To, Date 20.03.2018 the Member

Home , Pir Panjal Range, Yaripora

To, Date 20.03.2018 The Member Secretary State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing Paryavaran Bhavan, Gladeni, Transport Nagar, Narwal, Jammu Tawi

Subject: Regarding Environmental Clearance (EC) for River Bed Mining Project over an area of 9.32 ha at Village- Chilan Asthal, Tehsil – Kulgam, District-Kulgam, and State- J & K.

Reference:

1. The 08th meeting of the State Level Expert Appraisal Committee was convened on 17.02.2018 at the meeting hall of the office complex of the Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing at Gladeni, Jammu Tawi. The meeting was chaired by Shri S.C. Sharma, Chairman SEAC.

2. Proposal No.: SIA/JK/MIN/72518/2018

3. File No.: SEAC/2018/22 Respected Sir, With respect to the above reference, I am submitting herewith the reply documents raised the 08th meeting of the State Level Expert Appraisal Committee was convened on 17.02.2018 at the meeting hall of the office complex of the Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing at Gladeni, Jammu Tawi,(Item No. 07). I request you to issues in the Environmental Clearance at the earliest. Thanking you, Yours faithfully

Enclosure: 1) Geomorphology Report of the Entire River/ stream system (i.e. Nalla Veshav) 2) District Survey Report of Kulgam District. 3) Amendment Proposal Report with coordinates of minimum four points forming a rectangular polygon.

FORM – I, PRE-FEASIBILITY REPORT & ENVIRONMENTAL MANGEMENT PLAN FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE OF PROPOSED RIVER BED MINING PROJECT

VILLAGE – CHILLAN ASTHAL, TEHSIL –KULGAM DISTRICT – KULGAM STATE: JAMMU & KASHMIR (AREA-9.32 Ha)

PROJECT PROPONENT

M/s Usman Construcation Prop. Mr. Abdul Gani Lone R/o: Chawalgam District : Kulgam

Prepared By

Centre for Envotech and Management Consultancy Pvt.Ltd. Plot No-N5/305,IRC Village, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar - 751015

NABET Certificate No.-NABET/EIA//RA069/096

FORM-I

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

APPENDIX I FORM I (I) Basic Information S.No. Item Details 1. Name of the project River Bed Mining.

2. S. No. in the schedule 1 (a) mining of mineral 3. Proposed capacity /area /length Proposed capacity of Sand, Bajri & Boulder extraction /tonnage to be handled/command will be 57114 (MTPA), the area of the proposed mine is area/lease area/number of wells to be 9.32 ha. drilled 4. New/Expansion/Modernization New 5. Existing Capacity/Area etc. 9.32 ha 6. Category of Project i.e. ‘A’ or ‘B’ Category B2 7. Does it attract the general condition? No If yes, please specify. 8. Does it attract the specific condition? No If yes, please specify. 9. Location Latitude : 33°87'00.62"-33°38'02.60"N 33°37'58.21"-33°38'06.41"N Longitude : 74°58'04.52"-74°58'44.44"E 74°58'04.99"-74°58'46.59"E

Plot/Survey/Khasra No. 889/869 & 553/458

Village Chillan Asthal Tehsil Kulgam District Kulgam State Jammu & Kashmir 10. Nearest railway station/airport along Wanpoo Railway Station, approx. 40 Km. with distance in kms. Srinagar Airport, approx. 78 Km. 11. Nearest Town, city, District Nearest Town: Narsengpora, approx. 1.03 km in N Headquarters along with distance in direction. kms. Nearest District Headquarters: Kulgam, approx. 3.70 Km in NE direction. 12. Village Panchayats, Zilla Parishad, Village Panchayat- Chillan Asthal

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

Municipal Corporation, Local body Village- Chillan Asthals (complete postal addresses with District- Kulgam telephone nos. to be given) Jammu & Kashmir 13. Name of applicant M/s USMAN CONSTRUCATION Prop. Mr. Abdul Gani Lone 14. Registered Address R/o: Chalwalgam District – Kulgam, (J&K)

15. Address for correspondence: Name M/s USMAN CONSTRUCATION Prop. Mr. Abdul Gani Lone Designation (Owner/Partner/CEO) Owner Address R/o: Chalwalgam District – Kulgam, (J&K)

Pin Code 192231 E-mail --- Telephone No. 9419095321 Fax No. --- 16. Details of Alternative Sites examined, No Alternative Site. if any. Location of these sites should be shown on a toposheet. 17. Interlinked Projects No 18. Whether separate application of No interlinked project has been submitted? 19. If yes, date of submission Not Applicable 20. If no, reason Not Applicable

21. Whether the proposal involves approval/ clearance under: if yes, details of the same and their status to be given. (a)The forest (Conservation) act, No 1980?

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

(b) The wildlife (Protection) act, No 1972? (C) The C.R.Z Notification, 1991? No 22. Whether there is any Government Order/Policy relevant/relating to the No site? 23. Forest land involved (hectares) No Forest land is involved 24. Whether there is any litigation No pending against the project and /or land in which the project is propose to be set up? (a) Name of the Court (b) Case No. (c) Orders/directions of the Court, if any and its relevance with the proposed project. (II) Activity 1. Construction, operation or decommissioning of the Project involving actions, which will cause physical changes in the locality (topography, land use, changes in water bodies, etc.) S. No. Information/Checklist Yes/No Details thereof (with approximate confirmation quantities /rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 1.1 Permanent or temporary change in No The area is river bed and mined out area will land use, land cover or topography be replenished gradually during succeeding including increase in intensity of rainy season. Hence there will be no change land use (with respect to local land in land use, land cover or topography of the use plan) area. 1.2 Clearance of existing land, No The entire mining lease area being part of vegetation and buildings? river bed, there is no vegetation in the leased out area. Hence, there would be no clearance of existing land, vegetation and buildings. 1.3 Creation of new land uses? No The mining activity will be confined to the lease area i.e. within the flood plain of Nalla Vishu, so no new land use will be created.

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

1.4 Pre-construction investigations e.g. No -- bore houses, soil testing? 1.5 Construction works? No The work relates to only extraction of sand, bajri & Boulder from stream bed predominantly restricted to lean discharge period of the nalla. No construction work is required for the proposed activity except temporary installation of office cum labour rest shelter. 1.6 Demolition works? No Since no construction work is involved, there will not be any demolition either. 1.7 Temporary sites used for No Local people will be hired for mining construction works or housing of activities; hence no temporary sites for construction workers? housing will be required. 1.8 Above ground buildings, structures No The work involves excavation of sand, bajri or earthworks including linear & Boulder from river bed. structures, cut and fill or excavations 1.9 Underground works including No There will not be any underground mining or mining or tunneling? tunneling. 1.10 Reclamation works? No The minerals extracted during mining process will be replenished naturally during the subsequent rainy season. Hence no reclamation works are proposed 1.11 Dredging? No The work involves extraction of Sand, Bajri & Boulder from dry river bed and as such no dredging will be done. 1.12 Offshore structures? No -- 1.13 Production and manufacturing No Only excavation of Sand, Bajri & Boulder processes? from river bed. No other production or manufacturing process is involved. 1.14 Facilities for storage of goods or No Minerals extracted will be loaded directly into materials? tractors-trolleys for transportation. Hence no storage facility will be required. 1.15 Facilities for treatment or disposal of Yes There shall be no generation of solid or liquid

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

solid waste or liquid effluents? waste; hence no treatment or disposal of wastes is envisaged. 1.16 Facilities for long term housing of No Only local villagers from nearby villages will operational workers? be employed for the mining activity. Thus no

housing facility is proposed.

1.17 New road, rail or sea traffic during Yes There will be an increase in traffic because of construction or operation few tractor-trolleys for transportation of minerals. 1.18 New road, rail, air waterborne or No There is already an approach road connecting other transport infrastructure the mine lease area to the highway. No new including new or altered routes and road, rail or other transport infrastructure is stations, ports, airports etc? envisaged. 1.19 Closure or diversion of existing No There would be no closure or diversion of transport routes or infrastructure existing routes, which would change the leading to changes in traffic traffic movements. movements? 1.20 New or diverted transmission lines No As there will be no consumption of electricity or pipelines? or large scale water requirement therefore no transmission lines or pipelines are involved. 1.21 Impoundment, damming, culverting, No No impoundment, damming, culverting, realignment or other changes to the realignment or other changes to the hydrology hydrology of watercourses or of watercourses or aquifers is envisaged. aquifers? 1.22 Stream crossings? No No stream crossings are involved. 1.23 Abstraction or transfers of water Yes Total Water Requirement: 0.8KLD from ground or surface waters? Domestic: 0.2 KLD Dust Suppression: 0.4 KLD Plantation: 0.2 KLD 1.24 Changes in water bodies or the land No There will be no change in the land surface surface affecting drainage or run- affecting drainage or run-off as mining will be off? limited within the river bed. 1.25 Transport of personnel or materials Yes In the operation phase Sand, Bajri & Boulder for construction, operation or will be excavated manually. These will be decommissioning? loaded directly into tractor-trolley and

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

transported to local markets. 1.26 Long-term dismantling or Yes Plantation will be carried out along the barren decommissioning or restoration banks of the Nalla Vishu in consultation with works? the local authorities/ Govt. body. However no dismantling or decommissioning work is required. 1.27 Ongoing activity during No Being simple manual excavation process no decommissioning which could have decommissioning would be there which could an impact on the environment? have any impact on environment. 1.28 Influx of people to an area in either No Only local people will be deployed to carry temporarily or permanently? out minerals extraction. So no influx of people will be seen. 1.29 Introduction of alien species? No No such introduction of alien species is foreseen. 1.30 Loss of native species or genetic No No loss of native species or genetic diversity diversity? is expected 1.31 Any other actions? No -- 2. Use of Natural resources for construction or operation of the Project (such as land, water, materials or energy, especially any resources which are non-renewable or in short supply): S. No. Information/checklist Yes/No Details thereof (with approximate confirmation quantities /rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 2.1 Land especially undeveloped or No The activity will be done in the proposed mine agricultural land (ha) lease area which is a river bed. No agricultural land is involved. 2.2 Water (expected source & Yes Total water requirement is about 0.8 KLD. competing users) unit: KLD This water will be supplied from available sources through tankers. 2.3 Minerals (MT) No No minerals are required for execution of this project. 2.4 Construction material – stone, No No construction material is required for this aggregates, sand / soil (expected project. On the other hand, construction source – MT) material will be produced. 2.5 Forests and timber (source – MT) No Not required for this project.

