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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT & ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR

(AS PER EIA NOTIFICATION SEPT’ 06) OF

GANPATI UG EXPN. MINE

(PRODUCTION CAPACIY FROM 0.12 MTPA TO 0.21 MTPA with LEASE AREA 418.796 Ha) PREPARED AS PER TOR NO. J- 11015/241/2011- IA.II (M) DTD. 30.05.2011

JUNE - 2011

Prepared by: - ENVIRONMENT DEPARTMENT CENTRAL MINE PLANNING & DESIGN INSTITUTE LIMITED REGIONAL INSTITUTE - IV, JARIPATKA – 440 014

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF

EIA/EMP

FOR

GANPATI UG EXPN. PENCH AREA,WCL

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION:-

The existing Ganapati UG mine was taken over during nationalization and is in operation since 14/04/1986. The mine has got lease-hold area of 418.796 ha, which has been transferred from EDC Colliery and Rawanwara Khas Colliery. The mine having three seams i.e. Leader no. 2 seam, No. 2 seam and No. 3 seam. Presently, we are working in No. 3 seam.

The Environmental Clearance for the subject mine was obtained from MOEF for 0.12 MTPA with mine lease area of 418.796 ha vide letter no. J-11015/147 /2007 IA.II(M) Dt 11 –06 – 2007. Now in view of the ever increasing demand of power grade coal, it is proposed to enhance the production capacity beyond the already sanctioned capacity (0.12 MTPA) up to 0.21 MTPA without any increase in Mine lease area. Accordingly Form – 1 document was prepared and submitted to MOEF through Ministry of Coal vide its Office Memorandum no. 43011/24/2010- CPAM dated 01.07.2010. EAC meeting for finalization of TOR held on 18.04.2011.Therefore, based on the TOR issued by MOEF vide its letter J- 11015/241/2011 – IA .II(M) dated 30.05.2011, this document has been prepared and is being submitted to Pollution Control Board for conducting Public Hearing.

LOCATION:-

Ganpati Colliery is located at a distance of about 5 kM North-East of at Panch and Kanhan coalfilds. Ganpati Colliery is surrounded by Rawanwara Khas in East, EDC Colliery in West, Newton Chikali Colliery in North and Rawanwara in the South .

Ganpati Colliery falls in district and is bounded by latitudes 22 o 11’ 30 “ to 22 o 12’ 00” & longitude 78o 46’ 00” to 78 o 47’ 00” represented by survey of Topo Sheet No. 55J/10.

COMMUNICATION:

Ganpati Colliery is situated at a distance of about 15 KM east of Parasia town, on M.P.State Highway no.19. These mines mine has got an approach by metalled road from Parasia Tahasil of Chindwara District. Parasia Tahasil is linked with Chhindwara through broad gauge railway line of S.E. Railway and from Amla by a broad gauge line of Central railway. Parasia Tahasil located 27 Kms. north west of Chhindwara and 150 Kms. from Nagpur.

TOPOGRAPHY & DRAINAGE :

The general topography of the area is undulating with surface elevation varying from 778 mtr. to 878 mtr. The block has a rugged terrain with hills and valleys. The central part of the block is comparatively plan. There are few seasonal nallas flowing towards North-East direction. The area exhibits two main topographical features. A small area in the south covering the old Cradock and Suwarnarekha mines.

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CLIMATE :

The climate of the area is tropical. Maximum temp. in summer is about 45o C. winter is mild, monsoon starts from mid of June and continue up to October. Avg. annual rainfall is about 800 mm to 1000 mm the climate is pleasant on account of its elevation. In summer the temperature touches up to 43 degrees centigrade. In winter the night temperature touches a low of about 3 degree centigrade.

DETAILS OF MINING LEASE :

Ganpati Colliery is situated in Pench & Kanhan Valley Coalfields within Chindwara District of Madhya Pradesh. Five numbers of MCR Leases, namely Lease no19, 20, 21, 24,&27 falls within the Mine boundary of Ganpati Colliery. These MCR leases were originally owned by erstwhile coal companies during pre-nationalization period and came under the public control after take over of non coking coal mines in May 1973.

