EN
203 S.No. Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 36 Isurus paucus Longfin Mako EN 37 Lamiopsis temminckii Broadfin Shark EN 38 Alopias pelagicus Pelagic Thresher EN 39 Tor khudree Black Mahseer EN 40 Lethrinus mahsena Sky Emperor EN 41 Carcharhinus dussumieri Whitecheek Shark EN 42 Mobula mobular Giant Devilray EN Mammal 43 Balaenoptera musculus Blue Whale EN 44 Cuon alpinus Dhole EN 45 Manis crassicaudata Indian Pangolin EN Marine Invertebrates 46 Acropora rudis EN 47 Porites desilveri EN Sea Cucumber 48 Holothuria scabra Golden Sandfish EN 49 Holothuria lessoni Golden Sandfish EN 50 Holothuria nobilis Black Teatfish EN 51 Thelenota ananas Prickly Redfish EN
The CR and EN species were screened for Criteria 1 of IFC PS No. 6 and these have been reviewed using IUCN distribution map, other available literature and field survey for likely habitat requirements in the project area of influence for project road section.
204
Table 3: IUCN listed species habitat screening in the Project Area of Influence Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category Amphibian 1 Hawksbill Turtle CR Marine Neritic, Marine None: nest mainly on sandy beaches on the coastal regions. There (Eretmochelys Oceanic, Marine Intertidal is no coastal area with PAI. imbricate) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/8005/12881238
Birds 2 Spoon-billed CR Grassland, Marine None: The species prefer a habitat for breeding is lagoon spits with Sandpiper (Calidris Intertidal mostly breeding crowberry-lichen vegetation or dwarf birch and willow sedges with pygmaea) in the sea shore adjacent estuary or mudflat as feeding habitats during nesting. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22693452/134202771
3 White-rumped CR Forest, Grassland, None, the species habitat in South Asia and South-east Asia. vulture Shrubland, Savanna, Habitat reported in South India mainly in Karnataka state. (Gyps bengalensis) Artificial/Terrestrial https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22695194/118307773
4 Red-headed CR Forest, Grassland, None; possible the habitat extinct in Tamil Nadu State, habitat Vulture (Sarcogyps Shrubland, Savanna, extend mainly in North India and protected areas of Karnataka calvus) Artificial/Terrestrial State. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22695254/118371885
5 Lesser Florican EN Grassland, None; possibility of non-breeding habitat extend in Tamil Nadu (Sypheotides Artificial/Terrestrial state. indicus) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22692024/110438391
6 Great Knot (Calidris EN Grassland, Marine Neritic, None: The lichen and patches of herbs on gravelly areas are tenuirostris) Marine Intertidal, Marine breeding habitats or occurs on plateau or gentle slopes with Coastal/Supratidal montane tundra at an altitude of 300-1,600m. In winter the species shelters in coastal areas with oceanic sandy beaches with nearby mudflats. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22693359/155482913
205
Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category 7 Black-bellied Tern EN Wetlands (inland) Yes: breeding range extend into parts of India excluding Tamil (Sterna acuticauda) Nadu State. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22694711/110488626
8 Egyptian Vulture EN Rocky areas (eg. inland None; extend of migratory bird species breeding habitat during (Neophron cliffs, mountain peaks), winter in India including forest areas of Northern Tamil Nadu state. percnopterus) Wetlands (inland), https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22695180/154895845 Grassland, Shrubland, Savanna, Artificial/Terrestrial 9 Steppe Eagle EN Rocky areas (eg. inland None; extend of migratory bird species non-breeding habitat (Aquila nipalensis) cliffs, mountain peaks), during winter in India including hilly areas in Tamil Nadu state. Grassland, Savanna https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22696038/155419092
Fishes 10 Ganges Shark CR Wetlands including None: the species is to be fresh water found in the lower reaches (Glyphis Permanent Rivers & of the Ganges-Hooghly River system, possibility habitat in shallow gangeticus) Streams and also Marine marine estuaries but there are no verified marine records of this Estuaries species. Not recorded from inland water from project area. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/9281/12978210#habitat- ecology
11 Carcharhinus CR Marine Neritic, Marine None: the species habitat occurs inshore on continental and hemiodon Oceanic insular shelves; the location is away from the PAI. (Pondicherry https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39369/10185838 Shark) 12 Carcharhinus CR Marine Neritic, Marine None: usually found far offshore in the open sea with a preference longimanus Oceanic for surface waters, but it also reported to depths of 1,082m. (Oceanic Whitetip https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39374/2911619 Shark) 13 Scalloped CR Marine Neritic, Marine None: it is a coastal and semi-oceanic pelagic shark found in Hammerhead Oceanic continental and insular shelves and nearby deep water. (Sphyrna lewini) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39385/2918526
206
Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category 14 Great Hammerhead CR Marine Neritic, Marine None: The species habitat occurs close inshore and well offshore (Sphyrna Oceanic at depths ranging from near-surface to 300 m deep. mokarran) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39386/2920499
15 Green Sawfish CR Marine Neritic, Marine None: species most common in shallow water coastal and (Pristis zijsron) Oceanic estuarine areas up to depths to over 70m. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39393/141792003
16 Bowmouth CR Marine Neritic None: habitat occurs inshore on or close to the seabed, mainly Guitarfish (Rhina over sandy or muddy substrates, and also around coral reefs. ancylostoma) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/41848/124421912
17 Bottlenose CR Marine Neritic None: occurs in close inshore to depths of at least 60 m on the Wedgefish continental shelf over soft substrates also associated with coral (Rhynchobatus reefs. australiae) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/41853/68643043
18 Smoothnose CR Marine Neritic None: Habitat found inshore and depths of continental shelf upto Wedgefish 60 and has a preference for shallow bays and river mouths. (Rhynchobatus https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/41854/124422344 laevis) 19 Sharpnose CR Marine Neritic, Marine None: Habitat found close to inshore including the intertidal zone Guitarfish Oceanic and upto depths of 120m on the continental shelf. (Glaucostegus https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/60166/68623788 granulatus) 20 Widenose CR Marine Neritic None: Habitat range from close inshore to depths of at least 60 m Guitarfish on the continental shelf. (Glaucostegus https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/60170/124447244 obtusus) 21 Clubnose Guitarfish CR Marine Neritic None: Habitat range from close inshore to depths of at least 60 m (Glaucostegus on the continental shelf. thouin) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/60175/124447684
207
Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category 22 Stripenose CR Marine Neritic None: Habitat for species reported from the continental shelf to Guitarfish 366m, typically prefer shallow waters of 10-40 m depth including (Acroteriobatus coral habitats. variegatus) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/161476/109905030
23 Largetooth Sawfish CR Wetlands (inland), Marine None: The species habitat generally restricted to shallow (<10 m) (Pristis pristis) Neritic, Marine Intertidal coastal, estuarine, and fresh waters. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/18584848/141788242
24 Giant Guitarfish CR Marine Neritic, Marine None: The habitat ranges from close inshore (including the inter- (Glaucostegus Intertidal tidal zone and estuarine reaches of rivers) to depths of at least 100 typus) m on the continental shelf. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/104061138/68623995
25 Whale Shark EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: the habitat is found in both coastal and oceanic habitats. (Rhincodon typus) Oceanic https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/19488/2365291
26 Shortfin Mako EN Marine Oceanic None: habitat is found worldwide in tropical and warm-temperate (Isurus oxyrinchus) seas to depths of 888m. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39341/2903170
27 Narrow Sawfish EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: Species inhabits in estuarine, inshore and offshore waters (Anoxypristis Intertidal to at least 40 m depth. cuspidate) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39389/141789456
28 Dwarf Sawfish EN Wetlands (inland), Marine None: shallow-water coastal and estuarine sawfish occurring on (Pristis clavate) Neritic, Marine Intertidal sand and mud flats, although it also occasionally penetrates upstream into rivers and has been recorded in salinities of 1–41 ppt. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/39390/141790455
29 Winghead Shark EN Marine Neritic None: Habitat occurs on the continental shelves and is mainly (Eusphyra blochii) found in coastal nearshore waters https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/41810/68623209
208
Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category
30 Zebra Shark EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: Found in tropical and subtropical, shallow inshore and (Stegostoma Oceanic offshore waters, often found on and around coral and rocky reefs tigrinum) and on sandy plateaus near coral, at depths down to at least 62m. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/41878/161303882
31 Longhead Eagle EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: Mainly inshore on the inner continental shelf. Ray (Aetobatus Oceanic https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/60119/12306888 flagellum) 32 Mottled Eagle Ray EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: Species found on the inner continental shelf to depths of (Aetomylaeus Oceanic about 60 m over soft sandy substrate maculatus) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/60120/12307534
33 Ornate Eagle Ray EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: Habitat occurs on the inner continental shelf to depths of (Aetomylaeus Oceanic 110 m over soft sandy substrate. vespertilio) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/60121/68607665
34 Sicklefin Devilray EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: The species is primarily oceanic and also found in coastal (Mobula Oceanic waters. tarapacana) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/60199/124451161
35 Bentfin Devilray EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: The species is from neritic and oceanic waters ranging from (Mobula thurstoni) Oceanic the surface to depths of 100m. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/60200/124451622
36 Longfin Mako EN Marine Oceanic None; The species is recorded from epi-, meso- and bathypelagic (Isurus paucus) habitat in tropical and warm-temperate seas. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/60225/3095898
37 Broadfin Shark EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: Habitat found inshore on the continental shelf (mostly close (Lamiopsis Intertidal inshore). temminckii) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/161570/5454551
209
Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category 38 Pelagic Thresher EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: The species is epipelagic and mesopelagic from the surface (Alopias pelagicus) Oceanic to depths of 300m. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/161597/68607857
39 Black Mahseer (Tor EN Wetlands (inland), None: Tor khudree is a mesopelagic species, mainly found cool, khudree) Artificial/Aquatic & Marine fast-flowing, rocky streams and also recorded in rivers, tanks, reservoirs and cold-water lakes. It is known to move to the upper reaches of small streams to spawn. The possible extend of habitat is not in the project area as per IUCN and latest records. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/169609/60597571
40 Sky Emperor EN Marine Neritic None; The species is found in coral reef habitats and adjacent (Lethrinus sandy and seagrass areas. mahsena) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/16720057/16722325
41 Whitecheek Shark EN Marine Neritic None: The species is common in inshore waters over soft (Carcharhinus substrates at depths of 0-100m. dussumieri) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/70680197/68612632
42 Giant Devilray EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: It is a pelagic species that resides in coastal and continental (Mobula mobular) Oceanic shelf waters. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/110847130/110847142
Mammal 43 Blue Whale EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: The species has feeding habits both at the surface and at (Balaenoptera Oceanic depths of up to 300m. the species have diverse migration patterns. musculus) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/2477/156923585
44 Dhole EN Forest, Shrubland, None: the species habitat occur in a wide variety of vegetation (Cuon alpinus) Grassland types, including primary, secondary and degraded forms of tropical dry and moist deciduous forests; evergreen and semi- evergreen forests; temperate deciduous forests and boreal forests. The habitat map for the species shows it is extinct from the project area.
210
Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/5953/72477893
45 Indian Pangolin EN Forest, Savanna, Yes; The habitat occur in various types of tropical forests as well (Manis Shrubland, Grassland, as open land, grasslands, arid areas and degraded forest, crassicaudata) Artificial/Terrestria including in close proximity to villages. The possibility to found in agriculture fields supporting ants and termites as food for the species. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/12761/123583998
Marine Invertebrates 46 Acropora rudis EN Marine Neritic None: The species occurs in shallow reef environments. It can also be found on fringing reefs https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/132913/3490569
47 Porites desilveri EN Marine Neritic None: species is found in shallow reef environments, especially lagoons. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/132959/3510441
Sea Cucumber 48 Golden EN Marine Neritic, Marine None: Preferred habitat ordinary coastal areas to coral reefs, Sandfish(Holothuria Intertidal particularly intertidal seagrass beds close to mangroves. scabra) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/180257/1606648
49 Golden Sandfish EN Marine Neritic None: The species habitat found in lagoons over sandy bottoms (Holothuria lesson) between 0 and 25m. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/180275/1609567
50 Black Teatfish EN Marine Neritic None: The species habitat is restricted to coral reef only. (Holothuria nobilis) https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/180326/1615368
51 Prickly Redfish EN Marine Neritic None: The species is found along slopes and passes within reef (Thelenota ananas) zones. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/180481/1636021
211
Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category
212
After first screening for threatened species habitat in project area of influence; only the species fish from freshwater habitat were considered by critical habitat assessment, as marine water is located more than 10km away from the PAI and no adverse impacts are anticipated from project activities on species of marine water.
Further assessment of habitat for the species of birds, mammals and freshwater fishes qualifying the PAI as critical habitat were undertaken. The protected area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary is supporting migratory birds during winter season, the screening of bird species visiting the area was studied and assessment is undertaken following IUCN status and primary data from field. The area for field study was identified and marked based on preliminary screening.
1.6.2 Field Survey
A field survey for presence of IUCN redlist species qualifying the established DMU for Critical Habitat was conducted in month of February 2020. The consultation with divisional forest office and local community was also undertaken. The forest department official informed that as the road section is operational and passing through habitation areas of villages, there is no terrestrial fauna (wildlife) present in the area, the same has been confirmed by local community.
The species sighted directly was recorded in study area. Additionally, the habitat attributes of the study area were also recorded. Habitat attributes included the vegetation types and coverage, proximity from water bodies, aspects, etc. Altogether 4 locations were studied in along the road section alignment within the ESZ area of protected area. The four locations were set up along the project road section alignment area in order get information on birds and fish species in through field survey, habitats, type of vegetation supporting species, agriculture pattern etc.
Out of 4 locations for field study, two locations were in sanctuary area i.e. one inside the bird sanctuary away from road alignment and one spot near the road section alignment, while 2 random spots were considered in north and south directions of sanctuary area.
Each study spot was located in such a way that it represents aquatic part and terrestrial part of DMU in the project influence area of road section alignment or in the established DMU. Synopsis of all studied spots given in Annex-1.
1.6.3 Study Location Details
Altogether 4 locations were studied in the protected areas along the road section alignment during the survey. The coordinates of location, aspect and village area, surrounding landuse, vegetation or type of trees was taken. Location of spot for study with respect to protected area and the name of village boundary were also recorded while setting up the spot for study (Table 4).
213
213 Figure 4: Map showing study spot with respect to Wildlife Sanctuary
214
Table 4: Details of spot for field survey along the road section in protected area Spo Coordinates Location Observed Birds Landuse t Chainage Aspect Village (Actual birds no. (approx. (Side) w.r.t Boundary or nesting, km) road resting etc.) 1 10°42'12.73"N 16+200 North Vaduvoor Actual birds Protected 79°19'13.73"E (RHS) Birds resting & nesting Area for Bird 2 10°41'52.26"N 15+800 North Sanctuary on trees in water Sanctuary 79°19'3.69"E (RHS) (VBS) reservoir 3 10°41'11.95"N 16+300 South Neyvasal Birds on trees & Irrigation 79°19'9.24"E (LHS) Tenpadi in fields for food, Canal & (Irrigation mostly flying Agriculture Canal & over fields in Vegetation) search of food 4 10°42'54.97"N 16+500 North-East Vaduvoor Agriculture & 79°19'19.72"E (RHS) Village tree (Agriculture plantation Fields)
1.6.4 Literature Review
The study on waterbirds and nearby vegetation of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary area was conducted for period April 2008 to April 2010 by Department of Zoology, National College, Tiruchirappallu, Tamil Nadu. The research studies in the project district reveals the occurrence of 118 species of birds belonging to 87 genera, 48 families and 18 orders in the region.
The lake in the protected area harbors near threatened bird species viz. Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis) Darter (Anhinga melanogaster), Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) and Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus). Vegetation in and around the lake consisted of Acacia nilotica (planted), Prosopis chilensis, Azadirachta indica and Tamarindus indica (natural) formed the prime breeding habitat. Most of the birds depend on the nearby paddy field for foraging.
Spot-billed Pelican, a globally near threatened (IUCN 2007) and resident species with local movements in India, total 60 nos. of bird was found thrice in the lake during the study period in June 2009. Similarly, a maximum of 218 painted storks, another near threatened (IUCN 2007) and resident bird with local movements were also observed during the study period. There were no IUCN redlist birds and wildlife recorded from the protected area in study period.
In another study conducted by Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology & Natural History (SACON); during 2006 on avifaunal diversity of the protected area shows that total 1457 birds of 24 species were recorded. The important bird species of the lake is open- bill stork, painted stork, black -winged stilt, little egret and night heron. Night heron is roosted in the dense Accacia forest. Accacia and Prosopis julifera was observed in the wetland corners and the surrounding area. Ipomea carnea was noted as the dominant floating vegetation in the wetland.
1.6.5 Stakeholders’ Consultation The project road section alignment is located in ESZ area of the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary (VBS). A consultation with Divisional Forest Officer, Thiruvarur and with working staff of VBS was conducted. The objective of consultation was to confirm on applicable regulatory requirements for implementation of road section in protected area and measures required during construction and operation stage of road. The consultation brief is given in Table-5.
215
Table 5: Point discussed during consultation with Stakeholders Date& Name and Details Remarks Location Designation 5th Dr. K. Arivoli, • Requirement of clearance • Application for wildlife February District Forest for the project road in ESZ clearance is under 2020, Officer, area and status of process with department; Thanjavur Thiruvarur application with DFO office; • Draft Management Plan Division • Census data from study on for VBS is available with local species and migratory department, the details on 21st Mr. N.V. birds, habitats, core zone species, census data and October Jayachandran, and buffer zone in the VBS conservation measures 2019 Range Forest and nearby; are under preparation in Officer, • Species available or visiting this document. Mannargudi the protected area listed in • Local community IUCN redlist and Schedule awareness and training is list of Wildlife Protection being conducted by forest Acts, 1972; department in the nearby • Period of migratory birds villages, Vetenary Doctor visiting the area; also visit on monthly basis • Measures adopted for to examine animals in the conservation of wetland and village for diseases and terrestrial ecosystem for provide medical migratory species; assistance also. • Awareness to local • No hunting and illegal community on importance poaching of birds has of protected area and been reported from the conservation of species; area. • Local community concerns • Local community is and support for protected supporting department for area; conservation of species in • Reports of illegal poaching the sanctuary area. or hunting of birds in the area; • Data on accidents or wildlife with vehicles on project road section; • Working/management plan for protected area to include measures in line with recommendation mentioned in management plan
Further details on species in the study area and concerns in relation to protected area in the neighborhoods of villagers were collected from local community. It is a fact that people living at human wildlife interface are better acquainted with the wildlife diversity and core habitats. So, informal interviews and discussions mainly concerning on avifaunal and wild animals were conducted at various places with different people specially aged people and community. The records of community consultation are given in Annex-5 and details of community consultation for biodiversity assessment are mentioned in below Table-6.
216
Table 6: Discussion details from community consultation Date & Number and Details Remarks Location Gender 5th Total 5 nos., • Birds visiting the area from • Birds are visiting this February Male –4 nos. last how many years; area from last 20-30 2020, Female- 1 nos. • Period of migratory birds years; Vaduvoor visiting the area; • Mainly in winter season • Knowledge on species of the year; habitat and food sources • Migratory bird can be 5th Total 8 nos., • Damages to crop by birds or sighted in nearby February Male –7 nos. any other harms to pet agriculture fields, no 2020, Female- 1 nos. damage to crops from Neyvasal animals birds Tenpadi • Support provided by authorities to local • Forest Department community provide awareness on • Any other concerns on bird conservation livelihood due to presence of through schools and protected area in vicinity; village community leader • Reports of illegal poaching or • Veterinary Doctor visit hunting of birds in the area; the village to check • Data on accidents or wildlife animals and particular with vehicles on project road disease section. • No illegal hunting or accident reported. • Local community has stopped use of fireworks on festive season so no disturbance to birds in the Sanctuary Area.
The preliminary screening of avifaunal species from the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary area is also performed to filter the migratory bird species. The summary of the screening of bird species using IUCN distribution map on likelihood of in PAI is given in Table-7.
217
Table 7: Preliminary Screening of IUCN redlisted avifaunal species in the Protected area Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category Birds 1 Spot-billed Pelican NT Forest, Wetlands Yes: The species inhabits a variety of deep and shallow wetlands, (Pelecanus (inland), Marine both man-made and natural, freshwater and saline, open and philippensis) Coastal/Supratidal, forested. It breeds colonially in Acacia bushes. As reported by Bird Artificial/Aquatic & Sanctuary staff, the bird species are visiting, and breeding colonies Marine also observed in the protected area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22697604/117970266
2 Darter (Anhinga NT Forest, Wetlands Yes, the species habitat shallow inland wetlands including lakes, melanogaster) (inland), Marine Neritic, rivers, swamps and reservoirs. Confirmed the presence of bird Marine species by Sanctuary staff and recorded from secondary sources. Coastal/Supratidal https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22696712/93582012
3 Painted Stork NT Wetlands (inland), Yes; the birds are mostly observed in freshwater marshes, lakes and (Mycteria Marine reservoirs, flooded fields, rice paddies, irrigation canals, freshwater leucocephala) Coastal/Supratidal, swamp forest, river banks, intertidal mudflats and saltpans. The Artificial/Aquatic & Congregatory bird species are observed in the protected area during Marine field survey. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22697658/93628598
4 Oriental White Ibis NT Forest, Grassland, Yes; the habitat ranges from inland freshwater, tidal creeks, intertidal (Threskiornis Wetlands (inland), mudflats, mangroves, saltmarshes and coastal lagoons. The melanocephalus) Marine Intertidal, Marine Congregatory bird species having migratory in nature is reported Coastal/Supratidal, from the protected area. Artificial/Aquatic & https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22697516/93618317 Marine 5 Northern pintail LC Wetlands (inland), Yes; the migratory bird species prefer habitat of open lowland (Anas acuta) Marine Neritic, Marine grassland, or shallow wetlands of freshwater, brackish and saline Coastal/Supratidal water. The bird has non-breeding habitat in the protected area along the project road section. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22680301/153882797
218
Common Name IUCN S.No. Habitat Preferences Likelihood of Occurrence in PAI (Species Name) Category 6 Indian Cormorant LC Forest, Wetlands Yes; The bird species reported from inland wetland and surrounding (Phalacrocorax (inland), Marine Neritic areas. The bird is following non-migratory movement and fuscicollis) Congregatory in nature. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22696779/132592646
7 Common Teal LC Wetlands (inland) Yes; The migratory bird species mainly habitat inland freshwater, (Anas crecca) visiting the southern parts of India during winter season as non- breeding habitats. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22729717/155455470
8 Oriental Darter NT Forest, Wetlands Yes, the species inhabits shallow inland wetlands including lakes, (Anhinga (inland), Marine Neritic, rivers, swamps and reservoirs. The Congregatory bird species melanogaster) Marine reported from the area. Coastal/Supratidal https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22696712/93582012
9 Common Pochard VU Wetlands (inland), Yes, prefer habitat for the species requires well-vegetated eutrophic (Aythya ferina) Marine Neritic, Marine to neutral swamps, marshes, lakes and slow-flowing rivers with Coastal/Supratidal, areas of open water and abundant emergent fringing vegetation. Artificial/Aquatic & This species are highly migratory in nature. Marine https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22680358/155473754
10 Curlew Sandpiper NT Grassland, Wetlands Yes; in the winter the species visit coastal area with sandy beaches (Calidris ferruginea) (inland), Marine Neritic, and also inland on the muddy edges of marshes, large rivers and Marine Intertidal, Marine lakes (both saline and freshwater). The bird species is fully migrant. Coastal/Supratidal, https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22693431/110631069 Artificial/Aquatic & Marine 11 White-bellied Heron CR Forest, Grassland, None; habitat recorded from small or large rivers often within or (Ardea insignis) Wetlands (inland) adjacent to subtropical/tropical broadleaved forest up to 1,500 m, and marshes/lakes near wet grasslands. The habitat map for the bird species is not include project area of influence. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22697021/134201407
219
An assessment of species likely of occurrence in the PAI is undertaken based on secondary literature and field data collected from protected area. The summary of the screening of species with brief note for species on likelihood of qualifying the PAI as Critical Habitat based on criteria 1-3 is given in Table-8.