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

2.6 Energy including electricity and No Mining operations will be manual requiring no fuels (source, competing users) Unit: electrical energy. However, for transportation fuel (MT), energy (MW) of minerals excavated, fuel will be consumed. 2.7 Any other natural resources (use No No other natural resources will be used. appropriate standard units)

3. Use, storage, transport, handling or production of substances or materials, which could be harmful to human health or the environment or raise concerns about actual or perceived risks to human health. S.No. Information/Checklist Yes/No Details thereof (with approximate confirmation quantities/rates, wherever possible) with source of information data. 3.1 Use of substances or materials, No This project operation will not involve use of which are hazardous (as per MSIHC any materials, hazardous to human health or rules) to human health or the environment. environment (flora, fauna, and Water supplies) 3.2 Changes in occurrence of disease or No No change in occurrence of diseases, due to affect disease vectors (e.g. insect or manual mining of sand, bajri & Boulder. water borne diseases) However first aid facility shall be provided to the engaged staff in case of any eventuality. 3.3 Affect the welfare of people e.g. by No There will be no adverse affect on welfare of changing living conditions? the people. On the other hand, the project will improve the living conditions of the people due to earnings from the mining work. 3.4 Vulnerable groups of people who No This project will not affect the vulnerable could be affected by the project e.g. groups of people. hospital patients, children, the

elderly etc.

3.5 Any other causes No Transportation is one of the major activities during the project. Accidents may occur, which could be avoided by taking due care and precautions. 4. Production of solid wastes during construction or operation or decommissioning (MT/month)

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

S.No. Information/Checklist Yes/No Details thereof (with approximate confirmation quantities/rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 4.1 Spoil, overburden or mine wastes Yes The mining operation in the fresh river bed material shall not generate any overburden or mine wastes. 4.2 Municipal waste (domestic and or Yes Very insignificant quantity of domestic waste commercial wastes) is expected to be generated which will be cleared everyday by the workers. 4.3 Hazardous wastes (as per Hazardous No No hazardous wastes are envisaged. Waste Management Rules) 4.4 Other industrial process wastes No No industrial process waste is envisaged. 4.5 Surplus product No No surplus products are expected. 4.6 Sewage sludge or other sludge from No No effluent treatment involved. effluent treatment 4.7 Construction or demolition wastes No No construction or demolition wastes are expected. 4.8 Redundant machinery or equipment No No redundant machinery or equipment is involved. 4.9 Contaminated soils or other No No contaminated soils are generated. materials 4.10 Agricultural wastes No No agricultural wastes are produced. 4.11 Other solid wastes No No other solid wastes are generated. 5. Release of pollutants or any hazardous, toxic or noxious substances to air (Kg/hr) S.No. Information/Checklist Yes/No Details thereof (with approximate confirmation quantities/rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 5.1 Emissions from combustion of fossil Yes There will be some emissions due to fuels from stationary or mobile combustion of fuel from vehicles used for sources transportation of minerals. 5.2 Emissions from production No No emission is expected from the production processes process, as the entire process will be done manually.

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

5.3 Emissions from materials handling Yes Some dust is likely to be emitted during including storage or transport transportation of minerals. However adequate measures will be taken to suppress the dust and preventing it to become airborne. 5.4 Emissions from construction No No construction will be done at the mining activities including plant and site. Hence, no emissions are anticipated. equipment 5.5 Dust or odors from handling of Yes Dust emission is expected during handling of materials including construction minerals i.e. during loading of minerals. materials, sewage and waste 5.6 Emissions from incineration of No There are no waste generated which require waste incineration. 5.7 Emissions from burning of waste in No No burning of waste is done, hence no open air (e.g. slash materials, emission is expected. construction debris) 5.8 Emissions from any other sources No -- 6. Generation of Noise and Vibration, and Emissions of Light and Heat: S.No. Information/Checklist Yes/No Details thereof (with approximate confirmation quantities/rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 6.1 From operation of equipment e.g. No Mining will be done manually. So no noise engines, ventilation plant, crushers will be generated. 6.2 From industrial or similar processes No -- 6.3 From construction or demolition No No construction or demolition work is proposed. 6.4 From blasting or piling No Blasting and piling is not proposed for the mining process 6.5 From construction or operational Yes Some noise will be generated from vehicular traffic movement during transportation of minerals. 6.6 From lighting or cooling systems No Mining will be carried during day time and in open area. Thus there is no need for lighting and cooling systems. 6.7 From any other sources No -- 7. Risks of contamination of land or water from release of pollutants into ground or into sewers, surface waters, groundwater, coastal waters or the sea: 9

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

S. No. Information/Checklist Yes/No Details thereof (with approximate confirmation quantities/rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 7.1 From handling, storage, use or No Since no hazardous material will be used or spillage of hazardous materials produced at the site, no risk of contamination of land or water envisaged. 7.2 From discharge of sewage or other No No discharge of sewage or other effluents will effluents to water or the land be there. (expected mode and place of discharge) 7.3 By deposition of pollutants emitted No Adequate measures to suppress dust and not to to air into the land or into water allow dust to become airborne are provided. 7.4 From any other sources No Not envisaged 7.5 Is there a risk of long term build up No Scraping of accumulated dust build-up on road of pollutants in the environment will be done frequently to keep the road in from these sources? good order, thus avoiding any risk to environment. 8. Risk of accidents during construction or operation of the Project, which could affect human health or the environment S. No. Information/Checklist Yes/No Details thereof (with approximate confirmation quantities/rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 8.1 From explosions, spillages, fires etc No No hazardous substance will be used or from storage, handling, use or produced during the proposed mining production of hazardous substances operations. 8.2 From any other causes Yes Risk of accidents are expected: 1. During transportation. 2. During loading of minerals into tractor trolleys. Accidents can be avoided by taking due care and precautions. 8.3 Could the project be affected by Yes The mine lease area lies in Seismic Zone IV natural disasters causing which is prone to earthquakes. However there environmental damage (e.g. floods, are no built in structures within the lease area earthquakes, landslides, cloudburst which would get affected by mining. Floods

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

etc)? are also anticipated during monsoon season. However mining operation shall be concentrated mostly during lean periods. 9. Factors which should be considered (such as consequential development) which could lead to environmental effects or the potential for cumulative impacts with other existing or planned activities in the locality. S. No. Information/Checklist confirmation Yes/No Details thereof (with approximate quantities/rates, wherever possible) with source of information data 9.1 Lead to development of supporting Yes With improvement in availability of facilities ancillary development or employment living standard of the people development stimulated by the project will raise which itself may lead to building which could have impact on the activity. These are the signs of positive environment e.g.: impacts. • Supporting infrastructure (roads, power supply, waste or waste water treatment, etc.) • Housing development • Extractive industries • Supply industries • Other 9.2 Lead to after-use of the site, which No The site will not be used for any other could have an impact on the purpose which will have an impact on the environment. environment. 9.3 Set a precedent for later developments Yes Proposed mining activity can set a precedent for increase in infrastructure developmental activity. 9.4 Have cumulative effects due to Yes There are similar mining projects located proximity to other existing or planned nearby. There is likelihood of cumulative projects with similar effects effect due to transportation of minerals. (III) Environmental Sensitivity S.No. Areas Name/ Aerial distance (within Identity 10 km.) Proposed project location boundary 1 Areas protected under international Nil - 11

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

conventions, national or local legislation for their ecological, landscape, cultural or other related value 2 Areas which are important or sensitive Nalla Vishu Project Site lies on this for ecological reasons - Wetlands, location. watercourses or other water bodies, coastal zone, biospheres, mountains, forests. 3 Areas used by protected, important or No important or sensitive -- sensitive species of flora or fauna for breeding place of fauna breeding, nesting, foraging, resting, exists. over wintering, migration. 4 Inland, coastal, marine or underground Nil -- waters 5 State, National boundaries Nil -- 6 Routes or facilities used by the public National Highway-1A About 14.00 km in E for access to recreation or other direction. tourist, pilgrim areas 7 Defence installations Yes Army Camp at village Ashmuji at a distance of 9.24 kms in NE direction. 8 Densely populated or built-up area Kulgam About 3.6 km in NE direction. 9 Areas occupied by sensitive man-made Primary and secondary About 3.6 km in NE land uses (hospitals, schools, places school are available at direction of worship, community faci Kulgam lities) District Hospital Kulgam About 3.6 km in SW direction. Syed Simnania Jamia About 3.65 km in NE Masjid direction.

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

10 Areas containing important, high Nil -- quality or scarce resources (ground water resources, surface resources, forestry, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, minerals) 11 Areas already subjected to pollution or Nil -- environmental damage. (those where existing legal environmental standards are exceeded)

12 Areas susceptible to natural hazard Nil -- which could cause the project to present environmental problems (earthquakes, subsidence, landslides, erosion, flooding or extreme or adverse climatic conditions)

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

Date: 18.01.2018 Place: Kulgam

Signature of the applicant

Authorized Signatory (M/s USMAN CONSTRUCATION)

NOTE: 1. The Projects involving clearance under Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 1991 shall submit with the application a C.R.Z map duly demarcated by one of the authorized agencies, showing the project activities, w.r.t. C.R.Z. and the recommendations of the state Coastal Zone management Authority. Simultaneous action shall also be taken to obtain the requisite clearance under the provisions of the C.R.Z. Notification, 1991 for the activities to be located in the CRZ. 2. The projects to be located within 10 km of the National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Migratory Corridors of Wild Animals, the project proponent shall submit the map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden showing these features vis-à-vis the project location and the recommendations or comments of the Chief Wildlife Warden thereon.”

