UNIT V

Case Studies
EIA case studies pertaining to Infrastructure Projects – Real Estate Development –Major
industries, Power plants – Thermal Power Plant Construction Activities – Electronic Hard
ware Projects – Manufacturing Projects – Waste Processing & Disposal Facilities
EIA Case Study of Thermal Power Plant
The project Proposal
The rapid industrialization and urbanization process coupled with increased use of
electric power for irrigation in Karnataka state has created a situation, where demand for
power has surpassed the growth in power generation. So in order to build up a reliable,
stable and effective power generation system, the integrated operation of hydro and
thermal power stations is considered to be necessary, with thermal power supplying base
load and hydro power as an effective supplement. Based on this strategy, the government
of Karnataka has taken a step to build up adequate thermal power generation capacity.
Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) has proposed to set up thermal power
plant with capacity of 1 x 500 MW in the first stage at the proposed Vijayanagar Thermal
Power Station located at 2.5 kms from Kudatini village, Bellary district.
KPCL generates most of the power required in Karnataka. KPCL is a premier public
sector specialized in power, with a total generation capacity of 3868 MW.
Location of Project
The proposed project covers an area of 1963.5 sq.km and includes Bellary and
Chitradurga districts of Karnataka and Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. Most parts
of the project area are located within Bellary, however the proposed project marginally
touches three other talukas and include 269 villages.
Environment Impact Assessment and focus of the study
Environmental Impact Assessment essentially involves four steps
 Base Line Study (Existing Environmental status)
 Identification,
 Prediction, and mitigation measures
 Evaluation of impacts on environment due to project.
Based on these four steps, the Environment Management Plan (EMP) has been formulated
to implement the mitigation plan in order to minimize adverse impacts.
The scope of the EIA study includes a detailed characterization of the pre-project
environment within area of the proposed project as per the guideline of Ministry of
Environment and Forests, Govt. of India.
Under the scope of the study, the following areas have been selected to be
analyzed from Environmental Assessment point of view:
 Assess the present status of air, noise, water, land, hydrogeology and socio-
economic components of the environment.
 Identify and quantify significant impacts of the proposed project on the
environmental components.
 Evaluate the proposed pollution control measures, to prepare an Environmental
Management Plan, and suggest adequate control technologies for mitigation of
impacts.
 Delineate post constructional environmental quality monitoring program to be
pursued by the KPCL.
Nature and Scope of Issues
Following issues were identified in the process of Scoping.
 Topography,
 Air Quality
 Water Environment,
 Noise Levels
 Land Environment
 Land-use
 Ecology
 Terrestrial Ecology
 Socio-economic Aspects
 Agriculture, employment and income
 Health
 Civic amenities
 Transmission lines
Social and Environmental Setting
The study area covers 25-km radius around the project site. The following sections
describe the existing social and environmental setting within the project area.
Topography
The average elevation of the project site is 475 m above mean sea level. Tungabhadra
is the major river of Bellary district, flows from southwest to the north east of the
proposed project. Daroji tank is another major water source of the area, located at 7.5
kms in of the proposed plant site.
Forest and Wild animals
Forests in the area can be divided into two main categories: dry deciduous and scrub
forests. The deciduous forests are mostly available in Sandur taluk at a distance of about
20-km from the proposed site. The Bellary and Hospet taluks have only scrub type of
forests. No noticeable wild animals are available in the project area.
Climate and Rainfall
The coldest months in the project area is November to the end of February. The
lowest mean temperature of 22.60c in the month of December. The maximum
temperature 37.50C and the mean daily minimum is 18.50C maximum temperature is
42.50C. The average rainfall in the area ranges from 492 mm to 846 mm.
Population Density
The maximum population density has been recorded at Hospet Taluk of 163.20
persons per sq. km. At other places, the population density ranges from 119.71 to 154.04
persons per square kilometer.
Infrastructure and other services facilities
There are 8 government hospitals, 18 private hospitals, 42 nursing homes and 24
health centers. Primary schools, secondary schools and colleges are many in the project
area. Transport facilities and communication services of provided by the States have
served by both road and rail transport. The road network consists of asphalted roads in
urban area as well as kutcha roads in rural area. Drinking water sources constitute wells;
bore wells and water supply schemes.
Geology
The Granite and gneisses of Archean age occupy the low-lying area. Most parts
of the areas have been covered by red soil, thickness of which varies from 1 to 5m.
Thick bed of alluvium varying in the thickness from 2 to 25’ with pebbly bed ranging in
thickness from 3 to 15’ are seen along the entire course.
Impact Assessment and Mitigation measures
Ecology
The study area covers major Sandur State Forest. The proposed site is having an
extensive agricultural land with small patches of vegetative cover. However, the project
activity will not have much impact on the vegetative cover. There are no wild animals in
the project area and the clearing of the area will not create any loss of habitat to the
animals and birds. Development of green belt and forestation program in the affected area
as suggested in EIA report will improve the situation of forest and habitat.
Environmental Pollution
Water:
There is only a marginal increase in the water pollution due to sanitary and
wastewater generated from plant operation. However treatment facilities will be developed
and the used water will be discharged only after proper treatment.
Air:
There will be marked increase in dust and NOx level during construction phase of
project. Different measures have been prescribed to control such pollution. During the
operational phase, there will be some concentrations of SPM and SO2 due to the usage of
fossil fuel, which will be controlled by the use of Electrostatic Precipitator.
Land:
The project implementation will not affect the land because the land procured will
be dry and un-irrigated and non-productive. However the private land will be compensated
and effect on clearing of the vegetation cover will be offset by the green belt
development.
Noise:
During the construction phase the increase in Noise level is 80- 85 dB (A) due to
the erection, construction and commissioning of equipments. During the operational phase
the increase in the sound levels is mainly due to boilers, compressors, and turbines etc.
However, with proper implementation of EMP, this effect can be mitigated.
Aesthetics:
There will not be any change in the topographical characteristics of the area due
to the project.
Human Interest:
The area is having little industrial growth due to non-availability of power. Hence,
with the setting up of Thermal Power Plant as a major industry, will enhance the socio-
economic condition of the project area.
Overall Impact Evaluation: The overall changes are mostly due to the improved
economic output, better land use due to the green belt and minor changes in the NOx
levels. By proper implementation of EMP most of the effects can be mitigated.
Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is the document that ensures the
implementation of mitigation prescriptions for environmental protection and sustainable
development. EMP requires the involvement of project related stakeholders e.g. industry,
Government, regulating agencies and the affected population of the project area. The
salient features of EMP are as follows:
1. Management during construction phase.
2. Management during the post construction phase
3. Post Project Monitoring

Management during construction phase

Following are the briefs measures suggested by EMP for the proposed project:

