003 Draft-Eia Granite Report

Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Cluster Mines of Granite Building Stone
Quarry over an Extent of 09447 Ha at Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala
E I
State. NVIRONMENTAL MPACT SSESSMENT FOR THE A
PROPOSED GRANITE BUILDING STONE QUARRY
[Pick the date]
OVER AN EXTENT OF 0.9447 HA AT THRIKKUR VILLAGE, MUKUNDAPURAM TALUK,
THRISSUR DISTRICT, KERALA STATE
PROJECT PROPONENT
SAJEEVKUMAR
Project termed under Schedule of 1(a) Mining of Minerals as per EIA Notification 2006
EIA Consultant
PROJECT DETAILS
Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Granite Building
Name of Project Stone Quarry over an Extent of 0.9447 Ha at Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram
Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State
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Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Granite Building Stone Quarry over an
Extent of 0.9447 Ha at Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State.
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individual section.
1 July 2022
DECLARATION BY EIA CONSULTANT
This EIA report has been prepared by ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited in line with EIA
Notification, dated 14th September 2006, seeking prior Environmental Clearance from the Ministry
of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, New Delhi.
This work has been undertaken in accordance with ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System
with all reasonable skill, care and diligence within the terms of the contract with the client,
incorporating our General Terms & Conditions of Business and taking account of the resources
devoted to it by agreement with the client.
We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside the scope
of the above.
Further, this report is confidential to the client and the use of this report by unauthorized third
parties without written authorization from ABC Techno Labs shall be at their own risk.
For and on behalf of ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited

Approved by : G.Murugesh
Signature :
Designation : Chairman & Managing Director
Date : 09th September 2020
2 July 2022
DISCLOSURE AS PER NABET /QCI

Details as per Schedule of EIA Notification 2006, as amended till date
Name of Publication Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Granite Building
Stone Quarry over an Extent of 0.9447 Ha at Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram
Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State
Schedule as per EIA 1(a)

notification 2006
Category B
NABET Sector No. 1 - Mining of minerals including opencast / underground mining
Declaration by experts contributing to the Environmental Impact Assessment Report

for Proposed Cluster Granite Building Stone Quarry over an Extent of 0.9447 Ha at
Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State.
I, hereby, certify that I was a part of the EIA team in the following capacity that developed the
above EIA/EMP.
EIA Coordinator
Name : Dr. R K Jayaseelan
Signature :
Period of involvement : November 2019– Till date
Contact information : abc@abctechnolab.com
FUNCTIONAL AREA EXPERTS:

S. Functional
Name of the Expert/s Involvement (Period) Signature & Date
No. Areas
1 AP Haneesh K jR April 2022– Till date
2 HG Mr.P.V.R.S.Surendra November 2019– Till date
3 GEO Mr.M.S.Bhaskar November 2019– Till date

4 AQ November 2019– Till date
Mrs.K.Vijayalakshmi
5 RH November 2019– Till date
6 NV Mr. Haneesh K R April 2022– Till date
7 SHW Mrs. S.Sathya November 2019– Till date
8 EB Abhik Saha November 2019– Till date
9 LU Dr. R.K.Jayaseelan November 2019– Till date
10 SC R.Rajendran November 2019– Till date
11 SE Sushil Meshram November 2019– Till date
12 WP Mr. Haneesh K R November 2019– Till date
3 July 2022
Declaration by the head of the Accredited Consultant Organization
I, Mr. G. Murugesh, hereby confirm that the above mentioned experts prepared the EIA/EMP
Report for the Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report of Proposed Granite Building Stone
Quarry over an Extent of 0.9447 Ha at Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District,
Kerala State. I also confirm that ABC Techno Labs India Pvt. Ltd. shall be fully accountable for any
misleading information mentioned in this statement.
Signature :
Name : Mr. G. Murugesh
Designation : Chairman & Managing Director
Name of the EIA Consultant ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited
Organization:
NABET Certificate No. & Issue NABET/EIA/1922/RA0155 date 02nd March 2020
Date:
4 July 2022
5 July 2022
6 July 2022
Table of Content
1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 16
1.1 Project Background .................................................................................................. 16
1.2 Identification of Project & Project Proponent ........................................................... 16
1.2.1 Identification of Project ........................................................................................ 16
1.2.2 Identification of Project Proponent ....................................................................... 16
1.2.3 Overview of the Project ........................................................................................ 17
1.2.4 Nature of the Project ............................................................................................ 18
1.2.5 Location of the Project .......................................................................................... 18
1.2.6 Purpose of the Report ........................................................................................... 19
1.2.7 Importance to the country and Region.................................................................. 20
1.2.8 Supply and demand details ................................................................................... 20
1.3 Objectives of the Study............................................................................................. 20

1.4 Methodology adopted for the Study......................................................................... 21
1.5 Structure of EIA Report ............................................................................................. 21
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................... 23
2.1 ABOUT THE PROJECT ................................................................................................ 23
2.1.1 Location of the Project: ......................................................................................... 23
2.2 Size Or Magnitude of Operation ............................................................................... 27

2.2.1 Land Requirement ................................................................................................ 27
2.3 Topography of the Project Site ................................................................................. 27

2.4 Connectivity ............................................................................................................. 28
2.5 Mine Drainage .......................................................................................................... 28
2.6 Geology of the Region .............................................................................................. 28
2.6.1 Geology of the Project site .................................................................................. 29
2.7 Technology & Process Description ............................................................................ 29

2.7.1 Technology ........................................................................................................... 29
2.7.2 Method of Mining ................................................................................................. 30
2.7.3 Method of Estimation of Reserve .......................................................................... 31
2.7.4 Extent of Mechanization ....................................................................................... 34
2.7.5 Stacking of minerals and disposal of waste ........................................................... 35
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2.7.6 Conceptual Mining plan ........................................................................................ 35
2.7.7 Manpower Requirement ....................................................................................... 35
2.7.8 Power Requirement .............................................................................................. 36
2.7.9 Water requirement ............................................................................................... 36
2.7.10 Sewerage System .................................................................................................. 37
2.7.11 Reclamation and Rehabilitation ............................................................................ 37
2.7.12 Phased Programme for planting Trees .................................................................. 37
2.8 WELFARE MEASURES ................................................................................................ 38

2.8.1 Drinking Water...................................................................................................... 38
2.8.2 Sanitary Facilities .................................................................................................. 38
2.8.3 First aid facility ...................................................................................................... 38
2.8.4 Labour Health ....................................................................................................... 38
2.8.5 Precautionary safety measures to the labourers. .................................................. 38
2.9 Project Cost .............................................................................................................. 38

3 DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENT........................................................................................ 40
3.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 40
3.2 SCOPE OF BASELINE STUDY ...................................................................................... 40
3.3 Administrative Setup ................................................................................................ 42
3.4 Metrology And Climate............................................................................................. 42
3.4.1 Climatic Condition ................................................................................................. 42
3.4.2 Regional Metrology............................................................................................... 42
3.4.3 Site Specific Meteorology...................................................................................... 43
3.5 Geomorphology ....................................................................................................... 44

3.6 LAND ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................... 45
3.6.1 Land Use/ Land Cover ........................................................................................... 45
3.6.2 Generation of Thematic Layers ............................................................................. 45
3.6.3 Land use / Land cover map (LU/LC) ....................................................................... 45
3.6.4 Inferenc ................................................................................................................ 47
3.6.5 Study Area Land Use / Land Cover Classification System ....................................... 47
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3.7 Air Environment ....................................................................................................... 48

3.7.1 Selection of Sampling Locations ............................................................................ 48
3.7.2 Parameters for Sampling ....................................................................................... 49
3.7.3 Instruments Used For Sampling ............................................................................ 49
3.7.4 Sampling and Analytical Techniques ..................................................................... 49
3.7.5 Results .................................................................................................................. 50
3.8 Noise Environment ................................................................................................... 50

3.8.1 Identification of Sampling Locations ..................................................................... 51
3.8.2 Instrument used for Sampling ............................................................................... 51
3.8.3 Method of Monitoring .......................................................................................... 51
3.8.4 Results .................................................................................................................. 52
3.8.5 Observations ......................................................................................................... 53
3.9 Water Environment .................................................................................................. 53

3.9.1 Sampling Locations ............................................................................................... 53
3.9.2 Results .................................................................................................................. 58
3.10 Soil Environment ...................................................................................................... 58

3.10.1 Soil Profile of District............................................................................................. 58
3.10.2 Soil analysis ........................................................................................................... 59
3.10.3 Results .................................................................................................................. 59
3.10.4 Observation .......................................................................................................... 61
3.11 Ecological Environment ............................................................................................ 62

3.11.1 Methodology Adopted for the Study ..................................................................... 63
3.11.2 Flora ..................................................................................................................... 65
3.11.3 Fauna ................................................................................................................ 65
3.12 Socioeconomic Environment .................................................................................... 66

3.12.1 Methodology ........................................................................................................ 66
3.12.2 Demographic Structure ......................................................................................... 67
3.12.3 Socio-economic Structure ..................................................................................... 68
4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ........................... 70
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4.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 70

4.2 Objectives Of Eia ...................................................................................................... 70
4.3 Source Of Pollution................................................................................................... 70
4.3.1 Impact on Climate ............................................................................................... 73
4.3.2 Land Environment ................................................................................................. 73
4.3.3 Air Environment .................................................................................................... 74
4.3.4 Impacts due to Transportation .............................................................................. 77
4.3.5 Water Environment .............................................................................................. 78
4.3.6 Impact of Noise ..................................................................................................... 79
4.3.7 Impact of Vibration ............................................................................................... 83
4.3.8 Impact on Human Settlement ............................................................................... 84
4.3.9 Biological Environment ......................................................................................... 84
4.3.10 Green Belt Development ....................................................................................... 87
4.3.11 Impacts on Occupational Health Due to mining Operations .................................. 87
4.3.12 Impacts on Social Environment ............................................................................. 88
4.3.13 Corporate Environmental Responsibility ............................................................... 89
5 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES ............................................................................................... 90

5.1 Alternate Technology ............................................................................................... 90
5.2 Method of mining ..................................................................................................... 90
5.2.1 Opencast Method ................................................................................................. 90
5.2.2 Alternate Site ........................................................................................................ 90
6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME.................................................................. 91

6.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 91
6.2 Implementation of Schedule .................................................................................... 91
6.3 Monitoring Schedules for Various Environmental Parameters.................................. 91
6.4 Post Project Environmental Mo n i to r i ng ................................................................ 91
6.5 Occupational Health and Safety ............................................................................... 92
7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES ......................................................................................................... 94
7.1 Risk Identification & Management ......................................................................... 94
7.2 Identification of Hazards in Open Cast Mining....................................................... 95
7.2.1 Drilling .................................................................................................................. 95
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7.2.2 Blasting ................................................................................................................ 95
7.2.3 over burden Handling .......................................................................................... 96
7.2.4 Heavy Machinery ................................................................................................. 96
7.2.5 Safety Measures at the Mine site ....................................................................... 97
7.3 Disaster Management Plan ..................................................................................... 97

7.3.1 Emergency Organization (EO) ............................................................................. 98
7.3.2 Emergency Communication (EC) ......................................................................... 98
7.3.3 Emergency Services ............................................................................................. 98
7.4 Progressive Quarry Closure Plan............................................................................. 99

7.4.1 Solid waste Management .................................................................................... 99
8 PROJECT BENEFITS............................................................................................................ 101

8.1 General .................................................................................................................. 101
8.2 Improvement in physical infrastructure .................................................................. 101
8.3 Infrastructure for environmental protection........................................................... 101
8.4 Ecological Benefits .................................................................................................. 102
8.5 Improve socio-economic Conditions ....................................................................... 102
9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ........................................................................... 103
9.1 Environmental Management Plan .......................................................................... 103
9.2 Emission Source Identification ................................................................................ 103
9.3 Air Quality Management ........................................................................................ 103
9.3.1 Measures for dust suppression ......................................................................... 103
9.3.2 Emissions from Material Handling .................................................................... 103
9.3.3 Haulage .............................................................................................................. 104
9.4 Noise Pollution Control ........................................................................................... 104

9.5 Water Pollution Control Measures ......................................................................... 105
9.5.1 Surface Water .................................................................................................... 105
9.5.2 Mine Drainage Water ........................................................................................ 105
9.6 Land Environment .................................................................................................. 105

9.7 Solid Waste Management....................................................................................... 105
9.7.1 Stabilization of Dumps ........................................................................................ 106
9.7.2 Measures to be adopted for Solid Wastes Management ................................. 106
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9.8 Biological Environment ........................................................................................... 106

9.8.1 Granite Building Stone Conservation and Development ...................................... 107
9.8.2 Afforestation Plan ............................................................................................... 107
9.8.3 Occupational Health & Safety Measures ............................................................. 107
9.9 Socio-Economic Benefits ........................................................................................ 107