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) FORM 1 Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

3. All correspondence with the Ministry of Environment & Forests including submission of application for TOR/ Environmental Clearance, subsequent clarifications, as may be required from time to time, participation in the EAC Meeting on behalf of the project proponent shall be made by the authorized signatory only. The authorized signatory should also submit a document in support of his claim of being an authorized signatory for the specific project”

PRE- FEASIBILITY REPORT

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.0 Introduction

River Bed Mining Project is situated at Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil- Kulgam, District- Kulgam, and State- J & K over an area of 9.32 ha for 5 year Lease Period in the favor of Project Proponent M/s Usman Construcation Prop. Mr. Abdul Gani Lone. The proposed rate of production is 57114 (MTPA) of Boulder, Bajri & Sand, The estimated project cost is Rs. 23 lakh. This mining project falls under Category “B2” Project or activity 1(a) as per EIA Notifications 15th Jan, 2016 and it is subsequent amendment. 1.1 Salient features of the project. Project Name River Bed Mining Village : Chillan Asthal Location of mine District : Kulgam State : Jammu & Kashmir Latitude: 33°87'00.62"-33°38'02.60"N Latitude 33°37'58.21"-33°38'06.41"N Longitude : 74°58'04.52"-74°58'44.44"E Longitude 74°58'04.99"-74°58'46.59"E Toposheet number 43 K/14 Minerals of mine Sand, Bajri & Boulder

Total Mineable reserves 2,85,568.8 MT

Life of mine 5 years Proposed production of mine 57114 MTPA Method of mining Opencast Semi Mechanized No of working days 300 days Total Water Requirement: 0.8KLD Domestic: 0.2 KLD Water demand Dust Suppression: 0.4 KLD Plantation : 0.2 KLD Sources of water PHED Supply Man power 16

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

Nearest railway station Wanpoo Railway Station, approx. 40 Km. Nearest airport Srinagar Airport, approx. 78 Km. Seismic zone Zone IV

2. INTRODUCTION OF THE PROJECT/ BACKGROUND INFORMATION 2.1 Identification of Project and Project Proponent

The existing project has been proposed for mining of 57114 (MTPA) of Boulder, Bajri & Sand by Opencast Semi Mechanized method. The mine lease area is 9.32 ha. Water requirement for the proposed project for drinking use, dust suppression and other use will be 0.8 KLD, which will be taken from nearby available sources.

2.3 Need for the Project and Its Importance to the Country or Region

The project involves collection of river bed material. This is very essential to prevent widening of the riverbed due to the deposition of sediments which if not mined out will cause flooding, damage to the adjoining areas, destruction of life and property. This can only be prevented by maintaining the existing width and course of the river. If riverbed minerals are not mined, the widening of river bed will result in excessive erosion; causing further damage to flora, agricultural land and settlements situated in close proximity. In addition to this the production of minerals will benefit the State in the form of Royalty; the project will generate direct and indirect employment opportunities for the people in nearby villages. Also the mine management will initiate various socio-economic developments in nearby village from time to time to improve the socio- economic status in the area.

2.4 Demands-Supply Gap 15

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

Building huge infrastructure as being envisaged by Government of India particularly in road and housing sector requires basic building raw materials. Thus the demand for sand, bajri & Boulder is ever growing with the growth of the infrastructure sector in our country. The requirement for the mineral is always high in the nearby cities and towns. Therefore there is always a good demand of the mineral in the domestic market. 2.5 Imports vs. Indigenous Production The demand in the domestic market is high for sand, bajri & Boulder. Mineral is available in abundant quantity in allotted area and can be extracted indigenously.

2.6 Export Possibility There is no proposal to export the mineral as the minerals extracted cater the indigenous demand and the development is a never ending process.

2.7 Domestic/ Export Markets DOMESTIC MARKET There is always an ever increasing demand of these minerals in the domestic market. EXPORT MARKET The proposed mining activity is for indigenous consumption only for real state, road making etc.

2.8 Employment Generation The proposed mining activity will provide employment to about 16 workers. The workers will be hired mostly from the nearby villages.

3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 3.1 Type of Project Including Interlinked and Interdependent Projects, If Any. The mine is over an area of 9.32 ha. The proposed production is 57114 (MTPA). This is an independent mining project and there are no interlinked projects involved. The project falls under Category “B2” Project or activity 1(a) as per EIA Notifications and it is subsequent amendment. 3.2 Location

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

The mining lease area is located at Khasra No. 889/869 &553/458, Village- Chillan Asthal, Thana- Kulgam, District- Kulgam and State – Jammu & Kashmir. The mining lease area falls in Survey of India Toposheet is 43K/14.

Latitude: 33°37'58.21"-33°38'06.41"N Longitude : 74°58'04.52"-74°58'46.59"E Fig 1: Location map of proposed project site

Project Site

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

3.3 Details of Alternate Sites

Mining is site specific project.

3.4 Size or magnitude of operation River Bed Mining Project is situated at Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil- Kulgam, District- Kulgam, and State- J & K over an area of 9.32 ha for 5 year Lease Period in the favor of Project Proponent M/s Usman Construcation Prop. Mr. Abdul Gani Lone. The proposed rate of production is 57114 (MTPA) of Boulder, Bajri & Sand, The estimated project cost is Rs. 23 lakh.

3.5 PROJECT DESCRIPTION WITH PROCESS DETAILS

The project is for River Bed material with an area of 9.32 hectare which represents the flood plain of Nalla Vishu and is a state land as per Govt. revenue records. The proposed mining will be carried out by open cast semi- mechanized method without resorting to drilling and blasting. The mining shall be restrained upto depth of 2 meter above the water regimes without disturbing the gradient and course of the nalla. The river bed material so excavated shall be transported by trucks through approach roads which finally merge with tar roads for final destinations. All the adequate precautions as per provision of Mines Act 1952 will be accounted. Safety zones with respect to bridge, hydraulic points and or/embankment as prescribed by the Department of Geology and Mining should be strictly adhered to. The excavated area will be replenished to its original topography in the routine weathering cycle of the nalla. As such no reclamation plan is envisaged except plantation on the barren nalla banks.

3.6 Raw Material Required Along With Estimated Quantity, Likely Source, Marketing Area of Final Product/S, Mode of Transport of Raw Material and Finished Product

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

No raw material will be required in the proposed project. The operation involves the extraction of sand, bajri and boulder in its existing form and transported to the end users/ market.

3.7 Resource Optimization/ Recycling and Reuse Minerals are generally depleting asset once mined; but minerals like sand, bajri and boulder will be replenished naturally. Thus a scientific approach will be taken up for extraction of mineral with systematic method.

3.8 Availability of Water Its Source, Energy/ Power Requirement and Source 3.8.1 Water Requirement Water required is 0.8 KLD. It is proposed to obtain water for drinking from nearby source.

Total Water Requirement (0.80 KLD)

Dust Suppression Drinking &Domestic Plantation (0.4 KLD) (0.2 KLD) (0.2 KLD)

3.8.2 POWER All the activities will be carried out in a manual manner. The material will be extracted and loaded directly into tractors by the workers themselves. The operation will be done only from sun rise to sun set. So there is no power requirement for the mining activity.

3.9.1 QUANTITY OF WASTES TO BE GENERATED (LIQUID AND SOLID) AND SCHEME FOR THEIR MANAGEMENT/ DISPOSAL 3.9.1 Solid Waste Generation & its Disposal No solid waste shall be generated in the current mining project. Hence disposal of waste is not envisaged. 3.9.2 Liquid Effluent Not applicable

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

4. SITE ANALYSIS 4.1 Connectivity

Nearest railway station- Wanpoo Railway Station, approx. 40 Km.

Nearest airport- Srinagar Airport, approx. 78 Km.

Naition Highway- NH-1A is about 14.00 km in E direction from the project site.

4.2 LANDFORM, LANDUSE AND LAND OWNERSHIP LANDFORM

The area is almost flat with a moderate slope.

4.3 TOPOGRAPHY:

The applied area is a part of flood plain of Nalla Vishu with almost flat topography. The highest contour in the lease area is 1800 mRL and the lowest contour is 1779 mRL. Vishu Nalla. The general slope of the area is towards northeast.

4.4 4.4 EXISTING LAND USE PATTERN AND SHORTEST DISTANCES FROM FORESTS, WATER BODIES, ECO-SENSITIVE AREAS, ETC. The area applied over an area of 9.32 ha for River Bed material is located on flood plain of nalla Vishu. No forest and agricultural land is involved in the mining Lease area. There is no National Park/ Wild Life Sanctuary/Eco sensitive Zone/CRZ within 15 KM radius of the Mining Lease area. No big water reservoir exists within 10.0 km of lease area. The ground water level is between 35 to 45 feet deep.

4.5 Existing Infrastructure No existing infrastructure within lease area.

4.6 Soil Classification

No significant top soil is observed in mining site. The project is located on the flood plain of nalla Vishu. However, the soil found in the vicinity of study area includes alluvial soil and Upper Karewa consisting of Sand, clay, marl, conglomerate and loess sediments.

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

4.7 Social Infrastructure The following rural activities are being proposed to be done in the region under Rural Development Programme.  Rural Health service  Educational Development Programme  Self-employment, resource development  Agricultural development & environmental protection

5 PLANNING BRIEF 5.1 Planning Concept Mining will be done as per the guidelines of Jammu & Kashmir Minor Mineral Concession, Storage Transportation of Minerals and Illegal Mining Rules, 2016 and MOEF & CC Gazette Notification dated 15th Jan, 2016.