Table 8: Details of the habitat analysis in the PAI Scientific Common IUCN Status Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Name name BIRD There are approx. 3000 The bird species may qualify nos. of migratory bird the area as Critical habitat, species counted in from X X X however the population Northern Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary reported from PAI is less than Anas acuta pintail LC area. the threshold of 1 percent. The migratory bird The congregatory bird species species reported from does not qualify the study area the protected area of as Critical Habitat. Vaduvoor Bird X X X Sanctuary; about 5000 Common nos. are reported during Anas crecca Teal LC census 2019. The bird species is The species is considered to present in the protected be a qualifying PAI as critical area, the habitat habitat; based on census the distribution map of this X X ? waterbird having approx. 200 congregatory bird nos. of birds (which more than Anhinga Oreintal species is shown in the 1% of global population) in the melanogaster Darter NT PAI. protected area. A widespread species Not considered to be a which prefers high qualifying species ground and open plains. X X X This species is not Aquila Steppe mentioned in the IBA nipalensis Eagle EN citation (BirdLife
220
Scientific Common IUCN Status Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Name name International, 2019) and is not listed present within area (Lepage 2020). Considered unlikely to meet the thresholds for Criterion 1 – 3 The bird species are The bird species are non- reported from the migrant and congregatory protected area, 20-30 nature; it does notqualify the nos. of birds were X X X project area as critical habitat. recorded in census of Mycteria Painted Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary leucocephala Stork NT area. The habitat distribution The migratory bird species is map for the migratory visiting the Vaduvoor Bird bird shows in the project Sanctuary area; 60 nos. area, however bird recorded in June 2009; hence it species is not recorded X X ? may qualify the area as critical in bird census of habitat. protected area Pelecanus Spot-billed conducted by Forest philippensis Pelican NT Department during 2019. The habitat distribution Not considered to be a map of bird species is qualifying species covering PAI. However; the species is not X X X recorded in the census Black- and presence is also not Sterna bellied confirmed Sanctuary acuticauda Tern EN Staff. The migratory bird The bird species are migratory species recorded in and congregatory in nature and X X ? Threskiornis Oriental census of the protected protected area in PAI holds melanocephalus White Ibis NT area, about 500-600 nos. more than 1 percent of
221
Scientific Common IUCN Status Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Name name population, thus qualify the project area as critical habitat. The migratory bird The species has a very wide species recorded in range which does not include census of the protected the project area based on area, about 600-700 nos. X X X IUCN. The record in the census may have been a Common misidentification and needs to Aythya ferina Pochard VU be verified. The migratory bird The migratory bird species is species recorded in present in the PAI with 30 nos. census of the protected recorded in during 2019; area, about 30 nos. However, it has a very wide X X X range and the number recorded is way below the Calidris Curlew threshold of 1% for the PAI to ferruginea Sandpiper NT qualify as critical habitat. The bird species The protected area is habitat Indian reported from the for a portion of population of X X X Phalacrocorax Cormorant protected area, about bird species, unlikely to qualify fuscicollis LC 160-180 nos. the PAI as critical habitat. MAMMALS A widespread species Not considered to be a which prefers forest, qualifying species shrub and grassland. The species habitat is extended in forests of Eastern Ghats (Karanth X X X et al. 2009). Considered unlikely to meet the thresholds numbers for Criterion 1 – 3 in the Cuon alpinus Dhole EN project area. Manis Indian Present across India and Low potential to fulfil Criterion 1 ? X X crassicaudata Pangolin EN reported to be present in and the agriculture fields are
222
Scientific Common IUCN Status Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Name name the Project Area of mainly of paddy crops as noted Influence based on IUCN in field survey mostly with habitat mapping for plenty of water. Hence less species. The species chance of food for species; it is also occurs in Tamil confirmed the absence of this Nadu (Srinivasulu and species with the PAI. Srinivasulu, 2012). Utilises a range of habitats including degraded sites and agricultural areas. FISH The fish species found in Not considered to be a wide range of habitats qualifying species including fresh in land water to marine water. X X X The PAI is not in the Black IUCN habitat distribution Tor khudree Mahseer EN mapping. x = Not qualify as Critical Habitat; ? = possibly qualifies area as Critical Habitat. Both based on available information.
223
2 BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT FINDINGS
2.1 Biodiversity in project area
Based on secondary sources and as mentioned in IEE report for road section; the presence of tree species of concerns enlisted in IUCN redlist include Ashok (Saraca asoca) as Vulnerable and Tun (Toona ciliate) as Least Concern tree. The dominant tree species within the project area of influence are Neem, Babool, Gulmohar and Banyan as dominant species. The faunal species include mainly of local and migratory birds and Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus), Indian Grey Mongoose (Herpestes edwardsii), are mammal species. List of flora and fauna species in Project area given in Table-9.
Table 9: Details of Flora and Fauna found in project area of influence S.No. Scientific Name Common Name IUCN status List of Floral Species Trees 1 Acacia nilotica (L.) Del. Egyptian Thorn LC indica 2 Acacia polyacantha wild White-stem Thorn LC 3 Annona reticulate L. Sugar Apple LC 4 Azhra sapota Sapota LC 5 Bauhinia purpurea L. Orchid Tree LC 6 Borassus flabellifer Palm (Tadi) NA 7 Carica papaya L. Papaya DD 8 Chloroxylon swietienia DC. Indian Satinwood Tree VU 9 Citrus aurantifolia Lime LC 10 Cleistanthus collinus (Roxb) Garrar VU Benth 11 Cocos nucifera Coconut LC 12 Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Acacia LC Wight&Arn. 13 Ficus racemosa Roxb Indian Macaque LC 14 Ficus religiosa L Temppelivikuna LC 15 Hibiscus tiliaceus L. Sea Hibiscus LC 16 Holoptelea integrifolia Jungle Cork Tree LC (Roxb) Planchon 17 Lannaea coromandelica Indian Ash Tree LC 18 Madhuca longifolia Indian butter Tree LC 19 Mangifera indica L. Mango DD 20 Polyalthia longifolia Indian Fir Tree LC 21 Psidium guajava L Guava LC 22 Saraca asoca Ashok VU 23 Spathodea campanulata African Tulip Tree LC 24 Tamarindus indica Tamarind LC 25 Tecoma stans Yellow Elder LC 26 Terminalia arjuna Arjun Tree LC 27 Thespesia populnea Portia Tree LC 28 Thevetia peruviana Yellow Oleander VU
224
S.No. Scientific Name Common Name IUCN status 29 Toona ciliate Tun LC 30 Wrightia tinctoria Pala indigo plant LC 31 Zizyphus jujube mill Jujube. LC Shrub 32 Abutilon indicum (L.). ssp. Thutthi LC Indicum 33 Bambusa arundinacea Bamboo DD 34 Borreria ocymoides Purple-Leaf Button Weed DD 35 Cassia auriculata L. Aavartaki DD 36 Cleome viscosa L Sticky spider flower DD 37 Crotalaria verrucosa L. Rattlepod LC 38 Datura metel L. Devil's trumpet LC 39 Euphorbia antiquorrum L. Indian spurge tree DD 40 Gmelina asiatica Asian Bushbeech LC 41 Hibiscus rosa sinensis L Hibiscus LC 42 Lawsonia inermis L. Henna LC 43 Passiflora foetida L. Wild maracuja LC 44 Pavonia procumbens Hibiscus LC 45 Phragmites karka Tall Reed LC 46 Phyllanthus debilis Gulf leaf flower LC 47 Ricinus communis L. Castor oil DD List of Faunal Species Butterflies 1 Cepora nerissa Common Gull DD 2 Cirrochroa thais fabricius Tamil Yeoman DD 3 Danaus chrysippus Plain Tiger NA 4 Delias eucharis Common Jezebel DD 5 Eurema hecabe Common Grass Yellow LC 6 Graphium doson Common Jay DD 7 Hypolimnas misippus Danaid Egg fly NA 8 Iambrix salsala Chestnut Bob DD 9 Neptis hylas Common Sailer DD Avifauna 10 Acridotheres tristis Common Myna LC 11 Alcedo atthis Common Kingfisher LC 12 Anas clypeata Northern Shoveller LC 13 Anas crecca Common Teal LC 14 Anas platyrhynchos Duck LC 15 Anastomus oscitans Asian Openbill-Stork LC 16 Anhinga Anhinga Darters LC 17 Anthus rufulus Paddyfield Pipit LC 18 Ardea cinerea Grey Heron LC 19 Ardea purpurea Purple heron LC 20 Ardeola grayii Indian Pond-Heron LC 21 Artamus fuscus Ashy Wood Swallow LC 22 Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck LC 23 Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret LC 24 Caprimulgus asiaticus Common Indian Nightjar LC 25 Casmerodius albus Great White Egret LC 26 Corvus macrorhynchos Jungle Crow LC 27 Corvus splendens House Crow LC 28 Dendrocopos mahrattensis Woodpecker LC
225
S.No. Scientific Name Common Name IUCN status 29 Dicrurus macrocercus Black Drongo LC 30 Egretta garzetta Little Egret LC 31 Eudynamys scolopacea Asian Koel LC 32 Fulica atra Common Coot LC 33 Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe LC 34 Halcyon smyrnensis White-breasted LC Kingfisher 35 Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea Eagle LC 36 Hirundo daurica Swallow DD 37 Merops orientalis Small Bee-eater LC 38 Mesophoyx intermedia Median Egret LC 39 Milvus migrans Black Kite LC 40 Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail LC 41 Mycteria leucocephala Painted Stork NT 42 Phalacrocorax carbo Great Cormorant LC 43 Phalacrocorax niger Little Cormorant LC 44 Philomachus pugnax Ruff LC 45 Pseudibis papillosa Black Ibis LC 46 Sarkidiornis melanotos Knob-billed Duck LC 47 Sterna hirundo Common Tern LC 48 Tringa glareola Wood sandpiper LC Amphibian 49 Duttaphrynus melanostictus Common Indian Toad LC 50 Hoplobatrachus tigerinus Indian Bull Frog LC 51 Sphaerotheca breviceps Indian Burrowing Frog LC 52 Euphlyctis hexadactylus Indian Pond or Green LC Frog 53 Uperodon systoma Marbled Balloon Frog LC 54 Dicroglossidae Mudduraja LC 55 Ramanella Minor Narrow-mouthed Frog DD 56 Microhyla ornate Ornate Narrowmouthed LC Frog 57 Duttaphrynus brevirostris Short-nosed Toad DD Reptile 58 Amphiesma monticola Hill Keel Back LC Jerdon 59 Calodactylodes aureus Indian golden gecko LC 60 Calotes versicolor Common Garden Lizard DD 61 Chamaeleon zeylanicus Indian Chameleon LC 62 Lissemys punctata Indian Flapshell Turtle LC 63 Melanochelys trijuga Indian Black Turtle LC 64 Sitana ponticeriana Fan-throated Lizard LC 65 Sphaerodactylus Dwarf Geko LC 66 Varanus bengalensis Indian Monitor Lizard LC 67 Xenochorphis piscator Epius Indicus LC Fish 68 Anguilla - bicolor Indian Shortfin eel NT 69 Brachyura Crab LC 70 Catla Catla Catla LC 71 Pseudeutropius Indian Potassi LC atherinoides 72 Sepiida Cuttle LC
226
S.No. Scientific Name Common Name IUCN status Mammal 73 Cuon Alpinus Indian wild dog EN 74 Equus onager khur Asiatic Wild Ass NT 75 Funambulus palmarum Three stripped Palm LC squirrel 76 Golunda ellioti Indian bush rat LC 77 Herpestes edwardsii Common Mongoose LC 78 Lynx lynx isabellina Lynx LC 79 Macaca radiate Bonnet macaque VU 80 Mus booduga Little Indian field mouse LC 81 Mus cooki Cooks mouse LC 82 Mus sp. Mice LC 83 Prionailurus rubiginos Rusty Spotted Cat NT 84 Pteropus giganteus Indian flying fox LC 85 Rattus rattus House rat LC Source: Working Plans for Forest Areas of Thiruvarur & Thanjavur Districts and management plan for Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary
The census of avifauna including land and aquatic birds performed in vicinity of protected area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary by Forest Department during February 2019. There were 75 nos. of different species recorded total number of 1203 birds for day one of the study and total 793 numbers of birds were recorded during second day of the study. The census data of waterbird is count of 22484 number of bird presenting 53 species on first day and 24030 number of birds during second day of the study. The details of bird census is Annex-6 and name of different avifaunal species is given in Table-10 &11.
Table 10: Different waterbird species recorded in census of Protected Area Group/Common IUCN S.no Family/Species Name Name Status 1 Oriental White Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus NT 2 Cotton Teal Nettapus coromandelianus LC 3 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus LC 4 Asian Openbill- Anastomus oscitans LC Stork 5 Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus LC 6 Black Ibis Pseudibis papillosa LC Black-crowned LC 7 Night- Heron Nycticorax nycticorax 8 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis LC 9 Common Coot Fulica atra LC 10 Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus LC 11 Common Pochard Aythya ferina VU 12 Common Tringa totanus LC Redshank 13 Common Actitis hypoleucos LC Sandpiper 14 Common Teal Anas crecca LC 15 Common Tern Sterna hirundo LC 16 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea NT
227
Group/Common IUCN S.no Family/Species Name Name Status 17 Darter Anhinga melanogaster NT 18 Garganey Anas querquedula LC 19 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus LC 20 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo LC 21 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus LC 22 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea LC 23 Indian Pond-Heron Ardeola grayii LC 24 Indian shag Phalacrocorax fuscicollis LC 25 Large Egret Casmerodius albus LC Lesser Sand Charadrius mongolus LC 26 Plover 27 Lesser-whistling Dendrocygna javanica LC Duck 28 Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger LC 29 Little Egret Egretta garzetta LC 30 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis LC 31 Little Ringed Charadrius dubius LC Plover 32 Little Stint Calidris minuta LC 33 Little Tern Sterna albifrons LC 34 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis LC 35 Median Egret Mesophoyx intermedia LC 36 Northern Pintail Anas acuta LC 37 Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata LC 38 Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala NT 39 Pheasant-tailed Hydrophasia Jacana nuschirurgus LC 40 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea LC 41 Purple Moorhen Porphyrio porphyrio LC 42 Red-wattled Vanellus indicus LC Lapwing 43 River Tern Sterna aurantia NT 44 Ruff Philomachus pugnax LC 45 Sanderling Calidris alba LC 46 Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha LC 47 Western Reef- Egretta gularis LC Egret 48 White Amaurornis LC breasted phoenicurus Water Hen 49 White-bellied Ardea insignis CR Heron 50 White- Amaurornis LC breasted phoenicurus Waterhen
228
Group/Common IUCN S.no Family/Species Name Name Status 51 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola LC 52 Yellow Bittern Ixobrychus sinensis LC 53 Yellow-wattled Lapwing Vanellus malabaricus LC
Table 11: Different landbird species recorded in census of Protected Area
IUCN Group/Common Sl.no Family/Species Name Status Name 1 Grey Francolin Francolinus LC pondicerianus 2 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix LC 3 Asian Koel Eudynamys scolopacea LC 4 Small Green-billed Phaenicophaeus LC Malkoha viridirostris 5 Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis LC 6 Coppersmith Barbet Megalaima LC haemacephala 7 Jerdon's Bush-Lark Mirafra affinis LC 8 Large Pied Wagtail Motacilla LC maderaspatensis 9 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava LC 10 Common Woodshrike Tephrodornis LC pondicerianus 11 Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer LC 12 Acrocephalus LC Blyths Reed-Warbler dumetorum 13 Ashy Prinia Prinia socialis LC 14 Asian Palm-Swift Cypsiurus balasiensis LC 15 Asian Paradise- Terpsiphone paradisi LC Flycatcher 16 Baya Weaver Ploceus philipeinus LC 17 Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus LC 18 Blue Rock Pigeon Columba livia LC 19 Brahminy Starling Sturnus pagodarum 20 Common Babbler Turdoides caudatus 21 Common Hawk Hierococcy LC Cuckoo 22 Common Iora Aegithins tiphia LC 23 Common Myna Acridotheres tristis LC 24 Common Tailorbird Orthotomus sutorius LC 25 Crested Serpent- Spilornis cheela LC Eagle 26 Eurasian Collared- Streptopelia decaocto LC Dove 27 Eurasian Golden Oriolus oriolus LC Oriole 28 House Crow Corvus splendens LC 29 Indian Blue Robin Luscinia brunnea LC 30 Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus LC 31 Indian Pitta Pitta brachyura LC
229
IUCN Group/Common Sl.no Family/Species Name Status Name 32 Indian Robin Saxicoloides fulicata LC 33 Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis LC 34 Indian Silverbill Euodice malabarica LC 35 Indian Treepie Dendrocitta vagabunda LC 36 Jungle Crow Corvus macrorhynchos LC 37 Lesser LC Golden- Dinopium benghalense backed Woodpecker 38 Lesser Pied Ceryle rudis LC Kingfisher 39 Oriental Honey- Pernisptil orhynchus LC Buzzard 40 Oriental Magpie- Copsychus saularis LC Robin 41 Paddy field Pipit Anthus rufulus LC 42 Pied Crested Cuckoo Clamator jacobinus LC 43 Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis LC 44 Purple Sunbird Nectarinia asiatica LC 45 Purple-rumped Nectarinia zeylonica LC Sunbird 46 Rose-ringed Psittacula krameri LC Parakeet 47 Rosy Starling Sturnus roseus LC 48 Rufous-bellied LC Plaintive Cacomantis merulinus Cuckoo 49 Shikra Accipiter badius LC 50 Small Blue Alcedo atthis LC Kingfisher 51 Sparrow lark Eremopterix griseus LC 52 Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis LC 53 Spotted Munia Lonchura punctulata LC 54 Spotted Owlet Athenebrama LC 55 Western Marsh- Circus aeruginosus LC Harrier 56 White-breasted Halcyon smyrnensis LC Kingfisher 57 White-eyed Buzzard Butastur teesa LC
2.2 Migratory Route
India lies along the Central Asian Flyway, a global migratory pathway that connects the Palearctic (Europe and Northern Asia) to the Indian subcontinent. The birds that utilize this flyway congregate at key water bodies around India. The project site is located along the Central Asian Flyway. The flyway is also important for migratory waders, with arctic-breeding species travelling from northern and central Siberia to winter in South Asia, principally along the east coast of India. The protected Vaduvoor Lake is also an important water reservoir utilized by migratory birds for their flyway, refer figure-5.
230
Figure 5: Map of central Asia flyway and project location
231
The list of migratory birds species having flyway zone over the project area of influence were screened from the local bird species, the list of birds using the flyway zone and visiting the project region as mentioned various in secondary literature are given in Table-12.
Table 12: Migratory avifauna in listed in the Project area of Influence S.no Group/Common Name Family/Species Name IUCN Status 1 Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus LC 2 Common Pochard Aythya ferina VU 3 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix LC 4 Common Redshank Tringa totanus LC 5 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos LC 6 Common Teal Anas crecca LC 7 Common Tern Sterna hirundo LC 8 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea NT 9 Garganey Anas querquedula LC 10 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus LC 11 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo LC 12 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus LC 13 Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus LC 14 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis LC 15 Little Stint Calidris minuta LC 16 Little Tern Sterna albifrons LC 17 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis LC 18 Northern Pintail Anas acuta LC 19 Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata LC 20 Pheasant-tailed Hydrophasia Jacana nuschirurgus LC 21 Ruff Philomachus pugnax LC 22 Sanderling Calidris alba LC 23 Western Marsh-Harrier Circus aeruginosus LC 24 Western Reef-Egret Egretta gularis LC 25 White-bellied Heron Ardea insignis CR 26 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola LC 27 Yellow Bittern Ixobrychus sinensis LC
2.3 Results of Field Survey
2.3.1 Avifauna (Birds Species)
Altogether 14 species of birds were observed during the survey in study area (DMU) along the road alignment.
12 out of 14 bird species were spotted in water reservoir area as represented by spot no. 1 & 2. All the species recorded in the study area belong to waterbirds. The birds observed in the study area are given in below Table 13.
232
Table 13: Birds species observed in DMU established in PAI for field survey S. Common Name Scientific Location Remarks No. Name Spot Number 1 Great White Egret Casmerodius Spot No.-1& 2 albus
2 Little Egret Egretta garzetta
3 Common Teal Anas crecca
4 Ruff Philomachus pugnax
5 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula
6 Knob-billed Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos
7 Common Coot Fulica atra
8 Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata Spot No. 1&2
9 Asian Openbill- Anastomus Stork oscitans
10 Black Ibis Pseudibis
papillosa Northern Shoveller
11 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea
12 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Asian Openbill-Stork
233
S. Common Name Scientific Location Remarks No. Name Spot Number
Great Cormorant 13 Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax Spot No.-3 niger
14 Median Egret Mesophoyx Spot No. -4 intermedia
Source: Field survey along proposed road section alignment in Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary area
The bird species are observed on trees in wetland resting, roosting, feeding and breeding. Flying birds were also noted in the area during day time the number is less, as most of birds out in search of food in different directions in agriculture fields. A few numbers of birds were seen in the agriculture fields near to protected area and this was also confirmed by villagers. This behavior may be due to less chances of getting food with frequent visit birds in the nearby area.
2.3.2 Threatened Species
Based on field survey and consultation with stakeholder it is confirmed that in PAI for the road section is habitat for migratory bird species. The protected area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary is supporting large number of avifaunal species for major lifecycle activities of migratory birds. The list of threatened species present or visiting the area is given in Table 14.
Table 14: Birds species in project affected area listed in IUCN red list (2020-2) S. No. Common Scientific Name Family IUCN Status Name 1 Common Aythya ferina Anatidae Vulnerable Pochard 2 Curlew Calidris ferruginea Scolopacidae Near Sandpiper Threatened 3 Oriental Darter Anhinga Anhingidae Near melanogaster Threatened
234
S. No. Common Scientific Name Family IUCN Status Name 4 Black-headed Threskiornis Threskiornithi Near Ibis melanocephalus dae Threatened 5 Painted Stork Mycteria Ciconiidae Near leucocephala Threatened 6 Spot-billed Pelecanus Pelecanidae Near Pelican philippensis Threatened
The analysis of Critical habitat of bird species listed in threatened category is provided in Table 3. These species from IUCN redlist either visiting the PAI or habitat in the protected area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary.
2.3.3 Fishes
There is Vennaru river, a tributary of Cauvery river in the vicinity of proposed road section alignment. There are fish species reported in the project area which include anguilla – bicolor, Brachyura, Bramidae, Catla Catla, Centropristis striata, Engraulidae, Gadus, Lutjanus fulviflammus, Pseudeutropius atherinoides, Pseudorhombus arsius, Rastrelliger kanagurta, Sardina pilchardus, Sepiida, Seriola lalandi and Siluriformes. There no fish species of globally threatened list reported from the water bodies of the area.
2.4 Results of IBAT Analysis
2.4.1 Vulnerable Species
Out of 147 vulnerable species identified through the IBAT search, detailed assessment for 51 threatened category species was performed. The assessment is conducted using information from secondary sources and IUCN redlist. The review of assessment study indicates that none of the species would reach the threshold for Criterion 1, assigned for loss of a population which would push the IUCN status from VU to either CR or EN.
2.4.2 Criteria 1 – 3 (IBAT and Other Data Sources)
In addition, to the above records from IBAT, a review of other potential CR, EN or relevant VU species was conducted, mainly directly through IUCN Red List and also by literature search. This also allowed account of regionally CR and EN species. The IUCN Redlist was filtered for the coastal areas and Western Ghat region of Tamil Nadu. The list mainly includes some marine based species which were excluded from the screening process.
The assessment of avifaunal species was undertaken for the Criteria -3 on Migratory and Congregatory species. The protected area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary have recorded presence of Pelecanus philippensis (Spot-billed Pelican), Threskiornis melanocephalus (Oriental White Ibis), Phalacrocorax fuscicollis (Indian Cormorant), Aythya ferina (Common Pochard), Mycteria leucocephala (Painted Stork), Northern pintail (Anas acuta) and Common Teal (Anas crecca). Thus, the presence of these migratory avifaunal species in PAI qualify the project area as Critical Habitat.
2.4.3 Criteria 4 & 5 (Unique Ecosystems and Key Evolutionary Processes)
In addition to the assessment of the extinction threat to species, the IUCN has commenced a program of assessing ecosystems in a similar manner. The ecosystem within the project area of influence has not been assessed to date. The ecosystem within the PAI is not considered
235 to be highly threatened, with much of it in habitation or agricultural land use. Therefore, the PAI does not meet the thresholds set out in Criterion 4, including:
• Areas representing ≥5% of the global extent of an ecosystem type meeting the criteria for IUCN status of CR or EN. • Other areas not yet assessed by IUCN but determined to be of high priority for conservation by regional or national systematic conservation planning.
Key evolutionary processes often occur where habitats and ecosystems have become isolated, for example on islands. Indicative of key evolutionary process areas would be the presence of a high number of endemic or range restricted species. There are no known key evolutionary processes within the PAI.
2.4.4 Protected Areas
ADB SPS states that designated or proposed designation sites at an international level should be considered as Critical Habitat. The consideration for Critical Habitat does not extend to nationally designated sites as per ADB SPS. In the PAI there is a protected area of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary designated as an IBA site. The avifaunal species recorded from the Nationally Protected site of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary are qualifying the Criteria 3 of Critical Habitat..
2.5 Conclusion regarding Critical Habitat
The project area is qualifying for Critical Habitat for the migratory and Congregatory avifaunal species in the project area of influence. Thus, mitigation measures and conservation actions are proposed as part of the EMP (during pre-construction, construction, and during the initial project operation) for the Wildlife and Avifauna in the ESZ of Vaudvoor Bird Sanctuary such as field monitoring in and around the project area to establish birds range, distribution and population status in the project area whilst assessing its habitat requirements and identifying and mitigating threats.
3 CONCLUSION
3.1 Summary
The road section alignment is passing through notified ESZ of Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary. The protected area of bird sanctuary is habitat for local and migratory birds. The most of local birds found are not listed in globally threatened species category. There are six globally threatened migratory bird species are identified in biodiversity assessment study for in the Project area. The Screening study for Critical Habitat indicates that within the PAI there are bird species which would qualify the area as Critical Habitat for Migratory and Congregatory Species. The assessment of habitat of qualifying avifauna species and potential impacts of the project on species habitats has resulted in that the area is classed as Critical Habitat.
