MODULE 6

Standards for Water, Air and Noise Quality - Environmental Management Plan- EIA- Case
studies of EIA

6.1 WATER QUALITY STANDARDS

1. Drinking water standards as per IS 10500-2012

Parameters concerning Toxic substances
2. EFFLUENT STANDARDS as per Environmental Protection rules
3. STREAM STANDARDS
6.2 AIR QUALITY STANDARDS

National Ambient Air Quality Standards [As Notified on 11th April, 1994 by the Central
Pollution Control Board in exercise of its power conferred under section 16 (2) (h) of the
Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 (14 of 1981)
6.3 NOISE QUALITY STANDARDS

6.4 Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

Preparation of environmental management plan is required for formulation, implementation and

monitoring of environmental protection measures during and after commissioning of projects.
The plans should indicate the details as to how various measures have been or are proposed to be
taken including cost components as may be required. Cost of measures for environmental
safeguards should be treated as an integral component of the project cost and environmental
aspects should be taken into account at various stages of the projects:

 Conceptualization: preliminary environmental assessment

 Planning: detailed studies of environmental impacts and design of safeguards
 Execution: implementation of environmental safety measures
  Operation: monitoring of effectiveness of built-in safeguards

The management plans should be necessarily based on considerations of resource conservation

and pollution abatement, some of which are:

 Liquid Effluents
 Air Pollution
 Solid Wastes
 Noise and Vibration
 Occupational Safety and Health
 Prevention, maintenance and operation of Environment Control Systems
 House-Keeping
 Human Settlements
 Transport Systems
 Recovery - reuse of waste products
 Vegetal Cover
 Disaster Planning
 Environment Management Cell

1. Liquid Effluents
o Effluents from the industrial plants should be treated well to the standards as
prescribed by the Central/State Water Pollution Control Boards.
o Soil permeability studies should be made prior to effluents being discharged into
holding tanks or impoundments and steps taken to prevent percolation and ground
water contamination.
o Special precautions should be taken regarding flight patterns of birds in the area.
Effluents containing toxic compounds, oil and grease have been known to cause
extensive death of migratory birds. Location of plants should be prohibited in
such type of sensitive areas.
 o Deep well burial of toxic effluents should not be resorted to as it can result in re-
surfacing and ground water contamination. Re-surfacing has been known to cause
extensive damage to crop and live stocks.
o In all cases, efforts should be made for re-use of water and its conservation.
2. Air Pollution
o The emission levels of pollutants from the different stacks, should conform to the
pollution control standards prescribed by Central or State Boards.
o Adequate control equipment should be installed for minimizing the emission of
pollutants from the various stacks.
o In-plant control measures should be taken to contain the fugitive emissions.
o Infrastructural facilities should be provided for monitoring the stack emissions
and measuring the ambient air quality including micro-meteorological data
(wherever required) in the area.
o Proper stack height as prescribed by the Central/State Pollution Control Boards
should be provided for better dispersion of pollutants over a wider area to
minimize the effect of pollution.
o Community buildings and townships should be built up-wind of plant with one-
half to one kilometer greenbelt in addition to physiographical barrier.
3. Solid Wastes
o The site for waste disposal should be checked to verify permeability so that no
contaminants percolate into the ground water or river/lake.
o Waste disposal areas should be planned down-wind of villages and townships.
o Reactive materials should be disposed of by immobilizing the reactive materials
with suitable additives.
o The pattern of filling disposal site should be planned to create better landscape
and be approved by appropriate agency and the appropriately pretreated solid
wastes should be disposed according to the approved plan.
o Intensive programs of tree plantation on disposal areas should be undertaken.
4. Noise and Vibration
Adequate measures should be taken for control of noise and vibrations in the industry.
5. Occupational Safety and Health
Proper precautionary measures for adopting occupational safety and health standards
should be taken.
6. Prevention, maintenance and operation of Environment Control Systems
o Adequate safety precautions should be taken during preventive maintenance and
shut down of the control systems.
o A system of inter-locking with the production equipment should be implemented
where highly toxic compounds are involved.
7. House - Keeping
Proper house-keeping and cleanliness should be maintained both inside and outside of the
industry.
8. Human Settlements
o Residential colonies should be located away from the solid and liquid waste
dumping areas. Meteorological and environmental conditions should be studied
properly before selecting the site for residential areas in order to avoid air
pollution problems.
o Persons who are displaced or have lost agricultural lands as a result of locating the
industries in the area, should be properly rehabilitated.
9. Transport Systems
o Proper parking places should be provided for the trucks and other vehicles by the
industries to avoid any congestion or blocking of roads.
o Siting of industries on the highways should be avoided as it may add to more road
accidents because of substantial increase in the movements of heavy vehicles and
unauthorized shops and settlements coming up around the industrial complex.
o Spillage of chemicals/substances on roads inside the plant may lead to accidents.
Proper road safety signs both inside and outside the plant should be displayed for
avoiding road accidents.
10. Recovery - reuse of waste products
Efforts should be made to recycle or recover the waste materials to the extent possible.
The treated liquid effluents can be conveniently and safely used for irrigation of lands,
plants and fields for growing non-edible crops.
 11. Vegetal Cover
Industries should plant trees and ensure vegetal cover in their premises. This is
particularly advisable for those industries having more than 10 acres of land.
12. Disaster Planning
Proper disaster planning should be done to meet any emergency situation arising due to
fire, explosion, sudden leakage of gas etc. Firefighting equipment and other safety
appliances should be kept ready for use during disaster/emergency situation including
natural calamities like earthquake/flood.
13. Environment Management Cell
Each industry should identify within its setup a Department/Section/Cell with trained
personnel to take up the model responsibility of environmental management as required
for planning and implementation of the projects.

Objectives of the EMP

The objectives of the EMP are to:

 Identify a range of mitigation measures which could reduce and mitigate the potential
impacts to minimal or insignificant levels;
 To identify measures that could optimize beneficial impacts;
 To create management structures that address the concerns and complaints of
stakeholders with regards to the development;
 To establish a method of monitoring and auditing environmental management practices
during all phases of development;
 Ensure that the construction and operational phases of the project continues within the
principles of Integrated Environmental Management;
 Detail specific actions deemed necessary to assist in mitigating the environmental
impact of the project;
 Ensure that the safety recommendations are complied
 Propose mechanisms for monitoring compliance with the EMP and reporting thereon;
and
  Specify time periods within which the measures contemplated in the final environmental
management plan must be implemented, where appropriate.

GOALS OF EMP

 Develop procedures to implement mitigation measures and monitoring requirements

 Provide audible commitments to practical and achievable strategies and design standards.
 Develop integrated plan for comprehensive monitoring and control of project impacts.