5.2 Population projection The project will employ most of the workers from nearby villages except for supervisory staff. Thus there will no increase in population due to the project. However, few people from other area may migrate in this area for employment directly and indirectly for business opportunities. 5.3 Land use planning (Break up along with green belt, etc.)

Mining will be done in a single bench of 2 metre along the profile of the nalla. The area so excavated will get filled up due to sediment inflow during post melting season. Plantation will also be carried along the river banks. This will strengthen the river banks and control dust emission from the mine lease area. 5.4 Assessment of Infrastructure Demand (Physical & Social)

Infrastructure like evacuation road, site services will only be required.

5.5 Amenities/Facilities The following facilities/amenities will be extended by the mine management:  Direct and indirect Employment, most of which most will be from nearby villages. 21

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

 Arrangements for safe and healthy working conditions  Provision of Drinking water.  First-Aid facilities and Health check-up camps for the workers.  Conducting medical camps for workers and nearby villagers at regular interval. 6. Proposed Infrastructure 6.1 Industrial Area (Processing Area) No infrastructure is proposed. 6.2 Residential Area (Non Processing Area) As local workers from nearby areas will be engaged for the mining activity, no residential area/ housing is proposed. 6.3 Green Belt Plantation shall be developed on the barren patches of nalla banks with proper care and maintenance.

6.4 Social Infrastructure  Road facility (existing roads will be maintained regularly)  Employment opportunity  Medical camps  Social awareness camps,  Donations to schools  Secondary employment opportunities 6.5 Connectivity NH-1A is about 14.00 km in E direction from the project site 6.6 Drinking Water Management Water for drinking is required to be 0.8 KLD. It is proposed to obtain water from nearby sources (PHED supply). 6.7 Sewerage System Domestic waste water will be treated into septic tank followed by soak pit

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

6.8 Industrial Waste Management Not applicable

6.9 Solid Waste management No solid waste generation is expected from the mining operations.

6.10 Power Requirement & Supply/Source The operation will be done only during the day light; hence there is no power requirement for the project at site.

7 REHABILITATION AND RESETTLEMENT (R&R) PLAN Not Applicable as no person or family will be up rooted, needing any resettlement of rehabilitation.

8 PROJECT SCHEDULE & COST ESTIMATES 8.1 Likely Date of Start of Construction and Likely Date of Completion No construction activities are proposed. The mining activity will commence only after receiving environmental clearance and other statutory clearance.

8.2 Estimated Project Cost Along With Analysis In Terms of Economic Viability of the Project

Initial cost of the project has been estimated as 23 Lakh.

S.No Description Cost (Lakhs) 1. Action cost 18.58 2 Cost of infrastructure vehicles manpower site etc. 0.77 3. Labour cost 1.92 4. Site amenities 0.57 5. Environmental protection 0.67 6. miscellaneous 0.49 Total 23

9.0 ANALYSIS OF PROPOSAL (FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS)

Riverbed Mining Project (M.L. Area-9.32 Ha.) PFR Block No-13 Village- Chillan Asthal, Tehsil & District - Kulgam, J&K by M/s. USMAN CONSTRUCATION

The proposed mining activity shall have minimum environmental impacts with utmost concern for preservation of geomorphological and hydrological character of the nalla. The proposed mine will bring economical benefits to the state by the way of Royalty for mineral and to the local people by way of direct and secondary employment opportunities. The mining activities as proposed are the backbone of all construction and infrastructure projects as the raw material for construction is available only from such mining. The river bed material is in high demand at the local market for real estate industry.

The project will bring about socio-economic improvement of the area and will prove beneficial to the area. Hence it is recommended that that this project may kindly be considered for Environmental Clearance at an earliest.

*******

1. Introduction:

With reference to the gazette notification dated 15th January 2016, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the District Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (DEIAA) and District Level Environment Appraisal Committee (DEAC) have been constituted by the Central Government for grant of environmental clearance for Category ‘B2’ Projects for mining of minor minerals, for all the Districts in the country (hereinafter referred to as Authority for the Districts) vide S.O. 190(E) dt;20-01-2016 comprising of the following members, namely:— 1. District Magistrate or District Collector of the District —Chairperson 2. Senior most Divisional Forest Officer in the District —Member 3. An expert member to be nominated by the Divisional Commissioner or Chief Conservator of the Forest —Member 4. Sub-Divisional Magistrate or Sub-Divisional Officer of the District headquarter —Member Secretary The Authority for the Districts shall base its decision on the recommendations of the District Level Expert Appraisal Committee constituted under paragraph 5 of this notification. For the purposes of assisting the Authority for the Districts, the Central Government hereby constitutes the District Level Expert Appraisal Committee for all the Districts of the country (hereinafter referred to as DEAC for the District) comprising of the following members, namely:- 1. Senior most Executive Engineer, Irrigation Department —Chairperson 2. Senior most Sub-Divisional Officer (Forest) —Member 3. A representative of Remote Sensing Department or Geology Department or State Ground Water Department to be nominated by the District Magistrate or District Collector —Member 4. Occupational health expert or Medical Officer to be nominated by the District Magistrate or District Collector —Member 5. Engineer from Zila Parishad —Member 6. A representative of State Pollution Control Board or Committee —Member 7. An expert to be nominated by the Divisional Commissioner or Chief Conservator of Forest —Member 8. An expert to be nominated by the Divisional Commissioner or Chief Conservator of Forest —Member 9. An expert to be nominated by the Divisional Commissioner or Chief Conservator of Forest —Member 10. Senior most Assistant Engineer, Public Works Department —Member 11. Assistant Director or Deputy Director or District Mines Officer or Geologist in the District in that order —Member Secretary The DEIAA and DEAC will scrutinize and recommend the prior environmental clearance of ministry of minor minerals on the basis of District Survey Report. The main purpose of preparation of District Survey Report is to identify the mineral resources and mining activities along with other relevant data of District. This report contains details of Leases, Sand mining and

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District Survey Report 2017 other mining operations in the District and Revenue which comes from minerals in the District. This report shall be updated every five years.

This District Survey report contains mainly Geology, Mineral wealth, details of rivers, details of Leases and Mining activity in the District along with Sand mining/River bed mining and revenue generated from the minerals. This report also contains details of Forest, Rivers, Soil, Agriculture, Road, Transportation, climate etc.

Figure 1: Showing location Map of the District Kulgam

The present document is the District survey report for the District Kulgam of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. District Kulgam is one of the newly created eight Districts of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The District came into existence after being carved out from the erstwhile District Anantnag and became functionally separate administrative region on 2nd April, 2007.

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The District headquarter Kulgam is situated towards the southeast of Srinagar; the summer capital of the State of Jammu and Kashmir at a distance of about 68 kms and about 17 Kms south of Anantnag. Kulgam falls within the geographical coordinates 33°27'59.32"N to 33°49'44.31"N and 74°30'52.45"E to 75°10'40.83"E. It has an average elevation of 2950 meters above mean sea level.

Nalla Veshav which drains most of the northern face of Pir Panjal is the main left bank tributary of River Jhelum and traverses through District Kulgam. Before confluence of Veshev with the Jhelum it gets broken off into a number of channels providing drinking water facilities and irrigation to huge tracts of the land in the District.

The District Kulgam is nestled in the lap of Pir Panjal Ranges and overlook the left bank of Nalla Veshaw has come up along a sloppy Karewa from Larow to Chawalgam. District Kulgam has road connectivity with its neighboring Districts like Shopian, Pulwama, Anantnag and Ramban etc. and Towns, besides being linked with far flung areas of the District by a fair weather road network.

Aharbal Waterfall is the most famous tourist spot in District Kulgam which attracts thousands of national and international tourists every year. Kulgam is known as the rice bowl of the valley of Kashmir and is also famous for a variety of fruits especially apples. The location map of the District Kulgam is shown in the Figure 1.

District Kulgam is rich in natural vegetation and forests with extensive pastures on its lower slopes. Almost whole of the District Kulgam has a network of irrigation canals. The total forest in the District is 325 Sq Kms.

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2. Overview of Mining Activity:

District Kulgam is situated in the southeast of the Kashmir valley on the northern flanks of the Pir Panjal Mountain Range. There are no established major mineral deposits of economic significance in the District. However, the District is blessed with abundant deposits of Nalla borne minor mineral resources. The District is wholly drained by the Nalla Veshav and its tributaries. It is a perennial Nalla which is responsible for the deposition of all the minor minerals in the District. Mainly three types of Minor Minerals namely sand, gravel and boulders are presently mined in the District particularly along the Nalla bed besides clay mining which takes place on the Plio- Pleistocene fluvioglacial kerewa deposits and recent alluvium deposits for construction, filling and brick making purposes. These mineral resources are very important source of employment in the district, besides being of great proponents of infrastructure development and socio-economic up- liftment. Moreover, the mineral deposits bring huge amount of revenue to the state exchequer in shape of royalty.

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3. Details of the revenue received in last four years:

The Table 1 summarizes the revenue received in INR from the minor minerals in the District Kulgam for the last four years and the same is depicted in the Figure 2.

Table 1: Showing Revenue Received in Last Four Years

S. No. 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 1 4969653 2763368 7403558 4491410

Figure 2: Showing Graphical Representation of the Royalty Received During Last Four Years

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4. Details of the Minor Minerals Produced in the Last Four Years:

A variety of minor minerals have been mined from the Nalla Veshav, besides the mining of brick clay from the Karewas and alluvium deposits of the District. The minerals produced along with their quantities are shown in the Table 2. The quantity produced during the last four years is shown graphically in Figure 3.

