Final Environmental Impact Assessment Report for

Exploratory drilling (3 wells) under NELP VII

Onshore Block: WB-ONN-2005/3, West Bengal

[Type the document subtitle]

Corporate Health Safety and Environment

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd.
(A Govt. of India Enterprise),
th 1
8 Floor, Scope Minar, South Tower, Laxmi Nagar
Delhi-110092
 August’ 2014

Final Environmental Impact Assessment Report for

Exploratory Drilling (3 Wells) under NELP VII
Onshore Block: WB-ONN-2005/3, West Bengal
by ONGC

Project Leader & EIA Coordinator

Dr. J.S.Sharma
General Manager (Chem),
Head Environment
Corporate HSE, Delhi

Basin Representative

Debashis Chakravorty
Chief Geologist, MBA Basin

Corporate Health Safety and Environment,

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd.
(A Govt. of India Enterprise),
th
8 Floor, Scope Minar, South Tower, Laxmi Nagar
Delhi-110092

2
 Team from Project Proponent
EIA Sector Number Name of Offshore & On land oil & gas
as per NABET 2 Sector exploration, development &
production

EIA Coordinator
Name Dr. J.S.Sharma
Signature & Date

Period of Involvement March‟2013 onwards

Contact Information ONGC, CHSE, SCOPE Minar, 8th Floor, Laxmi Nagar, New
Delhi. Mobile:9868282230
Functional Area Experts
Sl.No. Name Functional Area
1. Dr. J.S.Sharma i. Air Pollution Control
ii. Water Pollution
iii. Solid and Hazardous Waste
iv. Air Quality Modelling
2. Dr. A.K.Agnihotri Solid and Hazardous Waste
3. Dr. ArchanaYadav Ecology and biodiversity
4. Vineeta Kumari Sattawan Ecology and biodiversity as Associate
5. Ram Raj Dwivedi Soil Conservation
6. S.K.Lijhara Soil Conservation
7. Devendra Kumar Trivedi Noise and Vibration
8. Lohitesh M D i. Air quality modelling
ii. Air Pollution Control
iii. Noise/Vibration
9. Sushanta Kumar Mohapatra Socio-Economy
10. Nilay Meshram i. Solid and Hazardous Waste
ii. Land Use
11. B.C.Kapale Land Use
12. Vineeta MehataPandit Land Use
13. Hemendra Jagdish Godbole i. Water Pollution Control
ii. Solid and Hazardous Waste
14. Ravi Mishra i. Hydrology and Ground Water
ii. Geology
15. Amlan Chakraborty Risks and Hazard

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 Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 15-21

CHAPTER – 1
1.1 Introduction 22

1.2 Site Details 23

1.3 Scope of EIA Study 24

1.4 Approved Terms of Reference (TOR) for EIA Study 28

CHAPTER – 2

2.1. Introduction 33

2.2. Project Justification 33

2.3 Project Description 34

2.4 General Requirements of Drilling 41

2.5 Expected Project cost (Exploration cost) 45

2.6 Project Benefits 45

CHAPTER–3
3. Introduction 46

3.1 Air Quality 46

3.2. Ambient Air Monitoring 47

3.3 Micrometeorology 47

3.4. Selection of Sites 49

3.5 Results of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring 51

3.6 Discussion Regarding Ambient Air Concentration of 55

Air Pollutants NAAQS

3.7 Emission Inventory 56

3.8 Noise Quality 59

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3.9 Water Environment 63

3.10 Soil Characteristics 73

3.11 Ecology 87

3.12 Sanctuary, National Park & Forests 90

3.13 Lakes, Ponds, Reservoirs & Fisheries 93

3.14 Demography and Socio-economics 93

3.15 Climatology 95

3.16 Defense Installations, Tourist, Historic Cultural 97

Places

3.17 List of large scale industries in Hooghly district 97

CHAPTER – 4
4.0 Anticipated Environmental Impact & Mitigation 101-119
Measures

4.1 Environmental Impacts Associated with Drilling 101

4.2 Impact on Air Environment
104
4.3 Impact on Noise Environment
103

4.4 Impact on Land Environment 104

4.5 Impact on Water Environment 106

4.6 Impact on Biological Environment 107

4.7 Impact on Socio-economic Environment 108

4.8 Impact on Aesthetics 109

4.9 Mitigation Measures 109

CHAPTER – 5
5.1 Environment Management Plan 120

5.2 General Recommendations 121

5.3 Environment Management Plan
122

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5.4 Waste Management Plan
124
5.5 Waste Mud & Drill Cuttings Disposal Plan
125
5.6 Environment Protection and Reclamation Plan
126
5.7 Occupational Health Hazards
127
5.8 Plans for Well Site Operation and/or Abandonment
129
5.9 Drilling Program Safety Guidelines
129

CHAPTER – 6
132-159
6.0 Risk Assessment Study

132
6.1 Introduction

133
6.2 Maximum Credible Accident (MCA) Analysis

6.3 Past Accident Data Analysis 134

6.4 Consequence Analysis 135

6.5 Scenario Identification

136

6.6 Injuries to Human Population 137

6.7 Results and Discussions 138

6.8 Risk Mitigation Measures 139

6.9 Disaster Management Plan (DMP) 147

6.10 Oil Spill Response Plan 153

CHAPTER – 7

7.0 Environment Public Hearing 160

8.0 Conclusion 162

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 List of Figures

Fig-1.1 Location map of Block WB-ONN-2005/3

Fig- 2.1 Effluent Treatment Plant

Fig-2.2 General view of Oil Drilling Rig

Fig-2.3 Stationary Drilling Outfit

Fig-2.4 Drilling Fluid Circulation

Fig-3.1 Block Map

Fig-3.2 Wind rose diagram around Hugli District

Fig-3.3 Ambient Air Monitoring Stations

Fig-3.4 Short term 24 hourly GLCs of NOx

Fig-3.5 Noise Monitoring Station

Fig-3.6 Location map of Water Monitoring Station

Fig-3.7 Soil Map of Hugli District

Fig-3.8 Soil Sampling Sites

Fig-3.9 Satellite Map for Land Use Pattern

Fig-3.10 Population Growth

Fig-3.11 Average Annual Rainfall

Fig-4.1 Impact Network of air environment

Fig-4.2 Impact Network of water environment

Fig-4.3 Impact Network of land environment

Fig-4.4 Impact Network of noise environment

Fig-4.5 Impact Network of socio economic environment

Fig-5.1 Flow chart of Kick control

Fig- 5.2 Contingency plan for Blow out Control

Fig-6.1 Decision Tree

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List of Tables

Table-2.1 Description of the Contract Area

Table-2.2 Coordinates of Block: WB-ONN-2005/3

Table-2.3 Details of Drilling Activities

Table-2.4 Ingredient of Water Based Drilling Fluid

Table-2.5 Special Additives and their Function in Water Based Drilling Fluids

Table-3.1 Details of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Sites

Table-3.2 Average, Cumulative Percentile, Maxima & Minima Oxide of Nitrogen (NOx)

Table-3.3 Average, Cumulative Percentile, Maxima & Minima Sulphur dioxide (SO2)

Table-3.4 Average, Cumulative Percentile, Maxima & Minima Particulate Matter (PM 10)

Table-3.5 3.5 Average, Cumulative Percentile, Maxima & Minima Particulate Matter (PM 2.5)

Table-3.6 Levels of Particulate Associated (Pb, Ni, As and BaP) Toxic Pollutants

Table-3.7 Levels of Volatile Organic Pollutants (Spot concentration)

Table-3.8 National Ambient Air Quality Standards

Table-3.9 Emission Inventory for proposed operation of DG set during exploratory drilling

Table-3.10 24-hour 2nd Highest Ground Level Concentrations

Table-3.11 Ambient Air Quality Standards in Respect of Noise

Table-3.12 Noise Level Measurements

Table-3.13 Details of Water Quality Monitoring Sites

Table-3.14 Standard Limits for Drinking Water (IS 10500:1991)

Table-3.15 Analysis of Water Samples

Table-3.16 Physico-Chemical characteristics of Mundeswari River

Table-3.17 Biological Parameters – Phytoplankton

Table-3.18 Phytoplankton Species Observed in Water Sample

Table-3.19 Biological Parameters – Zooplankton

Table-3.20 Zooplankton Species Observed in Water Sample

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Table-3.21 Major Soil Types

Table-3.22 Soil Sample Locations

Table-3.23 Soil Sample from Khatak

Table-3.24 Soil Sample from Parvatipur

Table-3.25 Soil Sample from Adambad

Table-3.26 Soil Sample from Jangipur

Table-3.27 Soil Categories at Different pH

Table-3.28 Amount of Macro Nutrients present in surface soils

Table-3.29 Average Total Phosphorus Content of Soils of Various States

Table-3.32 Trace metal analysis in soil sample
Table-3.30 Nitrogen Content of Major Soil Groups of India
Table-3.33 Land Use Pattern
Table-3.31 Conductivity Ranges in Soils
Table-3.34 Production and Productivity of Major Crops

Table-3.35 Composition of Forests in the District

Table-3.36 List of Bird in Hugli District

Table-3.37 Population Details

Table-3.38 Percentage Literacy

Table-3.39 Occupational Pattern

Table-3.40 Monthly rainfall in the district of Hugli

Table-3.41 Maximum – Minimum Temperature data of Hugli (°C)

Table-4.1 Noise Exposure Levels for Drilling Rigs

Table-4.2 Characteristics of Typical Solid Wastes Produced at the Drill Site

Table-4.3 Prediction of Qualitative Impacts on Socio-economic Environment

Table-4.4 Expected Change in Subjective Quality of Life

Table-4.5 Expected Change in Cumulative Quality of LIfe

Table-5.1 Classification of waste generated during proposed drilling

Table-6.1 Metrological Conditions for Consequence Analysis

Table-6.2 Pasquill – Giffard Atmospheric Stability Classes

Table-6.3 Damage Criteria in kW/m² for Heat Load

Table-6.4 Damage Caused at Various Heat Loads

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Table-6.5 Summary of Consequence Analysis for Well Blowout Scenario

Table-6.6 Summary of Consequence Analysis for Well Blowout Scenario

 LIST OF ANNEXURES

I QCI Accreditation of ONGC

II CPCB Accreditation of BHEL

III Gazette notification of PCRI, BHEL

IV Approved TOR

V Description Of Cost Elements

VI Form-I

VII Pre-Feasibility Report

VIII
ONGC HSE Policy
IX
Water Balance Diagram
X
Guidelines for Disposal of Drill Cuttings & Drilling Fluids for Offshore and On-
Shore Oil Drilling Operations
XI TOR Extension

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Environment Appraisal Committee (EAC) Industry-II of MoEF during 27th Expert
Appraisal Committee, (Industry) meeting held during 21st to 22 nd September‟ 2011,
granted TOR for the project “Exploratory drilling (3 wells) under NELP VII Block:
WB-ONN-2005/3, West Bengal by M/s ONGC vide F.No. J-11011/396/2011- IA II
(I) Dated 4thNovember’2011.

Complilance status of the TOR given as under;

Sl.No. TOR point Compliance
1. Executive summary of the project Page no: 15-21
2. Project description, Project objectives and Chapter 2.3, Page:34
project benefits Chapter 2.3.2, Page:35
Chapter 2.6, Page:45

3. Site details within 1 km of the each proposed Chapter 1.2, Page:23

well, any habitation, any other Chapter 2.3.1, Page:34
installation/activity, flora and fauna, Chapter 3.4, Page:49
approachability to site, other activities including Chapter 3.10.3
agriculture/land, satellite imagery for 10 km Page:86
area.
4. Details of forest land involved in the proposed Proposal is in
project. A copy of forest clearance letter, if agricultural land. No
applicable forest land is involved.
Chapter 3.12, Page:90

5. Permission from the State Forest Department Not Applicable Chapter

regarding the impact of the proposed plant on 3.12 & 3.12.1. Page:90
the surrounding National Park/Wild Life
Sanctuary/ Reserve Forest/Eco sensitive area, if
any. Approval obtained from the State/Central
Government under Forest (Conservation Act,
1980 for the forestland should be submitted.
6. Distance from nearby critically/severely polluted There is no critically
area as per Notification dated 13th January, polluted area in the
2010, if applicable vicinity of the site.
Nearest critically
polluted area is Howrah
& Durgapur, more than
43 km away. Annexure-
V S.N-26
7. Does proposal involves rehabilitation and No
resettlement? If yes, details thereof
8. Details of project cost. Chapter 2.5. Page:45
Annexure-V

9. Environmental considerations in the selection of Chapter 2.1. 2.2, 2.3,

the drilling locations for which clearance is being Page:33-34
sought. Present any analysis of steps suggested
for minimizing the foot print giving details of
drilling and development options considered.
11
10. Baseline data collection for air, water and soil for Chapter 3.1. Page:46-
one season leaving the monsoon season in an 47. Ch-3.8. Page-59-62
area of 10 km radius with centre of oil field as its Ch-3.9. Page-63-70
centre covering the area of all proposed drilling Ch-3.10. Page-73-83
wells.
I. Topography of the project site
ii. Ambient Air quality monitoring at 8 locations Chapter 2.3.2A.
for PM10, SO2, NOx, VOCs, Methane and Non- Page:35
methane HC. Chapter 3.1 to 3.5
iii. Soil sample analysis (physical and chemical Page:46-53
properties) at the areas located at 5 locations. Chapter 3.10 Page:73-
iv. Ground water and surface water quality in the 83
vicinity of the proposed wells site. Chapter 3.8 Page:59-
v. Climatology and meteorology including wind 62
speed, wind direction, temperature, rainfall, Chapter 3.9 Page:63-
relative humidity etc. 70
vi. Measurement of Noise levels within 1 km
radius of the proposed wells. Chapter 3.3 Page:47
vii. Vegetation and Land Use; Animal resources. Chapter 3.15 Page:95

Chapter 3.8 Page:59

Chapter 3.11 Page: 87.
Chapter 3.12.2 Page:
91.
11. Incremental GLC as a result of DG set operation Chapter 3.7 Page:56-
58
12. Potential environmental impact envisages during Chapter:4.1,
various stages of project activities such as site Chapter:4.2,
activation, development, operation/maintenance Chapter:4.3,
and decommissioning. Chapter:4.4,Page: 101-
104
13. Actual source of water and Permission for the Chapter: 2.4.1, Page:
drawl of water from the Competent Authority. 41. Water Balance
Detailed water balance, wastewater generation diagram attached in
and discharge. Annexure- X
14. Noise abatement measures and measures to Chapter: 4.3. Page:
minimize disturbance due to light and visual 103-104. Chapter:
intrusions in case coastally located. 5.3.2. Page: 123
15. Treatment and disposal of waste water. Chapter: 5.4.1, 5.4.2,
5.5 Page: 101,102
16. Treatment and disposal of solid waste Chapter: 5.4.1, 5.5
generation Page: 125
17. Disposal of spent oil and loose. Chapter: 5.4.1, Page:
125
18. Storage of chemicals on site. Chapter: 2.4.1, Page:
41
19. Commitment for the use of WBM only. Chapter: 5.2.1, Page:
121
20. Mud makeup and mud and cutting disposal-all Chapter: 5.2.1, 5.2.2
options considered should be listed with Page: 121, 122

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 selective option.
21. Hazardous material usage, storage and Chapter: 5.4 to 5.6.
disposal. Page: 98-100
22. Disposal of packaging waste from site. Chapter: 5.4.1 to 5.6.
Page: 124-126
23. Oil spill and emergency plans. Chapter-6.10, Page-
153
24. H2S emissions control Not Applicable
25. Produced oil handling and storage No oil will be produced.
It is exploratory project
26. Details of scheme for oil collection system along Not Applicable
with process flow diagram and its capacity.
27. Details of control of air, water and noise Not Applicable
pollution in oil collection system.
28. Disposal of produced/formation water. Not Applicable
29. Whether any burn pits being utilized for well test Chapter: 5.4 to 5.8.
operations Page: 124-126
30. Restoration and decommissioning plans which Chapter: 5.4.1, 5.5
should include mud pits and wastage restoration Page: 124-126
also and documentation and monitoring of site
recovery.
31. Measures to protect groundwater and shallow Chapter: 5.4.1,5.6
aquifers from contamination Page: 124-126
32. Risk assessment and disaster management Chapter 6.1: 132
plan for independent reviews of well-designed Chapter 6.9, Page:147
construction etc. for prevention of blow out.
33. Environment Management Plan Chapter: 5.1, 5.2, 5.3,
5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8
Page: 120-129
34. Documentary proof of membership of common Documentary proof
disposal facilities, if any. attached. Annexure: XII
35. Details of environmental and safety related Chapter: 5.9.Page: 129
documentation within the company including
documentation and proposed occupational
health and safety surveillance
36. Total capital and recurring cost for Not Applicable
environmental control measures.
37. A copy of Corporate Environment Policy of the Annexure Attached-IX
ONGC as per the Ministry‟s O.M.No.J-
11013/41/2006-IA.II(I) dated 26th April, 2011
available on the ministry‟s website.
38. Any litigation pending against the project and or No litigation pending
any direction/order passed by any court of law
against the project. If so details thereof.
39. Public hearing issues raised and commitments Conducted 2 Public
made by the project proponent on the same Hearing at Bankura &
should be included separately in EIA/EMP Hooghly Districts
Report in the form of tabular chart with financial
budget for complying with the commitments

13
 made.
40. A tabular chart with index for point-wise Attached
compliance of above TORs.

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 Executive Summary

1.0 Introduction

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) is a public sector petroleum
organization in India. ONGC produces around 69% of India's crude oil (equivalent to
around 30% of the country's total demand) and around 62% of its natural gas. It is
the highest profit-making corporation in India.

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has been awarded Exploration (onshore)
Block WB-ONN-2005/3, in Bengal Basin, West Bengal State for exploration of
hydrocarbons. The block WB-ONN-2005/3 is located in the SW part of state of West
Bengal. The block lies in Hugli, Bankura & Midnapur districts & is bordered by
Howrah District to the south & Bardhaman District to the north.

Environment Appraisal Committee (EAC) Industry-II of MoEF during 27th Expert

Appraisal Committee, (Industry) meeting held during 21 st to 22nd September‟ 2011,
granted TOR for the project “Exploratory drilling (3 wells) under NELP VII Block: WB-
ONN-2005/3, West Bengal by M/s ONGC vide F.No. J-11011/396/2011- IA (I).

ONGC has proposed to drill three exploratory wells in NELP VII, Block-WB-ONN-
2005/3 in Amdai, near Village & Panchayat: Laugram, P.S: Katulpur in Bankura
District, West Bengal and also in Hugli district. The latitude and longitude of the
identified drilling locations are 23°00‟57.25”N & 87°39‟27.22”E, 22°44‟53.59”N &
88°05‟32.35”E and 22°45‟36.43”N & 87°03‟53.43” E respectively.

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation limited (ONGC) being an operator in this block
requires to carry out the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study. The
purpose of such study is to assess the environmental impacts arising due to the
exploratory drilling proposed in the West Bengal block near villages around the
released locations. To conduct this study, ONGC engaged Pollution Control
Research Institute, BHEL, Haridwar for collecting base line data for EIA study for
various environmental components including air, noise, water, land, biological and
socio-economic for preparing Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for mitigating
the adverse impacts. The EIA report has been prepared by ONGC.

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 2.0 Project Description

Exploratory drilling is undertaken to establish the presence of hydrocarbons.

Exploratory drilling is temporary and of short duration and includes site preparation,
well foundation, rig building, drilling and post drilling restoration of the drill site. This
activity takes approximately 3-4 months under normal conditions. Drilling rig is used
for drilling the well and involves rotation of drill bit attached to a long string of a drill
pipe down the well. Drilling mud is pumped through the drill string, through the drill
bit, which returns up the annulus between the drill string and bore. Drill mud is used
to cool the drill bit while drilling, remove cuttings from the well, control formation
pressures, suspend and release cuttings, seal permeable formations, maintain well-
bore stability, minimize reservoir damage, cool and lubricate the bit etc. The drill
cuttings are separated from the drilling mud in shale shaker and the fluid is re-
circulated. If the presence of hydrocarbons is detected during drilling, production
testing is normally conducted. The production testing is carried out to ascertain the
reserves and economic viability.

3.0 Baseline Studies

The primary environmental baseline data was collected during the Winter Season
from Dec 2012 – Feb 2013 and secondary data was collected from various sources
in public domain and from published literature including discussion with various
government departments.

The baseline status of ambient air quality was carried out at selected sites in the 10
Km radius of the proposed drilling wells. While selecting ambient air quality
monitoring stations due consideration was given to topography, terrain, human
settlements, sensitive locations, general meteorological conditions, existing emission
sources, industries, regional background and possible impact zones based on
available information within the block area.

16
The arithmetic mean and 98th percentile values of 24 hourly average samples for PM
2.5 varied between 31-45 µg/m3 and 19-30 µg/m3, PM10 in the range of 77-88
µg/m3 and 55-89 µg/m3, SO2 in the range of 4-8 and NOx varied between 1.9-10.1
µg/m3 and 7-10 µg/m3 respectively. Non-methane and methane hydrocarbons were
monitored within the block area and varied between ND-0.06 ppm and ND-0.05 ppm
respectively. The background noise levels observed during daytime for rural
residential areas were in the range of 43.8 – 52 dBA and 33 - 45.6 dBA during day
and night time, respectively.

The baseline data for surface and groundwater was collected based on its use
especially for drinking purpose by the villages. River Mundeswari, a monsoon feed
river flows through the area. There are tube-wells, hand-pumps in villages. The
monitored river showed pH value 7.9 indicating water is in alkaline nature, turbidity
3.4 NTU and total suspended solids 42 mg/l. Moderate mineral content was
observed in the samples collected from river. Nutrient values, in the form of nitrate,
were found to be less. BOD and COD were found to be 1.4 and 10.0 respectively.
Similarly groundwater of the study area showed low to moderate mineral content.
The variations in the levels of various parameters are: total dissolved solids 121-228
mg/l; Hardness 37-141 mg/l. Chloride, Sulphates and Magnesium was found to be in
the range of 6-31 mg/l, 1.2–12 mg/l and ND–0.2 mg/l respectively. Both surface and
groundwater showed fecal contamination thus need chlorination before use for
drinking purpose. The soil samples were collected for various types of land uses.
The texture of the soil is clay and sandy clay loam. The soils in the region are low to
moderate and high adsorption capacity. The soils are normal with respect to
exchangeable sodium percentage. The study area is dominated by agricultural land
and having very scattered vegetation. There is no forest in the study area. The drill
sites near the villages are surrounded by the agricultural field of wheat, jawar and
paddy. Mammals like Monkeys, Squirrels and Mongoose are common in the study
area. Dominant birds observed in the study area are Blue rock pigeon, parakeet,
blue kingfisher, green bee-eater, house crow, common myna and black drange etc.
Common fishes found in the study area are Catla, Rohu, Mrigal, Silver Carp and
Grass Carp etc. In this area, agriculture is the main occupation with latest agriculture
technique and usage of high yielding techniques. The main crops grown are wheat,
paddy, jawar, mung and tur etc. Demographic profile of the area consists of

17
5,520,389 inhabitants with a density of 1753 in the area. Average literacy rate in
2011 were 82.55. Gender wise, male and female literacy were 87.93 and 76.95
respectively. Total literate in Hugli District were 4,140,487 of which male and female
were 2,250,780 and 1,889,707 respectively. The area has primary health centers &
primary schools in most of the blocks.

There is no Wild Life Sanctuary, National Park or Biosphere Reserve within a radius
of 10 km of the proposed Drilling site. The area is predominantly agricultural based.

4.0 Anticipated Environmental Impacts

The land requirement per well is about 120 m x 120 m and the environmental
impacts during the construction stage to drilling phase is short term activity,
temporary in nature and does not entail any displacement of people. The well head
facilities will be located in such a manner avoiding settlements.

Impact on Air Environment

For the purpose of impact predictions on air environment emission sources can be
classified into point and area sources. The point sources identified are:
Emission from DG Sets, Gas flaring during testing, Emission from vehicular
movement

Mitigation Measures:
Flaring system will be properly managed. Water spraying will be done when
required. Engines & exhaust systems of all vehicles will be maintained.

18
Noise from Drilling Rig
Drilling rig and machinery like DG Sets is likely to emit noise in the range of 60-65
db(A). But as all wells will be drilled at a distance of >500 m from habitation, this will
reduce the impact on community. Mitigation measures adopted will be: Control of
noise during installation of equipment & machinery will be ensured. Timely
maintenance of machinery will be carried out. PPE will be used

Impact on Water Environment

Drilling fluid or mud is basically a mixture of water, clay and weighting material with
all individual components being environmentally friendly. This mud will be reused as
much as possible. The mud circulation is a closed loop with the return mud going
back to the mud tanks. At the end of drilling operations, the residual (unusable) mud
is discharged in to the waste pit. Impact on water environment will be minimal.
Vegetation in the vicinity of the drilling sites will not get affected by proposed drilling
because of marginal change in ambient air quality. Re-establishment of crops by
natural means is expected to adequately mitigate the impact due to emissions of
pollutants.

Impact on Socio-economic Environment

The proposed activities would generate indirect employment in the region like
workers will be required in site preparation and drilling activities, supply of raw
material, auxiliary and ancillary works which will marginally improve the economic
status of people, commissioning of project would lead to improvement in transport
facilities as loose or soft surface rural roads and trails will be upgraded to facilitate
movement of the drilling rig and supply vehicles. In the event of commercial
quantities of gas are discovered, more long term employment opportunities would be
created and gas production would increase availability of gas to various industries in
this region. The impact on community health due to the proposed drilling activities is
negligible but the social status will improve due to increase in employment
opportunities.

19
 5.0 Environmental Management Plan and Mitigation Measures

The land will be acquired from private/government lands. Crop and land
compensation will be paid as determined by the revenue officials. The total water
requirement will be met from nearby sources near the well site. If the local water
quality does not meet the minimum quality requirement for use as make up water for
drilling fluid/potable use, suitable arrangement for transportation of water will be
made. Approximately 150m3 of spent drilling mud would be generated at each well
site. Drilling mud is re-used as much as possible. At the end of drilling operations,
the residual unusable mud is collected in lined pits and solar evaporated. The solids
retained at the bottom of the pit will be disposed of in a lined landfill site. The
domestic sewage will be treated in septic tanks followed by soak pit system. The
solid waste generation is limited to spent drill bits, packaging wastes and used
containers, drill cuttings, waste oil and any contaminated soil during the drill rig
movements and operations. The only hazardous waste generated in exploratory
drilling operations is spent lube oil. The spent oil will be collected, stored and
disposed as per the MoEF guidelines. All DG sets will be installed with adequate
stack heights to ensure wider dispersion. The mud chemical storage area will be
paved. Emission standards stipulated by CPCB and SPCB would be complied with.
The noise level will not exceed 75 dB (A) beyond the boundary of the drill site.
Personal protective equipment will be provided and their proper usage will be
ensured for eardrum protection of the workers. The ecological studies carried out
during the study period and secondary data indicate that there are no endangered,
rare and threatened species in this area. There is no ecologically sensitive area like
National park or Sanctuaries or Biosphere Reserves within 10-km radius of the study
area.

6.0 Project Benefits

Though the exploratory drilling activity is temporary and of short duration it has many
beneficial impacts. The proposed activities would generate indirect employment in
the region during site preparation and drilling activities, supply of raw materials and

20
auxiliary works. The commissioning of project would lead to improvement in
transport facilities as loose or soft surface rural roads will be upgraded to facilitate
movement of the drilling rig and supply vehicles. In case hydrocarbon reserves are
found it will lead to all round prosperity of the region & nation.

7.0 Conclusion

As summarized in above sections, it has been observed that the proposed project
would not have any major impacts which can lead to serious issue of environmental
pollution or any other hazards. Considering the probability of impacts, proponent has
planned adequate mitigation measures and EMP to overcome any likely adverse
impacts.

21
 CHAPTER – 1
INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of Report

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) is a public sector petroleum
company in India. It is the only fully-integrated petroleum company in India, operating
along the entire hydrocarbon value chain. It produces around 69% of India's crude oil
(equivalent to around 30% of the country's total demand) and around 62% of
its natural gas. It is the highest profit-making corporation in India.

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has been awarded Exploration (onshore)
Block WB-ONN-2005/3, with ONGC (operator) 100% share for exploration of
hydrocarbons. The block WB-ONN-2005/3 is located in the SW part of state of West
Bengal. The block lies in Hugli, Bankura & Midnapur districts & is bordered by
Howrah District to the south & Bardhaman District to the north. Area of the Block is
4001 Sq. Km.

Environment Appraisal Committee (EAC) Industry-II of MoEF during 27th Expert

Appraisal Committee, (Industry) meeting held during 21 st to 22nd September‟ 2011,
granted TOR for the project “Exploratory drilling (3 wells) under NELP VII Block: WB-
ONN-2005/3, West Bengal by M/s ONGC vide F.No. J-11011/396/2011- IA (I)
Dated 4thNovember‟2011.