9.9.1 Employment potential ....................................................................................... 108
9.9.2 Care and Maintenance during Temporary Discontinuance .................................. 108
9.9.3 Safety and Security ............................................................................................ 108
9.10 Budget for Environmental Protection ..................................................................... 113

9.10.1 Environment Policy ............................................................................................. 113
10 SUMMARY & CONCLUSION ............................................................................................ 116

10.1 Background ............................................................................................................ 116
10.2 Management Commitment .................................................................................... 118
10.3 Environmental Sensitive Areas ............................................................................... 118
10.4 Summary Of The Magnitude Of Operation .......................................................... 118
10.5 Land Requirement .................................................................................................. 120
10.6 Water Requirement ................................................................................................ 121
10.7 Power & Fuel Requirement ..................................................................................... 121
10.8 Manpower Requirement ........................................................................................ 121
10.9 Solid Waste Generation & Management ................................................................ 122
10.10 Sewerage System ................................................................................................... 122
10.11 Reclamation and Rehabilitation .............................................................................. 122
10.12 Analysis Of Alternative Sites Considered................................................................. 122
10.13 Project Cost ............................................................................................................ 122
10.14 Baseline Study ........................................................................................................ 122
10.14.1 Meteorological Environment ........................................................................... 122
10.14.2 Ambient Air Quality ......................................................................................... 123
10.14.3 Noise Environment .......................................................................................... 123
10.14.4 Water Environment ......................................................................................... 123
10.15 Biological Environment ........................................................................................... 124

10.15.1 Socio Economic Environment .......................................................................... 125
10.16 Infrastructure Resources ........................................................................................ 126
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10.17 Economic Attributes ............................................................................................... 126

10.18 Anticipated Environmental Impacts ........................................................................ 127
10.19 Environmental Monitoring Program ....................................................................... 128
10.20 Green Belt Development ........................................................................................ 128
10.21 Disaster Management Plan ..................................................................................... 128
10.22 Corporate Environmental Responsibility ................................................................. 128
10.23 Benefits of the Proposed Project ............................................................................ 128
11 . DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANT ........................................................................................ 130
11.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 130
11.2 Services of ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited .................................................. 130
11.3 Sectors Accredited By Nabet .................................................................................. 131
11.4 Study Team ............................................................................................................ 132
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1-1: Details of the Project Proponent ................................................................................ 17

Table 1-2: Details of the Mining Lease Area ................................................................................ 17
Table 1-3: Geographical coordinates of mine lease areas ........................................................... 18
Table 1-4 : Production Details .................................................................................................... 18
Table 1-5: Latitude and Longitude of the Site ............................................................................. 19
Table 2-1 Project Summary & Salient Features within 15km radius of the lease area boundary . 25
Table 2-2:Quarry Land details .................................................................................................... 27
Table 2-3: Rock Formations ........................................................................................................ 29
Table 2-4 Geology of the Project Site ......................................................................................... 29
Table 2-5: Proposed Control Blasting Parameters....................................................................... 31
Table 2-6: Proposed Control Blasting Parameters....................................................................... 31
Table 2-7: Type of Explosives...................................................................................................... 31
Table 2-8: Estimation of Geological Reserves as Per Cross Sectional Method ............................. 32
Table 2-9: Year wise Development ............................................................................................. 32
Table 2-10: Present and Post Mining Land Use ........................................................................... 33
Table 2-11: Details of Drilling Machine ....................................................................................... 34
Table 2-12: Details of Loading Equipment .................................................................................. 34
Table 2-13: Details of Transport Equipment ............................................................................... 34
Table 2-14: Details of Ultimate Pit .............................................................................................. 35
13 July 2022
Table 2-15: Man Power Requirement ......................................................................................... 36

Table 2-16: Water Requirement ................................................................................................. 36
Table 2-17: Phased Programme for planting Trees ..................................................................... 37
Table 2-18: Land Cost for the proponents .................................................................................. 38
Table 3-1 Environmental Attributes............................................................................................ 40
Table 3-2 Frequency and Monitoring Methodology ................................................................... 41
Table 3-3 Site specific Weather Report for the Study period ...................................................... 43
Table 3-4 Site specific Weather Report for the Study period ...................................................... 48
Table 3-5: Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Locations ................................................................. 49
Table 3-6: Analytical Methods for Analysis of Ambient Air Quality Parameters (NAAQS) ............ 50
Table 3-7: Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Results ..................................................................... 50
Table 3-8: Noise Quality Monitoring Stations ............................................................................. 51
Table 3-9:Ambient Noise Level Results ....................................................................................... 52
Table 3-10: Water monitoring Sampling locations ...................................................................... 53
Table 3-11: Water Quality Monitoring Results ............................................................................ 55
Table 3-12: Surface Water Results .............................................................................................. 57
Table 3-13: Soil Quality Results .................................................................................................. 60
Table 3-14: Standard Soil Classification ...................................................................................... 61
Table 3-15: List of flora reported/observed in the study area ..................................................... 65
Table 3-16: List of Fauna Reported/Observed in the Study area ................................................. 65
Table 3-17: Summary of Demographic Structure in Study Area .................................................. 68
Table 4-1 Impact Prediction Matrix for Proposed Project Activities ............................................ 72
Table 4-2: Sources of air pollution at quarry ............................................................................... 74
Table 4-3: Input Details .............................................................................................................. 76
Table 4-4: Emission Details ......................................................................................................... 76
Table 4-5: Fugitive dust control in mine ..................................................................................... 77
Table 4-6: Dust Control Measures in Quarry ............................................................................... 77
Table 4-7: Noise sources in the study area*................................................................................ 80
Table 4-8: Permissible Exposure in Cases of Continuous Noise (OSHA, Govt. of India) .......... 81
Table 4-9: Impacts on Biodiversity ............................................................................................ 84
Table 4-10:Mitigation for occupational health and safety ....................................................... 87
Table 6-1 Implementation of Schedule ....................................................................................... 91
Table 6-2 Post Project Environmental Monitoring Program ........................................................ 92
14 July 2022
Table 9-1: Table Generation of noise level at mine site ......................................................... 104
Table 9-2: Environmental Management Plan ............................................................................ 109
Table 9-3 Environmental Management Cost .......................................................................... 113
Table 10-1: Project Summary & Salient Features within 10Kms radius of the Project Boundary 116
Table 10-2: Quarry Land details ................................................................................................ 119
Table 10-3: Summary of Geological Reserves ........................................................................... 119
Table 10-4: Summary of Mineable Reserves ............................................................................. 119
Table 10-5: Summary of Development details of year wise ...................................................... 119
Table 10-6: Location of the Project ........................................................................................... 120
Table 10-7: Land Use Pattern of Quarry Area ........................................................................... 120
Table 10-8: Water Requirement ............................................................................................... 121
Table 10-9: Man Power Requirement ....................................................................................... 121
Table 10-10: Land Cost for the project. .................................................................................... 122
Table 10-11:Summary of Demographic Structure in Thrissur District ........................................ 125
Table 10-12: Phased Programming of Trees ............................................................................. 128
15 July 2022
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND

Kerala is rich in minor mineral resources, which include china clay, calcite, dolomite,
dunite/pyroxenite, felspar, fireclay, gypsum, rough stone, sand stone, quartz etc,. This report
discussing about the cluster mine comprehensive management plan for mitigation/abatement of
adverse environmental impact and enhancement of beneficial impacts due to cluster mining. This
report has been designed within the framework of various legislative and regulatory requirements
on environmental and socio-economic aspects.
The proposed Granite Building Stone mines over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in S.F. No. 66 of
Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala of private land, which is not fit for
vegetation/cultivation. The Proposed Cluster of Granite Building Stone mines has been formed
with the distance between the peripheries of one lease to the other is less than 500 meters from
the periphery of other lease in a homogeneous mineral area. Hence the project has been come
under clusteer with other mines. As per precise area communication letter given to individual
quarry by Geologist, Mining and Geology Department, Thrissur. There are 2 mines existing in the
500m radius, out of which one is already existing & under operation. The proposed, now one more
quarry is yet to be started its application already in process since June 2019. Hence, the EIA report
is prepared for the proposed mining area, the impact due to the previously existing 1 mines and 1
crushers which are under operation are covered in the baseline study.
The mining plan has been granted for a period of 5 years by Geologist, Mining and Geology
Department, Thrissur. The approved mining plan and the letter of intent of proposed building
stone mines are enclosed as Annexure IX.
1.2 IDENTIFICATION OF PROJECT & PROJECT PROPONENT
1.2.1 Identification of Project
The project Granite Building Stone mines over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey No. 66 of
Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala. The Mine wise details of the
proposed 9 cluster mines are as follows:
1.2.2 Identification of Project Proponent
Mr. Sajeevkumar (Applicant) is the resident of Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur
District, Kerala, is proposed to operate the Building Stone Quarry, at Survey. Nos. 66 in Thrikkur
Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala on permit basis. Further, as per the EIA
notification 2006, it was a mandate to obtain the Environment Clearance for an area less than 5.00
16 July 2022
ha. In view of this, applicant wanted to operate the building stone quarry in a very systematic and
scientific manner, so he applied for the grant of Building Stone Quarry lease in the Survey. Nos. 66
on July 2019. Mr. Sajeevkumar is the Managing Partner of Thrikkur Granites and he is the
authorized signatory to submit application to statutory authorities like Department of Mining &
Geology, SEIAA and to receive Environmental Clearance from SEIAA, Kerala, for all the legal,
statutory, and operation purpose. Copy of the mining plan is annexed with this report. The said
Survey No. belongs to private property which is in the name of other than applicant. Land owners
have given their consent / NOC to the applicant for the operation of quarry, a copy of the same is
enclosed as part of the mining plan. The land documents such as Tax paid receipt, Possession
certificate, village / block map showing the applied area are also the part of Mining Plan.
Table 1-1: Details of the Project Proponent
Ownership
Name of the Survey Extent
Address/ Email ID/ Contact No. Taluk/District of
Proponent No./Village (ha)
Occupancy
Meluveettil House, Thrikkur P. Mukundapuram/
O., Thrissur Thrissur
thrikkurgranitesec@gmail.com 66/ 0.9447 Private

Sajeevkumar
thrikkurgranitesec20@gmail.com Thrikkur Ha Land
Phone Number: +91-

9947385119
1.2.3 Overview of the Project

The area lies in the north latitude of 10° 27'51.97"N and eastern longitude of 76° 16' 55.32” E. The
area is marked in the Survey of India (SoI) Topo sheet No. 58 B/07. The Granite Building Stone
quarrying operation is proposed to carry out by opencast semi mechanized mining with 5m vertical
bench height with a bench width of 5m has been proposed. The mine lease area falls in the
Government Land and the details of ML area are given in Table 1-1. The geographical coordinates
of the mine lease areas are given in Table 1-2.
Table 1-2: Details of the Mining Lease Area
Ownership
District/ Extent
Village Taluk S.F. No. of
State (ha)
Occupancy
Private
Thrissur/Kerala Thrikkur Mukundapuram 66 0.9447 Ha
Land
17 July 2022
Table 1-3: Geographical coordinates of mine lease areas

S.No Name of the Proponent Geographical Coordinates
Thrikkur Granites, Sajeevkumar 10° 27'51.97"N to 76° 16' 55.32” E
Thattil Grantes 12°39'31T.24"N to 77°57'55.19"E
The proposed project is a cluster of 2 granite building stone mines involving the following project
proponents for which the study has been carried out.
Table 1-4 : Production Details
Production capacity Life of Mine
S.No Name of the Proponent Area (ha)
(in m3) per year (Yrs)
1. Thrikkur Granites, Sajeevkumar 2,04,326 0.9447 5
2. Thattil Grantes 3,01,475 2.23.0 10
Total 33,99,576.059 25.98
1.2.4 Nature of the Project

The proposed project is production of granite building stone in the mine lease area with the total
extent of lease hold area is 0.9447 Ha located Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur
District, Kerala State. The project pertains to mining of dimensional stone with peak yearly
production capacity is about 54,625 MTs/Annum.
1.2.5 Location of the Project
The proposed Granite Building Stone mines over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey No. 66
of Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala. The area lies in the north
latitude of 10° 27'51.97"N and eastern longitude of 76° 16' 55.32” E. Google imagery of the project
is shown in Figure 1.1.
The project is situated at a distance of about 129 m (N) away from Marathakkara Kallur Road and
2.64 Km (E) away from NH 544 (Salem-Kochi Highway) and about 9.5 Km (SE) from Thrissur Town
in South eastern side. The nearest Railway stations Ollur Railway station which is about 6.3 Km
North West. This project site is having good connectivity.
18 July 2022
Figure 1-1: Google Imagery of the lease area boundary
Table 1-5: Latitude and Longitude of the Site