 Frequent water sprinkling in the vicinity of the construction activity to control

the dust emission,
 Paving the exposed surface to control dust and erosion
 Plantation of bare and exposed area and development of green belts
 Adopt noise control devices, storing of fuels in safe place and dumping of debris
and waste in proper sanitary landfill site
Water pollution and proposed control measures
The sources of water pollution are, ash pond, leaching from coal yard, and boiler blow
down, and oil/water mixture from fuel oil system, sewage disposal and effluent treatment
plant.
The pollution control measures are given below:
 Minimize quantity of effluents through reuse to maximum extent feasible.
 The cooling water chlorination will be carried out to the bare minimum
requirement in order to have minimum impact on the receiving bodies.
 The treatment schemes proposed are constructed before the commissioning the
plant.
 The effluent samples will be collected and analyzed at the inlet and the outlet
daily to ascertain the efficiency of the treatment plants and to meet the statuary
requirements.
Noise Pollution and Proposed Control Measures:
 All the equipment in the power plant will be designed to have a total noise
level not exceeding 85-90 dB (A) as per the requirement of OSHA
(Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standard.
 Turbines will be housed in closed buildings, which will reduce the noise levels
from the turbine generators.
 Steam turbine generators will be provided with acoustic enclosures and the intake
exhaust system will be provided with silencers for abating the noise.
 Vibration damping will be provided to reduce vibrations.
 Use of damping materials such as thin rubber / lead sheet for wrapping the
work places like the turbine halls, compressor rooms, DG sets etc.
 Efficient flow techniques for noise associated with high fluid velocities and
turbulence will be used.
 All the openings like covers; partitions will be acoustically sealed.
 Reflected noise should be diffused by the use of absorbing material on root
walls and floors.
 Earplugs will be provided to the workers, and it should be enforced to be used
by the workers.
 vegetated thickly with species of rich canopy in addition to green belt
development.
Solid Waste pollution and Proposed Control Measures:
 Ash Disposal Plan will be prepared
 An attempt will be made to use fly ash for following products:
1. Building blocks
2. Cement industry
3. Light weight aggregates
4. Area filling
5. Cellular concrete
 6. Ready mixed fly ash concrete
7. Fly ash masonry / plasters
8. Cement asbestos products
9. Soil stabilization in road construction
10. Agricultural manure
 To sell fly ash to other consumers at a nominal price or free of cost.
Thermal pollution and proposed control measures:
 Regenerative feed heating cycle will be used in the process.
 Land management
1. Clearing of the existing vegetation will be kept to a minimum and only to
the required extent.
2. Railway siding, water intake facility and water disposal facility will be so
routed that, apart from techno-economic feasibility and other aspects, it
will require minimum destruction of vegetation. The roadside plantation
will save the existing ecological scenario.
3. Active help from the locals will be solicited in preserving the greenbelt.
They will be educated and discouraged destroying the vegetation for fuel
purposes etc.
 Green-belt development program will be implemented.
Socio-economic Environment
Before taking up of the project, the local population will be apprised of the impending
changes. They will be educated and made to appreciate the implications of the setting of
the project.
The management will adopt nearby villages and undertake development activities to
improve the standards of their Living. Dispensaries, schools, transport facilities, roads,
streetlight, water supply etc., will be made available in these villages. Setting up of
ancillary units and self-employment schemes should be encouraged.
2. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Case study of a Hydropower
project
Introduction:
EIA is a study of the probable changes in socio-economic & bio-physical
characteristics of the environment that may result from a proposed action. It represents a
means of evaluating & simultaneously controlling the quality of the human environment.
Phases of EIA:
I. Organizing the job- in this phase, the action or project is identified & an
interdisciplinary (ID) team is constituted to conduct the analysis.
II. Performing the assessment – in this phase, two major steps are, a site visit
ID team determine the possible environmental impacts of the proposed project & record the
description of the environment as it exists prior to the proposed action.
III. Writing the EIS (Environmental Impact Statement) – in this phase, a major
step is identifying the measures that can be taken in order to minimize the adverse effects.
IV. Review of the EIS: in this final phase, the proposed project is made
available for public inspection by publicity through the press. A period of at least one month
is given for public inspection & submission of comments to the EIS for final decisive
comments of the competent authority. After the final review, rejection or approval of the
Project plan by the authority.
A typical 100 MW hydropower project located in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh,
India was considered for the case study.
Description of the Environment as it Exists Prior to the Proposed Action:
i. Meteorology
The climate of the project area is characterized by cool & dry climate.
Meteorologically, the year can be divided into three distinct seasons viz. Summer,
Winter & Monsoon. June is the hottest month of the year, with mean maximum &
minimum monthly temperatures of the order of 32.90C & 26.60C respectively.
January is the coldest month of the year. The annual average rainfall in the project
area is 1459.2 mm. Relative humidity is maximum (91%) during the monsoon,
while it is minimum (50%) in the summer months of April-May.
ii. Seismology
The area is under the highest seismic zone in Western Himalayas as per IS: 1894:
2002. In the past, the region has been affected with a number of strong earthquakes.
iii. Soil Use:
The soil in the study area is young like any other region of Himalayas. Soil on the
slope above 30 degrees, due to erosion & mass wasting processing, are generally
shallow & usually have very thin surface horizons. The pH of the soil at various
sites lies within neutral range.
iv. Land Use Category:
The major land use category in the study area is forestland (82%). The others are
barren land (10%), agricultural land (3.3%). The areas under snow cover & water
bodies accounted for 2.8% & 2.4% respectively.
v. Water Resources:
River Sainj is the major tributary of the river Beas. The total catchment area of river
Sainj intercepted at the barrage site is 408 km2 of which 176 km2 is permanently
snow covered.
vi. Noise Environment:
Baseline noise data has been measured for 3 seasons. The daytime equivalent noise
level in summer, winter & monsoon at various sampling stations lie within the
permissible limit specified for residential area.
vii. Ecological Aspects:
The proposed project lies in the vicinity of the Great Himalayan National Park
(GHNP). The primates found are represented by rhesus macaque & common langur.
Rare & endangered species have been reported in the study area. Variety of cold
water fishes dominated by trout belong to the area.
viii. Socio-economic Aspects:
As per the primary survey carried out in the villages where land is proposed to be
acquired for the said hydroelectric project, the total affected population of the order
of 436 persons in 148 families. Males & females constitute about 54.36% &
40.82% of the total affected population respectively. About 39.45% of the project-
affected population is illiterate or not going to school. The remaining is either
literate or is presently continuing with their education. All the affected families
reared domesticated animals. No family was houseless. About 37% of the houses
were electrified.
B. Prediction of Impacts:
i. Impacts on Water Quality:
The quantum of sewage generated from labour colony is expected to be of the order of
0.18 MLD. Even at minimum flow, sufficient dilution will occur thus, no significant impact
on water quality of river Sainj during the construction phase.
Effluent from crushers & other sources like conduit, tunnel would contain high
suspended solids. It is proposed to treat the effluents in settling tanks. Thus, no significant
impact is envisaged.
During operation phase, only a small no. of O & M (Operation & Maintenance) staffs
will reside in the colony. The sewage generated would be provided biological treatment
before discharge.
The proposed project is envisaged as a runoff the river scheme with a barrage. At a
regular intervals, the gates of the barrage shall be opened to flush the sediment. Thus, in the
proposed project, sedimentation problem is not anticipated.
The river Sainj will not be completely dry in the intervening stretch due to the
contribution of flow from various streams/nallahs. The reduction in flow or drying of the
river in this stretch is not likely to have any adverse impact on the downstream users as the
villagers use water of small streams or nallahs flowing adjacent to the habitation.
ii. Impacts on Ambient Air:
No significant impact on ambient air quality is expected as a result of operation of
various construction equipments as those would be operated through electricity & not using
fossil fuel. Diesel would be used only in contingency.
During crushing operations, there would be emissions of dust particles. Minimal impact
is expected during construction phase. Therefore commissioning of cyclone separator is
suggested. Further, the labour camps would be located on the leeward side of the crusher
with respect to predominant wind directions.
iii. Impacts on Noise Environment:
The operation of construction equipment is likely to have insignificant impact on the
ambient noise level. However, blasting can have adverse impact on wildlife especially along
the alignment of the tunnel portion.
iv. Impacts on Land Environment:
In a hilly terrain, quarrying is normally done by cutting a face of the hill. A permanent
scar is likely to be left, once quarrying activities are over. With the passage of time, they
become a potential source of landslide. Thus, it is necessary to implement appropriate slope
stabilization & quarry reclaiming measures.
A large quantity of muck is expected to be generated as a result of tunneling
operations, construction of roads etc. Those should be suitably disposed. Normally, muck is
deposited in low lying areas or depressions. The total land to be acquired for the project is
56.763 hectares. A part of this land is required for labour camps, quarry sites, muck
disposal, storage of construction material, silting of construction equipment which will be
required temporarily & returned once the construction phase is over. Permanent
acquisition of land is
required for barrage axis, submergence area, project colony etc.
v. Impacts on Ecology:
Terrestrial Ecology:
Increased human interferences: A large population (3,200) is likely to congregate in the
area during the project construction phase. The population residing in the area may use fuel
wood if no alternate fuel is provided. Therefore, alternate fuel should be provided to save the
trees. Furthermore, community kitchens must be provided using LPG or diesel as fuel.
Acquisition of forest land: The total forest land to be acquired is about 47.993 ha.
Disturbance to wildlife: The operation of various construction equipment & blasting is
likely to generate noise. These activities can lead to some disturbance to wildlife population.
The project area does not fall in the migratory routes of animal.
Impacts on protected areas: During project operation phase, the accessibility to the area
will improve due to construction of roads, which in turn may increase human interferences
leading to marginal adverse impacts on the terrestrial ecosystem. Sainj Wildlife
Sanctuary(SWS) & Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is located within the study area.
 However, no land of those two protected areas is proposed to be acquired for the project.
Aquatic Ecology:
During construction phase: Due to the construction of the proposed project, about 0.8 Mm 3
of muck & debris would be generated at various construction sites. Based on the geological
nature of the rock & engineering property of the soil, about 30% of the muck generated will
be utilized as construction material. The remaining 70% would be dumped at designated
sites.
During operation phase: The completion of the project would bring about significant
changes in the riverine ecology, as the river transforms from a fast flowing water system to a
quiescent lacustrine environment. Amongst the aquatic animals, it is the fish life which
would be most affected.
vi. Impacts on Socio-economic Environment:
Due to influx of labour force: During the construction phase, the most important negative
impact would be due to temporary settling of labour force leading to filth, in terms of
domestic waste water, human waste etc. Impact on Economy: Apart from direct
employment, the opportunities for indirect employment will also be generated which would
provide great impetus to the economy of the local area. Various types of business like shops,
food-stalls, tea-stalls will set up. With the increase in the income levels, there will be an
improvement in the infrastructure facilities in the area.
Impact due to land acquisition: About 56.763 ha of land proposed to be acquired for the
project, of which about 8.77 ha is private land (un-irrigated land). It is observed that, about
216 PAFs (Project Affected Families) are likely to lose land (agricultural &/or homestead) in
various proportions.