MoEF in its minutes of the 14th Reconstituted Expert Appraisal Committee (Industry)
held during 19th to 20th December, 2013, vide Agenda No: 14.7.5. “ Exploratory
Drilling (3 wells) in Bengal Onshore Block WB-ONN-2005/3, West Bengal under
NELP-VII by M/s Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. (ONGCL) – Extension of
Validity of TOR reg. After detailed deliberations, the committee recommended for the
extension of validity of TOR for a period of one year with effect from 4.11.2013.

22
ONGC has proposed to drill three exploratory wells in NELP VII, Block-WB-ONN-
2005/3. Wells are located in Amdai near Village & Panchayat: Laugram, P.S:
Katulpur in Bankura District, West Bengal and also locations are planned to be
drilled in Raspur near Village: Santoshpur, P.S: Jangipara, Radhanagar Gram
Panchayat in Hugli district. The latitude and longitude of the identified drilling
locations are 23°00‟57.25”N & 87°39‟27.22”E, 22°44‟53.59”N & 88°05‟32.35”E and
22°45‟36.43”N & 87°03‟53.43” E respectively.

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation limited (ONGC), being an operator in the NELP-VII
Block-WB-ONN-2005/3, required to carry out the Environmental Impact Assessment
(EIA) study. The purpose of such study is to assess the Environmental Impacts
arising due to the exploratory drilling proposed in the block (West Bengal). ONGC
has been accredited by QCI Minute of 100th Accreditation Committee Meeting dated:
9.4.2013 (Annexure-I). As a project proponent ONGC has prepared the EIA Report.
For base line data, ONGC had engaged Pollution Control Research Institute (PCRI),
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, Haridwar for various environmental components
including air, noise, water, land, biological and socio-economy as per TOR and
prepare Environmental Management Plan (EMP). It may be noted that, PCRI
Laboratory notified accredited organization by MoEF for the job. Certificate is
attached as Annexure-II & Notification in Gazette of India as Annexure-III.

1.2 Site Details

Three exploratory wells are to be drilled in Village: Santoshpur, P.S: Jangipara,

Radhanagar Gram Panchayat in Hugli district, West Bengal & in Village &
Panchayat: Laugram, P.S: Katulpur in Bankura District. The latitude and longitude of
the identified drilling locations are 23°00‟57.25”N & 87°39‟27.22”E, 22°44‟53.59”N &
88°05‟32.35”E and 22°45‟36.43”N & 87°03‟53.43” E respectively.

The category of the Project is Exploratory A. The minimum work program is drilling of
1 well up to 2300m & 2 wells up to 2000m. Location map is depicted in Fig: 1.1.

23
 Figure 2.1: Location map of Block WB-ONN-2005/3

Figure 1.1: Location map of Block WB-ONN-2005/3

1.3 Scope of EIA Study

The scope of study includes detailed characterization of existing status of

environment around the proposed exploration drilling site in Bengal Basin in West
Bengal for various environmental components viz. air, noise, water, land, biological
and socio-economic. Under the scope of EIA, it is envisaged the following:

 To assess existing status of air, noise, water, land, biological and socio-
economic components of environment.
 To identify and quantify significant impacts of proposed drilling operations on
various environmental components.
 To evaluate proposed pollution prevention and control measures.

24
  To prepare a pragmatic environmental management plan (EMP) outlining
control technologies and/or practices to be adopted for mitigation of adverse
impacts.
 To delineate post-project environmental quality monitoring program to be
pursued by ONGC.

1.3.1 Methodology of EIA

Keeping in view of the nature of activities envisaged and environmental quality
guidelines of West Bengal State and Government of India, the area around proposed
exploration well site was studied for the purpose of environmental impact
assessment studies. The Terms of Reference (TOR) for Exploratory Drilling in Block
WB-ONN-2005/3 at West Bengal issued by the Ministry of Environment, New Delhi
is given below:

The following methodology has been adopted for preparation of EIA/EMP reports:

1. Collation and collection of environmental quality data / information for

assessment of existing status / quality of air, noise, water, land, biological abd
socio-economic components of environment in and around the region
proposed for drilling operations.
2. Identification, prediction and evaluation of significant environmental impacts
due to proposed drilling operations.
3. Preparation of environmental impact statement.
4. Delineation of Environmental Management Plan for mitigation of adverse
impacts.

Scope of Work:

1. Preparation of Environmental Impact assessment study report for exploratory

drilling operations and additional seismic survey.
2. These reports will comprise description of proposed operations, assessment
of existing environmental quality status based on available secondary data
supplemented by collection of primary data for the region.
3. Environmental Impact assessment Statement incorporating identification,
prediction and evaluation of impacts and delineation of Environmental
Management Plan.
1.3.1.1 Air Environment

 Collection of surface meteorological data like wind speed, wind direction,

relative humidity, rainfall, ambient temperature etc.

25
  Design of ambient air quality monitoring network.
 Measurement of 24 hourly average background concentrations of PM 2.5,
PM10 (size < 10 µm), SO2 and NOx and hydrocarbon.

1.3.1.2 Noise Environment

 Establishing existing status of noise levels in residential, commercial,

industrial areas and silence zones within the block area.

1.3.1.3 Land Environment

 Collection and assessment of representative soil samples within the study

area.
 Assessment of productivity and fertility of soil found within the study area.

1.3.1.4 Water Environment

 Collection of surface and groundwater resources for determining quality of

water in the study area.
 Assessment of biotic environment for water in terms of
phytoplankton/zooplankton (enumeration, idices and distribution).

1.3.1.5 Biological Environment

 Collection of data on flora and fauna including rare and endangered

species within the block area.
 Collection of information on wild life sanctuaries/reserve forest if any in the
vicinity of the project area.
 Assessment of species diversity, density, abundance etc., in the study
region.

1.3.1.6 Socio – economic Environment

 Collection of baseline data including demographic details, such as

households, population, literacy, employment pattern, general health,
tribal, transport, communication & welfare facilities such as hospitals
educational institutions, project awareness amongst the public,
infrastructure facilities, economic resources, cultural and aesthetic
attributes etc. as per the requirements under MoEF .

26
1.3.2 Anticipated Environmental Impacts

 Identification of Environmental Impacts associated with exploratory drilling

 Prediction of adverse impacts due to activities related to proposed
exploratory drilling.
 Assessment of adverse impacts due to the proposed activity on air, land,
water, biological and on human interests.

1.3.3 Mitigation Measures

 It is recommended that all equipment are operated within specified design

parameters during construction, drilling and operational phases.
 Use of ear muffs/plugs and other protective devices should be provided to
the workforce in noise prone areas.

1.3.4 Environmental Management Plan

Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been drawn after identifying, predicting
and evaluating the significant impacts on each component of the environment with a
view to maximizing the benefits form proposed project. The following measures will
also be included in EMP:

 Recommend mitigation measures required to address environmental

concerns such as wildlife and habitat protection, cultural and archaeological
sites protection, terrain stabilization, maintaining fresh water horizons, debris
disposal and conservation of natural drainage and water flow.
 Assess additional infrastructures for treatment of produced water, proposed
access cuttings, sewage, solid/hazardous waste.
 Provide a comprehensive and detailed plan covering environmental variables
to be monitored, the location and timing of sampling and the use to be made
of monitoring data to ensure compliance with the applicable environmental
rules/regulations throughout the life of the project.
 Delineate post-closure plan coexisting with natural surroundings for
abandonment of wells, rig dismantling and site completion and reclamation for
abandonment.

27
1.4 Approved Terms of Reference (TOR) for EIA Study

Terms of Reference (TOR) (An-IV) for preparation of EIA/EMP are following:

1. Executive summary of a project

2. Project description, Project objectives and project benefits

3. Site details within 1 km of the each proposed well, any habitation, any
other installation/activity, flora and fauna, approachability to site, other
activities including agriculture/land, satellite imagery for 10 km area.

4. Details of forest land involved in the proposed project. A copy of forest

clearance letter, if applicable.

5. Permission from the State Forest Department regarding the impact of

the proposed plant on the surrounding National Park/Wild Life
Sanctuary/ Reserve Forest/Eco sensitive area, if any. Approval
obtained from the State/Central Government under Forest
(Conservation Act, 1980 for the forestland should be submitted.

6. Distance from nearby critically/severely polluted area as per

Notification dated 13th January, 2010, if applicable.

7. Does proposal involves rehabilitation and resettlement? If yes, details

thereof.

8. Details of project cost.

9. Environmental considerations in the selection of the drilling locations

for which clearance is being sought. Present any analysis of steps
suggested for minimizing the foot print giving details of drilling and
development options considered.

10. Baseline data collection for air, water and soil for one season leaving
the monsoon season in an area of 10 km radius with center of oil field
as its center covering the area of all proposed drilling wells.

i. Topography of the project site

ii. Ambient Air quality monitoring at 8 locations for PM 10, SO2, NOx,
VOCs, Methane and Non-methane HC.

28
 iii. Soil sample analysis (physical and chemical properties) at the
areas located at 5 locations.

iv. Ground water and surface water quality in the vicinity of the
proposed wells site.

v. Climatology and meteorology including wind speed, wind

direction, temperature, rainfall, relative humidity etc.

vi. Measurement of Noise levels within 1 km radius of the proposed

wells.

vii. Vegetation and Land Use; Animal resources.

11. Incremental GLC as a result of DG set operation

12. Potential environmental impact envisages during various stages of

project activities such as site activation, development,
operation/maintenance and decommissioning.

13. Actual source of water and Permission for the drawl of water from the
Competent Authority. Detailed water balance, wastewater generation
and discharge.

14. Noise abatement measures and measures to minimize disturbance due

to light and visual intrusions in case coastally located.

15. Treatment and disposal of waste water.

16. Treatment and disposal of solid waste generation.

17. Disposal of spent oil and loose.

18. Storage of chemicals and diesel at site.

19. Commitment for the use of WBM only.

20. Mud makeup and mud and cutting disposal-all options considered
should be listed with selective option.

21. Hazardous material usage, storage and disposal.

22. Disposal of packaging waste from site.

23. Oil spill and emergency plans.

29
24. H2S emissions control.

25. Produced oil handling and storage.

26. Details of scheme for oil collection system along with process flow
diagram and its capacity.

27. Details of control of air, water and noise pollution in oil collection
system.

28. Disposal of produced/formation water.

29. Whether any burn pits being utilized for well test operations.

30. Restoration and decommissioning plans which should include mud pits
and wastage restoration also and documentation and monitoring of site
recovery.

31. Measures to protect groundwater and shallow aquifers from

contamination.

32. Risk assessment and disaster management plan for independent

reviews of well-designed construction etc. for prevention of blow out.

33. Environment Management Plan.

34. Documentary proof of membership of common disposal facilities, if

any.

35. Details of environmental and safety related documentation within the

company including documentation and proposed occupational health
and safety surveillance safety program for all personnel at site. This
should also include monitoring program for the environmental.

36. Total capital and recurring cost for environmental control measures.

37. A copy of Corporate Environment Policy of the ONGC as per the

Ministry‟s O.M. No. J-11013/41/2006-IA.II (I) dated 26th April, 2011
available on the ministry‟s website.

38. Any litigation pending against the project and or any direction/order
passed by any court of law against the project. If so details thereof.

30
39. Public hearing issues raised and commitments made by the project
proponent on the same should be included separately in EIA/EMP
Report in the form of tabular chart with financial budget for complying
with the commitments made.

40. A tabular chart with index for point-wise compliance of above ToRs.

The following general points should be noted:

i. All documents should be properly indexed, page numbered.

ii. Period/data of data collection should be clearly indicated.

iii. Authenticated English translation of all material provided in

Regional Languages.

iv. The letter/application for EC should quote the MoEF file No. and
also attach a copy of the letter.

v. A copy of the letter received from the Ministry should be also

attached as an annexure to the final EIA-EMP Report.

vi. The final EIA-EMP report submitted to the Ministry must

incorporate the issues in the letter. The index of the final EIA-
EMP report must indicate the specific chapter and page no. of
the EIA-EMP Report where the above issues have been
incorporated.

vii. While preparing the EIA report, the instructions for the
proponents and instructions for the consultants issued by MoEF
vide O.M. No. J-11013/41/2006-IA. II(I) dated 4th August 2009,
which are available on the website of this Ministry should also
be followed.

viii. The consultants involved in the preparation of EIA/EMP report

after accreditation with Quality Council of India (QCI)/National
Accreditation Board of Education and Training (NABET) would
need to include a certificate in this regard in the EIA/EMP report
prepared by them and data provided by other organization/
Laboratories including their status of approvals etc. In this
regard circular no. J-11013/77/2004-IA II(I) dated 2nd December,

31
 2009 posted on the Ministry‟s website http://www.moef.nic.in
may be referred.

ix. Status of approval of Accreditation with Quality Council of India/

National Accreditation Board of Education and Training
(QCI/NABET) as per circular No. J-11013/77/2004-IA II(I) dated
28th June, 2010 available on the Ministry‟s website
http://www.moef.nic.in.

x. „Certificate of Accreditation‟ issued by the QCI to the

environmental consultant should be included.

32
 CHAPTER – 2
2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Introduction
India is heavily dependent on imports of crude petroleum to meet the rapidly growing
demand for petroleum products. Current demand and supply projections indicate that
the level of self-sufficiency is likely to decline to about 30% over the next few years.
Substantial efforts are therefore, necessary to boost the level of exploration activity
in the country, so that new finds can be made and the level of crude oil and gas
production significantly increase in the years to come. Vast amount of capital
investments are necessary if exploration efforts are to be substantially augmented.
Therefore, there is need to attract both the National as well as private sector oil
companies to invest in this critical area.

With this background, a New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) was formulated by
the government in 1997-98 to provide a level playing field in which all parties could
complete on equal terms for the award of exploration acreage.

2.2 Project Justification

ONGC has endeavored to meet the energy requirements of the country. The rising
population and consequent increase in demands on petroleum has put lot of
pressure on the government as in spite of its best efforts, the country has to import
oil from the international market. It is expected that the proposed drilling activity in
the Block WB-ONN-2005/3 will meet the challenge partially. With a view to meeting
this growing demand, the initiative for exploration in relatively less explored area is
envisaged.

33
2.3 Project Description

2.3.1 Description of Contract Area

Three exploratory wells are to be drilled in Block WB-ONN-2005/3 covering Hugli,

Bankura & Midnapur districts of West Bengal near villages Village: Santoshpur in
Hugli district & in Village: Laugram in Bankura District for exploratory drilling. The
details of the Project Region, Block and Area are given below in Table 2.1 and
coordinates are given in Table 2.2.

Table 2.1: Description of the Contract Area

Project Region Block Title Target Depth (m) Block Area (Km2.)

Bengal Basin NELP – VII 2300m 4001 Sq. Km

Block
2000m
WB-ONN-
2005/3 2000m

At present the proposed three exploratory drill sites are in Hugli & Bankura districts.
The sites are at a distance of 40 Km from Kolkata. The nearest Town is Arambagh
which is at approx. distance of 20 Km. Burdwan town is at a distance of 35 Kms. The
sites are located near the State Highway 08. The nearest airport Kolkata is at a
distance of 45 Km. The sites are in agricultural land with no major activity in the
vicinity.

Table 2.2: Coordinates of Block: WB-ONN-2005/3

Coordinates
Longitude Latitude
Pt. Deg. Min. Sec. Deg. Min. Sec.
A 87 35 0 23 14 0
B 87 45 0 23 14 0
C 87 45 0 23 20 0
D 88 10 0 23 20 0
E 88 10 0 22 42 0
F 87 35 0 22 42 0 34
A 87 35 0 23 14 0
2.3.2 Project Objective
Having analyzed the sub-surface data of the region, exploratory drilling is required to
be carried out to test the occurrence of hydrocarbon in the targeted formation and
assess its commercial viability. If the successful results are obtained, other wells will
be taken up in the same block.

2.3.2 A Topography of Project Site

The entire identified project sites are spread over plain alluvium agricultural land.
There are no hills present in the study area.

2.3.2 B Site Clearance

Site selected for the proposed activity will be surveyed first and the boundaries shall
be marked. Land clearance for each drill site shall be minimum in order to safely
accommodate the essential facility. The area would be about 120X120m. The land
would be strengthened to enable it hold the drilling operations.

2.3.2 C Site Selection Criteria

Present project is the outcome of seismic data acquisition & interpretation. Each
drilling location is selected based on careful analysis of G&G data. Only minimum
land will be acquired for the project. No forest land is involved for the project.

2.3.2 D Geological Setting

Bengal basin, a polycyclic basin, has evolved through two distinct tectonic
episodes. It was initiated as an intra-cratonic rift basin within Gondwana land
during Late Paleozoic-Mid Mesozoic time and received the continental Gondwana
sediments. This phase of basin development ended with wide spread volcanism
during which continental flood basalts (Rajmahal Trap) covered the Gondwana
sediments. Second phase of basin formation took place when Indian Craton
separated out completely from the Gondwana land and kept on moving
northwards. During this journey of the Indian plate, the peri-cratonic part on the
eastern margin (along with Gondwana sediments) continuously subsided and
received colossal volume of sediments from Late Mesozoic through Tertiary to
Recent times in a passive margin set-up. In its northern journey, the Indian plate
collided with the Eurasean plate and caused up folding and thrusting forming the

35
 Himalayan Orogenic belt. Further movement of the Indian plate was in the
northeasterly direction, northeastern end of Indian plate collided with the Burmese
plate, the former subducting below the latter, and the sedimentary accretionary
prism gave rise to the formation of Assam-Arakan thrust fold belt.
Bengal basin is traditionally sub-divided into four NE-SW trending tectonic zones
these zones from West to East are as follows:
a) Basin margin zone, characterized by shallow depth of Archaean rocks with
down to basement and en echelon fault system;
b) Shelf zone, where the Archaean basement maintains a uniform low gradient
slope towards east and SE.
c) The Hinge zone (Shelf Break), characterized by sudden increase in the slope
which is distinct at the level of Eocene limestone top (Kalighat limestone) as seen
in seismic sections.
d) Deep basin zone where basement is not identifiable due to thick sediment
cover.

Stratigraphy
Late Paleozoic and Mesozoic era were witnessed by beginning of continental
sedimentation in the intracratonic Gondwana basin. In Purnea basin, Gondwana
group of rocks were deposited unconformably over the Dharwarian metasediments
of Precambrian age. Gondwana group of rocks then deposited in the rift basin from
Permo-carboniferous to Cretaceous time. Some doleritic intrusive are observed in
drilled wells in between Talcher and Karharbari Formations. After a big hiatus of 110
M.Y, Siwalik rocks were deposited during Neogene time over Gondwana group of
rocks.

Petroleum System

A few deeper plays have been envisaged in the Bengal basin, during the ongoing
exploration efforts, based on available geoscientific data that may describe the
petroleum system of the Basin.

Gondwana plays: Existence of few structural closures in the two westerly 3D areas
of the Block WB-ONN-2005/3 is being targeted. Paleocene play: A wedge out type
feature may be located close to the Eocene Hinge zone in the Block WB-ONN-
2005/3 which can be a probable locale for hydrocarbon accumulation.

36
2.3.2 Drilling Operations
On land Drilling Rig is proposed to be deployed for undertaking drilling in the block.
The technical details of the proposed drilling activity are given below in Table-2.3.

Table 2.3: Details of Drilling Activities

Sr. No. Description Details

1 Well Depth 2300m, 2000m & 2000m

2 No. of wells to be drilled 3

3 Type of Rig Electrical

4 Drilling Mud Type Water based drilling fluid

5 Power generator type and Nos. Diesel Driven AC SCR Type (04 Nos) with
Diesel Driven. 380 KVA

6 Diesel consumption 6 KL/day (sulphur content < 350mg/kg).

7 Quantity of fresh water 15-20 m3/day transported from nearby

requirement and source source, through contractor.

8 Manpower of Rig 30 per shift of 12 hrs two shifts/day

9 Material requirement and From ONGC base

mobilization

10 Details of solid handling system Shale Shakers : 1200 GPM Capacity

on rig
Desander : 1200 GPM Capacity

Desilter : 1200 GPM Capacity

11 Waste pit availability and size 30′x33′x5′ : 2 Nos.

38′x33′x5′ : 1 No.

23′x20′x5′ : 1 No.

12 Oil Pit availability and size 3′x3′x4′ : 1 No.

37
 13 Quantity of cuttings 100 m3/1000m depth

14 Quantity of Domestic Solid 300 kg/month

Waste

15 Distance of Block boundary On land location (> 200 km)

from the coast line

16 Development plan in case of To be chalked after Hydro Carbon (HC)

strike find

17 Formation pressure Hydrostatic

18 Test flaring, duration 2 to 3 days

Effluent Treatment Plant is shown in Figure 2.1 & typical oil drilling is shown in
Figure 2.2.

Fig: 2.1 Effluent Treatment Plant

38
Figure 2.2: General view of Oil Drilling Rig Figure 2.3: Stationary Drilling Outfit

Drilling operations will be carried out using the electrical type drilling unit (Figure 2.2)
for drilling of oil and gas wells consists of a Derrick at the top of which is mounted a
Crown Block and a Hoisting Block with a hook. From the swivel is suspended a Kelly
stem passes through a square of hexagonal Kelly bush which fits into the rotary
table. The rotary device receives the power to drive it from an electric motor. The
electric motor rotates the rotary table which passes through the Kelly Bush and the
rotations are transmitted to the bit as the drilling progresses, the drill pipes in singles
are added to continue the drilling process. At the end of the bit life, the drill pipes are
pulled out in stands and stacked on the derrick platform. A stand normally has 3
single drill pipes. After hanging the bit, the drill string is run back into the hole and
further drilling is continued. This process continues till the target depth is reached.

39
During the course of drilling, cuttings are generated due to crushing action of the bit.
These cuttings are removed by flushing the well with duplex mud pumps. The mud
from pump discharge through the rotary hose connected to stationary of the swivel,
the drill string and bit nozzles. The mud coming out of the bit nozzles pushes the
cuttings up hole and transports them to surface through annular space between the
drill string and the hole. The mud not only carries away crushed rock from the bottom
of the hole, but it also cools the bit which gets heated due to friction with formation
while rotating.

The mud also helps in balancing sub-surface formation pressures and by forming a
cake on the walls of the well diminishes the possibility of crumbling or caving of the
well bore.

At the surface, the mud coming out from well along with the cuttings falls in a trough,
passes through the solids control equipment i.e. Shale Shaker, De-Sander and De-
Silter. This equipment removes the solids of different sizes which get mixed with the
mud during the course of drilling. The cleaned mud flows back to the suction tanks to
be again pumped into the well.

The drilling mud/fluid circulation is thus a continuous cyclic operation. A sketch of the
drilling mud circulatory system is shown in Figure 2.4. The most suitable clay for mud
preparation is Bentonite which is a capable of forming highly dispersed colloidal
solutions. Various other chemicals are also used in mud preparation as per
requirements dictated by the temperature/pressure conditions of the wells. The mud
is continuously tested for its density, viscosity, yield point, water loss, pH value etc.
to ensure that the drilling operations can be sustained without any down-hole
complications.

40
 Figure 2.4: Drilling Fluid Circulation

2.4 General Requirements of Drilling

2.4.1 Exploratory Drilling Program Requirements

Drilling Muds

Drilling of wells requires specially formulated muds which basically comprise inert
earth materials like Bentonite, barite in water with several additives to give mud
weight, fluidity and filter cake characteristics while drilling. The drilling muds have
several functions like lubrication and cooling of the drilling bits balancing subsurface
formation, bringing out the drill cuttings from the well bore, thixotrophic property to
hold cuttings during non-operations, formation of thin cake to prevent liquid has
along well bore etc. Several additives are mixed into the mud system to give the
required properties. Water based mud will be used to the possible extent in
exploratory drilling because of synthetic based mud may require due to complexities
associated with the geological formations and associated hole stability problems.
The constituents of water based mud (WBM) are given in Table 2.4. The special
additives and their functions in WBM are shown in Table 2.5.

41
Power Generation
The drilling process requires movement of drill bit through the Draw Works which
require power. The power requirement of the drilling rig will be 380 KVA met by using
the 4 Diesel Generator sets with a diesel consumption of about 6 Kl/day (Bharat
Stage-III with Sulphur < 350mg/kg. The exhaust stacks of the DG sets are likely to
vent the emissions.

Water Requirement
The water requirement in a drilling rig mainly meant for preparation of drilling mud
apart from washings and domestic use. While the former consumes the majority of
water requirement, the water requirement for domestic and wash use is very less.
The daily water consumption will be 15-20 m3 will be used for mud preparation.
About 10 m3 will be used for domestic purpose including drinking. The treatment of
the wastewater is done on the onshore drill site before disposal.
No groundwater would be drawn during the exploratory drilling. The water
requirement for various purposes would be met through supply from water
tankers.

Domestic Waste water

Waste water would be generated in the form of wash water of about 3m 3/d. It will be
diverted to mud pit lined with HDPE sheet. The operating personnel in the drilling
rigs will operate from drill site accommodation (DSA) in the vicinity of the location.
Suitable soak pits will be available at the DSA.

Solids Removal
The rock cuttings and fragments of shell, sand and silt associated with the return
drilling fluid during well drilling will be separated during Shale Shakers and other
solids removal equipment like De-Sanders and De-Silters. The recovered mud will
be reused while the rejected solids will be collected and discharged into the waste
pit.

42
Drill Cuttings and Waste Residual Mud
During drilling operations, approximately 100 m3/1000M per well of wet drill cuttings
are expected to be generated from each well depending on the type of formation and
depth of drilling. In addition to the cuttings 3 m3/day of wastewater is likely to be
generated during well drilling. The waste residual muds and drill cuttings which
contain clay, sand etc. will be disposed into the waste pit. Testing facilities will be
available at drilling rig for separation of liquid phase and burning of all hydrocarbons
during testing. The test fire flare boom will be located at a distance from the drilling
rig.

Chemical Storage
The drilling rig will have normal storage facilities for fuel oil, required chemicals and
the necessary tubular and equipment. The storage places will be clearly marked with
safe operating facilities and practices. Chemicals will be stored in a chemical shed
measuring approximately 20 m X 11 m X 20 m Tin Shed. The chemical storage area
will be:

• Well lighted
• Having fire extinguisher
• Front open
• Proper spacing between the lots of different chemicals will be provided.
• MSDS will be provided in each bag of chemicals
• Various lots of chemicals will be demarcated by signage boards.

Manpower
The drilling rig will be operated by approximately 30 persons on the rig at any time.
The manpower will operate in two shifts with continuous on the rig.
Logistics
Crew transfers to and from the drilling rig, materials, diesel and chemicals will be
through light vehicles, trucks and trailers.

43
 Table 2.4: Ingredient of Water Based Drilling Fluid

S.No. Chemicals
1 Barite
2 Bentonite
3 Carboxy Methyl Cellulose

4 Mud Thinner/Conditioner
5 Resinated Lignite
6 Non-Weighted Spotting Fluid
7 Weighted Spotting Fluid
8 EP Lube
9 Drilling Detergent
10 Caustic Soda
11 Potassium Chloride
12 Soda Ash

Table 2.5: Special Additives and their Function in Water Based Drilling Fluids

S. No. Discharge Category Exploration

1 Sodium bicarbonate Eliminate excess calcium ions due to cement
contamination
2 Sodium Chloride Minimize borehole washout in salt Zone

3 Groundnut shells, mica of Cellophane Minimize loss of drilling mud to formation

4 Cellulose polymers or starch Counter thick, sticky filter cake, decrease

filter loss to formation.

5 Aluminum stearate Minimize foaming

6 Vegetable Oil Lubricant Reduce torque and drag on drill string

7 Pill of oil-based mud spotting fluid Counter differential pressure sticking of

drilling string. Pill is placed down hole
opposite contact zone to free pipe

44
2.5 Expected Project cost (Exploration cost)

Project cost per well is dependent on well depth & production testing. About Rs.30
crores cost is expected per well including drilling & testing. Total approximate
expected cost is Rs.90 Crores for 3 wells. (Annexure V).

2.6 Project Benefits:

The efforts of ONGC to meet the energy requirements of the country have been
notable. The rising population and the consequent increase in demands on
petroleum have put lot of pressure on country. Despite its best efforts, the country
has to import 70% oil from the international market. The international prices at times
also put the government in a tight corner. ONGC contributes over 69% of India‟s
domestic Oil Equivalent Production. Still, substantial efforts are therefore necessary
to boost the exploratory activity in the country. This will enable in discovering new
hydrocarbon fields and the level of crude oil and gas production can then be
significantly increased in future.