10°27'51.97"N to 10°27'55.25"N
Thrikkur Granites
76°16'55.32"E to 76°16'58.94"E
10°27'58.28"N to 10°28'6.90"N
Thattil Granites
76°16'51.42"E to 76°16'45.13"E
1.2.6 Purpose of the Report
As per Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, dated 14th September 2006 and 14.08.2018
and its subsequent amendments from time to time, this project falls under “1(a) Mining of
Minerals. As this is a cluster mine category and total extent of lease area is higher than 5 ha it
categorized as ‘B1’ and green field. Hence, EIA, EMP along with Public Hearing has to be conducted
for obtaining Environmental Clearance (EC) from State Environmental Impact Assessment
Authority. In order to assess the environmental impacts due to the proposed project,
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report has been prepared.
Submitted individual ToR applications for this Granite Building Stone mines to SEAC, Kerala, for
obtaining approved Terms of Reference (ToR) and subsequently presented before SEAC
committee and got approved TOR from SEAC, Kerala wide minutes of the meeting held on 25 th,
26th and 1st May 2022. With reference to the Minutes of the Meeting, the committee
recommended to prepare the combined EIA report for cluster under Category B1 as per the latest
amendments to the EIA Notification, 2006 vise S.O. 141 (E) dated 15.01.2016 & S.O. 2269 (E) dated
01.07.2016.
As per the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification dated 14 th September 2006 and its
19 July 2022
subsequent amendments and Supreme Court order February 27, 2012, the proposed cluster
mining project falls under ‘Category B1’, which requires Environmental Clearance from the State
Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). The project proponent as part of the
compliance from SEIAA has appointed Environmental Consultants “ABC Techno Labs India Private
Limited, Chennai” as who are accredited by National Accreditation Board for Education and
Training (NABET), Quality Council of India (QCI), New Delhi.
1.2.7 Importance to the country and Region
The Rough Stone from the mine is not meant for captive use. The rough stone minerals will be sold
to the domestic needy crushers. The main consumers of rough stone are in the field of
construction like Concrete block, road pavement, and railroad ballast, water treatment in the
filtration process and other infrastructure development project for public and private
development project.
This mining project is beneficial to the localities as the economy of this region was earlier
dependent on mainly rain fed agriculture, which in recent decades started diversification with
intensification of mining activities in surrounding areas without causing degradation to agriculture
sector, by employment facilities apart from agriculture which has raised the economic status of
nearby villages. The mining activities will increase better employment opportunities. Average
income level which is the indicator of socio- economic status of house hold is expected to increase
with greater dependency on mining industry. It is expected that in a better environment, people
will take help of banking and other saving systems which will further uplift the economic standard.
1.2.8 Supply and demand details
Considering the demand of rough stone which is insufficient availability in the area, it
is very much essential to have rough stone mining projects to sustain in construction field and to
provide employment opportunities to the locals.
1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The EIA/ EMP study is a planning tool to confirm the environmental acceptability, in addition to
the statutory requirements. This report presents the results of the EIA process, which is intended
to:
 To ensure environmental considerations which are explicitly addressed and incorporated
into the development decision-making process.
 To anticipate and avoid, minimize or offset the adverse significant biophysical, social and
other relevant effects of the above project proposal.
 To protect the productivity and capacity of natural systems and the ecological processes
20 July 2022
which maintain their respective functions

 To promote development that is sustainable and optimizes resource use as well as
management opportunities.
 To fully recognize the scope and requirements of the TOR and comply with the same.
 The major objective of this study is to prepare a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment
Study within the study area i.e 10 km radius from the project.
1.4 METHODOLOGY ADOPTED FOR THE STUDY
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is an assessment of the possible impact, whether
positive or negative, that a proposed project may have on the environment, together consisting
of the natural, social and economic aspects, i.e., aiming at “Sustainable Development” due to the
project activities.
EIA study has been carried out with the following activities:
 A collection of baseline attributes within the study area (10 Km surrounding of the project
site) and the nearby possible affected area covered one season environmental data, as per
the guidelines of MoEF&CC. The scope includes a collection of baseline data, identify the
various environmental parameters such as Meteorology, Ambient Air Quality, Ambient
Noise levels, Surface Water Quality, Ground water quality, Ecological Environment & Socio -
economic factors
 Identification, prediction, evaluation & mitigation of biophysical, social & other relevant
effects of proposed mining activities on the environment. Accordingly mitigation measures
to be adopted have been recommended for critical environment impacts.
 Preparation of Risk Assessment & Emergency Preparedness/Disaster Management Plan for
the proposed project.
 Delineation of the post-project environmental quality monitoring program as per the
requirements of the regulatory authorities.
 Preparation of Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to be adopted for mitigation of the
anticipated adverse impacts of the proposed project activities.
1.5 STRUCTURE OF EIA REPORT
The EIA report has been presented in order to group the environmental parameters under
physical, biological, demographic & socio-economic environments, anticipated impacts and
mitigation measures. The EIA report has been prepared as contents given in EIA Notification 2006
and subsequent amendments. The structure of EIA Report is as given below:
Chapter 1: Introduction- Introductory information is presented in this Chapter. The introduction
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chapter provides background to the project, project proponent and describes the objective of this
document. The purpose and organization of the report is also presented in this chapter.
Chapter 2: Project Description- This Chapter includes Project Description and Infrastructure
Facilities delineating all the cluster mine operations.
Chapter 3: Description of the Environment- This Chapter provides baseline environmental status
of Environmental Components (Primary data) delineating meteorological details of the project site
and surrounding area.
Chapter 4: Anticipated Environmental Impacts & Mitigation Measures- This Chapter presents the
analysis of impacts on the environmental and social aspects of the project as a result of
establishment of plan and thereby suggesting the mitigation measures.
Chapter 5: Analysis of Alternatives (Technology and Sites)- This chapter includes the justification
for the selection of the project site from Environmental point of view. However, mining is a site
specific activity.
Chapter 6: Environmental Monitoring Program- This chapter will include the technical aspects of
monitoring, the effectiveness of mitigation measures which will include the measurement
methodologies, frequency, location, data analysis, reporting schedules, etc.,
Chapter 7: Additional Studies- This chapter will give detailed information about the Public
Consultation sought regarding the project. It will also identify the risks of the Project in relation to
the general public and the surrounding environment during mining operations. Social Impact
Assessment and any risks involved in the project activities will be included.
Chapter 8: Project Benefits- This chapter deals with improvement in physical and social
infrastructures, employment potential and other tangible benefits.
Chapter 9: Environmental Cost Benefit analysis- Not recommended during scoping stage.
Chapter 10: Environmental Management Plan- This is the key Chapter of the report and presents
the mitigation plan, covers the institutional and monitoring requirements to implement
environmental mitigation measures and to assess their adequacy during project implementation.
Chapter 11: Summary and Conclusion- This chapter summarizes the information given in Chapters
in this EIA/EMP report and the conclusion based on the environmental study, impact
identification, mitigation measures and the environmental management plan.
Chapter 12: Disclosure of the Consultant- Names of consultants engaged in the preparation of the
EIA/EMP report along with their brief resume and nature of Consultancy rendered are included in
this Chapter.
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2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 ABOUT THE PROJECT
The project Granite Building Stone mines over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey No. 66 of
Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State. The Granite Building Stone
cluster mine is located at private land and leased to a period of 5 years and mining operation will
be for 5 years. The total extent of land is 0.9447 Ha for which Environmental Clearance is required
to operate and to produce the Granite Building Stone mineral from the site. The Granite Building
Stone cluster mine will be operated by Semi Mechanized Open Cast Mining with Proposed RoM
production capacity around 54,625 metic tonnes per year.
2.1.1 Location of the Project:
The applied Mine Lease area over an extent of 0.9447 ha is covered within the survey of India Topo
sheet No. 58 - B/07 on a scale of 1:1,00,000. The combined coordinates of the lease area are
detailed in Approved Mining Plan. The highest altitude of the project area is 48m MSL and the
lowest is 30m MSL. The map showing general location, specific location is given in Figure 2.1. The
Topo map of Project site is given at Figure 2.2
.
Figure 2-1: Project Location Map of lease area
23 July 2022
Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Cluster Mines of Granite Building Stone Quarry over an Extent of 09447 Ha at Thrikkur Village,
Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State.
Figure 2-2: Topo Map of Project Site
24
Table 2-1 Project Summary & Salient Features within 15km radius of the lease area boundary
S.No Particulars Details
1. Latitude Name of the Proponent Geographical Coordinates
Thrikkur Granites 10°27'51.97"N to 10°27'55.25"N
Thattill Granites 10°27'58.28"N to 10°28'6.90"N
2. Longitude Name of the Proponent Geographical Coordinates
Thrikkur Granites 76°16'55.32"E to 76°16'58.94"E
Thattill Granites 76°16'51.42"E to 76°16'45.13"E
3. Site Elevation above Name of the Proponent Elevation
Surface Ground Level Thrikkur Granites 48 m
Thattill Granites 46 m
4. Topography Hilly Terrain
5. Land use of the site Private land which is not fit for vegetation /cultivation. The lessee had
been given precise area for the proposed grant of Rough Stone Quarry
Lease.
6. Survey No. Name of the Proponent S.F. No
Thrikkur Granites 66
Thattill Granites 66 P, 69
7. Topo sheet No. 58 – B/07
8. Location Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State.
9. Extent of lease area Name of the Proponent Area (Ha)
Thrikkur Granites 0.9447
Thattill Granites 5.8654
10. Quarry Lease period 5 Years
11. Peak yearly Name of the Proponent Production Per Year (MT)
production capacity Thrikkur Granites 54,625
Thattill Granites 3,23,000
12. Total Mineable Name of the Proponent Production Per Year (MT)
reserves Thrikkur Granites 2,73,125
Thattill Granites 14,04,580
13. Waste generation Name of the Proponent Production Per Year (MT)
Thrikkur Granites 8,208
Thattill Granites 73,925
14. Method of mining Semi Mechanized Open Cast mining
15. Bench parameters Bench height of 5m
Bench Height & width Bench Width of 5m
Bench slope
16. Life of Mine Name of the Proponent Production Per Year (M3)
Thrikkur Granites 5
Thattill Granites 10
17. Water Requirement & Water Requirement per Mine:
Source Drinking water & Domestic purpose: 1.00 KLD
Dust suppression: 12.0 KLD
Green belt: 2.00 KLD
Total: 15 KLD
25 July 2022