Mitigation Measures:
I. Against Loss of Biodiversity:
i. Selection & implementation of appropriate conservation measures based on
the EIA.
ii. Restricting the impacts on ecosystem by constructing various types of
structures underground.
iii. Regeneration of vegetation by planting.
iv. Conservation of a river ecosystem by maintaining flows capable of
maintaining the river.
v. Implementing measures to prevent invasion of forest species throughout
the duration of project, including the construction period.
II. Against the influence of changes in Hydrological Regime:
i. Recovery of the river ecosystem by keeping flow rates required for river
maintenance.
ii. Reservoir management considering the influence of local stakeholders.
iii. Raising & maintaining river levels by installing weirs around estuaries.
III. To Promote Fish Migration & To Reduce Fish Mortality Rates & Damage to
Fish:
i. Installation of fish way in an existing dam.
ii. Implementation of measures to attract with a sodium lamp.
iii. Installation of measures to direct fish at the intake (acoustic type, mercury
lamp).
IV. To Reduce or Eliminate Sediment Flowing into Reservoirs:
i. Reduction of sediment by constructing flood bypass tunnels going around a
reservoir.
ii. Construction of small-scale weirs to trap earth & subsequent removal by
 dredging.
V. To Improve Water Quality in Reservoir & Downstream Areas:
i. Temperature control by considering the growth of fish by installing
selective water intake facilities.
ii. Reduction in water turbidity by selecting the operation of dams &
constructing bypass tunnels
iii. Elimination of the occurrence of abnormal odor or taste of the water in
reservoirs by installing full thickness aeration & circulation facilities.
iv. Reduction of outbreak of red tide (algae) in reservoirs by developing fresh
water red tide treatment vessel.
v. Treatment of heavy metals discharged from copper mines located upstream
of dam.
VI. To Solve Problems on Impoundment of Reservoirs:
i. Reductions in the scale of regulating reservoir levels & preservation of
wetlands by maintaining appropriate water level.
ii. Comparison of alternative reservoir water level reductions reflecting the
results of environmental research.
VII. To Reduce Socio-economic Impacts: Resettlement:
The resettlement programs paying attention to the following points:
i. Securement of employment opportunities so that resettled people may have
a sustainable livelihood.
ii. Maintenance of social infrastructure (roads, water services, communication
establishments, schools, hospitals etc.).
iii. Provision of sufficient information to communities & participation by the
affected population in the resettlement process.
Public Health:
i. Deaths resulting from infectious diseases can be substantially reduced
by improving various facilities including hospitals & community healthcare
centres’ after resettlement.
ii. Information campaigns for community inhabitants, continuous monitoring
of water quality & health risk assessment can be conducted.
Conclusions:
Hydropower is a well established technology that uses water without depleting it. It
is the most reliable renewable energy & emits negligible greenhouse gases. Yet,
there is occasionally debate on the negative social & environmental impacts caused
by some hydropower projects. EIA certainly has a crucial role to play in addressing
environmental issues surrounding project development especially power projects.
The integration of environment into development planning is the most important
tool in achieving sustainable development for such hydropower projects. The
proposed mitigation measures can be followed to make the hydropower project
more environmental friendly.
3. Environmental Impact Assessment of Iron Ore Mine in GOA
1. Introduction
The need for a systematic method of evaluating the environmental effects of a project or a
plan has been recognized for several decades. EIA has been applied to projects and plans of
various scales. It is used in local projects and development, but also for regional and even
global issues. The early EIAs were often focused on inventory of a possible environmental
load and the impact due to this. EIA is a decision-making tool, which guides the decision
makers in taking appropriate decisions for proposed projects. It aims predicting
environmental impacts at an early stage of project planning and design, find ways and means
to reduce adverse impacts, shape projects to suit the local environment and present the
predictions and options to decision makers. By using EIA, both environmental and economic
benefits can be achieved. By considering environmental effects and mitigation early in the
project planning cycle, there are many benefits, such as protection of the environment,
optimum utilization of resources and saving overall time and cost of the project. The
Ministry of Environment & Forests (MoEF), Govt. of India, made environmental clearance
(EC) for certain development projects mandatory through its notification of 37/01/1994
under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. Keeping in view of the experience gained in
environmental clearance process over a period of one decade, the MoEF came out with
Environment Impact Notification, SO 1533(E), and dt.14/09/3006. It has been made
mandatory to obtain environmental clearance for different kinds of developmental projects
(Schedule-1 of notification).
1. Meaning and Process
The phases of an EIA from screening to follow-up are illustrated in Figure 1 below.
A. Screening
The decision to perform an EIA may be based on various grounds, depending on the aim -
policy or project development vs. legal requirements etc. The process to decide whether an
EIA is required or not is generally called screening. Screening is performed in order to
ensure that
proposals that will have a significant impact on the environment will undergo an EIA. The
decisions taken during the early stage of the EIA are of fundamental importance to the
process.
B. Scoping
The EIA process is preliminary concerned with identifying environmental changes that will
be of primary concern for individuals, public interest groups and communities. The term
scoping is used to describe the process of deciding what should be included in an EIA. It
may be seen as a means for identifying the main public concern about a proposal and for
organizing the scientific work for the assessment.
C. Impact identification
Impact identification is establishing the basis for designing appropriate and efficient EIA
studies, focused on particular impact areas. The purpose of impact identification is not to
produce definitive statements about the nature, magnitude and significance of possible
impacts.