It is expected that the new initiative for exploration by ONGC in this block in West
Bengal will help in meeting the challenge partially. Therefore, the present proposal of
exploration in this block is in line with the country‟s need for energy security.

45
 CHAPTER – 3
DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

3. Introduction:
In order to carry out an Environment Impact Study, it is necessary to study and
define the existing status of recipient environment in and around operational area of
the proposed project. Environment baseline study will record the existing quality of
environmental status within the area of influence before implementation of the
project. The existing baseline data is considered to adjudge the prevailing
environmental condition which are studied and described with respect to TOR
granted.

3.1 Air Quality

Ambient air monitoring was carried
out to assess the air quality at the
proposed project site. Ambient air
quality monitoring helps in generating
data with respect to various pollutants
present in the environment. These are
used to estimate the present air
quality status in the region. The data
is also used as back ground
concentration of pollutants in
determining the effect of proposed
project on the environment. The study
is essential to establish
environmentally significant issues due
to the proposed activities being taken-

Fig: 3.1 Block Map

46
up in the industry and critical environmental changes that have occurred since the
initiation of such activities. For the pre-drilling activities, at West Bengal basin the
data collected during winter season of the year 2012-2013 have been analyzed and
presented herewith.
3.2 Ambient Air Monitoring
The ambient air monitoring was carried out at site as per the Environmental
Guidelines of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) of June 1998 and National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) of CPCB of November 2009 Notification.
AAQM study was conducted at selected locations on 24 hourly averages for two
days in a week as per the guidelines of CPCB and NAAQS. AAQM was carried out
at 08 locations to determine cross-sectional distribution of air pollution parameters in
developed region.
The air quality monitoring data for winter season was collected during December
2012 – February 2013. The following parameters were monitored for ambient air
quality study: viz. PM10, PM2.5, Sulfur dioxide (SO2), Oxide of Nitrogen, NH3, Heavy
Metals, Benzopyrene, Benzene as well as Hydrocarbons, and Carbon Monoxide.
The micro-meteorological data on wind speed, wind direction, temperature and
relative humidity were collected during the study period.

3.3 Micrometeorology
The study of micro-meteorological conditions of a particular region is of utmost
importance to understand the variations in ambient air quality status in that region.
The principal variables which affect the micrometeorology are horizontal transport
and dispersion (average wind speed and directions), convective transport and
vertical mixing (atmospheric stability) and also topography of the area towards local
influences. Climatological Tables of Observatories in India (1951-1980), published
by India Meteorological Department, were used to obtain climatological normals for
the region. With an objective of determining the prevailing micro-metrological
conditions (Dec 2012 – Feb 2013) an automatic weather monitoring station was
installed keeping in view the free exposure of sensors to atmosphere and minimum
interference from the nearby structures. The micro metrological data on wind speed,
wind direction, temperature and relative humidity were collected. The collected data

47
have been processed to draw Wind rose on 24 hourly basis are drawn and are
shown in Figure 3.2.
The wind from WNW - NW sector was observed to be predominant with an
average speed of 2.80 m/s during the study period 19.82 % of the time it was
observed to be calm. The district has a moist humid climate.

Figure - 3.2

48
3.4 Selection of Sites

The ambient air monitoring was carried out at 8 sites within a radius of 10 kms
around the proposed drilling sites.

These stations were selected so as to provide ambient air quality data on:

 Background Air Pollution Level

 Existing Ambient air quality in rural, residential and industrial areas.
 Air Pollution due to existing industries and local sources

Meteorological data was collected during the study from site itself by installation of
automatic weather monitoring station. Sites were selected keeping in mind the wind
direction. Distance and direction of the ambient air monitoring sites are given in the
table below. Locations are shown in the Figure - 3.2.

Table - 3.1: Details of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Sites

S.No. Site Name Distance (Km)

1. Kotalpur 6.0 (NW)

2. Jadupur 4.0(NE)

3. Rautara 7.0(ESE)

4. Painta 9.0 (ESE)

5. Bealar 8.5 (ESE)

6. Bamnagar 5(W)

7. Jangipara 2.0(WNW)

8. Rampara 3.0(ESE)

49
Figure 3.3 - Ambient Air Monitoring Stations

50
3.5 Results of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring

Statistical analysis of ambient air quality data is given in Table 3.2 to 3.7.

Table 3.2: Average, Cumulative Percentile, Maxima & Minima

Oxide of Nitrogen (NOx)

All values in µg/m3

Site Percentile
Location Mean S.D Min Max
Code 98th

A1 Kotalpur 8 1.9 5 7 1.9

A2 Jadupur 8 1.9 6 7 1.9

A3 Rautara 9 2.7 5 7 2.7

A4 Painta 12 10.1 7 9 10.1

A5 Bealar 14 9.2 8 10 9.2

A6 Bamnagar 9 2.5 7 7 2.5

A7 Jangipara 7 7.2 7 7 7.2

A8 Rampara 8 2.0 6 7 2.0

Table 3.3: Average, Cumulative Percentile, Maxima & Minima

Sulphur Di Oxide (SO2)

All values in µg/m3

Site Percentile
Location Mean S.D Min Max
Code 98th

A1 Kotalpur 4 1.2 BDL 7 7

A2 Jadupur BDL 0.9 BDL 4 4

A3 Rautara BDL 1.3 BDL 5 5

51
 A4 Painta 6 1.7 BDL 6 6

A5 Bealar BDL 1.2 BDL 5 5

A6 Bamnagar BDL 2.1 BDL 7 7

A7 Jangipara 5 1.7 BDL 8 8

A8 Rampara 5 2.3 BDL 8 8

BDL: Below Detection Limit

Table - 3.4

Average, Cumulative Percentile, Maxima & Minima Particulate Matter (PM 10)

All values in µg/m3

Site Percentile
Location Mean S.D Min Max
Code 98th

A1 Kotalpur 70 7.8 52 55 78

A2 Jadupur 80 4.3 72 75 84

A3 Rautara 72 4.7 66 69 77

A4 Painta 92 5.9 61 63 98

A5 Bealar 95 3.1 57 61 98

A6 Bamnagar 65 4.6 62 62 71

A7 Jangipara 71 7.7 86 92 78

A8 Rampara 73 6.8 63 68 80

52
 Table- 3.5

Average, Cumulative Percentile, Maxima & Minima Particulate Matter (PM 2.5)

All values in µg/m3

Site Percentile
Location Mean S.D Min Max
Code 98th

A1 Kotalpur 29 10.8 18.0 19.25 35

A2 Jadupur 31 3.3 28 30 38

A3 Rautara 29 4.9 24 27 31

A4 Painta 33 8.9 24 25 32

A5 Bealar 34 10.5 23 24 31

A6 Bamnagar 28 3.6 25 25 28

A7 Jangipara 29 5.8 34 37 45

A8 Rampara 30 5.5 25 27 33

Table 3.6

Levels of Particulate Associated (Pb, Ni, As and BaP) Toxic Pollutants

ND: Not detectable

Pb Ni As BaP
Site Code Location
µg/m3 ng/m3 ng/m3 ng/m3
A1 Kotalpur 0.05 0.6 ND 0.04
A2 Jadupur ND 0.7 ND 0.01
A3 Rautara
ND 1.1 ND 0.02
A4 Painta 0.03 ND ND 0.03

53
 A5 Bealar 0.10 1.2 ND ND
A6 Bamnagar 0.04 0.6 ND ND
A7 Jangipara ND 0.7 ND ND
A8 Rampara ND 0.5 ND ND

NAAQM (2009) 1 20 6 1

Table 3.7

Levels of Volatile Organic Pollutants

Spot concentration

Site CO Benzene THC MHC NMHC O3

Location
Code mg/m3 μg/m3 ppm ppm ppm µg /m3 *

A1 Kotalpur 0.06 ND 0.09 0.05 0.04 5.72

A2 Jadupur ND ND ND ND ND ND

A3 Rautara 0.08 ND 0.09 0.05 0.04 6.38

A4 Painta 0.00 ND 0.00 ND ND ND

A5 Bealar 0.03 0.11 0.07 0.04 0.04 7.26

A6 Bamnagar ND ND ND ND ND ND

A7 Jangipara 0.04 ND 0.11 0.05 0.06 5.94

A8 Rampara ND ND ND ND ND ND

NAAQM (2009) 4 5 - - -

THC=Total Hydrocarbon; MHC= Methane Hydrocarbon; NMHC=Non methane Hydrocarbon

* 8 hours ozone (O3) NAAQS = 100 µg/m3

54
 3.6 Discussion Regarding Ambient Air Concentration of Air
Pollutants

The standards for the ambient air quality as prescribed by CPCB (Ref: National
Ambient Air Quality Standards, CPCB, 2009) are given in Table 3.8 below:

Table - 3.8: NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS

Concentration in Ambient Air

Ecologically Methods of Measurement

Time Industrial,
Sensitive
Weighted Residential,
S.No. Pollutant Area (Notified
Rural and
by Central
Average Area
Government)

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

Annual* 50 20 -Improved West and Gaeke

3
1 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), ug/m
24 hours** 80 80 -Ultraviolat fluorescence

- Modified Jacob & Hochheiser (Na-

Annual* 40 30
3 Arsenite)
2 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), ug/m
24 hours** 80 80
- Chemiluminescence

- Gravimetric
Annual* 60 60
Particulate Matter (size less
3 3 - TOEM
than 10um) or PM10 ug/m
24 hours** 100 100
- Beta attenuation

- Gravimetric
Annual* 40 40
Particulate Matter (size less
4 3 - TOEM
than 2.5um) or PM2.5 ug/m
24 hours** 60 60
- Beta attenuation

8 hours** - UV photometric
100 100
3
5 Ozone (O3) ug/m - Chemilminescence
180 180
1 hours** - Chemical Method

Annual*
- AAS/ICP method after sampling on EPM
0.05 0.05
2000 or equivalent filter paper
6 Lead (Pb) ug/m3
1.0 1.0
- ED-XRF using Teflon filter
24 hours**

8 hours** 02 02
Carbon Monoxide (CO) - Non Dispersive Infra Red (NDIR)
7 3
mg/m spectroscopy
1 hours** 04 04

55
 Annual* 100 100 - Chemiluminescence
3
8 Ammonia (NH3)um/m
24 hours** 400 400 - Indophenol blue method

- Gas chromatography based continuous

Annual* analyzer
3
9 Benzene (C6H6) ug/m 05 05
- Adsorption and Desorption followed by
GC analysis

Annual*
Benzo(a)Pyrene (BaP)- - Solvent extraction followed by HPLC/GC
10 3 01 01
particulate phase only , ng/m analysis

3 - AAS/ICP method after sampling on EPM

11 Arsenic (As), ng/m Annual* 06 06
2000 or equivalent filter paper

3 - AAS/ICP method after sampling on EPM

12 Nickel (Ni), ng/m Annual* 20 20
2000 or equivalent filter paper

* Annual arithmetic mean of minimum 104 measurements in a year at a particular

site taken twice a week 24 hourly at uniform intervals.

** 24 hourly or 08 hourly or 01 hourly monitored values, as applicable, shall be

complied with 98% of the time in a year. 2% of the time, they may exceed the limits
but not on two consecutive day of monitoring.

Note.-Whenever and wherever monitoring results on two consecutive days of

monitoring exceed the limits specified above for the respective category, it shall be
considered adequate reason to institute regular or continuous monitoring and further
investigation.

3.7 Emission Inventory

Proposed drilling activity will involve the use of 4 Captive DG sets (including 1
standby set) of 1215 KVA as power source. The emission from the DG sets
would be mainly NOx, oxides of Sulphur & Nitrogen, CO, CO2 & Hydrocarbons.
SO2 concentration in emission is dependent on Sulphur content in the fuel. The
gases from these DG Sets will be ejected to the atmosphere through stack. The
emission inventory includes stack dimensions, flow rates, exit gas temperatures
and stack exit velocities. The methodology for calculation of emission inventory
is stated below:

56
  Emission rate of NOx was calculated on the limit of 187.2659 mg/M3 (100
ppm)
 Diameter of each flue at exit has been taken as 0.1016 m (4.0 inch).
 Stack exit velocities at full load were calculated from volumetric flow rate and
stack exit diameter. The exit gas velocity is worked out to be 8 m/sec.

Based on the above assumptions the emission inventory for the proposed operation
of DG sets has been calculated and given in in Table - 3.9.

Table - 3.9

Emission Inventory for proposed operation of DG set during exploratory drilling

Parameter 
 Stack Height (m) 30
 No. of Stacks 4
 Flues exit Diameter (inch) 4
 Flue gas exit velocity (m/s) 8
 Flue gas exit temperature (K) 453
 NOx emission rate (g/s) 0.01214

Model Application

24-hour, first highest concentration has been computed using the EPA-ISCST3
model for this hourly meteorological data have used which was collected at site by
installing automatic weather monitoring station, for the period Dec - March 2013. The
2nd highest concentration is expected to be close to the 98th percentile
concentration.

Model Output

The output of model provides ground level concentration of NO x due to emission

from the operation of the DG sets. The 24 hour 1st highest concentration was
obtained through hour-by-hour computation from meteorological data is given in
Table-3.10 and the isopleths are shown in Figure-3.3 The isopleths indicate the 24-
hour 1st Highest ground level concentrations of pollutants due to emissions from the
proposed operation of four DG sets.

57
 Table - 3.10:

24-hour 1st Highest Ground Level Concentrations

Pollutant 1st Highest Ground Level Concentration

(Incremental GLC)

GLC (µg/m3) Distance (Km)

Nitrogen Oxides 0.61 300 meter (South east)

The maximum incremental concentration of NOx is expected to be of 0.61 g/m3 due

to proposed operation of the Four DG sets. These concentrations are expected to
occur at a distance of 300 meters in the South east direction from the site. The total
concentrations of NOx, after superimposition of background level would be 10.61
g/m3. The predicted total concentration of NOx is also within the allowable limit for
rural and residential areas. The impact of the running of all four proposed DG sets
on ambient air quality with respect to NOx is very low. The maximum SO2 emission
rate is 0.01 Gm/Sec. The incremental ground level concentration due to emission of
SO2 is negligible.

Hence, it is concluded that there would be marginal changes in air quality in the
surrounding area but it would be within the permissible limit prescribed by central
pollution control board. The isopleths for GLC‟s of NOx are given Figure - 3.3.

58
 Figure - 3.4: SHORT TERM 24 HOURLY GLCs OF NOx

3.8 Noise Quality

Unwanted sound results in noise pollution. Environmental noise may be divided into
outdoor noise and community noise. Environmental noise monitoring was carried out
to assess the noise environment in and around the proposed site for power plant.
The noise levels were compared with the standards. The objectives of these
measurements are as follows:

 Identification of noise sources for machine noise control

 Assessment of noise levels for worker protection
 Study the far field radiation

59
Excessive noise has been blamed for hearing damage, speech masking and
community annoyance. It may also be responsible for Hypertension, Fatigue and
Heart trouble etc. The study of noise levels was carried out by using standard
equipment.

3.8.1 Noise Regulations

Indian guidelines with respect to noise laid down by Environmental (Protection) Third
Amendment Rules, 1989 are shown in Table - 3.11.

Table- 3.11: Ambient Air Quality Standards in Respect of Noise

Area Category of Day Time Night Time

Code Area Limits in dB(A) Leq

A. Industrial area 75 70

B. Commercial area 65 55

C. Residential area 55 45

D. Silence zone 50 40

 Day time is reckoned between 6 AM and 9 PM.

 Night time is reckoned between 9 PM and 6 AM.
 Silence zone is defined as area up to 100 meters around such premises as hospitals,
educational institutions and courts. Use of vehicular horns, loudspeakers and
bursting of crackers shall be banned in these zones.

Noise standards have been designated for different types of land use, i.e. residential,
commercial, industrial and silence zones, as per „The Noise Pollution (Regulation
and Control) Rules, 2000, Notified by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, New
Delhi on February 14, 2000‟. Different standards have been stipulated during day
time (6 am to 10 pm) and night time (10 pm to 6 am).

The noise rating method as Leq i.e. equivalent sound pressure level has been
adopted for the measurement of noise level in various selected sampling locations of
this region. It is the energy mean of the noise level over a specified period and is
expressed in terms of decibels.

The noise scale A-weighted network in dB (A) was used for monitoring of noise level.
Leq in dB (A) denotes the frequency weighting in the measurement of noise and

60
corresponds to frequency response characteristics of human ear. The average of
Leq at each location is calculated using energy average formula

At some locations total noise due to multiple sources at observer‟s location was
calculated as follows:

Day night sound level (Ldn) for 24 hours equivalent sound level can be calculated
as follows:

Where,

Ldn : Day night sound level

„i‟ : Denotes the sum over the 16 hours during the daytime

„j‟ : Denotes the sum over the 8 hours during the night time

Leq(i)¬ : Equivalent noise level for „i‟th hours

Leq(j) : Equivalent noise level for „j‟th hours

3.8.2 Noise Monitoring

Ambient Noise monitoring was
carried out in the 10 Km radius of
proposed drilling well sites. Eight
sampling locations at and around
proposed drilling well sites as
depicted in figure 3.3 were
monitored in summer season. The
main sources of the noise are
agricultural and domestic activities.

The sound pressure level was

measured by using a Precision
Integrating Sound Level Meter Type
2230 of B & K. Since loudness of
sound is important by its effects on
people, the dependence of
loudness upon frequency must be

Fig: 3.5 Noise Monitoring Station

61
taken into account in Environment Noise Assessment. This has been achieved by
the use of an A-weighting filter in the Noise Level Meter.

Noise around the proposed site and the location of noise levels measurements along
with the possible sources of noise are given in Table 3.12.

Table 3.12: Noise Level Measurements

Noise Level dB(A)

S.N. Location Possible Sources of Noise
Day Time Night Time

Human activities, located near

A1 Kotalpur 45.2 33.1
market

A2 Jadupur 48.6 35.4 Human activities, Natural Sources

A3 Rautara 43.8 40.4 Human activities, Natural Sources

A4 Painta 50.4 39.3 Agricultural activities.

Major urban area, Human

A5 Bealar 52.1 41.1 activities, Natural Sources, and
vehicles

A6 Bamnagar 51.3 40.4 Human activities, Natural Sources

Located near market, Human

A7 Jangipara 48.3 43.1
activities, Natural Sources

A8 Rampara 44.7 45.6 Human activities, Natural Sources

The background noise levels observed during daytime for rural residential areas
were in the range of 43.8 – 52.1 dBA and 33.1 – 45.6 dBA during day and night time,
respectively.

The above stations were selected for measurement of Ambient Noise Levels to
establish the base line status of noise level in and around the proposed drilling well
site. It has been observed that in all the locations, the noise level during day time
and night time was well within limit specified for Residential areas during summer
season.

62
However, appropriate measures would be taken at the time of drilling itself to
attenuate noise level to the acceptable limit during operation stage of the drilling.
Also effort will be made to use special construction equipment having low noise
generation during construction stage. The generated noise would be controlled to
reduce it to an acceptable level at the project site boundary by means of isolation.

These measures would be adequate to limit the incremental change in background

noise level to a minimal. It is expected that the drilling activities at the sites would
not have any major adverse impact on community noise level.

3.9 Water Environment

Site visit was undertaken and monitoring locations were decided on the basis of
drainage pattern, location of residential areas representing different activities/likely
impact areas and likely areas, which can represent baseline conditions.

3.9.1 Physico-chemical Characteristics

A study was undertaken to generate the baseline water quality (physico-chemical
and biological) of the region and total 10 sampling locations were identified. Samples
collected include 2 samples from River Mundeswari from the study area. The
sampling locations are listed in Table 3.13.

Table - 3.13: Details of Water Quality Monitoring Sites

S.No. Site Name Distance (Km) Location

W1 Kotalpur 6.0 (NW) Hand pump

W2 Jadupur 4.0(NE) Tube well

W3 Rautara 7.0(ESE) Hand pump

W4 Painta 9.0 (ESE) Hand pump

W5 Bealar 8.5 (ESE) Tube well

W6 Bamnagar 5(W) Tube well

W7 Jangipara 2.0(WNW) Hand pump

W8 Rampara 3.0(ESE) Hand pump

Analysis was carried out as per Standard Methods (APHA) for Examination of Water
and wastewater 1998. The results were compared with standard for drinking water IS

63
10500 as indicated in Table 3.14; data obtained on water quality for various
parameters are presented in Tables 3.15.

The results obtained for physico-chemical characteristics of Mundeswari River during

Summer season are presented in Table. 3.16.

TABLE 3.14: Standard Limits for Drinking Water (IS 10500:1991)

STANDARD LIMITS
PARAMETER UNIT
Desirable Permissible

Alkalinity mg/L 200 600

Aluminium (as Al) mg/L 0.03 0.2

Arsenic (as As) mg/L 0.01 NR

Boron (as B) mg/L 1.0 5.0

Cadmium (as Cd) mg/L 0.01 NR

Calcium (as Ca) mg/L 75 200

Chloride (as Cl) mg/L 250 1000

Chromium Hexavalent (as Cr+6) mg/L 0.05 NR

Colour Hazen 5 25

Copper (as Cu) mg/L 0.05 1.5

Cyanide (as CN) mg/L 0.05 NR

Fecal Coliform MPN/100mL Absent NR

Fluoride (as F) mg/L 1.0 1.5

Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/L 300 600

Iron (as Fe) mg/L 0.3 1.0

Lead (as Pb) mg/L 0.05 NR

Magnesium (as Mg) mg/L 30 100

Manganese (as Mn) mg/L 0.1 0.3

Mercury (as Hg) mg/L 0.001 NR

Nitrate (as NO3) mg/L 45 NR

64
 Oil & Grease mg/L 0.01 0.03

pH - 6.5-8.5 NR

Phenolic Compounds (as C6H5OH) mg/L 0.001 0.002

Selenium (as Se) mg/L 0.01 NR

Sulphate (as SO4) mg/L 200 400

Total Coliform MPN/100mL 10.0 NR

Total Dissolved Solids mg/L 500 2000

Total Residual Chlorine mg/L 0.2 -

Turbidity NTU 5 10

Zinc (as Zn) mg/L 5 15

ND – Not Detectable NR – No Relaxation

TABLE 3.15: Analysis of Water Samples

S. Sites
Parameter Unit
N. W1 W2 W3 W4 W5 W6 W7 W8

114. 119. 132.3 22.3 134.1 149 131.6 158.9

01 Alkalinity mg/L
3 9

02 Aluminium (as Al) mg/L 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.01 0.01

03 Arsenic (as As) mg/L ND ND 0.01 0.01 ND ND 0.01 ND

04 Boron (as B) mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

05 Cadmium (as Cd) mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

38.8 10.9 19.89 12.90 38.80 34.82 39.77 39.77

06 Calcium (as Ca) mg/L
0 6

43.4 6.21 31.04 11.16 8.73 8.73 8.73 8.73

07 Chloride (as Cl) mg/L
6

08 Chromium mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND
Hexavalent (as

65
 Cr+6)

09 Colour Hazen <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5

10 Copper (as Cu) mg/L 0.03 ND ND ND 0.02 0.01 0.03 ND

11 Cyanide (as CN) mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

12 Fecal Coliform 1.26 7.47 ND ND ND 1.84 ND ND

13 Fluoride (as F) mg/L 0.78 0.92 0.62 0.47 0.65 0.71 0.63 0.89

Hardness (as 124. 37.2 69.55 39.77 121.6 104.2 136.5 141.5
14 mg/L
CaCO3) 2 5 4 8 8 2

15 Iron (as Fe) mg/L 0.10 0.02 0.01 0.10 0.19 0.19 0.10 0.06

16 Lead (as Pb) mg/L ND ND ND ND ND 0.01 0.01 ND

17 Magnesium (as Mg) mg/L 6.60 2.43 4.75 0.87 6.01 4.17 9.02 10.28

18 Manganese (as Mn) mg/L 0.19 ND 0.29 0.20 0.07 ND 0.10 0.10

19 Mercury (as Hg) mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

16.5 0.58 1.84 1.26 1.26 1.07 1.16 0.78

20 Nitrate (as NO3) mg/L
9

21 Oil & Grease mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

22 pH 6.89 7.37 7.57 7.08 7.18 7.57 6.98 6.89

Phenolic ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND
23 Compounds (as mg/L
C6H5OH)

24 Selenium (as Se) mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND

12.7 1.26 1.16 1.26 0.87 0.97 3.30 6.21

25 Sulphate (as SO4) mg/L
1

CFU/ 2.0 ND 6.0 3.0 1.26 5.63 8.0 4.0

26 Total Coliform
100 ml

Total Dissolved 228. 121. 167.62 106.8 188.7 181.2 203.6 213.5
27 mg/L
Solids 4 6 0 6 9 0 9

Total Residual ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND
28 mg/L
Chlorine

29 Turbidity NTU 0.18 0.17 0.18 0.18 0.19 0.17 0.18 0.18

30 Zinc (as Zn) mg/L 0.10 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.12 0.2 0.3 0.3

66
The baseline data for surface and groundwater was collected based on its use
especially for drinking purpose by the villages. There are tube-wells, hand-pumps in
villages. Groundwater of the study area showed low to moderate mineral content.
Arsenic content was also observed in some villages though the concentration was
below limit. The variations in the levels of various parameters are: total dissolved
solids 106-228 mg/l; Hardness 37-141 mg/l. Chloride, Sulphates and magnesium
was found to be in the range of 6.21-43.46 mg/l, 1.16–12.7 mg/l and 1–10 mg/l
respectively. The pH ranges between 6.89-7.57.

Concentrations of heavy metals viz. copper, cadmium, chromium, lead, iron,

manganese and zinc were found in the range of 0.01-0.03 mg/l, not found, not found,
ND-0.01 mg/l, 0.01-0.2 mg/l, 0.01-0.3 mg/l, ND-0.1 mg/l and 0.1-0.3 mg/l
respectively.

Fig: 3.6 Location map of Water Monitoring Station

67
 TABLE 3.16: Physico-Chemical Characteristics of Mundeswari River

PARAMETER UNIT OBTAINED VALUE

Alkalinity mg/L 204

Aluminium (as Al) mg/L 0.03

Arsenic (as As) mg/L ND

BOD3 at 27°C mg/L 1.4

Boron (as B) mg/L 0.02

Cadmium (as Cd) mg/L ND

Calcium (as Ca) mg/L 54.5

Chloride (as Cl) mg/L 12

Chromium Hexavalent (as Cr+6) mg/L ND

COD mg/L 10

Colour Hazen <5

Copper (as Cu) mg/L ND

Cyanide (as CN) mg/L ND

Fluoride (as F) mg/L 0.85

Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/L 176

Iron (as Fe) mg/L 0.13

Lead (as Pb) mg/L ND

Magnesium (as Mg) mg/L 9.7

Manganese (as Mn) mg/L 0.03

Mercury (as Hg) mg/L ND

Nitrate (as NO3) mg/L 1.0

Oil & Grease mg/L ND

pH - 7.9

Phenolic Compounds (as C6H5OH) mg/L ND

68
 Selenium (as Se) mg/L ND

Total Dissolved Solids mg/L 198

Total Suspended Solids mg/L 42

Turbidity NTU 3.4

Zinc (as Zn) mg/L 0.01

Total Coliform CFU/100 ml 200

River Mundeswari flows through the area. The monitored river showed pH value of 7
.9 indicating water is in alkaline nature, turbidity is between 3.1 NTU and total
suspended solids 42 mg/l. Moderate minerals content was observed in the samples
collected from river. Nutrient values, in the form of nitrate, were found to be less.
BOD and COD were found to be 1 .4 and 10 respectively. Buffering capacity in terms
of alkalinity was found to be 204 mg/l presented in Table - 3.16.

3.9.2 Bacteriological Characteristics

Coliform group of organisms are indicators of fecal contamination in water. Water

samples were analyzed for total and fecal coliforms deploying membrane filtration
technique. Bacteriological quality of surface and groundwater is presented in Table
3.15. The total coliform and fecal coliform are found in the range of ND to 7.4
CFU/100 ml and ND to 8 CFU/100 ml in Ground waters whereas total coliform was
200 CFU/100 ml in surface water respectively.

3.9.3 Biological Characteristics

Studies on biological characteristics of water are important in EIA studies in view of

the conservation of environmental quality and safety of natural flora and fauna
including human being. As biological community depends on the conditions and
resources of its location, it changes according to the changes in the habitat. The
impact of pollution in aquatic ecosystem manifests itself first on the biotic aquatic
ecosystem communities. The species composition of aquatic organisms in natural
communities is directly related to water quality. The response of animals and plants
to pollutants when measured quantitatively, gives an imminent into the condition of
existing aquatic ecosystem.