Source : Drinking Water Sourced from Authorized Vendors and other
utility water from the existing mine voids.
18. Manpower The Total Man power requirement per mine is 12 Nos.
Skilled Mine Mate 1 No
Mechanic 1 No
Blaster/Mat 1 No
Semi - Skilled Watchman 1 No
Unskilled Musdoor/ Labours 4 Nos
Cleaners 2 Nos
Office Boy 1 No
Management & Supervisory Staff 1 No
Total 12 Nos
19. Project Cost Name of the Proponent Cost of the Project
Thrikkur Granites 1,06,30,000/-
Thattill Granites 1,41,30,000/-
20. Nearest Highway Name of the Proponent Distance
Thrikkur Granites NH 544 – 2.65 km (W)
Thattill Granites NH 544 – 2.29km (W)
21. Nearest Railway Name of the Distance
Station Proponent
Thrikkur Granites Ollur Railway station – 6.5 km (NE)
Thattill Granites Ollur Railway station – 6.2 km (NE)
22. Nearest Airport Name of the Proponent Distance
Thrikkur Granites Cochin International Airport – 20
km (SE)
Thattill Granites Cochin International Airport – 20
km (SE)
23. Nearest Town / City Name of the Proponent Distance
Thrikkur Granites Thrissur– 9.5 km (NW)
Ollur – 4.65 km (W)
Thattill Granites Thrissur– 9.0 km (NW)
Ollur – 4.25 km (W)
24. Reservoir/Lake/ Name of the Proponent Distance
River/Sea Thrikkur Granites Manali River – 1.67 km (W)
Peechi Dam – 10.99 km (NE)
Valiyamannumkuzhy Lake – 1.25 km (SW)
Marottichal Water Falls - 8.35 km (E)
Thattill Granites Manali River – 1.11 km (W)
25. Reserved/ Protected Name of the Distance
Forests Proponent
Thrikkur Granites Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary -
11.03km (NE)
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Thattill Granites Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary -
11.23km (NE)
26. State Boundary Kerala - Tamil Nadu State boundary are as follows,
Name of the Proponent Distance along with directions
Thrikkur Granites 59.18 km (E)
Thattill Granites 59.18 km (E)
27. National parks/
Nil within 10 km Radius
Wildlife Sanctuaries
28. Archaeological
Important Places
29. Defense Installations Kainoor BSF Camp at 4.65 km
30. Nearest Port Nil within 10 km Radius
31. Seismic Zone Seismic Zone III as per IS 1893 (Part-1): 2002
2.2 SIZE OR MAGNITUDE OF OPERATION
2.2.1 Land Requirement
The project granite building stone mine is over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey No. 66 of
Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala. In the proposed mining lease area only
0.9447-hectare area is available for mining and the Proposed RoM production capacity is around
54,625 MT per year and about top soil is 8,208 Tonnes in mine life. It is an open cast mine and it is
proposed to do mining by semi mechanized efficient & scientific operations.
Table 2-2:Quarry Land details
District/ Extent Ownership of
Village Taluk S.F. No.
State (ha) Occupancy
Thrissur/Kerala Thrikkur Mukundapuram 66 0.9447 ha Private Land
In the post mining stage, out of the total lease area of 0.9447 Ha, about 0.1500 Ha Greenbelt will be
developed and the total top soil generation during the Mining Plan period is 8,208 Tonnes per Year
which is proposed to dump within the lease area during the course of mining operation. Top soil will
be used for reclamation and plantation purposes. The mine pit will be utilized as a water reservoir at
the time of ultimate pit limit or at the end of the life of quarry.
2.3 TOPOGRAPHY OF THE PROJECT SITE
The Area for quarry lease exhibits a hilly terrain with a gentle elevation of 30 m to 48 m above the
ground level and sloping towards North side covered with Granite Building Stone which does not
sustain any type of vegetation. There are habitations located within the 55 m radius of lease area.
27 July 2022
Water table is found at a depth of 5m to 10m from below the surface area in adjacent wells. The top
soil thickness is about 1.0m and it is fertile. It is a dry land and is found to be unfit even for vegetation.
The major water bodies found within the 10km radius is Manali River – 1.67 km (W),
Valiyamannumkuzhy Lake – 1.25 km (SW) and Marottichal Water Falls - 8.35 km (E). Peechi Dam, which
is the major water source of Thrissur City is located at distance of 10.99 km (NE) from the proposed
quarry site.
2.4 CONNECTIVITY
The nearest railway station is ollur railway station which is about ≃ 6.5 km on the western side of the
proposed quarry.. The project site is also feasible in roadway transportation which is Marathakkara –
Kallur Road via ≃ 0.5km. Salem – Kochi Highway (NH – 544) is ≃ 2.62Km. Road connectivity is shown
in Figure 2-3.
2.5 MINE DRAINAGE
The mine area is hillock 48m MSL height with slope towards north. The ground water table is
reported to be about 14 to 10m MSL in nearby area wells. According to workable depths, the
present quarry shall be proposed above the ground water table.
The ground water may not rise immediately in this type of mining. However, the rain water
percolation and collection of water from the seepage shall be less than 300 lpm and it shall be
pumped about periodically by a stand by diesel powered centrifugal pump motivated with 7.5 to
10.0 H.P motor. The quality of water is potable and it is not contaminated with any hazardous
things.
2.6 GEOLOGY OF THE REGION

Thrissur district can be broadly divided into four geological units:- (i) Charnockite belt which is
widespread and most prominent in the district; (ii) Gneissic belt represented by biotite gneiss,
hornblende-biotite gneiss and quartzo-feldspathic gneiss, (iii) Granitic gneiss (PGC) restricted to the
south eastern part and (iv) the Quaternaries of the coastal tract. Charnockite is the widespread rock
of the area. It is generally massive but when foliated has a gneissic look. Varieties like medium- and
coarse-grained, highly feldspathic and migmatitic are also not rare. Pyroxene granulite, a member of
the Charnockite Group, occurs as thin bands enclosed by charnockite and/or biotite gneiss. These
bands are a few metres in width and a few tens of metres in length. Biotite gneiss of Migmatite Complex
is next to charnockite in abundance.
The generalized stratigraphic succession of the geological formations met within this district is as
follows.
28 July 2022
Table 2-3: Rock Formations

S.No Age Rock Formation
1 Recent to sub recent Soil, Alluvium
2 Archaean Granites, basic granulites, Peninunsala Gneisses,
Calc Gneisses and Charnockite.
2.6.1 Geology of the Project site
 The area is mainly composed of Archaean crystalline metamorphic complex.
 The rock type noticed in the area for lease is Granite Gneiss with some ferromagnesian
minerals
 The Granite Gneiss is part of peninsular Gneisses, a high grade metamorphic rock.
 The general geological succession of the area is given as under.
Table 2-4 Geology of the Project Site
S.No Age Rock Formation
1. Recent to Sub recent Soil, Alluvium
2. Archaean Charnockites
3. Archaean Peninsular Gneiss, and Calc Gneiss
2.7 TECHNOLOGY & PROCESS DESCRIPTION
2.7.1 Technology
Primary step of mining of minerals is the removal of the deposits from the ground. Once the minerals
are removed, additional preparation process is required to isolate the valuable minerals from their
waste gangue minerals. There are two basic method of mining of minerals opencast and underground
mining. The choice of method depends on the geologic, hydrological, geo-technical, geographic,
economic, technological, environmental, safety, Socio - political and financial considerations.
29 July 2022
Figure 2-3: Process flow chart for mining

2.7.2 Method of Mining
a. Type of Mining:
Opencast method of semi mechanized mining will be adopted to extract Granite Building Stone of
required size. Machineries like Tractor mounted compressor attached with Jack hammers is proposed
to drilling and control blasting. Excavators are proposed for quarrying of Rough Stone and Tippers/
Lorries are proposed for the transportation of Rough Stone to the destination.
b. Proposed Method of Working:
It is a semi mechanized quarrying operation using shot hole drilling with the help of compressor and
jack hammers, smooth proposed control blasting, block lifting using cranes and waste removal will be
done by using Hydraulic excavator and loaded directly to the tippers and transported to the crushing
plants into required size in the crushing plants from 75mm jelly to 10mm chips. The proposed Bench
30 July 2022
Height is 5 m and the proposed Bench Width is 5 m.

The thickness of the top soil noticed in this lease area is 1.0 m and its total volume will be 8,208 MT.
Topsoil formation will be removed and proposed to all sides of the 10 m boundary barrier of the lease
area.
c. Proposed Control Blasting:
The massive formation shall be broken into pieces of portable size by drilling and control blasting using
jack hammers & shot hole blasting. Powder factor of explosives for breaking such hard rock shall be in
the order of 6 to 7 tonnes per kg of explosives.
Table 2-5: Proposed Control Blasting Parameters
Diameter of the hole : 32-36 mm
Spacing : 60 Cms
Depth : 1 to 1.5m
Charge / Hole : D.Cord with water or 70 gms of gun powder or Gelatine.
Pattern of hole : Zig Zag
Inclination of hole : 700 from the horizontal.
Quantity of rock broken : 0.45 MT x 2.6 = 1.17 MT
Control Blasting efficiency @ 90% : 1.17 x 90% = 1.05MT / hole
Charge per hole : 140 gms of 25mm dia cartridge
2.7.2.1 Transportation
Transportation of raw materials and waste shall be done by tipper.
Table 2-6: Proposed Control Blasting Parameters
Type Nos Size / Capacity Make Motive power H.P
Tipper 3 10 M.T Ashok Leyland Diesel 110
2.7.2.2 Types of Explosives

Following explosives are recommended for efficient Proposed Control Blasting with safe practice.
Table 2-7: Type of Explosives
Class /
S. No. Description Type Size
Division
1 Slurry Class – 3 Nitro compound 25 * 200
2 Nitrate mixture Class -2 ANFO (Ammonium nitrate with Prepared at the site
12% diesel)
3 Detonators Class – 3 Ordinary and elec (OD & ED) 6.5 * 32
4 Safety fuse Class – 6 Blue sump fuse coils of 10m each
2.7.3 Method of Estimation of Reserve

2.7.3.1 Geological Reserves
As far as Granite Building stone is concerned, the only practical method is the systematic geological
31 July 2022
mapping and delineation of Granite Building stone within the field and careful evaluation of body
luster, physical properties, engineering properties, commercial aspects etc.,
Two sections have been drawn, one section drawn Length wise as (X-Y) and another one sections are
drawn Width wise as (A-B) to cover the maximum area considered for permit.
Table 2-8: Estimation of Geological Reserves as Per Cross Sectional Method
GEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Volume Recoverable
Length Width Depth Bulk Topsoil
Section Bench in Reserve in Ts
in (m) in (m) in (m) Density
(Cu.m.) in Ts (100%)
I 108 97 1 10476 2 - 20952
II 39 97 5 18915 2.5 47288 -
III 97 97 5 47045 2.5 117613 -
IV 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
XY-AB V 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
VI 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
VII 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
VIII 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
IX 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
Total 950600 20952
2.7.3.2 Year Wise Production Details
Proposed production capacity of building stone quarry is about a maximum of 54,625 Tonnes per
annum. Total mineable reserve available is 2,73,125 Tonnes of building stone. The expected life of mine
will be Five years.
Table 2-9: Year wise Development
YEAR WISE DEVELOPMENT
Volume Recoverable
Year Section Bench in Reserve
in (m) in (m) in (m) Density in Ts
(Cu.m.) in Ts (100%)
I 72 57 1 4104 2 - 8208
I Year XY-AB II 30 40 5 6000 2.5 15000 -
III 40 78 5 15600 2.5 39000 -
III 44 78 5 17160 2.5 42900 -
II Year XY-AB
IV 14 67 5 4690 2.5 11725 -
IV 60 67 5 20100 2.5 50250 -
III Year XY-AB
V 6 57 5 1710 2.5 4275 -
V 58 57 5 16530 2.5 41325 -
IV Year XY-AB
VI 23 47 5 5405 2.5 13512.5 -
VI 31 47 5 7285 2.5 18212.5 -
VII 44 37 5 8140 2.5 20350 -
V Year XY-AB
VIII 34 27 5 4590 2.5 11475 -
IX 24 17 5 2040 2.5 5100 -
Grand Total 273125 8208
32 July 2022
2.7.3.3 Conceptual Mining Plan

Conceptual Mining plan and sections is prepared with an object of Five years of systematic
development of benches, layouts, selection of permanent ultimate pit limit, depth of quarrying and
ultimate pit, selection of sites for construction of infrastructure etc. Ultimate pit size is designed based
on certain practical factors such as the economical depth of mining, safety zones, permissible areas
etc. Afforestation has been proposed on the boundary barrier by planting trees. All the baseline
information studies like Air quality monitoring, Noise and Vibration monitoring, Water Analysis studies
will be carried out every year as per the MOEF norms.
The land use pattern before and after mining as shown in the table below.
Table 2-10: Present and Post Mining Land Use
Present Area Area at the end of this
Description
(Ha.) quarrying period (Ha.)
Area under Quarrying 0.1747 0.7547
Infrastructure Nil 0.0200
Roads 0.0100 0.0200
Green Belt /Afforestation Nil 0.1500
Unutilized 0.6700 Nil
Grand Total 0.9447 0.49447
Energy: Electricity for mines and lights at nights (Working is restricted on day time only between 9am
to 5 pm). Diesel (HSD) will be used for quarrying machines around 500 litres of HSD will be used average
per day. Diesel will be brought from nearby diesel pumps. No power is required for the project.
Lightings on the night will be taken from nearby electric poles after obtaining permission from
concerned authorities.
For Top Soil:
Per hour excavator will consume = 10 liters/hour
Per hour excavator will excavate = 150 MT of Top soil
For 8208 MT of Top Soil = 8208/150
= 54.72 hours
Diesel consumption 120.86 working hours = 54.72 * 10 litres
Total diesel consumption = 547.2 litres of HSD will be utilised for top soil.
33 July 2022
For Rough Stone:

Per hour excavator will consume = 16 litres/hour
Per hour excavator will excavate = 50 MT of granite building stone
For 2,73,125 MT of = 2,73,125/50
= 5,462.5 hours
Diesel consumption 51081.45 working hours= 5,462.5 hours * 16 litres
= 87,400 litres of HSD will be utilised for rough stone
Total diesel consumption is around = 87,947.2 litres of HSD for the entire period of life.
2.7.4 Extent of Mechanization
a. Drilling Machine
Drilling of shot holes will be carried out using compressor and jack hammer. Depth of holes shall be 1
to 2m bench height and spacing shall be 0.75m and burden shall be 0.60m from the preface. Details of
drilling equipment’s are given below.
Table 2-11: Details of Drilling Machine
Sl.No Type Nos. Dia Hole mm Size Capacity Make Motive power
1 Jack hammer 3 34 mm 0.2 to 0.8m depth Atlas Copco Compressed air
2. Compressor 3 - - Atlas Copco Diesel
b. Loading equipment
Loading of waste and rough stone shall be carried out by Excavator into 10 tonne capacity tippers from
the working place periodically. Details of loading equipment are given as under.
Table 2-12: Details of Loading Equipment
Sl.No. Type Nos. Capacity Make Motive Power
1 Tata Hitachi 2 1.5m3 EX 200LC Diesel
2 Hyundai 140 2 0.65m3 R140LC-9 Diesel
c. Transport Equipment
Transport of raw materials and waste shall be done by Tipper of 10 tonnes capacity
Table 2-13: Details of Transport Equipment
Sl.No. Type Nos. Capacity Make Motive Power
1 Tata Tippers 4 10 tonne 1613 Diesel
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2.7.5 Stacking of minerals and disposal of waste