ELEMENTS OF EMP
 Description of mitigation measures
 How can we implement these mitigation measures?
 Program for monitoring environmental concerns
 Developing a monitoring plan including items to be monitored, when and by whom it
should be monitored.
 Identify the sources of fund.
EMP should contain
1. Details of required technical works with necessary staff, supplies, equipment’s
and cost during
 Preconstruction
 Construction
 Operational
2. Description of activities to be undertaken including consultation with stake
holders, scheduling, expected output, etc.
3. Designed operational plan for implementation of environmental protection
measures
4. Policies for efficient functioning of EPMs
5. Develop an environmental management office (EMO) to organize the process.
PRINCIPLES  AND  PROCEDURES  OF  AN  ENVIRONMENTAL  MANAGEMENT 
PLAN
Principles of Monitoring 
Certain principles of EIA Monitoring should be considered, and not overlooked. 
If the EIA Monitoring process is to generate meaningful information and improve implementatio
n of mitigation measures, it is better to accomplish the following activities:
•  carefully determine the indicators to be used in Monitoring activities; • 
collect meaningful and relevant information; • 
apply measurable criteria in relation to chosen indicators; • 
pass objective judgments on the information collected; • 
draw tangible conclusions based on the processing of information; • 
make rational decisions based on the conclusions drawn; and, • 
recommend improved mitigation measures to be undertaken by the developer.
 
 Types of Monitoring 
Various types of Monitoring activities are currently in practice, each of which is 
relevant to an EIA Study. The main types are: 
a)  Baseline Monitoring 
A survey should be conducted on basic environmental parameters in the area  surrounding  the 
proposed  project  before  construction  begins  (PreAudit 
Study). Subsequent Monitoring can assess the changes in those parameters 
over time, against the baseline. 
b)  Impact Monitoring  The physical, biological, and socio-
economic and cultural parameters within 
the project area must be measured during the period of project construction  and  operation  in 
order to  detect  environmental  changes  which  may  have 
occurred as a result of project implementation. 
c)  Compliance Monitoring  This  form  of  Monitoring  employs  a  periodic  sampling  method, 
or  a  continuous recording of specific environmental quality indicators or pollution  levels,  to 
ensure  project  compliance  with  recommended  environmental  protection standards. 

Environmental Auditing 
Principles of Auditing 
The  term  “Audit”  is  usually  associated  with  the  professions  of  finance  and 
accounting. Auditing refers to the examination and assessment of a certain type of  performance. 
In  the  case  of  an  EIA,  an  Audit  should  assess  the  actual  environmental  impact,  the 
accuracy  of  prediction,  the  effectiveness  of 
environmental impact mitigation and enhancement measures, and the functioning 
of monitoring mechanisms. As per EPR54, the Audit should be undertaken after 
the project has been operational for two years. It is usually performed once for  each project. 
Types of Audit 
The following types of audit are recommended for different aspects of the EIA  process: 
a)  Decision Point Audit: It examines the effectiveness of EIA as a decision  making tool. 
b)  Implementation Audit:It ensures that consent conditions have been met. 
c)  Performance Audit: It examines the effectiveness of project implementation 
and management. 
d)  Project  Impact  Audit:  It  examines  environmental  changes  arising  from 
Project Implementation. 
e)  Predictive  Technique  Audit:  It  examines  the  accuracy  and  utility  of 
predictive techniques by comprising actual against predicted environmental  effects. 
f)  EIA Procedures Audit: It critically examines  the  methods and approach 
adopted during the EIA Study. 

EXAMPLE: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR HYDRO ELECTRIC

PROJECT
Based on planned project activities, environmental baseline conditions and impacts assessed in
earlier chapters, a set of measures has been suggested to mitigate adverse environmental impacts
or to reduce them to acceptable levels during construction and operation phases of the project.
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN FOR HYDRO ELECTRIC PROJECT
6.5 CASE STUDY
6.5.1 General Structure of Environmental Impact Assessment Document
In terms of the EIA notification of the MOEF dated 14th September 2006, the generic structure
of the EIA document shall be as under:
Introduction
Project Description
 General
 Broader Details of the Project and Location
 Activities for Site Preparation
 Summary of Project Details
 Natural Resources
 Man Power Requirement
 Project Implementation Schedule
Analysis of Alternatives (Technology and Site)
 General
 Consideration of Alternative
Description of the Environment
 General
 Study Area
 Land Environment
 Water Environment
 Air Environment
 Noise Environment
 Biological Environment
 Socio-economic and Health Environment
Anticipated Environmental Impact & Mitigation Measures
 General
 Land Environment
 Water Environment
 Air Environment
 Noise Environment
 Biological Environment
 Socio-economic Environment
 Solid Waste Management
Environmental Monitoring Program
 General
 Control Initiatives
Additional Studies
 General
 Items Identified by the Proponent
 Items Identified by the Regulatory Authority
 Items Identified by the Public and Other Stakeholders
 Natural Resource Conservations and Optimization
 R & R Action Plans
 Road Safety Management System
Project Benefits
Environmental Cost Benefit Analysis
Environmental Management Plan
  General
 Component of EMP
 Environment Cell
Summary & Conclusion
Disclosure of Consultants engaged
6.5.2 CASE STUDY 1
KOCHI METRO RAIL PROJECT
Kochi metro
●Kochi Metro Rail Project-An initiative by Kerala Government.
●Span of 25km with 22 stations from Aluva to Petta and maintenance depot at Muttom.
●Fastest completed metro project in India.
►Opened to public within three years and ten months.
●First metro in country which connects rail,road and water transport facilities.
●The first phase is being set up at an estimated cost of 51.81 billion.
●Former PM Dr Manmohan Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kochi Metro rail project in
2012.
Construction work was started in June 2013.
●2 phases ►1st phase-Aluva to Petta
►2nd phase-Petta to Thripoonithara
●13.4 km section of the line from Aluva to Palarivattom was opened to public on 17 June 2017
by PM Narendra Modi
●Kochi metro also includes the technology for driverless trains and is hoping to implement this
in the near future.
ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE DATA
●To ascertain existed baseline condition-before Metro construction.
●Data from field studies – April to May 2005.
LOCATION AND PHYSIOGRAPHY
►Project location – 1.2m above sea level
►Project route – level terrain with little undulations
AIR QUALITY
►Monitoring was done at 8 locations for SPM,RPM,SO2 & Nox.
►Compared with National Ambient Air Quality Standards data (NAAQS)
►RPM & NOx - exceeded at few stations
►SO2 & SPM – within limits
►Overall air quality – Moderate to very unhealthy
►As per AQI – value ranges from 51-300
►Datas were compared with Class SW V water and was within limits
►Class SW V waters-Primary Water Quality criteria for Navigational and Controlled Waste
Disposal

Parameter Observation Standard value

pH 6.23 6.0-9.0

Dissolved Oxygen 3.93 mg/l 3.0 mg/l (min)

Colour and Odour Negligible No colour and Odour

Sludge deposit Nil 10 mg/l

Solid Refuse Negligible 10 mg/l

Floating Solids Occasional Minimum

Oil and Grease Not Defected 10 mg/l

Scum Nil 10 mg/l

NOISE
►Studies at 8 stations at 2.0m away from source as per standard practice.
►Referred with Ambient Air Quality Standards.
►Results found to be slightly greater than permissible levels of 65 dBA on day time & 55dB
on night for commercial areas.
►Average data - During day (52-72dBA)
- During night ( 40-65dBA)
SEISMICITY
►Proposed area falls under Zone III
►As per IMD seismic zones