Because of complex inter-relationship, a change in the ecosystem causes one or

more of the pollutants to change and be replaced by others, distinguishable as a
different community. The changes in the diversity of biological communities, as a
result of pollution in an aquatic ecosystem, can be mathematically expressed as

69
diversity indices. Organic wastes eliminate sensitive organisms and provide food for
the surviving tolerant forms. However, with natural stream purification, water quality
improves so that the tolerant forms can flourish and subsequently diversity
increases. On the other hand, toxic material eliminates sensitive organisms, and
because of the restriction of food to that naturally occurring in the stream, numbers
of tolerant surviving forms are limited. Very toxic materials may eliminate all
organisms below a waste source. Thus, the nature and quality of such biological
species in a particular environment is dependent on various physico-chemical
characteristics of water and also on the nature of water body.

In fact, estimation with respect to plankton community structure in a water body

would indicate its quality as follows:

(a) Indicator Organisms

Organisms have been listed in standard publications according to increasing tropic

levels of aquatic environment. Increasing dominance of diatoms, flagellates, ciliates
etc. indicate progressively increasing tropic conditions. Presence of
euglenophycease indicates highly eutrophic conditions. Also, an increase in the
abundance of total rotifers indicates advancing eutrophication.

(b) Diversity

Diversity of planktons depends on physico-chemical characteristics of water

especially on trophic levels. In oligotrophic water diversity of plankton is high. While
with increasing levels of pollution such as mesotrophic and eutrophic condition
diversity of planktons decreases. Shannon Weaver Index is a measure of diversity of
planktons, which takes into account the total count, and individual species count in a
water sample.

d = - S (ni/n) log2 (ni/n)

Where,

d = Shannon Weaver Diversity Index

ni = number of individual of each individual species in a sample

n = total number of individual and of all species in the sample

It is also noted that the diversity is susceptible to other parameters like turbidity,
color, flow rate etc.

70
 A widely accepted ecological concept is that the communities with large number of
species (i.e. with high diversity) will have high stability that can resist adverse
environmental factors and thus greater is the structural complexity of the food web.
The index values of 3 and above are generally considered healthy conditions of
water bodies. The values between 1 and 3 and less than 1 are believed to be for
semi and poor-productivity respectively. Systematic ecological monitoring of
population dynamics and species composition of relevant parts of the ecosystems in
surface water and groundwater around refinery complex was carried out.

The biological characteristics in terms of phytoplankton for surface and groundwater

are presented in Tables 3.17-3.20. Total counts in surface water was varied from
220-560 No/ml. Phytoplanktons were recorded in four groups, out of which
Chlorophyceae is the dominant group. The Shannon-Weaver Diversity Index for
phytoplanktons was varies from 1.37- 2.42 surface water, whereas groundwater are
devoid of any planktonic population.

Samples show zooplankton population from 960-1800 No/m3 in surface water. The
Shannon Weaver Diversity Index of zooplanktons that was found to vary in the range
of 1.96-2.46 in surface water indicates low to moderate productivity.

Table 3.17: Biological Parameters – Phytoplankton

Phyto- Percentage Composition of Algal Group

Sampling Shannon Wiener
S.N. Plankton
Locations Diversity Index
(No/ml) Chlorophyceae Cyanophyceae Euglenophyceae

Surface Water (Mundeswari River)

1. Down stream 125 14 08 11 2.01

2. Upstream 120 12 08 09 2.98

Ranges of Shannon Wiener Diversity Index

<1: Indicate maximum impact of pollution or adverse factor

1-2: Indicate medium impact of pollution or adverse factor

>2: Indicate lowest or no impact of pollution or adverse factor

71
 Table 3.18: Phytoplankton Species Observed in Water Sample

Bacillariophyceae Chlorphyceae Cyanophyceae Euglenophyceae

Merismopedia.
Navicula sp. Chlorococcum sp. Euglena sp.
sp
Spriogyra sp Volvox sp.

Cosmarium sp.

Ankistrodesmus sp.

Senedesmus sp.

Oedogonium sp.

Table 3.19: Biological Parameters – Zooplankton

Zoo Percentage Composition of Group

Sampling Shannon Wiener
S.No. plankton
Locations Protozoa Copepoda Rotifera Cladosera Diversity Index
(No/m3)

Surface Water (Mundeswari River)

1. Upstream 768 21 15 33 48 1.81

2. Down stream 747 57 11 42 - 1.78

Ranges of Shannon Wiener Diversity Index

<1: Indicate maximum impact of pollution or adverse factor

1-2: Indicate medium impact of pollution or adverse factor

>2: Indicate lowest or no impact of pollution or adverse factor

Table 3.20: Zooplankton Species Observed in Water Sample

Protozoa Rotifera Cladocera Copepoda

Paramecium aurelia Keratella Tropicana Monia sp. Nauplius sp.

Glaucoma sp. Keratella procurva Daphinia pulex Cyclops sp.

Colpoda sp. Brachionus paltulus Eucyclops sp.

Steinii sp. Branchionus plicatilis Mesocyclops hyalinus

Pyriformis sp. Monostyla bulla

72
Analyses Mundeswari River water indicate medium to no impact of pollution or
adverse factor

3.10 Soil Characteristics

The term soil refers to the loose material composed of weathered rocks, other
minerals and also partly decayed organic matter that covers large parts of the earth's
surface. Soil is an essential component of the terrestrial ecosystem. Soil also acts as
a medium of transport of various dissolved materials to the underlying ground water.
Hence, the impact of the proposed project on soil needs to be understood to properly
plan the mitigating measures wherever required.

The effects of pollution particularly acidity may have detrimental consequences for
crops through disruption of hydrogen ion balance within cells, through enhanced loss
of important nutrients or by other means. However, acidity can be neutralized on leaf
surfaces through natural dilution or through buffering effects of the plant tissues and
physiological processes which tend to resist changes in Hydrogen ion concentration.
The study is intended to specify the agricultural potentials of the soil and the possible
impact on soil quality due to the emission from proposed power plant.

3.10.1 Soil Pattern

On the basis of the physical, topographical, physiological and geological
structure, Indian soil has been divided into following different categories:

 Red soil
 Laterite soil
 Red and yellow soil
 Shallow soil
 Medium and deep black
 Black soil
 Coastal alluvium
 Alluvial soil
 Grey brown soils
 Desert soil
 Terai soil
 Brown hill soil
 Sub mountain soil


The district is a part of the proper Delta and its topographical homogeneity is
remarkable. The district is formed of recent alluvium. The land in the west of
Darakeswar has a perceptible rise in elevation and some undulations. The land is

73
rocky as a continuation of the Bankura terrain at a higher elevation. The district is
sloping from the north-west to the south-east and drained by important rivers of the
Dwarkeswar, the Mundeswari, the Damodar and the Bhagirathi. The slope varies a
couple of inches to more than a foot per mile. The slope is more marked in the
portion west of the river Dwarkeswar. There is a flat alluvial plain intersected by the
rivers and streams between Bhagirathi and Dwarkeswar rivers. This plain occupies
7/8th of the district. A number of saucer-shaped depressions are observed here and
there between the rivers. All these marshy depressions are more common in
Chandernagar sub-division. The saucer like depressions acts as the receiver of the
drainage water from the surrounding lands. The soils found in the region are mainly
alluvial. The type of older alluvium with hard rocks of laterite debris is found
stretching in the western part of the region. Laterite washing from the high lands of
the Bankura has made the district quite rich in laterite content.
Almost the entire area except the triangular portion, west of the river Dwarkeswar
comprising the Goghat I and II blocks of the district is a flat alluvial plain intersected
by a number of sluggish rivers and streams. On the vast gradational surface the only
marked topographical variation are those associated with the numerous shift and
diversions of rivers, an unequal aggradations rendering some surface above flood
level and other below water table (Koley,1984). The district is well watered by a
number of rivers which include large rivers like Bhagirathi, the Damodar and the
Rupnarayan and the smaller streams like the Behula, the Kana nadi, the Saraswati,
the Mundeswari etc. It is enriched with fertile alluvial soil of two different types, older
alluvium and the newer alluvium. The older alluvium occurring in the western most
triangle isthe detritus of Bankura upland being partly laterized and deficient in
nitrogen, humus and lime. The new alluvium varies in texture from sandy to clayey.
The soil as the whole is fertile and is periodically enriched by fresh deposit of silt
from the overflow of the rivers. The soil map of Hugli district is shown in Figure 3.3.
The major soil type occurring in the district is given in Table 3.21.
Table- 3.21 : Major Soil Types

Percent (%) of total

Type of soil Area (‘000 ha)
cultivable area

1. Clayey 64.84 29

2. Clayey Loam 80.50 36

3. Loamy 76.26 35

74
These soils are mostly sandy to sandy loam in texture. They are porous and grey to
black in color. As a consequence of leaching of bases due to heavy rains in this
region soil reaction is strongly to moderately acidic (pH 4.0 to 6.0). Organic matter
content in this soil is medium to high and is not well decomposed (raw humus type).
Available phosphorus is medium and potassium is low to medium in the soil.
Phosphate fixation capacity is high. Some nutrients like calcium and magnesium are
deficient. Deficiency of some micronutrients is also found in certain areas. In strongly
acid soils aluminum toxicity to plants is common. Apart from acidity and micronutrient
deficiency there are other problems like water erosion and deposition of sands on
cultivated lands due to frequent flash floods from rivers originating from hills.

Figure 3.7: Soil Map of Hugli District

The analysis results of soil samples are given in Table- 3.22-3.29.

3.10.2 Soil Quality Assessment

For studying soil profile of the region, sampling locations were selected to assess the
existing soil conditions in and around the proposed extension units covering various
distances and directions. The physical, chemical parameters and heavy metal
concentrations in soil samples were determined.

Soil samples were collected from different places around the proposed extension
units. At each site samples were collected from a depth of 6" and mixed together to
form a composite sample. Large stones, gravels and plant roots were removed from
the soil. The soil was then crushed and passed through a 100 mesh sieve. The
sieved soil was used for analysis.
Samples were collected during study period i.e. December 2012, representing winter
season. The present study on the soil profile establishes the baseline characteristics
around the proposed project site. The sampling locations have been identified with
the following objectives:

75
  To determine the baseline soil characteristics
 To determine the impact on soils more importantly from agricultural productivity
point of view.

The details of these Soil Sampling locations along with their distances and directions
are shown in Table- 3.22. Location of these sampling points has also been shown in
Figure- 3.7.
Table- 3.22 : Soil samples locations

S.N. Code Name of Village Distance (Km)

1 S1 Kotalpur 6

2 S2 Rautara 7

3 S3 Bealar 8

4 S4 Jangipara 4

5 S5 Rampara 4

The analysis results of soil samples are given in Table- 3.23-3.29.

S-1
Amdai-A
S-2

S-3

S-4
Raspur-A
S-5

Figure- 3.8 – Soil Sampling Sites

76
 Table – 3.23: Soil Sample from Kotalpur

PARAMETER UNIT OBTAINED VALUE

Arsenic (as As) g/gm ND

Cadmium (as Cd) g/gm ND

Calcium % 3.42

Chromium Total (as Cr) g/gm ND

Conductivity mhos/cm 143.2

Copper (as Cu) g/gm 5.32

Iron (as Fe) g/gm 163.3

Lead (as Pb) g/gm 5.23

Magnesium (as Mg) g/gm 11.2

Mercury (as Hg) g/gm ND

Nickel (as Ni) g/gm 3.72

pH - 6.8

Phosphate (as PO4) g/gm 126

Potassium (as K) g/gm 841

Sodium(as Na) g/gm 1439

Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (as N) % 0.063

Zinc (as Zn) g/gm 15.42

ND – Not Detectable

77
 Table – 3.24: Soil Sample from Rautara

PARAMETER UNIT OBTAINED VALUE

Arsenic (as As) g/gm ND

Cadmium (as Cd) g/gm ND

Calcium % 1.36

Chromium Total (as Cr) g/gm 1.43

Conductivity mhos/cm 386

Copper (as Cu) g/gm 95.4

Iron (as Fe) g/gm 428

Lead (as Pb) g/gm 21.4

Magnesium (as Mg) g/gm 20.5

Mercury (as Hg) g/gm ND

Nickel (as Ni) g/gm 11.58

pH - 7.4

Phosphate (as PO4) g/gm 327

Potassium (as K) g/gm 1536

Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (as N) % 0.55

Zinc (as Zn) g/gm 16.76

ND – Not Detectable

Table – 3.25: Soil Sample from Bealar

PARAMETER UNIT OBTAINED VALUE

Arsenic (as As) g/gm ND

Cadmium (as Cd) g/gm ND

Calcium % 1.6

78
Chromium Total (as Cr) g/gm 15.7

Conductivity mhos/cm 105

Copper (as Cu) g/gm 43.9

Iron (as Fe) g/gm 2534

Lead (as Pb) g/gm 12.57

Magnesium (as Mg) g/gm 43.84

Mercury (as Hg) g/gm ND

Nickel (as Ni) g/gm 47.22

pH - 7.1

Phosphate (as PO4) g/gm 253

Potassium (as K) g/gm 1754

Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (as N) % 0.07

Zinc (as Zn) g/gm 16.3

ND – Not Detectable

Table – 3.26: Soil Sample from Jangipur/Rampara

PARAMETER UNIT OBTAINED VALUE

Arsenic (as As) g/gm ND

Cadmium (as Cd) g/gm ND

Calcium % 2.3-2.33

Chromium Total (as Cr) g/gm 11.2

Conductivity mhos/cm 301-305

Copper (as Cu) g/gm 64.8-64.5

Iron (as Fe) g/gm 1347-1250

79
 Lead (as Pb) g/gm 14.86-15.2

Magnesium (as Mg) g/gm 29.6-28.7

Mercury (as Hg) g/gm ND

Nickel (as Ni) g/gm 14.4-14.32

pH - 6.8

Phosphate (as PO4) g/gm 374-372

Potassium (as K) g/gm 2486

Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (as N) % 0.071

Zinc (as Zn) g/gm 24.63

ND – Not Detectable

The soil of an area has direct/indirect effects on the plants and animals. Among the
key soil factors that need to be assessed are pH, nutrients and trace elements.
Soil quality assessment of the proposed extension site and its surroundings is as
follows:
pH
Soil pH is caused by a particular set of chemical reactions. Therefore, determination
of pH is one of the important tests used to diagnose plant growth problems. The
major effects of pH are biological. Some organisms have rather small tolerances to
variations in pH, but other organisms can tolerate a wide pH range. The greatest
influence of pH on plant growth is the effect of availability of nutrients. Soil behaves
like a buffered weak acid and it will resist sharp changes in pH accordingly.
Presence of high level of SO2 and NOx in the atmosphere, however, can cause a
large drop in the soil pH due to acid rain precipitation. Total amount of clay and
organic matter in soil and the nature of the inorganic clay determine the extent to
which soils are buffered.

Soils containing large amount of mineral clay and organic matter are said to be
usually buffered and require large amount of addition of lime to increase the pH.
Table – 3.27 gives the pH values of the different categories of soil. Depending upon
the pH of particular soil, plant species can be selected.

80
 Table – 3.27: Soil Categories at Different pH

pH Range Categories

< 4.5 Extremely Acidic

4.5 - 5.5 Strongly Acidic

5.6 - 6.5 Slightly Acidic

6.6 - 7.3 Neutral Soil

7.4 - 8.4 Moderate Alkaline

8.5 - 9.0 Strongly Alkaline

> 9.1 Extremely Alkaline

The analysis results indicate that soil in the region is acidic in nature. There is a
variation of pH range from 6.5 to 7.1 at these locations.
Nutrients
Other than essential elements like Hydrogen, Carbon and Oxygen many other
elements are required by plants which though required in lesser quantity are very
essential for the proper growth and development of plants. These are generally
divided into Macro and Micro nutrients.

Macro Nutrients
Elements which are required by plants in concentration exceeding 1 PPM, often ten
times of that or more, are called Macro nutrients. These include calcium,
Phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and nitrogen. Table- 3.28 gives the range of
different nutrients present in soils.

Table- 3.28: Amount of Macro Nutrients present in surface soils

Nutrients Range ordinarily expected in Indian soil

(%)

Calcium 0.07 - 3.6

Nitrogen 0.03 - 0.6

Magnesium 0.12 - 1.5

Potassium 0.17 - 3.3

Phosphorus 0.01 - 0.2

81
Calcium
It is an extremely important mineral in plant nutrition which is required by all
plants. It is absorbed by the plant as Ca2+ from the soil by contact exchange. The
calcium present in soil has its origin in rocks and minerals from which the soil was
formed. However, some calcium is added to the soil through fertilizers or direct lime
addition. Calcium is present in all soils in different forms. The calcareous soils have
higher amount of calcium than the acidic soils. It is generally present in soils in the
following four groups: Mineral particles, Calcium carbonate, Simple salts and
exchangeable calcium.

Calcium is essential for the growth and functioning of the root tips. Calcium
deficiency may have two effects on the plant:-

 Causes a stunting of the root system.

 Fairly characteristic appearance to the leaf.
Calcium deficiency may have an indirect effect on the plant by allowing other
substances to accumulate in the tissues so much so that they may either lower the
vigor or actually harm the plant. Thus a good calcium supply helps to neutralize
the undesirable side effects of an unbalanced distribution in the soil of nutrients
and other compound that can be taken up by the plant.

The amount of calcium present in surface soils from Humid, Arid temperate and
humid tropical regions is given in Table- 3.28. The values of Calcium present in soil
samples in and around the drilling area vary from 5.2 to 1.2 %. It can be concluded
that the amount of Calcium present at these locations is sufficient for plant growth.

Magnesium
Magnesium is needed by all green plants as it is a constituent of chlorophyll. It
also plays an important role in the transport of phosphate in the plant. Soils
commonly contain between 14.6 to 35.5 g/gm of Magnesium. The availability of
magnesium depends upon the nature, texture, pH and composition of the soil. The
loss of magnesium through leaching is very high as compared to other minerals.

The level of magnesium in soil samples collected from locations in and around
site indicate that Mg is sufficient in soil and supports plant growth.

Potassium
Potassium is essential in all cell metabolism process. It influences the uptake of
other elements and affects both respiration and transpiration. It also encourages the
synthesis and translocation of carbohydrates thereby encouraging cell wall
thickening and stem strength. A deficiency can cause yellowing of the leaf tip and

82
margins and is usually the result of leaching. Potassium is generally present in the
following three forms in the soil:

 Unavailable
 Readily available
 Slowly available
90 -98% of the total potassium is in the unavailable form as feldspars and mica etc.,
1 -10 % is in the slowly available form and only 1 - 2 % is in the readily available
form. The potassium found in the soil samples varied from 0.07 to 0.12%. The level
of potassium in soil samples from different sites is slightly deficient and soil in this
region has to be supplemented by addition of chemical fertilizers for growing crops.

Phosphorus
Phosphorus, among the major plant nutrients, plays a key role in the
development of the plant, in influencing the maturity of the crops and also in the
quality and quantity of the crop. It occurs in the soil in both organic and inorganic
forms. In the inorganic form it is present in combination with calcium, iron,
aluminium and soil colloids. In organic forms it is present as phytin and nucleic
acid complexes, and the presence of these forms are governed by the nature of the
organic matter and the history of its development in the soil. Analysis of total
phosphorus content of several surface soils in India is given in Table 3.29 below:

Table – 3.29: Average Total Phosphorus Content of Soils of Various States

(Ref: Soil Fertility - Theory & Practice; J.S. Kanwar)

State Percent

Punjab 0.02

Gujarat 0.021

Assam 0.04

W. Bengal 0.03

Bihar 0.08

Orissa 0.08

Tamil Nadu 0.05

Maharashtra 0.23

83
The values obtained indicate that Phosphorus in the soil varies from 0.18 to 0.26 %.
The overall values of Phosphorus at different sites show that it is sufficient for plant
growth.

Nitrogen
As a constituent of protoplasm, Nitrogen is vitally associated with the activity of every
living cell. The deficiency of Nitrogen results in light green colour of the foliage,
stunted growth and decrease in yield and quality of fruits, vegetables and grain. On
the other hand, excess of Nitrogen stimulates excessive vegetative growth
and induces disease susceptibility. Roots take up N in the form NO 3 - and NH4 +.
Plants also have the ability to absorb N through the leaves.

Indian soils have low nitrogen content because of tropical climate. The high mean
annual temperature of India hinders Nitrogen accumulation in the soils. The average
Nitrogen content of major soil groups of India is shown in Table 3.30.

Table – 3.30: Nitrogen Content of Major Soil Groups of India

(Ref: Soil Fertility-Theory and Practice; J.S. Kanwar)

Soil Group Nitrogen (%)

Indus alluvium 0.05

Gangetic alluvium 0.04

Medium 0.05

Deep 0.06

Red Soils 0.03

Laterite Soils 0.04

Indian soils have low Nitrogen content because of the tropical climate. The high
mean annual temperature of India hinders N accumulation in the soils. The level of
Nitrogen for the soil sample (24.6 to 32.2) indicates that in most of the areas it is in
deficient quantity in the soil. However, the total content of Nitrogen is normally
improved by externally adding Nitrogen compounds through application of

84
fertilizers in the soil along with organic matter that will mineralize the added
nitrogen which will then be available to the plants growing on them.

Conductivity:
The uptake of minerals from soil by plants is directly proportional to the electrical
conductivity of soil which is responsible for plant growth. Conductivity is a measure
of evaluating the salt status of soils, the high concentration of which impairs the
growth of the plant. Crop plants differ in their tolerance to salinity. However the levels
of conductivity in soils less than 2 miliohmos are not affected by salinity effects.

Table – 3.31: Conductivity Ranges in Soils

Conductivity Ranges in Soils

Salinity – Electrical Conductivity Categories
(1 mmho/cm = 640 ppm)
Upto 1.00 Average

1.01 – 2.00 Harmful for germination

2.01 – 3.00 Harmful to crops

The soil analysis results in the region indicate that in all the samples conductivity is
low indicating that the salinity effects on the soil are negligible.

Trace elements:
The trace elements content in the soil is dependent almost entirely on that of the
rocks from which the soil parent material was derived and on the processes of
weathering to which the soil forming materials have been subjected.

The higher concentration of trace elements in soil may occur due to industrial
activities in and around the premises. Hazards arise if these metals are made
available to the growing plants by altering the soil conditions such as pH, moisture,
nature of exchange complex etc. The range of heavy metals in Indian soil is given in
Table 3.32.

Table- 3.32: Trace metal analysis in soil sample

Trace
Unit Concentration in soil
metals

85
 Cd µg/g ND – 4

Pb µg/g 15 - 94

Ni µg/g 7 – 44

As µg/g ND

Hg µg/g ND

Fe µg/g 730 - 18840

ND - Not Detectable

The trace elements in the soil samples collected in and around the proposed site are
within the ranges given in Table- 3.32. Hence it can be inferred that trace metals in
the soil of the region are not injurious for crops and vegetation.

3.10.3 Land Use Pattern

The land use pattern in the region varies from village to village depending upon the
availability of irrigation water, cultivable lands and other factors. Mostly the land is
being used for agricultural activities. In most of the villages, the rain-fed area
predominates. The land use pattern of Hugli district is given in Table – 3.33 and
depicted in Figure 3.5.

Table 3.33: Land Use Pattern

(Source – Directorate of Agriculture (Evaluation)-Govt. of W.B.)

Area
Hugli
(in `000 Hectares)

Forest 0.530

Non-agricultural area 89.12

Barren land 0.11

Permanent pasture& other grazing 0.05

Land under Misc. tree groves not

1.89
included in Net area sown

Cultivable waste Land 1.33

Fallow land other than current fallow 0.1

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 Current Fallow 0.34

Net Area sown 220.35

Geographical Area 317.09

Figure – 3.8 Satellite Map for Land Use Pattern

3.11 Ecology

The district is a completely flat land with no place having more than an elevation of
200 meters. The River Hooghly borders it to the east. Another major river is
'Damodar'. The district is bordered by Howrah District to the south, Bardhaman
District to the north, and to the east by the River Hooghly. Bankura District lies to the
north-west, with Medinipur District to the south-west.

Crops & Vegetation

The district is preliminarily agricultural in nature. Due to its diverse and high
production of various crops like Jute, Potato, Ginger, Spices and Pineapple etc. the
district has a strong base for agro based and horticulture- based industry

Main crops in the nearby areas are as follows:

i. Food Crops : Rice, Wheat, Barley, Maize

ii. Pulses : Gram, Tur, Khesari, Lentil, Maskalai,Kulthi
iii. Oil seeds : Mustard, Rape seed, Linseed, Til
iv. Vegetables : Chilli, Tomato, Brinjal, cauliflower, Cabbage,
Onion, Radish

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Major crop production in the Uttar Dinajpur districts is shown in Table - 3.34.

Table – 3.34: Production and Productivity of Major Crops

Production
Productivity
Name of the Crop
(Kg/Ha)
(in MT)

Rice 340.79 8330

Potato 1960.34 20889

Wheat 1.38 2110

Oilseeds 40.86 1127

Pulses 1.278 758

Maize 0.46 2531

Cucurbits 152.97 NA

Brinjal 123.59 16176

Okra 40.29 10859

Cauliflower 90.35 25167

(Source: Hugli District profile 2011)

The species of Plants in the study area are as given below:

LOCAL NAME BOTANICAL NAME

Sal Shorearo busta

Akashmoni Acacia auriculaeformis

Eucalyptus Eucalyptus hybrid

Arjun Terminalia arjuna

Asan Tetrameles nudiflora

Bahera Terminalia bellirica

Chelikadam Anthocephalus kadamba

Doka Lanneacoro mandelica

Haldu Adina cordifolia

Haritaki Terminali achebula

Kachmola Bridelia retusa

88
Kaju Anacardium occidentale

Khayer Acacia chundra

Lahara Anogeis suslatifolia

Mahua Madhuca indica

Neem Azadirachta indica

Peal Buchananial anzan

Peasal Pterocarpusmar supium

Segun Tectona grandis

Sidha Lagerstroemia parviflora

Simul Bombax ceiba

Siris Abelia chinensis

Sisoo Dalbergia sissoo

Valai Semicarpus anacardium

The flora of the district is characterized by the arborescent species such as Simul
(Salmaliamalabarica Schott. & Endl.), Neem (Azadirachtaindica), Amlaki
(Phyllanthusembica), LanneacoromandelicaMerr., Narikel (cocosnucifera),
Khejur(Phoenix dactylifera L.), Tal (Borassusflabellifer L.), Bat (Ficusbengalensis L.),
Asvattha (Ficusreligiosa L.), Palas (Buteafrondosa) , Krishnachuda
(CaesalpiniaPulcherrima), Am (Mangiferaindica L.)and shrubby species such as
ashsheoda (Glycosmispentaphylla Corr.), Pianj, Rasun, Rajanigandha
(PolyanthestuberosaWilld.), Ghentuor Bhat (ClerodendroninfortunatumGaertn.),
Kurabaka (BarleriaCristata), Gulancha (Tinosporacordifolia), Tulsi (Ocimum
sanctum), Solanumtorvum SW., S. Verbascifolium L., Tremaorientalis Bl., Shiora
(StreblusasperLour.)and Dumur (Ficushispida L.).

The uplands and the laterite area of the district are in places covered with Sal
(ShorearobustaGaertn.), Mohua (Madhnealatifolia),Palas (Buteamonosperma), Bans
(Bambusaarundinacea), Shireesha (Albizzialebbek), Arka (Calotropisgigantea),
KendDiospyrosmelanoxylon), Arjun (TerminaliaArjuna) and Ashan (T. tomentosa).
The common plants in hedges and wastelands are lal-bharenda

89
(Jatrophagossypifolia L.), Ban-okra (Urenalobata L.), HeliotropiumstrigosumWilld.,
Hati-soond (H. indicum L.), Ulu(Imperataarundinecea),
SidaveronicifoliaLam.,S.cordifoliaL., etc.

The common aquatic and marsh weeds found in the jheelsans swamps in the
eastern parts of the district are Keshe(Saccharumspentaneum), Bena
(Andropogonsquarrosus), Caesulia axillaries Roxb., Ganj or pata-sola
(Vallisneriaspiralis L.),Jhangi (Hydrillaverticillatalasp.), Pond weed
(potamogetenindicusRoxb. and P. crispus L.),Kesar-dam (Jussiaearepens L.), Kush
(Eragrostiscynosuroides), common Jhangi(Utriculariastellaris L.F. and U.
flexuosaVahl.), Pana(LemnapancicostataHegelm), WodffiaarrhizaWimm.,
Mootha(Cyperusrotundus),CeratopteristhalictroidesBrogn,
Monochoriahastaefoliaand M. VaginalisPresl.., Water hyacinth (Eichorniacrassipes),
OtteliaAlismoides pers., Bara-pana(Pistiastratiotes L.), Sagittariaguayanansis H.B.K.,
Najasgraminea Del., Hogla(Typhaangustata Chub. &Bory),Hygrorhizaaristata Nees,
Leersiahexandra Swand Padma (Nelumbium speciosum).