The mine waste in the mine includes the side burden, rock fragments and rubbles generated as mineral
rejects during production works as approach road formation, formation of dumping yard sites etc.,
during the first five years of Mining Plan period, such waste materials are proposed to be dump within
the lease area where it comprises of country rock terrain.
The overburden in the form of Top soil, A Total Quantity of the top soil is 8,208 Tonnes proposed to be
removed during mining operation. The topsoil will be removed and preserved all along the boundary
barriers for afforestation and Green belt development.
The entire quarried out building stone will be consumed hence waste is not anticipated.
2.7.6 Conceptual Mining plan

A conceptual mining plan is prepared with an object of long term systematic development of benches,
layouts, selection of permanent structures, depth of quarrying and ultimate pit dimensions, selection
of sites for construction of infrastructure, etc., The ultimate pit size is designed based on certain
practical parameters such as economical depth of mining, safety zones, permissible area, etc.,
Afforestation is proposed in the nearby village and village roads by planting neem trees of native
species. All the base line information studies like Air quality monitoring, Noise and vibration
monitoring, Water analysis studies will be carried out every year as per the MOEF Norms. It is propose
to engage any local institution to monitor the EIA and EMP during the course of quarrying operation
after the grant of quarry lease.
As the applicant has applied quarry lease for three years, the ultimate pit limit (dimension) at the end
of lease period is given below.
Table 2-14: Details of Ultimate Pit
Ultimate Pit Dimension
Width in Depth in
Length in (m)
(m) (m)
93 89 41
2.7.7 Manpower Requirement

As per the Mines safety under the provisions of MMR, 2015 under statutory provisions of the
metalliferous mines regulations, 1961.whenever the workers are employed more than 10, it is
preferred to have a qualified Mining mate to keep all the production workers directly under his control
35 July 2022
and supervision.
The following manpower is proposed to carry out the day-to-day quarrying activities aimed at the
proposed production target
Allowing 10% absenteeism the man power would be around 12, the above manpower is adequate to
meet out the production schedule and the machinery strength envisaged in the mining plan and to
comply with the statutory provisions of the Mines Safety Regulations.
It is been ensured that the labor will not be employed less than 18 years, No child labour will be
engaged or entertained for any kind of quarrying operations. All the labors engaged for quarrying
operations will be insured during the quarry permit period.
Table 2-15: Man Power Requirement

S.No Description No’s
1 Operator 1
Skilled Mechanic 1
Blaster/Mat 1
2 Semi - Skilled Driver 2
3 Musdoor/ 3
Labours
Unskilled
Loading 3
Office Boy 1
Total 12 Nos
2.7.8 Power Requirement
Simple mechanical methods will be adopted and the limited scale of activities to be involved in Building
Stone mining does not require high- tension electric power. The mining work will be restricted to one
general shift during daytime only. Existing facilities will be used and power requirement for the
administrative buildings, roads etc. can be met from state grid. Besides, standby generator will be
available to meet the emergency power requirement of the mines.
2.7.9 Water requirement
Total water requirement for the project is 2.5 KLD. Water will be required for the Domestic purpose,
Dust Suppression & Green belt development etc. It is proposed to make borehole for providing
uninterrupted supply of Drinking water.
Table 2-16: Water Requirement

S. No. Description Water in (KLD)
1 Domestic Water use (For Labours) 1.0
2 Dust Suppression (Material Transportation) 12.0
3 Greenbelt Development 2.0
Total 15 KLD
36 July 2022
Total water requirement

15.0 KLD
Domestic Use Dust Green Belt

1.0 KLD Suppression Development
12.0 KLD 2.0 KLD
Figure 2-4: Schematic representation on Water requirement

2.7.10 Sewerage System
Semi-permanent latrines & urinals shall be maintained at convenient places for the use labours as per
the provisions of Rule (33) of the Mines Rules, 1960 separately for males and females, Washing facilities
shall also be arranged as per rule (36) of the Mines Rules, 1960.
Hygienic modern sanitary facilities will be constructed with in the quarrying area as permanent
structure and it will be maintained periodically.
2.7.11 Reclamation and Rehabilitation

The present mining is proposed to an average depth of 15m MSL from above ground surface level of
38m MSL. Total depth – 23m. The mined out area will be fenced on top of open cast working with
barbed fencing. Low lying areas with water logging shall be used for fish culture. No immediate
proposals for closure pit as the rough stone persist still at deeper level.
2.7.12 Phased Programme for planting Trees
Safety distance along of the lease area has been identified to be utilized for afforestation. Appropriate
species of trees will be planted in phased manner as described as follows:
Table 2-17: Phased Programme for planting Trees
Safety No. of trees
No. of trees Name of Survival Rate
Year Distance expected
to planted species expected in %
(m) to be growth
I 50 Tamarind/ 2 80% 40
II 50 Casuarines/ 2 80% 40
III 50 Elanji/ 2 80% 40
IV 50 Mahagony/ 2 80% 40
V 50 Cassia 2 80% 40
Fistula/
The total area for proposed for five years of Mining Plan period for Green belt is around 0.1500 Ha out
37 July 2022
of 0.9447 Ha. The estimated budget for plantation and maintenance of Green belt development would
be around 25,000/-
2.8 WELFARE MEASURES
2.8.1 Drinking Water
Packaged drinking water is available from the nearby approved water vendors in Trikkur which is about
1Km from the South western side of the area. Drinking water shall be readily available at conveniently
accessible points during the whole of the working shift.
2.8.2 Sanitary Facilities
Hygienic modern sanitary facilities will be constructed with in the quarrying area as permanent
structure and it will be maintained periodically.
2.8.3 First aid facility
First aid kits are kept in Mines office room, in case of such eventualities the victim will be given first aid
immediately at the site and injured person will be taken to the hospital. The competent and statutory
foreman/ permit manager will be in charge of first aid.
2.8.4 Labour Health
Periodically medical checkup related to occupational health safety will be conducted to all the workers
in Applicant own cost.
2.8.5 Precautionary safety measures to the labourers.
All the quarry workers will be provided with safety equipments like helmets, Mine Goggles, Ear plugs,
Ear muffs, Dust mask, reflector jackets and Safety Shoes as personal protective device as per the
specification approved by Director of mines safety. Periodically medical checkup will be conducted for
all workers for any mine health related problems. Proper training and induction will be given by
qualified and experienced safety officer to all employees about the safe and systematic Granite
Building stone quarrying operations. The drillers and workers will be sent for vocational training
periodically to carry out the quarrying operations scientifically to safe guard the men machinery and
mineral and to create awareness of conventional opencast quarrying operations.
2.9 PROJECT COST
The proposed project cost including the landcost, operational cost, EMP Cost and CER Cost is shown in
the table 2-44.
Table 2-18: Land Cost for the proponents
Proponent Land Cost In Lakhs
Land Cost and Fixed Asset 87,50,000/-
38 July 2022

Operational Cost 1,25,00,000/-
EMP Cost 15,00,000/-
CER Cost 22,50,000/-
Total Cost 2,50,00,000/-
39 July 2022
3 DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENT
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Baseline Environmental Studies have been conducted to determine the existing status of various
Environmental attributes viz., Climate and atmospheric conditions, ambient air, ambient noise, water
(ground & surface), soil, hydrogeological, ecological and socio-economic environment etc., of proposed
project. This study would help to undertake corrective mitigation measures for the protection of the
environment on account of any change, deviation of attributes due to the proposed project activities.
The reconnaissance survey of the area around the Proposed Granite Building Stone Quarry over an
extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey No. 66 of Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur
District, Kerala State was carried out from April 2022 and the field studies were carried out for one
season during summer season for the EIA studies to collect baseline primary and secondary data for
the present environmental scenario in the study area.
3.2 SCOPE OF BASELINE STUDY
Primary data on Micrometeorology, ambient air, ambient noise, traffic, soil, water, flora-fauna & socio-
economic data were collected by a team of experts. Secondary data was collected from various
Departments of State/Central Government Organizations, Semi-Government and Public Sector
Organizations. Table 3-1 gives various environmental attributes considered for formulating
environmental baseline and Table 3-2 gives the frequency and monitoring methodology for various
environmental attributes.
Table 3-1 Environmental Attributes
S.No. Attribute Parameter Source of Data
1 Climatology & Wind speed, Wind direction, Dry bulb
Indian Meteorological
Meteorology temperature, Wet bulb temperature, Department and Site
Relative humidity, Rainfall, Solar radiation,
specific Data at project
Cloud cover and Environmental Lapsesite.
2 Geology Geological history Field survey and
Secondary sources
3 Land Use Trend of land use change for different Secondary data/ Satellite
categories imagery/ Topo sheet etc.
4 Ambient Air PM10, PM2.5, SO2, NOx Monitored Data (8
Quality locations)
5 Ambient Noise Noise levels in dB (A) Monitored Data (8
Quality locations)
7 Water Quality Physical and Chemical parameters Monitored Data (Ground
water – 6 locations,
Surface water – 5
40 July 2022
S.No. Attribute Parameter Source of Data

locations)
8 Soil Soil types and samples analyzed for Analysis of soil samples at
physical and chemical parameters. 5 locations
9 Ecology Existing terrestrial flora and fauna within Field survey and
the study area Secondary sources
10 Socioeconomic Socioeconomic characteristics of the Based on field survey and
Aspects affected area data collected from
secondary sources
Source: ABC Techno Labs India Pvt. Ltd.
Table 3-2 Frequency and Monitoring Methodology
Sampling
Attributes Measurement Method Remarks
Network Frequency
Meteorology
Wind speed, Wind Secondary Data Monthly Weather monitors with
direction, Dry bulb average the database
temperature, Wet bulb data
temperature, Relative
humidity, Rainfall, Solar
radiation, Cloud cover
and Environmental Laps
Air Environment
Particulate Matter Requisite 24 hourly Gravimetric (High- National
(PM10) locations in the Sampling Volume with Cyclone) Ambient Air
project for the Quality
influence area month of Standards
-- (NAAQS)
MParticulate Matter Requisite 24 hourly Gravimetric (High- National
(PM2.5) locations in the Sampling Volume with Cyclone) Ambient Air
-- (NAAQS)
Oxides of Sulphur (SO2) Requisite 24 hourly EPA Modified West & National
locations in the Sampling Gaeke method Ambient Air
-- (NAAQS)
Oxides of Nitrogen Requisite 24 hourly Arsenite Modified National
(NOx) locations in the Sampling Jacob & Hochheiser Ambient Air
-- (NAAQS)
Noise
Hourly equivalent noise Requisite Once Instrument: Sound level IS: 4954 1968
levels locations in the meter
project
influence area
Water
41 July 2022
Sampling
Attributes Measurement Method Remarks
Network Frequency
Parameters for water Set of grab Once Samples for water IS:
quality: Colour, Odour, samples At quality collected and 10500:2012
Turbidity, pH, requisite analyzed as per IS: 2488 (GW)
Conductivity, TDS, Total locations for (Part 1-5) methods for
Hardness, Calcium as Ca, suface and sampling and testing of
Magnesium as Mg, ground water Industrial effluents
Chloride as Cl, Total Standard methods for
Alkalinity, Iron as Fe, the examination of
Sulphate as SO4, Total water by American
Coliform Bacteria, E-Coli Public Health
Association.
Land Environment
Parameter for soil Requisite soil Once Collected and analyzed
quality: pH, samples were as per soil analysis
conductivity, water collected as per reference book, M.L.
holding capacity, BIS specification Jackson
organic matter, within project
nitrogen, phosphate, influence area
sodium, sodium,
chloride and sulphur etc.
Biological Environment
Flora and Fauna Requisite Once Collected and analyzed
locations in the as per IUCN Red Data
project book.
influence area
3.3 ADMINISTRATIVE SETUP
Thrissur District: The holy land of wise scholars, men of valour and courage, blessed with the green
valleys, hills and hillocks and inhabited by people known for innovative farming.. Thrissur district is
bounded by Vellore and Palakkad districts in the East, Malappuram districts in the North Eranakulam
District in the south. Its area is 3032 Sq. Kms. It is located between 10°52’N Latitude, 76°21’E
Longitude.
3.4 METROLOGY AND CLIMATE
3.4.1 Climatic Condition
The district receives the rain under the influence of both Southwest and Northeast monsoons. July -
November is Rainy Season and between December - February winter prevails. The annual rainfall over
the district varies from about 3000 mm.
3.4.2 Regional Metrology