D. Checklist
These can be of different types.
 Simple checklists list the components or aspects, usually of the environment, which
might be considered by the assessor, but no other assistance is provided to guide the
impact identification process.
 Descriptive checklists provide additional assistance by indicating, for example, the
specific variables to be measured to characterize each component.
 Scaling checklists go a step further and include simple devices for assessing importance
or significance of suspected impacts. This might be through the use of letter or numeric
scales, assigned after comparison with criteria supplied in the checklist, to indicate the
importance of an impact.
 Questionnaire checklist is a form of scaling checklist but uses a series of carefully
directed questions to elicit information about possible impacts and their likely
importance.
E. Matrices
Matrix methods identify interactions between various project actions and environmental
parameters and components. They incorporate a list of project activities with a checklist of
environmental components that might be affected by these activities.

F. Networks
These are called as effect flow diagrams, used to help in tracing the web relationships that
exist between different activities associated with action and environmental system with
which they interact. They are also important in identifying direct and cumulative impacts.
They are more complex and need expertise for their effective use.
G. Consultations
 With decision-makers, affected communities, environmental interest groups to ensure
that all potential impacts are detected.
2. Objectives of EIA
There are different aims of EIA that will influence the choice of method and the scope of the
study. The aim is dependent on who is the user as well as on the use of the result. Some of
the aims may be regarded as more or less formal like:
a) Project development
The use of EIA in project development may be regarded as a way of avoiding environmental
impacts by using EIA at as early stage as possible in the development. This is also a way of
avoiding costs due to these impacts. This may be used for different projects e.g. construction
or reconstruction of industrial plants, construction of roads, construction of municipal waste
or water purification plants.
b) Development control
Here the EIA is a tool for authorities to prevent adverse environmental impact from the
kind of projects mentioned above. This kind of EIA has been introduced in national
legislation. The performer may be the authority but also it may be the task of the performing
company. Also here consultants may be used for the work.
c) Plan development.
This EIA is a tool for authorities in planning of resource or land use, infrastructure like
roads, railways etc.
d) Policy development
Policy can be evaluated by a government. As an example a government may evaluate the
consequences of promoting a specific type of industry as a major primary industry. Also
here the work may be performed internally or by consultants.
3. Case Study
As a case study, an Iron ore mine in Goa (India) is considered. This case study will show
the implementation and the impact of the EIA.
1) Site Location
The Gotukwadecho Tembo Iron Ore Mines is located at Collem village of SanguemTaluka
of south Goa district of Goa state. The mining was granted by the Portuguese Government
as a concession over an area of 33.35 hecters at Collem Village.
2) Details of the area-
District and state South Goa, Goa
Taluka Sanguem
Village Collem
Khasara No. 37,39/3,38/3,38/4,39/1
Lease Area 33.3500 ha
(Hectares)
Whether the area is recorded in forest -
Area is partly falling in forest and partly in private (non- forest) area. Nearest wild life
sanctuary is Mahavir Wild Life sanctuary. The shortest distance of sanctuary is 1.5kms.
a. Nearest Village is Collem and is 3 kms away.
b. Nearest Railway station is Collem. It is 3 kms away.
c. Nearest Seaport is at Marmagoa. It is 73 Kms.
d. Nearest Powergrid is in Shigao village. It is 3 kms away.

4. Impact Analysis
With respect of collected base line data followings impacts are observed.
a) Flora And Fauna
As discussed before forest is found in vicinity of study area. Major portion of Gotukwadecho
Tembo (Collem mine) mine is under active mining operation. Mining process and Drainage
pattern influences the vegetation and ecological status of crop along with various Flora and
faunas discussed below.
Injuries to which the crop is liable
1) Man
Natural tree growth is frequently cut by the surrounding villagers for meeting domestic
requirement of fuel wood, green manure fencing material and fodder.
2) Animals
Domestic cattle regularly graze in the buffer and damage young regeneration besides
trampling the ground.
3) Wild animals
Damage by Wild Animals is not conspicuous. Wild Boars move around during cashew
harvesting season, besides porcupines also are common but damage to vegetation is
insignificant.
4) Fauna
Major portion of Gotukwadecho Tembo (Collem mine) mine is under active mining
operation besides the core area is devoid of natural trees barring few shrubs,
of the lease. Major herbivorous like Deer, Sambar, Gaurs and Carnivores like Leopard
are not seen in the Core area.
b) Temperature & Humidity
No major increase in temperature & humidity is found in vicinity towns due to proposed
project.
c) Air Quality
Ambient air quality was studied during the last season, Monsoon. Since it was monsoon and
no work was going on in the mines the values are very less and area not the representative
one.
d) Noise Level
The main sources of noise in the area are movement of heavy machinery’s, loading and
transportation of iron ore by trucks. The noise level was measured at a distance of about 5 to
10m from the source for different locations in the mine site and in the buffer zone. The noise
level measurement was carried out during the peak working hours of daytime. But it can be
concluded that the average noise level are less than the prescribed maximum permissible
limit of 90 Db (A) for the shift of 8 hrs working in an industry.
e) Water Quality
To assess the quality of water in the core zone and buffer zone of 5 km radius, water samples
were collected during monsoon. Samples were collected in a season on three consecutive
days. In all, five samples collected. The physico
– chemical characteristics of surface and ground water revealed that Ph of water is slightly
acidic to neutral. The water quality belongs to low electrical conductivity category (E.C.
<500 micromhos/cm). The average electrical conductivity of pit water (KNWI) was 64.41
micromhos/cm with lowest being 37.40 micromhos/cm and highest of 84.40 micromhos/cm.
Hardness of water discharged from the mines was 30.96 mg/l which indicates that water
quality belongs to soft category.
f) Soil Quality
The color of the soil samples varies between reddish brown to brown having salty loam
texture with good drainage. The soils are acidic in nature with traces of total soluble salts.
The soils are low to medium in available nitrogen and medium to high in available
phosphorous and low in potash. Heavy metals are within the limit of toxicity. Total iron
content is very high (14.4 to 31.30%).
Mitigation Measures
Strategy For Conservation Of Endagered Flora And Fauna
Rapid industrialization, rise in population and increasing developmental works have virtually
driven the Wild Life inside remote forests for safety and security. Yet for food and shelter
frequently wild animals stray into adjoining areas and wherever dense tree cover and
undisturbed environment exist they prefer to stay. A safe habitat could be created, in the
mined area by planting large number of fruit bearing, fodder and flowering trees to attract
herbivorous, birds, insects and butterflies. Careful selection of tree species is necessary to
maintain the ecological balance of adjoining forest area. Variety of species is planted in the
core zone.
Efforts Towards Restoration of the Lease Area
Till now tree plantation has been raised over an area within the lease and plantation outside
the mining area in order to restore the ecology of the area. The project aims at prevention of
metal leaching from mine dumps/stacks and enhancement of vegetation productivity through
the use of organic manure. Under the project an area of five hectares of over burden has been
planted with 31 tree species. The saplings were pre-treated with Rhiizobium and
Azaetaobacter besides inoculation of Micorrhizae. Growth of plants and habitat studies
were monitored for three years. For improving the bio-diversity of the lease area
heterogeneous composition of species was aimed at and species like Neem, Shivan, Cassia
siamea, Khair, Jambol, Sissoo, Bamboo, Mango, Lagerstroemia parviflora (Nano),
Terminalia chebula (Harda), T. paniculata (kindal), T. tomentosa (Marat), Ficus glometata
(Rumbad), F. bengalensis (Vad), F. religiosa (Pipal), Pongamia pinnata (Karanji), Mimusops
elengi (Onvol), etc.
Creation of Green Belt
The Ministry of Environment and Forests while conveying the environmental clearance for
expansion of Gotukwadecho
Stabilization and Vegetation of dumps
The existing dump is already settled. There will be very less generation of material. This will
be put on the top of the dump (and not along the slope). Thus major foundation of the dump
will remain as it is. A step dumping will be followed. A stone wall is already built at the foot
of the dump. It will be repaired every monsoon. An additional will ahead of the present one,
will be built, if required. Drains will be made around the dump and along the road going to
the dump. Plantation will be carried out on the slopes of the dead portion of the dump. All
these features will stabilize the dump and avoid flow of silt.
Treatment and disposal of water from the mine Water, which gets stored in the pit, is
because of the rains. No work was carried out during monsoon and pumping is not done
during the period. Most of the water seeps into the strata. Only some quantity of water is
required to be pumped out. This is clean water. It is taken to the
plantation/vegetation on the western side of the lease. Seepage rate is very low. One
hour pumping in a day is sufficient to work. It is also taken to vegetation. A sump and
stone wall will be made near the outlet before it is let to the vegetation. Size of sump will
be 3m x 3m x 1m. Stone wall will be 3m x 1m x 0.8m in size. Considering less quantity of
water these dimensions are reasonable.