SEISMIC ZONE INTENSITY

Zone V Very High

Zone IV Severe

Zone III Moderate

Zone II Low

SOCIO-ECONOMIC STUDY (ALUVA-PULINCHODU)

●Studies on demographic structure of area,basic amneties,health status,
people,etc..
●Average literacy rate of Ernakulam district-92.35%.
● District consists about 50% of hindu families,72% general people,37%of people
between 36-60 yrs of age.
●Level of annual income –between Rs 50,000 and Rs 1,00,000 for 1/3rd of population.
●Houses form majority of structures.
●Most houses-less than 20 yrs old,20% houses between 20 and 30 yrs.
PROJECT ROUTE
►Composes of large no.of major,medium and small scale
 industries.
►No important historical monuments
●Minimum dislocation as metro runs along median of road.
●Major source of water supply
►Municipal supply
►Dug wells
●Solid waste removal- municipality(on regular basis)
●Septic tanks-predominant method of sanitation

POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

●Reduction in traffic congestion
●Quick service and safety
●Less fuel consumption
●Reduction in air pollution
●Reduction in noise level
●Better roads
●Employment opportunities
NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
●Negative impacts falls under three categories
►Impact due to project location
►Impact due to project design & construction works
►Impact due to project operation
IMPACT DUE TO PROJECT LOCATION
►Change of land use pattern~16 Hecter
►Loss of trees- 477 (total cost -3.5 lakh)
►Project Affected People(PAPs)-for 25km strech 40 Hecter land is required
►Maintenance depot at Muttom-subjected to water logging in monsoon
IMPACT DUE TO PROJECT DESIGN&CONSTRUCTION WORKS
►Soil erosion due to runoff from unprotected excavations
►Dumping of construction spoils leading to surface and ground water pollution
►Traffic diversion was essentially required
►Impact on water quality due to disposal of waste (construction and sanitation)
►Waste generated from metro station-about 4.5T/day when 25% passengers visiting station
produces refuse
IMPACTS DUE TO PROJECT OPERATION
►Water pollution-due to oil spillage during cleaning and repair process
►Noise-Due to construction and fabrication activities on construction
phase
-Engine noise,cooling fan noise etc. during operational phase
►At operational phase noise is below 80dBA-which is slightly higher
►Overall ambient noise level-reduction of 10-15% due to reduction in road traffic
►Emergency measures are implemented for accident hazards
►Water supply ▪As per Central Public Health Environmental
Engineering Organisation(CPHEEO) workers at
railway stations requires 45litres/day
▪Water demand for other activities-100m³ per day
▪For fire fighting-Municipal water supply system
►Sanitation ▪Passengers refuse is about 100kg/day
▪Collection bins of capacity 120 litres are placed at key
points in the stations
▪Awareness to produce less refuse for a green metro

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

●Tree plantation-planting 10 trees for every tree that is felled (477 trees to be cut)
●KMRL planned to plant 8000 trees – 5159 already planted
●Compensation for loss of trees
►Uprootal of 477 trees
 ►Compensation for loss – Rs 3.5 lakhs
●Water supply and sanitation
►Construction and operation - water supplied from
municipal source
►Sewage generated – disposed off to a combination of
septic tank and soak pit facility
►Solid wastes at stations – disposed off by Kochi
Municipal Co-operation
●Noise
►Increased noise level in ambient air due to construction and
operation of rail
►But overall noise gets reduced – due to reduction in traffic
►Work shift for people working near high level of noises such as
near engine,vent shafts etc..
►Protective device for workers
●Vibration control
►Ballast less tracks supported on 2 layers of rubber pads reduces
track noise and vibration
►By improving track geometry
►Insertion of shock absorbing pads
●Energy management
►By maximum utilization of natural day light
►Switching to energy efficient luminaries eg.LED&CFL
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN
●For constructional and operational phases
●Parameters monitored
►Water quality
►Air quality
Water Quality
●Monitoring plan
►One year before construction
►During construction
►One year after construction
●Monitored atleast four times a year.
●Parameters monitored
►pH
►Total dissolved solids
►Chlorides
►Natural sulphates
●Cost for 4 locations –about Rs 4.00 lakhs
Air Quality & Noise Level
●Same procedure as water quality
●Total cost for 4 stations – about Rs15.20 lakhs

Monitorin Monitoring Number Sampling Frequency Cost (Rs

g parameters of duration lakhs)
proposed
sites

Ambient 4 4 Twice a Four 15.00

air quality week times a
year

Noise dB(A) 4 Once a Seasonal 0.20

levels week

Total cost 15.20

DISASTER MANAGEMENT PLAN

●Developed by KMRL in consultation with District Disaster Management Authority(DDMA).
●Consists of an Emergency Action Committee(EAC) comprising of representatives including
home gaurd,station master, fire brigade etc..
●Operating staffs of Kochi Metro – extensively trained for fire fighting.
●Provision of automatic fire water system in key areas
With and without metro scenario
WITHOUT METRO PROJECT SCENARIO
►Increasing vehicle number-Kochi city has the highest no.of vehicles in state.
►Traffic congestion-Kochi city does not have the proper road infrastructure to meet the rise in
traffic.
►CDM Smith studies in May 2013 –by 2018 Kochi will have 1.41 million road transport based
passengers and an increase to 2.87 million by 2048.
►Concerns on road safety-As per the report ‘Road Accidents in India:2010’ by Ministry of
Road Transport and Highways,Kerala is ranked 3rd with 102 accidents per lakh population.
►In 2010 Kochi was ranked 10th on road accident profile among prominent cities
WITH METRO SCENARIO
►Reduced road stress
►Better accessibility to facilities in the influence area
►Economic stimulations in the micro regions of the infrastructure
►Increased business opportunities
►Overall increased mobility
►Facilitating better planning and up-gradation of influence areas
►Improving the image of the city
►Reduction in emission

6.5.3 CASE STUDY 2

HIGHWAY PROJECT
REHABILITATION AND UP-GRADATION FROM EXISTING 2 LANE TO 4 LANE
FROM SOLAPUR TO YEDESHI SECTION OF NH-211 FROM KM 0.000 TO KM
100.000 AND FROM KM 249.000 TO KM 255.00 OF NH-9 IN THE STATE OF
MAHARASHTRA
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
 The project includes sections of two National Highways, Namely NH-211 and NH-9
which converge at Sholapur town in the state of Maharashtra.
 The proposed project is widening of highway section from existing 2 lane to 4-Lane dual
carriageway configuration from Km 0.000 to Km 100.00 of NH-211 and from Km
249.000 to km 255.000 of NH-9 covering a total length of 106 km. The proposed project
also includes 2 bypasses and 7 major realignments which are listed below