Table 2: Showing Minor Minerals Produced in the Last Four Years

Year → 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 S. No. Material↓ 1 Nalla Boulder 40408 45715 61531 340

2 Nalla Muck 132627 41746 204703 64443 3 Crusher Boulder 47500 32250 28000 117

4 Crusher Bajri 0 0 0 70

5 Nalla Bajri 54 0 0 0

6 Sand 22705 11710 12686 219

7 Clay 29739 28583 187382 79653

8 Brick Earth 76500 45496 71038 56000

Figure 3: Showing Graphical Representation Minerals Produced During Last Four Years

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4.1 Proposed Minor Mineral Blocks:

In the Table 3 Proposed Minor Mineral Blocks of District Kulgam are presented for Mineral concession and accordingly for the environmental clearance from the authorized departments.

Table 3: Showing Proposed Minor Mineral Blocks

S.No. Name of the Block Mineral Nalla/River Area (Ha)

01. Block-KL/V/A, Adibal Galwanpora Link road, Downstream 9.1

02. Block-KL/V/B, Adibal Galwanpora Link road, Downstream 9.13

03. Block-KL/V/C, Nehama Bridge Upstream 8.41

04. Block-KL/V/D, Nehama Bridge Upstream 4.22

05. Block-KL/V/E, Nehama Bridge Downstream 4.31 06. Block-KL/V/F, Nehama Bridge Downstream 9.14

07. Block-KL/V/G, Ching Adigan Bridge, Upstream 8.91

08. Block-KL/V/H, Ching Adigan Bridge, Upstream 4.09 09. Block-KL/V/I, Ching Adigan Bridge, Downstream 4.31 10. Block-KL/V/J, Ching Adigan Bridge, Downstream 8.84

11. Block-KL/V/K, Mirhama Upstream 9.21

12. Block-KL/V/L, Mirhama, Downstream 4.46

13. Block-KL/V/M, Chillan Asthal Bridge, Upstream 9.32 Muck

14. Block-KL/V/N, Chillan Asthal Bridge, Upstream 4.26

15. Block-KL/V/O, Chillan Asthal Bridge, Downstream Veshav 4.19

16. Block-KL/V/P, Kulgam Bridge, Upstream Nalla 4.55 17. Block-KL/V/Q, Kulgam Bridge, Upstream 4.08

18. Block-KL/V/R, Kulgam Bridge, Downstream 4.09 19. Block-KL/V/S, Kulgam Bridge, Downstream 9.52

20. Block-KL/V/T, Brazloo Bridge Upstream 9.09 21. Block-KL/V/U, Brazloo Bridge Upstream 4.15 22. Block-KL/V/V, Brazloo Bridge Downstream 4.27 23. Block-KL/V/W, Ashmuji Bridge Upstream 9.09 24. Block-KL/V/X, Ashmuji Bridge Upstream 4.33

25. Block-KL/V/Y, Ashmuji Bridge Downstream 4.6

26. Block-KL/V/Z, Ashmuji Bridge, Downstream 4.24 27. Block-KL/V/A1, Mah Village, Upstream 9.21

28. Block-KL/V/A2, Mah Village, Downstream 8.89 29. Block-KL/V/A3, Matalhama, up and Downstream 2.74 30. Block-KL/VE/A, Chowgam Bridge, Downstream Bajri/Sand Vethvethri 3.27

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District Survey Report 2017

5. Process of Deposition of Sediments in the Nalla:

Sediment is a naturally occurring material that is broken down by processes of weathering and erosion, and is subsequently transported by the action of wind, water and/or by the force of gravity acting on the particles. Sediment includes a variety of material size ranging from clay to big boulders. River represents one of the most important geological agents that change the landscape of the earth by its geomorphogical processes i.e. weathering, transportation and deposition of the sediments. Sediments are most often transported by water. Sediment is transported based on the strength of the flow that carries it and its own size, volume, density, and shape. Stronger flows will increase the lift and drag on the particle, causing it to rise, while larger or denser particles will be more likely to fall through the flow. If the upwards velocity of the sediment is approximately equal to the settling velocity, sediment will be transported downstream entirely as suspended load. If the upwards velocity is much less than the settling velocity, but still high enough for the sediment to move, it will move along the bed as bed load by rolling, sliding, and saltating (jumping up into the flow, being transported a short distance then settling again). If the upwards velocity is higher than the settling velocity, the sediment will be transported high in the flow as wash load. As there are generally a Range of different particle sizes in the flow, it is common for material of different sizes to move through all mechanisms of the flow for given stream conditions.

Figure 4: Showing the Drainage Map of Kulgam District

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The deposition of sediments in a Nalla bed is more pronounced during rainy season although the magnitude of deposition varies from stream to stream depending upon numbers of factors such as catchment lithology, discharge, stream profile and geomorphology of the stream course and the stage in which the stream flows. If the deposition of sediments during a flood season/ rainy season is high under the given conditions it has been observed that replenishment takes place in that season only and the whole material excavated during the previous mining season gets stocked up with new harvest of minerals.

In order to calculate the mineral deposits in the stream beds, the mineral constituents have been categorized as, sand, bajri and boulder. To calculate the mineral reserves different calculation and measurements were made using Google Maps and Survey of India Toposheets besides the field parameters. The mineral reserves have been calculated only upto 1.50 meter depth although there are some portions in the Nalla beds such as channel bars, point bars and central islands where the annual deposition is raising the level of Nalla bed thus causing shifting of the Nallas towards banks resulting in to cutting of banks and at such locations, removal of this material upto the bed level is essential to control the Nalla flow in its central part to check the bank cutting. While calculating the mineral potentials, the mineral deposits lying in the sub-tributaries of the Nalla has not been taken into consideration as these mineral deposits are adding annually to the main Nalla.

5.1 Drainage System and its Mineral Potential:

There is only one main Nalla in the District Kulgam that drains it along with its tributaries i.e. Nalla Veshav. The general direction of flow of the Nalla in the District is north and north-west. The Nalla originates from the Kausarng Lake in the Pir Panjal mountain Range. Kausarnag is a high altitude glacier lake located in the southwestern Pir Panjal Mountains of the District. The Nalla initially flows in northerly direction in the upper reaches of the District before shifting westward near Adijan, where from it flows westerly for most of its length till it reaches main town of Kulgam. Near Kulgam the Nalla again shifts northwards and flows in northerly direction till it leaves the district. The Nalla Veshav mainly flows in the mountainous region and has short course of flow which does not allow it to sort the material carried by it. Therefore the material deposited by it along most of its length is a mixture of different grades i.e. boulders, gravel and sand. However towards its confluence with river Jhelum the Nalla attains a smooth gradient which gives the lighter and suspended load time for settlement thereby deposition of sand takes place. The deposition of sand is restricted downstream from the Kulgam Township; this fluvial process is the main source of the deposition of the sediments in the Kulgam District.

5.1.1 Drainage system with Description of Main Nallas:

Table 4: Showing Drainage Description of Veshav Nalla

Name of the Nalla Area Drained (In % Area Drained in the District S. No. Square Kilometers) 01 Veshav 888.51 84.63

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5.1.2 Silent Features of Important Nallas and Streams:

Table 5: Showing Silent Features of Veshav Nalla

S. Name of the Total Length in the District (in Place of Origin Altitude of Origin No. Nalla Kilometers) 01 Veshav 72.63 Kausarnag 3513.16

Table 4: Showing Portion of the Nalla/Stream Recommended for Mineral Concession

Length Average width Area Minable Mineral Portion of the Recommended Recommended recommended Potential (60% of Nalla/Stream for Mineral for the Mineral for Mineral the mineral Recommended Concession (in Concession (in Concession (in potential)(Cum) for the Mineral kilometers) meters) square meters) Concession

Adibal 33.95 Km 114 1852622 1667359.8 Galwanpora to Matalhama

5.1.3 Mineral Potential:

The mineral potential of the District Kulgam is shown graphically in Figure 5 and is summarized in tabular form in Table 7.

Table 75: Showing Mineral Potential of Veshav Nalla

Boulder (MT) Bajari (MT) Sand (MT) Total Minable Mineral Potential (MT) 1138381 1138381 1191346 3468109

Figure 5: Showing Mineral Potential of Veshav Nalla

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The mineral potential of the District Kulgam is shown graphically in Figure 6 and is summarized in tabular form in Table 8.

Table 8: Showing Annual Deposition of Veshav Nalla

Boulder (MT) Bajari (MT) Sand (MT) Total Minable Mineral Potential (MT) 1138381 1138381 1191346 3468109

Figure 6: Showing Annual Deposition of Veshav Nalla

6. General Profile of the District:

The term Kulgam has been derived from two words, one is “Kul” meaning “stream” and the other is “Gam” meaning a village therefore the District is commonly referred as village of streams. This name was give to the place by the religious saint Syed Hussain Simnani who lost something in a stream at this place. Earlier the place was called Shampora. Historically the region had been used as a hunting place by the Mughals and the Dogra rulers. Geographically, the District is spread over an area of 1342 sq. km area and occupies the 19th rank in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It lies at 33°65'N latitude, 75°02'E longitude and 1739 m altitude. The actual rainfall in the District was 1355.7 mm in the year of 2015- 16. Kulgam District consists of seven Tehsils: Quimoh, Pahloo, D.H.Pora , Devsar, , Kulgam. Frisal and Behibagh. Each block consists of a number of panchayats. The District came into existence in the year 2007 with its allotted District code of 15. Kulgam District has 4 assembly constituencies: Noorabad, Kulgam, Homshailibugh and Devsar. Homshallibugh assembly segment has three municipal towns, Frisal, Yaripora and Qaimoh. There are various political parties functional in the District.