Conclusion
The data collection in the process the EIA is the crucial factor to be included in the project
management plan. It will save the time, any complications with the government authorities
and the local crowd, helps in right investment at right time, makes mining environment
salubrious and most important helps to conserve the environmental factors nearby. Database
management software systems can help collect and arrange the data as well as for the
computation purposes to get most efficiency out of the management plan. Not only are the
factors mentioned in this paper included in EIA, but also other important factors like
economic state of the mining company and the strategies implemented by them. EIA is a
vast concept and data factors are of iterating behavior
4. Environmental Impact Assessment Report For Airport Project
As an officer with a consultant firm located in a developing country, you are in charge of
preparing an Environmental Impact Assessment Report for a new airport project in the
capital city. Provide a guideline for such a report, stating important requirements that are
needed. Make appropriate assumptions when necessary.
Introduction
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a study to indentify, predict, evaluate, and
communicate information on the environment of a proposed project and to detail out the
mitigating measures prior to project approval and implementation. The EIA is essentially a
planning mechanisme for preventing environmental problems due to an action. It ensures that
the potential problems are foreseen and addressed at an early stage in the project planning
and design. Thus this will avoid costly mistakes in project implementation, either because of
the environmental damages that are likely to arise during project implementation, or because
of modifications that may be required subsequently in order to make the action
environmentally acceptable. The purpose of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
report is to investigate and assess the principal environmental concerns associated with the
proposed airport. The scope of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study covers
both the construction phase and the operational stage of the airport, investigating and
analyzing
 The effects of aircraft noise on institutional and residential areas, particularly at night
 Increased traffic congestion in the airport approaches
 Fire hazards
 Ambient air quality
 Surface water quality
 Hydrogeology
 Impact on flora and fauna
 Social perception, and
 Emergency preparedness.
This environmental impact assessment (EIA) has been prepared as an evaluation and
condensation of a full environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the proposed airport in the
capital city, Kolkata situated in the developing country, India prepared for the government by
the consulting group, following the developing country , India government’s guidelines and
the methodologies described in Environmental Assessment Requirements and Environmental
Review Procedures and the Environmental Guidelines for Selected Infrastructure Projects.
The guideline is based on (i) the EIA, (ii) the airport project feasibility study (iii) field visits
to the airport project site and local government capital, and, (iv) discussions with local
government and pertinent National Government officials with environmental responsibilities.
The methods used to carry out the EIA include:
(i) review of available literature,
(ii) meetings with National and local government officials
(iii) site visits to the capital city of the proposed airport and surrounding areas,
(iv) discussions with inhabitants near the site,
(v) ambient noise and air quality and surface water quality sampling and testing in the field
and in the laboratory, and
(vi) application of professional knowledge and experience.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT
The project consists of the design, financing, construction, and operation of a new airport.
The proposed new airport will be located in the capital city of the developing country, which
is in Kolkata in India.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
A study is conducted to identify the ambient air quality in the selected area. The daytime
noise in the vicinity of the site is also surveyed. Temperature range in the proposed area is
also identified. It is good to have no forests near the project site as there will not be any
endangered species of flora and fauna. The population at the site has to be relocated. Besides,
the water supply has to be good and the sewerage system is better to be connected to the
drainage system. Finally a good source of electric power is vital.

ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Environmental impacts are anticipated during both the construction stage and the operational
stage.
Construction Stage
The daily water estimated requirement for the project should not affect the supply of water to
the residents in the capital city. Earthwork, soil excavation, ground preparation, and
concreting activities will further increase the TSP level. However, a comprehensive system
of netting to be used as well as constant daily watering of the ground will mitigate the
impact. Solid waste generated from the construction activities will be disposed of daily by
garbage trucks. Employment opportunities and other sources of income for the residents of
the capital city will be generated by the project.
Operational Stage
No significant increase in the level of TSP of the air quality within the vicinity will be
generated during operation. Nevertheless, the terminal building will be fully air-conditioned
and equipped with dust filtration system which that will be regularly checked and cleaned.
The additional aircraft movements will increase the noise level. However, flights are
normally scheduled during daytime to minimize noise disruption to settlements relatively
near the airport. No breach of acceptable airport noise standards will take place. Further, the
flight path of aircraft will not be over densely populated areas. The commercial operation of
the airport may cause a mild migration of potential job seekers to the capital city, since jobs
will be created by the project.
ALTERNATIVES
If the airport is not constructed there would be no effects, either positive or negative, on
physical environmental factors. In addition, no adverse impact would be suffered by the
adjoining city institutions. There would be, however, other significant sociological and
economic losses to the city. The loss of this facility would inhibit terminal development and
the economic and ensuing sociological gains, and would conflict directly with established,
approved master plans and goals. The international passenger congestion would restrict the
growth of terminal activities. Even without the proposed Project, air pollution and noise
levels will increase due to vehicular emissions, heavy traffic flow, and increase in domestic
air flights.
COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
Project costs include (i) civil works, (ii) other construction, (iii) equipment and its
installation, and (iv) consulting engineering design and supervision. These Project costs also
include the cost of mitigating all negative environmental impacts during construction and
into the operating phase, which amounts to $400,000, or about 0.6 percent of the total Project
base cost.For the cost item, the estimated total Project cost of $504 million was used. The
total Project cost includes the total cost of relocation of PAF facilities, the schools, church,
and Community center, estimated at $7 million; the cost of the Fire Prevention Plan; the cost
of sewerage and drainage systems, estimated at $2 million; and such other costs as provision
of a carpark building ($21 million) and road access improvements. In terms of the benefit,
the stream of cashflow after debt servicing but before tax payments (because tax payments
are considered as one of the benefits) was used. The internal rate of return and net present
value are calculated as 21 percent and $506.7 million, respectively. Facilities will also be
temporarily subjected to nuisances associated with major construction, including increased
noise levels, dust, heavier traffic on Andrew Avenue, and other similar effects. On a
permanent basis, the traffic and noise from terminal activities will cause some disturbances.
The disturbances will depend on the arrival and departure of various types of aircraft. There
will be some direct costs related to the relocation of affected residences and facilities.
However, the airport project will result in several beneficial impacts on both a temporary and
a permanent basis.

INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

PROGRAM
During the whole airport project cycle, monitoring of noise and of air and water quality
parameters will be undertaken regularly and continuously. Regular monitoring will be
undertaken to assess the effectiveness and integrity of the mitigating measures being
implemented to minimize the adverse impacts of the airport project activities. Monitoring
will also cover (i) performance of the facility after construction, (ii) verification of proper
effluent disposal at the facility, (iii) yearly physical testing of the airport project area, (iv)
proper solid waste disposal, and (v) traffic management.

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
A social perception survey will be conducted for the airport project by a group of social
scientists. The survey will be undertaken among the residents of the developing country’s
capital city, site of the proposed airport project. The social perception survey will be carried
out by taking a random sample of the residents of the capital city with the primary objectives
of ascertaining awareness of the proposed airport project, eliciting from the interviewees
their acceptance or non-acceptance of the airport constuction, and identifying what in their
own judgment are its positive and negative effects. It is planned that, during the airport
project implementation, the airport project administration, in coordination with the local
government, will keep related agencies and the local population near the airport informed
about the airport project, and will request their views as the project progresses. Based on
consultations with the local government and local residents, the airport construction will
begin.