After formation of WCL on 01.11.1975, the mines automatically came under administrative control of WCL. As per Section 3 of the Coal India, Reg. of Transfer & validation Act 2000, these leases were deemed to be fresh mining lease w.e.f. 01.11.75 & these leases were valid up to 31.10.2005, i.e. a period of 30 years. As per clause 22(e) of Mineral Concession Rules 1960, the renewal of Mining lease has been obtained for a period of 20 years i.e. from 01.11.2005 to 31.10.2025.

Part of five MCR Leases, namely Lease no – 19, 20, 21, 24, & 27 falls within the mine boundary of Ganpati Colliery.

The MCR lease falling partly within the Mine boundary of Ganpati colliery, exist in number of isolated areas, with the same identification no, in Pench & Kanhan Coalfields. As such for the purpose of this Mining Plan, for renewal of MCR Lease, Lease no 19, 20, 21, 24 & 27, has been further divided into number of Sub-leases on the basis of its existence within different mine boundary. The mine-wise details of the part leases are being given in the following table.

Lease Total Rawanwara E D C NewtoNno rth Chandametta Ganpati No. Area Chikhli Colliery colliery khas Colliery in ‘Ha’ Colliery Colliery 19 179.146 -- 175.842 -- -- 3.304 20 123.993 -- 9.613 -- 28.890 85.490 21 123.431 -- 62.506 -- -- 60.925 24 436.409 208.509 ------227.90 27 1136.770 -- 61.437 1015.743 18.413 41.177 Total 1999.749 208.509 309.398 1015.743 47.303 418.796

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ABSTRACT OF THE SCHEDULE OF LAND OF THE MCR LEASES COVERED UNDER THE MINING PLAN OF GANPATI COLLIERY

Figures in Ha.) Area Total Area covered Remarks Village Private Govt. Forest under in this Land Land Land mining plan MCR Lease No – 19 Entire Area falls within Donger 105.030 45.800 -- 150.830 -- the Mine Boundary of Chikali EDC Colliey

Part Lease area within Donger Ganpati Colliery, 23.181 5.135 -- 28.316 3.304 balance in EDC Parasia Colliery.

Sub- total (19) 128.211 50.935 -- 1 179.146 3.304

MCR Lease No – 24 Entire Area falls within Rawanwara the Mine Boundary of 72.733 112.766 -- 185.499 -- Rawanwara Khas village Colliey.

Govt Forest Part Lease area within Block no 64, Ganpati Colliery, -- -- 250.91 250.91 227.90 balance in Rawanwara Khas Colliery Range Sub- total (24) 72.733 112.766 250.91 436.409 227.90

MCR Lease No – 20 Chandamett Entire Area falls within 2.415 12.716 -- 15.131 -- the Mine Boundary of a Chandametta Colliery Donger Part Lease area within 57.382 37.721 -- 95.103 85.490 Ganpati Colliery, Parasia balance in EDC Colliery Entire Area falls within Donger Chikali 7.278 6.481 -- 13.759 -- the Mine Boundary of Chandametta Colliery

Sub- total (20) 67.075 56.918 -- 123.759 85.490

MCR Lease No – 21 Govt Forest Part Lease area within Block no 64, -- -- 123.431 123.431 60.925 Ganpati Colliery, Amarwara balance in EDC Colliery Range at Umreth Sub- total (21) -- -- 123.431 123.431 60.925

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Area Total Area covered Remarks Village Private Govt. Forest under in this Land Land Land mining plan MCR Lease No – 27 Entire Area falls within Chandamett the Mine Boundary of 10.744 7.669 -- 18.413 -- a Khurd North Chandametta Colliey Entire Area falls within Likhwari 139.065 22.918 -- 161.983 -- the Mine Boundary of Newton Chikali Colliey Entire Area falls within Chikhli Kalan 357.649 66.941 -- 424.593 -- the Mine Boundary of Newton Chikali Colliey Part Lease area within Ganpati Colliery, Mayawari 356.992 174.792 -- 531.781 41.177 balance in Newton Chikali Colliey & EDC Colliery Sub- total (27) 864.45 272.32 -- 1136.770 41.177 Grand Total 1999.749 418.796

The total land area within mine boundary of Ganpati Colliery is 418.796.

Acquisition of mining lease & all rights :

The area applied for renewal of mining lease under Mineral Concession Rule 1960 through this mining plan, taking into account part sub-leases falling within mine boundary of Ganpati Colliery, is 418.796 Ha. All rights of land measuring 12.159 Ha has been acquired.