SALIENT FEATURES OF THE PROJECT

  The new 4-Lane facility would be partial access controlled corridor through:
 Provision of service roads
 Pedestrian and cattle underpass
 Vehicular underpasses
 Grade separators
 Exit/entry ramps etc.
 Vehicular underpasses Pedestrian and cattle underpass
POLICIES, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK
Since the project section is greater than 30 Km and would involve additional RoW greater than
20m at many locations , the highway project attracts the provision of Environmental Impact
Assessment Notification, 2006.
 CENTRAL GOVERNMENT IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FOREST
(MOEF)
 o Moreover the proposed project has been classified as CATEGORY A project, and
hence the project requires prior Environmental Clearance from the Central
Government in the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF), Govt. of India
 FOREST DEPARTMENT
o The widening of project section will involve cutting of roadside trees, and hence a
permission for cutting of trees from respective would be required.
o The project stretch falls within 10 Km radius from the boundaries of Wildlife
Sanctuaries, namely The Great Indian Bustard Wildlife Sanctuary in Solapur
district and Yedshi Ramling Wildlife Sanctuary of Osmanabad district.
 NATIONAL BOARD FOR WILDLIFE (NBWL):
o Although, The project stretch is located outside the boundary on these Wildlife
Sanctuaries and does not involve any kind of land acquisition, still the wildlife
clearance would be required by the National Board for wildlife (NBWL) as per
condition stipulated by the MoEF for the project requiring prior environmental
clearance from MoEF.
 POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD UNDER AIR AND WATER ACT :
o During construction period the concessionaires will have to obtain NOC from
respective Pollution Control Board under Air and Water Act for establishing and
operating their stone crushers, Hot mix Plant and batch mix plant.
o Explosive license for storing oils.
o Permission for storage of hazardous chemicals.
o Quarry lease and quarry license for opening and operating stone and sand quarry.
 CENTRAL GROUND WATER AUTHORITY Permission for extraction of ground
water for use in road construction activities from Central Ground Water Authority.
 LINE DEPARTMENT and LABOUR LICENSE Permission for use of surface water for
construction purpose from line department; Labour license, etc. as applicable
DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
 As defined in the Terms of Reference (TOR), baseline data on various physical,
biological and social aspects has been collected, analyzed and compiled in order to get
the picture of the existing environment condition in the project area.
 The data on different environmental components were collected and collated based on
secondary data from authentic sources, ground truthing followed by actual field surveys.
 All the data have been collected and collated to identify a general environmental
condition within the project catchment area and major environmental issues to be taken
care off during the design as well project implementation phase.
 Scope of this exercise was 15 kilometres on both sides from the centre of the road as per
guidelines of Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. However, the
focus of the study was on the areas within and directly adjacent to the corridor of impact
and ROW
(I) PHYSICAL RESOURCES
(A) PHYSIOGRAPHY AND SOIL:
 The geographical extension of the project road section is between 17
 The project area falls under Seismic Zone-III, moderately active in nature. A few
earthquakes being reported in the area in past but the intensity remained below rector
scale 6-7.
 The project road is located over flat to rolling terrain mean elevation varying between
534 m to 622 m. The entire area normally shows a general slope from right to left.
 The project road intersects a number of rivers, nallas, local streams and canals. The
prominent rivers crossing the project stretch are Doddi river, Kerul river, Bori river,
Dastapur Nallah and Umerga nallah.
 All the drains and River flow from right to left of the project corridor.
 In the study area the major soil met is Black, Coarse Gray and Reddish. The soil is
medium to deep black and of rich quality.

(B) CLIMATE: Characterized by a hot summer and general dryness throughout the year except
during the south-west monsoon season, i.e., June to September.
(C) AMBIENT AIR QUALITY:
 The dryness of the areas, semi arid conditions and loose dust particles along the project
corridor, traffic congestion and dilapidated earthen shoulders are the main reason for the
higher concentration of particulate matter in the air. The other gaseous pollutants
monitored in the ambient air were well within the National Ambient Air Quality Standard
at all the locations.
 There is no significant air polluting industry is located along the project corridor.
(D) WATER RESOURCES:
 The major surface water bodies located in the project corridor include dodi river, Ekruk
lake, water tank at Tamalwadi, and water tank at Km 75.600 in near Singoli village.
 The data analysed revealed that general quality of water in all the locations are good and
the water quality conforms to the Criteria C of Surface water quality as prescribed by the
Central Pollution Control Board. All the measured parameters were observed well within
the prescribed limit of water quality standards
(E) NOISE LEVEL:
 The noise level monitored along the highway at major settlements exceeded the
maximum permissible noise level for residential areas except for the alignment at
proposed Yedshi byepass but were within the permissible level for industrial and
mixed areas.
  The congested urban builtup area experience high noise level due to commercial
activities of the area and traffic congestion.
(II) NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
(A)FORESTS & WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Generally open shrubs are present apart from the agriculture fields along the project stretch. The
Few pockets of reserve forests are located along the project corridor
(B)ROAD SIDE PLANTATION
Mainly single row of tree plantation is observed all along the project road. The predominant tree
species are Neem , Goldmolar and Shisam etc. A total number of 13315 trees of variable girth
class are located within the proposed ROW of the project stretch
(III)SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
(A) LAND USE PATTERN
The land use pattern of the project area is mainly agricultural land followed by
settlements, commercial and industrial area.
(B) AGRICULTURE PATTERN
(C) INDUSTRIES
The project districts have medium scale as well as small-scale industries. Along the project
stretch 6 industrial units have been recorded.
(D) PROTECTED MONUMENTS AND PROPERTIES OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL VALUE
No historical monuments or Archaeological sites are located in the vicinity of the project.

ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

 Since the project is widening and strengthening of already existing road, the potential for
the negative impacts is relatively small as compare to new alignment.
 Most of the negative environmental impacts are related to construction works which are
inevitable.
 The impacts during construction phase are mainly temporary or short term, whereas the
impacts during operation stage will have long term effects.
 Most of these negative environmental effects can be 'design out' at an early stage through
proper engineering designs, which will emphasize the contractors to follow
environmentally friendly construction methodology and by applying proper
environmental safeguard measures at site
IMPACTS DURING PRECONSTRUCTION PHASE:
The environmental impacts associated with the pre construction stages mainly include impacts
due to design and location of the project as well as site preparation for construction. The main
issues involve in the preconstruction stage are:
 Acquisition of land and properties
 Tree felling
 Diversion of forest land,
 Encroachment of water tanks & ponds,
 Acquisition of common property resources,
 Relocation of public utilities etc.
Most of the impacts of preconstruction stage are permanent in nature.
IMPACT DURING CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION PHASE:
During construction period the major environmental issues will be related to
 Dust generation,
 Emission of gaseous emissions,
 Borrow area and quarry operations,
 Pollution due to operation of plants and equipments,
 Contamination of land and soil,
 Contamination of water bodies and public as well as workers health and safety.
These anticipated impacts will mainly temporary and localised in nature and are likely to
persist for short duration till the construction activities are over in a particular area. However
there are some long term adverse impacts due to construction. These impacts however can be
mitigated effectively through proper planning, scheduling and by application of
environmental friendly construction practices.
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME
 Monitoring of environmental quality during construction and operation stages reflects the
success of implementation of the mitigation measures.
 Also it provides a chance to review the suggested measure and improve upon the
measures.
 To ensure the effective implementation of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP), it
is essential that an effective monitoring plan be designed and carried out.
 The environmental monitoring plan covering various performance indicators, frequency
and institutional arrangements for the project in the construction and operation stages has
been formulated for the project.
 Environmental Monitoring of performance indicators will be conducted by the project
authority .
 The monitoring plan has been suggested with performance indicators to be monitored,
locations, frequency and timeframe of monitoring. Periodical monitoring of air, water,
noise quality and survival rate of plantations also has been suggested
ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES
 An analysis of “With” and “Without” Project scenario reveals that the positive impacts
outnumbered the negative impacts due to the proposed development.
 The negative impacts are envisaged only during the construction period which will be
temporary in nature and of short duration. Further mitigation measures will be adopted to
limit the impacts during the construction phase. The proposed expansion will aid in
infrastructure development and will act as a catalyst to boost the economic progress. It
was revealed during discussions with various stakeholders that safety is a major concern
along the existing highway section.
The safety aspect will be enhanced considerably with the provision of
 Service lanes
 Pedestrian crossings
 Street lights
 Additional systematically designed bust stands,
 Rest areas
 Bus bays and truck lay byes
 Service roads
The will ensure smooth traffic, it is envisaged that commercial establishments will revive
their business and this will inturn boost the economic development.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

 Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is the key to ensure effective implementation of
environmental safeguard measures during different stage of the project.
Environmental Management Plan includes
o EMP Implementation Framework
o Supervision monitoring and reporting requirements.

DURING PRECONSTRUCTION STAGE

The responsibility of the implementation of mitigation measures is mainly Project
Implementation Unit of NHAI which is the Project Proponent for the project.
DURING CONSTRUCTION STAGE
The primary responsibility of implementing environmental safeguards measures is with
Concessionaire which will design, construct and own the project till concession period. The
NHAI will be overall responsible for EMP implementation.
A budgetary cost estimated for environmental management activities is Rs. 9.65 crores for the
project, which includes various mitigation costs during preconstruction, construction and
operation stages, environmental enhancement measures, Corporate Social Responsibility as well
as environmental monitoring cost.

CASE STUDY 3
HYDRO ELECTRIC POWER PROJECTS

1. Project Description

Brief Details of the Project and Implementation Activities. The envisaged construction of the
Tehri Dam Project was approved in principle in year 1986, the Government had cleared the
implementation of Tehri Hydro Power Complex, as a joint venture of the GOI and the erstwhile
Government of UttarPradesh. The project has the following features:
(i) A 260.5 M high earth and rock fill Dam, with 4x 250 MW Hydro power plant at
Tehri.
(ii) Tehri Hydro Power Complex (2400 MW), comprises the following components:
(iii) 1. Tehri Dam & Hydro Power Plant (1000 MW)
(iv) 2. Koteshwar Hydro Electric Project (400 MW)
(v) 3. Tehri Pumped Storage Plant (PSP) (1000 MW)

2. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF TEHRI DAM

The Project has identified both positive and negative impacts. Efforts were made to get
full advantage of positive impacts by formulating suitable schemes.

As we know that dam is essentially an artificial wall constructed across a river which
converts a running water ecosystem into a lake type ecosystem. This causes some
changes in basic riverine ecosystem. Therefore, thorough studies were got conducted for
the likely negative impacts of dam and its reservoir, through expert agencies. Mitigating
measures, where necessary, were taken on likely negative impacts.

Probable impacts identified for detailed studies were :

 a. Likely change in the (i) water chemistry, especially with respect to dissolved oxygen
and (ii) turbidity of water.
b. Likely impact on biodiversity, i.e., flora and fauna of the area.
c. Likely obstruction of movements of migrating fish species during breeding season.
d. Rivers carry a lot of sediment, which on construction of a dam, will be locked up
behind the dam wall. The collected silt in the reservoir eats away the capacity of the
reservoir. This impact of reducing the capacity and life of reservoir was studied.
e. Likely impact of water accumulation on the upstream side of the dam, which causes
inundation of land including forest-land.
f. Since 109 villages (full or partial) and Tehri town (full) were affected and the
residents were to vacate their ancestral homes and agricultural fields, a scheme was
prepared, to resettle these people, with the idea to improve their living standard,
keeping their social bonds intact.
g. Likely problem of water-logging and salinity of the land in the command area.

The studies on all the above likely impacts were got conducted through the expert
organisations. The studies included the parameters as mentioned in para 1 above.

3. MITIGATING MEASURES TAKEN ON ASSESSED IMPACTS

Based on the impact assessment studies, various mitigating measures were designed. In
order to mitigate probable impacts following measures/safeguards were taken:

A. Measures for Ecological Impacts

1. Compensatory Afforestation
Forest land of 4193.813 ha. were diverted for construction of Tehri Dam Project
and Koteshwar Project (in the downstream of Tehri Project). This forest-land
included the land used in construction of Project, Project colonies, resettlement
colonies and filling of reservoir. Against this, Project has completed the
compensatory afforestation in an area of 4586.07 ha. in Lalitpur and Jhansi
District. In addition, for 1358.20 ha. forest-land diverted in second phase for
rural resettlement, the compensatory afforestation has been carried out in
2716.40 ha. of degraded forest-land of Khanpur forest range in Haridwar
District.
2. Catchment Area Treatment
In order to reduce soil erosion (for reducing sedimentation in the reservoir), the
Tehri Project had completed the Cathcment Area Treatment (CAT) in the entire
degraded catchment, in areas of ‘High’ and ‘Very High’ erosion class. The total
degraded area treated is 52,204 ha. (including 44,157 ha. of forest land and the
8047 ha. of agricultural land). The CAT works included the works of
afforestation, soil conservation, treatment of agriculture land, farm forestry,
horticulture etc. The main objective of CAT works was to check soil erosion
and resultant siltation in the reservoir.

3. Command Area Development

Command Area Development Plan had been implemented by the Irrigation
Departments of the State Governments of Uttarakhand and U.P. In order to
mitigate the likely problem of water-logging and salinity, the network of field
channels and drains were developed. The canal networks are utilized to irrigate
2.7 lac ha. additional area as well as stabilize existing irrigation area in 6.04 lac
ha.

4. Flora
In CAT works, the species as recommended by Botanical Survey of India (BSI),
based on their flora study of the area, have been planted. A Botanical Garden in
an area of 14.28 ha. has also been established and plantation of special species
coming under submergence has been completed, so as to preserve important
flora of the region.

5. Fauna
Faunal studies were got conducted through Zoological Survey of India (ZSI),
for fauna affected due to formation of reservoir. As per ZSI studies there will
be no adverse impact on mammals, Aves (Birds), Reptiles (Snakes and Lizards),
Ambhibia (Frogs & Toads) and Pisces (Fresh Water Fishes) due to proposed
reservoir except on Tor-Putitora (Mahseer Fish)

As suggested by ZSI, action plan for possible mitigation of Mahseer fish was
framed. The implementation of this action plan was taken up with the National
Research Centre on Cold Water Fisheries (NRCCWF), ICAR, Bhimtal. The
Mahseer Fish Hatchery and fish Farm have been developed and is in operation.
 The faunal study have also pointed that the formation of proposed reservoir with
a massive water exposure on about 42 sq. km., a large number of migratory
birds may be attracted to the area, thus adding to the aesthetic and tourism
aspect of the Project. Therefore, as suggested in the study report, the periphery
of the reservoir have been suitably planted by bushes, shrubs and trees. This
will help not only in the rehabilitation of Aves (Birds), but will also attract other
groups of animals. The bushes, shrubs and undergrowth have therefore been
provided as ideal shelter to snakes and lizards also.