CONCLUSIONS:
The proposed airport project will definitely be to public advantage. The major benefit will be
socioeconomic. The primary long-range effects on the physical environment include the
relocation of several houses due to road widening, and several institutions. Finally, the
residents of the capital city will be subjected to both temporary and permanent increases in
noise level, which, however, in terms of level, time of occurrence, and distribution will not
cause a major impact. The construction of the proposed airport will assure optimum use of a
section of unused land.
Although it will result in a few limited temporary environmental adverse effects, the life
expectancy of the terminal’s productivity will prove profitable to society on both a regional
and local basis.
The proposed airport development will have no significantly adverse impacts on the
surrounding environment. The construction, while involving soil improvement and
considerable earthwork will, use proven construction techniques and conventional earthwork
methods. Potentially minor adverse impacts can readily be avoided by good site management
and construction practices, particularly related to drainage system design. A simple
monitoring program is needed to cover the construction phase and the first three years of
operation. This will be prepared during the design phase of the project by the engineering
consultants. It will then be implemented during the airport project construction by the
administration assisted by the engineering consultants, and by the staff operating the airport
during airport operation. The monitoring program will also be supervised.
This report has been produced to inform and facilitate the request for a Environmental Impact
Assessment Regulations. In accordance with the EIA regulations, only those issues which
give rise to potential significant environmental effects need to be assessed in detail within the
airport project. Those matters which have been identified as potentially giving rise to
significant environmental effects include:
 Surface transport and access.
 Air and ground noise.
 Air quality.
 Socio-economics.
 Waste.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) when integrated into the existing planning and
decision making structure, provides additional information towards a better decision making.
Project proponent must make sure that the concept of the proposed project does not
contradict any development plans, policies or any decisions of the government prior to the
EIA study.
5.EIA case studies pertaining to Infrastructure Projects – Real Estate
Development
M/s. Gavva AR Real LLP, proposes to develop a Commercial/ IT Building situated at Sy. No. 88 in
Kokapet (V), Gandipet (M), Ranga Reddy (D), Telangana. The project is envisaged to develop in an
area of 12150.25 Square meters. The project is envisaged to cater to commercial building needs of IT
sector of the city with all modern facilities. The demand for quality housing from this area will be
partially met from this, project. The area is fast developing as its proximity to Gachibowli and Hitech
City. The area is coming under Commercial zone as per HMDA master plan.
The land allocation will be optimized to ensure compliance with the FAR regulations of HMDA. The
water requirement of the project during operation will be drawn from HMWSSB. Sewage treatment
plant will be provided to treat the sewage. Water conservation measures will be incorporated in the
plumbing designs. Water recycling/reuse will be adopted by way of using treated sewage for toilet
flush systems and green belt development. The treated sewerage and storm water will be let-out into
the municipal storm water. The required power will be drawn from the DISCOM. The parking
provision follows the guidelines prescribed by FAR and Building Policy of Telangana.

Land Statement of the Project

Area in
S.NO Land Use
Sq. m. Ac. Percentage
1 Plinth Area 4946.89 1.22 40.66
2 Green belt Area 1250.00 0.31 10.33
3 Open Area 5143.94 1.27 42.33
Total Net Plot Area 11340.83 2.80
4 Road Widening Area 809.42 0.20 6.66
Total Site area 12150.25 3.00 100
It is proposed to draw domestic water from the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage
Board (HMWSSB) to mitigate the drinking water demand, which has been encouraging bulk
consumers. The water shortage if any during summer season will be drawn from ground water
sources. During the construction stage, water will be sourced primarily through tankers that would be
arranged by the contractor or bulk supplies from HMWS&SB. During the project operational stage
the water demand shall be sourced bulk supplies from HMWS&SB. The water requirement of the
project during occupation stage is in the order of 555.0KLD.

Topography & Surrounding features of the site

The Land is gently sloping area with elevation difference of about 7 meters. Following are the
surrounding features of the proposed site

North Direction - GAR Sy.No 89 Land South Direction -Gold Fish Duplex houses
Eastern Direction – Open land
Western Direction– Raja Pushpa & Samba Siva Rao land
Baseline Environment:
The baseline environment of the project impact area spread over 10km radius from the site
was studied for air, water, soil noise, ecological and socio economic status. The baseline
status is found to be within the prescribed limits in all respects except the noise levels
which are found to be above the prescribed limits in the during day time in the PIA.
Environmental impacts on Physical Resources
Construction of proposed project requires huge quantities of natural resources like sand,
sub grade and aggregate, and materials produced from natural resources like bricks, cement
and steel. The materials shall be drawn from local sources, and the lead distances range from
2-250 km. the impacts on physical resources of sand will be irreversible. While bricks will be
brought from kilns which use Coal Ash. The materials requirement of steel, cement etc. will
be purchased from manufacturers which in state.
Hence, no major impacts on physical resources as regards the availability and procurement of
construction material are anticipated due to the project.
Impacts on Air Quality
Impacts on air quality during construction stage are likely to be due to operation of
construction yards, material transport on trucks and fugitive emissions from the construction
sites. The model results for occupation stage show slight increase in the air quality and in
worst concentrations are falling within the site, and the results are within the prescribed
limits.
Impacts on Noise Quality
Impacts on noise quality during construction stage will be significant. Hence the construction
near the habitation is proposed only during daytime. The impacts during occupation stage
will be on the plots adjacent to the road. Construction workers will be provided with
protection equipment to guard against the noise impacts. Noise mitigating measures will be
suggested for construction equipment and DG sets.
Impact on Flora
Proposed activity does not involve in removal of major tree species during construction
phase. Only few shrubs and weed species are going to removed during the activity. Thus,
there will be no major adverse impacts are envisaged. There are no migratory corridors,
nesting and Breeding sites within the core zone. No need to take any mitigation measures
specific to these parameters. From the list of floral and faunal species, it is very clear that
there are no Rare or Endangered or Endemic or Threatened (REET) species present in core or
buffer zones.
Impacts on Land use
There is no land acquisition for this project. However the topography of the land being rocky
plains involves cut and fill operation. Erosion and sedimentation are impacts anticipated
during construction. The area development would increase the housing activity in the
surroundings, which is a positive impact, as barren lands will be used for productive usage,
and the negative impacts will be pressure on the infrastructure facilities.
Impact on Surface Water Resources
The degradation of water quality can occur during construction phase from increased
sediment load into watercourses near the construction site. Suitable mitigation measures
proposed, as part of the EMP will ensure that the residual impacts are minimal. Storm water
runoff would increase due to the increase in impervious surface, and rainwater-harvesting
structures will be provided as mitigation measures. The urban storm water joining the storm
water drain may carry pollutants from impervious surfaces.
Impact on Ground Water Resources
Ground water shall be drawn during construction, and will be used to augment the municipal
supply during non-monsoon season if necessary. Exploitation of ground water will have an
impact and the same shall be restricted to ensure resource conservation. This impact will be
marginal, as the ground water will not be drawn continuously.
Impact on Infrastructure
The infrastructure of communication available at present is near saturation; the proposal lay
new connectors between HMDA and GHMC will reduce the congestion. The connector road
between National Highway and the inner ring road widening would facilitate smooth flow of
traffic. With MMTS connectivity & Metro connectivity, congestion of roads will ease in the
next two years period. The additional requirement of power would increase the pressure on
the electrical infrastructure and requires additional power generation in the overall context.
Impact on Human Use Values
The dominant land use in the area is residential, and expected commercial space will increase
the pressure on the residential localities. There is no additional requirement and or
acquisition of land. The provision of public lung space in the project and other community
facilities like community centre/club and commercial rea will reduce the additional transport
required availing the facilities. The project authorities will provide road safety measures to
reduce risk of accidents in the internal roads. The impact on Human us values is marginal.
Environment Management Plan and Mitigation Plan:
For each significant negative impact identified, specialist shall work closely with the
engineering team/technical consultants to suggest practicable measures to avoid or mitigate
the impact. The mitigation of environmental impacts will be by three mechanisms.
 Introduction of mitigation features through the engineering practices.
 Implementation of environmental controls during construction and operation.
  Legislative control involving compliance with Indian environmental laws.
The Environmental management plan shall include an estimate of capital and recurring costs
of mitigation measures and will identify the institutional framework for implementation