236
ANNEX 1: SYNOPSIS OF STUDIED SPOT IN PAI
Date: 05-02-2020 Name of data collector: H. Ibomacha
Name of road section/point: 16+200 Spot No.: 1
Slope: Plain Aspect: North (RHS) Altitude:
Exact Approximate location/Plot Sighting (Actual animal or distance number and local Name of wildlife sign of animal – footprint, Frequency of between two No. name of area species/common name droppings etc.) sighting sightings 1 Great White Egret 2 Little Egret Continue Within water 3 Common Teal (resting, Vaduvoor Birds reservoir area Actual Sighting roosting and 4 Sanctuary (VBS) Ruff of Bird swimming) in Sanctuary 5 Tufted Duck Water reservoir 6 Knob-billed Duck 7 Common Coot Date: 05-02-2020 Name of data collector: H. Ibomacha
Name of road section/point: 15+800 Spot No.: 2
Slope: Plain Aspect: North (RHS) Altitude:
Exact Approximate location/Plot Sighting (Actual animal or distance number and local Name of wildlife sign of animal – footprint, Frequency of between two No. name of area species/common name droppings etc.) sighting sightings 1 Northern Shoveller Continue Within water 2 Asian Openbill-Stork (resting, Vaduvoor Birds reservoir area Actual Sighting roosting and 3 Sanctuary (VBS) Black Ibis of Bird swimming) in Sanctuary 4 Grey Heron Water reservoir 5 Great Cormorant Date: 05-02-2020 Name of data collector: H. Ibomacha
Name of road section/point: 16+300 Spot No.: 3
Slope: Palin Aspect: South (LHS) Altitude:
Exact Approximate location/Plot Sighting (Actual animal or distance number and local Name of wildlife sign of animal – footprint, Frequency of between two No. name of area species/common name droppings etc.) sighting sightings Neyvasal Tenpadi Once in Stream Only once in (Irrigation Canal & Actual Sighting Water stream area 1 Vegetation) Little Cormorant
237
Date: 05-02-2020
Name of road section/point: 16+500
Slope: Plain Aspect: North-East (RHS) Altitude:
Exact Approximate location/Plot Sighting (Actual animal or distance number and local Name of wildlife sign of animal – footprint, Frequency of between two No. name of area species/common name droppings etc.) sighting sightings Only once on Once, resting tree in Actual Sighting Vaduvoor Village on tree agriculture 1 (Agriculture Fields) Median Egret fields
238
ANNEX 2. GLIMPSES FROM THE FIELD
Team at Vaduvoor Bird Sancturay planning for Bird Sanctuary boundary along the road section field survey
Agriculture fields along the road section Nearby agriculture fields and residential building opposite to Bird Sanctuary Ares
Water intake from river to Bird Sanctuary Water lake surrounded by bound in three side and one reservoir side by road
239
Plantation done on bound of reservoir Birds roosting on plants in water reservoir point away from road alignment
Birds roosting on plants in water reservoir Birds on ground and trees in bird sanctuary area nearest point to road alignment
Bird watch tower and guard room along the Trees and stream in the ESZ area of Vaduvoor Bird road section Sanctuary
240
Birds roosting on plants in water reservoir
241 ANNEX- 3 SAMPLE QUESTIONNAIRE FOR FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSIONS
QUESTIONNAIRE FOR FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSIONS/COMMUNITY
Physical Environmental Features: 1. From where do you source your drinking water? 2. Are there any issues with water in your community? If yes, what is the issue and what do you think is causing it? 3. What do you think will solve the water problem? 4. Do you have any problems with noise? If so what is causing it? 5. Do you have any problems with soil (erosion, low fertility etc.)? If yes what do you think is causing it? For how long has the problem been existing? 6. What do you think would help solve the soil problem? 7. Is there any past history of natural calamities such as flood, drought, hailstones, earthquake etc. in your village? If so describe and mention when it happened? Vegetation: 1. Do you consume any trees or plants from the forest next to your village? If yes what is the local name of the plants and what do you use them for? (edible plants, medicinal plants etc.)
Sl. Local name of plant Use No.
2. Which plant or tree is most abundantly found in the forest next to your village? How would you measure the abundance? (number of trees per decimal/acre or other measurements)
Wildlife: 1. What are the wild animals (including birds) found in the forest next to or village?
Animal name Frequency of Timing of seeing (Mention actual sighting Location of Sl. No. (month and time of sighting or signs animal/ animal sighting day) of animal) sign
242
Wild Animal 1. What type of Wild Animals did you see in this region? Name-
2. Do you notice any changes in the numbers of Wild Animals that you see today in comparison to the past? How long ago would be “the past”?
3. What is the change? What do you think is causing the change?
4. Have there been any Animal accidents with vehicles this year? If so, how many? Have there been any accidents over the past few years? Is this a common occurrence? 5. According to your observation do you notice any changes in the behavior of the Wild Animals in the area? (more friendly to humans? Anything else etc.)
Asian Elephant 6. How many Asian Elephant’s did you see this year?
7. Do you notice any changes in the numbers of Elephant’s that you see today in comparison to the past? How long ago would be “the past”?
8. What is the change? What do you think is causing the change?
9. Have there been any Elephant accidents with vehicles this year? If so, how many? Have there been any accidents over the past few years? Is this a common occurrence? 10. According to your observation do you notice any changes in the behavior of the Elephant’s? (more friendly to humans? Anything else etc.)
Religious/Cultural sites 1. Are there any religious/cultural/historical sites monuments around your village? If so name them and give a slight background on them. 2. Where is the site/monument located?
Others 1. Would you have any suggestions/ideas to improve the natural environment of your area? 2. Are you happy that your village is close to the highway? Why?
243 (Note down any other relevant information that you may get from the people)
FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION-List of Participants
Chainage/Road section From:______To:______
Location:______Date:______
S. No. Names of participants Gender Occupation Signature 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
244
ANNEX-4 STAKEHOLDERS’ CONSULTATION
Consultation with DFO, Thiruvarur Consultation with Staff at Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary
Consultation with Forest Range Officer at Mannargudi
Consultation with Forest Range Officer at Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary
245 ANNEX- 5: DISCUSSION/CONSULTATION WITH COMMUNITY
Discussion with community at Vaduvoor Village
Discussion with local community (farmer) at Vaduvoor village
246
Discussion with community at Neyvasal Tenpadi Village
Discussion with local community (Seed and Fertilizer) shop owner at Vaduvoor village
247
248
ANNEX-6: BIRD CENSUS DATA IN VADUVOOR BIRDS SANCTUARY
Vaduvur Birds Sanctuary Census Data – Land Birds Day 1 : 07/Feb/2019 Total No.of Species Recorded 61 Total No.of Birds Counted = 1203
Sl.no Common Species Name Total No’s 1 2 3 4 5 Name Day 1 Count 1 Oriental Honey- Pernisptil orhynchus 3 1 0 1 1 0 Buzzard 2 Crested Serpent- Spilornis cheela 2 1 0 0 0 1 Eagle 3 Western Marsh- Circus aeruginosus 1 1 0 0 0 0 Harrier 4 Shikra Accipiter badius 6 3 1 0 1 1 5 White-eyed Butastur teesa 4 1 1 1 0 1 Buzzard 6 Black Eagle Ictinaetus malayensis 1 1 0 0 0 Francolinus 7 Grey Francolin 1 1 0 0 3 pondicerianus 5 8 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix 13 4 3 6 0 0 9 Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus 25 5 0 3 7 10 10 Blue Rock Pigeon Columba livia 1 0 0 1 11 Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis 37 5 11 5 1 15 12 Eurasian Collared- Streptopelia decaocto 10 2 3 0 0 5 Dove 13 Rose-ringed Psittacula krameri 30 11 2 5 8 4 Parakeet 14 Common Hawk Hierococcy 9 3 2 0 4 0 Cuckoo 15 Pied Crested Clamator jacobinus 8 1 0 2 0 5 Cuckoo Rufous- 16 Cacomantis merulinus 0 2 0 1 0 bellied 3 Plaintive Cuckoo Eudynamys 17 Asian Koel scolopacea 6 2 1 2 1 0 Small Phaenicophaeus 18 Green- viridirostris 4 0 1 3 0 0 billed Malkoha 19 Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis 4 1 2 0 1 0 20 Spotted Owlet Athenebrama 7 2 3 0 2 0 21 Asian Palm-Swift Cypsiurus balasiensis 45 10 5 24 0 6 22 Small Blue Alcedo atthis 16 3 7 3 1 2 Kingfisher 23 White-breasted Halcyon smyrnensis 6 2 0 1 2 1 Kingfisher 24 Lesser Pied Ceryle rudis 6 2 1 0 2 1 Kingfisher 25 Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis 5 0 2 0 0 3 26 Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis 2 1 0 1 0 0 Megalaima 27 Coppersmith 2 2 0 7 0
249
Sl.no Common Species Name 1 2 3 4 5 Total No’s Name Day 1 Count Barbet haemacephala 11 Lesser Dinopium 28 1 0 2 1 0 Golden- benghalense 4 backed Woodpecker 29 Jerdon's Bush- Mirafra affinis 2 0 1 1 0 0 Lark 30 Sparrow lark Eremopterix griseus 6 1 0 0 5 0 31 Indian Pitta Pitta brachyura 3 1 0 2 0 0 Motacilla 32 Large Pied maderaspatensis 5 1 3 1 0 0 Wagtail 33 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava 5 2 1 0 1 1 34 Paddyfield Pipit Anthus rufulus 25 3 7 10 0 5 Tephrodornis 35 Common 1 0 1 3 0 pondicerianus 5 Woodshrike 36 Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer 63 8 12 18 25 0 37 Common Iora Aegithins tiphia 6 2 0 3 1 0 38 Ashy Prinia Prinia socialis 15 2 4 7 2 0 Acrocephalus 39 Blyths Reed- dumetorum 11 3 6 2 0 0 Warbler 40 Common Orthotomus sutorius 4 2 1 0 1 0 Tailorbird 41 Plain prinia Prinia inornata 3 1 1 0 1 0 42 Purple-rumped Nectarinia zeylonica 11 3 2 5 1 0 Sunbird 43 Purple Sunbird Nectarinia asiatica 11 2 3 4 2 0 44 Eurasian Golden Oriolus oriolus 5 2 2 1 0 0 Oriole 45 Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus 142 22 17 28 30 45 Dendrocitta 46 Indian Treepie vagabunda 4 1 3 0 0 0 47 House Crow Corvus splendens 32 7 10 4 7 4 48 Jungle Crow Corvus macrorhynchos 6 3 2 0 0 1 49 Brahminy Starling Sturnus pagodarum 39 5 19 10 0 5 50 Rosy Starling Sturnus roseus 55 30 0 10 0 15 51 Common Myna Acridotheres tristis 49 7 18 15 6 3 52 Common Babbler Turdoides caudatus 114 15 25 30 14 30 53 Indian Blue Robin Luscinia brunnea 6 2 1 2 1 0 54 Oriental Magpie- Copsychus saularis 7 1 0 1 2 3 Robin 55 Indian Robin Saxicoloides fulicata 8 3 2 1 2 0 56 Spotted Munia Lonchura punctulata 19 5 0 0 14 0 57 Black-headed Lonchura malacca 27 8 11 0 0 8 Munia 58 Indian Silverbill Euodice malabarica 7 2 0 3 0 2 59 Asian Paradise- Terpsiphone paradisi 6 2 1 2 1 0 Flycatcher 60 Spotted Owlet Athenebrama 8 3 0 2 3 0 61 Baya Weaver Ploceus philipeinus 220 35 70 35 80 0
250
Vaduvur Birds Sanctuary Census Data – Land Birds Day 2 : 08/Feb/2019 Total No.of Bird Species Recorded 58 Total No.of Birds Counted = 793
Total Sl.no Group/Common Family/Species Name Name No’s Day 2 1 2 3 4 5 Count 1 Oriental Honey- Pernisptil 1 0 0 0 1 0 Buzzard orhynchus 2 Crested Serpent-Eagle Spilornis cheela 4 1 1 0 1 1 3 Western Marsh-Harrier Circus 1 0 0 0 0 1 aeruginosus 4 Shikra Accipiter badius 4 0 2 0 1 1 5 White-eyed Buzzard Butastur teesa 4 1 1 1 0 1 Francolinus 6 Grey Francolin pondicerianus 5 1 1 0 0 3
7 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix 13 4 3 6 0 0 8 Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus 15 3 0 0 7 5 9 Blue Rock Pigeon Columba livia 5 0 3 0 2 0 10 Spotted Dove Streptopelia 22 2 7 4 3 6 chinensis 11 Eurasian Collared- Streptopelia 8 3 3 2 0 0 Dove decaocto 12 Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula 10 3 2 3 2 0 krameri 13 Common Hawk Hierococcy 4 0 1 0 2 1 Cuckoo 14 Pied Crested Cuckoo Clamator 12 4 0 2 4 2 jacobinus Rufous-bellied 15 Plaintive Cacomantis 5 0 3 0 2 0 Cuckoo merulinus
16 Asian Koel Eudynamys 6 3 0 0 1 2 scolopacea Phaenicophaeus 17 Small Green-billed viridirostris 1 1 0 0 0 0 Malkoha
18 Greater Coucal Centropus 2 1 1 0 0 0 sinensis 19 Spotted Owlet Athenebrama 7 2 3 0 2 0 20 Asian Palm-Swift Cypsiurus 20 7 0 13 0 0 balasiensis 21 Small Blue Kingfisher Alcedo atthis 12 3 1 3 2 3 22 White-breasted Halcyon 10 3 1 2 3 1 Kingfisher smyrnensis 23 Lesser Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis 4 1 0 3 0 0 24 Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis 4 0 0 1 1 2 25 Indian Roller Coracias 1 0 0 0 1 0 benghalensis Megalaima 26 Coppersmith Barbet haemacephala 3 0 0 1 1 1
251
Total Sl.no Group/Common Family/Species Name Name No’s Day 2 1 2 3 4 5 Count Lesser 27 Golden- Dinopium 1 0 1 0 0 0 benghalense backed Woodpecker
28 Jerdon's Bush-Lark Mirafra affinis 6 2 1 3 0 0 29 Sparrow lark Eremopterix 7 2 0 3 2 0 griseus 30 Indian Pitta Pitta brachyura 2 2 0 0 0 0 Motacilla 31 Large Pied Wagtail maderaspatensis 1 0 0 1 0 0
32 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava 4 0 1 0 3 0 33 Paddyfield Pipit Anthus rufulus 5 0 2 1 0 2 Tephrodornis 34 Common Woodshrike pondicerianus 4 2 0 0 2 0
35 Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus 49 2 0 28 12 7 cafer 36 Common Iora Aegithins tiphia 1 0 0 1 0 0 37 Ashy Prinia Prinia socialis 2 0 1 0 1 0 Acrocephalus 38 Blyths Reed-Warbler dumetorum 11 3 6 2 0 0 39 Common Tailorbird Orthotomus 1 1 0 0 0 0 sutorius 40 Purple-rumped Nectarinia 34 5 11 3 15 0 Sunbird zeylonica 41 Purple Sunbird Nectarinia 11 2 3 4 2 0 asiatica 42 Eurasian Golden Oriolus oriolus 5 0 0 3 2 0 Oriole 43 Black Drongo Dicrurus 105 7 11 37 19 31 macrocercus 44 Indian Treepie Dendrocitta 3 1 1 0 1 0 vagabunda 45 House Crow Corvus 8 2 3 1 2 0 splendens 46 Jungle Crow Corvus 36 11 2 5 17 1 macrorhynchos 47 Brahminy Starling Sturnus 31 3 21 7 0 0 pagodarum 48 Rosy Starling Sturnus roseus 20 2 10 5 3 0 49 Common Myna Acridotheres 26 3 7 12 4 0 tristis 50 Common Babbler Turdoides 114 15 25 30 14 30 caudatus 51 Indian Blue Robin Luscinia 10 3 1 4 2 0 brunnea 52 Oriental Magpie-Robin Copsychus 2 1 0 0 1 0 saularis 53 Indian Robin Saxicoloides 8 2 2 1 3 0 fulicata 54 Spotted Munia Lonchura 11 3 0 0 6 2 punctulata 55 Indian Silverbill Euodice 11 7 0 0 4 0
252
Total Sl.no Group/Common Family/Species Name Name No’s Day 2 1 2 3 4 5 Count malabarica 56 Asian Paradise- Terpsiphone 14 3 5 3 3 0 Flycatcher paradisi 57 Spotted Owlet Athenebrama 5 0 0 2 3 0 58 Baya Weaver Ploceus 62 15 10 7 30 0 philipeinus
Vaduvur Birds Sanctuary Census Data – Water Birds Day 1 : 07/Feb/2019 Total No.of Species Recorded = 53 Total No.of Birds Counted = 22484
Sl.no Common Species Name Total Name no.of 1 2 3 4 5 birds 1 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis 12 3 4 1 2 2 2 Little Phalacrocorax niger 1204 180 345 289 215 175 Cormorant 3 Great Phalacrocorax carbo 261 75 90 15 45 36 Cormorant 4 Indian shag Phalacrocorax fuscicollis 189 55 40 24 10 60 5 Darter Anhinga melanogaster 167 43 30 54 8 32 6 Little Egret Egretta garzetta 590 75 67 80 48 320 7 Western Reef- Egretta gularis 15 5 3 0 0 7 Egret 8 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 101 27 19 39 7 9 9 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea 20 5 7 2 1 5 10 Large Egret Casmerodius albus 404 60 55 90 64 135 11 White-bellied Ardea insignis 4 2 0 0 1 1 Heron 12 Median Egret Mesophoyx intermedia 159 43 30 46 29 11 13 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis 129 19 37 42 31 0 14 Indian Pond- Ardeola grayii 47 5 18 7 11 6 Heron Black-crowned 15 Nycticorax nycticorax Night- Heron 65 2 11 6 15 31 16 Yellow Bittern Ixobrychus sinensis 5 1 0 0 3 1 17 Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala 7 5 2 0 0 0 18 Asian Openbill- Anastomus oscitans 301 65 73 36 59 68 Stork Threskiornis 19 Oriental White melanocephalus 772 84 125 28 210 325 Ibis 20 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus 575 250 60 35 150 80 21 Black Ibis Pseudibis papillosa 69 6 18 0 15 30 22 Bar-headed Anser indicus 18 2 0 7 3 6 Goose
253
Sl.no Common Species Name Total Name no.of 1 2 3 4 5 birds Nettapus 23 Cotton Teal coromandelianus 940 200 150 110 150 330 24 Spot-billed Anas poecilorhyncha 2410 260 750 350 200 850 Duck 25 Northern Anas clypeata 3630 700 640 590 400 1300 Shoveller 26 Northern Anas acuta 1800 300 450 200 150 700 Pintail 27 Garganey Anas querquedula 22 0 10 0 0 12 28 Common Teal Anas crecca 3380 650 300 250 580 1600 29 Lesser- Dendrocygna javanica 166 0 16 50 25 75 whistling Duck 30 Common Aythya ferina 715 80 210 0 100 325 Pochard White breasted 31 Water Hen Amaurornis phoenicurus 58 8 0 13 25 12 Pheasant- Hydrophasia 32 tailed nuschirurgus 26 3 6 0 10 7 Jacana 33 Little Ringed Charadrius dubius 21 1 3 12 5 0 Plover 34 Lesser Sand Charadrius mongolus 39 6 12 7 11 3 Plover Yellow-wattled 35 Lapwing Vanellus malabaricus 31 16 0 6 2 7 36 Red-wattled Vanellus indicus 86 35 7 11 4 29 Lapwing 37 Common Tringa totanus 15 3 5 0 0 7 Redshank 38 Marsh Tringa stagnatilis 107 6 11 10 35 45 Sandpiper 39 Green Tringa ochropus 14 9 0 0 0 5 Sandpiper 40 Wood Tringa glareola 41 11 0 0 7 23 Sandpiper 41 Common Actitis hypoleucos 21 15 6 Sandpiper 42 Sanderling Calidris alba 7 2 0 1 3 1 43 Little Stint Calidris minuta 35 20 4 0 11 0 44 Curlew Calidris ferruginea 29 5 11 8 0 5 Sandpiper 45 Ruff Philomachus pugnax 2410 550 300 650 110 800 46 Black-winged Himantopus himantopus 368 70 180 40 0 78 Stilt 47 Common Tern Sterna hirundo 53 5 15 0 5 28 48 Little Tern Sterna albifrons 9 2 0 0 0 7 49 River Tern Sterna aurantia 34 11 0 20 2 1
254
Sl.no Common Species Name Total Name no.of 1 2 3 4 5 birds White-breasted 50 Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus 103 15 25 30 15 18 51 Purple Porphyrio porphyrio 36 2 0 6 18 10 Moorhen 52 Common Gallinula chloropus 9 0 0 0 4 5 Moorhen 53 Common Coot Fulica atra 755 160 170 55 60 310
Vaduvur Birds Sanctuary Census Data – Water Birds Day 2 : 08/Feb/2019 Total No.of Species Recorded = 53 Total No.of Birds Counted = 24030
S.n Group/Comm Family/Species Total o on Name Name no.of 1 2 3 4 5 birds 1 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis 12 3 4 1 2 2 2 Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger 200 23 34 289 60 543 7 0 5 0 3 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 224 75 90 15 8 36 4 Indian shag Phalacrocorax 165 55 30 20 40 20 fuscicollis 5 Darter Anhinga melanogaster 26 7 2 3 5 9 6 Little Egret Egretta garzetta 316 75 67 80 48 46 7 Western Reef-Egret Egretta gularis 15 5 3 0 0 7 8 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 101 27 19 39 7 9 9 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea 20 5 7 2 1 5 10 Large Egret Casmerodius albus 140 15 18 29 64 14 11 White-bellied Heron Ardea insignis 4 2 0 0 1 1 12 Median Egret Mesophoyx intermedia 132 54 30 12 25 11 13 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis 74 7 6 42 7 12 14 Indian Pond-Heron Ardeola grayii 47 5 18 7 11 6 Black-crowned 15 Nycticorax nycticorax 40 21 1 7 3 8 Night- Heron 16 Yellow Bittern Ixobrychus sinensis 6 10 16 10 35 60 17 Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala 19 0 4 7 3 5 18 Asian Openbill-Stork Anastomus oscitans 343 67 55 70 11 39 2 Threskiornis 19 Oriental White Ibis 450 85 50 120 11 85 melanocephal 0 us 20 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus 263 23 80 55 45 60 21 Black Ibis Pseudibis papillosa 605 15 40 175 60 180 0 22 Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus 23 2 0 7 3 11
255
S.n Group/Comm Family/Species Total o on Name Name no.of 1 2 3 4 5 birds Nettapus 23 Cotton Teal coromandelianus 625 16 11 80 15 120 0 5 0 24 Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha 129 26 30 120 20 410 0 0 0 0 25 Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata 363 70 64 590 40 130 0 0 0 0 0 26 Northern Pintail Anas acuta 180 30 45 200 15 700 0 0 0 0 27 Garganey Anas querquedula 127 60 10 45 0 12 28 Common Teal Anas crecca 647 89 75 140 93 250 7 0 0 0 7 0 29 Lesser-whistling Dendrocygna javanica 105 35 20 50 0 0 Duck 30 Common Pochard Aythya ferina 628 60 55 108 60 345 White Amaurorni 31 41 20 0 0 6 15 breasted s Water Hen phoenicur us Pheasant-tailed Hydrophasia 32 Jacana nuschirurgus 26 3 6 0 10 7 33 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius 21 1 3 12 5 0 34 Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus 39 6 12 7 11 3 Yellow-wattled 35 Lapwing Vanellus malabaricus 49 3 15 10 14 7 36 Red-wattled Lapwing Vanellus indicus 39 7 0 0 11 21 37 Common Redshank Tringa totanus 14 0 0 0 11 3 38 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis 37 6 11 10 8 2 39 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 8 8 0 0 0 0 40 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola 25 0 0 0 0 25 41 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 21 15 6 42 Sanderling Calidris alba 7 2 0 1 3 1 43 Little Stint Calidris minuta 35 20 4 0 11 0 44 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea 29 5 11 8 0 5 45 Ruff Philomachus pugnax 240 540 300 650 11 800 0 0 Himantopus 46 Black-winged Stilt himantopus 368 70 180 40 0 78 47 Common Tern Sterna hirundo 38 0 15 10 5 8 48 Little Tern Sterna albifrons 9 2 0 0 0 7 49 River Tern Sterna aurantia 23 1 6 0 15 1 White- Amaurorni 50 breasted s 97 15 10 25 17 30 Waterhen phoenicur us 51 Purple Moorhen Porphyrio porphyrio 81 15 27 14 10 15 52 Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus 9 0 0 0 4 5 53 Common Coot Fulica atra 900 55 65 150 18 450 0
256
Appendix 7: Detailed Analysis of Air Modeling
A. Introduction
1. The major impact on the air quality during the operation stage will be due to plying of vehicles on the proposed corridor. The impact on air quality depends upon traffic volume, traffic fleet including fuel type and prevailing atmospheric conditions. An unstable atmospheric condition disperses pollutants more and results in to low pollutant concentrations while stable atmospheric conditions buildup the pollution level. To assess the likely impacts on the ambient air quality due to the proposed highway project, the prediction of the carbon monoxide (CO) and particulate matter (PM), Nitrogen Dioxide (NOx) and Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) concentrations have been carried out using line source dispersion modelling approach, based on Gaussian equation. CO is an indicator pollutant for vehicular pollution. So, prediction of CO concentration is representative of the impacts of air pollution due to traffic movement. The modeling for this project has been carried out using AERMOD-9, a steady-state plume model that incorporates air dispersion based on planetary boundary layer turbulence structure and scaling concepts, including treatment of both surface and elevated sources, and both simple and complex terrain, developed by the “The American Meteorological Society/Environmental Protection Agency Regulatory Model Improvement Committee (AERMIC)”.