3.12 Sanctuary, National Park & Forests

There is no Wild Life Sanctuary, National Park or Biosphere Reserve within a radius
of 10 km of the proposed Drilling site. The area is predominantly agricultural based.
There is no Wild Life Sanctuary, National Park or Biosphere Reserve within a
radius of 10 km of the proposed Drilling site. The area is predominantly
agricultural based.

3.12.1 Forest & Vegetation

The area in this district under Forest is 9 sq km. The forest type is mainly tropical..
The distribution of forests is very erratic and mostly spread in small pockets. The
Composition of Forests in the District is indicated in Table 3.38. However there is no
forest area in 10 Km vicinity of the proposed drilling sites. The total Forest area is
hardly 0.10 percent of the total Geographical area.

The forest type is mainly Northern tropical Most Mixed Deciduous Forests. The
distribution of forests is very erratic and mostly spread in small pockets. The
Composition of Forests in the District is indicated in Table 3.38. However there is no
forest area in 10 Km vicinity of the proposed drilling sites

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The most common species found within the forests area are Sissoo (Dalbergia
sissoo), Simul (Bombex Ceiba) Siris (Albizzia lebbeck) Akashmoni (Acacia
auriculiformis), Khair (Acacia catechu), Lali (Amoora wallichii), Khadam
(Anthocephalus kadamba), Mingiri (Cassia siamea), Eucalyphus Spp., Sidha
(Lagerstroemia perviflora), Jarul (Lagerstroemia speciosa), Sal (Shorea robusta),
Sheora(Strebulus asper), Arjun (Terminalia arjuna) etc. Teak (Tectona grandis) is
also available sporadically in some patches. The forests in this district are mainly
plantation. Sal is mainly of coppice origin. The total Forest area is hardly 0.45
percent of the total Geographical area. There is no Wild Life Sanctuary, National
Park or Biosphere Reserve within a radius of 10 km of the proposed Drilling site. The
area is predominantly agricultural based.

Table 3.35: Composition of Forests in the District

Status of the Forest Area Sq Km

Reserved Forest 3

Dense forest 0

Moderate Dense Forest 9

Open forest 52

Total Forest Area 64

3.12.2 Fauna

The carnivora of the district comprise leopard, wolf, hyaena, jackal and other smaller
species, but hyaenas and leopards are not common. Tigers were formerly common
in the district, especially in the jungles of the Asansol subdivision adjoining the
Jharkhand, but have now entirely disappeared. Wolves are scarce, and are mostly
met with in the jungles north of Kanksa. Wild pigs are numerous throughout the
district and monkeys also abound including the variety known as Hanuman. In the
hilly areas an occasional python is met with. Poisonous snakes are very common

91
and include several kinds of cobra, the karait and the deadly Russell's viper. Other
most frequently seen varieties are the Dhamna and various species of harmless
grass snakes.

The common avifauna of the district are pea-fowl, jungle-fowl, jungle crow, house
crow, treepie, common babbler, common jora, gold-fronted chloropsis, red-vented
babul, red-whiskered bulbul, red spotted bluethroat, brown-backed robin, Shama,
Tickell's blue flycatcher, paradise flycatcher, wood shrike, black drongo, tailor bird,
streaked fantail warbler, golden oriole, common mayna, pied mayna, white-backed
munia, white-throated munia, spitted munia, red munia, yellow-throated sparrow,
house sparrow, woodpecker, India cuckoo, pied crested cuckoo, koel, parakeet,
nilkantha, bee-eater, kingfisher, hornbill, hoopoe, horned owl, spotted owlet, jungle
owlet, griffon vulture, long-billed vulture, scavenger vulture, lagger falcon, small
spotted eagle, brahminy kite, pariah kite, sparrow hawk, various types of pigeon and
dove, goose, duck, teal, lapwing, white necked stork and several varieties of egret
and heron. The low-lying swampy areas being in line of migration provide a very
good sheltering place for the migratory birds in winter.

Table 3.36: List of Bird in Hugli District

Oriental White-backed Gyps bengalensis

Vulture

Long-billed Vulture Gyps indicus

Lesser Adjutant Leptoptilos javanicus

Baer‟s Pochard Aythya baeri

Indian Skimmer Rynchops albicollis

Darter Anhinga melanogaster

Ferruginous Pochard Aythya nyroca

Black-bellied Tern Sterna acuticauda

Local birds like dove, bulbul, sparrow, king fisher, woodpeckers, owl, duck & cuckoo,
can also be seen in large numbers. The migratory birds arrive from end of May to 1 st
week of July and depart from mid-December to end of January. The nesting time is
from July to August & egg laying from August to September.

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3.12.3 Medicinal plants in the district

Tulsi, Sarpagandha, Aswagandha, Kalomegh, Alovera are the major medicinal and
aromatic plants as possible export items which are being planted in some parts of
the district.

3.13 Lakes, Ponds, Reservoirs & Fisheries

There is no major Pond or Lake within a radius of 10 km. around the drilling site. There
are no major fisheries within this zone. However, small fishermen are engaged in fishing
activity in local ponds in this region.

Principal catches from the rivers are as follows: Rohu (L.rohita), Mrigle (C. mrigala),
Katla (Catlacatla), Kharke Bata (C. reba), Bhangan Bata (L. bata), Shrimps
(Metapeneus spp.) Maurala (A. mola), Pabda (C. pabda), Tengra (Mystus spp.), Bele
(G. gurius), Chela (C. bacaila), Punti (Barbus app.), Boal (Wallageattu.), Aid
(Mystusseenghala), Galda (Palaomen spp.), Vacha (E. vacha), Chital (N. chitala),
Pholoi (N. notopterus), Khaira (Gadusiachapra), Fensa (E. telara), Silon (S. silondia),
Bhola (Sciaenacoitor) etc.

3.14 Demography and Socio-economics

In 2011, Hugli had population of 5,520,389 of which male and female were
2,819,100 and 2,701,289 respectively. In 2001 census, Hugli had a population of
5,041,976 of which males were 2,589,625 and remaining 2,452,351 were females.
The detail about area, population and density for the above district is given in Table :
3.37.

Table 3.37: Population Details

(Source - Census Book, 2011)

Description 2011 2001

Actual Population 5,520,389 5,041,976

Male 2,819,100 2,589,625

Female 2,701,289 2,452,351

Population Growth 9.49% 15.77%

93
Area Sq. Km 3,149 3,149

Density/km2 1,753 1,601

Proportion to West Bengal Population 6.04% 6.29%

As per 20011 censuses, Hugli district had a total population of 5520389, out of which
2819100 were males and 2701289 were females. Hugli district registered a
population growth of 9.49 per cent during the 2001-2011 decade. Decadal growth in
West Bengal was 17.84 per cent. The population growth in the decade is shown in
Figure 3.6.

District wise literacy level in the region is given in Table – 3.38. Average literacy rate
of Hugli in 2011 were 82.55 compared to 75.11 of 2001. If things are looked out at
gender wise, male and female literacy were 87.93 and 76.95 respectively. For 2001
census, same figures stood at 82.59 and 67.21 in Hugli District. Total literate in Hugli
District were 4,140,487 of which male and female were 2,250,780 and 1,889,707
respectively. In 2001, Hugli District had 3,333,988 in its district.

Figure 3.10 - Population growth

Table 3.38: Percentage Literacy

Literates 2,421,002 1,719,485

Male Literates 1,331,018 919,762

94
 Female Literates 1,089,984 799,723

Average Literacy 79.22 % 87.75 %

Male Literacy 85.71 % 91.34 %

Female Literacy 72.50 % 83.95 %

(Source - Census Book, 2011)

Occupational pattern in district Hugli is given in Table – 3.39. As can be seen from
the Table, Agricultural Labor comprises a major part of employed persons followed
by Household Industry Workers.

Table 3.39: Occupational Pattern

(Source – Census Book, 2011)

Household Others Main

District Cultivators Agri. Labour
Ind. Labour Workers Workers

Hugli 277901 452114 96204 1033268 1528040

3.15 Climatology:

The Climate of this district is characterized by Hot-Summer with High Humidity. The
area‟s season is well defined during mid of February to March end and October –
January is pleasant. April to August is very hot months and from mid-June to
September, this area experience heavy rains. The minimum temperature is generally
observed in the study area is 16°C and maximum temperature is 38°C. The average
relative humidity is 54 %. The Annual rainfall in the district was 1260.4 mm. The
monthly rainfall in the district is given in Table 3.40 and depicted in Figure 3.7. The
Maximum – Minimum Temperature data of Hugli is given in Table 3.41.

95
 Table 3.40: Monthly rainfall in the district of Hugli

(Millimetre)

Normal Actual
Month
2008 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

January 11 17 16 - - 25

February 8 - 7 - 20 -

March 12 1 33 8 3 26

April 61 56 55 58 21 24

May 179 134 89 140 126 185

June 328 266 272 208 379 246

July 451 539 440 362 415 434

August 320 202 414 167 297 299

September 349 197 240 259 230 235

October 127 100 260 43 27 31

November 7 - - 7 - -

December 4 1 - 9 - -

Total 1857 1513 1826 1261 1518 1505

Source: Meteorological Department, Government

Figure – 3.11: Average Annual Rainfall

500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000
an n u al rain f all (m m )

3500

Table 3.41: Maximum – Minimum Temperature data of Hugli (°C)

96
 Month 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003
Maxi Mini Maxi Mini Maxi Mini Maxi Mini Maxi Mini

January 28 7 27 7 27 6 28 10 27 8
February 34 11 28 11 31 8 25 - 30 -
March 35 15 34 15 37 12 34 - 33 16
April 37 16 37 18 39 20 36 17 35 16
May 35 20 38 21 35 20 37 20 35 17
June 37 24 35 23 35 22 35 22 37 20
July 35 24 34 24 36 - 35 25 34 21
August 33 25 37 23 36 - 35 25 35 23
September - - 35 21 35 25 36 24 - -
October - - 35 21 35 23 35 18 - -
November 31 15 29 16 - - 30 16 32 19
December 31 11 28 8 30 12 28 9 31 8
For the 37 7 38 7 39 6 37 9 37 8
year Source: Meteorological Department, Government

3.16 Defense Installations, Tourist, Historic Cultural Places

There is no defense installation or protected monuments within a radius of 10 km of

the drilling site.

3.17 Industries

There are about 55 large and medium scale industries in the district

LIST OF LARGE SCALE INDUSTRIES IN HOOGHLY DISTRICT

Sl.
Name of Industries Item of Production
No.

1 Bandel Thermal Power Plant, Bandel Electric Power

2 Dankuni Coal Complex, Dankuni Coal

3 Mother Dairy, Dankuni Milk and Curd

LIST OF MEDIUM SCALE INDUSTRIES IN HOOGHLY DISTRICT

Sl.
Name of Industries with Address Item of Production
No.

1 Hindusthan Motors Ltd., Hind Motor, Automobile Mfg.

97
 The Dunlop Rubber Company India Ltd.,
2 Rubber Tyre & Tubes
Sahaganj

3 Jaya Sree Textile & Industries, Rishra Textile Goods

4 Kessoram Rayon, Kuntighat Rayon Pulp.

5. J. K. Steel, Rishra Iron & Steel Industries

6 Tribeni Tissues, Tribeni Tissue Paper

Glass bottles, Sheetglass, Tubes

7 Hindusthan National Glass Ltd., Rishra
etc.

8 Angus Works, Baidyabati Rly Wagon Components

9 Kusum Industries, Rishra Hydrogenerated Vegetable Oils

10 Nelco Chemicals, Rishra Chemicals

11 Window Glass, Tribeni Glass Tubes and Glass Products

12 Eastern Paper Mill, Adconagore, Tribeni Paper

Jute Machineries and

13 Lagan Jute Machinery, Bhadreswar
Components

14 Durgapur Maliabe Casting, Khanyan, Pandua Iron Castings

15 Light Machinery, Khanyan, Pandua Aluminum Foils

East India Four Mills (P) Ltd., Delhi Road,

16 Wheat
Serampore

17 High Rise Rollar Flour Mill P. Ltd., Sugandhya Wheat

18 Hindustan Develop. Corpn. Ltd., Bamunari Foundry Items

19 Panchanan Cold Storage (P) Ltd., Arambagh Cold Storage

20 Hyderabad Industries Ltd., Hindmotor Indus. & Agri Machinery

21 ICI India Ltd., Rishra Rubber based chemical

Processing & Printing of Fabric,

22 Indian Rayon & Industries. Ltd., Rishra
Textile & Synthetic Wool

23 SWIL Ltd., Uttarpara Copper & Copper Alloy wire

98
24 The General Industrial Society Ltd., Baidyabati Cotton Blended yarn

25 India Foils Ltd., Hoera, Khanyan Aluminium foils

26 SS Brick Industries (P) Ltd. Fly Ash Brick

27 Pashupati Seohung Ltd., Chapsara, Serampur Rubber Contraceptive

28 Pulver Ash Ltd., BTPS, Bandel Fly Ash Brick

29 The Phosphate Co. Ltd, Rishra, SSP, Sulphuric Acid

Tirupati Ferro Alloy Udyog (P) Ltd. Niala,

30 Steel Fabrication
Khanyan

31 Lead Stone Energy Ltd., Sugandhya Lead alloys

32 Bishnu Potato Storage (P) Ltd. Pursurah Cold Storage

33 R.S.Ispat (P) Ltd, Dankuni Ingot ,Hot rolled steel products

34 Ruia Chemicals & Industries Ltd. Raghunathpur Calcium Carbonate

35 Adhunik Steel (P) Ltd., Serampur Alloy Steel

36 Eastern Jute Wool Tex (P) Ltd. Jute Yarn

37 Ganesh Steel & Alloys Limited M.S.I. ongts

38 Keshavilal Khandewal Properties Ltd. HDPE Woven Sacks

39 Premier Mettaurgical (P)Ltd. Steel Ingots

40 Anmol Biscuits (P) Ltd., Dankuni Biscuits

41 Khanakul Himghar (P) Ltd.,Khanakul Cold Storage

42 Multi Serve Rolls (P) Ltd. Cast Iron/ Steel Rolls

43 Nezone Tubes Ltd.,Dankuni Steel Tube

44 Tol India Ltd. M.S. Angles, Rods, Rounds etc

45 Walter Craven Ceramic Project India Ltd. Fly Ash Brick Mfg. Machine

46 Brand Alloys Ltd. Steel Products

47 Jainex Metallics Ltd. Ingot Casting

99
48 Star Battery, Chakundi, Dankuni Lead Acid Battery

49 Hooghly Ispat Ltd Ductile Iron Casting

50 Paceman Sales Promotion Pvt. Ltd. Refined Vegetable Oils

Vikrant Alloys & Forgings Ltd. Dankuni,Delhi Forging or Stamped but not
51
Road further Worked

Bhusan Industries Ltd. Bangihati,Delhi Road,

52 Cold Rolled Steel Sheets
Serampore

Printing inks, Lacquers,

53 Hindustan Seals Ltd.
Varnishes

Red Lead & Calcium Lead

54 Leadstone Energy Pvt. Ltd.
Litharge

55 Mukund Foods Pvt. Ltd. Maitypara, Dankuni Food Products

Ravi Timber & Allied Products, Durgapur

56 Plywood
Expressway, Panchgram, Dankuni

100
 CHAPTER – 4
4.0 Anticipated Environmental Impact & Mitigation
Measures
4.1 Environmental Impacts Associated with Drilling

The major element involved in the process of environmental impact assessment is

identification as it leads to other elements such as quantification and evaluation of
impacts. Although, in general number of impacts can be identified while describing
the project, all the impacts may not be considered significant. Hence it is necessary
to identify the critical impacts that are likely to cause significant impact on various
components of environment due to proposed exploratory drilling.
The detailed list of activities and actions described earlier in this report has been
taken into consideration for generation of cause-condition-effect network (i.e. chain
of events). This type of method has been basically advantageous in recognizing the
series of impacts that would be triggered by the proposed activities. Thus, this
method has provided a “roadmap” type of approach to the identification of second
and third order effects.
The idea was to account for the project activity and identify the types of impact,
which would initially occur. The next was to select each impact and identify the
secondary and tertiary impacts, which induced as a result. This process was
repeated until all possible impacts were identified. The greatest advantage of this
type of approach was that it allowed identifying the impacts by selecting the tracing
out the events as they are expected to occur.
While identifying the impact networks for drilling operations in the study area, all
significant activities such as land acquisition, road/site clearance, drill site
preparation, diesel generation sets, waste pits well development and work over
operations have been accounted for. The availability of energy resource (oil/gas) the
end product has been considered for the purpose of economic benefits.

The identified impacts for various components of environment viz. air, noise, water,
land and socio-economic are presented in Figure 4.1-4.5 respectively. The

101
comprehensive environmental impact network for proposed exploratory drilling in the
Block is presented in Figure 4.6. It is to be noted that in these illustrations the lines
are to read, as “has an effect on”.
Several scientific techniques and methodologies are available to predict impacts of
physico-ecological environment and socio-economic environment. Mathematical Air
Environment models are the best tools to quantitatively describe the cause and
effect relationships between sources of pollution and different components of
environment. In case, it is not possible to identify and validate a model for a
particular situation, predictions could be arrived based on extrapolations.

4.2. Impact on Air Environment

For the purpose of impact predictions on air environment emission sources can be
classified into point and area sources. There are no areas sources considered for the
purpose of predictions. The point sources identified are:
 Emission from DG Sets
 Gas flaring during testing
 Emission from vehicular movement

4.2.1 Diesel Engine/ Generator Sets:

These will be in operation 24 hours a day. Its capacity will be 380 kVA. It will
consume diesel conforming to Bharat Stage III norms with sulphur < 350mg/kg.
Pollutants from the generators will consist mainly of NOx, CO2 and PM. The
concentration of SO2 in the emitted gas will depend on the fuel source. Since diesel
contains little sulphur, using diesel as fuel will lead to low SO 2 emissions. Emissions
are expected during temporary well flaring in the event gas is discovered.
The meteorological data has been used for predictions for impacts of NOx on air
environment; an inter-active model that estimates short-term concentrations for a
number of arbitrarily located receptor points at or above ground level due to the point
sources was used.
Maximum 24 hourly GLC‟s are observed to be 0.059 μg/ m 3, 0.61 μg/ m3 & 0.15 μg/
m3 for SO2, NOX & PM respectively at a distance of 300m from the source. The
concentration limit for SO2 & NOX in the ambient air as specified by CPCB is 80 μg/

102
m3. Hence the prediction impact level due to operation of Diesel engines & DG Sets
is within prescribed limits of CPCB for ambient air quality.

4.2.2 Flaring:
Flaring of gases during testing will contribute additional pollution in terms of un burnt
hydrocarbons. A flare stack of 9 m or higher will be provided at a distance of 30m
from well. Flaring being a temporary activity will not last for more than few days.
Impact on air quality will not be significant.

4.2.3 Mitigation Measures:

 Flaring system will be properly managed.
 Water spraying will be done when required
 Engines & exhaust systems of all vehicle will be maintained

4.3 Impact on Noise Environment

Potential impacts on noise level may arise out of the following:

4.3.1 Noise from Drilling Rig
Drilling rig and machinery like DG Sets is likely to emit noise in the range of 60-65 db
(A). But as all wells will be drilled at a distance of more than 500 m from habitation,
this will reduce the impact on community.
4.3.2 Noise from Machinery
In addition to drilling noise will also be generated from heavy machinery. However,
such emission will get dispersed with increasing distance. When a mechanical rig is
in operation at its maximum efficiency, the drilling platform (derrick) can be assumed
as the location of the hypothetical source of noise at the drill site where maximum
noise levels are recorded (102 dBA). Further the noise levels recorded in various
directions at distance 50 m can be used for estimation of magnitude of the average
noise equivalent source. Noise level due to such a source works out to be 44 dBA at
a distance of 1 km (Table 4.1). As environmental attenuation, particularly due to air
absorption and crops/grass/shrubs cannot be neglected the levels will work out to be
less by 7 to 10 dBA depending on the nature of vegetation, relative humidity and
frequency of the noise. Therefore average noise levels at about 1 km from the drilling

103
rigs would be around 37-44 dBA. The overall background noise levels would
increase by 2-3 dBA and 1-2 dBA during day and night time respectively due to
drilling operations. Deployment of electrical rigs would minimize the noise levels and
impact can be minimized.
Day night sound level, Ldn is often used to describe community noise exposure
which includes 10 dBA night time. As per WHO recommendations there is no
identified risk in damage of hearing due to noise levels less than 75 dBA (Leq 8 hrs).
Most of the international damage risk criteria for hearing loss permit Leq (12 hrs) up
to 87 dBA. Further, WHO recommendations for community noise annoyance,
permits day time outdoor noise levels of 55 dBA Leq, and night time outdoor noise
level of 45 dBA Leq to meet steep criteria i.e. Leq (24 hrs) = 52.2 dBA and Ldn = 55
dBA.
The damage risk criteria for hearing, as enforced by OSHA (Occupational Safety &
Health Administration) to reduce hearing loss, stipulate that noise level up to 90 dBA
are acceptable for eight hours exposure per day. At places except the drilling
platform, continuous attendance of workers is not required. Hence, the noise levels
only at the drilling platform are of concern for occupational consideration.
4.3.3 Mitigation Measures:
 Control of noise during installation of equipment & machinery will be ensured
 Timely maintenance of machinery
 PPE will be used
4.4 Impact on Land Environment

During the drilling operation, two major sources of solid wastes are envisaged:
(i) Drill cuttings, separated on a shaker (vibrating screen) which is a part of solids
handling system attached to rig and,
(ii) Rejected drilling mud with sand and silt separated in desander and desilter
The mud used in drilling operation serves multiple functions such as: (i) to remove
and carry the drill cuttings to surface, (ii) lubricate and cool the drill bit and
suspension string, (iii) sealing of well wall and (iv) to balance formation pressure
besides many other functions. Anticorrosion and anti-scaling agents such as
ferrochromes, organo polyphosphates and amine derivate may be added.

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Drill cuttings from the well are allowed to collect in the sump below the shale shaker
and removed periodically whereas mud is recovered and sent to recycling tanks.
Around 1 to 2 MT/day of drill cutting are expected to be generated depending on
type of formation and drill performed. Drill cuttings are washed before leaving shale
shaker for recovery of attached mud. Though some mud particles are likely to be
associated with drill cuttings, the overall nature of solids will be highly inorganic. Mud
portion, which is recovered in shale shaker, passes through desander and desilter
where sand and silt is removed by centrifugal action. The sand and silt generated at
this unit is contaminated with mud particle and is allowed to flow to waste pit by
washing it down. These solids contain mainly bentonite, barite and small portion of
organics along with heavy metals. These solids accumulate at the bottom of waste
pit and possess the characteristics of natural earth materials shown in Table 4.2.
In order to predict the environmental impacts due to drilling mud reject pits,
simulating field conditions carried out laboratory studies. The studies included
investigation of leaching potential of possible hazardous constituents from these
sources.
Subsurface soils were collected from the Bengal Basin and experiments for
investigations of leaching potential of drilling mud and wastewater were carried out in
laboratory. Since pH and alkalinity can directly affect the solubility of many
parameters, especially the metals, the comparison of the two gave some indications
of the mobility of the metals. Generally, solubility of metal decreases with increase in
pH and alkalinity. On application of the drilling mud and wastewater to soils, this was
found to be true as soils were alkaline in nature. The transportation of ions revealed
that Na, Cl and metals would tend to be slightly elevated in subsurface soils close to
the mud pits or emergency wastewater impoundments; however, most parameters
will not migrate any significant distance away from the disposal/temporary storage
facilities. Na, Cl was the only ions to show definite vertical migration through
subsurface soils, specific conductance was used as the characteristic of zones with
elevated ions.
The studies further revealed that amendment of drilling mud with subsurface soils
also increases its water holding capacity and cation exchange capacity. Thus, drilling
mud could benefit vegetative production. This could be attributed to the fact that the
drilling mud are by design impermeable suspensions of clays which form an even
more impermeable contact surface between the mud and native soils.

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As a result of these characteristics, the potential for leaching of constituents from
mud pits is hypothetically negligible. In mud pits migration of constituent will be
dominated by surface runoff rather than by percolation of precipitation downward
through the relatively impermeable drilling mud clays.

4.5 Impact on Water Environment

Drilling fluid or mud is basically a mixture of water, clay, polymers and weighting
material with all individual components being environmentally friendly. This mud will
be reused as much as possible. The mud circulation is a closed loop with the return
mud going back to the mud tanks. At the end of drilling operations, the residual
(unusable) mud is discharged in to the waste pit. In order to estimate the effects of
surface water runoff/ overflow of waste from the storage pits on aquatic ecosystems,
short-term bioassay studies were carried out. The effects of toxic substances on fish
food organisms are vital factors in determining whether fish can flourish or survive in
polluted water, as in many cases the lower organisms upon which fish depend are
even more susceptible to a poison than are the fish themselves. In order to predict
the impacts, bioassay tests were conducted on algae (Scenedesmus), Zooplankton
(Daphnia and Cypris) and fish (Lebistes reticulatus) on laboratory scale.
Pure culture of the organisms was used for the test and they were exposed
separately at various dilutions of the waste. The result indicated that the waste was
not toxic to algae. The growth of algae was stimulated in 30% within a period of 5
days.
Among other organisms tested, the fish and Daphnia were the most resistant and
susceptible to the waste. At 100% waste only 20% fish died in 48 hours. Life cycle
test with the juveniles (less than 24 hrs) of Daphnia was conducted through two
generations at two nutrient fortified concentrations (50% & 80%) of waste in
laboratory (31°-32°C) for 12 days. Only one juvenile was added at each
concentration and control on zero day. Daphnia got matured and released 6
offspring (neonates) asexually at each toxicant level and control in fifth day. The
parent Daphnia at 80% waste died on fifth day. However, in second generation 12%
more and 33% less neonates were recorded at 50% and 80% waste respectively on

106
twelve day. It was thus concluded that the waste at 50% dilution did not impair the
growth of Daphnia.
Algal bioassay of mixed algal species showed that green and blue green algal
species are much more resistant to drilling pit waste and water soluble fractions of
crude oil, while diatoms and desmids are highly susceptible to these wastes. When
exposed to these wastes phytoplankton community is dominated by green and blue-
green algae only.
These studies indicate that the phytoplankton community structure would change if
surface run off of waste fluids present in waste pits mixes with surface water. Since,
lined pits will be used for solar evaporating the drilling mud, the chance of run off are
very less.

4.6 Impact on Biological Environment

4.6.1 Terrestrial Environment
Prediction of Impact on Biological Environment due to any developmental activity is
practically difficult because:
• Living subjects has a natural variation in numbers; changes in numbers cannot
always be directly attributed to changes in the environment.
• Most of the impacts on the living system or ecosystem take long time period to
become fully visible externally.
The natural vegetation in the study area is not considerable. Crops are grown in
small portion of the study area and due to increased air pollution; some reduction in
crop- yield is anticipated. However, with the construction of green belt and with the
implementation EMP, restoration in crop-production is anticipated.
As regards species diversity, it is not significant due to very limited number of
species present. No significant changes are anticipated due to drilling operations;
however, due to EMP the conditions are expected to be improved because of green
belt development. There are no rare and endangered plant and animal species in the
study area and hence no changes are anticipated.
Vegetation in the vicinity of the drilling sites will not get affected by proposed drilling
because of marginal change in ambient air quality. Re-establishment of crops by
natural means is expected to adequately mitigate the impact due to emissions of
pollutants.

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4.6.2 Aquatic Environment
There are no rare and endangered aquatic species and hence no change will occur.
The characteristics of the water bodies may not change significantly with and without
EMP.

4.7 Impact on Socio-Economic Environment

Critically analyzing the existing status of socio-economic profile vis-à-vis its scenario
with proposed project, the impacts of the project would be of varying nature. The
predicted impacts are as follows:
• The proposed activities would generate indirect employment in the region like
workers will be required in site preparation and drilling activities, supply of raw
material, auxiliary and ancillary works which will marginally improve the economic
status of people
• The commissioning of project would lead to improvement in transport facilities as
loose or soft surface rural roads and trails will be upgraded to facilitate movement of
the drilling rig and supply vehicles.
• In the event of commercial quantities of gas are discovered, more long term
employment opportunities would be created and gas production would increase
availability of gas to various industries in this region.
The impact on community health due to the proposed drilling activities is negligible
but the social status will improve due to increase in employment opportunities. There
will be positive impact on sanitation, transportation, communication and community
health in the region. There may be occupational hazards due to proposed activities
but these hazards will reduce through implementation of precautionary measures
suggested in EMP.
Positive Impacts
• High percentage of respondents have favorable ranking about the proposed
exploratory drilling project
• Proposed project would help to fulfill the Oil and Gas demand in the industrial
sector of the region which will ultimately improve the backwardness of the region

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• Increase in job opportunities operational phase for the qualified and skilled as well
as unqualified and unskilled people in the study area will have distinctive impact on
the socio-economic development of the region
• Enhanced infrastructure facilities, better employment opportunities the overall
quality of life of the people will be upgraded
• Development in housing, medical facilities, market, education, power supply,
transport and cultural in the study area
• The proposed project is expected to contribute to improvement of quality of life in
the region (Tables 4.4-4.5).