Environment Management and Mitigation Measures

The development of the housing project has a number of positive long-term impacts and it is
imperative that a development of this magnitude will have certain negative impacts, which
are spatially limited to the site, municipal authority and or the wider environment. These
impacts can be seen during preconstruction, construction and occupation stages. Through
conscious efforts have been made to minimize the impacts of environmental and social
components, certain adverse impacts have been inevitable.
The mitigation measures suggested to avoid or mitigate the urban heat island effect is to
provide cool roofs, green roofs, greening and pervious paved area. Vehicles delivering loose
and fine materials like sand and fine aggregates shall be covered with tarpaulin to reduce
spills on existing roads. Water will be sprayed on earthworks and temporary haulage on a
regular basis. All the vehicles in the premises and all the transportation vehicles from outside
would be insisted on Pollution under control certificate from RTA. The DG sets will be kept
in enclosures and shall be provided with the stack, which has a stack height as prescribed by
the CPCB.
The mitigate measures proposed is to provide storm water drain system that can carry all the
rain water that is anticipated due to impervious surface and increased runoff. The storm
water drain would also ensure that the sedimentation does not occur, as rainwater-harvesting
structures will help in controlling sedimentation.
The rainwater harvesting system proposed would enhance the water retention and increases
the water table. The drainage would in effect reduce the runoff and increase the percolation.
The overflow from the storm water drains at rainwater harvesting structures shall be
provided with an overflow channel to drain into the roadside plantations water conservation
measures proposed for the housing project which will mitigate the impacts due to
exploitation of the natural resource of water is as follows;
Recycling: all the apartment blocks are provided with treated water recycling for flushing
purposes which will recycle about 40 l/head/day.
There is no productive use of the land at present, and the denudation of plants and trees due
to anthropogenic pressures lead to erosion and loss of productive soil. The development of
housing project would itself a mitigation measure to ensure that the soil would be used for
productive purpose of greening. The topsoil from the earth works of the foundation would be
used in the rocky area, so that productive soil would be available for future greening. The
stockpiling will be done in slopes of 2:1, to reduce surface runoff and enhance percolation
through the mass of stored soil.
The noise causing construction activity shall be taken up during daytime. To protect
construction workers from severe noise impacts, noise standards of industrial enterprises will
be strictly enforced, and workers shall be provided with Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE).
Energy conservation measures proposed are provision of solar power generation, use of solar
street lights and LED lamps in common areas. The plantation shall be taken up during the
design stage wherever the Commercial area is not proposed. Typical landscape plans have
been prepared for the avenue plantation and central green area. Native species are proposed
to be planted. It is proposed to develop about 1250 Square meters for greening.
The amenities include clubhouse, DG sets for emergency purpose, Sewage Treatment Plant.
The parking facility provided for the employees is more than the norms and clubhouse area
will be provided with parking facilities for the guests. The connectivity to this site is very
good with the existing road network and availability of public transport and due to the
proposed road expansions planned by HMDA.
A total budget of Rs. 2.29 Crores is allocated for implementation of EMP and an estimated
recurring expenditure of Rs. 124 lakhs per annum for maintenance of Environmental
Infrastructure and monitoring. Builder will ensure creation of Corpus fund for hand over the
management to Society that forms once the premises is occupied. The legal hand over
agreement will outline the obligations of society on implementation of EMP as committed in
this report.
EIA Case study on Sewage treatment plant (STP):
The proposed STP project of Salem City Municipal Corporation is to set up 44 MLD
capacity sewage treatment plant (STP) at Vandipettai to treat the sewage generated in the
zone –II of city which comprises of area of geographical extent of 383 sq.km. The cost of the
project is Rs.30.8 crores.
Land use
The site of the proposed STP falls under the land use category of commercial purpose in the
existing and proposed condition.
Environmental Setting
The ecologically significant systems within the study area of the project site are listed and
briefly discussed below:
a) Biological resources It was found that the location is devoid of any endangered flora
and fauna within 10 km radius.
b) National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuary There are no national parks or wildlife
sanctuary in the study area.
c) Lakes / Reservoirs / Dams In the study area there are no major lakes, reservoirs and
dams.
d) Rivers / Streams Thirumanimuthar River lies at a distance of 190 m from the site
e) Sea / Estuary/ Mangroves There is no sea/ estuary/ mangroves in the study area.
f) Defence There is no defence installation nearby the unit.
Sewage Treatment Method
Treatment technology based on FAB (Fluidized Aerobic Bioreactor) also known as MBBR
(Moving Bed Bio Reactor) will be used for treatment of 44 MLD of sewage. Such sewage
treatment plants of a medium or small scale require a simple equipment composition and
easy maintenance. The FAB has largely simplified the washing mechanism by washing
filtering media parallelly to the reactor processing. The wastewater is fed at the reactor top
and flows downwards through the packed bed of filter media with a several-millimeter
diameter. While passing through the packed bed, the sewage undergoes biological treatment
by contacting the aeration air and Suspended Solids are removed.
Then the treated water is taken out from the side wall of the reactor. At the same time air is
supplied to the bottom of the air lift pipe. By the air lifting through the pipe, the filtering
media together with the sludge is into the pipe and transported to the top area.
The filtering media with sludge is discharged by separating screen on the top are returned
onto the packed bed, and the sludge is discharged as washing wastewater.
The advantages are that the facilities has simplified device requires only the air-compressor
for the air-lift, and not the back-washing pump, blower, or tank that was needed for the fixed
bed type reactor. Construction work is also simplified as the steel reactor is manufactured at
the factory to facilitate the field work, and the construction term can be shortened.
 FAB Process Activity
ENVIRONMENT SETTING:
1. Baseline Study
The baseline details recorded would form the basis for the potential impacts due to the
proposed STP project. The proposed STP project is studied with reference to the
environmental sensitive components as defined in the Environmental and Social Framework
of TNUDF.
2. Meteorology
Salem experiences a tropical wet and dry climate. The hottest part of the year is May to June,
with maximum temperatures around 36 –38°C. The coolest part of the year is January, with
minimum temperatures around 18 – 20°C. The average annual rainfall is about 35 cm.
3. Topography
Salem district forms part of the upland plateau region of Tamil Nadu with many hill ranges,
hillocks and undulating terrain with a gentle slope towards east.
4. Geology
Major part of Salem district is covered by Red insitu and Red Colluvial soils. Block soils are
mostly seen in Salem, Attur, Omallur and Sankari Taluks. Brown Soil occupies major portion
of Yercaud and parts of Salem and Omallur Taluks and the Alluvial Soil is seen along the
river courses in Omallur and Sankari Taluks. Mixed soil is occurring only in Attur Taluk.
5. Seismic Zone
The Salem City Municipal Corporation lies in seismic zone III which covers the proposed
project site too.
6. Air Environment:
Pre calibrated Respirable Dust Samplers (RDS) were used for monitoring of Particulate
Matter (PM 2.5 & PM 10) and gaseous pollutants like SO2 and Nox. all the ambient air
quality parameters are well within the National Ambient Air Quality (NAAQ) Standards at
all the locations.
7. Noise Levels:
Noise readings were taken for day time as well as at night time. Portable sound level meter
was used for recording noise levels. The day time noise levels are in the range of 54.5 dB (A)
to 57.2 dB (A) and night time noise levels are in the range of 50.5 dB (A) to 52.8 dB (A).
The noise levels measured during the study period were found to be within the limits
prescribed by CPCB.
8. Water Environment
The major surface water body in the study area is Thirumanimutharu River which is the
tributary of Cauvery River. The objective of the baseline ground water quality study was to
establish the ground water quality of the study area. This will also be useful for assessing the
conformity to the standards of ground water quality during the construction and operation