2. It has been setup and run by using emission factors prevalent for Indian vehicles (ARAI, 2007) and hourly traffic volumes as predicted for the project. The study is conducted to predict 1-houly increment in CO, and 24 hourly increment in PM2.5, PM10, NOx and SO2 concentrations for the years 2020, 2025, 2030, 2035 and 2040.
B. Model descriptions
3. The AERMOD atmospheric dispersion modeling system is an integrated system that includes three modules: (a) A steady-state dispersion model designed for short-range (up to 50 kilometers) dispersion of air pollutant emissions from stationary industrial sources. (b) A meteorological data preprocessor (AERMET) that accepts surface meteorological data, upper air soundings, and optionally, data from on-site instrument towers. It then calculates atmospheric parameters needed by the dispersion model, such as atmospheric turbulence characteristics, mixing heights, friction velocity, Monin-Obukov length and surface heat flux. (c) A terrain preprocessor (AERMAP) whose main purpose is to provide a physical relationship between terrain features and the behavior of air pollution plumes. It generates location and height data for each receptor location. It also provides information that allows the dispersion model to simulate the effects of air flowing over hills or splitting to flow around hills. AERMOD also includes PRIME (Plume Rise Model Enhancements) [4] which is an algorithm for modeling the effects of downwash created by the pollution plume flowing over nearby buildings.
C. Source information
1. Traffic data
4. The fleet wise traffic volumes for the present study have been taken from the detailed feasibility report of the project. The annual average daily traffic (AADT) data is available for the proposed road through traffic survey. AERMOD model needs hourly average traffic volume. The total traffic hour volume is further categorized in to two-wheeler, four wheeler, Light commercial vehicles (LCVs), Bus and high commercial vehicles (HCVs), based on the traffic survey at different road stretched along the highway (Figure 1).
257
4W 28%
2W 41%
LCV 2%
Truck Bus 22% 3W 6% 1%
Figure 1: Traffic Fleet on the highway
5. The annual average daily motorized traffic data are given in table 1 along with future traffic growth.
Table 1: Annual average daily motorized traffic data Year 4W LCV Truck Bus 3W 2W 2020 3067 189 2435 657 70 4460 2025 4475 276 3553 958 102 6509 2030 6330 390 5026 1356 145 9208 2035 8740 538 6940 1872 200 12713 2040 11735 723 9318 2513 269 17069
2. Emission factors
6. Emission factor is one of the important input parameters in AERMOD model. In the present study, the emission factors specified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI, 2007) have been used for calculation of weighted emission factors. These emission factors have been expressed in terms of type of vehicles and type of fuel used (for petrol and diesel driven passenger cars).
7. The emission factor used in the present study for different vehicles type are given in table 2.
Table 2: Emission factors for different types of Vehicle (ARAI, 2007) Emission factors, g/km (ARAI, 2007) 2w 3w 4w lcv bus truck CO 1.04 1.25 1.28 1.56 8.03 6 NOx 0.31 0.6 0.32 1.46 9.01 9.3 PM 0.02 0.22 0.04 0.28 0.55 1.24
258
SO2 0.01 0.01 0.03 0.06 0.13 0.13
3. Meteorological data
8. The meteorological parameters such as wind speed, wind direction, temperature, rainfall, cloud cover, pressure, and humidity were used in model. Meteorological parameters observed during environmental monitoring carried out in the month of December 2019 were used for the model and is given below table 3.
Table 3: Meteorological Parameters used for modelling Hour Temperature Humidity WD Wind Pressure Precip. Cl (oC) (%) (o) Speed (Pa) (mm) (kmph) 1:00 22.1 97 22.5 23 29.54 0 0 2:00 22.8 94 67.5 7 29.57 0 0 3:00 23.5 96 67.5 8 29.6 0 0 4:00 23.7 92 90 21 29.63 0 0 5:00 23.9 94 22.5 6 29.63 0 0 6:00 24.8 95 22.5 7 29.6 0 0 7:00 25.3 91 45 8 29.57 0 0 8:00 26.7 92 22.5 11 29.54 0 0 9:00 27.1 83 22.5 19 29.52 0 0 10:00 27.6 81 22.5 12 29.49 0 0 11:00 28.5 74 45 17 29.52 0 0 12:00 29.4 70 67.5 22 29.54 0 0 13:00 29.2 73 67.5 11 29.57 0 0 14:00 29 74 67.5 7 29.6 0 0 15:00 28.2 76 45 23 29.63 0 0 16:00 27.7 79 22.5 10 29.66 0 0 17:00 26.3 86 22.5 9 29.63 0 0 18:00 25.4 88 45 18 29.57 0 0 19:00 24.1 89 67.5 27 29.57 0 0 20:00 23.2 91 45 16 29.54 0 0 21:00 23.3 93 22.5 15 29.52 0 0 22:00 23 94 45 28 29.52 0 0 23:00 22.4 95 67.5 20 29.52 0 0 24:00 22.2 95 22.5 11 29.52 0 0
4. Receptors
9. A set of link receptors were taken at various receptor locations within each section at a distance of 10 m, 20 m, 50 m, 100 m, 200 m and 500 m, both sides from center line of the carriageway to know the dispersion of pollutant from the road.
5. Background Concentration
259
10. The background pollutant concentrations were taken from environmental monitoring data. Air quality monitoring was carried out in the month of last quarter of 2019 at two locations along the alignment on two alternate days in a week. The following background pollutant concentrations were taken for model predictions:
Table 4: Average background concentration of pollutants along the alignment
Average Pollutant Background Unit concentration SO2 15.9 µg/m3 NOx 27 µg/m3 PM10 61.15 µg/m3 PM2.5 35.9 µg/m3 CO 1 mg/m3
D. Results
11. The model has been setup and run to predict hourly average CO, PM2.5, PM10, SO2 and NOx concentrations for year 2020, 2025, 2030, 2035 and 2040 using forecasted traffic data on proposed highway. The predicted hourly average concentration of CO and 24 hourly average concentration of PM2.5, PM10, SO2 and NOx during peak traffic are shown in tables 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 for proposed highway project. The graphical representation of average pollutant concentrations on both side of the road sections shown in figures 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 at different locations.
260
Table 5: CO predicted concentrations (ppm) along the proposed road CO Concentration (mg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500
2020 1.04 1.10 1.21 1.46 2.35 3.74 1.11 1.06 1.02 1.00 1.00 1.00 2025 1.30 1.72 2.50 4.25 10.44 20.18 1.74 1.43 1.12 1.02 1.00 1.00 2030 1.62 2.49 4.11 7.74 20.58 40.77 2.54 1.89 1.25 1.05 1.00 1.00 2035 2.04 3.51 6.26 12.38 34.04 68.11 3.60 2.50 1.42 1.08 1.00 1.00 2040 2.57 4.79 8.92 18.14 50.76 102.07 4.92 3.27 1.63 1.12 1.01 1.00
Table 6: PM2.5 predicted concentrations (µg/m3) along the proposed road PM2.5 Concentration (µg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year m. (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500 2020 35.90 35.91 35.92 35.95 36.05 36.22 35.91 35.90 35.90 35.90 35.90 35.90 2025 35.93 35.97 36.06 36.27 36.96 38.10 35.94 35.92 35.91 35.90 35.90 35.90 2030 35.96 36.05 36.24 36.67 38.10 40.46 35.98 35.95 35.91 35.90 35.90 35.90 2035 36.00 36.16 36.47 37.20 36.61 43.59 36.04 35.98 35.92 35.90 35.90 35.90 2040 36.05 36.29 36.76 37.85 41.49 47.48 36.11 36.02 35.93 35.91 35.90 35.90
Table 7: PM10 predicted concentrations (µg/m3) along the proposed road PM10 Concentration (µg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year m. (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500 2020 61.15 61.16 61.17 61.20 61.30 61.47 61.02 61.15 61.15 61.15 61.15 61.15 2025 61.18 61.22 61.31 61.52 62.21 63.35 61.19 61.17 61.16 61.15 61.15 61.15 2030 61.21 61.30 61.49 61.62 63.35 65.71 61.23 61.20 61.16 61.15 61.15 61.15 2035 61.25 61.41 61.72 62.45 64.86 68.84 61.29 61.23 61.17 61.15 61.15 61.15 2040 61.30 61.54 62.01 63.10 66.74 72.73 61.36 61.27 61.78 61.16 61.15 61.15
Table 8: NOx predicted concentrations (µg/m3) along the proposed road NOx Concentration (µg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500 2020 27.05 27.11 27.23 27.51 28.47 29.99 27.12 27.07 27.02 27.00 27.00 27.00 2025 27.32 27.78 28.63 30.53 37.25 47.82 27.81 27.47 27.13 27.02 27.00 27.00 2030 27.67 28.62 30.38 34.31 48.23 70.13 28.67 27.97 27.27 27.05 27.00 27.00 2035 28.13 29.73 32.70 39.24 62.84 99.79 29.82 28.63 27.46 27.09 27.00 27.00 2040 28.70 31.11 35.58 45.59 80.97 136.62 31.25 29.46 27.69 27.13 27.01 27.00
261
Table 9: SO2 predicted concentrations (µg/m3) along the proposed road* SO2 Concentration (µg/m3) Distance from the centre line of the road, Distance from the centre line of the road, m. Year m. (Left side) (Right side) -500 -200 -100 -50 -20 -10 10 20 50 100 200 500 2020 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.01 16.02 16.05 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 2040 16.02 16.06 16.13 16.29 16.84 17.74 16.03 16.02 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 *There is very minor change in SO2 concentration from year 2020 to 2040
262
CO Concentration (mg/m3) 110.00
90.00
70.00
2020 2025 50.00 2030 2035
30.00 2040
10.00
-500 -400 -300 -200 -100 0 100 200 300 400 500 -10.00
Figure 2: CO distribution from Centre line of the road
NOx Concentration (µg/m3)
135.00
115.00
95.00 2020 2025 75.00 2030 2035 2040 55.00
35.00
15.00 -500 -400 -300 -200 -100 0 100 200 300 400 500
Figure 3: NOx distribution from Centre line of the road
263
PM2.5 Concentration (µg/m3) 49.00
47.00
45.00
2020 43.00 2025 2030 41.00 2035 2040 39.00
37.00
35.00 -500 -400 -300 -200 -100 0 100 200 300 400 500
Figure 4: PM2.5 distribution from Centre line of the road
PM10 Concentration (µg/m3) 74.00
72.00
70.00
2020 68.00 2025 2030 66.00 2035 2040
64.00
62.00
60.00 -600 -400 -200 0 200 400 600
Figure 5: PM10 distribution from Centre line of the road
264
SO2 Concentration (µg/m3) 18.00
17.80
17.60
17.40
17.20
17.00 2020 16.80 2040
16.60
16.40
16.20
16.00
15.80 -500 -400 -300 -200 -100 0 100 200 300 400 500
Figure 6: SO2 distribution from Centre line of the road
12. In addition, the spatial distribution of hourly average predicted CO, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations have been plotted in figures 7,8, 9, 10 and 11 respectively which shows that pollutant concentrations is decreasing when goes away from the kerb side.
265
Figure 7: Spatial Distribution of CO (2020-2040)
Spatial Distribution of CO for year 2020
Spatial Distribution of CO for year 2025
266
Spatial Distribution of CO for year 2030
Spatial Distribution of CO for year 2035
Spatial Distribution of CO for year 2040
267
Figure 8: Spatial Distribution of PM2.5 (2020-2040)
Spatial Distribution of PM2.5 for year 2020
Spatial Distribution of PM2.5 for year 2025
268
Spatial Distribution of PM2.5 for year 2030
Spatial Distribution of PM2.5 for year 2035
Spatial Distribution of PM2.5 for year 2040
Figure 9: Spatial Distribution of PM10 (2020-2040)
269
Spatial Distribution of PM10 for year 2020
Spatial Distribution of PM10 for year 2025
Spatial Distribution of PM10 for year 2030
270
Spatial Distribution of PM10 for year 2035
Spatial Distribution of PM10 for year 2040
Figure 10: Spatial Distribution of NOx (2020-2040)
Spatial Distribution of NOx for year 2020
271
Spatial Distribution of NOx for year 2025
Spatial Distribution of NOx for year 2030
Spatial Distribution of NOx for year 2035
272
Spatial Distribution of NOx for year 2040
Figure 11: Spatial Distribution of SO2 (2020-2040)
Spatial Distribution of SO2 for year 2020
273
Spatial Distribution of SO2 for year 2040
274
Appendix 8: Guidelines For Plant Management
A. Purpose • To ensure that statutory / regulatory requirements are complied with • To ensure that safeguard measures are taken to avoid / mitigate / minimize environmental impacts
B. Site selection criteria
1. Following criteria are to be met wherever possible for crusher and HMP: • 500 m away from settlement, school, hospital on downwind directions • 1 km from any archaeological site • 1 km from ecologically sensitive areas i.e. forest, national park, sanctuary etc. • 500 m from rivers, streams and lakes • 500 m from ponds • 200 m from State and National Highway boundary • away from agricultural land • preference to barren land
2. Concrete batching plant should be located at least 500 m from the settlement, preferably on leeward side, whenever possible.
3. The format for submission of details to the Engineer during finalisation of plant site is given as follows (Site identification for Plants).
C. Statutory Requirements • Obtaining Consent-for-Establishment (CFE) under Air and Water Acts from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) before start of installation • Obtaining Consent-for-Operation (CFO) under Air and Water Acts from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) before start of commissioning and trial run • Complying with the terms and conditions laid down in the CFE and CFO, which generally include providing metallic road inside plant campus for movement of vehicles, plantation, periodic (monthly) pollution monitoring i.e. ambient air, noise and stack emission • The suspended particulate matter contribution value at a distance of 40 m from a controlled isolated as well as from a unit located in a cluster should be less than 600 g/m3 or as shall be prescribed by SPCB. • Obtain certificates from manufacturer for Type Approval and Conformity of Production for Diesel Generator (DG) set/s. • For DG sets of capacity up to 1000 kVA, the noise level at 1 m from the enclosure surface shall not exceed 75 dB (A).
D. Pollution control measures • Dust control measures in stone crusher plant i.e. water sprinkling at primary crusher and secondary crusher, conveyor & return belts, covered conveyor system, chute at outfall of aggregates, cyclone separator, wind braking wall etc. • For HMP, ensure adequate stack height as stipulated in CFE, install emission control devices such as bag house filters, cyclone separators, water scrubbers etc., as attached with the plant by the manufacturer or stipulated in CFE. • Prefer bulk bitumen storage with mechanized handling facilities that storage in drums with manual operation at HMP to prevent / minimize bitumen spillage and thereby contaminating soil and ground water.
275
• Impervious platform for storage of bituminous and other liquid hazardous chemical • Bag house filter / multi-cone cyclone for emission control. For bag house, cartridge filters reported to be more efficient than fabric filters • Pollution control measures for Diesel Generator (DG) set i.e. stack height, acoustic enclosure etc. • Greenbelt along the periphery of plant site.
SITE IDENTIFICATION FOR PLANTS
Construction Stage Report: One Time Date: Installed Capacity (tph): Location of Plant (Ch. & offset):
Sl. Item / Requirement Details as per Actual No. 1 Predominant wind direction 2 Size and area of the proposed plant site (m xm & Sq.m) 3 Present land use (barren or fallow land having no prominent vegetation should be preferred) 4 No dwelling units within 500 m from the plant boundary in downwind direction 5 Distance of nearest boundary of State Highways and National Highways (should be at least 200 m from the plant boundary)
6 Sensitive areas such as religious places, schools/educational institutions, reserved / protected forest, sanctuary etc. within 1 km (should be nil) 7 River/Stream/Lake within 500 m and ponds within 500 m 8 No other trees of girth>0.3m present and will be affected (no tree should be affected) 9 Width of Haul road (m) 10 Total Length of Haul Road (km) 11 Length of non-metal Haul Road (km) (should be as minimum as possible)
Documents to be attached: Site plan showing wind direction, haul road and other environmental features. Certified that the furnished information is correct and all relevant information as required is attached.
Contractor:
276
Appendix 9: Guidelines for Camp Site Management
A. Purpose
1. Campsite of a contractor represents the single potentially most polluting location during implementation of any road project. Air pollution may be caused by emissions from Crushers, Hot-Mix, and Concrete Batching Plants. Water pollution may be caused by discharge of sediment, oil & grease, and organics laden run-off from these plants and their ancillary facilities as well as workshops, residential quarters for the labor. Land may be polluted due to indiscriminate disposal of domestic waste or (accidental) release of hazardous solids from storage areas.
2. While the installation and operation of Crushers and Hot-Mix Plants are regulated by the respective Pollution Control Boards, the other sources described above usually do not appear to be causes of significant concern. Items to be considered for labor camps are mentioned briefly in Clause 105.2 (as part of 105: Scope of Work) of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) publication: Specifications for Road and Bridge Works. Some specific requirements for labor accommodation and facilities are to be met by the Contractor in line with Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996. Currently, there is no one-point guidance regarding the environmental management aspects of the Contractor’s campsite. This guideline on Campsites is designed to fill this gap.
B. Scope
3. This guideline covers the Contractors’ camp sites – whether used by in-house crew or by any sub-contractors’ crew. It covers siting, operation, maintenance, repair and dismantling procedures for facilities for labor employed on project (and ancillary) activities as well as equipment and vehicles. It does not include siting, operation, maintenance, repair and dismantling of major plants – Hot-mix Plant, Concrete Batching Plant, Crusher or Wet Mix Macadam Plant.
1. Siting, Establishing, Operation and Closure of Construction Camp
a. Potential Environmental Impacts
4. Construction camps require large areas for siting facilities like major plants, storage areas for material, residential accommodation for construction labor and supervisors, and offices. Removal of topsoil and vegetation from the land to be utilized for camps is the first direct impact of any such establishment. In addition, local drainage may be impaired if proper drainage is not effected by grading. Other impacts may include damage to ecologically important flora and fauna, if campsites are located close to such areas. Water pollution because of discharge of sediment, fuel and chemicals is also a possibility. Pollution of land due to indiscriminate disposal of construction wastes including scarified pavement, concrete and even substantial quantities of domestic wastes from residential areas can also be potentially disastrous, especially if the site is reverted to its original use after the project (mostly agriculture).
b. Mitigation Measures
2. Siting of Construction Camps
5. The following guidelines will assist the Contractor to avoid any environmental issues while siting construction camps:
277
• Maintain a distance of at least 1 km from boundaries of designated Reserved Forests, Sanctuary or National Park area for locating any temporary or permanent camps. • Maintain 500m from river, stream and lake and from ponds • Maintain 200 m from the boundary of state and national highways • Locate facilities in areas not affected by flooding and clear of any natural or storm water courses. • Locate campsites in the (most prevalent) downwind direction of nearest village(s). The boundary of the campsite should be at least 500m from the nearest habitation so that the incoming labor does not stress the existing local civic facilities. • The ground should have gentle slope to allow free drainage of the site. • Recorded consultations should be held with residents of the nearest settlement and/or their representatives to understand and incorporate where possible, what they would like to see within their locality.
3. Establishment, Operation, and Closure of Camps
• The facilities within the camp site should be laid out so that the separation distances suggested in other guidelines are maintained. A notional lay-out of the facilities except the major plants is included in this guideline. • Topsoil from the area of the plant shall be stored separately for the duration of the operation of the camp and protected from being washed away, unless agreed otherwise in writing with the owner. If stored, it will be returned on to its original location at the time of closure of the site. • The Contractor shall prepare, make widely available (especially to staff responsible for water and material management), and implement a Storm water Management Plan (SWMP) for (all) the site(s) following approval of the same by the Engineer. . • The Contractor shall prepare an Emergency and Spill Response Plan as per the requirements of Appendix 1 to Clause 501 of Specifications for Road and Bridge Works to cover the spillage of bitumen and/or chemicals like retarders, curing compounds, etc. • The Contractor shall prepare a Waste Management Plan describing the types and quantities that are likely to be generated from within the camp site, with the period and duration during the construction schedule; methods to be adopted to minimize these; methods of removal, treatment and (on-site or off-site) disposal for each type; as well as location of final disposal site, if any. • The Contractor shall provide safe ingress and egress for vehicles from the site and public roads and shall not impact existing through traffic. • Water tankers with sprayers must be available at the camp site at all times to prevent dust generation. • In case of stockpiles of stored material rising higher than wind-breaking perimeter fencing provided, sprinklers shall be available on site to prevent dusting from the piles during windy days. • On completion of works, the Contractor shall restore the site to the condition it was in before the establishment of the campsite, unless agreed otherwise in writing with the owner(s) of the site(s). If such a written agreement has been made, the Contractor shall hand over the site to the owner(s) in accordance with such an agreement. • Construction waste disposal should be disposed only at landfill facilities which are selected, designed, constructed and operated to ensure environmentally safe disposal, and these facilities have to be approved by the regulators.
278
4. Equipment and Vehicle-related issues
a. Potential Environmental Impacts
6. The maintenance and repair of equipment and vehicles in Contractor’s camp are activities that can have significant adverse impacts if not carried out properly. The concern mainly arises from discharge of wash water contaminated with oil and grease, whether from washing of vehicles or degreasing of equipment and vehicle parts. Vehicle washing, especially dirt from tires, also gives rise to sediment-laden run-off. No such discharges should be directly allowed into surface water bodies since they can be harmful to aquatic species.
b. Mitigation Measures
i. Vehicles
• All vehicles used by the Contractor must have copies of currently valid Pollution Under Control Certificates displayed as per the requirement of the Motor Vehicles Department for the duration of the Contract. • All vehicles and equipment will be fitted with silencers and/or mufflers which will be serviced regularly to maintain them in good working condition and conforming to the standard of 75dB (A) at 1m from surface of enclosure.
ii. Workshop and Maintenance areas
• These areas must have impervious flooring to prevent seepage of any leaked oil & grease into the ground. The area should be covered with a roof to prevent the entry of rainwater. • The flooring shall be sloped to from both directions to one corner where an oil- and-grease trap with sufficient capacity should be installed. All discharges from the workshop area must pass through the trap to remove the floating oil and grease before entering the drainage system of the site. The trap should be designed to provide a hydraulic residence time of about 20 minutes for the peak hourly discharge anticipated from the area (as per following figure). • Alternatively, degreasing can also be carried out using mechanical spray type degreaser, with complete recycle using an enclosure with nozzles and two sieves, coarse above and fine below, may be used as shown in the adjacent photograph. This arrangement will require some initial investment and running cost for the pump, but the payback period, in terms of the use of diesel, under Indian conditions, has been reported to be less than 1 year.
279
Slope of the Workshop area floor
O&G To drainage system for the site
Figure 1: Workshop Area Pollution Control
• All the waste oil collected, from skimming of the oil trap as well as from the drip pans, or the mechanical degreaser shall be stored in accordance with the Environment Protection (Storage and Disposal of Hazardous Wastes) Rules, 1989. For this purpose, metallic drums should be used. These should be stored separately in sheds, preferably bunded. The advantage of this arrangement is that it allows for accurate accounting in case the waste material is sold to oil waste recyclers or other users like brick-kiln owners who can burn such inferior fuel.
280
• A separate vehicle washing ramp shall be constructed adjacent to the workshop for washing vehicles, including truck mounted concrete mixers, if any, after each day’s construction is over, or as required. This ramp should have an impervious bottom and it should be sloped so that it drains into a separate chamber to remove the sediment from the wash water before discharge. The chamber should allow for a hydraulic residence time of about 10 minutes for discharge associated with the washing of each truck. Following figure 2 shows an outline sketch for a sedimentation chamber.
Figure 2: Sedimentation Chamber for vehicle washing ramp discharge
281
5. Facilities for Labour
a. Potential Environmental Impacts
7. The sudden arrival and relatively longer duration of stay of construction crew can cause substantial strain on the existing infrastructure facilities like water supply, sanitation and medical care, especially in rural areas. Pollution from domestic wastes can affect local sources of water supply and may harm the crew themselves as well as local residents. Improper sanitation and inadequate health care also potential bottlenecks that the Contractor can eliminate with relatively little effort.
b. Mitigation Measures
8. It should be emphasized that the Indian Law requires that the Contractor provide several facilities to for the workers as per Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996. Some of the provisions described herein are more stringent to act as benchmark for improved environmental performance of road projects: • The contractor shall provide free-of-charge temporary accommodation to all the labour employed for the project. The accommodation includes separate cooking place, bathing, washing and lavatory facilities. At least, one toilet will be provided for every 35 people and one urinal will be provided for every 20 persons. More toilets and/or urinals may have to be provided if the Engineer decides that these numbers are insufficient. In case female labourers are employed, separate toilet and urinals will be provided in locations clearly marked “Ladies Toilets” in a language understood by most labourers. • The contractor shall ensure the supply of wholesome water for all the labour, including those employed by any other agency working for the contractor. These locations will be marked “Drinking Water” in the language most commonly understood among the labour. In hot season, the contractor shall make efforts to ensure supply of cool water. No water point shall be located within 15 m of any washing place, urinal, or latrine. • The contractor shall ensure that adequate cooking fuel, preferably kerosene or LPG, is available on-site. The contractor will ensure that wood/ coal are not used as fuel on the site. Workers need to be made aware of this restriction. In cases where more than 250 labours are employed, canteen facility should be provided by the Contractor. • A crèche must be provided in each campsite where more than 50 female labourers are employed, whether directly or indirectly, for the project or its ancillary activities. • Contractor must provide adequate facilities for first-aid treatment at the campsite. A doctor / ambulance should be available on call for the duration of project implementation. • The contractor shall obtain the approval of the Engineer for these facilities within 30 days of mobilization.