6. Water Quality Maintenance

The water quality modeling study had been carried out, which concluded that no
specific measures are required and there would be no adverse effect on the
water quality due to impoundment. However, the work on water quality
monitoring on Tehri Reservoir, both upstream and downstream is being carried
out at 5 monitoring stations.

The water quality study also concluded that Dissolved Oxygen (D.O.) and
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) in whole of reservoir are expected to remain
within permissible limits desired for drinking water resources.

Another mathematical model study on water circulation concluded that water in

reservoir remains under dynamic circulation throughout the year and does not
remain stagnant.

7. Green Belt
A green Belt have been planned to be created along the rim of the reservoir
between 850 m above MSL and 1050 m above MSL. The idea for developing
the green belt is to check soil erosion and resultant siltation of the reservoir; to
protect and regenerate the vegetation in the rim area; to increase the natural
beauty of the landscape.

8. Impact on Human Health

A comprehensive study of the potential health impacts of Tehri dam was
conducted. National Malaria Eradication Programme (NMEP) and Malaria
Research Centre (MRC) carried out detailed field investigations of the area.
Action-plan for preventive/mitigation measures is being implemented.
 Dust pollution in project area were kept under control by regular sprinkling of
water. Dust pollution levels were also monitored at the project site and habitat
area by conducting the study on the samples so collected.

B. MEASURES FOR SOCIAL IMPACTS

1. Better Quality of Living

In order to achieve the objective of ‘better quality of life’ following steps were
taken through R&R programme. The idea is to ensure that settlers are provided
opportunities to become established and economically self sustaining in shortest
possible period.

a. Urban

i. Better quality of living. Urban population was provided better facilities

like better and wider road network, sewerage system, hospital with
enhanced capacity, stadium and other amenities, scope for expansion,
planned growth.

ii. Larger school buildings with hostel accommodation will enable their
management to enhance their capacities. A larger University campus
has been constructed in addition to a college keeping in view the future
needs of the region.

iii. More employment opportunities due to high tourism potential and

industries likely to come up due to excellent infrastructure available in
NTT and surrounding areas.

iv. 100 economically backward and houseless persons now have free
housing at NTT, of which they would become owners.

b. Rural

i. The all round development of the area would lead to prosperity, better
infrastructure and better quality of life.
 ii. New road network and taped drinking water supply save the time of
people which can be utilized for other works.

iii. Due to the increase in land holding, i.e., against the existing less than 1
acre average rainfed land holding, to the allotted 2 acres well irrigated
and developed land, yield and total income is expected to increase.
iv. Due to payment of House Construction Assistance to PAFs, the PAF
have been able to construct better houses, which has resulted in
improvement in their living standards.

v. Landless agricultural labours have also become owners of 2 acres of

agricultural land and independent houses.

vi. People who will not be shifted (above the reservoir level) shall be
benefited due to Catchment Area Treatment, tourism, fishery
development and horticulture, apart form infrastructural development.

vii. As most resettlement colonies are on important locations/on important

highways, PAFs have opened their shops, which are helping them in
generating more income. Such people are in a position to turn
displacement into an opportunity to get even more richer than they were.

viii. The resettlement sites are located on important routes of Dehradun and
Haridwar districts which helps in adopting self employment works.

2. Employment & Income Generating Schemes

A. Employment

i) For employment in the THDC, preference was given to the dependents

of the project affected families, particularly in the category of workmen
& supervisors, subject to vacancies and their meeting the necessary laid
down qualifications and experience requirements.

ii) Apart from this, the contractors deployed on the Project a sizable work
force form the local area.
 iii) In order to provide gainful employment to the local population, THDC
awarded small value contracts to the local people.

iv) For treatment and soil conservation work in the Catchment Area, the
forest and other concerned departments, have employed more persons.

v) With the construction of the New Tehri Town at a high altitude,

formation of reservoir, better road network etc., it is expected that there
will be an all round development in the area, which will further enhance
the employment opportunities due to setting up of new non-polluting
industries, better tourism opportunities through developmental activities,
which will in turn help in generating indirect employment in commercial
ventures, like boating, transport, vehicle repair shops, business, hotel
industries and several other indirect activities.

vi) With a view to encourage the dispossessed families taking to useful

vocations, like poultry farming, floriculture, pisci-culture, animal
husbandry, handicrafts, khadi work etc. the Government agencies have
taken up various self-employment / income generating schemes.

b. iNCOME GENERATING SCHEMES

Since it was not possible to give direct employment to all unemployed youth
from PAFs in the project. A group was formed in THDC for helping the
resettled families to take advantage of various schemes of Self-employment
and Income Generation being implemented by various Govt. and Semi
Govt. agencies. The group organized various activities for the benefits of
PAPs as under ;

i) Organized awareness camps at Athoorwala and Khand Raiwala so that

PAPs should come forward as rural entrepreneurs. The group invited
the officials of various State/Central Government agencies like Khadi
Village & Industry Commission, State Horticulture & Food
Preservation Deptt., State Sericulture Deptt., State Fisheries Deptt., Lead
bank & Poultry Deptt., etc. During these camps PAPs were given
detailed knowledge about various existing schemes, training activities,
loaning procedure etc.
ii) Being influenced with these awareness programmes PAPs started
showing the interest in various schemes. PAPs interested for
Mushroom cultivation requested the group for organizing training.
Group arranged training in three batches through UP State Horticulture
 & Food Preservations Deptt. Dehradun to make PAPs self-employed by
adopting Mushroom cultivation as a means of Income Generation on
commercial basis.
iii) In order to create additional source of income for PAPs one Khadi
production cum training center was opened by Khadi Village & Industry
Commission (KVIC) and Kshetriya Shri Gandhi Ashram, Dehradun at
resettlement site Athoorwala. About 30 PAPs were trained at this center
on New Model Charkha Units (NMC). The NMC unit alongwith
revolving funds for working capital, has been provided by KVIC,
whereas training expenses and space shed for training was arranged by
the Project.
iv) Training centers for ladies in tailoring and embroidery work were
established at Athoorwala, Raiwala and Pathri Block. The centers have
been strengthened and expanded by providing sewing machines,
Knitting machines, typing machines, multipurpose peeko and fashion
designing machines and raw material.
v) The group was in constant touch with the Block Development Officers
(BDO) of State Government. Thus, the PAPs were benefited by these
development schemes run by the State Government through the BDO.