4.8 Impact on Aesthetics

The proposed well sites will be nearly restored to their former land use on
abandonment such that no impacts to local aesthetics will occur. For any wells
eventually put into production there would be minor facilities placed at wellhead. The
other aesthetic parameters will show marginal effects.
4.9 Mitigation Measures

• All equipment will be operated within specified design parameters during

construction and operational phases. This can be achieved by minimizing the
duration of testing through careful planning and using high combustion efficiency,
smokeless flare/ burners
• While deploying major noise generating equipment such as diesel generators etc.
they will be checked that all mufflers are in good working order and that the
manufacturers have taken the normal measures for minimizing the noise levels •
Noise barriers/shields in the form of well berm should be provided around the units
wherever possible • Use of ear muffs/plugs and other protective devices should be
provided to the workforce in noise prone areas • Wherever generator noise occurs in
proximity to human settlements, sound deadening barriers must be provided • The
effluents (wastewater) generated during drilling operations are recommended to be
collected in lined waste pits to avoid groundwater contamination • The additional
manpower requirement for drilling activities will increase employment opportunities
for the local population, thus improving their social status

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 Table 4.1: Noise Exposure Levels for Drilling Rigs

Mech. Rig Elect. Rig (dBA)

Occupational Exposure

Leq (12 hrs) (on the derrick) 83 71

Leq (12 hrs) (within the premises) 72 60

Human Settlement Exposure

Leq (24 hrs) (villages 1 km away) 44 37

Ldn (village 1 km away) 46 39

Table 4.2 : Characteristics of Typical Solid Wastes Produced at the Drill Site

(Dry Weight Basis)

Parameters Drill Cuttings Sludge in waste pit

(2-3 m depth)

Moisture (%) 2-10 70.0

pH 7.2 8.0

Loss on ignition 19.2 9.0

Total nitrogen (%) 0.05 0.1

Total phosphorus (%) 0.10 0.03

Manganese (mg/kg) 320.0 224.0

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Copper (mg/kg) 90.0 34.0

Lead (mg/kg) 8.0 15.0

Nickel ( mg/kg) 70.0 36.0

Zinc (mg/kg) 45.0 37.0

Iron (%) 1.52 0.92

Table 4.3: Prediction of Qualitative Impacts on Socio-economic Environment

Parameter Local Regional Direct Indirect

Employment + ● + +

Income + ● + +

Transport + ● + +

Education + ● + +

Medical facilities + ● + -

Communication + ● + +

Sanitation + ● + ● Housing
+ ● + +

Agriculture + ● ● -

Cost of living + ● + +

Environmental Pollution - ● ● -

Recreation + + ● +

+ : Positive Impact - : Negative Impact ●: Insignificant

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 Table 4.4: Expected Change in Subjective Quality of Life

S. No. Villages QoL (s) QoL (s) after EMP

Existing welfare measure

1 Khelia 0.55 0.62

2 Arkali 0.43 0.52

3 Panpur 0.47 0.53

4 Banamalipara 0.49 0.54

5 Sutra 0.45 0.50

6 Birnagar 0.44 0.48

7 Jaiku 0.48 0.51

8 Bagdiya 0.50 0.53

Average 0.476 0.528

Qol (s): Subjective quality of Life

Table 4.5: Expected Change in Cumulative Quality of LIfe

S. No. Villages QoL (s) QoL (s) after EMP

Existing welfare measure

1 Khelia 0.58 0.65

2 Arkali 0.45 0.54

3 Panpur 0.48 0.56

4 Banamalipara 0.51 0.56

5 Sutra 0.47 0.54

6 Birnagar 0.48 0.53

7 Jaiku 0.52 0.55

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 8 Bagdiya 0.54 0.57

Average 0.503 0.562

Qol (s): Cumulative quality of Life

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 CHAPTER – 5
ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN

5.1 Environmental Management Plan

The EIA for the proposed exploratory drilling program has identified a number of
impacts that are likely to arise during the site preparation, well testing and
demobilization. The EIA has examined biophysical and socio-economic effects of the
proposed activity from site clearance and preparation of the site and testing through
to abandonment, demobilization and restoration. On evaluation of environmental
impact, it is observed that the real benefits of proposed activity can result only if the
risks of pollution are minimized. This can be accomplished through implementation
of adequate preventive and control measures.
Where adverse impacts have been identified, the EIA has examined the extent to
which these impacts would be mitigated through the adoption of industry standard
practice and guidelines and following local legislative requirements. The
Environmental Management Plan (EMP) describes both generic good practice
measures and site specific measures, the implementation of which is aimed at
mitigating potential impacts associated with the exploratory drilling activity.
The EMP provides a delivery mechanism to address potential adverse impacts, to
instruct consultant and to introduce standards of good practice to be adopted for all
project work. The EMP can be developed into a standalone document covering each
stage of the exploratory drilling activity.
For each stage of the activity, the EMP lists all the requirements to ensure effective
mitigation of every potential biophysical and socio-economic impact identified in the
EIA. For each action, or operation, which could otherwise give rise to impact, the
following information is presented:
• A comprehensive listing of the mitigation measures
• The parameters that will be monitored to ensure effective implementation of the
action

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• The timing for implementation of the action to ensure that the objectives of
mitigation are fully met.
The EMP comprises a series of components covering direct mitigation and
environmental monitoring, an outline waste management plan and restoration plan.
ONGC is committed to the adoption of these measures and will carry out on going
inspection to ensure their implementation and effectiveness by its consultant.
The exploratory drilling program has been designed to avoid or minimize impacts to
the environment. Where residual impacts remain, which may have moderate or
significant impacts on the environment, mitigation measures have been prescribed in
this EIA, which will either reduce the impact to an acceptable level or adequately
offset it.
Based on the impacts identified, a conceptual Environmental Management Plan
(EMP) is recommended as below.

5.2 General Recommendations

The present practices for mitigation of adverse impacts and technology options that
can be considered to reduce the risks of land & water pollution.

5.2.1 Drilling Fluids

Drilling fluids mostly water based mud will be used in exploratory drilling to
maintain hydrostatic pressure control in the well and to lubricate the drill bit.
(A) Regulations
• The toxicity of chemical additives used in the drilling fluids (WBM) would be
biodegradable (mainly organic constituents) and will have toxicity of 96 hr LC50
value > 30,000 mg/l.
• Hexavalent chromium compound will not be used in drilling fluids. Alternate
chemicals in place of chrome lignosulfonate will be used in drilling fluids. In case,
chrome compound is used, the drilling fluids and drill cuttings will not be disposed off
without proper treatment.
• WBM will be recycled to a maximum extent.

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5.2.2 Drill Cuttings

• Drill Cuttings (DC) originating from on-shore will be separated from Water Base
Mud (WBM) washed properly and unusable drilling fluids (DF) may be disposed off in
a well-designed lined pit with impervious liner. The disposal pit will be provided with
a leachate collection system
• Design aspects of the impervious waste disposal pit; capping of disposal pit will be
informed by the oil industry to State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) at the time of
obtaining consent.
• In case of any problem due to geological formation for drilling, low toxicity OBM
having aromatic content < 1% will be used. If the operators intend to use such OBM
to mitigate specific whole problem/ SBM it will be intimated to Ministry of
Environment and Forests/State Pollution Control Board
• The waste pit after it is filled up shall be covered with impervious liner, over which,
a thick layer of native soil with proper top slope is provided
• Drilling wastewater including DC wash water will be collected in the disposal pit
evaporated or treated and will comply with the notified standards for onshore
disposal
• Total material acquired for preparation of drill site will be nearly restored after
completion of drilling operation leaving no waste material at site. WBPCB should be
informed about the restoration work
.
5.3 Environment Management Plan
5.3.1 Air Environment

All equipment, including DG Sets will be operated within specified design parameters
during construction, drilling and operational phases. Well testing (flaring) will be
undertaken so as to minimize impacts of emissions. This can be achieved by
minimizing the duration of testing through careful planning.

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5.3.2 Noise Environment

While procuring major noise generating equipment such as diesel generators etc. it
will be checked that all mufflers are in good working order and that the
manufacturers have taken the normal measures for minimizing the noise levels.
Use of ear muffs/plugs and other protective devices will be provided to the workforce
in noise prone areas. Enclosures around noise sources will be provided depending
on the size of the unit.

5.3.3 Land Environment

Soils in the region have moderate infiltration rates amenable to groundwater

pollution. Precaution would be taken to avoid spillages of chemicals on soils to avoid
further deterioration of groundwater quality and danger to soil microbial populations
in soils which are sensitive to hydrocarbon. Treated solid wastes, which have to be
disposed on land, will be made on adequately prepared HDPE lined waste pits.

5.3.4 Water Environment

Wastewater generated during drilling operations would be around 1.5-3 m3/day.

Wastewater characteristics would be of varied nature and likely to contain soil
particulate matter along with organics. The treatment scheme comprises of
equalization, chemical coagulation, flocculation and clarification by settling and the
treated wastewater will be disposed in waste pit. The effluents generated during
drilling operations will be collected in lined waste. This will eliminate any possibility of
wastewater spills from waste pits to surrounding areas.

5.3.5 Biological Environment

In order to avoid adverse environmental impacts the discharge of the gaseous, liquid
and particulate waste into the atmosphere will be minimized. Destruction of natural
habitat of animals will be minimal.

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5.3.6 Socio-economic Environment

In order to mitigate the adverse impacts on social and economic aspects, due to the
project, it is necessary to formulate certain EMP measures for the smooth
functioning and commissioning of the project. The suggested measures are given
below:
• Preference shall be given for employment of the local people during construction
phase which will secure the economic life of the unemployed population on
temporary basis
• Communication with the local community will be institutionalized & done on need
basis by the project authorities to provide as opportunity for mutual discussion
• Create various awareness campaigns in the community, specially related to basic
health, hygiene and sanitation
• Protection of persons against dust emissions during construction and transportation
activities
• Welfare measures will be decided and planned according to the priority and need of
the community during development phase
• It will be ensured that the houses near to drill sites do not get affected.
• Environmental Awareness programs will be organized to bring forth the
environmental management measures being undertaken & the beneficial aspects of
the proposed project for improving their quality of life.

5.4 Waste Management Plan

The Waste Management Plan (WMP) covers disposal of all wastes with further
reference to disposal of those waste.
The objectives of the WMP are:
• To provide the necessary guidance for the reduction and appropriate management
of wastes generated on drilling site
• To comply with all current Indian environmental regulations
• To meet industry standards on waste management and control
• To prevent occurrence of any environmental degradation within the locality due to
waste handling

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 Mobile ETP will be used in the rig. Solids waste will be washed and used for road
fill up.

5.4.1 Disposal Options

The following disposal options will be available on site. However, it will be necessary
to evaluate the suitability of various waste specific technologies for the site and
select an option that will cause minimum environmental impact on the surrounding:
• Landfill: Non-hazardous inert drill cuttings and waste residual mud shall be
disposed of by spreading, drying and covering as per Landfill guidelines (Waste mud
and drill cuttings disposal plan)
• Offsite Disposal: Wastes which cannot be handled at the drilling site will be
removed to a designated offsite and suitably disposed for reuse/recycling/ municipal
disposal
• Produced Hydrocarbon Flaring: Hydrocarbons produced during well testing will
be flared via a conventional burner system
• Sewage Disposal: A sewage disposal system will be established in the campsite
during the drilling operation. Being a temporary activity the sewage should be
diverted to soak pit.
• Spent Oil and Loose: The used/burnt oil will be sold either by auction or by direct
Sale or by any other mode only to the Re-refiners registered with the Directorate of
Industries of the State Government/Union territory Administrations. The treated liquid
waste may be used for agriculture purposes. The details regarding waste
classification and their disposal options are described in Table 5.1.

5.5 Waste Mud & Drill Cuttings Disposal Plan

The section details recommendations and proposals for isolations, containment and
disposal of drilling mud and drill solids from the exploratory program. The strategy
recommended provides for maximum protection of the environment from any
potential adverse impact of the drilling fluid and cuttings.

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5.5.1 Waste Generation at Drill Site

Drill Mud
Drill fluid or mud is basically a mixture of water, clay polymers and weighting material
with all individual components being environmentally friendly. The mud system will
be a closed loop. The mud will be re-circulated and mainly retained in the well. A
small quantity of residual unusable portions of mud retained in the mud tanks will be
disposed off at the end of drilling operations. The mud being inert material of
bentonite and barite will be filled in lined pits and dried. The dried mud will be
covered with excavated earth and native top soil.
Drill Cuttings
It is planned to deposit the cuttings generated in the waste pit where they will be
allowed to dry and finally they will be covered with topsoil.

5.6 Environment Protection and Reclamation Plan

• Construction activities will be coordinated in consultation with landowners to reduce
interference with agricultural activities.
• Topsoil will be stripped to color change or to plough depth and will be stored on the
site. The depth of stripping will be on the basis of site specific soil survey.
• If required for rig stabilization the well site will be temporarily padded with granular
fill.
• The drill site would be provided with sufficient sanitary facilities.
• Combustible wastes generated would be burnt in a controlled manner or disposed
of in an approved dump site.
• Hazardous materials such as petroleum, spirit, diesel lubrication oil and paint
materials required at the site during construction activities would be stored as per
safety norms.
• To ensure that the local inhabitants are not exposed to the hazards of construction
and the site would be secured with manned entry posts.
• It would be ensured that both gasoline and diesel powered construction vehicles
are properly maintained. The vehicle maintenance area would be so located that the
contamination of surface/soil/water by accidental spillage of oil/diesel will not take
place and dumping of waste oil will be strictly prohibited.

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• No Construction material debris will be left on site.

5.7 Occupational Health Hazards

Occupational health hazards identified during drilling operation are given below:
 Chemical Hazards
 Noise Hazards
 Radiation Hazards
 Illumination Hazards
 Vibration Hazards
 Temperature Extremes
 Biological Hazards
 Ergonomic Hazards
 Stress related Hazards

Health Hazard Control is done by adopting following measures:

 Prioritize the health hazards based on their risk potential.

 Identify specific work groups affected by each hazard.
 Determine the controls required to manage these identified hazards. The cost of
each identified control versus benefits of its implementation may be evaluated.

 Develop an action plan identifying work to be done

The health and hygiene of the personnel working at the Drilling Rig will be monitored
through periodic health checks of the persons. All employees undergo a periodic
medical examination. The record of the health checkup will be maintained centrally
off site in confidential file by the medical section. The medical officer at base
recommends appropriate treatment for the persons found to be having any health
problems requiring attention.

During the proposed drilling operations, inspections of cleanliness are carried out.
First aid boxes are provided at different strategic locations on the drilling rig. The
medical officer on board shall regularly inspect the first boxes and ensures that their

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contents are in order. Majority of the employees on the drilling rig are trained in first
aid. Regular drills and lectures on first aid are carried out at the rig. Occupational
Health Surveillance Program is summarized in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1: Occupational Health hazards and mitigating measures

Cause of health hazard Risk Mitigation Measures

Noise (Generators, Cranes, Hearing loss Use of PPEs in high noise

Fire, Water pump, Hot oil area and written
pumps, Crude dispatch pumps) operational procedures to
be followed.
Handling of heavy equipment Back problem
and material (Manual handling Procedures to be followed

of material) as per MSDS of all

hazardous chemicals for
Handling of chemicals Eye problems and safe handling.
(Chemical stores, Chemical chemical ingestion,
dosing areas, Chemical labs) Dermal effect of
chemicals

Periodic Medical Examination Policy

Periodic Medical Examination (PME) is applicable to all regular employees. PME is

carried out at regular intervals depending on the nature and extent of the risk
involved, after the initial pre-employment health examination as follow:

Table 5.2 Medical Examination Policy

Type of PME Employees to be covered Periodicity

General Employees up to 45 years age 5 years

Employees in age group of 46 to 55 3 years

years.

Employees in age group of 56 years and 2 years

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 above.

Specific Employees having hazard based profiles As per

requirement

Random On need basis- Up to 10 % of employees Every year

examined.

5.8 Plans for Well Site Operation and/or Abandonment

• The site will be fenced in the event the well is successful. The well site will be
reduced to approximately 30 m x 30 m for the production phase and all non-essential
areas will be fully reclaimed.

• If the well becomes operational the site will be monitored and kept in a weed free
state. Weed control will be achieved through either mechanical control or strategic
and responsible application of an appropriate herbicide.

• In the event the well is unsuccessful the well bore will be cement plugged

• On abandonment newly constructed access will be fully reclaimed unless

specifically requested to do otherwise by the landowner.

5.9 Drilling Program Safety Guidelines

All API, Indian Petroleum Act and Indian Mines Act will be strictly adhered to. Drilling
Contractor‟s safety guidelines shall be strictly adhered to as well as all Personnel
Safety Guidelines.
The well site supervisor shall carry out regular safety checks. All crew members
would be reminded frequently of working in a safe manner. Should unsafe equipment
or procedures are observed, operations would cease immediately and the hazard
duly would be corrected.

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However Periodic Medical Examination (PME) of the regular employees is being
carried out and it will be ensured that contractual laborers should also undergo for
PME through the contractor.
The well site supervisor would ensure that the Driller and above should have a valid
“Well Control Certification”. Driller and above would have sound knowledge of the
API specification relevant to Well Control Practices (API RP53 and those prescribed
in it) and practice the same in all aspects of the job (Table 5.3).

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Table 5.3

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 CHAPTER – 6
RISK ASSESSMENT STUDY

6.1 Introduction

Accidental risk involves the occurrence or potential occurrence of some accident

consisting of an event or sequence of events resulting into fire, explosion or toxic
hazards to human health and environment.

Risk Assessment (RA) provides a numerical measure of the risk that a particular
facility poses to the public. It begins with the identification of probable potential
hazardous events at an industry and categorization as per the predetermined
criteria. The consequences of major credible events are calculated for different
combinations of weather conditions to simulate worst possible scenario. These
consequence predictions are combined to provide numerical measures of the risk for
the entire facility.

6.1.1 Objectives

Following are the objectives of Risk Assessment studies:

 Generation of release scenarios for proposed exploratory drilling

 Estimation of damage distances for the accidental release of hazardous
chemicals based on different scenarios
 Suggestion of risk mitigation measures for well blow out scenarios, diesel
storage, mud system and falling objects
 Approach to Disaster Management Plan

6.1.2 Scope of Work

The scope of this study is to carry out risk assessment for drilling of
exploratory wells in the West Bengal Onshore Block WB-ONN-2005/3. Standard
industry practices of risk assessment are considered in the study.

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The hazard potential of various fuels/chemicals and estimation of consequences in
case of accidental release are the issues of immediate relevance to be considered. It
is therefore, imperative to carry out Maximum Credible Accident (MCA) analysis at
the first stage, which identifies vulnerable areas of the facility and suggests a set of
recommendations for improved safety.

The work undertaken consists of the following stages:

 Collection of relevant data on project description and proposed activities.

 Damage distance computations

MCA analysis is carried out to arrive at the hazard distance for the worst case
scenario. The consequences of all the scenarios are computed and hazard
distances are worked out and listed for flammable materials and possible explosion
effects. Risk mitigation measures, based on MCA analysis and engineering
judgments are suggested in order to improve overall system safety.

Suggestions for risk mitigation measures and delineation of approach to Disaster

Management Plan (DMP) for minimizing the risks which are of concern and can be
practically implemented are documented. International standard operation practices
and Indian regulatory requirements are considered while giving suggestions /
recommendations.

6.2 Maximum Credible Accident (MCA) Analysis

MCA stands for Maximum Credible Accident or in other words, an accident with
maximum damage distance, which is believed to be probable. MCA analysis does
not include quantification of the probability of occurrence of an accident. In practice,
the selection of accident scenarios for MCA analysis is carried out on the basis of
hazards and past accident analysis.

Risk involves the potential occurrence of some accident consisting of an event or

sequence of events. A disastrous situation is the outcome of fire or explosion or toxic
hazards in addition to other natural causes that eventually need to loss of life,

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property and ecological balances. Depending on the effective hazardous attributes
and their impacts, the maximum effect to the surrounding could be assessed.

The MCA analysis involves ordering and ranking various sections in terms of
potential vulnerability. The data requirements for MCA analysis are:

 Operation procedures
 Detailed design parameters
 Physical and chemical properties data
 Detailed information about onshore wells, terminal facilities platform.
 Past accident data
Following steps are involved in the general MCA analysis:

 Identification of potential hazardous sections

 Visualisation of release scenarios with recourse to consequence analysis
 Damage distance computations for the released cases

6.3 Past Accident Data Analysis

Analysis of events arising out of the unsafe conditions is one of the basic
requirements for ensuring safety in any facility. The data required for such an
analysis has either to be generated by monitoring and/or collected from the records
of the past occurrences. This data, when analyzed, helps in formulation of the steps
towards mitigation of hazards faced commonly. Trends in safety of various activities
can be evaluated and actions can be planned accordingly, to improve the safety.

Data analysis helps in correlating the causal factors and the corrective steps to be
taken for controlling the accidents. It is, therefore, of vital importance to collect the
data methodically, based on potential incidents, sections involved, causes of failure
and the preventive measures taken. This helps to face future eventualities with more
preparedness.

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6.4 Consequence Analysis

Quantification of the damage can be done by means of various models, which can
then be translated in terms of injuries and damage to the exposed population and
buildings.

Gas may be released and result into jet fire and less likely unconfined vapor cloud
explosion causing possible damage to the surrounding areas. The extent of the
damage depends upon the nature of the release. The release of flammable material
and subsequent ignition results in heat radiation, pressure wave or vapor cloud
depending upon the flammability and its physical state. Table 6.1 depicts the
metrological conditions considered for consequence analysis.

It is important to visualize the consequence of the release of such substances and

the damage caused to the surrounding areas. An insight into physical effects
resulting from the release of hazardous substances can be had by means of various
models.

Vulnerability models can also be used to translate the physical effects occurring in
terms of injuries and damage to exposed population and buildings.

6.4.1 Factors influencing the use of Physical Effect Models

In order to calculate the physical effects of accidental releases of hazardous

substances, following steps must be carried out in succession:

 Determining the form in which the hazardous substances occur e.g. gas, gas
condensed to liquid or as a liquid in equilibrium with vapour
 Determination of the way in which the release takes place; for example
intermittent or continuous release
 Determination of the outflow volume (as a function of time) of the gas, vapour or
liquid. In the event of liquid outflow, possible two-phase outflow and the
determination of the evaporation from any pool of liquid formed
 Dispersion of the released gas or vapour which has formed into the atmosphere
 In case of flammable substances, the heat radiation is computed for the following
scenarios:

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 o Torch, if vapours are ignited
o Pool fire, if pool of liquid is ignited
o Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion (BLEVE) which is a physical
explosion

In the distribution model, account is taken of the atmospheric stability, the so called
Pasquill classes (A to F), as given in Table 6.2, and a wind velocity. The model is
based on a point source. In practice, however, a point source will never exist; for
example, a surface source in case of pools. Further, account should be taken of the
nature of the release. For example, vapor may be released in a continuous manner
in the form of a jet.

6.5 Scenario Identification

6.5.1 Release from Well

Release of well fluid can cause hazard to the environment. The extent of the
hazard is dependent upon the nature of the release and the physical state of the
material. Figure 6.1 provides a flowchart that can be followed to evaluate the
consequences of a release of a hazardous chemical. The chart in the figure is
general in nature and as such, not all of the branches events in the chart may be
applicable to well fluid. However, it provides a useful guide to the steps involved in
scenario generation.

The quantification of the damage can be done by means of various models,

which can then be translated in terms of injuries and hazard to exposed population
and buildings. The release of flammable materials and their subsequent ignition
results in heat radiation, pressure wave or vapor cloud explosions depending upon
the flammability and physical state arising after the

release. An insight into physical effects resulting from the release of hazardous
substances can be seen by means of various models. Vulnerability models are used
to translate the physical effects occurring in terms of injuries and damage to exposed
population and buildings.

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6.5.2 Failure Case Listing

The hazards posed by the oil and gas wells are the same as those possessed by
any gas well carrying high methane content in natural gas. Historical evidence
demonstrates that, although unlikely, the most significant hazard arises from the
thermal radiation produced by an ignited gas release. Releases from the wells could
arise in the form of blow out. Partial and full rupture in case for diesel storage has
also been considered as failure case in the study.

6.5.3 Models for the Calculation of Heat Loads

If a flammable gas or liquid is released, damage resulting from heat radiation may
occur on ignition. The models used in this study for the effects in the event of
immediate ignition (torch and pool fire) will be discussed in succession. These
models calculate the heat radiation as a function of the distance from the torch or the
ignited pool as given in Table 6.3. Types of damages at various heat loads are given
in Table 6.4.

6.5.4 Burning Torch (Flare)

If a release of a gas is ignited then a stable, diffusion torch or jet fire may be
produced. This study uses a model with which the length of torch and the thermal
load for the surrounding area can be calculated. For the flammable gas, in this
model, an ellipse is assumed for the shape of a torch. The volume of the (torch) flare
in this model is related to the outflow. Humidity in air has a relatively high heat-
absorbing capacity.

In order to calculate the thermal load, the center of the flare is regarded as a point
source. This center is taken as being half a flare-length from the point of outflow.

6.6 Injuries to Human Population

6.6.1 Vulnerability Models

Vulnerability models are used in order to determine how people are injured by
exposure to a heat load. Such models are designed on the basis of animal
experiments or on the basis of the analysis of injuries resulting from accidents, which

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have occurred. Vulnerability models often make use of a probit function. In a probit
function, a link is made between the load and percentage of the people exposed to a
particular type of injury. It is represented as follows:

Pr = k1 + k2 ln (V)

In which,

Pr = Probit function; the measure of the percentage of people exposed to a

particular injury

K1 = a constant depending on the type of injury and type of load

K2 = a constant depending on the type of load

V= load

The response percentage is plotted on the left and the probit linearly on the
right; the S-shaped curve belongs to the left-hand axis and the straight line to the
right-hand axis.

In the following sections, vulnerability models are given for heat radiation
making use of probit functions.

6.6.2 Health Injuries Resulting from Flammable Liquids and Gases

In case of flammable gases or liquids, on immediate ignition, a jet fire or pool fire will
occur. The injuries in this case are mainly caused by heat radiation. If the gas is not
ignited immediately, it will disperse into the atmosphere. Explosive combustion will
only occur if the cloud is enclosed to some extent between buildings and obstacles.

6.7 Results and Discussions

Accidental scenarios visualized for the consequence analysis of the wells

considering operating pressures greater than atmospheric are jet fire for well blowout
scenario. Scenarios have been generated by using DNV based PHAST 6.51
software.

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Well Blowout

The release of well fluid due to well blowout can lead to a jet fire if the released gas
ignites immediately since the operating pressure is very high. Length of jet flame and
heat load generated by the flame depends upon the mass flow rate of released
material.

The damage distances due to well blowout at heat load of 4 kW/m² are 335.2 m,
358.2 m and 376.2 m for stability class 2F, 3D and 5D respectively. Similarly, the
damage distances for other heat radiations levels are also computed as shown in
Table 6.5.

Pool Fire

This scenario was visualized by considering leak sizes of 10 mm, 25 mm and 50 mm

and catastrophic rupture of Fuel Storage Tank at various heat radiation levels under
the different atmospheric stability classes and wind velocities. The damage distances
due to 50 mm leak for stability class 2F are 9.25 m, 20.47m, and 33.19 m at heat
load of 37.5 kW/m², 12.5 kW/m² and 4.0 kW/m² conditions respectively. The
computed damage distances for Fuel Storage Tank for 10 mm, 25 mm and 50 mm
leak sizes and catastrophic rupture at heat loads of 37.5 KW/m², 12.5 KW/m² and 4.0
kW/m² is given in Table 6.6.

6.8 Risk Mitigation Measures

Risk involves the occurrence of an accident arising out of an event or sequence of

events. The impact zones in case of such accidents are computed through Maximum
Credible Accident (MCA) Analysis. Based on consequence analysis mitigation
measures are recommended which can either prevent an event from occurring or
reduce the consequences, if the event occurs.