Breakup of land acquisition of all right is as under :

(Figs in Ha) Particulars Private / Govt/ Nazul Forest Total Tenancy All Right 5.650 6.509 -- 12.159

PARTICULARS OF PROSPECTING AGENCY :

Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL) has done detailed exploration in East Donger Chickhli block and Ganpati Incline area. The details are furnished in Geological report prepared by MECL on exploration for coal in East Donger Chickhli block April 1991 and in Ganpati Incline area September, 1998.

In addition to the geological data available through the underground workings of Ganpati Colliery, some production support drilling were also carried out for delineation of geological structure of the Area falling under Ganpati colliery. The details of Exploration agency and number of boreholes are given as under

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Sl. Name of Block BH Series No. of Agency Remark No. boreholes 1 East Donger Chickhli EDC 50 MECL GR April 1991 block 2 Ganpati Incline MPG 12 MECL GR September 1998 3 Rawanwara North PKSK 02 MECL GR by MECL. Block PKC 02 MECL GR by MECL.

4 Near Ganpati Incline B Series 15 Colliery GR of EDC by & EDC Colliery Autorities MECL

Total Nos of BHS 81

GEOLOGY OF THE BLOCK:

GENERAL :

a) Geology of the block has been established by surface and sub surface data. The coal bearing barakar formation over lain conformably by formation.

b) Boreholes drilled within mine boundary of Ganpati Colliery. Mineral Exploration Corporation has done 66 nos. boreholes (MPG-12 Nos., EDC-50 nos. PKC-2 nos, PKSK-2 nos.) and by WCL authorities about 15 nos. Thus 81 nos. boreholes have been drilled within Ganpati Colliery boundary.

c) Surveying the entire survey work was carried by the WCL colliery authorities and the borehole location plan supplied by them has been utilized by mine.

GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE OF THE AREA

The Ganpati incline area is mostly under the cover of Deccan trap. Hence, the structure of the block is mainly deciphered on the basis of the date of boreholes and underground mine workings. While overlying the structure, due consideration and other structural features observed in the boreholes cores. The geological structure of the block has been depicted in the floor contour of three seams viz. L- 1, IIIA & IIIB. The Ganpati incline area is traversed by only two faults. F1 and F2 trending in F-W directions. Fault F1, shows southerly dip and fault F2 dips due north.

DIP AND STRIKE

A study of the floor contours shows gentle observes in the attitude of formations. The strike in general is East-West. However, if swings gently to ENE-VWSW in the eastern part around the boreholes MPG-14,15 & PKSK-10. In the north and north western part, the strike gradually swings to MNW-ESW direction around boreholes

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PKC-7, EDC-14, MPG-6,9 and EDC-16. The dip is always northerly and shows variation from 60 to 90.

Faults

A total of two normal faults have been deciphered on the basis of omission of coal seams, intersection in mine workings and difference in floor reduced level (FRL’s) between two adjacent boreholes. These faults have been numbered serially as F1 and F2. The data generated from MPG series boreholes have confirmed that the structure of the area is very simple and density of faults is very less.

Particular Faults Faults Location Located in the Northern Located in South-Eastern part of the part, North of MPG-11 and block, North of EDC-4, mine working EDC-14 and South of EDC- and PKSK-10 and South of MPG-1, 13 & 16. Crosses the block 15. It extends from Sirgori-Khurd block boundary at both ends. and dies out near MPG-2 Strike East-West East-West Throw 10 m Down throw 25 m Down throw. Northerly in eastern part. Dies out near MPG-2 Nature Strike fault Strike fault. Evidence Floor level difference on i) Intersected in boreholes MPG-15 either side of fault. resulting in omission of lower set of seams. ii) Encountered in mine working. iii) Floor level difference on either-side of fault.

Coal Seams

Five Coal seams, namely, Seam-I, L-1, III, IV and V have been established by exploration in this block. The local nomenclature of coal seams has been adopted in E.D.C. of Newton Chickli Collieries where the Seam-II of the general sequence of Pench-Kanhan Valley Coalfields is called as Seam-L1 (Leader to Seam-I). The numbering of the seams, as per prevailing practice has been done in descending order. The topmost seam has been designated as Seam-1 and the bottommost as Seam-V. Of the five seams, only two viz, L-1 (Colliery Nomenclature – Seam - 2), IIIA (Colliery Nomenclature – Seam - 3), have been found persistent and attained minable thickness in a sizeable area of the block. In major part of the block, the seam III-B has unworkable thickness (less than 0.90m). Only in two boreholes MPG-12 & EDC-4 it has attained more than 0.90m thicknesses. Similarly, the seam IC also occurs in the entire area but attains workable thickness only in small isolated patches. Seam I A, I B, IVA 1, IV B2 and V group are thin and does not have mineable potentiality. Some thin and imperistent bands of coal also occur the Barakar formation of the block.