282
TYPICAL DRAWING OF WORKERS’ CAMP SANITARY FACILITY
283
Layout of a Construction camp
Family Quarter Rooms Gents Toilet s Vehicle Washing for Was Area / Ramp Women hing area
Ladi es Toil et
Workshop PLANTS
(Concre
te Office Canteen
Block / Mess Rooms Batchin for Men
g, etc.)
and Cement and MATERI Spares Store
AL Security & Weigh
Bridge Existing Slope
Gate
LEGEND: Septic Tank + Soak Pit Water Source Oil & Grease Separator
284
Appendix 10: Guidelines for Waste (Debris) and Spoil Disposal and Management
A Waste disposal and management plan will be prepared by the contractor before start of construction works and submitted to CKICP, PIU-ADB and the Construction Supervision Consultant for their review and approval. The management plan will follow the guidelines as given below: (i) The debris disposal site should be identified which are preferably barren or low- lying areas away from settlements. (ii) Contractor to prepare spoil disposal plan which identifies spoil disposal sites including volume of spoils that can be accommodated by each site, and agreed restoration measures (e.g. revegetation, compaction, provision of drainage, etc.) and timeline (iii) Prior concurrence will be taken from concerned Government Authorities or land owner for selected disposal sites and restoration measures (iv) Due care should be taken during site clearance and disposal of debris so that public/ private properties are not damaged or affected, no traffic are interrupted. (v) All efforts should be made to use debris in road construction or any other public utilities to minimize spoils and debris (vi) If immediate disposal is not possible, the debris and spoils should be stored at site ensuring that existing water bodies and drains within or adjacent to the site are kept safe and free and no blocking of drains occurs until ready to be transported to final spoils disposal site (vii) All dust prone material should be transported in a covered truck. (viii) All liquid waste like oils and paint waste should be stored at identified locations and preferably on a cemented floor. Provision of spill collection pit will be made in the floor to collect the spilled oil or paint. These should be sold off to authorized recyclers. (ix) All domestic waste generated at construction camp preferably be composted in portable mechanized composter. The composted material will be used as manure. In case composting is not feasible, the material will either be disposed off though municipal waste disposal system or disposed of through land burial. The dump site must be covered up with at least six inch thick layer of soil. (x) Only appropriately design and compliant landfills will be used for disposing waste (xi) All efforts should be made that no chemical/ oily waste spill over to ground or water bodies. (xii) All precautions should be followed for emergency preparedness and occupational health & safety during construction and handling wastes and spoils. (xiii) Provision of fire extinguishers will be made at the storage area (xiv) Adequate traffic control signals and barriers should be used in case traffic is to be diverted during debris disposal. All efforts should be made to ensure avoidance of traffic jam, which otherwise results in air pollution, noise pollution and inconveniences to the road users and adjacent communities. (xv) Hazardous waste and chemicals should be stored in a dedicated storage area that has: 1) weather protection, 2) solid impermeable surface and drainage to treatment system, 3) security fence/lock, 4) primary and secondary containment with 110% volume for liquids. (xvi) Domestic waste shall only be disposed of at the approved, appropriately designed, compliant waste management facility (landfill). Land burial of waste shall not be permitted.
Records: The following records will be maintained • Generation and disposal quantity with location of disposal • Recyclables waste generation and disposal
285
• Domestic waste disposal locations details
Reporting: The waste generation and disposal details will form part of quarterly report to CKICP, PIU- ADB
Responsibility: Prime Responsibility: Contractor will be responsible for waste management and reporting Supervisory Responsibility: Construction Supervision Consultant (CSC) will check the contractor’s adherence to the above guidelines
286
Appendix 11: Guidelines for Borrow Area Management
A. Purpose
1. Borrow areas are generally required to provide material for road construction sites, can have significant adverse environmental effects, especially on ecologically sensitive areas. Borrow areas can become environmental hotspots and can significantly affect the visual appearance of an area. Special mitigation and management measures are often required to avoid or minimise the environmental and social impacts of borrow areas.
B. Scope
2. These guidelines for borrow areas cover: • statutory approvals • environmental and social impacts of borrow areas • selection of borrow areas • operation of borrow areas • rehabilitation of borrow areas
3. The guidelines seek to ensure that Contractors: • comply with the regulatory requirements in force at the time • reasonably manage any impacts • reinstate and rehabilitate the land appropriately • consult with affected communities
C. Impacts
4. Some of the potential impacts of borrow areas are: • trucks transporting materials to the site causing air pollution, and noise and vibrations • ponds of stagnant water forming in excavated areas giving rise to the breeding of mosquitoes and the spreading of malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases • natural beauty of the landscape being affected by excavations and the removal of vegetation • natural drainage systems in the area being affected by excavations • agriculture land and productive soils being lost, especially in paddy field areas
5. Borrow areas are not generally specified in Contract documents but rather it is generally the responsibility of Contractors to identify borrow areas and obtain the necessary consent from land owner and approval from SC.
6. In IRC: 10 and Clause 305.2.2.2 of MoRTH Specification, exclusive guideline has been given for borrow areas located alongside the road and only some of the requirements have been indicated for borrow areas located outside the road land. Following guideline is proposed to supplement the existing stipulation in IRC:10 and Clause 305.2.2.2 of MoRTH Specification for Roads and Bridge Works:
D. Location • Identify areas having present land use as barren land, riverside land. Otherwise, un-irrigated agriculture land or land without vegetation and tree cover; • Prefer borrow areas on bed of irrigation water storage tank; • Prefer areas of highland with respect to surroundings; • Avoid locating borrow area close to any road (maintain atleast 30 m distance from ROW and 10 m from toe of embankment, whichever is higher);
287
• Should be at least 1.5 km away from inhabited areas; • Maintain a distance of about 1.5km from ecologically sensitive area i.e. Reserve Forest, Protected Forest, Sanctuary, wetland etc.; • Maintain a distance of about 1.5 km from school, hospital and any archaeological sites; • Having adequate approach road with minimum length of earthen road; • Ensure that unsuitable soft rock is not prominent within the proposed depth of excavation which will render rehabilitation difficult; • Depth of excavation should be decided based on natural ground level of the land and the surroundings, and rehabilitation plan. In case higher depth of excavation is agreed with backfilling by unsuitable excavated soil (from roadway), then filling should be adequately compacted except topsoil which is to be spread on topmost layer (for at least 20cm thick).
E. Operation
• Controlled operation as per agreed / approved plan; • Preservation of topsoil at designated areas e.g. corners of the area etc.; • Maintain necessary buffer zone in all directions and go for vertical cut within this area. Final cut slope should be maintained within the buffer zone; • Step-wise excavation if borrow area is located on inclined area having more than 2% slope; • Restricting excavation up to 2m for each stages of operation if allowed depth is more; • Avoid cutting of any tree of girth size > 30cm4. if any tree cutting is inevitable, prior permission (written) from the competent authority should be taken and compensatory plantation has to be raised.
F. Rehabilitation
• Prior approval of Rehabilitation Plan considering terrain, land use and local need; • Restricting operation as agreed by landowner and approved by the Engineer; • Rehabilitation within agreed timeframe and before taking over; • Integrate debris disposal and borrow area redevelopment.
G. Management Procedure
7. The important aspects of this procedure are: • The first and foremost thing is to have tentative estimate of borrow material requirement chainage-wise. For this, Bill of Quantities (BOQ) quantity for earth work, which is given as total quantity for the entire package/milestone, has to be distributed chainage-wise. The requirement of borrow material chainage- wise then has to be estimated based on the suitability of roadway excavation material for reuse and BOQ. • Contractor to site borrow areas fulfilling environmental requirements and obtaining one time approval of the Engineer both on quality as well as environmental consideration thereby integrating environmental safeguard measures into day-to-day activities; • Contractor to submit environmental information in prescribed format for obtaining Engineer’s approval, as given in the following format (Borrow Area Identification). The format has been so designed that it stipulates the requirements as well as what is actual for each borrow areas and could be
4 Plant having girth size more than 30cm is considered as tree.
288
easily understood by any person, whoever in-charge of identifying borrow areas; • Contractor to submit Borrow Area Layout Plan as attachment to the format showing the land use of the proposed and surrounding area along with the presence of other environmental features such as water bodies, forests, settlement, temple and any sensitive receptor i.e. health and educational institution, roads etc. within a radius of 1.5km area from the boundary of the borrow area; • Contractor to prepare and submit Block Contour Map of each borrow area (especially which are located close to road and on undulating terrain) for deciding on operation and redevelopment plan; • Contractor to prepare Operation Plan and submit as attachment to the format including cross sections on both directions (x,y) mentioning natural ground level, depth of topsoil (if any), total depth of excavation, cut side slope and bed slope; • Contractor to prepare Rehabilitation/ Restoration and submit as attachment to the format include cross sections on both directions (x,y) mentioning natural ground level, excavated profile, finished profile after rehabilitation, volume of spoils that can be accommodated etc.; • Contractor to maintain Borrow Material Register; • Periodic joint inspections of each borrow area until rehabilitation is complete as agreed and approved. • The checklist for periodic inspection is given in this appendix.
289
Borrow Areas Identification
Construction Stage Report: One Time Date: Location of Borrow Area (Ch. & Offset): Revenue Survey No.:
Sl. Item / Requirement Details as per Actual (to No. be filled by Contractor & checked by Engineer) 1 Date of Borrow Area planned to be operational 2 Current Land use (preference to barren land, riverside land, otherwise, un-irrigated agriculture land or land without tree cover) 3 Size (Sq.m) and area (m x m) of Borrow Area 4 Proposed maximum depth of pit in m (IRC 10 & Clause 305.2.2 of MoRTH Spec.) 5 Details of riverside borrow area (inner edge should not be less than 10m from the toe of the bank and bottom of pit should not cut the imaginary line of 1:4 from embankment top) 6 Borrow area in cultivable land (should be avoided or restricted to total depth of 45cm including preservation of 15cm topsoil) 7 Quantity Available (Cum) 8 Quantity of top soil to be removed (Sq.m & depth in cm) 9 Details of preservation (storage) and management (re-use / re-laid) of top soil 10 Width of Haul road (m) 11 Total Length of Haul Road (km) 12 Length of Non-metal Haul Road (should be as minimum as possible) 13 No of settlements within 200 m of Non-metal Haul Road (should be as minimum as possible) 14 Distance from settlement (should be minimum 1500 m) 15 Should be away from water bodies. Give details of water bodies within 250 m. 16 Details of water sources for dust suppression 17 Quantity of water required for dust suppression i.e. sprinkling at borrow area and on haul road (Cum) 18 Availability of water required for dust suppression (Cum) 19 Details of ecologically sensitive area i.e. Reserved Forest, Protected Forest, Sanctuary etc. within 1500m (should be nil) 20 Details of settlements/residential areas, school, hospital and any archaeological sites within 1500m (should be nil) 21 Distance from nearby road embankment, fence line / boundary (should be minimum 30m from ROW and 10m from toe of embankment, whichever is higher) 22 No of Trees with girth more than 0.3 m (No tree should be affected)
Documents to be attached:
290
1) Site plan and layout plan of borrow area; 2) Proposed borrow area operation and redevelopment plan; 3) Written consent from competent authority for use of water for dust suppression 4) Written consent of landowner on agreed operation and redevelopment plan
Certified that the furnished information is correct and all relevant information as required is attached
Contractor’s Representative:
291
Checklist For Monitoring Borrow Area Operation & Management Attributes Requirements Access road • Only approved access road shall be used Top soil • Top soil, if any, shall be stripped and stored at corners of the area preservation before start of excavation for material collection; • Top soil should be re-used / re-laid as per agreed plan Depth of excavation • For cultivable (agriculture) land, total depth of excavation should be limited to 45 cm including top 15 cm for top soil preservation; • For riverside borrow area, the depth of excavation shall be so regulated that the inner edge of any borrow pit should not be less than 10m from the toe of the bank and bottom of pit should not cut the imaginary line of 1:4 from embankment top; • If borrow area is located within 1500 m of towns or villages, they should not exceed 30 cm in depth and should be properly drained; • Borrow areas close to ROW should be rectangular in shape with one side parallel to center line of the road and depth should be so regulated that it should not cut an imaginary line having slope of 1 in 4 projected from the edge of the final section of the embankment. Damage to • Movement of man & machinery should be regulated to avoid damage surrounding land to surrounding land. Drainage control • Borrow areas must have adequate drainage provisions to prevent soil erosion • The surface drainage in and around the area should be connected to the natural drainage; • No water stagnation shall occur. Dust suppression • Water should be sprayed on kutcha (earthen) haul road twice in a day or as may be required to avoid dust generation during transportation of material; • Depending on moisture content, 0.5 to 1.5% water may be added to excavated soil before loading during dry weather to avoid fugitive dust emission. Covering material • Material transport vehicle shall be provided with tarpaulin cover transport vehicle Personal Protective • Workers should be provided with helmet, gumboot and air mask and Equipment their use should be strictly enforced. Redevelopment • The area should be rehabilitated within agreed timeframe on completion of material collection as per agreed rehabilitation plan.
292
Appendix 12: Guidelines for Quarry Area Management
A. Purpose
1. Quarries generally required to provide material for road construction sites, can have significant adverse environmental effects, especially on ecologically sensitive areas. Quarries can become environmental hotspots and can significantly affect the visual appearance of an area. Special mitigation and management measures are often required to avoid or minimise the environmental and social impacts of quarries.
B. Scope
2. These guidelines for quarries cover: • statutory approvals • environmental and social impacts of quarries • selection of quarries • operation of quarries • rehabilitation of quarries
3. The guidelines seek to ensure that Contractors5: • comply with the regulatory requirements in force at the time • reasonably manage any impacts • reinstate and rehabilitate the land appropriately • consult with affected communities C. Impacts
4. Some of the potential impacts of quarries are: • rock blasting causing air pollution, and noise and vibrations • trucks transporting materials to the site causing air pollution, and noise and vibrations • ponds of stagnant water forming in excavated areas giving rise to the breeding of mosquitoes and the spreading of malaria and other mosquito- borne diseases • natural beauty of the landscape being affected by excavations and the removal of vegetation • natural drainage systems in the area being affected by excavations
5. The procedure for identification and finalization of quarry site/s shall be as given below: • Estimating the quantity of quarry material to be collected from each quarry area • Only licensed quarry will be used • New quarry will be at least 1.5 km away from the settlement, forest and other ecologically sensitive areas • Away from water body • Contractor shall identify alternative quarry sites along the whole corridor based on required quantity and environmental consideration as given in the following prescribed format of Quarry source identification. • Contractor shall submit to the Engineer the detailed information / documents as prescribed in the format;
5 The EMP stipulations shall be applicable even if contractor uses an existing licensed quarry. In case the contractor uses the existing licensed quarry, a copy of the quarry license and lease / sub-lease agreement shall be submitted to the Project Proponent. The Contractor shall submit a plan delineating steps to comply with requirements stipulated in this Appendix and elsewhere in the EMP for quarrying activities.
293
• Engineer shall undertake site inspection of alternate quarry sites and convey to Contractor on accepting a particular quarry site on environmental consideration; • Contractor shall then take apply and obtain Quarry Lease Deed / License from the Government of Tamil Nadu Department of Mines and Geology and Mining and provide copy of the same to the Engineer prior to operation; • Contractor shall estimate water requirement for dust suppression at quarry sites during operation and for water spraying on kutcha (non-metal) haul road and ensure availability water by identifying sources and obtaining necessary permission; • Contractor shall prepare quarry sites operation and redevelopment plan considering surrounding land uses, local needs and agreement with the landowner; • Only licensed blaster i.e. short-firer certificate holder will be responsible for quarry blasting • Permits for transportation, storage and use of explosive, as will be required, shall be obtained from the Controller of Explosive; • Whenever so advised by the Engineer, controlled blasting e.g. using less charge, restricting depth and dia or drill holes, cut-off blasting etc., shall be undertaken. • Quarry operation will be undertaken in stages with adequate benching
6. The procedure for environmentally sound operation and management of quarry sites is given below: • Estimating the quantity of quarry material to be collected from each quarry area; • Demarcating the entire quarry area by fencing and putting red-flag poles; • Providing adequate metallic access road; • Preserving topsoil from the quarry compound, if any, by stripping and stacking aside separately at corners; • Carrying out blasting as per agreed operational plan complying with the requirements of MoRTH Specification (Clause 302 & 303) and Ministry of Environment & Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) as given below; • Maintaining a Quarry Material Collection Register on daily material collection for each of the quarry area, which shall be produced to Engineer’s representative as and when requested; • Redeveloping the area within 2 months (or as will be agreed upon) of completion of quarry material collection;
D. Use of Explosive for Blasting
1. General
7. Blasting shall be carried out in a manner that completes the excavation to the lines indicated in drawings, with the least disturbance to adjacent material. It shall be done only with the written permission of the Engineer. All the statutory laws, regulations, rules, etc., pertaining to the acquisition, transport, storage, handling and use of explosives shall be strictly followed.
8. The Contractor may adopt any method or methods of blasting consistent with the safety and job requirements. Prior to starting any phase of the operation the Contractor shall provide information describing pertinent blasting procedures, dimension and notes.
9. The magazine for the storage of explosives shall be built as per national / international standards and located at the approved site. No unauthorized person shall be
294
admitted into the magazine which when not in use shall be kept securely locked. No matches or inflammable material shall be allowed in the magazine. The magazine shall have an effective lightning conductor. The following shall be displayed in the lobby of the magazine: • A copy of the relevant rules regarding safe storage in English, Portuguese and in the language with which the workers concerned are familiar. • A statement of up-to-date stock in the magazine. • A certificate showing the last date of testing of the lightning conductor. • A notice that smoking is strictly prohibited.
10. All explosives shall be stored in a secure manner in compliance with all laws and ordinances, and all such storage places shall be clearly marked. Where no local laws or ordinances apply, storage shall be provided to the satisfaction of the Engineer and in general not closer than 300 m from the road or from any building or camping area or place of human occupancy. In addition to these, the Contractor shall also observe the following instructions and any further additional instructions which may be given by the Engineer and shall be responsible for damage to property and any accident which may occur to workmen or the public on account of any operations connected with the storage, handling or use of explosives and blasting. The Engineer shall frequently check the Contractor’s compliance with these precautions.
2. Materials, Tools and Equipment
11. All the materials, tools and equipment used for blasting operations shall be of approved type. The Engineer may specify the type of explosives to be allowed in special cases. The fuse to be used in wet locations shall be sufficiently water-resistant as to be unaffected when immersed in water for 30 minutes. The rate of burning of the fuse shall be uniform and definitely known to permit such a length being cut as will permit sufficient time to the firer to reach safety before explosion takes place. Detonators shall be capable of giving effective blasting of the explosives. The blasting powder, explosives, detonators, fuses, etc., shall be fresh and not damaged due to dampness, moisture or any other cause. They shall be inspected before use and damaged articles shall be discarded totally and removed from the site immediately.
3. Personnel
12. The blasting operation shall remain in the charge of competent and experienced supervisor and workmen who are thoroughly acquainted with the details of handling explosives and blasting operations.
4. Blasting Operations
13. The blasting shall be carried out during fixed hours of the day preferably during the mid-day luncheon hour or at the close of the work as ordered in writing by the Engineer. The hours shall be made known to the people in the vicinity. All the charges shall be prepared by the man in charge only.
14. The Contractor shall notify each public utility company having structures in proximity to the site of the work of his intention to use explosives. Such notice shall be given sufficiently in advance to enable the companies to take such steps as they may deem necessary to protect their property from injury. In advance of any blasting work within 50 m of any railway track or structures, the Contractor shall notify the concerned Railway Authority of the location, date, time and approximate duration of such blasting operations.
295
15. Red danger flags shall be displayed prominently in all directions during the blasting operations. The flags shall be planted 200m and 500m from the blasting site in all directions for blasting at work site and quarry, respectively. People, except those who actually light the fuse, shall be prohibited from entering this area, and all persons including workmen shall be excluded from the flagged area at least 10 minutes before the firing, a warning siren being sounded for the purpose.
16. The charge holes shall be drilled to required depths and at suitable places. Blasting should be as light as possible consistent with thorough breakage of the material necessary for economic loading and hauling. Any method of blasting which leads to overshooting shall be discontinued.
17. When blasting is done with powder, the fuse cut to the required length shall be inserted into the hole and the powder dropped in. The powder shall be gently tamped with copper rods with rounded ends. The explosive powder shall then be covered with tamping material which shall be tamped lightly but firmly.
18. When blasting is done with dynamite and other high explosives, dynamite cartridges shall be prepared by inserting the square cut end of a fuse into the detonator and finishing it with nippers at the open end, the detonator gently pushed into the primer leaving 1/3rd of the copper tube exposed outside. The paper of the cartridge shall then be closed up and securely bound with wire or twine. The primer shall be housed into the explosive. Boreholes shall be such size that the cartridge can easily go down. The holes shall be cleared of all debris and explosive inserted. The space of about 200 mm above the charge shall then be gently filled with dry clay, pressed home and the rest of the tamping formed of any convenient material gently packed with a wooden rammer.
19. At a time, not more than 10 such charges will be prepared and fired. The man in charge shall blow a siren in a recognised manner for cautioning the people. All the people shall then be required to move to safe distances. The charges shall be lighted by the man- in-charge only. The man-in-charge shall count the number of explosions. He shall satisfy himself that all the charges have been exploded before allowing the workmen to go back to the blasting site.
5. Misfire
20. In case of misfire, the following procedure shall be observed:
• Sufficient time shall be allowed to account for the delayed blast. The man- in-charge shall inspect all the charges and determine the missed charge. • If it is the blasting powder charge, it shall be completely flooded with water. A new hole shall be drilled at about 450 mm from the old hole and fired. This should blast the old charge. Should it not blast the old charge, the procedure shall be repeated till the old charge is blasted. • In case of charges of gelignite, dynamite, etc., the man-in-charge shall gently remove the tamping and the primer with the detonator. A fresh detonator and primer shall then be used to blast the charge. Alternatively, the hole may be cleared of 300 mm of tamping and the direction then ascertained by placing a stick in the hole. Another hole may then be drilled 150 mm away and parallel to it. This hole shall then be charged and fired when the misfired hole should explode at the same time. The man-in-charge shall at once report to the Contractor’s office and the Engineer all cases of misfire, the cause of the same and what steps were taken in connection therewith.
296
• If a misfire has been found to be due to defective detonator or dynamite, the whole quantity in the box from which defective article was taken must be sent to the authority directed by the Engineer for inspection to ascertain whether all the remaining materials in the box are also defective.
6. Account
21. A careful and day to day account of the explosive shall be maintained by the Contractor in an approved register and manner which shall be open to inspection by the Engineer at all times.
22. During quarry operation, periodic joint inspection should be carried out by the Contractor and Engineer’s representatives.
23. A typical checklist for the same is given here.
297
Quarry Source Identification
Construction Stage Report: One Time Date: Supervision Consultant: Contractor: Contract Package: Location of Quarry (Ch. & Offset):
Sl. No. Item / Requirement Details as per Actual
1 Present land use (bare land with no prominent vegetation is preferred) 2 Predominant wind direction 3 Size and area of Quarry (m xm & Sq.m) 4 Quantity Available (Cum) 5 Quantity proposed to be collected (Cum) 6 No of Trees with girth more than 0.3 m 7 No Settlement within 1500 m of Quarry 8 No water body within 1500 m of Quarry 9 Width of Haul road (m) 10 Total Length of Haul Road (km) 11 Length of Non-metal Haul Road (km) (should be as minimum as possible) 12 No of Settlements within 200m of Non-metal Haul Road (should be as minimum as possible) 13 Quantity of water required for dust suppression i.e. sprinkling at borrow area and on non-metal haul road (Cum) 14 Details of Water sources for dust suppression 15 Availability of water required for dust suppression (Cum)
Documents to be attached: 1) Site plan and layout plan of quarry site 2) Proposed quarry site operation and redevelopment plan 3) Written consent / lease agreement with the Department of Mines & Geology 4) Written consent from competent authority for use of water for dust suppression
Certified that the furnished information is correct and all relevant information as required is attached
Contractor’s Representative:
Details to be inspected for Monitoring Quarry Area Operation & Management
Attribute Requirements s Access road • Only approved access road shall be used
Top soil • Top soil, if any, should be stripped and stored at designated area preservation before start of quarry material collection; • Top soil should be re-used / re-laid as per agreed plan
298
Attribute Requirements s Controlled • Storage of explosive magazine as per threshold quantity with all the blasting & safety measures; safety • Handling of explosive by licensed blaster only; • Use low intensity explosive; • Check unfired explosive, if any, before drilling; • Carryout blasting at lean time only; • Cordoned the area within 500m radius with flagmen having whistle for signaling preparedness; • Using properly designed audio visual signal system i.e. siren and flagmen for blasting; • Keep ready an emergency vehicle near blasting area with first aid facility and with active emergency response system. Damage to • Movement of man & machinery should be regulated to avoid damage to surrounding surrounding land. land Drainage • The surface drainage in and around the area should be connected to control the natural drainage;
Dust control • Haul road should be made metallic; • Suitable dust arrester for drilling; • Water spraying at quarry complex, if required. Covering • Material transport vehicle should be provided with tail board, and cover material transport vehicle Personal • Workers shall be provided with helmet, safety shoes, ear muffler and Protective air musk and their use should be strictly enforced. Equipment Redevelopment • The area should be redeveloped within two months (or as agreed) on completion of material collection as per agreed plan.