4. POSITIVE IMPACTS

A. BENEFITS TO NATION / REGION

i) 2400 MW of environment friendly Peaking Power (6532 MU of Annual

Energy) – 1000 MW (3532 MU of Annual Energy) in Stage-I. This is bound to
lead to industrial and agricultural growth in the Northern Region.

ii) 12% power free to home state, apart from Power as per their share, where
distress is caused by setting up the project at the specific site. s

iii) Additional energy form downstream run-off-the river schemes.

iv) Irrigation of 2.7 lakh ha. of new area, besides stabilization of irrigation in
already irrigated 6.0 lakh ha.

v) 300 cusecs (162 million Gallons per day) of water supply to Delhi, which will
meet drinking water need of 4 million people.
 vi) 200 cusecs (108 million gallons per day) of water supply to UP which will meet
drinking water need of about 3 million people.

vii) The project would lead to all round development of the region through better
infrastructure and easy availability of electricity, particularly peak time power.

viii) Flood moderation during monsoon by way of storage of excess water.

ix) Development of pisciculture.

x) Integrated development of the catchment area including afforestation and soil

conservation of 52,204 ha. of severely eroded land.

xi) With the formation of lake, presence of various types of fisheries, water liking
birds and certain species of wild life has been noticed.

B. BENEFITS TO AFFECTED POPULATION

i) Development of Hill Station

For shifting of old Tehri Town a new modern town named as New Tehri Town
(NTT) has been developed at a height of 1550-1850 m. above MSL which is at
height almost similar to that of Mussorrie. This town has all modern facilities.
After the formation of reservoir lake, this town which overlook the lake has
become a beautiful hill station. This will attract tourism.

ii) Better Road Network

Due to construction of Project, roads of the area have been widened and improved
which made communication easier and comfortable. Rishikesh-Chamba-NTT
roads have also been widened and geometry have been improved which has
resulted in reduction of journey time. Similarly, Chamba-Dharasu road which
ultimately leads to Uttarkashi have been constructed with better specifications.
Other roads like N.T.T – Bhagirahtipuram – Tipri – Ghansali have also been
constructed for comfortable journey.
 The bridges namely Zero bridge, Siyansu bridge, Pipaldali bridge have been
made. One more motor bridge (HMV) at Dobra is being Constructed. In
addition, Ferry service at Bhalidiyana is also operational.

iii) Education
 For shifting of educational institutions of Old Tehri Town, larger buildings
with modern facilities were constructed so that more number of students can
be accommodated, while having scope for further expansion in future.
 In most of the educational institutions, Hostel facilities for 860 students have
been provided, though it was not existing in Old Tehri. Thus, more students
coming from the nearby areas will be benefited as NTT is expected to develop
as a nodal center for education in the region.
 Against existing degree college running in Old Tehri Town, a degree college
and a big university campus have been constructed at Badshahithaul which
can accommodate 400 residential students and also the teaching staff.
 In addition, for the students of villages who were studying in Old Tehri, 4
degree colleges have been constructed at project cost. Similarly, against one
Inter College in Old Tehri, one Inter college in N.T.T. and 4 Inter colleges in
villages have been constructed.

iv) Health
 Against 22 bed Hospital of Old Tehri, 75 bed Hospital have been constructed
at New Tehri Town, with modern medical facilities. In addition, 5 numbers
Primary Health Centers with indoor treatment facilities (totaling to 70 beds)
have been constructed at Project cost.
 To provide hygienic conditions, treated water is supplied to houses and a
central sewerage treatment plant have been constructed with a properly
designed network of sewer lines connecting houses and other buildings of the
town.

v) Electrification
For improving electricity distribution system in nearby rural areas, 3 nos. 33 KV
sub-stations have been constructed and network of LT/HT transmission lines have
also been made at project cost.

vi) Drinking Water Facilities

54 numbers drinking water schemes in rural areas and New Tehri town have been
constructed and made operational at Project cost. They shall now be operated and
maintained by respective agencies.
 vii) Shifting of District Head Quarter
With the shifting of district head quarter from Narendra Nagar to New Tehri, a
distance of about 60 km have been reduced for the urban and rural population of
Tehri resulting into saving of time and inconvenience to the public having work at
district level offices.

Besides, Pratap Nagar Tehsil which was functioning from Old Tehri, have been
shifted to Pratap Nagar itself in newly constructed building.

viii) Setting of New Industries

The New Tehri Town is very suitable for setting up of Non-pollutive Industries
due to its better climate and excellent communication facilities. As the power is
now easily available after the construction of dam, more factories are likely to
come up as NTT has excellent infrastructure as well.

ix) Tourism
 The New Tehri Town is a pre-planned hill town with all modern facilities.
Hence, it is expected to develop as a major tourist hill station in near future.
 By creation of lake due to the impoundment of the reservoir of Tehri Dam,
scope for water sports will be there.
 In the master plan, areas have been earmarked for resorts, which are expected
to provide facilities for comfortable stay of tourists.
 Due to wider and improved roads, communication has become easier which is
very important for development of tourism.
 Due to tourism development, Hotel Industry in the area will increase, which
will further help the local people in getting employment.

x) Commercial Centre
New Tehri Town market is developing as a market for adjoining towns/villages in
the region and is expected to come up as a nodal commercial centre in the region
because of its vocational advantage and better infrastructure facilities like roads,
telecommunication and properly designed shopping centre. The shops area is also
larger and made of RCC structure and have greater storage capacities for goods.
MONITORING MECHANISM FOR REHABILITATION
Government of India has constituted a Project Level Monitoring Committee (PLMC) for
conducting field visits to verify the satisfactory completion of various environmental safeguards
stipulated at the time of Project clearance and other specific recommendations accepted by the
Government. Ministry of Environment & Forests, Govt. of India also constituted a High Level
Inter Ministerial Review Committee (IMRC) headed by Secretary, MOEF and including
Secretary, Ministry of Power, Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice, Secretary, Ministry of Water
Resources also Chief Secretary of Uttaranchal and U.P. as Special Invitees, to periodically
review the environment and rehabilitation and resettlement issues associated with the Tehri
Hydro Electric Project and also review the recommendations of the Project Level Monitoring
Committee.

GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM

A Grievance Redressal Cell under the Sub Divisional Magistrate, Tehri, is functioning in the
Rehabilitation Directorate, Uttranchal Government for expeditious disposal of grievances
received from PAFs. Further, Coordination Committee under the Chairmanship of Commissioner
(Garhwal) set up by the State Govt. also redresses the specific cases/demands of the people.