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At Ganpati mine, there are three seams i.e. Leader No. 2 seam, No. 2 seam, No. 2 seam and No. 3 seam. The development of the mine is being doen by Bord & Pillar method and Depillaring with Caving method.

S.N. Seam Thickness Range Remarks 1 Leader No. 2 1.2 mtr to 2.1 mtr Partially developed and no further seam working due to poor quality of coal. 2 No. 2 seam 0.9 mtr to 1.6 mtr Developed in patches and no further working due to thiness of seam. 3 No. 3 seam 1.8 mtr to 2.2 mtr Presently development is being done and proposed depillaring in future.

The Grade of the workable seam i.e. No. 3 seam is C&D. The details of which has been given as under :-

Coal Seam Coal Seam Seam Depth Status (Geological (Locally thickness Range Nomenclature) Nomenclature) (Avg) ‘m’ ‘m’ L - 1 Seam - 2 0.34 – 2.22 45 - 315 B & P Dev & Dep III A Seam - 3 0.31 – 2.20 115 - 320 B & P Dev & Dep

Reserve: Geological Minable Extractable (MTe) (Mte) (MTe) L – 1 (Locally Known as : 5.15 2.35 1.63 Seam – 2) III A (Locally Known as : 5.87 2.43 1.61 Seam – 3) Total 11.02 4.78 3.24

The balance Mineable Reserves of the mine is 0.72 Mt and accordingly the life of mine is five (5) years.

MINING TECHNOLOGY:-

The mine is being worked by Bord and Pillar underground method of working by development & depillaring is being done by splitting & slicing method in conjunction with Caving. Coal preparation by solid blasting is being used in the mine. The coal is being produced by both manually by deploying Tub Loaders and Mechanization by deploying 3 No. of SDLs with Rope Haulages by 45 cft Coal tubs. Series of haulages are used in bye and out -bye transport of coal for

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transport of loaded coals tubs. The coal brought to the surface is dumped in bunker from where trucks are loaded with ROM Coal.

DESPATCH:-

The property in the Ganpati Colliery is being worked by Bord & Pillar underground method of working with caving. The coal produced from the mine is being transported to coal stockyard. The coal is then transported to CHP at BG Siding in Parasia & from there to consumer through railways.

About 80 % of total coal production of Pench area is supplied to Thermal power station and 20 % is for other purpose. The coal demand for Satpura Thermal power station is about 6.4 Mt. out of which, Pench area supplies about 1.3 Mt. of coal to it. As such the main consumer for the coal produced from the mine are Power Plants of MPSEB, Satpura, Cement factories etc.

PRODUCTION:-

The production of the mine during the past seven years is as under:-

S.N. YEAR PRODUCTION (te) 1 2004-05 95345 2 2005-06 96445 3 2006-07 73810 4 2007-08 57725 5 2008-09 81416 6 2009 - 10 120000 7 2010-11 105000

PROJECTED PRODUCTION:-

The projected production for the next five years is as under:-

S.N. YEAR PRODUCTION (te) 1 2011-12 150000 2 2012-13 180000 3 2013-14 210000 4 2014 - 15 120000 5 2015-16 60000

MANPOWER:-

The existing manpower of the Ganpati mine as on 01/01/2010 is 496

INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES

Ganpati Colliery is located in Chhidwara District of Madhya Pradesh. The mine is connected through metalled road connecting Parasia and is at a distance of

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about 10 Km from Parasia town at M.P State highway no. l9. The Parasia is linked with Chhindara through broad gauge railway line of S.E. railway and with Amla by a broad gauge line of Central Railway.

Service road:

Service road has been provided connecting Workshop/CHP/Quarry/Project Office etc.

Coal Handling Plant:

Coal handling arrangements at the mine has been installed.