299
Appendix 13: Noise Modeling Details
1. Federal Highway Administration's Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM) helps for highway traffic noise prediction and analysis. TNM computes highway traffic noise at nearby receivers. As sources of noise, it includes noise emission levels for the following vehicle types: • Automobiles: all vehicles with two axles and four tires -- primarily designed to carry nine or fewer people (passenger cars, vans) or cargo (vans, light trucks) -- generally with gross vehicle weight less than 4,500 kg (9,900 lb); • Medium trucks: all cargo vehicles with two axles and six tires -- generally with gross vehicle weight between 4,500 kg (9,900 lb) and 12,000 kg (26,400 lb); • Heavy trucks: all cargo vehicles with three or more axles -- generally with gross vehicle weight more than 12,000 kg (26,400 lb); • Buses: all vehicles designed to carry more than nine passengers; and • Motorcycles: all vehicles with two or three tires and an open-air driver / passenger compartment.
2. The procedure for prediction of noise levels involves the following steps: 1. Identification of various receivers 2. Determination of landuse and activities which may be affected by the noise generated 3. Assemble input parameters 4. Application of the model
3. The description of the components to predict noise level are as follows: a. Receivers: TNM calculates the sound levels at the input receivers. In this study two type of receivers selected to assess the impacts of moving traffic on surrounding noise level. One, discrete receptor and second, grid receptor. b. Land uses: Land use along the road is obtained from the topographic drawings. This information provides the range of shielding and absorption factors to be applied at the various receivers. c. Input Parameters: Traffic volume for the projected period is obtained from the traffic projections. The total number of vehicles passing per hour by type - light, medium and heavy along with their average speed is used for predictions. d. Average Noise Level: All vehicles produce noise, which is taken as the base, and the cumulative noise at the receiver distance due to the whole traffic is estimated. The average noise level varies depending on the type of vehicle. e. Application of Model: Equivalent noise levels due to traffic at the receivers are estimated using Federal Highway Noise model. Equivalent Sound Level (TEQ, denoted by the symbol, LAeqT): Ten times the base-10 logarithm of the square of the ratio of time-average, mean-square, instantaneous A-weighted sound pressure, during a stated time interval, T (where T=t2-t1), and the reference mean-square sound pressure of 20 : Pa, the threshold of human hearing, e.g., 1HEQ, denoted by the symbol, LAeq1H, represents the hourly equivalent sound level. LAeqT is related to LAE by the following equation :
LAeqT = LAE - 10*log10(t2-t1)
where LAE = Sound exposure level in dB
Sound Exposure Level (SEL, denoted by the symbol, LAE): Over a stated time interval, T (where T=t2-t1), ten times the base-10 logarithm of the ratio
300
of a given time integral of squared instantaneous A-weighted sound pressure, and the product of the reference sound pressure of 20:Pa, the threshold of human hearing, and the reference duration of 1 sec. The time interval, T, must be long enough to include a majority of the sound source’s acoustic energy. As a minimum, this interval should encompass the 10 dB down points. Annual average daily motorized traffic data is given in table 1.
Table 1: Annual average daily motorized traffic data
Year 4W LCV Truck Bus 3W 2W 2020 5786 9143 13532 19068 5786 9143 2025 1080 1321 1576 1836 1080 1321 2030 2741 3449 4216 5032 2741 3449 2035 1328 1889 2551 3350 1328 1889
Table 2: Baseline (Equivalent) Noise Levels at monitoring locations in dB (A) along the project road
Equivalent Noise Levels in dB(A) DAY NIGHT 64.16 54.22
Table 3: Predicted Noise Levels in dB (A) along the project road (without Barrier)
Day LHS RHS 200 100 50 20 10 10 20 50 100 200 2020 64.2 64.5 65.6 68.2 70.0 70.0 68.2 65.5 64.4 64.2 2025 64.3 64.7 66.1 69.3 71.3 71.2 69.3 66.0 64.6 64.3 2030 64.3 64.9 66.7 70.4 72.5 72.5 70.4 66.6 64.7 64.3 2035 64.4 65.1 67.3 71.5 73.7 73.7 71.5 67.3 64.9 64.4 Night LHS RHS 200 100 50 20 10 10 20 50 100 200 2020 54.9 56.9 61.1 66.4 68.9 68.9 66.4 60.9 56.5 54.9 2025 55.2 57.7 62.4 67.9 70.5 70.4 67.9 62.2 57.2 55.2 2030 55.5 58.6 63.7 69.3 71.9 71.9 69.3 63.5 58.0 55.5 2035 55.9 59.4 64.9 70.7 73.3 73.3 70.7 64.8 58.8 55.9
Observations
4. Predicted noise levels (Leq) near the receivers within 100m from the road edge are found to be marginally higher than desired levels for the respective landuse categories. The baseline noise levels(2019) are already higher than the permissible limits of CPCB for
301
different landuse categories for day and night. The predicted levels show increase in noise levels for future years at all receivers considering increase in traffic volume. The incremental noise levels for future years exceeds the allowable limit of 3 dB (A) from the baseline levels. Mitigation measures suggested in EMP should be adopted for the sensitive receptors falling within 100 m road edge of the road corridor.
Figure 1: Noise levels from edge of the road (Day) 76.0
74.0
72.0
70.0 2020 2025 68.0
2030 Noisein dB Levels 66.0 2035
64.0
62.0 -300 -200 -100 0 100 200 300 Distance from edge of the road, m
Noise dispersion
5. A small road corridor has been selected to develop noise contour for base year as well as future years also. The contour lines are generated by plotting a contour zone within 30 m distance from edge of the road on both side of the road. Due to model limitation, it is not possible to select the whole road corridor in the modelling domain. Therefore, spatial dispersion of noise has been shown with a small stretch of road. Figure 2 to 5 shows noise level contour around a small road corridor for year 2020, 2025, 2030 and 2035 respectively. These predicted results are for peak traffic hours. During non-peak traffic hours, the noise levels are very less compared to noise level for peak traffic hours.
Figure 2: Noise contour for year 2020
302
Figure 3: Noise contour for year 2025
Figure 4: Noise contour for year 2030
Figure 5: Noise contour for year 2035
303
304
Appendix 14: Details of Participants and Public Consultation attendance list
305
306
307
308
309
310
311
312
313
Photographs taken during Public Consultation
314
Appendix 15: Results of Monitored Parameters along the Project Road
315
316
317
318
319
320
321
322
323
324
325
326
327
328
329
330
Appendix 16: Biodiversity Action Plan
Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project, Thanjavur - Mannargudi Road Section (SH-63): Biodiversity Action Plan
Drafted for the Asian Development Bank by John Pilgrim Limited – 24th November 2020 Author: John D. Pilgrim
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 331 2 INTRODUCTION 333
2.1 PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES 333 2.2 APPROACH 333 3 BIODIVERSITY 334
3.1 CONTEXT 334 3.2 PRIORITY BIODIVERSITY 334 4 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON CRITICAL AND NATURAL HABITAT 336
4.1 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON CRITICAL HABITAT 336 5 MITIGATION AND CONSERVATION MEASURES FOR IMPACTS ON CRITICAL AND NATURAL HABITAT 340
5.1 MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES 340 5.2 RESIDUAL IMPACTS 347 6 BIODIVERSITY MONITORING 350 7 REFERENCES 360 APPENDIX A. CRITICAL AND NATURAL HABITAT ASSESSMENT 362
A.1 AREAS OF ANALYSIS 362 A.2 ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY WHICH MAY QUALIFY THE AREA AS CRITICAL HABITAT 363 A.3 ASSESSMENT OF NATURAL HABITAT 368
331
1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This document is a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) for the upgrading of the c.28 km-long Thanjavur-Mannargudi section of SH63, in Tamil Nadu State, India (hereafter “the Project”). This BAP is a supplement to the Project Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) (TNHD 2020). The Project is proposed for financing by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and has been identified as a Category B project because it is likely to have site-specific environmental impacts, for which mitigation is readily available. This Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) has been developed because the Project runs through the buffer zone (“eco-sensitive zone”) of the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary. The BAP will help to implement good-practice mitigation and demonstrate Project compliance with ADB biodiversity safeguards (ADB 2009). It is a living document and can be adapted during the Project life in response to new information on the scale or significance of Project impacts or mitigation and management measures. The Project is located largely or entirely within Modified Habitat, comprising villages, towns, agriculture and waterbodies (especially reservoirs). A full Critical Habitat Assessment (Appendix A) identified this landscape to be Critical Habitat for a bird species (Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus) and the Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary Important Bird Area (Table 1; Section 3). Without mitigation, the Project might possibly have significant impacts on Critical Habitat- qualifying biodiversity (Section 4), including degradation of the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary IBA by construction pollution, spread of invasive alien species, disturbance of birds by noise during construction and from increased traffic during the operations phase, and mortality of birds from vehicle collisions. A number of general or standard mitigation/enhancement measures have already been outlined in the Project IEE (TNHD 2020). This BAP includes a small number of additional/specific mitigation and management measures (Section 5) necessary to reduce residual impacts on Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity to levels in line with the ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (ADB 2009). For the most part, these are not anticipated to result in any significant Project time delays. However, installation of noise-reducing barriers may cost up to $500,000 USD (Section 5.1.3), acoustic compressors for noisy equipment are anticipated to cost c. $4,000 USD (Section 5.1.2), wash stations to help avoid introduction/spread of invasive alien species are estimated to cost <$10,000 USD (Section 5.1.4), and signs warning against poaching (Section 5.1.5) and advising of speed limits and warning of animals crossing (Section 5.1.6) are estimated to cost <$900. Total additional mitigation costs are thus anticipated to be up to $514,900 USD. The full list of additional/specific mitigation measures is: • Ensure no drainage from road through bunds into Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary (Section 5.1.1); • Use acoustic enclosures for noisy equipment (e.g., diesel generators, compressors) (Section 5.1.2); • Install noise-reducing barriers next to the road on the side adjoining Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary (Section 5.1.3); • Avoid introduction of new invasive species to, and spread of existing invasive species within, the Project area (Section 5.1.4); • Install anti-poaching signs in the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone (Section 5.1.5); and • Install speed limit and animal crossing warning signs in the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone (Section 5.1.6). After these general and specific mitigation measures, very few significant negative residual impacts on Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity are anticipated by the operations phase of the Project. The Project does not impact any significant areas of Natural Habitat. Some small
332 residual impacts on Black-headed Ibis from construction disturbance are anticipated to remain until the early stages of the operations phase. However, installation of noise-reducing barriers between the road and Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary is anticipated to have a long-term positive impact by reducing noise disturbance to birds in the sanctuary below current levels. To ensure Project mitigation and offsets are successfully implemented, and impacts avoided or minimized, the Project will undertake a program of monitoring and evaluation (Section 6). In summary, this Project will be compliant with ADB biodiversity safeguards (ADB 2009) because it will put in place mitigation (Section 5.1) to address impacts on Critical Habitat that result in a net gain, including: (i) no measurable adverse impacts on critical habitat that could impair its ability to function; and (ii) no reduction in the population of any recognized endangered or critically endangered species. Project mitigation measures will also enhance the conservation aims of the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary protected area through long-term reduction of noise disturbance (Section 5.1.3).
333
2 INTRODUCTION
2.1 Purpose and objectives
This document is a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) for the upgrading of the Thanjavur- Mannargudi section of SH63, in Tamil Nadu State, India, hereafter referred to as “the Project”. This Project comprises c.28 km of road improvement (including widening, though not along the entire length), three minor realignments, reconstruction of two bridges, and widening of two additional bridges (TNHD 2020). Other tranches of the Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project upgrade are not part of this Project and so not considered here. An Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) has been drafted (TNHD 2020), and this Project is proposed for financing under a loan from ADB. Under the ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS: ADB 2009), this has been identified as a Category B project because it is likely to have site-specific environmental impacts, for which mitigation is readily available. The potential for biodiversity impacts particularly arises because the Project runs through the buffer zone (“eco- sensitive zone”) of the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary, which has also been identified as a global Important Bird Area. The nearest bridge alteration to the sanctuary is a widening at chainage km 17+632, approximately 1 km east and over a river not related to provision of water to this sanctuary (SMEC 2019). The bridge over the channel immediately west of the sanctuary is to be retained, with only minor repairs. There is a minor realignment planned at km 16+600- 16+760 (moving the road slightly further away from Vaduvoor Lake: A. Thamburaj, Government of Tamil Nadu Highways Department, in litt. 2020) and retaining walls (essentially a 3 m-high embankment upon which the road sits) in some places. The nearest street lighting is planned at km 16+760 (within the sanctuary’s eco-sensitive zone, but already a built-up area: A. Thamburaj, Government of Tamil Nadu Highways Department, in litt. 2020). The ADB SPS requires projects in Natural Habitat to design mitigation measures to achieve at least no net loss of biodiversity. It requires projects in Critical Habitat to demonstrate ‘no measurable adverse impacts, or likelihood of such, on the critical habitat which could impair its high biodiversity value or the ability to function’, no ‘reduction in the population of any recognized endangered or critically endangered species or a loss in area of the habitat concerned such that the persistence of a viable and representative host ecosystem be compromised’, and mitigation of any lesser impacts. This BAP assesses these risks and presents the Project’s strategy for alignment with the ADB SPS. Following the draft ADB Environmental Safeguards Good Practice Sourcebook (ADB 2012), this BAP assesses the presence of Critical and Natural Habitat in the Project area (Section 3; Appendix A), evaluates potential impacts on priority biodiversity (Section 4), outlines Project commitments to mitigation and management measures to achieve at least no net loss for Critical Habitat (Section 5), and summarizes an approach to monitoring and evaluation to give assurance of Project performance (Section 6). It is a living document and can be adapted during the Project life in response to new information on the scale or significance of Project impacts or mitigation and management measures.
2.2 Approach
This BAP was developed through a review of existing Project documentation, other existing grey and published literature, and questions to Project staff and consultants. It aligns with the ADB SPS (ADB 2009) and International Finance Corporation Performance Standard 6 and its accompanying Guidance Note (IFC 2012, 2019). Except where necessary, this document does not repeat extensive information available in other key project documents, such as the IEE, developed as part of the process of compliance with the ADB SPS.
334
3 BIODIVERSITY
3.1 Context
The Project area falls within the East Deccan Dry Evergreen Forests ecoregion (Wikramanayake et al. 2002). This is an area of very low terrestrial endemism, and has been extensively impacted by humans for hundreds of years – with >95% of the ecoregion now deforested (Wikramanayake et al. 2002). Much of the area is now converted to agriculture, and remaining areas of natural habitat are heavily grazed. From an aquatic perspective, the Project area falls within the Southeastern Ghats freshwater ecoregion (Abell et al. 2008). As with terrestrial species, this is an area of low aquatic species endemism.
3.2 Priority biodiversity
A full Critical Habitat Assessment (Appendix A) used a single simple Area of Analysis (AoA) to assess Project risks. This assessment identified the AoA to be possible or actual Critical Habitat for one bird species and one internationally-recognized site (Table 1). Although in some cases conclusions could be refined by further studies, on a precautionary basis the features listed in Table 1 should both be considered priorities for the Project to avoid, mitigate and – if necessary – offset impacts upon. More extensive details of why each feature meets Critical Habitat criteria are given in Appendix A.
Table 1. Summary of Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity in the Project area Biodiver Species Critical Habitat Justification sity type criterion qualified6 1 2 3 4 5 6 Bird Black-headed Supports >1% of the global population of this Ibis migratory and congregatory species. Threskiornis melanocephal us Site Vaduvoor Qualifies as an IBA/KBA because it supports Lake Bird >1% of the global population of the migratory Sanctuary and congregatory Black-headed Ibis. Important Bird Area
Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary Important Bird Area More information is available here. This protected area also represents an Important Bird Area for Black-headed Ibis (Section A.2.3). It was originally identified as an IBA owing to globally significant numbers of Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis), when that species was considered globally Vulnerable (BirdLife International 2020a). However, the site no longer qualifies as an IBA (and thus also not as Critical Habitat) for the species, as that species is now considered Near Threatened and only relatively small numbers are recorded at the site. It may also have previously been identified as an IBA for multiple migratory species (criterion A4), but this no longer qualifies sites as global-level IBAs, based on revised KBA criteria (IUCN 2016).
Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) Pictures and more information are available here.
6 = likely to qualify area as Critical Habitat; ? = possibly qualifies area as Critical Habitat. Both based on available information.
335
This large wetland bird occurs patchily across South, South-East and East Asia, and is considered globally Near Threatened (BirdLife International 2020e). It is particularly threatened by hunting, egg collecting and disturbance at breeding colonies, and drainage and conversion of foraging habitats to agriculture. In some areas, it is locally increasing as it adapts to use of anthropogenic wetlands and some types of agricultural land. Breeding birds in southern India particularly congregate from October to March, and nest on trees in or near wetlands. There is only significant tree cover on the north side of the road, where the sanctuary is located, and this is therefore where this species nests. Nonetheless, at times, Black-headed Ibis uses fields on both sides of the road to feed (TNHD 2020).
Based on Appendix A.3, the Project can be considered to be situated largely or entirely within Modified Habitat (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Map of Project area, showing locations of Area of Analysis, Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary/Important Bird Area, and land use/land cover in relation to the existing road. All terrestrial areas are considered to be Modified Habitat (Section A.3). Imagery Sources: NRSC (2019); Open Street Map 2020; Protected Area and Key Biodiversity Area data downloaded from the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT). Provided by BirdLife International, Conservation International, IUCN and UNEP-WCMC.
336
4 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON CRITICAL AND NATURAL HABITAT
This assessment followed recent good practice impact assessment methodology used for a project involving aquatic and terrestrial impacts (MRDI 2019). Following this methodology, pre-mitigation impacts on Critical Habitat (Table 1) are assessed in Table 2 and discussed in Section 4.1. There is no significant extent of Natural Habitat in the Project area (Appendix A.3), so the Project is not predicted to have significant impacts on Natural Habitat.
4.1 Potential impacts on Critical Habitat
The Project AoA represents Critical Habitat for one bird and one internationally-recognized site (Table 1). The magnitude of risks to this Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity ranges from moderate-major, given their rarity, threatened status, conservation importance, and level of public concern about these species and the site (Table 2).
4.1.1 Habitats The overall significance of potential impacts on the Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary Important Bird Area is assessed as Low-Medium (Table 2). The Project will operate within the eco- sensitive zone of this sanctuary, rather than the sanctuary itself, so clearance of vegetation will not directly impact the IBA. Further, trees to be cleared are largely non-native (e.g., fruit trees: TNHD 2020). Nonetheless, there is potential for degradation of the sanctuary from hydrological changes or pollution from sedimentation, dust, sewage, or other construction waste. Risks of habitat degradation by hydrological changes or pollution during construction are considered to be of Medium Significance. Degradation of habitat from accidentally spilled fuel/oil or surface runoff is less likely, given the bund separating the sanctuary from the road, and so is considered a Low Significance risk. The potential for indirect impacts has also been considered. Degradation of vegetation through collection of timber or firewood by construction workers is considered a Low risk. A potentially more significant indirect project impact on Critical Habitat is the introduction of invasive alien species (IAS). The Global Invasive Species Database (http://www.iucngisd.org/gisd) has records for 226 terrestrial or freshwater IAS in India, of which 134 are plants. IAS can spread rapidly once introduced, significantly modifying habitat, and present a very high risk to biodiversity globally. There is potential for construction machinery, equipment or materials to introduce IAS to the Project site, particularly plants – e.g., as seeds within soil on machinery. Some of these species may not be introduced by the Project, but simply spread further. For example, the invasive American plant Lantana camara impacts forests by reducing recruitment of native tree species (Sharma & Raghubanshi 2007), and is already widespread in India. Therefore, risks of habitat degradation by invasive alien species are considered to be of Medium Significance.
4.1.2 Species The Project AoA represents Critical Habitat for Black-headed Ibis (Table 1). Habitat impacts for this species reflect those for the IBA (Section 4.1.1), with the additional potential for clearance of potential nesting trees for the species outside of the IBA. Any clearance of Black-headed Ibis nesting trees outside the IBA would be considered of Medium Significance. This is, however, very unlikely as there are very few trees on the side of the road which will be expanded. Local people have reported there to be no accidents between birds and vehicles at present (TNHD 2020). However, vehicle collisions with Black-headed Ibis are possible given the numbers of this species in the area, its use of the ground for feeding, and the fact that the Project road will be at the same level as (indeed, situated on) the lake bund for approximately half of the distance alongside Vaduvoor sanctuary and the road will be raised above the lake
337
by 3 m for the other half (S. Choukikker in litt. 2020). As such, mortality from vehicle collisions potentially poses a Medium Significance threat to Black-headed Ibis. Likewise, displacement of Black-headed Ibis owing to noise and disturbance during construction and operations is assessed to be of Medium Significance because it may reduce the breeding success of the species. The potential for indirect impacts has also been considered. Poaching of Black-headed Ibis by construction workers is considered to be a Low Significance risk. Increased traffic volumes also have the potential to increase poaching during the operation phase. However, this is considered a Low risk because it is unlikely to occur to any significant extent in this area, for a couple of reasons. First, the road will increase traffic, but not actual access to the area (i.e., a functional road already exists along roughly the same alignment). Second, poaching is an illegal activity which thus usually takes place out of sight – the area is heavily populated and increased traffic will further hinder roadside poaching during the day. Although BirdLife (2020a) reports poaching in the area, local people report that there is currently no hunting in the area (TNHD 2020).
338
Table 2. Impact assessment for Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity in the Project area (refer to MRDI 2019 for Impact Significance
Rating Methodology)
Component D-Design,C- Construction, O-Operation changeto the receptor
Environmental Factor ProjectPhase Impact Sensitivityof Receptors of Level Concern Public Severityor degree of Magnitude Timeframe Spatial Scale Consequence Probability Significance Degradation of habitat from hydrological D, C H H H MAJ LT SMALL H UNLIKE M changes. Degradation of habitat during construction from C sedimentation, dust, sewage, or other H H H MAJ ST SMALL M POSS M Vaduvoor Lake construction waste. Bird Sanctuary Habitat Degradation of habitat from accidentally spilled Important Bird C, O H H H MAJ MT SMALL M UNLIKE L fuel/oil or surface runoff. Area Degradation of vegetation due to C H M M MOD ST SMALL L POSS L timber/firewood collection. Degradation of vegetation by introduction of C H L M MOD LT SMALL M POSS M invasive alien species. Loss of habitat due to intentional loss of D, C H H M MAJ LT SMALL H UNLIKE M vegetation cover. Degradation of habitat from hydrological D, C H H M MAJ LT SMALL H UNLIKE M changes. Degradation of habitat during construction from Black-headed Ibis C sedimentation, dust, sewage, or other H H M MAJ ST SMALL M POSS M (Threskiornis Habitat construction waste. melanocephalus) Degradation of habitat from accidentally spilled C, O H H M MAJ MT SMALL M UNLIKE L fuel/oil or surface runoff, Degradation of habitat due to timber/firewood C H M M MOD ST SMALL L POSS L collection. Degradation of habitat by introduction of C H L M MOD LT SMALL M POSS M invasive alien species.
339
Component D-Design,C- Construction, O-Operation changeto the receptor
Environmental Factor ProjectPhase Impact Sensitivityof Receptors of Level Concern Public Severityor degree of Magnitude Timeframe Spatial Scale Consequence Probability Significance Displacement of species due to noise, C presence of machinery and equipment and H H M MAJ ST SMALL M POSS M Distribution presence of construction workers. Displacement of species due to noise from O M M M MOD LT SMALL M POSS M normal traffic or maintenance activities. Mortality of individuals due to poaching by C H H M MAJ ST SMALL M UNLIKE L construction workers. Mortality Increased poaching from increased traffic O H H M MAJ LT SMALL M UNLIKE L through the area. C, O Mortality of individuals due to vehicle collision. H H M MAJ LT SMALL M POSS M
Notes: Project Phase = D-Design, C-Construction, O-Operation; Magnitude = MAJ-Major, MOD-Moderate, MIN-Minor; Timeframe = LT-Long- term, MT-Medium-term, ST-Short-term; Spatial Scale = INTER-Intermediate, SMALL-Small; Probability = DEF-Definite, POSS-Possible, UNLIKE-Unlikely.