Historical data on meteorological parameters will also play an important role in identifying the general
meteorological will also play an important role in identifying the general meteorological regime of the
42 July 2022
region. The study area is primarily semi-arid zone and climate of the region is characterized by its
dryness and erratic rainfall. It is characterized by a hot and dry summer from March - May a monsoon
or rainy season from June-August and retreating monsoon since October to November and winter
season from December to February
Mannuthy IMD Station
The regional meteorology summary details monitored at nearest IMD station at Mannuthy are given
below;
 Temperature
The monthly mean maximum temperature varied from 33.0°C in May to 28.7°C in December while
monthly mean minimum varied from 25.9°C in May to 17.8°C in January indicating January as the
coldest while May as hottest month.
 Relative Humidity
During the month of December the relative humidity was highest (87%). The annual average Relative
humidity is 77% (at 0830 Hours) and 53% (at 1730 Hours). Generally, the weather during other seasons
was observed to be dry.
 Rainfall
The rainfall occurred maximum in June (645 mm) and July (576 mm). The total rainfall received in the
year is about 3000 mm. Total rainy days observed about 90.0 days. The monsoon sets in the month of
June and continues till August.
 Wind Speed/ Direction
The maximum wind speed observed during the month of June is 9 Kmph and minimum wind speed
observed during the month of October is 4.2 Kmph. The annual average wind speed calculated is 6.1
Kmph. The predominant winds are mostly from SW directions.
3.4.3 Site Specific Meteorology

The continuous weather monitoring station was installed at Project site. On site monitoring was
undertaken for various meteorological parameters in order to generate the site-specific data. The
Central Monitoring Station (CMS), equipped with continuous monitoring equipment to record wind
speed, wind direction, temperature, humidity and rain fall was set up at the top of the building at a
height of ~5.0m above the ground level. The methodology adopted for monitoring surface observations
was as per the Standard norms laid down by the Bureau of Indian Standards (IS: 8829:1978) and IMD.
Data was collected at every hour continuously in the month of May 2022
Table 3-3 Site specific Weather Report for the Study period
43 July 2022
S.No Parameters Observations (April 2022)

1 Dry Bulb Temperature (ºC)
Maximum 32
Minimum 16
Average 22.63
2 Relative Humidity (%)
Maximum 98
Minimum 20
Average 73.48
3 Wind (m/s)
Maximum 6
Minimum 1
Average 2.37
4 Rainfall (in mm)
Total (mm) 42
1. Temperature
The average temperature during study period in the site locations Thrikkur is varied from 22°C to 33°C
respectively.
2. Relative Humidity
The average relative humidity during study period in the site locations Thrikkur is varied from 60% to
98% respectively.
3. Rainfall
No rainfall was observed during the study period.
4. Wind
The monthly wind speed in the site locations Thrikkur village, Thrissur district. Varied from 4m/s to
9m/s occurring during the study period respectively. It can be observed that during study period wind
blows mostly from ENE, E direction.
3.5 GEOMORPHOLOGY1
TOPOGRAPHY:
Generally the topography of the area exhibits hilly terrain. The permit applied area in particular;
the topography is sloping towards Northwestern side. The highest elevation is 56m RL on the Centre
side and the lowest is 30m RL on the Northwestern side of the area. Though there is no natural drainage
in seen in the permit area, the rain water will drain into valley. The Quarry lease / Surface plan of the
permit area is enclosed as Plate No. VI.
1
District Ground Water brochure, Krishnagiri district, Tamilnadu by Central Ground Water Board.
44 July 2022
REGIONAL GEOLOGY:
The study area is a part of the Southern Granulite Terrain (SGT) consisting of rock types
belonging to the Precambrian Gneissic Complex (PGC), which includes calc-granulite, pyroxene-
granulite, variants of charnockite, hornblendebiotite gneiss intruded by quartz and pegmatite veins
Southeastern portion is covered by calc-granulite band consisting of plagioclase, quartz, diopside and
little amount of garnet. Magnetite and sphene occur as accessories. The pyroxene-granulites occur as
less than 3m wide thin bands enclosed by charnockites. These are composed of mainly quartz and
hypersthene with accessory apatite and zircon. Charnockite is the major rock type seen in the area; it
has a gradational contact with the hornblende-biotite gneiss as observed in the southeastern part. The
charnockite is medium to coarse-grained with quartz, feldspars, hypersthene, biotite and minor
opaques. Hornblende-biotite gneiss is composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, hornblende and biotite.
3.6 LAND ENVIRONMENT
3.6.1 Land Use/ Land Cover
Thematic mapping of Thrikkur Village , Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur Dist., Kerala State.area has been
carried out, the proposed area falls between Latitude: 10°27'51.97"N to 10°27'55.25"N and Longitude
76°16'55.32"E to 76°16'58.94"E. As per the need, and with the help of Topographical data, Satellite
data and field studies mapping of Land use/ Land cover was carried out.
3.6.2 Generation of Thematic Layers
Based on the physical characteristics of the study area, their sources, method of derivation of maps
(IMSD Technical Guidelines, NRSC, 1995), the following map is generated. The classification of these
maps is listed as below.
3.6.3 Land use / Land cover map (LU/LC)
Land use refers to man’s activities and various uses, which are carried on land. Land cover refers to
natural vegetation, water bodies, rock/soil, artificial cover and others resulting due to land
transformation. Although land use is generally inferred based on the cover, yet both the terms land
use and land cover are closely related and interchangeable. Information on the rate and kind of change
in the use of land resources is essential to the proper planning, management and regulation of the use
of such resources. Knowledge about the existing land use and trends of change is been carried out
based on the NRSC land use / land cover classification system. Flowchart showing the Methodology
adopted for land use/land cover mapping is given. For analysis and interpretation, and preparation of
LU/LC map, two types of data are needed: 1. Basic data 2. Ground data
Basic data includes:
(a) IRS P6LISSIV
(b) Toposheet
45 July 2022
(c) Local knowledge

(d) Area map on any scale to transfer details
(e) Reports and other literature of the study area
Ground data: Ground data is very much essential to verify and to increase the accuracy of the
interpreted classes and also to minimize the field work.
Data analysis: For analysis and interpretation of satellite data, the study can be divided into three parts
A. Preliminary work
B. Field work
C. Post field work
A. Preliminary work includes:
i. To see the limitation of satellite data
ii. To lay down the criteria for land use classification to be adopted
iii. To fix the size of mapping units, which depends upon the scale?
iv. Interpretation of different land use/land covers classes
v. demarcation of doubtful areas
vi. Preparation of field land use/land cover map
B. Field work:
i. Type of ground data to be collected
ii. Selection of sample area for final classification
iii. Checking of doubtful areas
iv. Change in land use/ land cover due to wrong identification, fresh development,
nomenclature.
v. General verification
C. Post field work:
i. Reinterpretation or analysis or correction of doubtful areas
ii. Transfer of details on base map
iii. Marginal information
iv. Preparation of final land use/land cover map
46 July 2022
Figure 3-1: Flow Chart Showing the Methodology Adapted for LULC Maping
3.6.4 Inferenc
Land use and land cover have a direct relationship with environmental characteristics and processes,
including the productivity of the land, species diversity, climate, biogeochemistry and the hydrologic
cycle. GIS and Remote Sensing are gradually becoming an integrated technology that is being widely
used in various applications. These two technologies are complementary, as they are simply variants
of the digital spatial data. They have become inextricably linked in many application fields. The spatial
display techniques for GIS and Remote Sensing information has greatly advanced within the past two
decades. Technological advances in image processing and visualization techniques have developed
display and interpretation mechanisms for the analysis of all forms and sources of geographical
information.
3.6.5 Study Area Land Use / Land Cover Classification System
Using the standard land use classification system proposed by NRSC, about five classes of level I, twelve
of level II and four of level III land use / land cover classes were identified and mapped using satellite
data in the present study. The imagery is interpreted and ground checked for corrections.
The land use / land cover Thrikkurr Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District., Kerala State is
given below table 3.4
47 July 2022
Table 3-4 Site specific Weather Report for the Study period
Sl. No. Classification Area in Square % Land Use
Kilometre
1 Agriculture Crop Land 57.15 18.19
2 Agriculture Plantation 147.40 46.92
3 Agriculture fallow land 59.05 18.80
4 Barren / unculturable 9.72 3.09
/ waste land, scrub
land
5 Water Body 10.34 3.29
6 Other Ind / Quarry / 8.76 0.63
Min
7 Built up land 28.51 9.08
3.7 AIR ENVIRONMENT

The prime objective of baseline air monitoring is to evaluate the existing air quality of the study area
around the cluster mines. This will also be useful for assessing the conformity to standards of the
ambient air quality during the mining process. This section describes the selection of sampling
locations, the methodology adopted for sampling, analysis techniques and frequency of sampling. The
results of ambient air quality monitoring carried out during the period of May.
Ambient air quality of the study area has been assessed through a network of 8 ambient air quality
stations designed keeping in view the meteorological conditions of the study region and others such
as major habitation, environment sensitivity etc. It was observed that no habitats present near the
cluster mines. There are totally 2 mines available within 500m radius, of which 1 mines have been
proposed and 1 mines that are previously existing and 1 crusher that is under operation, has been
covered in baseline study. The AAQ locations selected based on the predominant wind directions and
major habitation area. The methodology adopted for the air quality survey is given below.
3.7.1 Selection of Sampling Locations
The locations for air quality monitoring were scientifically selected based on the following
considerations using climatological data.
 Topography / Terrain of the study area
 Human Settlements
 Health status
48 July 2022
 Accessibility of monitoring site

 Resource Availability
 Representativeness of the region for establishing baseline status
 Representativeness with respect to likely impact areas.
The Ambient Air Quality monitoring locations are given in Table 3-9.and in Figure 3-14.
Table 3-5: Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Locations
Monitoring Distance Direction
Location Type
Location code w.r.to site w.r.to site
Proposed Project
AAQ1 Project Site -
Site Site
Neighbouring
AAQ2 Mine site 150 m N
Project Site
Proposed
AAQ3 North Boundary 55 m N
Site
Proposed
AAQ4 East Boundary 80 m E
Site
Proposed
AAQ5 West Boundary 60 m W
Site
Proposed
AAQ6 South Boundary 75 m S
Site
Marathakkara –
AAQ7 Residential 2.50 km SW
Puthur Road
Thrikkur
AAQ8 Ponnukkara Residential 1.50 km E
Road
Source: Standard Environmental and Analytical Laboratory
3.7.2 Parameters for Sampling

Ambient air quality monitoring was carried out at a frequency of two days per week at each location
for continuous three months. The baseline data of air environment was generated for the parameters
namely Particulate Matter size less than 10 µm (PM10), Particulate Matter size less than 2.5 µm
(PM2.5), Sulphur dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen dioxide (NOX), Concentrations of pollutant parameter
monitored have been compared with National Ambient Air Quality standards.
3.7.3 Instruments Used For Sampling
Respirable dust samplers APM 460 bl of Envirotech, fine particulate samplers APM 550 of Envirotech
& combo pm10 & pm 2.5 sampler and as 271 of Envirotech were used for monitoring the particulate
matter pm10 & pm 2.5. The gaseous pollutant samplers as 109 of Ecotech & APM 411 along with APM
460 Envirotech were used for sampling of gaseous pollutant like SO2, NOX,
3.7.4 Sampling and Analytical Techniques
The sampling and analytical techniques used for the monitoring of ambient air quality are given in table
49 July 2022
3-8. The power supply for operation of AAQ instruments were utilized from nearest available sources
like government building as Panchayat office, schools, and temple or residential buildings at each AAQ
station.
Table 3-6: Analytical Methods for Analysis of Ambient Air Quality Parameters (NAAQS)
S.No Parameters Analytical method NAAQ standards: 2009
1 Sulphur Dioxide IS 11255: (Part 2) / USEPA Method
50 (Annual) 80 (24 Hours)
(SO2), μg/m3 6
2 Nitrogen Dioxide IS: 5182 (Part – 6): 2006 /CPCB
40 (Annual) 80 (24 Hours)
(NO2), μg/m3 guidelines Volume1
3 In house method (Gravimetric
Particulate Matter
method) based on CPCB guidelines 40(Annual) 60 (24hours)
(PM2.5), μg/m3
Volume1
4 Particulate Matter IS:5182 (Part– 23): 2006 CPCB
60 (Annual) 100 (24 hours)
(PM10), μg/m3 guidelines Volume1
Table 3-7: Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Results