phase of the project.
At all locations, pH values were in the range of 7.4 to 7.7 with agreeable colour, taste and
odour. Chloride and Sulphate values were in the range of 96 to 329 mg/l and 44 to 115 mg/l
respectively. Hardness values were found to be in the range of 98 to 320 mg/l. Fluoride
values were found upto 0.2 mg/l. Iron value was found to be a maximum of 1.2 mg/l. While
comparing with IS: 10500 – 1991 norms, the water quality is found to be within the
prescribed standards.
9. Soil Environment
At each location, samples were collected using augers and analyzed for nutrient and
engineering parameters. At all locations, pH ranges from 7.5 to 7.7. Nitrogen, Potassium and
Phosphorus are found to be in the range of 0.028 to 0.036%, 0.002 to 0.005 % and 0.0031 to
0.0058 % respectively. Texture Class was found to be loamy sand to sandy.
10. Biological Environment:
The flora and fauna identified in the study area are commonly found and not specific to the
region due to the absence of forest in the study area. Moreover, there are no National Parks,
Wild life sanctuaries, Bird sanctuaries within 10 Km. radius of the project site. There is no
rare and endangered species in the area. The prominent tree species include coconut, mango,
neem, tamarind, eucalyptus etc. The prominent species among the fauna include cats, cows,
buffaloes etc.
11. Socio Economic Study
The social environment refers to demographic structure of the area incorporating population
dynamics, infrastructure resource base and health status of the community, while economic
environment refers to land utilization pattern, land values, employment generation, industrial
development and sustainability of the project in financial term.
The baseline study area of the proposed project study reveals that the area does not contain
any ecological sensitive areas.
As the proposed project site is owned by Salem municipality and the site and its surroundings
is free from any habitations. Thus eliminating the need for any relocation of the population.
12. Development of green belt
Green belt will be developed along the periphery of the STP premises. The proposed species
suitable for Salem region as per CPCB recommended are India Beech, Manila tamarind,
Indian mast tree, Indian fig, Sacred fig, Neem tree, Crape jasmine, Shoe flower, Pin jasmine.
The tree species act as dust barrier and also help in the absorption of pollutant gases.
Impact Assessment:
1. Impact on Air Quality:
During the construction phase, operation of construction machinery at the site and use of
vehicles for transporting the construction material are the primary sources of air pollution.
Combustion of diesel will be the principal cause of air pollution during the construction
phase. To provide estimate of emission of air pollutants at the construction site, fuel
consumption rates and approximate operation schedule for major construction machinery
were estimated. During the period of maximum construction activity the fuel consumption at
the project site is expected to be about 100 litres of diesel per hour.
2. Impact on Noise Levels:
During the construction phase, the major sources of noise pollution are movement of vehicles
transporting the construction material to the project site and the noise generating activities at
the site like concreting, mixing, casting and materials handling.
Noise generated during operation will not be significant. It is, however, required that
adequate green cover to the site is provided.
3. Impact on Water Resources:
Water requirement during the construction phase of the project is estimated to be about 120
KLD. It has been proposed to procure water through tankers to meet the requirement during
construction. During the construction phase care need to be taken to also provide adequate
sanitary toilets equipped with septic tanks and soak-pits for the construction workers.
The water demand during the operation phase will be mainly to provide water to the
employees involved in the administration, operation and maintenance of the STP. Rain water
harvesting will be an important water conservation measure.
4. Impact on Water Quality
The project therefore will not have any adverse impact on local ground water and/or surface
water resources. The treated sewage from the STP is proposed to be sent to existing drain.
Alternatively, taking precedent from the existing STPs of Chennai city, the treated sewage
may be sold to private users based on rates fixed by the Authorities. Few of the options
where treated sewage may be put to beneficial uses include:
Sale to industries requiring huge quantity of water to meet the cooling water need. Tertiary
treatment may be done to meet standards.
To be made use by various government departments for the development of social farm
forests thus achieving afforestation goals.
Irrigation of traffic islands using treated sewage
Since the treated sewage is not let out to reach the soil and underground aquifer, there will
not be negative impact on the water resources.
5. Impact on Land Environment
The land identified for the project development is part of government lands, acquisition of
private lands is not entailed for the project. Surrounding areas are already in commercial
area. Hence, no disturbance to the local ecology is expected. There will not be any change in
the topography of the region, as the land coverage area of STP units will be of small area.
6. Impact on Socio-Economic Environment
Local people would also get job opportunities during construction and operation phases of
the project. Thus the project is expected to contribute to the overall development of the area.
There is no issue of resettlement or rehabilitation as the proposed site belongs to the
municipality.
IMPACT MITIGATION MEASURES
Construction Phase
1. Impact on Air Quality
For mitigation of the impacts on air quality during construction phase, following measures
are suggested.
Vehicles used for transportation of construction material, will be covered to avoid fugitive
emission.
Idling of delivery trucks or other equipment will not be done during loading and unloading of
materials.
All construction vehicles will be maintained in such a way so as to comply with air emission
standards.
Dust suppression measures such as sprinkling of water will be carried out regularly.
Adequate improvement of access to withstand the movement of heavy construction vehicles.
2. Impact on Noise Levels
To mitigate the impacts on noise levels during the construction phase, the following
measures are suggested.
Restriction on the usage of noise generating activities and traffic movement in the residential
areas to day light hours. Contracts should specify that the construction equipment should
meet the noise and air emission levels as per EPA Rules, 1986.
Generator sets should be provided with noise shields around them.
Vehicles used for transportation of construction material should be well maintained.
The workers operating high noise machinery or operating near it should be provided with ear
plugs.
3. Impact on Micro Climate
Planting of large numbers of trees, of species like Poongamia Glabra, Morinda Gtinctoria,
Azadirachta indica, Thespesia Populnae, Enferolobum Samana etc along the roads and on the
designated open spaces is envisioned, to ensure the improvement of microclimatic condition
of the project site.
4. Impact on Water Resources
During the construction phase care need to be taken to also provide adequate sanitary toilets
equipped with septic tanks and soak-pits for the construction workers. Wastewater discharges
from construction site should not be directly let into the local water resources.
The impact on water resources due to the operation of sewage treatment plant is insignificant
due to the reason that, in the absence of the STP plant, at present the sewage generated in the
Salem City Municipal Corporation area is discharged haphazardly without any treatment.
5. Storm Water Drainage
It is proposed to construct individual rainwater harvesting pits at regular intervals at the site
level, along the roads, opens spaces for the disposal of storm water from the common areas
of the development.
6. Safety and Health related Measures
During the construction and operational phase, safety precautions will be practiced in order
to prevent any possible occurrence of accident. For this, it will be ensured that all machines
used shall confirm to the relevant Indian standards Code and undergo regular inspection.
During construction phase, Personal Protective Equipments (PPE) such as Protective
footwear and protective goggles, Welder’s protective eye-shields shall be provided to
workers who are engaged in welding works, earplugs shall be provided to workers exposed
to loud noise, and workers working in crushing, compaction, or concrete mixing operation.
The workers will also be provided all necessary safety appliances such as helmets, safety
belts, earplugs, mask etc.
A well maintained first aid kit including an adequate supply of sterilized dressing materials
and appliances will be made available.
Only the working staff and authorised personnel will only be allowed inside the STP
premises.
Drinking water facility will be made available. Also, Adequate ablutions and change
facilities to promote appropriate occupational health and safety (OHS) will be provided.