340
5 MITIGATION AND CONSERVATION MEASURES FOR IMPACTS ON CRITICAL AND NATURAL HABITAT
5.1 Mitigation and management measures
A number of general or standard mitigation/enhancement measures have already been outlined in the Project IEE (TNHD 2020). Table 3 summarizes these general/standard mitigation measures relevant to potential Project impacts on Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity (Section 4), with some rewording from TNHD (2020) for clarity. Given the focus on Black-headed Ibis (Section 3.2), a particularly important aspect of Project mitigation is restricting construction works in the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone to the non- breeding season (April-September). Table 3 also includes a small number of additional or tailored mitigation measures necessary to reduce this Project’s specific residual impacts on Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity to levels in line with the ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (ADB 2009), based on a precautionary approach. The additional/specific mitigation measures are elaborated in Sections 5.1.1-5.1.6. The Project has also committed, in line with government requirements, to plant trees in a 10:1 ratio to compensate for those felled (TNHD 2020). It will be important to ensure that any compensation for trees felled in the sanctuary eco-sensitive zone occurs within the sanctuary or its eco-sensitive zone, and prioritizes native species used for nesting by Black-headed Ibis. Since trees to be felled are mostly non-native (e.g., fruit trees: TNHD 2020), this may require additional tree planting or compensation for local people. Although these equate to compensation or “offset” measures rather than mitigation, they are mandatory under law so are included in this mitigation section. Few specific mitigation measures are anticipated to result in any significant Project time delays or costs. The most expensive measure is installation of noise-reducing barriers which, dependent on final design, may cost up to $500,000 USD (Section 5.1.3). Acoustic compressors for noisy equipment are anticipated to cost c. $4,000 USD (Section 5.1.2). Up to two wash stations to help avoid introduction/spread of invasive alien species are estimated to cost <$10,000 USD (Section 5.1.4). Last, signs warning against poaching (Section 5.1.5), advising of speed limits and warning of animals crossing (Section 5.1.6) are estimated to cost <$900. These costs are summarized in Section 5.1.7. Few short-term, and no long-term, negative residual impacts on Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity are anticipated after general and specific mitigation (Section 5.2).
341
Table 3. Mitigation and management measures for Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity. Responsibility Environmental Project Aspect Impact Mitigation action Development/ Component phase Control implementation
Degradation of habitat from Ensure no drainage from road through PIU- D, C EPC contractor hydrological bunds into Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary. ESMU/CSC changes. Degradation of Spray water on construction areas to reduce PIU- EPC contractor habitat during dust. ESMU/CSC construction from Strict prohibition on use of the Vaduvoor C sedimentation, Lake Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone for PIU- dust, sewage, or construction camps, borrow pits, or storage EPC contractor/PIU ESMU/CSC other construction of materials/waste; provision of self- waste. contained toilet facilities. Degradation of habitat from Ensure no drainage from road through PIU- Vaduvoor Lake C, O accidentally EPC contractor bunds into Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary. ESMU/CSC Bird Sanctuary spilled fuel/oil or Habitat Important Bird surface runoff, Area Prohibit collection, sale or purchase of PIU- timber/firewood by staff and contractors, EPC contractor/PIU ESMU/CSC Degradation of with heavy penalties applied. vegetation due to Train staff and contractors in good C PIU- timber/firewood environmental practice, and prohibited EPC contractor ESMU/CSC collection. activities. Ensure contractors supply all necessary PIU- EPC contractor food, cooking fuel and appropriate housing. ESMU/CSC Avoid introduction of new invasive species Degradation of to, and spread of existing invasive species vegetation by within, the Project area through: PIU- C introduction of EPC contractor - washing of vehicles, equipment and ESMU/CSC invasive alien supplies before entry to the Project area; species. - monitoring for invasive species; and
342
Responsibility Environmental Project Aspect Impact Mitigation action Development/ Component phase Control implementation
- control/eradication of invasive species where found.
Only expand road on side away from PIU- EPC contractor Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary. ESMU/CSC Minimise removal of vegetation and width of Loss of habitat EPC road expansion in Vaduvoor Lake Bird PIU- due to intentional contractor/PIU/Forest D, C Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone to the extent ESMU/CSC loss of vegetation Department possible. cover. Compensate for any loss of trees, prioritising EPC PIU- native species used for nesting by Black- contractor/Forest ESMU/CSC headed Ibis. Department Degradation of habitat from Ensure no drainage from road through PIU- D, C EPC contractor Black-headed hydrological bunds into Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary. ESMU/CSC Ibis (Threskiornis Habitat changes. melanocephalus) Degradation of Spray water on construction areas to reduce PIU- EPC contractor habitat during dust. ESMU/CSC construction from Strict prohibition on use of the Vaduvoor C sedimentation, Lake Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone for PIU- dust, sewage, or construction camps, borrow pits, or storage EPC contractor/PIU ESMU/CSC other construction of materials/waste; provision of self- waste. contained toilet facilities. Degradation of habitat from Ensure no drainage from road through PIU- C, O accidentally EPC contractor bunds into Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary. ESMU/CSC spilled fuel/oil or surface runoff,
343
Responsibility Environmental Project Aspect Impact Mitigation action Development/ Component phase Control implementation
Prohibit collection, sale or purchase of PIU- timber/firewood by staff and contractors, EPC contractor/PIU ESMU/CSC Degradation of with heavy penalties applied. vegetation due to Train staff and contractors in good C PIU- timber/firewood environmental practice, and prohibited EPC contractor ESMU/CSC collection. activities. Ensure contractors supply all necessary PIU- EPC contractor food, cooking fuel and appropriate housing. ESMU/CSC Avoid introduction of new invasive species to, and spread of existing invasive species Degradation of within, the Project area through: habitat by - washing of vehicles, equipment and PIU- C introduction of EPC contractor supplies before entry to the Project area; ESMU/CSC invasive alien - monitoring for invasive species; and species. - control/eradication of invasive species where found. In the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary eco- Displacement of sensitive zone, only undertake construction PIU- species due to EPC contractor during the day, between April and ESMU/CSC noise, presence of September. machinery and C Use acoustic enclosures for noisy equipment PIU- equipment and EPC contractor (e.g., diesel generators, compressors). ESMU/CSC presence of Install noise-reducing barriers next to the construction PIU- Distribution road on the side adjoining Vaduvoor Bird EPC contractor workers. ESMU/CSC Sanctuary. Displacement of species due to Install noise-reducing barriers next to the noise from normal PIU- O road on the side adjoining Vaduvoor Bird EPC contractor traffic or ESMU/CSC Sanctuary. maintenance activities.
344
Responsibility Environmental Project Aspect Impact Mitigation action Development/ Component phase Control implementation
Prohibit hunting, trapping, fishing and trading PIU- of wildlife by staff and contractors, with EPC contractor/PIU Mortality of ESMU/CSC heavy penalties applied. individuals due to Train staff and contractors in good C poaching by PIU- environmental practice, and prohibited EPC contractor construction ESMU/CSC activities. workers. Ensure contractors supply all necessary PIU- EPC contractor food. ESMU/CSC Install anti-poaching signs in the Vaduvoor PIU- Increased EPC contractor Mortality Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone. ESMU/CSC poaching from O Use noise-reducing barriers to prevent increased traffic PIU- access to Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary from the EPC contractor through the area. ESMU/CSC road, except in specific locations. Apply 20-30 km/hr speed limits for PIU- construction vehicles in the Vaduvoor Bird EPC contractor Mortality of ESMU/CSC Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone. C, O individuals due to Install speed limit and animal crossing vehicle collision. PIU- warning signs in the Vaduvoor Bird EPC contractor ESMU/CSC Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone. CSC = Construction Supervision Consultant; EPC = Engineering, Procurement and Construction; PIU-ESMU = Project Implementation Unit- Environmental and Social Management Unit. Notes: Project Phase = D-Design, C-Construction, O-Operation.
345
5.1.1 Ensure no drainage from road through bunds into Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary Drainage from the road into Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary could change its hydrology or facilitate the spread of construction pollution or accidentally spilled fuel/oil (Section 4.1). Such drainage is unlikely, owing to the bunds between the road and the sanctuary. However, the bunds have been in disrepair for some time (BirdLife International 2020a). It will therefore be important to ensure that the bund next to the road is in good repair before starting construction, and that road drainage and camber in the sanctuary’s eco-sensitive zone directs any run-off towards the side of the road away from the sanctuary. This mitigation measure is not anticipated to cause any significant additional cost or time delay for the Project.
5.1.2 Use acoustic enclosures for noisy equipment (e.g., diesel generators, compressors) Although the Project will avoid work in Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary during the breeding season, Black-headed Ibis is present there in lower numbers throughout the year. Disturbance during the non-breeding season may deter birds from staying for the breeding season. As such, noise during construction will be further limited by use within the sanctuary’s eco-sensitive zone of acoustic enclosures for noisy equipment such as diesel generators or compressors. Such enclosures are readily available and relatively cheap, costing c. $2,000 USD/unit in India. It is possible that two enclosures may need to be purchased, costing c. $4,000 USD.
5.1.3 Install noise-reducing barriers next to the road on the side adjoining Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary The most practical long-term measure to address disturbance to nesting birds in Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary will be to install noise-reducing barriers along the road in the eco-sensitive zone. While such barriers do not remove noise impacts, and their benefits are reduced to negligible levels at about 200-300 m beyond their location, they can have considerable positive benefits adjacent to roads (CEDR 2017). These barriers should be installed prior to construction, so that they also minimize disturbance from construction noise. While some access points may be necessary, and should be decided upon in conjunction with sanctuary staff, noise-reducing barriers are likely to have additional benefits in minimizing: (i) disturbance from stopped vehicles along the roadside; (ii) low flight of birds over the road (thus reducing collision risks); and (iii) the potential for future poaching of birds in the sanctuary. A diversity of options exists for noise barriers (CEDR 2017). Final choice and design (including height) of noise-reducing barriers should be based on measurements/predictions of traffic noise. Barriers such as acoustic fences are relatively cheap, but less effective at preventing transmission of noise than more expensive barriers such as gabion walls. Metal and timber barriers are more rapidly susceptible to deterioration and should be avoided (CEDR 2017). The cost of noise-reducing barriers will vary considerably depending upon final design, but is unlikely to exceed c. $800 USD/metre. For the c. 1 km of Project road adjacent to the sanctuary, the total cost is thus likely to be <$500,000 USD.
5.1.4 Avoid introduction of new invasive species to, and spread of existing invasive species within, the Project area Invasive species are one of the most significant global threats to biodiversity, and their management is thus a key consideration for Projects under ADB safeguards (ADB 2009). Invasive species may be spread in many ways, in particular through transport into a project area of materials or equipment from outside that area. In order to manage the risk of introducing or spreading invasive species into Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary or its eco-sensitive zone, an Invasive Species Management Plan will be developed. This will include at minimum: pressure washing of vehicles, equipment and supplies before nearing Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary and its eco-sensitive zone; monitoring for invasive species
346 in Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary, its eco-sensitive zone, and 5 km either side; and control/eradication of invasive species where found in Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary or its eco- sensitive zone. Washing need not use substantial amounts of water, and can be replaced by brushing during any periods of low water supply. It is anticipated that costs of a wash station are unlikely to exceed US$5,000 USD, and that at most two would be needed (on either side of the sanctuary). Such preventative measures are generally considerably less costly than measures to control or eradicate invasive species.
5.1.5 Install anti-poaching signs Anti-poaching signs along the road adjacent to the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary (a stretch of c. 1 km) would help minimize any long-term impacts of poaching induced by the road improvements. Road signs are inexpensive, <$150 USD each, so this mitigation action may be estimated to cost up to $150/sign for one sign at each end of the sanctuary = $300 USD.
5.1.6 Install speed limit and animal crossing warning signs in the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone Noise-reducing barriers should reduce the number of birds along the roadside, or flying low across the road, near Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary. However, an additional low cost mitigation measure will be to install speed limit signs and animal crossing warning signs along the road adjacent to the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary (a stretch of c. 1 km). Road signs are inexpensive, <$150 USD each, so this mitigation action may be estimated to cost up to $150/sign for one speed limit sign at each end of the sanctuary and a couple of animal crossing warning signs = $600 USD.
5.1.7 Cost estimates for Mitigation and Management Measures Table 4 provides an overview of the costs for mitigation and management measures described above.
347
Table 4. Cost estimates for specific biodiversity mitigation measures additional to those mentioned in the IEE Mitigation measure Unit cost No. Total cost Remarks ($ USD) 5.1.1: Ensure no drainage from 0 n/a 0 No significant cost road through bunds into Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary 5.1.2: Use acoustic enclosures c. $2,000 2 c.$4,000 c. $2,000/acoustic for noisy equipment (e.g., diesel enclosure generators, compressors) 5.1.3: Install noise-reducing <$800/metre c. 1 km <$500,000 barriers next to the road on the side adjoining Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary 5.1.4: Avoid introduction of new <$5,000 2 <$10,000 <$5,000/wash invasive species to, and spread station of existing invasive species within, the Project area 5.1.5: Install anti-poaching signs <$150 2 <$300 in the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary eco-sensitive zone 5.1.6: Install speed limit and <$150 4 <$600 Two of each type animal crossing warning signs in of sign the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary eco- sensitive zone Total <$514,900 USD
5.2 Residual impacts
Following the impact assessment methodology used in MRDI (2019), residual impacts for Critical Habitat-qualifying (“priority”) biodiversity (Table 1), after the application of Project mitigation (Section 5.1) are assessed in Table 5. Very few significant negative residual impacts on Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity are anticipated by the operations phase of the Project. The Project does not impact any significant areas of Natural Habitat. Some small residual impacts on Black-headed Ibis from construction disturbance are anticipated to remain until the early stages of the operations phase. However, installation of noise-reducing barriers between the road and Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary is anticipated to have a long-term positive impact by reducing noise disturbance to birds in the sanctuary below current levels.
348
Table 5. Residual impacts after mitigation for Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity Residual impact after implementation of Significance mitigation measures Key Environmental Project of impact Preparation, Operation Phase Aspect Impact Residual Component phase without Construction, and Impacts mitigation Worksite Closure Day 1 Year 20 Phases Degradation of habitat from D, C M n/a n/a n/a n/a hydrological changes. Degradation of habitat during construction from sedimentation, C M Negligible Negligible Negligible n/a dust, sewage, or other construction Vaduvoor Lake waste. Bird Sanctuary Degradation of habitat from Habitat Important Bird C, O accidentally spilled fuel/oil or L n/a n/a n/a n/a Area surface runoff. Degradation of vegetation due to C L Negligible Negligible Negligible n/a timber/firewood collection. Degradation of vegetation by C introduction of invasive alien M Negligible Negligible Negligible n/a species. Loss of habitat due to intentional D, C M n/a n/a n/a n/a loss of vegetation cover. Degradation of habitat from D, C M n/a n/a n/a n/a hydrological changes. Degradation of habitat during construction from sedimentation, C M Negligible Negligible Negligible n/a dust, sewage, or other construction Black-headed waste. Ibis (Threskiornis Habitat Degradation of habitat from melanocephalus) C, O accidentally spilled fuel/oil or L n/a n/a n/a n/a surface runoff. Degradation of habitat due to C L Negligible Negligible Negligible n/a timber/firewood collection. Degradation of habitat by C introduction of invasive alien M Negligible Negligible Negligible n/a species.
349
Displacement of species due to noise, presence of machinery and C M Low Low n/a n/a equipment and presence of Distribution construction workers. Displacement of species due to O noise from normal traffic or M n/a Positive Positive Positive maintenance activities. Mortality of individuals due to C L Negligible Negligible Negligible n/a poaching by construction workers. Increased poaching from increased Mortality O L n/a Negligible Negligible n/a traffic through the area. Mortality of individuals due to C, O M Negligible Negligible Negligible n/a vehicle collision.
Notes: Project Phase = D-Design, C-Construction, O-Operation.
350
6 BIODIVERSITY MONITORING
The Project will undertake a general program of monitoring during site preparation, construction and operations phase. Within that program, specific monitoring will be undertaken for Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity to confirm presence of effective mitigation (Table 3). This monitoring is outlined in Table 6.
351
Table 6. Key areas of monitoring necessary to assess changes in the state of priority biodiversity, changes in threats, and progress of project mitigation actions Where is What the How is the When is the Environmen Proje Issue/impac parameter parameter parameter to parameter to Institutional tal Aspect ct Mitigation action t is to be to be be be monitored responsibility Component phase monitored? monitored monitored? (frequency)? ? Unannounced External No drainage Vaduvoor inspections at Monitor/ PIU- Degradation Ensure no drainage Review of from road Bird least quarterly Environment of habitat from road through design into Sanctuary during design Wing D, C from bunds into Vaduvoor documents; Vaduvoor and eco- phase and eco- hydrological Lake Bird visual Lake Bird sensitive sensitive zone changes. Sanctuary. inspections Sanctuary zone construction phase Water External Spray water on spraying is Monitor/ PIU- construction areas Degradation happening Environment to reduce dust. of habitat regularly Wing Vaduvoor during Strict prohibition on No Unannounced External Vaduvoor Lake Bird construction use of the Vaduvoor construction inspections at Monitor/ PIU- Bird Sanctuary Habitat from Lake Bird Sanctuary camps, least quarterly Environment Sanctuary Visual Important C sedimentatio eco-sensitive zone borrow pits during eco- Wing eco- inspections Bird Area n, dust, for construction or material sensitive zone sensitive sewage, or camps, borrow pits, storage; construction zone other or storage of provision of phase construction materials/waste; self- waste. provision of self- contained contained toilet toilet facilities. facilities Degradation No drainage Vaduvoor Unannounced External Ensure no drainage Review of of habitat from road Bird inspections at Monitor/ PIU- from road through design from into Sanctuary least quarterly Environment C, O bunds into Vaduvoor documents; accidentally Vaduvoor and eco- during design Wing Lake Bird visual spilled Lake Bird sensitive phase and eco- Sanctuary. inspections fuel/oil or Sanctuary zone sensitive zone
352
Where is What the How is the When is the Environmen Proje Issue/impac parameter parameter parameter to parameter to Institutional tal Aspect ct Mitigation action t is to be to be be be monitored responsibility Component phase monitored? monitored monitored? (frequency)? ? surface construction runoff. phase
Prohibit collection, Unannounced ExternalMonito Vaduvoor Review of sale or purchase of inspections at r/ PIU- Bird Project timber/firewood by least quarterly Environment Sanctuary incident staff and during eco- Wing and eco- logbook and contractors, with sensitive zone sensitive records of heavy penalties Staff construction zone sanctuary staff applied. adherence phase to best Review of Unannounced ExternalMonito Vaduvoor Degradation Train staff and practice training inspections at r/ PIU- Bird of vegetation contractors in good records; least quarterly Environment Sanctuary C due to environmental review of during eco- Wing eco- timber/firewo practice, and Project sensitive zone sensitive od collection. prohibited activities. incident construction zone logbook phase Unannounced ExternalMonito Vaduvoor Ensure contractors inspections at r/ PIU- Sufficient Bird supply all necessary least quarterly Environment food, fuel Sanctuary Visual food, cooking fuel during eco- Wing and housing eco- inspections and appropriate sensitive zone available sensitive housing. construction zone phase Avoid introduction of Washing of Transit site ExternalMonito Unannounced Degradation new invasive vehicles, outside r/ PIU- inspections at of habitat by species to, and equipment Vaduvoor Environment least quarterly introduction spread of existing and Bird Visual Wing C during eco- of invasive invasive species supplies Sanctuary inspections sensitive zone alien within, the Project before entry eco- construction species. area through: to Project sensitive phase - washing of area zone
353
Where is What the How is the When is the Environmen Proje Issue/impac parameter parameter parameter to parameter to Institutional tal Aspect ct Mitigation action t is to be to be be be monitored responsibility Component phase monitored? monitored monitored? (frequency)? ? vehicles, equipment Annually, in External Abundance/ Vaduvoor and supplies before summer, during Monitor/ PIU- spread of Bird entry to the Project Surveys by design phase Environment invasive Sanctuary area; specialist sub- and eco- Wing alien and eco- - monitoring for contractor sensitive zone species in sensitive invasive species; construction Project area zone and phase - control/eradication Control of ExternalMonito Vaduvoor of invasive species new/spreadi Records of Quarterly during r/ PIU- Bird where found. ng areas of invasive eco-sensitive Environment Sanctuary invasive species zone Wing and eco- alien control; visual construction sensitive species in inspections phase zone Project area Unannounced External No road Vaduvoor inspections at Monitor/ PIU- Review of Only expand road expansion Bird least quarterly Environment design on side away from on side next Sanctuary during design Wing documents; Vaduvoor Lake Bird to Vaduvoor eco- phase and eco- visual Loss of Sanctuary. Lake Bird sensitive sensitive zone Black- inspections habitat due Sanctuary zone construction headed Ibis to intentional phase (Threskiornis Habitat D, C loss of Unannounced External melanocepha Minimise removal of Vegetation vegetation Vaduvoor inspections at Monitor/ PIU- lus) vegetation and width clearance is Review of cover. Bird least quarterly Environment of road expansion in as minimal design Sanctuary during design Wing Vaduvoor Lake Bird as legally documents; eco- phase and eco- Sanctuary eco- and visual sensitive sensitive zone sensitive zone to the technically inspections zone construction extent possible. necessary phase
354
Where is What the How is the When is the Environmen Proje Issue/impac parameter parameter parameter to parameter to Institutional tal Aspect ct Mitigation action t is to be to be be be monitored responsibility Component phase monitored? monitored monitored? (frequency)? ? Unannounced ExternalMonito Compensate for any Vaduvoor inspections r/ PIU- loss of trees by Bird annually eco- Environment replanting at a 10:1 Planting and Sanctuary Visual sensitive zone Wing ratio, prioritising maintenanc eco- inspections construction native species used e of trees sensitive phase and first for nesting by Black- zone three years of headed Ibis. operation phase Unannounced ExternalMonito No drainage Vaduvoor inspections at r/ PIU- Degradation Ensure no drainage Review of from road Bird least quarterly Environment of habitat from road through design into Sanctuary during design Wing D, C from bunds into Vaduvoor documents; Vaduvoor and eco- phase and eco- hydrological Lake Bird visual Lake Bird sensitive sensitive zone changes. Sanctuary. inspections Sanctuary zone construction phase Water ExternalMonito Spray water on spraying is r/ PIU- construction areas Degradation happening Environment to reduce dust. of habitat regularly Wing during Strict prohibition on No Unannounced External Vaduvoor construction use of the Vaduvoor construction inspections at Monitor/ PIU- Bird from Lake Bird Sanctuary camps, least quarterly Environment Sanctuary Visual C sedimentatio eco-sensitive zone borrow pits during eco- Wing eco- inspections n, dust, for construction or material sensitive zone sensitive sewage, or camps, borrow pits, storage; construction zone other or storage of provision of phase construction materials/waste; self- waste. provision of self- contained contained toilet toilet facilities. facilities
355
Where is What the How is the When is the Environmen Proje Issue/impac parameter parameter parameter to parameter to Institutional tal Aspect ct Mitigation action t is to be to be be be monitored responsibility Component phase monitored? monitored monitored? (frequency)? ? Degradation Unannounced ExternalMonito of habitat No drainage Vaduvoor inspections at r/ PIU- Ensure no drainage Review of from from road Bird least quarterly Environment from road through design accidentally into Sanctuary during design Wing C, O bunds into Vaduvoor documents; spilled Vaduvoor and eco- phase and eco- Lake Bird visual fuel/oil or Lake Bird sensitive sensitive zone Sanctuary. inspections surface Sanctuary zone construction runoff. phase Prohibit collection, Unannounced External Vaduvoor Review of sale or purchase of inspections at Monitor/ PIU- Bird Project timber/firewood by least quarterly Environment Sanctuary incident staff and during eco- Wing and eco- logbook and contractors, with sensitive zone sensitive records of heavy penalties Staff construction zone sanctuary staff applied. adherence phase to best Review of Unannounced External Vaduvoor Degradation Train staff and practice training inspections at Monitor/ PIU- Bird of vegetation contractors in good records; least quarterly Environment Sanctuary C due to environmental review of during eco- Wing eco- timber/firewo practice, and Project sensitive zone sensitive od collection. prohibited activities. incident construction zone logbook phase Unannounced ExternalMonito Vaduvoor Ensure contractors inspections at r/ PIU- Sufficient Bird supply all necessary least quarterly Environment food, fuel Sanctuary Visual food, cooking fuel during eco- Wing and housing eco- inspections and appropriate sensitive zone available sensitive housing. construction zone phase Degradation Avoid introduction of Washing of Transit site Unannounced ExternalMonito Visual C of habitat by new invasive vehicles, outside inspections at r/ PIU- inspections introduction species to, and equipment Vaduvoor least quarterly
356