Power supply: i) Power Source : From M.P.S.E.B. ii) Power Transformer : 3 nos. 1.6MVA 33/3.3 KV 250 KVA 3.3KV/550V 315 KVA 3.3 KV/550V

iii) Incoming voltage : 33 KV from K.G. feeder. iv) Outgoing voltage : 3.3 KV-550 Volt, 440 Volt, 110 Volt Connected load Underground load : 705 H.P. Surface load : 255 H.P. Total : 960 H.P.

v) Outgoing voltage : 3.3 KV-550 Volt,440Volt, 110 Volt vi) Power consumption : 4.2 lakh unit/month vii) Connected load : 960 H.P. viii) Maximum demand : 750

Service Buildings

The existing unit workshop at mine level fulfill the day to day needs of basic engineering support in the form of repairs, maintenance, replacement of minor spare parts etc. Major and Capital repairs, overhauls of critical spares and machineries, recondition of assemblies and other works of Capital nature would be carried out at Regional Workshop of the area.

Other Service buildings such as Rest Shelter, Manager office, other service and Welfare building have been provided at the mine.

Magazine:

At Ganpati mine there is one portable magazine of Capacity 450 Kgs.

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Residential Colony:

The residential Colony of Ganpati mine is at Newton Town, which is Common Township. The colony is about 4 Km. away from Ganpati Mine which is easily approachable from mines.

Miner Quarters 210 Nos. ‘B’ Type 24 Nos. ‘C’ Type 4 Nos. LCH/Old quarters 142 Nos. Old Bunglaws 26 Nos. Total 1406 Nos.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL DATA

The baseline environmental studies help in assessing the existing environmental conditions of the study area and identifying the critical environmental attributes which would be monitored after implementation of the project. This would facilitate the comparison of the resultant environmental conditions in the post project scenario with the present conditions and would help in preserving the environment from any deterioration and safeguard the interest of the study.

The baseline data has been collected for various environmental components such as, Air, Water, Noise and Soil for Expansion of Ganpati U/G mine. Baseline data collection has been carried out within 10 KM radius from the boundary of the core zone during October’10 to December’10 (Post monsoon Season). The statutory guidelines and practices with present norms for coal mine projects have been followed during the baseline data generation/ collection.

METEOROLOGICAL DATA

The micrometeorological data is an important tool to assess the ambient air quality of the area. A meteorological station was set up at the roof of the Manager Office located at Ganpati U/G and micrometeorological parameters like temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and the directions, clouds cover and rainfall were recorded for the entire study period. The data were collected on hourly basis during the entire study period.

Generally, light to moderate winds prevail throughout the study period. The wind velocity readings ranges between from = 0.5 m/s to 4.4 m/s. The seasonal average wind speed is observed to be 1.0 m/s.

The analysis of wind pattern during the season shows that the predominant wind direction is from North-East with wind frequency of 15.32%. It is followed by East with 9.06% frequency and North with wind frequency (5.62%).

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The maximum temperature recorded is 309.3OK and the minimum is 280.9OK. The daily average relative humidity values are in the range of 48.1 to 86.1 %. The sky was mostly clear during the study period. The average atmospheric pressure value has been found to be around 737 mm Hg. Rainfall recorded during the study period was 48.0 mm. The daily average rainfall during the study period was calculated to be 0.50 mm.

AIR ENVIRONMENT

The baseline status of the ambient air quality has been assessed after selecting six nos. of monitoring locations in consultation with representatives of M/s CMPDIL. The predominant wind directions (both up and down) have been take into consideration while selecting the sampling locations. Out of the six sampling locations, two locations falls under industrial area and rest four belongs to rural/residential area. Major air pollutants viz. Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), Respirable Particulate Matter (RPM), Sulphur Di-oxides (SO2) and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) were monitored on 24 hourly basis.

AMBIENT AIR QUALITY MONITORING

During the study period, the SPM concentrations at all the six (Two falling in category of industrial area & other four in residential area) locations were monitored. It was observed that in the Core Zone, SPM concentration ranged between 109 to 256 mg/m3 and for remaining four (falling in residential area) SPM concentration ranged between 89 to 177 mg/m3. Thus, SPM concentration was found well below within the prescribed limits, which are 600 µg/m3 for industrial area (Coal Mine area) and 200 µg/m3 for residential & rural areas.