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The District has administrative headquarter at Kulgam which is situated at a distance of 68 kms from the state’s summer capital Srinagar. Demographically, according to the 2011 census, the District has a total 69,203 households with the total population of 4,24,483 out of which 2,17,620 are males and 2, 06, 863 are females and leads it to the rank 12th in State. The District has a population density of 925 inhabitants per square kilometer (2,400/sq mi). Its population growth rate over the decade 2001-2011 was 7.3%. Kulgam has a sex ratio of 951 females for every 1000 males. The schedule tribe population of the District is 26,525 including 13,888 males and 12,637 females. The percent age of ST in total population is 1.78%. Economically, the District is mainly dependent on agriculture. Several small scale industries are functional in the District. Tourism is also a source of income to the local populace in the District. Horticulture is another main source of livelihood here. The plane area of the District produces a rich quantity of paddy and is hence known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Kashmir’. Upper areas of the District produce a number of verities of apple on large scale. Other occupations of the natives of the District are rearing of livestock.

According to the census of 2011, the total literacy rate of the District is 59.23%, the male literacy rate is higher at 69.59% whereas female literacy rate is at 48.49%. out of the total population of 4,24,483 person the literate population is 2,09,085 persons comprising 1,25,052 males and 84,033 females.. Leading towns in education having literacy rate above 60 percent are Kulgam, Qaimoh, Yaripora, Frisal, Ashmujibaan, Devsar and Qazigund.

Kulgam is a picturesque place having a number of places of tourist attraction which include waterfalls, lakes and pastures. The places of attraction include, Kongwattan and Gurwattan, Ahrabal, Charenbal and Nandimarg and high altitude pastures. The place has various springs namely Kounsernag, Waseknag (Kund), Khee Nag (Khee Jogipora). Among all the places of attraction Aharbal is the most famous. Here is a famous waterfall called Aharbal waterfall which is popularly known as Niagara Fall, where thousands of national and international tourists visit every year.

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Figure 7: Showing Road Map of District Kulgam

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7. Land utilization pattern in the District:

Although the terms land cover and land use is often used interchangeably, their actual meanings are quite distinct. Land cover refers to the surface cover on the ground, whether vegetation, urban infrastructure, water, bare soil or other. Identifying, delineating and mapping land cover is important for monitoring studies, resource management, and planning activities. Identification of land cover establishes the baseline from which monitoring activities (change detection) can be performed, and provides the ground cover information for baseline thematic maps for further planning and management.

Figure 8: Showing Land use/Land Cover Map of District Kulgam

Land use refers to the purpose the land serves, for example, recreation, wildlife habitat, or agriculture. Land use applications involve both baseline mapping and subsequent monitoring, since

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District Survey Report 2017 timely information is required to know what current quantity of land is in what type of use and to identify the land use changes from year to year. This knowledge helps in development strategies to balance conservation, conflicting uses, and developmental pressures. Issues driving land use studies include the removal or disturbance of productive land, urban encroachment, and depletion of natural resources. A large number of Land cover / use classes can be identified in the District Kulgam with varying statistics. The major land use / Land cover classes of the District is shown in the Figure 8 and their graphical representation is given in Figure 9 and the statistics are presented in the Table 9.

Figure 9: Showing Graphical Representation of LULC of District Kulgam

Table 9: Showing land use Land Cover Classes of District Kulgam

Land Cover/Land Use Area in Sq. Kms. Percent Area Agriculture/Plantation 123.86 9.93 Barren Rocky 57.18 4.58 Built Up Urban 0.89 0.07 Built Up Dispersed Settlement 1.87 0.15 Built Up Mining and Industerial 1.22 0.1 Built Up Mixed Settlement 2.41 0.19 Built Up Rural 36.3 2.91 Built Up Transportation 0.27 0.02 Built up Village 0.01 0 Cannal 0.15 0.01 Cropland 222.57 17.84 Forest 203.84 16.34 Grassland/Grazing 57.28 4.59 Lakes/Ponds 4.16 0.33 River/Stream/Drain 10.98 0.88 Sandy Areas 15.08 1.21 Scrub Land Dense 31.15 2.5

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Scrub Land Open 94.43 7.57 Snow/Glacier Area 383.99 30.78 Total 1247.64 100.00

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8. Physiography of the District:

District Kulgam is located in the south western part of the valley of Kashmir and is surrounded by the Districts Anantnag in the east, Pulwama in the north, Shopian and Poonch in the east, Rajori and Reasi in the south and Ramban in the south-west.

Figure 10: Showing Elevation Map of District Kulgam

Physiographically District Kulgam evenly consists of plains, hills and mountains. The north, northeastern and the eastern parts of the District predominantly consist of plain area (more than ninety percent) plain and the south, southwestern and the western part of the is dominated rugged terrain of the Pir Panjal Range. In the central part of the District special geomorphic features locally known as wudars (Karewas) dominate the landscape. The maximum elevation observed in the District is 4300m above sea level, as seen in the south and south-western part and the minimum elevation is less than 1600m above sea level along the north and north-western boundary of the District Figure 10 and 11 (Elevation Map and contour Map). Nalla Veshav that drains most of the District along with its tributaries originates from high altitude glacier lake; Kausarnag in the Pir Panjal mountains and initially flowing in the northern direction and then shifts it course to north and flow in the same direction upto Kulgam town, where it again shifts its direction and flows northwards and continues to flow in the same direction till it leaves the District at its northern boundary.

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District Survey Report 2017

The landscape of District is predominantly (more than 99%) tilted in nature. Based on the degree of steepness of the landscape the District was classified into six categories .more than half of the area of the District is under very steep slope (> 60 degrees). This region of high slope is consists of hilly and mountainous regions of Karewas and the Pir Panjal Range. Table 3 shows the various slope categories of the District and the area covered under them and the Figure 12 shows the slope map of the District.

Figure 11: Showing Contour Map of District Kulgam

Aspect is the direction that a slope faces. The direction a slope faces can affect the physical and biotic features of the slope, known as a slope effect. The aspect of the landscape of the District Kulgam shows that the landscape is almost evenly distributed. However, north, northeast and eastern aspect is the dominant aspect of the slopes in the District suggesting an aggressive activity of the geomorphic agents in these directions. Figure 11 shows the aspect map of Kulgam District and the statistics of the aspect are represented in the Table 5.

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District Survey Report 2017

Figure 62: Showing Slope Map of District Kulgam

Table 10: Showing Area Covered Under Different Slope Categories

Area Percent Area Slope Category in Degrees 0-15 37.06 2.76 15-30 99.97 7.44 30-45 141.77 10.56 45-60 177.61 13.23 60-75 336.93 25.10 >75 548.62 40.88 Total Area 1341.96 100.00

Geomorphologically, the District consists of three geomorphic units viz: the Pir Panjal Mountains, Karewas and alluvial pains.

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District Survey Report 2017

8.1 The Pir Panjals:

The Pir Panjal Range is situated principally in the disputed Kashmir region. It extends southeastward for more than 320 km from the Nilam (Kishanganga) River in the western Azad Kashmir area (administered by Pakistan), through southwestern Jammu and Kashmir state (administered by India) to the upper Beas River in northwestern Himachal Pradesh state, India. Rising sharply to an average elevation of more than 4,000 metres, it separates the Jammu Hills to the south from the valley of Kashmir, beyond which lie the Great Himalayas. The major passes through the Range include the Pir Panjal 3,494 metres and Banihal 2,739 metres. A highway tunnel near Banihal Pass makes the valley of Kashmir accessible to traffic from the south.

The general trend of the Pir Panjal mountains is east-southeast (ESE) west-northwest (WNW). In the District Kulgam the mountain Range is bordering the south, southeast and the southwest parts of the District. Here the mountain Range has elevation between 3500 to 4300 meters above mean sea level.

Figure 13: Showing Aspect Map of District Kulgam

8.2 The Karewas:

Karewas are flat topped mounds that are spread in the entire Kashmir valley, however, they are more pronounced to the west of the river Jhelum where these Table-lands attain a height of

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District Survey Report 2017 about 380 meters above the level of the Valley. These Karewas protrude towards the east and look like tongue-shaped spurs with deep ravines. In the District Kulgam these landforms are found throughout on the northern flanks of the Pir Panjal Mountains.

Table 11: Showing Aspect Categories of District Kulgam

Area in Sq. Km Percent Area Aspect

Flat 1 0.07

North 223 16.62

Northeast 232 17.29

East 210 15.65

Southeast 151 11.25

South 107 7.97

Southwest 107 7.97

West 137 10.21

Northeast 174 12.97

Total 1342 100

8.3 Alluvial Plains:

Kulgam District has vast stretches of a largely flat landform created by the deposition of sediments over a long period of time by the Nalla Veshav coming from highland of Pir Panjal Range. These alluvial plains are a level or gently sloping surface formed of sediments of very fertile nature and mostly lie along the course of the Nalla Veshav. These plains are particularly put to the paddy cultivation producing large verities of rice in bulk quantities due to which Kulgam is referred as the rice bowl of Kashmir. These plains have an average elevation of 1600m above mean sea level and are often flooded by the Veshav.

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District Survey Report 2017

9. Rainfall in the District:

The climate of the District Kulgam is mild, and generally warm and temperate with a significant rainfall. Even in the driest month there is a lot of rain. The climate is Cfa type according to the Köppen-Geiger climate classification. In Kulgam, the average annual temperature is 13.7 °C and the average annual rainfall is 922 mm. Precipitation in Kulgam is generally lowest in the month of November, with a long term average of 30 mm whereas March is the wettest month and the long term average precipitation in the month is 145 mm. the average temperature in the District is 23.2 °C and July is the hottest month whereas January is the coldest month.

Rainfall is the primary source of water and is of great importance for the economy of any administrative setup, specially its agriculture industry and in the present context to its mineral wealth produced by its rivers, Nallas and streams. Rainfall is highly variable over space and time, leads to many climatic calamities more often than not. Rainfall statistics is therefore required by the Policy Makers and Planners. The mean monthly rainfall for the District Kulgam is given in the tabular form in Table 12 and in graphical form in the Figure 14.