Where is What the How is the When is the Environmen Proje Issue/impac parameter parameter parameter to parameter to Institutional tal Aspect ct Mitigation action t is to be to be be be monitored responsibility Component phase monitored? monitored monitored? (frequency)? ? of invasive spread of existing and Bird during eco- Environment alien invasive species supplies Sanctuary sensitive zone Wing species. within, the Project before entry eco- construction area through: to Project sensitive phase - washing of area zone vehicles, equipment Annually, in ExternalMonito Abundance/ Vaduvoor and supplies before summer, during r/ PIU- spread of Bird entry to the Project Surveys by design phase Environment invasive Sanctuary area; specialist sub- and eco- Wing alien and eco- - monitoring for contractor sensitive zone species in sensitive invasive species; construction Project area zone and phase - control/eradication Control of ExternalMonito Vaduvoor of invasive species new/spreadi Records of Quarterly during r/ PIU- Bird where found. ng areas of invasive eco-sensitive Environment Sanctuary invasive species zone Wing and eco- alien control; visual construction sensitive species in inspection phase zone Project area In the Vaduvoor Bird External No Unannounced Displacemen Sanctuary eco- Vaduvoor Monitor/ PIU- construction inspections at t of species sensitive zone, only Bird Environment at night, or least quarterly due to noise, undertake Sanctuary Visual Wing between during eco- presence of construction during eco- inspections October and sensitive zone machinery the day, between sensitive Distributi March construction C and April and zone on inclusive phase equipment September. and In the Vaduvoor Bird Use of Unannounced ExternalMonito Vaduvoor Review of presence of Sanctuary eco- enclosures; inspections at r/ PIU- Bird certificates; construction sensitive zone, use noise levels least quarterly Environment Sanctuary visual workers. acoustic enclosures of Project during eco- Wing eco- inspection for noisy equipment vehicles, sensitive zone
357
Where is What the How is the When is the Environmen Proje Issue/impac parameter parameter parameter to parameter to Institutional tal Aspect ct Mitigation action t is to be to be be be monitored responsibility Component phase monitored? monitored monitored? (frequency)? ? (e.g., diesel equipment sensitive construction generators, and zone phase compressors). machinery against prescribed standards Presence External and Monitor in the Install noise- Vaduvoor maintenanc first year/PIU- reducing barriers Bird e of noise- Annually during Environment next to the road on Sanctuary Visual reducing the operation Wing the side adjoining eco- inspection barriers, phase Vaduvoor Bird sensitive except in Sanctuary. zone specific locations Presence External Displacemen and Monitor in the Install noise- Vaduvoor t of species maintenanc first year/PIU- reducing barriers Bird due to noise e of noise- Annually during Environment next to the road on Sanctuary Visual O from normal reducing the operation Wing the side adjoining eco- inspection traffic or barriers, phase Vaduvoor Bird sensitive maintenance except in Sanctuary. zone activities. specific locations Prohibit hunting, Unannounced Mortality of Vaduvoor Review of trapping, fishing and inspections at External individuals Staff Bird Project trading of wildlife by least quarterly Monitor in the due to adherence Sanctuary incident Mortality C staff and during eco- first year/PIU- poaching by to best and eco- logbook and contractors, with sensitive zone Environment construction practice sensitive records of heavy penalties construction Wing workers. zone sanctuary staff applied. phase
358
Where is What the How is the When is the Environmen Proje Issue/impac parameter parameter parameter to parameter to Institutional tal Aspect ct Mitigation action t is to be to be be be monitored responsibility Component phase monitored? monitored monitored? (frequency)? ? Review of Unannounced External Vaduvoor Train staff and training inspections at Monitor in the Bird contractors in good records; least quarterly first year/PIU- Sanctuary environmental review of during eco- Environment eco- practice, and Project sensitive zone Wing sensitive prohibited activities. incident construction zone logbook phase Unannounced External Vaduvoor inspections at Monitor in the Bird Ensure contractors Sufficient least quarterly first year/PIU- Sanctuary Visual supply all necessary food during eco- Environment eco- inspections food. available sensitive zone Wing sensitive construction zone phase Vaduvoor Install anti-poaching Presence of Bird signs in the PIU- anti- Sanctuary Visual Before worksite Vaduvoor Bird Environmental poaching eco- inspection closure Sanctuary eco- Wing signs sensitive sensitive zone. zone Increased Presence External poaching and Monitor in the from Vaduvoor maintenanc first year/PIU- O increased Bird Use noise-reducing e of noise- Annually during Environment traffic Sanctuary Visual barriers to prevent reducing the operation Wing through the eco- inspection access to Vaduvoor barriers, phase area. sensitive Bird Sanctuary from except in zone the road, except in specific specific locations. locations Vaduvoor Review of Annually during ExternalMonito Poaching Bird records of the operation r in the first incidents Sanctuary sanctuary staff phase year/PIU-
359
Where is What the How is the When is the Environmen Proje Issue/impac parameter parameter parameter to parameter to Institutional tal Aspect ct Mitigation action t is to be to be be be monitored responsibility Component phase monitored? monitored monitored? (frequency)? ? and eco- Environment sensitive Wing zone Unannounced Vaduvoor checks at least Bird ExternalMonito Constructio twice quarterly Sanctuary Speed testing r/ PIU- n vehicle during design eco- 'gun' Environment Apply 20-30 km/hr speeds and sensitive Wing speed limits for construction zone construction phases vehicles in the Review of Vaduvoor Bird Vaduvoor Project At least twice Sanctuary eco- Dead Bird incident per quarter PIU- sensitive zone. birds/animal Sanctuary logbook and during design Environment s on or next eco- records of and Mortality of Wing/CSC to road sensitive sanctuary construction individuals zone staff; visual phases C, O due to inspection vehicle Presence of PIU- collision. Vaduvoor speed Environment Bird breakers Wing Sanctuary Visual Before worksite and animal Install speed limit eco- inspection closure crossing and animal crossing sensitive warning warning signs in the zone signs Vaduvoor Bird Vaduvoor PIU- Sanctuary eco- Visual Dead Bird Environment sensitive zone. inspection; Annually during birds/animal Sanctuary Wing review of the operation s on or next eco- records of phase to road sensitive sanctuary staff zone
360
7 REFERENCES
Abell, R., Thieme, M.L., Revenga, C., Bryer, M., Kottelat, M., Bogutskaya, N., Coad, B., Mandrak, N., Balderas, S.C., Bussing, W., Stiassny, M.L.J., Skelton, P., Allen, G.R., Unmack, P., Naseka, A., Ng, R., Sindorf, N., Robertson, J., Armijo, E., Higgins, J.V., Heibel, T.J. & Wikramanayake, E. (2008) Freshwater Ecoregions of the World: A New Map of Biogeographic Units for Freshwater Biodiversity Conservation. BioScience 58: 403-414. ADB (2009) Safeguard Policy Statement. Asian Development Bank, Manila, Philippines. ADB (2012) Environmental Safeguards: A Good Practice Sourcebook. Draft Working Document. Asian Development Bank, Manila, Philippines. Bhor, S. (2020) Checklist S65638837. Tue 10 Mar 2020 09:08. Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary, Thiruvar County, Tamil Nadu, India. Available at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S65638837. BirdLife International (2020a) Important Bird Areas factsheet: Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary. Available at: http://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/vaduvoor-lake-bird- sanctuary-iba-india. BirdLife International (2020b) Species factsheet: Neophron percnopterus. Available at: http://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/egyptian-vulture-neophron-percnopterus. BirdLife International (2020c) Species factsheet: Sterna acuticauda. Available at: http://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/black-bellied-tern-sterna-acuticauda. BirdLife International (2020d) Species factsheet: Sypheotides indicus. Available at: http://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/lesser-florican-sypheotides-indicus. BirdLife International (2020e) Species factsheet: Threskiornis melanocephalus. Available at: http://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/22697516. CAMP Workshops on Medicinal Plants, India (1998) Saraca asoca. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 1998: e.T34623A9879360. Available at: https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.1998.RLTS.T34623A9879360.en. CEDR (2017) Technical Report 2017-02. State of the art in managing road traffic noise: noise barriers. Conference of European Directors of Roads, Brussels, Belgium. Cumberlidge, N. (2008) Oziothelphusa bouvieri. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2008: e.T134178A3914923. Available at: https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2008.RLTS.T134178A3914923.en. IFC (2012) Performance Standard 6: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources. International Finance Corporation, Washington DC. IFC (2019) Guidance Note 6: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources. International Finance Corporation, Washington DC. IUCN (2016) A Global Standard for the Identification of Key Biodiversity Areas, Version 1.0. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland. IUCN (2020) The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2020-1. Available at: https://www.iucnredlist.org. Jagadeesan, C. (2020) Checklist S63442464. Thu 16 Jan 2020 17:36. Kollidam River, Vazhkai, Thanjavur County, Tamil Nadu, India. Available at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S63442464. Marjuk, S. (2020) Checklist S65671645. Tue 10 Mar 2020 18:32. Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary, Thiruvarur County, Tamil Nadu, India. Available at: https://ebird.org/india/checklist/S65671645. MRDI (2019) Environmental Impact Assessment. GEO: Batumi Bypass Road Project. Poti-Grigoleti-Kobuleti Bypass: Poti-Grigoleti Road Section (Lot 2, Stage 1). Roads Department of the Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure of Georgia, Tblisi. Available at: https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/project-documents/50064/50064-001- eia-en_3.pdf.
361
NRSC (2019) Natural Resource Census. Land Use / Land Cover Database for Dissemination through Bhuvan. National Remote Sensing Centre, Land Use & Cover Monitoring Division, Department of Space, Government of India, Hyderabad. Serckx, A., Pollard, E., Wilson, D., Katariya, V. and Pilgrim, J. (2018) Lekela North Ras Gharib 250 MW Project: Critical Habitat Assessment. The Biodiversity Consultancy Ltd, Cambridge, UK. Sharma, G.P. & Raghubanshi (2007) Effect of Lantana camara L. cover on local depletion tree population in a tropical dry deciduous forest. Applied Ecology and Environmental Research 5: 109-121. SMEC (2019) Final Detailed Project Report. Vol. I – Main Report: Upgrading of Thanjavur- Mannargudi-Thirutharaipoondi-Vedaranyam-Kodiyakarai Road (SH-63) Km 0/000 to Km 27/585 (up to Mannargudi). SMEC, Gurugram, Haryana, India. Srinivasulu, C., Srinivasulu, B. & Ganesan, S.R. (2013) Typhlops pammeces. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2013: e.T178532A1538295. Available at: https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T178532A1538295.en. TNHD (2020) India: Tamil Nadu Industrial Connectivity Project Thanjavur - Mannargudi Road Section (SH-63). Environmental Impact Assessment prepared by Highways and Minor Ports Department (TNHD), Government of Tamil Nadu for the Asian Development Bank. V, S. (2019) Checklist S60667662. Wed 16 Oct 2019 17:00. Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary, Thiruvarur County, Tamil Nadu, India. Available at: https://ebird.org/checklist/S60667662. Wetlands International (2012) Waterbird Population Estimates, Fifth Edition. Wetlands International, Wageningen, The Netherlands. Wikramanayake, E., Dinerstein, E., Loucks, C.J., Olson, D.M., Morrison, J., Lamoreux, J., McKnight, M. & Hedao, P. (2002) Terrestrial ecoregions of the Indo-Pacific: a conservation assessment. Island Press, Washington DC, USA.
362
APPENDIX A. CRITICAL AND NATURAL HABITAT ASSESSMENT
The ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (ADB 2009) requires assessment of whether the project is planned in an area that may qualify as Critical Habitat or Natural Habitat. This assessment followed more detailed guidance in International Finance Corporation Performance Standard 6 and its accompanying guidance note (IFC 2012, 2019). This CHA was rapidly developed through a desktop review of existing Project documentation and other existing grey and published literature. Except where necessary, this document does not repeat information available in the Project IEE (TNHD 2020). Most information used in this rapid desk-based assessment comes from that IEE (including field surveys in January-February 2020) or broad-scale species distribution maps (IUCN 2020).
A.1 Areas of analysis
Critical Habitat and Natural Habitat assessment ideally takes place across sensible ecological or political units that are sufficiently large to encompass all direct and indirect impacts from the project. These areas of analysis (AoAs) are thus often much broader than the direct project footprint. AoAs may be separate or combined, depending on the ecology of the biodiversity concerned. Given the rapid desktop nature of this assessment, the location of the Project within an extensively anthropogenic landscape of agriculture, villages and towns (Appendix A.3), and limited biodiversity of conservation concern in this landscape (Appendix A.2), a single AoA for this Project was defined to encompass the Project itself, and a 1 km buffer to encompass any likely significant biodiversity impacts – which includes the whole of the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary (Figure A1). The buffer is an arbitrary distance, and smaller than in some other road projects within or near to Natural Habitat, but still sufficiently precautionary to ensure capture of significant biodiversity impacts such as edge effects, disturbance by construction workers, and noise/dust/pollution impacts during construction. A single AoA was chosen given the rapid nature of the assessment and limited biodiversity of conservation concern in the Project landscape. The AoA as defined is just under 70 km2. Identification of this AoA does not mean that the project has any obligations across it. The aim of this Critical and Natural Habitat Assessment is to identify whether the broad unit qualifies as Critical Habitat and, if so, for which biodiversity features. This information helps to prioritize impact assessment and to focus mitigation efforts.
363
Figure A1. Map of Project context, showing locations of the Area of Analysis, Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary/Important Bird Area, and land use/land cover in relation to the existing road Imagery Sources: NRSC (2019); Open Street Map 2020; Protected Area and Key Biodiversity Area data downloaded from the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT). Provided by BirdLife International, Conservation International, IUCN and UNEP-WCMC.
A.2 Assessment of biodiversity which may qualify the area as Critical Habitat
Each of the following sections considers candidate Critical Habitat-qualifying biodiversity identified within the IEE (TNHD 2020), the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT: www.ibat-alliance.org), or other literature as actually or potentially present. In each case, reasons are identified for each biodiversity feature likely meeting or not meeting Critical Habitat. Two categories of biodiversity that might qualify the area as Critical Habitat were only considered briefly here, and should be assessed further by social experts – specifically areas that provide key ecosystem services and areas with biodiversity that has significant social, cultural or economic importance to local communities.
A.2.1 Critically Endangered and Endangered species Critically Endangered, Endangered, and (per IFC 2019) Vulnerable species and relevant subspecies were included in an initial barriering if they were found during surveys, or there is indication of their presence near the Project site from literature. Threat status is taken from the global IUCN Red List (IUCN 2020). India has produced lists of threatened species for several groups of species, but none of these are in line with current IUCN categories and criteria. Comparison with IUCN Red List Extent of Occurrence maps identified the potential for two Critically Endangered, four Endangered, and 12 Vulnerable species to occur in the Project AoA. Review of other available project documents and grey literature (including TNHD 2020) identified an additional Endangered species (Egyptian Vulture
364
Neophron percnopterus) and an additional Vulnerable species (the plant Saraca asoca) as potentially present in the AoA. The total of 20 candidate species was reduced to four after a quick barrier of IUCN distribution maps against quantitative thresholds for Critical Habitat (IFC 2019) – based on the extremely limited extent of their global distribution known or likely to be within the AoA, it was implausible that many would meet these thresholds. The 16 discounted species are listed in Table A1. The remaining three are considered in more detail below.
Table A1. Species with marginal occurrence, if present at all, in the Project AoA Biodiversity Scientific name Common name IUCN type Category
1. Bird Aquila nipalensis Steppe Eagle EN
2. Bird Gyps bengalensis White-rumped Vulture CR
3. Bird Calidris pygmaea Spoon-billed CR Sandpiper
4. Bird Ciconia episcopus Asian Woollyneck VU
5. Bird Pycnonotus Yellow-throated Bulbul VU xantholaemus
6. Fish Cirrhinus cirrhosus Mrigal Carp VU
7. Fish Bagarius yarrelli VU
8. Fish Wallago attu VU
9. Mammal Lutrogale perspicillata Smooth-coated Otter VU
10. Mammal Rusa unicolor Sambar VU
11. Mammal Manis crassicaudata Indian Pangolin EN
12. Mammal Macaca radiata Bonnet Macaque VU
13. Plant Oryza VU malampuzhaensis
14. Plant Anacyclus pyrethrum Atlas Daisy VU
15. Reptile Crocodylus palustris Mugger VU
16. Reptile Geochelone elegans Indian Star Tortoise VU
365
1. Lesser Florican (Sypheotides indicus) This species is considered globally Endangered because it has a very small and rapidly declining population, estimated at only 1,500 mature individuals (BirdLife International 2020d). It is listed as of concern in the Project area by TNHD (2020), but there are very few records from Tamil Nadu. As such, it is very unlikely that this species qualifies the Project area as Critical Habitat.
2. Black-bellied Tern (Sterna acuticauda) This species is considered globally Endangered (BirdLife International 2020c). It occurs across India and is listed as of concern in the Project area by TNHD (2020), but is restricted for most of the time to larger rivers. A few individuals have been seen on the Kollidam River (e.g., Jagadeesan 2020), more than 10 km to the north of the Project, but the species is unlikely to occur in the Project area in significant numbers. As such, it is very unlikely that this species qualifies the Project area as Critical Habitat.
3. Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) This globally Endangered species has a broad distribution in Africa, Europe and Asia, but has suffered rapid declines across its range in recent years (BirdLife International 2020b). It is listed as of concern in the Project area by TNHD (2020) and there are recent records of up to four individuals from Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary (e.g., Bhor 2020), c. 30 km south of the eastern end of the Project. However, to qualify as Critical Habitat per IFC (2019), the AoA would have to regularly support 0.5% of the global population, i.e. at least 90 birds. As such, it is very unlikely that this species qualifies the Project area as Critical Habitat.
4. Saraca asoca This globally Vulnerable species is restricted to the south and central Western Ghats and Sri Lanka (CAMP Workshops on Medicinal Plants, India 1998). It is recorded in the Project area (TNHD 2020). However, given the relatively large extent of occurrence of this species, much of which is outside of the range of the Project, it is very unlikely that this species qualifies the Project area as Critical Habitat.
A.2.2 Endemic or restricted-range species Following the IFC PS6 Guidance Note (IFC 2019), species were considered restricted- range if their global extent of occurrence was 50,000 km2 or less (for terrestrial vertebrates) or, for riverine species, if their global range had less than 500 km linear geographic span. Species were included in an initial barriering if they were found during surveys, or there is indication of their presence from literature. This part of India does not have high endemism, so only two restricted-range species were identified as possibly having distributions overlapping the Project area.
1. South India Worm Snake (Indotyphlops pammeces) This species is considered Least Concern, with a distribution which appears to be under 30,000 km2 and thus qualifies it as a restricted-range species (Srinivasulu et al. 2013). It is a fossorial species, so is poorly known, but inhabits the dry scrublands of southeast India. It is presently known only from Ramanathapuram district in south eastern Tamil Nadu. While it is possible that this species may be present in the Project area, it is unlikely that the Project AoA holds ≥10% of the species’ population. As such, this species does not qualify the Project area as Critical Habitat.
2. Oziothelphusa bouvieri This freshwater crab is so poorly known that it is considered Data Deficient (Cumberlidge 2008). It is known only from the type locality at Yercaud near Salem in the Eastern Ghats,
366 and so is considered restricted-range. This location is a long way from the Project, though it is mapped across the Project area by IUCN because the type locality is in the same freshwater basin. Nonetheless, it is unlikely to occur in the Project area and thus does not qualify the Project area as Critical Habitat.
A.2.3 Migratory or congregatory species Southern India is at the southern end of the Central Asian flyway, which is particularly important for waterbirds. Species which could possibly occur in the area and regularly migrate or congregate in large numbers were identified from survey results, project documents, other literature, and IBAT. More than 150 migratory bird species were identified, as were more than 30 fishes, 12 odonates (dragonflies/damselflies), and a number of species of migratory shrimp/prawn. No migratory bat species were identified in the Project area.
The Project IEE (TNHD 2020) lists a number of fish species as present in the Project area, but a number of these appear to be in error (comprising, for example, strictly marine fish). Of those reported, only Shortfin Eel (Anguilla bicolor) seems likely to occur in the area and to be migratory/congregatory. However, this species has a wide distribution from the eastern coast of Africa through to the western Pacific Ocean. It is thus highly unlikely that populations in the Project area could meet Critical Habitat thresholds.
Many birds which use active flight migrate across a broad front, though they may be concentrated by coastlines. Others are much more reliant on stepping stones of natural habitat, including wetlands. Migratory soaring birds are dependent upon the thermals generated by mountain/hill ranges. The Project area lacks mountain ranges or coastline. While on a flyway, there is thus no current indication that the Project AoA holds any particular concentrations of migratory species away from isolated water bodies. The only site which has been identified as globally significant for migratory species near to the Project is the only sizeable waterbody near the road, the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary (BirdLife International 2020a). As an Important Bird Area (IBA) and legally protected area, Vaduvoor is also considered in Section A.2.6.
Vaduvoor was identified as an IBA owing to globally significant numbers of Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis), when that species was considered globally Vulnerable (BirdLife International 2020a). However, the site no longer qualifies as an IBA (and thus also not as Critical Habitat) for the species, as it is now considered Near Threatened and only relatively small numbers are recorded at the site (e.g., up to 25 by V 2019). It may also have previously been identified as an IBA for multiple migratory species (criterion A4), but this no longer qualifies sites as global-level IBAs, based on revised KBA criteria (IUCN 2016). However, survey data suggest up to 772 Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) were recorded in February 2019 (TNHD 2020). The IEE is unclear as to whether surveys from different parts of Vaduvoor may include double-counting, but Marjuk (2020) recorded more than 450 at the site in March 2020. Wetlands International (2012) considers the population of this species to be at least 25,000 globally, while BirdLife International (2020e) estimates 15,000-20,000 individuals. In either case, Vaduvoor qualifies as an IBA/KBA, and Critical Habitat, for Black-headed Ibis, as it seasonally holds >1% of the global population.
There is no reason to believe, following global good practice, that the Project area beyond Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary would be “critical habitat” for any migratory species, by representing a particular bottleneck along the migration flyway, being used as a resting area during migration, or being an area of low flight that would lead to regular interaction with project infrastructure (Sercx et al. 2018).
367
Six congregatory bat species were identified as likely to occur in the Project area: Schneider’s Leaf-nosed Bat (Hipposideros speoris); Greater False Vampire (Lyroderma lyra); Kelaart's Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus ceylonicus); Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus); Leschenault’s Rousette (Rousettus leschenaultia); and Long-winged Tomb Bat (Taphozous longimanus). Indian Flying Fox colonies, of hundreds or thousands of individuals, are found in trees. The other four species have colonies, numbering into the hundreds or sometimes thousands, in caves or similar habitats such as tunnels or disused buildings. Nonetheless, all six species are widespread and not uncommon through their ranges. As such, unless caves or other large bat roosting sites are identified in the area, it is unlikely that congregatory bats qualify the Project area as Critical Habitat.
A.2.4 Unique assemblages of species that are associated with key evolutionary processes The Project area falls within the East Deccan Dry Evergreen Forests terrestrial ecoregion (Wikramanayake et al. 2002). This is an area of very low terrestrial endemism. From an aquatic perspective, the Project area falls within the Southeastern Ghats freshwater ecoregion, an area of low aquatic species endemism (Abell et al. 2008). Unique assemblages of species associated with key evolutionary processes thus do not qualify the Project area as Critical Habitat.
A.2.5 Areas having biodiversity of significant social, economic, or cultural importance to local communities (including ecosystem services) The IEE presents no specific information on ecosystem services (TNHD 2020). It is beyond the scope of this rapid assessment to collect additional information on ecosystem services, and then to assess which may qualify the project area as Critical Habitat.
A.2.6 Legally protected areas and international recognized areas The Project runs as close as 30 m to the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary. This is not in the official global database of protected areas (www.protectedplanet.net), but is very unlikely to represent a Category I or II protected area given the site is first and foremost an irrigation reservoir. The buffer zone or “Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ)” of the sanctuary is a uniform 0.5 km (TNHD 2020). As such, 1.85 km of the Project road runs through the sanctuary ESZ (TNHD 2020). IFC (2019) states that ‘…certain internationally recognized areas of high biodiversity value may be recognized as Critical Habitat and should be given special attention during assessments…’ including ‘Areas that meet the criteria of the IUCN’s Protected Areas Categories Ia, Ib and II…’. As this is very unlikely to be a Category I or II protected area, it is not intrinsically considered to represent Critical Habitat, unless it is of global conservation significance for biodiversity (Sections A.2.1-A.2.5). The internationally recognized Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary Important Bird Area (de facto also a Key Biodiversity Area) is supposed to align with the protected area boundary, and thus also adjoins the Project (BirdLife International 2020a). As discussed in Section A.2.3, this IBA is likely to now qualify as an IBA for Black-headed Ibis. As such, the Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary Important Bird Area qualifies the Project area as Critical Habitat.
A.2.7 Summary Based on available information during this rapid assessment, the Project Area of Analysis qualifies as Critical Habitat owing to the presence of Black-headed Ibis at globally significant levels, and the Vaduvoor Lake Bird Sanctuary Important Bird Area.
368
A.3 Assessment of Natural Habitat
The Project IEE clarifies that the Project RoW does not cross any forest areas (TNHD 2020) and that, within a 500 m buffer of the road, land use is 53% built-up areas, 24% agriculture/wet land and 23% dry land. Based on 2015-16 remote sensing imagery, NRSC (2019) shows the only significant land use/land cover in the Project area being built-up areas, agriculture and water bodies (mostly artificial reservoirs). Although there may be small patches of Natural Habitat in the Project area, the Project is thus largely or entirely situated within Modified Habitat.