During the study period, RPM concentration for Core Zone falling in industrial area was observed in the range of 41 to 75 mg/m3 and for residential areas RPM concentration was observed in the range of 30 to 58 mg/m3. Thus, RPM concentration was recorded well below the prescribed limits, which is 300 µg/m3 for industrial area (Coal Mine area) and 100 µg/m3 for residential & rural areas. SO2 concentration for Core Zone falling in industrial area was observed in the range of 6.2 to 11.8 mg/m3 and for residential areas SO2 concentration was observed in the range of 5.0 to 8.9 mg/m3. Thus, SO2 concentration was observed well below the prescribed limits, which is 120 µg/m3 for industrial area and 80 µg/m3 for residential & rural areas.

NOx concentration for Core Zone falling in industrial area was observed in the range of 8.8 to 16.8 mg/m3 and for residential areas NOx concentration was observed in the range of 7.3 to 12.3 mg/m3.NOx concentration was observed well below the prescribed limits, which is 120 µg/m3 for industrial area and 80 µg/m3 for residential & rural areas.

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WATER ENVIRONMENT

The physico-chemical characteristics of ground water samples collected from different sources were compared with the standard (IS: 10500). The pH values were recorded in the range of 7.4 to 7.5 whereas the concentrations of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), total alkalinity, total hardness, chloride, sulphate and nitrate were recorded in the range of 450 to 770 mg/l, 6 to 8 mg/l, 100 to 210 mg/l, 280 to 466 mg/l, 188 to 262 mg/l, 21 to 82 mg/l, and 1.2 to 1.3 mg/l respectively. All the parameters in ground water samples are well within the permissible limit for drinking water. Thus, it can be concluded that ground water samples satisfy IS: 10500 standards.

The physico-chemical characteristics of surface water samples collected from different sources were compared with the standard (IS: 2296). The pH values were recorded in the range of 7.8 to 7.9 whereas the concentrations of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), chloride and sulphate were recorded in the range of 290 to 300 mg/l, 8 to 12 mg/l, 40 to 42 mg/l and 36 to 38 mg/l respectively. All the parameters in surface water samples are within the limits specified in the standard IS: 2296.

The physico-chemical characteristics of mine water discharge samples collected from two different locations were compared with the MoEF standard schedule-VI. The pH values were recorded in the range of 6.9 to 7.1 whereas the concentrations of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), chloride and sulphate were recorded in the range of 200 to 270 mg/l, 6 to 34 mg/l, 28 to 66 mg/l, 48 to 68 mg/l and 13 to 24 mg/l respectively. All the parameters in surface water samples are within the limits specified in the General Standards for Discharge of Effluents.

NOISE ENVIRONMENT

The impact of noise may lead to annoyance depending upon the loudness of the noise levels. The environmental impacts of noise generated from the proposed project due to various mining activities can be undertaken by taking into consideration of various factors like potential damage to hearing, psychological response and annoyance. The maximum average noise level in core zones were observed to be 51.7 dB (A) during day time and 45.8 dB (A) during night time which were in good compliance with prescribed levels of 75 dB (A) for day time and 70 dB (A) for night for industrial area. The maximum average noise levels in the close vicinity of the project area were observed to be 47.8 dB (A) during day time and 42.1 dB (A) during night time, which were well within the prescribed permissible levels of 55 dB (A) (Day) and 45 dB (A) (Night) for residential areas.

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SOIL ENVIRONMENT

The main aim of the soil testing is to assess the soil quality of the area to define the present status of soil. It helps in the assessment of impact if any, due to proposed project activities and selection of suitable species of plants for green belt and afforestation as an anti pollution measure. Keeping this in view, three sampling locations were selected so as to represent the soil quality of the entire study area. The soil in and around the project area may be described as silt clayey as per the soil classification by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The pH value of the soil ranges between 6.7 to 7.0. Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potash contents were found in the range of 190.3 and 194.7 Kg/Ha, 11.3 to 11.9 Kg/Ha and 90.3 and 93.4 Kg/Ha respectively.

The monitoring and analysis results do not turn any basis for any adverse impact on the environment.

Environmental Impact Assessment

The impacts (both beneficial and adverse) of mining and its allied activities of the project have been assessed and presented in respect of biophysical & socio- economic environment.

Environmental Impact assessment has been carried out by studying the likely impacts on existing ambient air, water and noise conditions etc. of the area due to underground mining activities at the site under consideration. For this, the latest data generated at existing mine has been taken into consideration as this will give a practical status of the impact of existing mining activities in the area.