A number of recommendations are made regarding measures that should be taken

to reduce the risks of any hazardous event occurring or, if it did, of mitigating the
hazards arising. The following risk mitigation measures at various locations are
suggested

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6.8.1 Drilling Operations

A majority of accidents occur during drilling operation on the drill floor and may be
associated with moving heavy tubular, which may strike or crush personnel. Falling
and crushing make up maximum occupational risk of fatality due to striking of
objects. Mechanical pipe handling, minimizing the requirement of personnel on the
drill floor exposed to high level of risk, may be an effective way of reducing injuries
and deaths. Good safety management, strict adherence to safety management
procedures and competency assurance will reduce the risk. Some of the areas in
drilling operations where safety practices are needed to carry out jobs safely &
without causing any injury to self, colleagues and system are:

Maintenance of Mud Weight

It is very crucial for the safety of drilling well. Drilling Mud Engineer should check the
ingoing and out coming mud weight at the drilling well, at regular intervals. If mud
weight is found to be less, barytes should be added to the circulating mud, to raise it
to the desired level. Failure to detect this decrease in level may lead to well kick &
furthermore, a well blow out, which can cause loss of equipment & injury to or death
of the operating personnel.

Monitoring of Active Mud Tank Level

Increase in active tank level indicates partial or total loss of fluid to the well bore.
This can lead to well kick. If any increase or decrease in tank level is detected, shift
personnel should immediately inform the Shift Drilling Engineer & take necessary
actions as directed by him.

Monitoring of Hole Fill-up / Return Mud Volume During Tripping

During swabbing or pulling out of string from the well bore, the hole is filled
with mud for metallic displacement. When this string runs back, the mud returns back
to the pit. Both these hole fill up & return mud volumes should be monitored, as they
indicate any mud loss or inflow from well bore, which may lead to well kick.

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Monitoring of Inflow

Any inflow from the well bore during tripping or connection time may lead to
well kick. So, it is needed to keep watch on the flow nipple during tripping or
connection time.

Monitoring of Background / Trip Gas

Increase in background gas or trip gas indicates insufficient mud weight

against drilled formation. Such indications should be immediately brought to the
notice of the Shift Drilling Engineer.

For total safety of such operations, each team member must religiously
follow the safety aspects pertaining to respective operational area. If every team
member starts working with this attitude, zero accident rates are not a distant dream.

Drilling operation is a team effort and success of such an operation

depends upon the sincerity, efficiency & motivation of all team members. Safety in
such operations is not the duty of a single person, but it is everyone's job.

The use of protective fireproof clothing and escape respirators will reduce
the risk of being seriously burnt. In addition, adequate firefighting facilities and first
aid facilities should be provided, in case of any emergency.

Risk reducing measures include kick simulation training for personnel,

presence of well-trained drillers and mud engineers, and strict adherence to safety
management procedures and good well control procedures.

6.8.2 Wells

 Proper insulating joints should be provided on well head

 Co-ordination with local authorities, such as port, police, fire, ambulance, nearby
industries should be ensured to meet any eventuality
 The well should be physically inspected regularly

Well Blow Out

A blow out, though rare, is the worst accident that can occur in a drilling operation
that is often accompanied by fire and explosion exposing workers to serious danger
to their lives, burns and poisoning. To understand the failure modes resulting to

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formation of kick and subsequent blow outs we have to understand the safety
systems installed for blow out prevention.

Prevention of blow outs rests primarily on control of any kick in the well
bore. A kick means entry of formation fluids into well bore in large enough quantity to
require shutting in the well under pressure. Once a kick is detected, steps can be
taken to control entry of formation fluids into the well bore by over balancing the
expected bottom hole pressure with properly conditioned mud and operation of
safety valves i.e. BOP, whereby the space between the drill pipes and the casings
can be closed and well itself shut off completely. If the early signs of a lick in the well
are ignored, it may lead to a blow out, which is a violent and uncontrolled flow of gas
from a well bore. Several instruments are provided on a drilling rig for detection of
kicks.

Blowout Preventor

Blowout preventer is a large, specialized valve used to seal, control and

monitor oil and gas wells. Blowout preventers were developed to cope with extreme
erratic pressures and uncontrolled flow (formation kick) emanating from a well
reservoir during drilling. Kicks can lead to a potentially catastrophic event known as a
blowout. In addition to controlling the down hole pressure and the flow of oil and gas,
blowout preventers are intended to prevent tubing e.g. drill pipe and well casing,
tools and drilling fluid from being blown out of the wellbore when a blowout
threatens. Blowout preventers are critical to the safety of crew, rig and environment,
and to the monitoring and maintenance of well integrity; thus blowout preventers are
intended to be fail-safe devices.

The blowout preventers are instrumental in reducing the incidence of oil

gushers, blowouts, which are dangerous and costly. Blowout preventers come in a
variety of styles, sizes and pressure ratings. Several individual units serving various
functions are combined to compose a blowout preventer stack. Multiple blowout
preventers of the same type are frequently provided for redundancy, an important
factor in the effectiveness of fail-safe devices.

The primary functions of a blowout preventer system are to:

 Confine well fluid to the wellbore;

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  Provide means to add fluid to the wellbore;
 Allow controlled volumes of fluid to be withdrawn from the wellbore.

Additionally, and in performing those primary functions, blowout preventer systems

are used to:

 Regulate and monitor wellbore pressure;

 Center and hang off the drill string in the wellbore

 Shut in the well (e.g. seal the void, annulus, between drill pipe and casing);

 “Kill” the well (prevent the flow of formation fluid, influx, from the reservoir into
the wellbore) ;

 Seal the wellhead (close off the wellbore);

 Sever the casing or drill pipe (in case of emergencies).

In a well, after the surface casing is in place the following blow-out prevention
equipment is installed and maintained before resuming drilling.

 Annular preventer for closing the well regardless of size / shape of the drill
string in the hole or no string in the hole.
 Double ram preventer, blind ram for closing against open hole as well as pipe
ram for closing against drill pipes.
 Drilling spool located below the double ram preventer. The spool is provided
with choke and kills lines which are connected to the choke and kill manifold.
A non-return valve is provided in the kill line. Arrangements are made for
circulating the kick out.

The blow out preventer, including its pipes and control values is pressure tested.
Standard testing procedure is as below:

 During initial installation and after all subsequent installations, the equipment
are tested to full working pressure. The testing pressure for BOP mentioned in
the Geo Technical Order (GTO) provides necessary guidance. Bag type
preventer are however subjected to only 70% of the working pressure.

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  Before drilling out cement from ant string or casing, the BOP is tested to the
maximum calculated pressure that the casing can be subjected to.

 In case of repairs of BOP involving disconnecting a pressure seal, the BOP is

tested to the working pressure but the bag type preventers is subjected only
to 70% of working pressure.

 The BOP and its pipes and control values is “ function” tested – once in each
trip of blind ram type preventer.

 Once daily in case of pipe ram preventer.

 Once every week in case of annular preventer on drill pipe.

If during test, any blow out prevention equipment is found to be detective, drilling
operation is not resumed until the BOP has been made serviceable.

6.8.3 Preventive measures for spillage and accident due to Storage of

Chemicals

 Fire is one of the major hazards, which can result due to the spillage from
storage tanks. Fire prevention and code enforcement is one of the major
areas of responsibility for the fire service. Hence the site should be equipped
with:

- Water supply

- Fire hydrant and monitor nozzle installation

- Foam system

- Water fog and sprinkler system

- Mobile Firefighting equipment

- First aid appliances

 Storages of chemicals should be designed, fabricated, inspected and

maintained so that there is no release possibility while it is kept within design
conditions.

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  Protective systems of quantified high reliability and availability should be
designed to ensure that these physical conditions are maintained. Impurities
should be controlled to obviate abnormal corrosion.

 These measures should be backed up by relief systems such that the

combination of design, protection, quality control and relief eliminates the
possibility of complete failure. Storages of chemicals should be sited, or given
protective barriers such that they are fully protected from external damage

 Surrounding population should be made aware of the safety precautions to be

taken in the event of any mishap. This can effectively be done by conducting
the training programs

 Safety escape routes should be provided at strategic locations and should be

easily accessible

 Grating and vent panels should be provided to minimize Domino Effects

 Fire extinguishers should be tested periodically and should be always kept in

operational mode

 Shut off and isolation valves should be easily approachable in emergencies

 The fire protection equipment shall be kept in good operating condition at all
time and fire fighting system should be periodically tested for proper
functioning and logged for record and corrective actions

6.8.4 Flow Sensor

 A flow sensor is provided to detect any change in the rate of flow of mud in
the flow line. In case of any sudden increase in the rate of flow, it gives an
automatic alarm at the drillers control panel as also at the geologist's
instrument cabin

6.8.5 Control Panel

There are two control panels for the BOP stack. One of them is on the
derrick floor near the drillers stand, another at the accumulator (Koomy). The
accumulator unit is located outside the safety perimeter. The control panel is

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equipped with pressure and flow indicators and suitable markings for close and open
positions.

6.8.6 Instrumentation in Mud System

Continuous monitoring of condition of mud in the well provides information

useful for well control. The following instruments and equipment are used in the
drilling mud system for this purpose:

 A pit level indicator registering increase or decrease in drilling mud volume. It

is connected with an audio-visual alarm near the drillers control panel.

 A trip with float-marking device to accurately measure the volume of mud

going in to the well. This is useful to keep the well feed with required quantity
of mud at all times.

 A gas detector or explosimeter installed at the primary shale shaker together

with an audio-visual alarm at the drillers control panel to indicate the well
presence of gas-cut mud in the well.

The kick in the well is prevented by keeping the hydrostatic head of the
drilling fluid greater than the formation pressure. The primary control can be lost in
the following situations:

 While tripping, if the well is not kept full with the required volume of mud.

 If there is reduction in hydrostatic pressure in the well due to swabbing, which

may be caused if the drilling string is pulled out too fast or by a balled-up or
clogged bit, which is indicated by insufficient filling of mud.

 If the specific gravity of the drilling fluid is not maintained as per the
requirement.

 If there is loss of circulation, which may be caused either due to running in too
fast, thereby, causing the weak horizons of the well to break or while drilling
through a formation with cracks or cavity.

6.8.7 Risks to Personnel

Good safety management, strict adherence to safety management procedures and

competency assurance will reduce the risk. Safety practices are needed to carry out

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jobs safely and without causing any injury to self, colleagues and system. For total
safety of any operation, each team member must religiously follow the safety
practices / procedures pertaining to respective operational area. If every team
member starts working with this attitude, zero accident rate is not a distant dream.

Any operation is a team effort and its success depends upon the sincerity, efficiency
and motivation of all team members. Safety in such operations is not a duty of a
single person, but it is everyone's job. Use of protective fireproof clothing and escape
respirators will reduce the risk of being seriously burnt. In addition, adequate
firefighting facilities and first aid facilities should be provided, in case of any
emergency.

6.8.8 Precautionary Measures for Falling Objects

Following are the mitigation measures suggested to avoid or minimize risk due to
falling objects

 Provide safety helmets to protect the workers below against falling objects

 Barriers like a toe boards or mesh guards should be provided to prevent items
from slipping or being knocked off the edge of a structure

 Secure objects to the structure like lashing of scaffold boards

 Ensure that there are no loose objects and all tools are properly secured;

 Create an exclusion zone beneath areas where work is taking place.

 Danger areas should be clearly marked with suitable safety signs indicating
that access is restricted to essential personnel wearing hard hats while the
work is in progress.

6.9 Disaster Management Plan (DMP)

Several Government agencies, both at the Central and State levels, are
entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring safety and management of hazardous
chemicals under acts and rules made for the purpose. Despite these measures, the
possibility of accidents cannot be ruled out. In order to face risk of accidents during
drilling operations, a disaster management plan is prepared to mitigate the impact.

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6.9.1 Objectives

The DMP is prepared with the objective that ONGC can respond effectively in a rapid
and systematic manner to any of the technical or natural calamities related incidents
in order to:

 Minimize or eliminate any further danger or risk to individuals

 Minimize or eliminate any further risk to company‟s operations and asserts

 Minimize or eliminate any adverse publicity and to ensure all external inquiries
are handled consistently by a nominated spokes person

 Ensure that all legal aspects of response are considered.

6.9.2 Key Elements

Following are the key elements of Disaster Management Plan:

 Basis of the plan

 Accident / emergency response planning procedures

 Accident Prevention Procedures / Measures for Drilling

 On-site Disaster Management Plan

 Off-site Disaster Management Plan

6.9.3 Basis of the Plan

Identification and assessment of hazards is crucial for on-site emergency planning

and it is therefore necessary to identify what emergencies could arise in
transportation of hydrocarbons. One of the emergencies is due to hazards from
spread of fire or release of flammable chemicals during transportation. Hazard
identification is the basis of the Disaster Management Plan to tackle the unforeseen
events.

Emergency Planning and Response Procedures

Emergency rarely occurs therefore activities during emergencies require

coordination of higher order than for planned activities. To effectively coordinate
emergency response activities, an organizational approach to planning is required.

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The important areas of emergency planning are organization and responsibilities,
procedures, communication, transport, resource requirements and control center.
Offsite emergency requires additional planning over and above those considered
under onsite plans, which should be properly integrated to ensure better
coordination.

The emergency planning includes anticipatory action for emergency, maintenance

and streamlining of emergency preparedness and ability for sudden mobilization of
all forces to meet any calamity.

6.9.4 Accident Prevention Procedures / Measures for Drilling

General

OISD standard 174 gives the codes for well control and standard 189 sets out
engineering requirement for firefighting equipment for drilling rigs. Standard Industry
practice is to be adopted.

A separate plan is provided to deal with the situations, which necessitate emergency
action. The emergency response plan includes details of the organizational response
to emergencies and the safety precautions to be observed in preventing loss of life
and damage to property.

Operation and Maintenance

Oil and Gas industry experiences throughout the world have shown that the main
physical dangers that well faces during operation are mechanical damages caused
by excavation works adjacent to the well. To guard the well against damage, a
system of regular surveillance and inspection to warn of mechanical or corrosion
damage is employed.

Following are the main factors, which determine whether the well will stay free of
significant defects:

 The well Protection against external interference such as caused by nearby

excavations

 Changes in the well environment

 Adequate well markers

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Protecting the Well from External Interference

It is essential to protect the well from being struck or damaged by third parties. The
primary defense against this occurrence will be:

 Liaisons with third parties likely to excavate near the well. ONGC shall
identify, then make them aware of the well and gather advance notifications of
their activities

 Regular Patrolling of the well to monitor third party activities nearby to the
wells.

Fire Prevention Planning and Measures

Fire is one of the major hazards, related to Oil and Natural Gas well. Fire prevention
and code enforcement is the area of responsibility of the fire service. Safe operating
practices reduce the probability of an accidental fire on a platform. Personnel should
understand their duties and responsibilities and be attentive to conditions that might
lead to fire. The following precautions are recommended

 There should be provision for safe handling and storage of dirty rags, trash
and waste oil. Flammable liquids and chemicals spilled on platform should be
immediately cleaned

 Containers of paints and hydrocarbon samples, gas cylinders for welding and
cutting should be stored properly. Gas cylinders should be transported in
hand-carts

 Cutting and welding operations should be conducted in accordance with safe

procedures

 Smoking should be restricted to designated platform areas and “no smoking”

areas should be clearly identified by warning signs

 Platform equipment should be maintained in good operating condition and

kept free from external accumulation of dust and hydrocarbons. Particular
attention should be given to crude oil pump, seals, diesel and gas engines
which could be potential source of ignition in the event of a failure

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The Disaster Management Plan will address the issue of a fire event at any location
on the well and the procedure to be adopted in the very unlikely event of this
occurring. If a fire starts in any well, that section of the well will be isolated by closing
the section (block) valves, as quickly as possible and surrounding facilities will be
cooled with water.

6.9.5 On-site Disaster Management Plan

On-site and off-site Disaster Management Plan can be extended as a contingency

plan for methane explosion. It elaborates emergency procedures in case of fire and
explosion due to accidental release of hazardous chemicals.

Purpose

 To inform people at the site about above happening if it is likely to adversely

affect them

 To inform authorities including helping agencies in advance, and also at the

time of actual happening

 To identify, assess, foresee and work out various kinds of possible hazards,
their places, potential and damaging capacity and area in case of above
happenings.

Activities

 Preparation of a plan showing therein the areas of various hazards like fire,
explosion and toxic releases.

 The fire protection equipment shall be kept in good operating condition at all
time and fire fighting system should be periodically tested for people
functioning logged for record and corrective action

 The fire fighting training shall be provided to all officers and other employees
who are likely to be present in installation

 There should be regular mock fire drills once in a month. Record of such drills
shall be maintained

 Assign key personnel and alternate responsible for safety transportation

 Describe risk associated with transportation facility..

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  Reporting procedure should be followed according to guidelines

 In the event of fire from accidental release of flammable gas or liquid, a

person seeing the incident will follow the laid down procedure in the plant and
report as follows:

o Will dial the nearest telephone

o Will state his name and exact location of emergency

o Will contact concerned officers on duty

o People reporting the accident will remain near the location to guide
emergency crew arriving at the scene

 Report injuries or blood or body fluid exposures to the appropriate supervisor

immediately

 Workers should be seen as soon as possible by a health professional.

6.9.6 Off-site Disaster Management Plan

Emergency is a sudden unexpected event, which can cause serious damage to

personnel life, property and environment as a whole, which necessitate to evolve off-
site emergency plan to combat any such eventuality. Emergencies can be handled
by an organized multidisciplinary approach.

If it becomes necessary to evacuate people, then this can be done in orderly way.
The different agencies involved in evacuation of people are civil administration (both
state and central) and police authorities.

Purpose

 To save lives and injuries and to prevent or reduce property losses

 To provide necessary assistance for quick resumption of normal situation or

operation

 To make explicit inter related set of actions to be undertaken in the event of

an accident posing hazards to the community

 To plan for rescue and recuperation of casualties and injuries. To plan for
relief and rehabilitation

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  To plan for prevention of harms, total loss and recurrence of disaster. It will be
ensured that absolute safety and security is achieved within the shortest time

Following are the activities of the government, Non-Government organizations and

concerned personnel involved in off-site disaster management plan:

 This will include the safety procedure to be followed during an emergency

through posters, talks and mass media in different languages including local
language. Leaflets containing do‟s/ don‟ts should be circulated to educate the
people in vicinity

 Medical Help consisted of doctors and supporting staff for medical help to the
injured persons because of disaster should be formed. Functions and duties
of the committee include, to provide first Said treatment for injured at the spot
or at some convenient place and shift them to nearby hospitals for further
treatment if required

 The police will assist in controlling of the accident site, organizing evacuation
and shifting of injured people to nearby hospitals.

 The fire brigade shall organize to put out fires other than gas fires and provide
assistance as required. Approach roads to accident site and means of escape
should be properly identified. Chief fire officer should co-ordinate entire fire
control measures. Routine training of fire fighting equipment and special
rescue equipment should be carried out. Concerned officer should ensure
adequate supply of fire water and fire fighting agents at the site of emergency.
Maintenance of standby equipment / personnel for fire fighting should be
ready at any given time.

6.10 Oil Spill Response Plan

Spills of oil to land require immediate response action to stop the source of the
discharge and to limit the spread of material. Immediate response actions and
notification procedures shall be developed. Attention must be paid to fire and safety
hazards. For terrestrial areas, selection of appropriate control and containment
techniques is dependent on the:

 Nature of the substrate,

153
  Slope of the terrain,

 Amount of product, and

 Time available to implement the response action.

The quantity and time parameters reflect the reality of constructing a barrier
of appropriate size in the time available. These factors can only be judged in the field
at the time of the incident. Should it be impossible to implement the desired method
at a desired location due to a lack of time or access, a new control point would be
selected further down the slope. If containment is still impossible and human safety
is in question, the threatened area would need to be evacuated.

Spill response strategies would vary significantly attributed by the location

of the spill. Herein the spills have been envisaged in two areas as listed below:

 On-site Spills

 Off-site Spills

The various methodologies that can be adopted for spill control is described below:

6.10.1 Response Strategies – Onsite Spills

In case of spills / leaks of hydrocarbons within the fence line of property

one of the following techniques could be used for the control of spill.

Sorbents and Drip Pans

Sorbent materials, drip pans, and drainage mats are used to isolate and contain
small drips or leaks until the source of the leak is repaired. Material handling
equipment, such as valves and pumps, often have small leaks and are applications
for using sorbents, drip pans, or drainage mats. Although sorbents are usually used
to control small isolated spills, they can also be used to contain and collect large-
volume spills before they reach a watercourse. Sorbents include clay, vermiculite,
diatomaceous earth, and man-made materials.

Drip pans are widely used to contain small leaks from product dispensing
containers (usually drums), uncoupling of hoses during bulk transfer operations, and
for pumps, valves, and fittings. Drip pans are typically 5 to 15 gallons and may be

154
plastic or metal, depending upon the type of chemical handled. They may be single
pans for individual dispensing drums or gutter-type continuous pans built into
multiple drum dispensing racks. Drip pans must be checked regularly and emptied
when necessary so an overflow spill does not occur.

Drainage mats are sometimes used to prevent spilled product from entering
into an uncontrolled drainage or sanitary sewer system. The mat is placed over a
storm drain, sealing the drain against the entry of spilled material. Drainage mats are
especially applicable in areas where constructing a secondary containment or
diversion structure is impractical, such as a congested tanker truck unloading area.
Drainage mats are typically made of synthetic rubber materials and can be stored on
site or carried on a fuel delivery truck. The use of drainage mats is a low-cost
solution to providing a degree of containment; however, it is not as fail-safe as the
other containment techniques, since it is dependent upon the operator properly
placing the mat.

Materials such as foams and gelling agents are commonly used to contain
small spills in areas where physical secondary containment is not available. Foams
that solidify to form a physical barrier or dike are highly effective forms of emergency
secondary containment.

Spill Diversion Ponds or Retention Ponds

Spill diversion or retention ponds should be constructed with an impervious

base utilizing HDPE sheets or geo-membranes to prevent soil and / or groundwater
contamination. These ponds should not be constructed in areas prone to flooding.

6.10.2 Response Strategies – Off-Site Spills

The objective of surface containment is to prevent the spread of oil on the

soil or substrate surface and to prepare it for recovery or treatment. This usually can
be achieved using easily available materials (i.e., shovels, earth-moving machinery,
trucks, damming materials, sorbents, etc.) to construct berms, dams, barriers, and
trenches to divert and contain the flow. Containment and damming to pool the oil are
important if the oil is to be pumped and / or sucked up. Several techniques are also
discussed to contain and divert subsurface flow.

155
Strategies

 Act quickly.

 Contain and control as near source as possible.

 Protect resources in oil pathway.

 Prevent oil reaching streams, rivers, or groundwater.

 Use the natural features to contain and control flow whenever possible.

Strategies for Spill Fires - Ground Level

 Operators should determine the source of leakage or spill immediately and

stop it, if possible. If is a continuous leakage which cannot stopped, the
particular piece of equipment involved should be taken out of service,
depressurised and steamed, if necessary.

 Blanket small fires with steam or dry powder but avoid scattering burning
materials.

 In case of large spill fire, direct high pressure water fog into the source of
leakage. Protect surrounding structures with water spray. Maintain the water
flow unit the operators control the flow of fuel.

 Apply foam to extinguish fires in oil pools or trenches.

 Maintain adequate drainage of the fire area.

 Avoid working above sewer drains or near fire traps.

Points to Remember

 Always pay attention to fire and health hazards.

 Start containment operations immediately to prevent oil from reaching a

watercourse, the groundwater, or otherwise sensitive area or object.

 Evaluate logistical factors (safety, access, availability, etc.) to assess

feasibility and to ensure effective and efficient implementation.

 Consider the type of equipment that can be used, as different equipment has
different operational capabilities. It is necessary to match planned activities
with the available equipment and personnel.

156
  As much as possible, do not allow vehicles to run over oil-saturated areas.

 Do not flush the oil down clean drains and other inlets.

 Do not use excavators on areas with free oil on the surface.

 Containment is easier on land than on open water.

Methods

A decision guide for choosing containment methods is provided in Figure 6.1. The
terrestrial containment techniques are summarized below:

 Earth containment or diversion berm

 Containment or diversion trench

 Sorbent barrier

 Culvert and drain blocking

 Soil interceptor trench

Table 6.1: Metrological Conditions for Consequence Analysis

Parameter Case

Ambient Temperature 32°C

Atmospheric stability F and D

Relative humidity 76%

2 m/s for stability class F

Wind speed 3 m/s for stability class D
5 m/s for stability class D

Table 6.2: Pasquill – Giffard Atmospheric Stability Classes

Stability
S. No. Weather Conditions
Class
1. A Very unstable - sunny, light wind
2. A/B Unstable - as with A only less sunny or more windy

157
 3. B Unstable - as with A/B only less sunny or more windy
4. B/C Moderately unstable – moderate sunny and moderate wind
5. C Moderately unstable-very windy / sunny or overcast / light wind
6. C/D Moderate unstable – moderate sun and high wind
7. D Neutral – little sun and high wind or overcast / windy night
8. E Moderately stable – less overcast and less windy night thand
9. F Stable – night with moderate clouds and light / moderate wind
10. G Very stable – possibly fog

Table 6.3: Damage Criteria in kW/m² for Heat Load

T = 10 seconds t = 30 seconds t = 60 seconds

Exposure
time With Without With Without With Without
Protection Protection Protection Protection Protection Protection
1% lethal
21.2 16.5 9.3 7.3 5.5 4.3
injury
First
degree 8.5 6.9 4.0 3.0 2.2 1.8
burns

Table 6.4: Damage Caused at Various Heat Loads

S. Heat loads Type of Damage Intensity

No. (kW/m²) Damage to Equipment Human Injury
Damage to process 100% lethality in 1 min. 1% lethality in
1 37.5
equipment 10 sec
Minimum energy required to 50% Lethality in 1 min. Significant
2 25.0
ignite wood injury in 10 sec
Maximum thermal radiation
3 19.0 intensity allowed on thermally --
unprotected equipment
Minimum energy required to
4 12.5 1% lethality in 1 min
melt plastic tubing
First degree burns, causes pain for
5 4.0 --
exposure longer than 10 sec
Causes no discomfort on long
6 1.6 --
exposures
Source: techniques for assessing industrial hazards by world bank

158
 Table 6.5: Summary of Consequence Analysis for Well Blowout Scenario

Maximum Damage Distance (m)

Weather
Scenario 4.0
Category 37.5 kW/m² 12.5 kW/m²
kW/m²
2F - 106.31 335.2
Blow out of Well
3D - 140.94 358.2
5D - 178.36 376.2

Table 6.6: Consequence Analysis for Pool Fire Scenario

Scenario Leak Size Source Pool Weather Damage Distance (m) for
Considered
(mm) Strength Radius Various Heat Loads
(kg/sec) (m) 37.5 12.5 4.0
kW/m² kW/m² kW/m²
Fuel 10 0.21 3.31 2F 7.80 16.46 25.29
Storage 3D 8.89 17.91 26.42
Tank
5D 9.45 18.67 26.82
25 1.35 5.75 2F 9.14 20.35 33.08
3D 9.16 22.03 33.75
5D 9.26 23.86 34.88
50 5.42 5.75 2F 9.25 20.47 33.19
3D 9.21 22.07 33.80
5D 9.44 24.04 35.06
Catastrophic - 5.75 2F 7.16 18.38 31.10
Rupture 3D 7.22 20.08 31.81
5D 7.53 22.13 33.15

159
 CHAPTER – 7
7.0 Environment Public Hearing
7.1 EPH at Bankura District:
West Bengal Pollution Control Board after observing all formalities held the Public
Hearing on 17.07.2014 at 12:30 hrs in village Laugram, in Bankura District, West
Bengal. Details are attached as Annexure-XVI

160
7.2 EPH at Hooghly District:
West Bengal Pollution Control Board after observing all formalities held the Public
Hearing on 23.07.2014 at 12:00 hrs in the office of Block Development Officer,
Jangipara Development Block, village Jangipara, in Hooghly District, West Bengal.
Details are attached as Annexure-XVII.

161
8.0 Conclusion
ONGC has been awarded Exploration (onshore) Block WB-ONN-2005/3, in Bengal
Basin, West Bengal State for exploration of hydrocarbons. ONGC has proposed to
drill three exploratory wells in the block. The baseline status of ambient air quality
was carried out at selected sites in the 10 Km radius of the proposed drilling wells.
All significant activities such as land acquisition, road/site clearance, drill site
preparation, diesel generation sets, waste pits well development and work over
operations have been accounted for in the study. It has been observed that the
proposed project would not have any major impacts which can lead to serious issue
of environmental pollution or any other hazards. Considering the probability of
impacts, proponent has planned adequate mitigation measures and EMP to
overcome any likely adverse impacts.