Figure 14: showing Mean Monthly Rainfall in the District Kulgam

Table 12: Showing Mean Monthly Rainfall of District Kulgam

Precipitation / Rainfall (mm) Month January 94 February 80 March 145 April 125 May 96

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District Survey Report 2017

June 52 July 70 August 60 September 90 October 38 November 30 December 42

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District Survey Report 2017

10. Geology and Mineral wealth of the District:

Broadly speaking only five litho-units can be identified in the District Kulgam, the extensions of which occur in the scattered manner in the other parts of the Kashmir valley and the Himalayas. The major geological units of the District Kulgam are presented in the Table and are briefly introduced below.

Figure 7: Showing Geological Map of District Kulgam

10.1 The Salkhalas:

The Precambrian rocks of the Kashmir are known as Salkhalas, named after the Salkhala village in the north Kashmir. It is considered as the oldest metasedimantry unit of the northern Himalayas and forms the base of the Kashmir Nappe. The Salkhalas are composed of carbonaceous slates, pyritous-graphitic phyllites, carbonaceous grey or white limestone, and marble, calcareous slates mica schist. Chloritic, talcosic and sericitic phyllites and schists, garnetiferous schists and flaggy quartzites are also observed. These rocks are severely deformed into isoclinal folds and are highly metamorphosed. The basal part of the Salkhalas is comprised of granitic gneisses which have been named as Central Himalayan Gneiss by. Granitic gneiss and porphyritic dolerites, amphibolites and pyroxinites are also presents within the formation. The Salkhala formation rocks are exposed around the western extremity of the Kulgam District in the the Pir-Panjal Range.

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District Survey Report 2017

Table 13: Showing Litho-units of District Kulgam

S. No. Litho-unit Lithology Age

1 Recent Alluvium Unconsolidated silt, Sand, Clay and Gravel Recent

2 Karewas Silt, Sand, Conglomerate, Lignite Beds, Clay Plio-Pleistocene and Loess paleosols.

3 Triassic Limestones and Shales Triassic Limestone

4 Panjal Traps Basaltic to Andesitic Lava lows Permo- carbaniferous 5 Salkhala Gneisses Schist, Phillytes, Slate Quatzites, Pre- cambrian Amphibolites and Pyroxinites dolerites

10.2 The Panjal Traps:

The term Panjal Traps is used to designate a thick sequence of effusive basaltic to andesitic rocks intercalated within the Tethyan sediments. These basaltic to andesitic lava flows are observed from NE Pakistan to Upper Lahul and are quite easily traceable on satellite imagery because of their dark color.

The maximum thickness of these lava flows (over 2000m) is reached in the Kashmir basin where they belong to the Panjal Volcanic Series together with the "Agglomeratic Slates". Towards the southeast, their thickness progressively diminishes.

The Panjal traps are formed by a succession of bedded basaltic to andesitic flows. A Single bed often displays a gradation from compact massive basalt at the base towards amygdale-rich basalts at the top. The upper part of these rocks quite often displays ropy and braided surfaces (pahoehoe) or sometimes pillow lava. The basalts are aphyritic and display a relictual microlithic texture becoming vesicular or even spilitic at the top of the single beds. These rocks are exposed in vast outcrops in the Kulgam District in its southern parts. They run in two sub-parallel blocks in NNW and SSE direction. These lava flows are considered of permo-carbaniferous age.

10.3 Triassic Limestone:

This is the most extensively developed and widespread formation in Kashmir and forms picturesque escarpments and cliffs to the south east of Jhelum river. These carbonate rocks comprise mainly limestones with inter bedded shale’s, sandy Shale’s, arenaceous limestones and quartzites. The limestone is rich in calcium Carbonate while as dolomite is composed essentially of Calcium and Magnesium Carbonates. In the hills surrounding Kashmir Valley, the Triassic

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District Survey Report 2017 limestone stands out in bold relief against the dark colored slate and rocks of Panjal formations. Here they also form the source of the numerous and copious fresh water. The Triassic limestone is of a few thousand meters thickness and covers a very large area of the Kulgam District. These comprise pale grey limestones and dolomites with occasional quartzite layers which in some sections pass upwards into dark slate and thin limestone. Triassic Limestone conformably overlies the Zewan formation.

10.4 The Karewas:

The Karewa deposits in the Kashmir valley cover about half of its area. The karewas deposits on the Pir Panjal side have much wider spread. These sediments were laid in the tectonically created depression due various tectonic events that commenced in the Pliocence and continued into the earlier part of Pleistocene. The Karewa sediments of Kashmir Valley spread throughout the Valley covering about 2500 sq. km. Karewa sediments are composed of unconsolidated gravel-sand-mud succession, making large plateau-like terraces. These terrigenous Karewas sediments are of Plio-Pleistocene age and are about 1300 meter in thickness. These deposits are almost horizontal but tilted towards Pir-Panjal Range. The basement rock of these Karewa sediments is Triassic limestone and Late Permian Panjal Traps

During the Pleistocene Period, Kashmir has witnessed four major glaciations, which were separated by the interglacial periods of humid and temperate climatic conditions. During the interglacial periods basin witnessed the appearance of a wide spread lake which occupied whole of the present day Kashmir Valley. It is a synclinal basin, which preserves an excellent record of the alternate glacial and interglacial periods. This resulted in a thick deposition of sediments, until it was drained through a gorge near Varmul. These deposits occupy nearly half of the area of the present day Kashmir Valley. The Karewa Group has been divided into Lower Hirpur formation and Upper Nagum Formation and Dilpur Formation (Table 6)

10.5 Recent Alluvium:

Alluvium is loose, unconsolidated (not cemented together into a solid rock) soil or sediments, which has been eroded, reshaped by water in some form, and redeposited in a non-marine setting. Alluvium is typically made up of a variety of materials, including fine particles of silt and clay and larger particles of sand and gravel. When this loose alluvial material is deposited or cemented into a lithological unit, or lithified, it is called an alluvial deposit. Most alluvium is geologically very young (Quaternary in age), and is often referred to as "cover" because these sediments obscure the underlying bedrock. Most sedimentary material that fills a basin ("basin fills") that is not lithified is typically lumped together as "alluvial. Recent alluvium occurs in the lower regions of the Kulgam District where Nalla Veshav has deposited it over a large period of time.

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District Survey Report 2017

Table 14: Showing Lithostratigraphy of the Karewa Group

Group Formation Member Lithology Epoch

Pleistocene Upper. Karewa Upper Dilpur Dilpur Formation Golden-.brown colored Group Karewa Formation loamy clay beds, carbonaceous clay band, paleosols and calcareous nodules

Middle

Lower. Middle Nagam Krungus member Stratified glacial drift, Karewa formation ………………… grave bed, laminated marl ………………. and silt sequence, sand Pampore Member bed, sandy clay and clay ………………… ………………. Shopian Member .. …angular …………………………… unconformity…….. Bedded sequence of sandy Methowanian clay, lignite, sand Member conglomerate, lignite to ………………… dark grey plastic clay and Pliocene Lower Hirpur ………………. verved sediments Karewa Formation Rambiara Member ………………… ………………. Dubjan Member

Pre- Karewa Basement (Panjal Traps, Limestone, slates)

10.6 Mineral wealth

The geologic materials from soils, to sands and gravels, to rocks and minerals, to petroleum resources form the basis of modern society. Indigenous mineral resources are valuable asserts for any nation. Adequate supplies of minerals are essentially required for manufacturing, construction, energy requirements and agriculture and thus for the sustainable development of modern economy. All the minerals come from the rocks of the earth and thus it becomes imperative

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District Survey Report 2017 to study and classify the rock units of a region more particularly with reference their mineral content. The location of mines and quarries fundamentally reflects the geology of a particular area.

The District is blessed with significant deposits of minor mineral resources like boulder bajri and sand. Nalla Veshav represents the main source of these minor mineral resources. The Veshav Nalla along with its tributaries weather the catchment lithologies: Salkhalas, Panjal Traps, Limestone and quaternary deposits which are subsequently transported and deposited as bed load in Nalla Veshav. The available minor mineral resources are extracted and utilized for infrastructure works in the district, generating employment and revenue for state exchequer. In the year 2015-16 the production of these minor minerals was 306920 metric tons and the revenue realized was INR Rs74,03,558/- on account of mineral royalty. Moreover, till date no major mineral and building stone quarries have been established in the District.

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Geomorphology Report of Kulgam District

CONTENTS

S.No. Title Page No. 1. Kulgam District Profile 2 2. Proposed Minor Mineral Blocks 4 3. Process of Deposition of Sediments in the Nalla 5 3.1 Drainage System and its Mineral Potential 7 3.1.1 Drainage system with Description of Main Nallas 7 3.1.2 Mineral Potential 8 4. Land utilization pattern in the District 9 5. Physiography of the District 10 5.1 The Pir Panjals 14 5.2 The Karewas 15 5.3 Alluvial Plains 15 S.No. Figure of Title Page No. 1. Showing location Map of the District Kulgam 1 2. Showing Proposed Composite Map Minor Mineral Blocks 5 3. Showing the Drainage Map of Kulgam District 6 4. Showing Mineral Potential of Veshav Nalla 9 5. Land use/Land Cover Map of District Kulgam 10 6. Showing Elevation Map of District Kulgam 11 7. Showing Contour Map of District Kulgam 12 8. Showing Slope Map of District Kulgam 13 9. Showing Aspect Map of District Kulgam 14 S.No. Table of Title Page No. 1. Showing Proposed Minor Mineral Blocks 4 2. Showing Drainage Description of Veshav Nalla 7 3. Showing Silent Features of Veshav Nalla 8 4. Showing Portion of the Nalla/Stream Recommended for Mineral Concession 8 5. Showing Mineral Potential of Veshav Nalla 8 6. Showing Area Covered Under Different Slope Categories 13 7. Showing Aspect Categories of District Kulgam 16

1. Kulgam District Profile:

Kulgam is located at 33°38’24”N 75°01’12”E. It has an average elevation of 1739 meters (5705 feet). District Kulgam has the Districts of Anantnag and Shopian in its contiguity on its eastern and northern sides respectively. The Districts of Reasi, Ramban and Rajouri fall on its south and south-west though separated by mighty and majestic mountainous range of Pir Panjal acting as a massive topological protection but rich in vegetation and forests with vast and extensive pastures on its lower slopes and foot hills. About 82.80% of population lives in rural areas and the agriculture is the main source of livelihood of about 80% of the total population. Nature has gifted and bestowed this whole area With agro climatic conditions suited for agriculture in its lower belts and fruit culture in the upper areas. On account of fertile lands with better yield and productivity, Kulgam is considered as ‘Rice- Bowl’ of Kashmir. Upper areas of Kulgam are known for the production of quality apple. Due to conducive environment ‘Rice Seed Multiplication Farm’ spread over a large area stands established by the Sher-i-Kashmir Agricultural University of Science and Technology in Tehsil Kulgam at Khudwani and Kendriya Krishi Vegyan at Pombay Kulgam for technology transfer. Live Stock and sheep rearing is a subsidiary occupation of their socio-economic scenario. As a result of the availability of summer pastures, the District abounds in improved quality of sheep and other animals. The geographical area of the district is 404 sq. kms.