Air Pollution Impact Assessment

Impact assessment

The mining and its related activities create ambient air pollution. The ambient air quality is influenced due to the presence of RPM, SPM, SO2, NOx, etc., which are generated due to various activities like handling of coal and its transportation related to the project. Further, the ambient air quality is affected marginally to a varying degree due to the mining activities of other nearby opencast and underground coalmines of the same coalfield. The concentration of pollutants may vary depending upon the various micro-meteorological parameters and the seasons of a year.

The present assessment as validated through monitoring data as explained above, also proves that, mining activities in the area have not affected the ambient air to any significant extent which has become possible because of various Pollution Control Measures are continuously being taken and augmented whenever necessary.

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Moreover, fortnightly monitoring of ambient air quality at all the operating mines helps in identifying any source generating the pollution for which appropriate control measures are then planned for implementation which can be validated in the subsequent monitoring.

The above paragraphs clearly bring out the fact that, impact of mining activities on ambient air is insignificant and the mine under consideration will be no exception.

Impact Assessment on Water

Impact assessment

Mining and its related activities may create water quality problems. The impact of mining at the project on both surface and ground water sources has been assessed and given below: (a)Surface water sources

In order to assess the quality of water being / likely to be pumped out from the mine/existing mine pumped out water has been collected & analysed.

All the parameters are well within the permissible limit. The quality of mine pumped out water from mine under consideration will be no different since, hydro geological regime do not vary significantly across the same coalfield.

However, due care will be taken to treat the mine water discharge by sedimentation if need arise for the mine under consideration.

(b) Groundwater resource

In coal mines, the different aquifers overlying the working coal seam would be contributing groundwater to the mine by gravity drainage which need to be pumped out for safe operation of the mines.

Generally steep draw down cone would be formed in poor potential aquifers thereby the influence area is to small distance and reverse is established in respect of aquifers with high hydraulic conductivity. The Impact of mining activities is likely to be pronounced in the dipside which are estimated by utilising aquifer and mine parameters at final mine depth. It may be appropriate to mention here that the presence of prominent boundaries/water bodies, faults and also interfringing of sandstone and shale beds may restrict the propagation of draw down cone.

Further, the ground water level decline is more in the close vicinity of the pit. The effect will be pronounced in the down – dip side and milder in the up – dip side. But this effect will be temporary in nature and once the project is over, after 2-3 rains, the regime will regain its almost original status.

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Any shortage of water in the affected villages during the temporary period will be supplemented through supply of treated water pumped out from the mine.

Impact on noise level

In order to assess the existing ambient noise level in the surrounding of the mine site corresponding to existing scenario, ambient noise level data has been generated at different villagers and it is seen that existing quality of ambient noise is quite satisfactory.

In case of under ground mines the basic coal winning operations are restricted below ground as such the effect on ambient noise at surface is negligible. The major source of noise is ventilation fan and coal transportation and coal dispatch and the same are effectively controlled by proper design of evasee and maintenance. As such, the impact on noise quality is insignificant.

Socio- economic Impact

Rehabilitation & Resettlement:

There is no resettlement involved in this project. In addition, various socio- economic developmental activities have been taken and will continue to be taken up depending on the felt needs of the community around the project throughout the revenue life of the mine.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

Environmental Pollution Control Measures:

Air, Noise Pollution Control Measures:

a) To reduce air pollution due to dust produced during various mining and allied activities, adequate water spraying would be done at strategic points so that dust do not get air-borne.

b) Black topping of roads.

d) Biological reclamation of subsided area, development of green belt around infrastructure, colony, along roads and in vacant land against villages would be undertaken for arresting dust and noise propagation.

e) Proper maintenance of all Machines etc. will be undertaken so as to reduce harmful exhaust and noise.

f) Regular cleaning of transportation roads will be carried out.