162
Annexure-I

163
Annexure-II

164
Annexure-III

165
Annexure-IV (TOR)

166
167
168
169
170
 DESCRIPTION OF COST ELEMENTS Annexure V

S.No. DESCRIPTION OF COST ELEMENTS FIRM BUDGET

INR (Rs)
1 Drilling preparation/Well planning (includes LAQ, Civil 6784000
Engineering Services Cost, other drilling preparation cost
etc)
2 Drilling Cost
a. Rig Mobilization 2722716
b. Rig hire/Rig Operation (Chartered Hire Rig) Cost 27227160
considering 60 drilling days @8562USD
c. Cementing Services 14215342
d. Mud Services 13838088
e. Casing 13416791
f. Bits 2583114
g. Well Head 2202574
h. Logging 33920000
i. Mud Logging 3180000
3 HSE 3180000
4 Logistics 30000000
5 Infocom 2500000
6 Miscellaneous Expenditure 13174215
7 Manpower Expenditure 70000000
TOTAL 300000000

171
 Annexure-VI
FORM – I
(I) BASIC INFORMATION:-

Sl. No. ITEM DETAILS

1 Name of the project(s) Exploratory Drilling (3 wells) in Bengal Onshore

Block WB-ONN-2005/3 under NELP-VII

2 Sl. No, in Schedule 1B

3 Proposed capacity/area/length/tonnage to be No. of Wells to be drilled = 3

handled/command area/lease area/number of

wells to be drilled

4 New /expansion/ modernization New

5 Existing capacity/ area N.A.

6 Category of Project i.e. “A” OR “B” Category “A”

7 Does it attract the general conditions? If yes, please No

specify

8 Does it attract the specific conditions? If yes, please N.A.

specify

9 Location 3

Plot/survey/khasrano. N.A.

Village Laugram, Santoshpur.

Tehsil N.A.

District Bankura, Hugli & Midnapur

State West Bengal

10 Nearest railway station/ airport along with distance Railway Station: Arambagh
in kms.
Airport (Dum Dum)

11 Nearest town, city, district headquarters along with Nearest town /district /district HQ : Arambagh.
distance in kms.

172
12 Village panchayat, zila parishad, municipal Gram Panchayat: Laugram
corporation local body (complete postal address
Mouza: Laugram, Fatepur, Benerchawk; P.S.
with telephone nos. To be given)
Katulpur , Dist: Bankura. West Bengal

Gram Panchayat: Radhanagar. Mouza: Santoshpur ,

Ghanshyampur, Jagannathpur. P.S. Jangipara
Dist: Hugli.

13 Name of the applicant Basin Manager, MBA Basin, M/S Oil and Natural Gas
Corporation Ltd. (ONGCL)

14 Registered address 50 J.L.Nehru Road, Kolkata-700071,

West Bengal

15 Address for correspondence:

Name P.C. Biswas

Designation (owner/partner/ceo) Chief Chemist-I/C HSE

Address ONGC, HSE Section, 4th Floor,AC Market, 1

Shakespear Sarani. Kolkata

Pin code 700071

E- mail debashischakravorty@gmail.com

Telephone no. 033-2282-0094

Fax no. 033-2282-0094

16 Details of alternative sites examined, if any: location No alternative site examined

of these sites should be shown on a toposheet

17 Interlinked projects N.A.

18 Whether separate application of interlinked project N.A.

has been submitted

19 If yes, date of submission N.A.

20 If no, reason N.A.

21 Whether the proposal involves approval/ This proposal is in Agricultural Field

clearance/under: if yes, details of the same and their
status is to be given: (A) No forest within 10 km radius

(A) The forest (conservation) act, 1980? (B) N.A.

(B) The wild life (protection) act, 1972?
(C) The CRZ notification, 1991?

173
 (C) N.A.

22 Whether there is any government order/ policy No

relevant/ relating to the site?

23 Forest land involved (hectares) Nil

Whether there is any litigation pending against the No

project and/ or land in which the project is proposed
to be set up?

(A) Name of the court.

(B) Case no.
(C) Orders/ direction of the court, if any and its
relevance with the proposed project.

(II) Activity:

1. Construction, operation or decommissioning of the Project involving actions,

which will cause physical changes in the locality (topography, land use,
changes in water bodies, etc.):

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / No Details thereof (with

No. approximate quantities / rates,
wherever possible) with source
of information data

1.1 Permanent or temporary change in land Yes Site will be leveled and
use, land cover or topography including hardened during civil work
increase in intensity of land use (with before rig deployment
respect to local land use plan).

1.2 Clearance of existing land, vegetation and No Paddy field will be used
buildings?

1.3 Creation of new land uses? - -

1.4 Pre-construction investigations e.g. bore - -

houses, soil testing?

1.5 Construction works? Yes Civil construction for site and

approach Road

1.6 Demolition works? -- ---

174
1.7 Temporary sites used for construction -- ---
works or housing of construction
workers?

1.8 Above ground buildings, structures or No ---

earthworks including linear structures,
cut and fill or excavations

1.9 Underground works including mining or No ---

tunneling?

1.10 Reclamation works? -- ---

1.11 Dredging? No ---

1.12 Offshore structures? No ---

1.13 Production and manufacturing No --

processes?

1.14 Facilities for storage of goods or Yes Temporary stores for rig
materials? materials during drilling

1.15 Facilities for treatment or disposal of Yes Recycling of liquid effluents (ETP
solid waste or liquid effluents? in place) and waste solid will be
washed and used for road fill up.

1.16 Facilities for long term housing of No --

operational workers?

1.17 New road, rail or sea traffic during No --

construction or operation?

1.18 New road, rail, air waterborne or other No --

transport infrastructure including new or
already routes and stations, ports,
airports etc.?

1.19 Closure or diversion of existing transport No --

routes or infrastructure leading to
changes in traffic movements?

1.20 New or diverted transmission lines or No --

pipelines?

1.21 Impoundment, damming, culverting, No --

realignment or other changes to the
hydrology of watercourses or aquifers?

175
1.22 Stream crossings? No --

1.23 Abstraction or transfers of water from Yes Transfer of surface water

ground or surface waters?

1.24 Changes in water bodies or the land No --

surface affecting drainage or run-off?

1.25 Transport of personnel or materials for Yes By Road

construction, operation or
decommissioning?

1.26 Long-term dismantling or No --

decommissioning or restoration works?

1.27 Ongoing activity during decommissioning No --

which could have an impact on the
environment?

1.28 Influx of people to an area in either Yes Around 30 ONGC employees will
temporarily or permanently? stay in DSA during the
operations

1.29 Introduction of alien species? No --

1.30 Loss of native species or genetic No --

diversity?

1.31 Any other actions? No

--

2. Use of Natural resources for construction or operation of the Project (such as land,
water materials or energy, especially any resources which are non-renewable or in
short supply) :

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / No Details thereof (with approximate

No. quantities / rates, wherever
possible) with source of
information data

2.1 Land especially undeveloped or Yes Agriculture land of approx. 110 x

agricultural land (ha) 110 sq. m.

176
2.2 Water (expected source & competing Yes Surface water: 15-20 KLD.
users) unit: KLD

2.3 Minerals (MT) No -

2.4 Construction material – stone, Yes Leveling and hardening of site only
aggregates, and soil (expected source – during civil work before rig
MT) movement

2.5 Forests and timber (source – MT) No --

2.6 Energy including electricity and fuels
(source, competing users) Unit: fuel (MT),
energy (MW)
Yes 1. Fuel (HSD): Approx. 6 KLD
for generation of electricity
2. Energy Source: Captive 4
DG sets (including 1
standby set) of 1215 KVA
each
3. Power requirement per rig:
2.43- 3.64MW

2.7 Any other natural resources (use No --

appropriate standard units)

3. Use, storage, transport, handling or production of substances or materials, which could

be harmful to human health or the environment or raise concerns about actual or
perceived risks to human health:

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / No Details thereof (with

No. approximate quantities / rates,
wherever possible) with source
of information data

3.1 Use of substances or materials, which are No --

hazardous (as per MSIHC rules) to human
health or the environment (flora, fauna
and water supplies)

3.2 Changes in occurrence of disease or No --

affect disease vectors (e.g. insect or
water borne diseases)

3.3 Affect the welfare of people e.g. by No --

changing living conditions?

177
3.4 Vulnerable groups of people who could No --
be affected by the project e.g. hospital
patients, children, the elderly etc.

3.5 Any other causes No

--

4. Production of solid wastes during construction or operation or decommissioning (MT

/ month) :

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / No Details thereof (with approx.

No. quantities / rates, wherever
possible) with source of
information data

4.1 Spoil, overburden or mine wastes Yes Drill cuttings (200-220 MT approx.)
per well

4.2 Municipal waste (domestic and or No Domestic solid waste = 300 kg

commercial wastes) approx. per month

4.3 Hazardous wastes (as per Hazardous No --

Waste Management Rules)

4.4 Other industrial process wastes No --

4.5 Surplus product No --

4.6 Sewage sludge or other sludge from Yes 0.5 to 0.6 MT/well
effluent treatment

4.7 Construction or demolition wastes No --

4.8 Redundant machinery or equipment No --

4.9 Contaminated solid or other materials No --

4.10 Agricultural wastes No --

4.11 Other solid wastes No --

178
5. Release of pollutant or any hazardous, toxic or noxious substances to air (Kg/hr) :

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / No Details thereof (with

No. approximate quantities / rates,
wherever possible) with source
of information data

5.1 Emissions from combustion of fossil fuels Yes Emission from Engines
from stationary or mobile sources consuming 6-8 KLD HSD

5.2 Emissions from production processes No --

5.3 Emissions from materials handling No --

including storage or transport

5.4 Emissions from construction activities No --

including plant and equipment

5.5 Dust or odors from handling of materials Yes Just due to vehicular movement.
including construction materials, sewage
and waste

5.6 Emissions from incineration of waste No --

5.7 Emissions from burning of waste in open No --

air (e.g. slash materials, construction
debris)

5.8 Emissions from any other sources No --

6. Generation of Noise and vibration, and Emissions of Light and Heat :

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / No Details thereof (with

No. approximate quantities / rates,
wherever possible) with source

179
 of information data

6.1 From operation of equipment e.g. Yes Will be maintained below

engines, ventilation plant, crushers prescribed limit

6.2 From industrial or similar processes No --

6.3 From construction or demolition No --

6.4 From blasting or piling Yes No blasting. Minor noise during

piling for civil work

6.5 From construction or operational traffic No --

6.6 From lighting or cooling systems Yes As per best Industrial practice

6.7 From any other sources No --

7. Risks of contamination of land or water from releases of pollutants into the ground
or into sewers, surface waters, ground water, coastal waters or the sea :

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / No Details thereof (with

No. approximate quantities / rates,
wherever possible) with source
of information data

7.1 From handling, storage, use or spillage of No --

hazardous materials

7.2 From discharge of sewage or other No ETP is used in the rig.

effluents to water or the land (expected
mode and place of

discharge )

7.3 By deposition of pollutants emitted to air No --

into the land or into water

7.4 From any other sources No --

7.5 Is there a risk of long term build up of No Project is of exploratory nature.

pollutants in the environment from these
sources?

180
 8. Risk of accidents during construction or operation of the Project, which could affect
human health or the environment:

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / No Details thereof (with

No. approximate quantities / rates,
wherever possible) with source
of information data

8.1 From explosions, spillages, fires etc. from No --

storage, handling, use or production of
hazardous substances

8.2 From any other causes No --

8.3 Could the Project be affected by natural No --

disasters causing environmental damage
(e.g. floods, earthquakes, landslides,
cloudburst etc.)?

9. Factors which should be considered (such as consequential development) which could

lead to environmental effects or the potential for cumulative impacts with other
existing or planned activities in the locality:

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / No Details thereof (with

No. approximate quantities / rates,
wherever possible) with source
of information data

9.1 Lead to development of supporting, lities, No --

ancillary development or development
stimulated by the project which could
have impact on the environment e.g.:

 Supporting infrastructure
(roads, power supply, waste or
waste water treatment, etc.)
 Housing development
 Extractive industries
 Supply industries
 Other

181
9.2 Lead to after-use of the site, which could No --
have an impact on the environment

9.3 Set a precedent for later developments No --

9.4 Have cumulative effects due to proximity No --

to other existing or planned projects with
similar effects

(III) Environmental Sensitivity:

Sl. Information / checklist confirmation Yes / Details thereof (with

No. No approximate quantities /
rates, wherever possible)
with source of information
data

1. Areas protected under international No --

conventions, national or local legislation for
their ecological, landscape, cultural or other
related value

2. Areas which are important or sensitive for No --

ecological reasons – Wetlands, water courses or
other water bodies, coastal zone, biospheres,
mountains, forests

3. Areas used by protected, important or sensitive No --

species of flora or fauna for breeding, nesting,
foraging, resting, over wintering, migration

4. Inland, coastal, marine or underground waters No --

5. State, National boundaries No --

6. Routes or facilities used by the public for access No --

to recreation or other tourist, pilgrim areas

7. Defense installations No --

8. Densely populated or built-up area No --

9. Areas occupied by sensitive man-made land No --

uses (hospitals, schools, places of worship,
community facilities)

182
10. Areas containing important, high quality or No --
scarce resources (ground water resources,
surface resources, forestry, agriculture,
fisheries, tourism, minerals)

11. Areas already subjected to pollution or No --

environmental damage (those where existing
legal environmental standards are exceeded)

12. Areas susceptible to natural hazard which could No --

cause the project to present environmental
problems) earthquakes, subsidence, landslides,
erosion, flooding or extreme or adverse climatic
conditions)

183
 Annexure-VII

Pre-feasibility Report

1. Executive Summary:

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. (ONGC) has been playing an important role to
meet the energy requirements of the country to meet the rapidly growing demand for
petroleum products in the country. To meet growing energy requirements a New
Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) has been formulated by the Government of
India. At present, India's demand for petroleum products is growing at a rapid rate.
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. is engaged in exploration and production
activities. Under the new exploration licensing policy (NELP) of Govt. of India, Oil
and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has been awarded an Exploration (onshore)
Block WB-ONN-2005/3 in Bengal Basin, West Bengal State for exploration of
hydrocarbons. The block WB-ONN-2005/3 is a nomination block located in the state
of West Bengal and spreads over Hugli, Bankura & Midnapur districts. ONGC under
its Minimum Work Programme (MWP) has proposed to undertake drilling activity for
exploration of hydrocarbons in block WB-ONN-2005/3. Three wells will be drilled to
test occurrence of hydrocarbons in identified formations and also to assess
commercial viability of the block for hydrocarbon production.

2. Introduction of the Project/ Background Information:

Sr. no. Subject Details

i) Identification of project and project Exploratory drilling (3 wells) in Bengal
proponent. In case of mining project, a Basin(Onshore);
copy of mining lease/ letter of intent
should be given Block: WB-ONN-2005/3, under NELP-VII

Project Proponent:

ED- Basin Manager, MBA Basin, ONGC, 50

J.L.Nehru Road, KOLKATA-700071

Tel.No:033-22822758

Fax No: 033-22821752

ii) Brief description of nature of the project Exploratory drilling (3 wells)- target
depth: 2000,2300 & 2000 m
iii) Need for the project and its importance to To explore for hydrocarbons in West
the country and / or region: Bengal and to enhance HC reserve
accretion of the country
iv) Demand-Supply Gap : Roughly 30% of Petroleum products’
demand is met by indigenous production
v) Imports vs. Indigenous production: Roughly 30% of Petroleum products’
demand is met by indigenous production

184
 vi) Export Possibility
vii) Domestic/ Export Markets
viii) Employment Generation (Direct and
Indirect) due to the project:
3. Project Description:
Sr. no. Subject
i) Type of project including interlinked
and interdependent projects, if any
ii) Location (map showing general
location, specific location and project
boundary & project site layout) with
coordinates
iii) Details of alternative sites considered
and the basis of selecting the proposed
site, particularly the environmental
considerations gone into should be
highlighted
iv) Size or magnitude of operation:
v) Project description with process details
(a schematic diagram/ flow chart
showing the project layout,
components of the project etc. should
be given)
vi) Raw material required along with
estimated quantity, likely source,
marketing area of final product/s,
Mode of transport of raw material and
finished product
vii) Resource optimization/ recycling and
reuse envisaged in the project, if any,
should be briefly outlined
viii) Availability of water, its source,
Nil
Domestic
Local temporary recruitment of
contingent workers during project period
Details
Exploratory drilling (3 wells) in
Bengal Basin(Onshore); interlinked
and interdependent projects Nil
Yet to generate
Nil
Size of the land for each location:
110x110 sq. m.
Period of operation for each
location: 3 to 4 months approx.
Exploratory drilling of 3 wells.
Details will be given along with
EIA Studies.
Quantity of chemical to be used
per well (approx.): Bentonite-70
to 80 MT, Barite-300 to 400 MT,
NaOH-10 to 12 MT, Soda ash-5
MT, CMC-10 to 12 MT, Thinner-
25 to 27 MT, PHPA-3 MT, PCA-
3 to 4 MT, D.D – 15 to 20
Drums, S.A – 4 to 5 MT, R.L – 4
to 5 MT, and AL ST. – 0.8 to 1.0
MT.
Source : authorized suppliers
Transport: By Road
Wells are of exploratory nature;
there are no finished products.
Recycling of drilling fluid will be
carried out
Water supplied by authorized
185
 energy/ power requirement and source
should be given
ix) Quantity of wastes to be generated
(liquid and solid) and scheme for their
management/ disposal
x) Schematic representations of the
feasibility drawing which give
information of EIA purpose
4. Site Analysis:
Sr. no. Subject
i) Connectivity
ii) Land form, Land use and Land
ownership
iii) Topography (along with map)
iv) Existing land use pattern (agriculture,
non-agriculture, forest, water bodies
(including area under CRZ), shortest
distances from the periphery of the
project to periphery of the forests,
national park, wild life sanctuary, eco
sensitive areas, water bodies (distance
from the HFL of the river), CRZ. In
case of notified industrial area, a copy
of the Gazette notification should be
given
v) Existing Infrastructure
vi) Soil Classification
vii) Climatic data from secondary sources
viii) Social Infrastructure available
5. Planning Brief:
Sr. no. Subject
i) Planning Concept (type of industries,
facilities, transportation etc.) Town and
Country Planning/ Development
Authority Classification
ii) Population Projection
agencies from nearest town,
source: surface water;
Energy/ power requirement per
rig: 2.43- 3.64MW from Captive
DG sets.
Recycling of liquid effluents and
waste solid will be washed and
used for road fill up
Will be covered in final EIA
studies
Details
Nearest Rly. station: N.A.
Flat & Agricultural land, Private
Flat & Agricultural land.
Location yet to be generated.
Agricultural land
No forest, national park, wild life
sanctuary, eco sensitive area,
CRZ within 10km
Nil; Land acquisition in progress
Sandy clay soil
Moist humid climate; details will
be covered in final EIA studies
Details will be covered in final
EIA studies
Details
Exploratory drilling for HC
reserve accretion
Around 30 ONGC employees
and around 30 contingent
186
 workers from local area
iii) Land use Planning (breaking along Only 110x110 sq. m. of flat
with green belt etc.) agricultural land will be used as
Drillsite. No green belt within
10km
iv) Assessment of Infrastructure Demand N.A.
(Physical & Social)
v) Amenities /Facilities DSA will be established in the
nearby area.

6. Proposed Infrastructure:

Sr. no. Subject Details

i) Industrial Area (Processing Area) N.A.
ii) Residential Area (Non-Processing Temporary DSA will be
Area) established
iii) Green Belt N.A.
iv) Social Infrastructure Details will be covered in final
EIA studies
v) Connectivity (Traffic and Nearest Rly station: N.A.,
Transportation Road/Rail/Metro/Water location is road connected.
ways etc.)
vi) Drinking Water Management (Source & Surface water supplied by
Supply of water) authorized agencies from nearest
town
vii) Sewage system ETP is a part of drilling rig
viii) Industrial Waste Management EMP will be covered in EIA
studies
ix) Solid Waste Management After washing, waste solid
cuttings will be used for road fill
up
x) Power Requirement & Supply/Source 4 DG sets of 1215KVA each

7. Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R & R) Plan:

Sr. no. Subject Details

i) Policy to be adopted (Centre/State) in No home/land oustees
respect of the project affected persons
including home oustees, land oustees
and landless labourers ( a brief outline
to be given)

187
 8. Project Schedule & Cost Estimates:

Sr. no. Subject Details

i) Likely date of start of construction and N.A.
likely date of completion (time
schedule for the project to be given):

ii) Estimated project cost along with Rs. 90 Crores for 3 wells
analysis in terms of economic viability (approx.). Project is of
of the project: exploratory nature.

9. Analysis of proposal (Final Recommendations)

Sr. no. Subject Details

i) Financial and social benefits with Temporary employment of local
special emphasis on the benefit to the people, no tribal population in the
local people including tribal surrounding area
population, if any, in the area

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

for
Date: Executive Director-Basin Manager
Place: Kolkata
MBA Basin, ONGC, Kolkata

188
Annexure-VIII

189
Annexure-IX

190
 Annexure X
Guidelines for Disposal of Drill Cuttings & Drilling Fluids for
Offshore and On-Shore Oil Drilling Operations
Disposal of Drill Cuttings & Drilling Fluids for On-shore Installations;

a) Drill cuttings originating from on-shore or locations close to shore line and separated
from Water Base Mud (WBM) should be properly washed and unusable drilling fluids
such as WBM, Oil Base Mud (OBM), and Synthetic Base Mud (SBM) should be
disposed off-site or on-site. The disposal pit should be provided with leachate collection
system. Details of design in respect of the impervious waste disposal pit and capping of
disposal pit and capping of disposal pit should be provided by the oil industry to
concerned SPCB at the time of obtaining consent.
b) Use of diesel base mud is prohibited. Only WBM should be used for on-shore oil
drilling operations.
c) In case of any problem arising due to geological formation for drilling, low toxicity
OBM having aromatic content > 1% should be used. If the operators intend to use such
OBM to mitigate specific hole problem, it should be intimated to MoEF and SPCB.
d) The chemical additives used for the preparation of drilling fluids should have low
toxicity i.e. 96 hrLC50. 30,000 mg/l as per mysid toxicity or toxicity test conducted on
locally available sensitive sea species. The chemicals used (mainly organic constituents)
should be biodegradable.
e) Drill cuttings separated from OBM after washing should have oil content <10 gm/kg
for disposal into disposal pit.
f) The waste pit, after it is filled up, shall be covered with impervious liner, over which, a
thick layer of native soil with proper top slope be provided.
g) Low toxicity OBM should be made available at installation during drilling operation.
h) Drilling wastewater including drill cuttings wash water should be collected in a
disposal pit evaporated or treated and should comply with the notified standards for on-
shore disposal.
i) Barite used in preparation of drill fluid shall not contain Hg > 1 mg/kg & Cd > 3 mg/kg j)
Total area acquired for preparation of drill site must be restored after completion of
drilling operation leaving no waste material at site.SPCB should be informed about the
restoration work.
k) In case, environmentally acceptable methods for disposal of drill waste such as:
(a) Injection to formation through casing annulus, if conditions allow, (b) land farming at
suitable location (c) bio-remediation, (d) incineration or (e) solidification, are considered
for adoption by oil industry, then proposal shall be submitted to SPCB and MoEF for
approval.

Disposal of Drill Cuttings & Drilling Fluids for Offshore Installations;

a) Use of diesel base mud (OBM) is prohibited. Only water base mud (WBM) is ermitted
for offshore drilling. If the operators intend to use low toxicity OBM or SBM to mitigate
specific-hole problems in the formation, it should be intimated to MoEF and SPCB. The
low toxicity OBM should have aromatic content < 1%.
b) The toxicity of chemical additives used in the drilling fluids (WBM or OBM or SBM)
should be biodegradable (mainly organic constituents) and should have toxicity of 96 hr
LC50 value > 30,000 mg/l as per mysid toxicity of test conducted on locally available
sensitive sea species.
c) Hexavalent chromium compound should not be used in drilling fluids. Alternate
chemicals in place of chrome lignosulfonate should be used in drilling fluids. In case,

191
chrome compound is used, the drilling fluids and drill cuttings should not be disposed
offshore.
d) Bulk discharge of drilling fluids in offshore is prohibited except in emergency
situations.
e) WBM / OBM /SBM should be recycled to a maximum extent. Unusable portion of
OBM should not be discharged into Sea and shall be brought to on-shore for treatment
& disposal in an impervious waste disposal pit.
f) Thoroughly washed drill cuttings separated from WBM / SBM & unusable portion of
WBM/SBM having toxicity of 96 hr LC50 > 30,000 mg/l, shall be discharged off-shore
into Sea intermittently at an average rate of 50 bbl/hr/well from a platform so as to have
proper dilution & dispersion without any adverse impact on marine environment.
g) Drill cuttings of any composition should not be discharged in sensitive areas notified
by MoEF.

h) In case of specific whole problem, use of OBM will be restricted with zero discharge of
drill cuttings. Zero discharge would include reinjection of the drill cuttings into a suitable
formation or to bring to shore for proper disposal. In such case, use of OBM for
reinfection should be recorded and such records made available to the regulatory
agency. Low toxic OBM having aromatic content < 1% should be made available at the
installation.
i) In case, drill cuttings are associated with high oil content from hydrocarbon bearing
formation, then disposal of drill cuttings should not have oil content >10 gm/kg.
j) The drill cuttings wash water should be treated to conform to the limits notified under
EPA, before disposal into sea. The treated effluent should be monitored regularly.
k) Discharge of drill cuttings from the installatilon located within 5 km away from shore
should ensure that there is no adverse impact on marine eco-system and on the shore.
If, adverse impact is observed, then the industry has to bring the drill cuttings on-shore
for disposal in an impervious waste disposal pet.
l) If any, environmental friendly technology emerges for substitution of drilling fluids and
disposal technology it may be brought to the notice of MoEF and regulatory agencies. If
the operator desires to adopt such environment friendly technology, a prior approval
from MoEF is required.
m) Barite used in preparation of drilling fluids shall not contain Hg > 1 mg/kg & Cd > 3
mg/kg.
n) Oil drilling operators are required to record daily discharge of drill cuttings & drilling
fluids to offshore and also to monitor daily the effluent quality, and submit the
compliance report once in every six months to MoEF. Enforcing Authority and the
frequency for monitoring of ambient air & marine water quality in respect of offshore
installations, as discussed, may be decided by the MoEF before notification of these
guidelines.

192
 ANNEXURE-XI

th
MINUTES OF THE 14 RECONSTITUTED EXPERT APPRAISAL COMMITTEE (INDUSTRY) HELD
th
DURING 19th TO 20 DECEMBER, 2013
th
VENUE: Scope Complex, Core 6, 5 , Floor, IOCL Conference Room, Ministry of Petroleum and
Natural Gas, Lodhi Road, New Delhi 110 003.

14.7.2
Exploratory Drilling (2 wells) in Purnia Basin West Bengal Onshore Block PA-ONN-2005/2, West
Bengal under NELP-VII by M/s Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. (ONGCL) – regarding extension of
Validity of ToR.
th
MoEF vide letter no. J-11011/394/2010-IA –II dated 4 November 2011 has issued TOR for the above
th
mentioned project. Now, project proponent vide letter dated 7 October, 2013 has requested for
extension of validity of TOR for one more year as public hearing has to be conducted. After detailed
deliberations, the committee recommended for the extension of validity of TOR for a period of one
year with effect from 4.11.2013.

14.7.3

Exploratory Drilling (3 wells) in Bengal Onshore Block WB-ONN-2005/2, West Bengal under NELP-VII
by M/s Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. (ONGCL) – regarding extension of Validity of ToR.
th
MoEF vide letter no. J-11011/394/2010-IA –II dated 4 November 2011 has issued TOR for the above
th
mentioned project. Now, project proponent vide letter dated 7 October, 2013 has requested for
extension of validity of TOR for one more year as public hearing has to be conducted. After detailed
deliberations, the committee recommended for the extension of validity of TOR for a period of one
year with effect from 4.11.2013.

14.7.4

Exploratory Drilling (6 wells) in Bengal Onshore Block WB-ONN-2005/4, West Bengal under NELP-VII
by M/s Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. (ONGCL) – Extension of Validity of TOR reg.
th
MoEF vide letter no. J-11011/395/2010-IA –II dated 4 November 2011 has issued TOR for the
th
above mentioned project. Now, project proponent vide letter dated 7 October, 2013 has requested
for extension of validity of TOR for one more year as public hearing has to be conducted. After
detailed deliberations, the committee recommended for the extension of validity of TOR for a period of
one year with effect from 4.11.2013

14.7.5

Exploratory Drilling (3 wells) in Bengal Onshore Block WB-ONN-2005/3, West Bengal under
NELP-VII by M/s Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. (ONGCL) – Extension of Validity of TOR
reg.
th
MoEF vide letter no. J-11011/396/2011-IA –II dated 4 November 2011 has issued TOR for the above
th
mentioned project. Now, project proponent vide letter dated 7 October, 2013 has requested for
extension of validity of TOR for one more year as public hearing has to be conducted. After detailed
deliberations, the committee recommended for the extension of validity of TOR for a period of one
year with effect from 4.11.2013.

193