Figure 1: Showing location Map of the District Kulgam

2. Proposed Minor Mineral Blocks:

Table 1: Showing Proposed Minor Mineral Blocks Block Name of the Block Mineral Nalla/River Area No. (Ha)

03. Block-KL/V/C, Nehama Bridge Sand, Bajri & Boulder Nalla Veshav 8.41 Upstream

07. Block-KL/V/G, Ching Adigan Sand, Bajri & Boulder Nalla Veshav 8.91 Bridge, Upstream

13. Block-KL/V/M, Chillan Asthal Sand, Bajri & Boulder Nalla Veshav 9.32 Bridge, Upstream

19. Block-KL/V/S, Kulgam Bridge, Sand, Bajri & Boulder Nalla Veshav 9.52 Downstream

23 Block-KL/V/W, Ashmuji Bridge Sand, Bajri & Boulder Nalla Veshav 9.09 Upstream

Figure 2: Showing Proposed Composite Map Minor Mineral Blocks

3. Process of Deposition of Sediments in the Nalla: Sediment is a naturally occurring material that is broken down by processes of weathering and erosion, and is subsequently transported by the action of wind, water and/or by the force of gravity acting on the particles. Sediment includes a variety of material size ranging from clay to big boulders. River represents one of the most important geological agents that change the landscape of the earth by its Geomorphogical processes i.e. weathering, transportation and deposition of the sediments. Sediments are most often transported by water. Sediment is transported based on the strength of the flow that carries it and its own size, volume, density, and shape. Stronger flows will increase the lift and drag on the particle, causing it to rise, while larger or denser particles will be more likely to fall through the flow. If the upwards velocity of the sediment is approximately equal to the settling velocity, sediment will be transported downstream entirely as suspended load. If the upwards velocity is much less than the settling velocity, but still high enough for the sediment to move, it will move along the bed as bed load

5 by rolling, sliding, and saltating (jumping up into the flow, being transported a short distance then settling again). If the upwards velocity is higher than the settling velocity, the sediment will be transported high in the flow as wash load. As there are generally a Range of different particle sizes in the flow, it is common for material of different sizes to move through all mechanisms of the flow for given stream conditions.

Figure 3: Showing the Drainage Map of Kulgam District The deposition of sediments in a Nalla bed is more pronounced during rainy season although the magnitude of deposition varies from stream to stream depending upon numbers of factors such as catchment lithology, discharge, stream profile and geomorphology of the stream course and the stage in which the stream flows. If the deposition of sediments during a flood season/ rainy season is high under the given conditions it has been observed that replenishment takes place in that season only and the whole material excavated during the previous mining season gets stocked up with new harvest of minerals. In order to calculate the mineral deposits in the stream beds, the mineral constituents have been categorized as, sand, bajri and boulder. To calculate the mineral reserves different calculation and measurements were made using Google Maps and Survey of India Toposheets besides the field parameters. The mineral reserves have been calculated only upto 1.50 meter depth although there are some portions in the Nalla beds such as channel bars, point bars and central islands where the annual deposition is raising the level of Nalla bed thus causing shifting of the Nallas towards banks resulting in to cutting of banks and at such locations, removal of this material upto

6 the bed level is essential to control the Nalla flow in its central part to check the bank cutting. While calculating the mineral potentials, the mineral deposits lying in the sub-tributaries of the Nalla has not been taken into consideration as these mineral deposits are adding annually to the main Nalla.

3.1 Drainage System and its Mineral Potential:

3.1.1 Drainage system with Description of Main Nallas:

Table 2: Showing Drainage Description of Veshav Nalla

S. No. Name of the Nalla Area Drained (In % Area Drained in Square Kilometers) the District 1. Veshav 888.51 84.63

3.1.2 Silent Features of Important Nallas and Streams:

Table 3: Showing Silent Features of Veshav Nalla

S. No. Name of the Total Length in Place of Origin Altitude of Nalla the District (in Origin Kilometers) 1. Veshav 72.63 Kausarnag 3513.16

Table 4: Showing Portion of the Nalla/Stream Recommended for Mineral Concession

Portion of the Length Average width Area Minable Nalla/Stream Recommended Recommended for recommended Mineral Recommended for for Mineral the Mineral for Mineral Potential (60% the Mineral Concession(in Concession (in Concession (in of the mineral Concession Kilometers) meters) square meters) potential) (Cum) Adibal Galwanpora 33.95 Km 114 1852622 1667359.8 to Matalhama

3.1.3 Mineral Potential:

The mineral potential of the District Kulgam is shown graphically in Figure- 4 and is summarized in tabular form in Table 5.

Table 5: Showing Mineral Potential of Veshav Nalla Boulder (MT) Bajri Sand Total Minable Mineral Potential 1138381 1138381 1191346 3468109

Figure 4: Showing Mineral Potential of Veshav Nalla

4. Land utilization pattern in the District:

Figure - 5 Land use/Land Cover Map of District Kulgam

5. Physiography of the District: District Kulgam is located in the south western part of the valley of Kashmir and is surrounded by the Districts Anantnag in the east, Pulwama in the north, Shopian and Poonch in the east, Rajori and Reasi in the south and Ramban in the south-west.

Figure 6: Showing Elevation Map of District Kulgam

Aspect is the direction that a slope faces. The direction a slope faces can affect the physical and biotic features of the slope, known as a slope effect. The aspect of the landscape of the District Kulgam shows that the landscape is almost evenly distributed. However, north, northeast and eastern aspect is the dominant aspect of the slopes in the District suggesting an aggressive activity of the geomorphic agents in these directions. Figure 8 shows the aspect map of Kulgam District and the statistics of the aspect are represented in the Table 6.

Figure 8: Showing Slope Map of District Kulgam

Table 6: Showing Area Covered Under Different Slope Categories

Slope Category in Degrees Area Percent Area

0-15 37.06 2.76 15-30 99.97 7.44 30-45 141.77 10.56 45-60 177.61 13.23 60-75 336.93 25.10 >75 548.62 40.88 Total Area 1341.96 100.00

Geomorphologically, the District consists of three geomorphic units viz: the Pir Panjal Mountains, Karewas and alluvial pains.

5.1 The Pir Panjals: The Pir Panjal Range is situated principally in the disputed Kashmir region. It extends southeastward for more than 320 km from the Nilam (Kishanganga) River in the western Azad Kashmir area (administered by Pakistan), through southwestern Jammu and Kashmir state (administered by India) to the upper Beas River in northwestern Himachal Pradesh state, India. Rising sharply to an average elevation of more than 4,000 metres, it separates the Jammu Hills to the south from the valley of Kashmir, beyond which lie the Great Himalayas. The major passes through the Range include the Pir Panjal 3,494 metres and Banihal 2,739 metres. A highway tunnel near Banihal Pass makes the valley of Kashmir accessible to traffic from the south. The general trend of the Pir Panjal mountains is east-southeast (ESE) west-northwest (WNW). In the District Kulgam the mountain Range is bordering the south, southeast and the southwest parts of the District. Here the mountain Range has elevation between 3500 to 4300 meters above mean sea level. Figure 9: Showing Aspect Map of District Kulgam

5.2 The Karewas: Karewas are flat topped mounds that are spread in the entire Kashmir valley, however, they are more pronounced to the west of the river Jhelum where these Table-lands attain a height of about 380 meters above the level of the Valley. These Karewas protrude towards the east and look like tongue-shaped spurs with deep ravines. In the District Kulgam these landforms are found throughout on the northern flanks of the Pir Panjal Mountains. Table 7: Showing Aspect Categories of District Kulgam Aspect Area in Sq. Km Percent Area

Flat 1 0.07 North 223 16.62 Northeast 232 17.29 East 210 15.65 Southeast 151 11.25 South 107 7.97 Southwest 107 7.97 West 137 10.21 Northeast 174 12.97 Total Area 1342 100.00

5.3 Alluvial Plains: Kulgam District has vast stretches of a largely flat landform created by the deposition of sediments over a long period of time by the Nalla Veshav coming from highland of Pir Panjal Range. These alluvial plains are a level or gently sloping surface formed of sediments of very fertile nature and mostly lie along the course of the Nalla Veshav. These plains are particularly put to the paddy cultivation producing large verities of rice in bulk quantities due to which Kulgam is referred as the rice bowl of Kashmir. These plains have an average elevation of 1600m above mean sea level and are often flooded by the Veshav.

Reference: 1. http://kulgam.gov.in/ 2. District Survey Report of Kulgam District 3. Censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/DCHB_A/.../0115_PART_A_DCHB_KULGAM.pd. 4. https://earth.google.com/web