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g) Coal will be transported by covered trucks. No overloading of trucks shall be allowed.

h) Personal protective gears will be given to workmen exposed to dusty and noise work environment.

ii) Water Pollution Control Measures:

a) Domestic Effluent:

Residential quarters are provided with conventional soak pit system.

b) Mine Discharge:

Water collected in the workings will be first allowed to settle in sumps. Sufficiently large sumpage has been provided to eliminate the discharge of un-dissolved suspended solids to the surface along with mine water. The quality of mine pumped out water as being monitored in the subject mine also establishes the fact that, the un treated mine pumped out water does not contain any significant pollution load. Thus, sedimentation pond is being provided on case to case basis.

c) The final treated discharge then be utilized for various purposes e.g. water spraying, watering of plants, etc. Balance quantity if any, will be discharged in natural watercourses. Moreover, analysis of water pumped out from the subject mine shows that even untreated water meets the acceptable limits, as such quality of water pumped out from the mine is not likely to have any significant pollution load even in untreated condition. However, it is proposed to carry out the monitoring of quality of mine discharge and if any undesirable element is found in the sample it will be treated properly before it is re-used.

iii) Remedial measures to control ground water depletion

The following methodology and remedial measures will be taken to minimize the mine-induced impact on ground water levels and also adverse effects in the area.

(a) The water shortage in the villages, if any, in the influence area can be supplemented by supply of water from outside source or from the mine water after treatment.

(b) Regular well water monitoring in nearby villages will be carried out quarterly as per MOEF’s guidelines.

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Disaster Management Plan

Mining is a hazardous industry. There is risk to life and property associated with various mining and allied activities of the project. The project report has been drawn in conformity with the prevailing statutory provisions as per Mines Act, 1952 & CMR 1957 applicable for safety in underground mines. A detailed study has been carried out covering identification and assessment of risk, and recommendation of measures to prevent damage to life and property against such risks.

III. MONITORING & MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION

To have a close watch on the environmental condition and implementation of the various measures suggested, a multi-disciplinary approach is essential.

WCL (HQ) acts as an apex body, which monitors the activities relating to environment at project level through the Chief General Manager.

Chief General Manager of the area co-ordinates the activities of various disciplines in the area to render all necessary assistance at the implementing level i.e. the Project. Nodal Officer (Environment) of the area monitors all aspects of environment on behalf of the Chief General Manager.

He will also take suitable steps for generation of environmental data along with CMPDI team for its analysis and interpretations. Plantation is being done on a large area. At present it is implemented through State Forest Deptt. The horticulturist along with the Supervisor shall only monitor and guide the agency for selection of site, treatment of soil and selection of species.

Sub Area Manager, Ganpati UG is primarily responsible for reclamation of the mined out area. He shall also be responsible for biological reclamation with the assistance of CGM's office.

12.0 MINE CLOSURE PLANNING

Mine closure planning has to be carried out at the starting of the mine and needs periodic reviewing and revision during its life cycle to cope with the geo- technical constraints, safety and economic risks, social & environmental challenges.

Mine Closure cost has been computed based on the guidelines circulated as Annexure to Memorandum No. 55011-01-2009-CPAM of Government of India, Ministry of Coal, Shastri Bhawan, New Delhi dated 27/08/2009. The closure activities will include subsidence survey for a period of 3 years after mine closure, filling of subsidence cracks, fencing of caved out area and post-project monitoring for a period of 3 years after mine closure.

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PUBLIC CONSULTATION

To ascertain the concern of local affected and others who have a plausible stake in environmental impacts of the project / activity public consultation will be done at project site or close proximity for local affected persons with the following activities.

i) The process in which public would be directly involved or participate and indirect responses would be received through different modes of communications. ii) District Magistrate will preside over the Public Hearing process to get public concerns incorporated in the EIA report. iii) Videography of proceedings would be done and would be enclosed with the application for Expert Committee. iv) The proceedings will be signed by DM/ADM in the same day of hearing. v) The proceedings will be displayed in web site and other Govt. offices.

PROJECT BENEFITS

The benefits of the project can be summarized as below:-

- The physical infrastructure in the area will be improved substantially by following ways:-

a) Development of road, thereby improving the communication. b) Improvement in Power, Telephone (including Mobile) facility. c) Improvement in Health Care facility & Educational facility. d) Improvement in Market / Trade & Business.

- The social infrastructure by way of cultural mixing of people of other states with local community glorifying “UNITY IN DIVERSITY”.

Conclusion -

In view of the above, Public Hearing for proposed Ganpati UG Expn. project, Tahsil – Parasia, Dist. – Chhindwara of Madhya Pradesh State for a peak production capacity 0.21 MTPA (enhancement from 0.12 MTPA) with land area of 418.796 ha may be conducted as per EIA Notification 2006 based on the attached Executive Summary both in English and in Hindi along with Draft EIA/EMP prepared as per TOR dated 30.05.2011.

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