CASE STUDY 4
AIR PORT PROJECTS
Introduction
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a study to identify, predict, evaluate, and
communicate information on the environment of a proposed project and to detail out the
mitigating measures prior to project approval and implementation. The EIA is essentially a
planning mechanisme for preventing environmental problems due to an action. It ensures that the
potential problems are foreseen and addressed at an early stage in the project planning and
design. Thus this will avoid costly mistakes in project implementation, either because of the
environmental damages that are likely to arise during project implementation, or because of
modifications that may be required subsequently in order to make the action environmentally
acceptable. The purpose of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report is to investigate
and assess the principal environmental concerns associated with the proposed airport. The scope
of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study covers both the construction phase and the
operational stage of the airport, investigating and analyzing
The effects of aircraft noise on institutional and residential areas, particularly at night Increased
traffic congestion in the airport approaches Fire hazards Ambient air quality Surface water
quality Hydrogeology Impact on flora and fauna Social perception, and Emergency
preparedness.
This environmental impact assessment (EIA) has been prepared as an evaluation and
condensation of a full environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the proposed airport in the
capital city, Kolkata situated in the developing country, India prepared for the government by the
consulting group, following the developing country , India government’s guidelines and the
methodologies described in Environmental Assessment Requirements and Environmental
Review Procedures and the Environmental Guidelines for Selected Infrastructure Projects.
The guideline is based on
(i) the EIA,
(ii) the airport project feasibility study
(iii) field visits to the airport project site and local government capital, and,
(iv) discussions with local government and pertinent National Government
officials with environmental responsibilities.
The methods used to carry out the EIA include:
(i) review of available literature,
(ii) meetings with National and local government officials
(iii) site visits to the capital city of the proposed airport and surrounding areas,
(iv) discussions with inhabitants near the site,
(v) ambient noise and air quality and surface water quality sampling and testing in the field and
in the laboratory, and
(vi) application of professional knowledge and experience.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT
The project consists of the design, financing, construction, and operation of a new airport. The
proposed new airport will be located in the capital city of the developing country, which is in
Kolkata in India.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
A study is conducted to identify the ambient air quality in the selected area. The daytime noise in
the vicinity of the site is also surveyed. Temperature range in the proposed area is also identified.
It is good to have no forests near the project site as there will not be any endangered species of
flora and fauna. The population at the site has to be relocated. Besides, the water supply has to be
good and the sewerage system is better to be connected to the drainage system. Finally a good
source of electric power is vital.
ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
Environmental impacts are anticipated during both the construction stage and the operational
stage. Construction Stage The daily water estimated requirement for the project should not affect
the supply of water to the residents in the capital city. Earthwork, soil excavation, ground
preparation, and concreting activities will further increase the TSP level. However, a
comprehensive system of netting to be used as well as constant daily watering of the ground will
mitigate the impact. Solid waste generated from the construction activities will be disposed of
daily by garbage trucks. Employment opportunities and other sources of income for the residents
of the capital city will be generated by the project. Operational Stage No significant increase in
the level of TSP of the air quality within the vicinity will be generated during operation.
Nevertheless, the terminal building will be fully air-conditioned and equipped with dust filtration
system which that will be regularly checked and cleaned. The additional aircraft movements will
increase the noise level. However, flights are normally scheduled during daytime to minimize
noise disruption to settlements relatively near the airport. No breach of acceptable airport noise
standards will take place. Further, the flight path of aircraft will not be over densely populated
areas. The commercial operation of the airport may cause a mild migration of potential job
seekers to the capital city, since jobs will be created by the project.
ALTERNATIVES
If the airport is not constructed there would be no effects, either positive or negative, on physical
environmental factors. In addition, no adverse impact would be suffered by the adjoining city
institutions. There would be, however, other significant sociological and economic losses to the
city. The loss of this facility would inhibit terminal development and the economic and ensuing
sociological gains, and would conflict directly with established, approved master plans and goals.
The international passenger congestion would restrict the growth of terminal activities. Even
without the proposed Project, air pollution and noise levels will increase due to vehicular
emissions, heavy traffic flow, and increase in domestic air flights.
COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
Project costs include (i) civil works, (ii) other construction, (iii) equipment and its installation,
and (iv) consulting engineering design and supervision. These Project costs also include the cost
of mitigating all negative environmental impacts during construction and into the operating
phase, which amounts to $400,000, or about 0.6 percent of the total Project base cost.For the cost
item, the estimated total Project cost of $504 million was used. The total Project cost includes the
total cost of relocation of PAF facilities, the schools, church, and Community center, estimated at
$7 million; the cost of the Fire Prevention Plan; the cost of sewerage and drainage systems,
estimated at $2 million; and such other costs as provision of a carpark building ($21 million) and
road access improvements. In terms of the benefit, the stream of cashflow after debt servicing but
before tax payments (because tax payments are considered as one of the benefits) was used. The
internal rate of return and net present value are calculated as 21 percent and $506.7 million,
respectively. Facilities will also be temporarily subjected to nuisances associated with major
construction, including increased noise levels, dust, heavier traffic on Andrew Avenue, and other
similar effects. On a permanent basis, the traffic and noise from terminal activities will cause
some disturbances. The disturbances will depend on the arrival and departure of various types of
aircraft. There will be some direct costs related to the relocation of affected residences and
facilities. However, the airport project will result in several beneficial impacts on both a
temporary and a permanent basis.
INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM
During the whole airport project cycle, monitoring of noise and of air and water quality
parameters will be undertaken regularly and continuously. Regular monitoring will be
undertaken to assess the effectiveness and integrity of the mitigating measures being
implemented to minimize the adverse impacts of the airport project activities. Monitoring will
also cover (i) performance of the facility after construction, (ii) verification of proper effluent
disposal at the facility, (iii) yearly physical testing of the airport project area, (iv) proper solid
waste disposal, and (v) traffic management.
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
A social perception survey will be conducted for the airport project by a group of social
scientists. The survey will be undertaken among the residents of the developing country’s capital
city, site of the proposed airport project. The social perception survey will be carried out by
taking a random sample of the residents of the capital city with the primary objectives of
ascertaining awareness of the proposed airport project, eliciting from the interviewees their
acceptance or non-acceptance of the airport constuction, and identifying what in their own
judgment are its positive and negative effects. It is planned that, during the airport project
implementation, the airport project administration, in coordination with the local government,
will keep related agencies and the local population near the airport informed about the airport
project, and will request their views as the project progresses. Based on consultations with the
local government and local residents, the airport construction will begin.
CONCLUSIONS
The proposed airport project will definitely be to public advantage. The major benefit will be
socioeconomic. The primary long-range effects on the physical environment include the
relocation of several houses due to road widening, and several institutions. Finally, the residents
of the capital city will be subjected to both temporary and permanent increases in noise level,
which, however, in terms of level, time of occurrence, and distribution will not cause a major
impact. The construction of the proposed airport will assure optimum use of a section of unused
land.
Although it will result in a few limited temporary environmental adverse effects, the life
expectancy of the terminal’s productivity will prove profitable to society on both a regional and
local basis.
The proposed airport development will have no significantly adverse impacts on the surrounding
environment. The construction, while involving soil improvement and considerable earthwork
will, use proven construction techniques and conventional earthwork methods. Potentially minor
adverse impacts can readily be avoided by good site management and construction practices,
particularly related to drainage system design. A simple monitoring program is needed to cover
the construction phase and the first three years of operation. This will be prepared during the
design phase of the project by the engineering consultants. It will then be implemented during
the airport project construction by the administration assisted by the engineering consultants, and
by the staff operating the airport during airport operation. The monitoring program will also be
supervised.
This report has been produced to inform and facilitate the request for a Environmental Impact
Assessment Regulations. In accordance with the EIA regulations, only those issues which give
rise to potential significant environmental effects need to be assessed in detail within the airport
project. Those matters which have been identified as potentially giving rise to significant
environmental effects include:
Surface transport and access. Air and ground noise. Air quality. Socio-economics. Waste.

Impacts of airport project