Location Code PM10,µg/m3 PM2.5 µg/m3 Sox µg/m3 NOx µg/m3
AAQ1 37.5 20.2 <2 <2
AAQ2 41.2 20.4 <2 <2
AAQ3 44.1 24.6 <2 <2
AAQ4 36.8 19.1 <2 <2
AAQ5 42.5 23.4 <2 <2
AAQ6 38.4 21.8 <2 <2
AAQ7 42.1 22.8 4.5 3.8
AAQ8 40.8 20.3 3.3 4.1
CPCB / MoEF Standards
Industrial 100 60 80 80
/Residential / Rural
and Other Area
3.7.5 Results
Various parameters like maximum, minimum and average have been computed from the monitored data
for all the locations and summary of Ambient Air Quality test results are presented in following tables 3-11.
3.8 NOISE ENVIRONMENT
The main objective of monitoring of ambient noise levels was to establish the baseline noise levels in
the surrounding areas and to assess the total noise level in the environment of the study area. The
50 July 2022
measurements were carried out using Type 1 noise level integrated sound level meter. Monitoring was
done at each location during the study period for 24 hrs on hourly basis to obtain hourly equivalent
sound pressure level. A digital noise level meter was used to record the noise levels. From these values,
day time and night time and 24-hrs Leq values were calculated. Day time is considered from 0600 hrs
to 2200 hrs and night from 2200 hrs to 0600 hrs.
3.8.1 Identification of Sampling Locations
A preliminary reconnaissance survey was undertaken to identify the major noise sources in the area.
The noise monitoring has been conducted at 8 locations within study area which are presented in Table
3-12 and Figure 3-12.
Table 3-8: Noise Quality Monitoring Stations
Monitoring Distance Direction

Location Type
Location code w.r.to site w.r.to site
Prposed Project
N1 Project Site -
Site Site
N2 Neighbouring
Mine site 150 m N
Project Site
N3 Prposed
North Boundary 55 m N
Site
N4 Prposed
East Boundary 80 m E
Site
N5 Prposed
West Boundary 60 m W
Site
N6 Prposed
South Boundary 75 m S
Site
N7 Marathakkara –
Residential 2.50 km SW
Puthur Road
N8 Thrikkur
Ponnukkara Residential 1.50 km E
Road
3.8.2 Instrument used for Sampling

Noise levels were measured using a sound level meter. The sound level meter measures the equivalent
continuous noise level (Leq) by switching to the corresponding function mode.
3.8.3 Method of Monitoring
Sound Pressure Level (SPL) measurements were measured at all locations. The readings were taken for
every hour for 24 hours. The day noise levels have been monitored during 6 am to 10 pm and night
levels during 10 pm to 6 am at all the locations covered in a 10 Km radius of the study area. The noise
levels were measured once during the study period. These readings were later tabulated and the
51 July 2022
frequency distribution table was prepared. Finally, hourly and 24 hourly values for various noise
parameters viz. Lday and Lnight were calculated.
For noise levels measured over a given period of time, it is possible to describe important features of
noise using statistical quantities. This is calculated using the percent of the time certain noise levels
exceed the time interval. The notations for the statistical quantities of noise levels are described below:
L10 is the noise level exceeded 10 percent of the time,
L50 is the noise level exceeded 50 percent of the time and
L90 is the noise level exceeded 90 percent of the time.
Equivalent Sound Pressure Level (Leq)
The Leq is the equivalent continuous sound level, which is equivalent to the same sound energy as the
actual fluctuating sound measured in the same period. This is necessary because the sound from a
noise source often fluctuates widely during a given period of time. This is calculated from the following
equation: Leq = L50 + (L10 - L90)2/60
Parameters Measured During Monitoring
For noise levels measured over a given period of the time interval, it is possible to describe important
features of noise using statistical quantities. This is calculated using the percent of the time, certain
noise levels are exceeded during the time interval. The notation for the statistical quantities of noise
levels is described below:
Hourly Leq day: Equivalent noise levels between 6.00 hours to 22.00 hours.
Leq night: Equivalent noise levels between 22.00 hours to 6.00 hours.
3.8.4 Results
The summary of computed ambient noise level parameters like Lday and Lnight are presented in Table
3-9 and compared to the standards specified by CPCB mentioned. Graphical Representation of Noise
monitoring results is given in Figure 3-13.
Table 3-9:Ambient Noise Level Results
Location Leq day Leq Night LIMIT as per CPCB guidelines Leq dB (A)
Code [dB(A)] [dB(A)] Day Night
N1 45.1 35.9 55 45
N2 46.1 35.2 55 45
N3 44.2 36.0 55 45
N4 43.7 37.3 55 45
N5 42.2 34.8 55 45
N6 41.3 36.5 55 45
N7 42.3 36.8 55 45
N8 46.0 36.8 55 45
Note: Daytime shall mean from 6.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m., Night time shall mean from 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m.
52 July 2022
Zone Classification Lday dB(A) Lnight dB(A)

Industrial Area 75 70
Commercial Area 65 55
Residential Area 55 45
Silence Zone 50 40
3.8.5 Observations
Day time Noise Levels- Noise levels during daytime were found to be in the range 42.2 – 46.0 dB (A).
Night time Noise Levels- Noise levels observed to fall in the range 35.2 to 37.3 dB (A) during the night
time.
Measured noise levels are observed to be in compliance with prescribed standards for ambient noise
for the respective applicable categories except at monitoring location.
3.9 WATER ENVIRONMENT
The quality of ground and surface water is influenced by surface and sub-surface environmental
conditions. The quantity and quality of water entering the underground regime is another important
parameter which influences underground water quality. Water sampling has been conducted to
establish baseline water quality in the area. Water analysis was carried out for physical and chemical
parameters as per the methods prescribed in IS and “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water
and Wastewater (American Public Health Association)”. The water samples were collected as grab
samples and were analyzed for physical, chemical and biological characteristics.
3.9.1 Sampling Locations
The sampling locations were selected based on reconnaissance survey with the following
consideration:
 Location of water courses; and
 Location of residential areas representing different activities
The details of the water sampling (Ground & Surface) stations are presented in the Table 3-12 and
Figure 3-17
Table 3-10: Water monitoring Sampling locations
Monitoring
Type of Water
location Code
Ground Water
GW1 Tube well
GW2 Tube well
GW3 Tube well
GW4 Tube well
GW5 Tube well
GW6 Tube well
53 July 2022
Monitoring
Type of Water
location Code
GW7 Tube well
GW8 Tube well
Surface Water
SW1 Pond
SW2 Pond
SW3 River
SW4 Lake
SW5 Lake
54 July 2022
Table 3-11: Water Quality Monitoring Results

GW2 GW3 GW4
Limit as per IS 10500 :
S. No Parameters Unit Test Method GW1 Project Site East Side of the East Side of the East Side of the
2012
Project Site Project Site Project Site
Colour
1 Hazen IS 3025:1983 Part 4 5 1.00 1.20 1.40 1.50
Odour
2 - IS 3025:1984 Part 5 Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable
pH at 25°C IS : 3025 Part 11- 1983
3 - 6.5-8.5 5.56 5.80 6.10 5.90
(Reaff:2017)
Electrical Conductivity, IS : 3025 Part 14- 1984 (Reaff:
4 μS/cm Not Specified 91.0 98.0 101.0 93.0
2019)
Turbidity IS : 3025 Part 10-1984 (Reaff:
5 NTU 1 0.3 0.4 0.6 0.5
2017)
Total Dissolved Solids IS : 3025 Part 16-1984 (Reaff:
6 mg/l 500 58.0 68.0 74.0 70.0
2017)
Total Alkalinity as IS : 3025 Part 23-
7 mg/l 200 12.1 13.4 14.5 14.1
CaCO3 1986(Reaff:2019)
Total Hardness as IS : 3025 Part 21-2009 (Reaff:
8 mg/l 200 18.4 19.5 22.4 21.2
CaCO3 2019)
Chloride as Cl IS : 3025 Part 32-1988 (Reaff:
9 mg/l 250 14.9 15.7 18.3 16.4
2019)
Sulphate as SO4
10 mg/l APHA 23rd EDN -4500- SO42- E 200 2.4 3.2 4.8 3.6
Calcium as Ca IS : 3025 Part 40-1991
11 mg/l 75 4.8 5.4 6.8 6.1
(Reaff:2019)
Magnesium as Mg
12 mg/l APHA 23rd EDN Mg B 30 1.49 2.56 4.78 3.21
Iron as Fe
13 mg/l APHA 23rd EDN -3111 B 1 0.23 0.32 0.36 0.31
MPN/ Absent/
14 Total Coliforms IS 1622 (1981) (Reaff – 2014) Present Present Present Present
100ml 100ml
MPN/ Absent/
15 E coli IS 1622 (1981)(Reaff – 2014) Absent Absent Absent Absent
100ml 100ml
BDL- Below Detection Limit
55 July 2022
Water Quality Monitoring Results

GW 5 GW 6 GW7 GW8
S. Limit as per IS
Parameters Unit Test Method East Side of the South East Side of the South East Side of the South Side of the
No 10500 : 2012 Project Site Project Site Project Site Project Site
1 Colour Hazen IS 3025:1983 Part 4 5 1.20 1.34 1.25 1.30
2 Odour - IS 3025:1984 Part 5 Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable
pH at
3 25°C - IS : 3025 Part 11- 1983 6.5-8.5 6.70 6.30 6.20 6.40
(Reaff:2017)
Electrical IS : 3025 Part 14- 1984
4 μS/cm Not Specified 93.0 95.0 98.0 89.0
Conductivity, (Reaff: 2019)
Turbidity IS : 3025 Part 10-1984
5 NTU 1 0.2 0.4 0.5 0.4
(Reaff: 2017)
Total Dissolved Solids IS : 3025 Part 16-1984
6 mg/l 500 59.0 60.0 61.0 57.0
(Reaff: 2017)
Total Alkalinity as IS : 3025 Part 23-
7 mg/l 200 12.3 11.4 13.4 12.3
CaCO3 1986(Reaff:2019)
Total Hardness as IS : 3025 Part 21-2009
8 mg/l 200 18.6 18.8 18.9 17.1
CaCO3 (Reaff: 2019)
Chloride as Cl IS : 3025 Part 32-1988
9 mg/l 250 14.3 14.8 16.5 14.3
(Reaff: 2019)
Sulphate as SO4 APHA 23rd EDN -4500-
10 mg/l 200 2.5 3.5 4.2 2.2
SO42- E
Calcium as Ca IS : 3025 Part 40-1991
11 mg/l 75 4.2 4.8 5.4 3.8
(Reaff:2019)
12 Magnesium as Mg mg/l APHA 23rd EDN Mg B 30 1.45 1.56 1.89 1.35
13 Iron as Fe mg/l APHA 23rd EDN -3111 B 1 0.25 0.20 0.32 0.19
MPN/ IS 1622 (1981) (Reaff – Absent/

14 Total Coliforms Present Present Present Present
100ml 2014) 100ml
MPN/ IS 1622 (1981)(Reaff – Absent/
15 E coli Absent Absent Absent Absent
100ml 2014) 100ml
BDL- Below Detection Limit
56 July 2022
Table 3-12: Surface Water Results

Tolerance Limits For Inland SW1
S.No Parameters Unit Test method Surface Waters, (IS: 2296- Within the SW2 SW3 SW 4 SW 5
1982) CLASS – C Quarry Pit
1. Colour Hazen APHA 23rd EDN-2120 C 300 1 BDL(<1) 2 4 3
2. Odour - APHA 23rd EDN -2150 B Not Specified Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable
IS : 3025 Part 11- 1983 (Reaff:
3. pH at 25°C - 6.5 – 8.5 7.3 7.2 7.5 7.6 7.6
2017)
Electrical IS : 3025 Part 14- 1984 (Reaff:
4. μS/cm Not Specified 96 94 92 98 96
Conductivity 2019)
IS : 3025 Part 10-1984 (Reaff:
5. Turbidity NTU 1 0.1 0.3 0.2 0.4 0.3
2017)
Total Dissolved IS : 3025 Part 16-1984 (Reaff:
6. mg/l 1500 62.0 68.0 66.0 69.0 68.0
Solids 2017)
Total Hardness as IS : 3025 Part 21-1983 (Reaff: 24.5 26.7 26.4 27.2 26.5
7. mg/l Not Specified
CaCO3 2019)
Total Alkalinity as IS : 3025 Part 23- 1986(Reaff: 20.1 23.2 24.5 26.8 24.3
8. mg/l Not Specified
CaCO3 2019)
IS : 3025 Part 32-1988 (Reaff: 8.99 9.22 8.78 9.56 8.98
9. Chloride as Cl mg/l 600
2019)
10. Sulphate as SO4 mg/l APHA 23rd EDN - 4500- SO42- E 400 3.37 4.25 4.48 5.65 4.23
IS : 3025 Part 40-1991 (Reaff:

11. Calcium as Ca mg/l Not Specified 6.40 6.84 7.64 6.75 6.32
2019)
12. Magnesium as Mg mg/l APHA 23rd EDN 3500 Mg B Not Specified 1.99 2.24 2.89 3.24 2.56
IS : 3025 Part 53-2003(Reaff:
13. Iron as Fe mg/l Not Specified 0.19 0.22 0.26 0.27 0.24
2019)
MPN/
14. Total Coliform IS – 1622 -1981 (Reaff – 2019) 5000 Present Present Present Present Present
100ml
MPN/
15. Faecal Coliform IS – 1622-1981(Reaff – 2019) Not Specified Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent
100ml
BDL – Below Detectable Limit
57 July 2022
3.9.2 Results
3.9.2.1 Ground Water Quality
 The average pH ranges from 5.56 – 6.70
 TDS value varied from 58 mg/l to 74 mg/l
 Sulphate ranges from 2.4 mg/l – 4.8 mg/l
 Total hardness ranges are between 18.4 mg/l – 22.4 mg/l
 Total alkalinity ranges from 12.1 mg/l to 14.5 mg/l
 Calcium ranges from 4.8 mg/l to 6.8 mg/l
 Magnesium ranges from 1.49 mg/l to 4.78 mg/l
 Chloride ranges from 14.9 mg/l to 18.3 mg/l are well within the permissible limits.
 Most of the heavy metals concentrations in the study area samples are below detection limits
and all are well within the limits.
3.9.2.2 Surface Water Quality
 Colour: The colour of surface water samples was found in the range of BDL (<1) to 5 Hazen units.
 Odour: Surface water sample were found odourless.
 Turbidity: The turbidity of surface water sample was found in the range 0.1 NTU to 0.4 NTU
 pH: The pH value of all surface water sample ranges from 7.2 -7.6
 Electrical Conductivity: Electrical conductivity in surface water sample ranges from 92 - 98 μS/cm.
 Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): The TDS in surface water sample range from 62– 69 mg/l.
 Total Alkalinity: The total alkalinity of surface water sample range between 20.1 – 26.8 mg/l.
 Total Hardness: The total hardness of surface water sample range between 24.5 – 27.2 mg/l.
 Calcium: The Calcium content in surface water sample range from 6.4 – 7.6 mg/l.
 Magnesium: The Magnesium content in surface water sample range from 1.9 – 3.24 mg/l.
 Chloride: The chloride content in surface water sample range from 8.99 – 9.56 mg/l.
The results of surface water samples were compared to IS 2296:1962 CLASS – C Tolerance limits of
Surface water used for drinking and the results were within permissible limits for all parameters..
3.10 SOIL ENVIRONMENT
3.10.1 Soil Profile of District2
Soils have been classified into 1) Sandy soil 2) Sandy loam 3) Red loam 4) Clay 5) Clayey loam and 6)
2
Ministry of Water Resources, Central Ground Water Board - OCTOBER 2009.
58 July 2022
Black cotton soils. The red loamy soils are generally observed at the highest elevations whereas the
black cotton soils invariably occupy the valley areas. Other types of soils are found at Intermediate
elevations.
3.10.2 Soil analysis
The present study of the soil quality establishes the baseline characteristics and this will help in future
in identifying the incremental concentrations if any, due to the mining operation of the proposed
project. The sampling locations have been identified with the following objectives;
 To determine the baseline soil characteristics of the study area and
 To determine the impact of the proposed project activities within block on soil characteristics
Six (8) locations within the study area were selected for soil sampling. At each location, soil samples
were collected from three different depths viz., 30 cm, 60 cm and 100 cm below the surface. The
samples were analyzed for physical and chemical characteristics.
The results are presented in Table 3.17 and compared with Standard Soil Classification presented in
Table 3.18.
3.10.3 Results
The results of the soil analysis are tabulated in Table 3-18. Standard soil classification is given in Table
3-19.
59 July 2022
Table 3-13: Soil Quality Results

S.
Parameters Test Methods S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8
No.
IS -2720(Part 26) 1987(RA
1 pH 7.15 7.96 6.96 7.85 8.11 7.36 6.97 7.35
2011)
FAO Chapter 3,
2 Bulk Density, g/cc 1.41 1.19 1.37 1.32 1.21 1.36 1.39 1.30
ABCTL/SOIL/SOP 1
IS 2720 ( Part 2 ) : 1973, RA:
3 Moisture,% 4.74 6.11 4.13 5.28 5.74 3.61 4.15 5.28
2015
4 Electrical Conductivity, mS/cm IS -14767:2000 (RA 2010) 0.136 0.287 0.086 0.115 0.356 0.077 0.154 0.127
5 Total Nitrogen, kg/ha IS -14684:1999, Reaff:2008 174 297 248 197 287 228 185 203
FAO Chapter 3,
6 Available Phosphorous, kg/ha 16.8 31.9 22.8 38.7 40.4 18.6 24.8 33.9
ABCTL/SOIL/SOP 2
FAO Chapter 3,
7 Available Potassium, kg/ha 352 513 258 365 384 225 271 352
ABCTL/SOIL/SOP 7
FAO Chapter 3,
8 Exchangeable Calcium as Ca,m.eq/100g 10.3 17.6 11.5 13.2 16.5 9.8 10.7 12.4
ABCTL/SOIL/SOP 4
Exchangeable Magnesium as Mg, FAO Chapter 3,
9 3.69 4.52 2.71 3.84 5.04 4.05 3.17 3.82
m.eq/100g ABCTL/SOIL/SOP 5
FAO Chapter 3,
10 Exchangeable Sodium as Na, m.eq/100g 0.98 1.37 1.28 1.08 1.68 1.31 1.12 1.47
ABCTL/SOIL/SOP 6
11 Organic matter (%) IS 2720 (Part 22):1972, 0.75 1.24 0.96 1.12 1.52 0.88 0.69 1.19
12 Organic Carbon as C, % Reaff:2010

0.43 0.72 0.55 0.65 0.88 0.51 0.40 0.69
Sandy
Sandy
13 Texture Classification Loam Clay Loam Clay Loam Loam Clay
Clay Loam
Loam
14 Sand (%) Robinson Pipette Method 42.4 27.5 37.8 49.3 25.2 40.5 36.1 51.4
15 Clay (%) 21.6 55.8 24.7 26.5 56.3 23.8 26.7 28.6
16 Silt (%) 36 16.7 37.5 24.2 18.5 35.7 37.2 20
60 July 2022
The physic-chemical concentrations of the soil samples are determined and compared with the
standard soil classification provided by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and as given
in table 3-14.
Table 3-14: Standard Soil Classification
S.No Parameter Acceptable Values
<4.5 Extremely acidic
4.51-5.50 Very Strongly acidic
5.51-6.0 Moderately acidic
6.01-6.50 Slightly acidic
1. pH 6.51-7.30 Neutral
7.31-7.80 slightly alkaline
7.81-8.50 moderately alkaline
8.51-9.0 strongly alkaline
9.01 very strongly alkaline
Salinity Electrical Upto 1.00 Average
2 Conductivity (mS/cm) 1.01-2.00 harmful to germination
(640 ppm=1000 µS/cm) 2.01-3.00 harmful to crops (sensitive to salts)
Upto 1.0 : Very less
0.21-0.4 : less
0.41-0.5 : medium
3 Organic Carbon (%)
0.51-0.8 : On an average sufficient
0.81-1.00: Sufficient
>1.0 more than sufficient
Upto 50 very less
51-100 less
4 Nitrogen (Kg/ha) 101-150 good
151-300 better
>300 sufficient
Upto 15 Very less
16-30 less
31-50 medium
5 Phosphorus (Kg/ha)
51-65 on an average sufficient
66-80 sufficient
>80 more than sufficient
0-120 very less
120-180 less
180-240 medium
6 Potassium (Kg/ha)
240-300 average
300-360 better
>360 more than sufficient
Source: Handbook of Agriculture, ICAR, New Delhi
3.10.4 Observation
 The pH values ranging from 7.15 to 8.11 indicating the moderate and ideal of plant growth
properties.
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 The texture of the soil sample is predominantly Loam in most of the places with Clay Loam &
Clay in some locations. The sand, silt and clay properties were found to be in the range of 25.2
to 51.4%, 16.7 to 37.5 % and 21.6 to 55.8%.
 The conductivity of the soil ranges from 0.077 mS/cm to 0.356 mS/cm.
 The moisture content in the study locations ranged from 3.61 % to 6.11 %.
 The available nitrogen content ranges between 174 kg/Ha to 297 kg/Ha in the locality and the
value of phosphorus content varies between 16.8 kg/Ha to 40.4 kg/Ha. This indicates that the
soil has very high quantities of Nitrogen and Phosphorus.
 The potassium content varies from 225 kg/Ha to 384 kg/Ha, which indicates that the soils have
medium levels of potassium.
 The organic carbon properties of the soil was found to be in the range of 0.40 % to 0.88 % and
Organic Matter was found to be in the range of 0.69 % to 1.52 %.
From the above observations, it was found that the soil in the Study area shows moderate fertility and
ideal for plant growth.
3.11 ECOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT
Ecosystem shows complex inter-relationships between biotic and abiotic components leading to
dependence, competition and mutualism. Biotic components comprise both plant and animal
communities, interacting not only within and between themselves but also with the abiotic
components of the environment. The map showing the bio-geographic provinces of India is shown in
Figure Below
This study has been carried out during December 2019 to February 2020 of study period for the
purpose of providing an independent and comprehensive baseline assessment of the flora, terrestrial
vertebrate, aquatic fauna and associated habitat values of the site and within block area and a
subsequent assessment of potential ecological impacts. The study area falls under semi-arid category
as far as the Indian biogeographically zones are concerned. Under the biogeographically provinces, the
study area falls under the category of 6E. The study area does not have any forest land or permanent
natural vegetation and the main land use feature of the study area is comprised habitation and
cultivating lands.
62 July 2022
Figure 3-1: Map showing the Bio-geographic Provinces of India

3.11.1 Methodology Adopted for the Study
Terrestrial investigations for flora and fauna records were collected by random field survey and a
checklist was prepared. During field survey, discussions with the local people were carried-out to
collect information related to local biodiversity in and around the villages. The ecological status of the
study area has been assessed based on the following methodology:
 Primary field surveys to establish primary baseline of the study area;
 Compilation of secondary information available in published literatures/ working plan was
referred from State Forest Department.
 Site Verification and finalization in consultation with local inhabitants.
 Vegetation analysis through quadrate method using sampling plots of 20m x 20m.
 20m X 20m for tree species (record trees >20 cm in GBHOB /species);
 5m X 5m [four plots] was laid along diagonals wherein all the shrubs recorded.
 1m X 1m [five plots], one at the center and four at one per quadrate was laid and herbs,
grasses in five plots to be noted.
A. Floral Study
The assessment of the flora of the study area is done by an extensive field survey of the area.
 Plants species were identified based on their specific diagnostics characters of family, genus
63 July 2022
and species using available floral, other related literature.

 Besides the identification of plant species, information was collected on the vernacular names
and uses of plants made by local inhabitants.
 Qualitative analysis of vegetation is made by two different methods such as floristic (by simple
studying various genera and species of various plant groups i.e. herbs, shrubs, trees etc.)
B. Phyto-sociology
A nested quadrates technique was used for sampling the vegetation. All the plots sampled were
representative of most common types, sampling 20m x 20m for trees and 5m x 5m for shrubs, 1m x
1m for herbs square meter quadrates were laid. Selection of sites for sampling of vegetation is done
by random sampling procedure. However, in general to study the Phyto-sociological attributes,
quadrates of 20m × 20m size for tree species are randomly laid out at each site at different elevations.
Then the observation on the following parameters is recorded:
1. Name of the species.
2. Number of the occurrence of each species in each quadrate.
3. Vegetation data was quantitatively analyzed for frequency, density and dominance using
standard methodologies.
4. The relative values of frequency, density, and dominance of all the recorded species was
summed up to represent Importance Value Index (IVI).
IVI = Relative frequency + Relative density + Relative dominance
C. Faunal Study
Ground surveys are carried out by trekking the study area for identification of important animal groups
such as birds, mammals and reptiles for sampling of animals through the following methods.
 For sampling birds/ avifauna ‘point sampling’ along the fixed transects (foot trails) were done to
record all the species of birds with the help of binoculars; field guides and photography for more
than 1 hour on each transect (n=4).
 For sampling mammals, ‘direct count on open width (20 m) transect’ were used on the same
transects. Besides, information on recent sightings/records of mammals by the locals was also
collected from the study areas.
 ‘Reptiles’ mainly lizards were sampled by ‘direct count on open width transects’.
 Secondary information collected from local villagers, published government data etc.
List of the endangered and endemic species as per the schedule of The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
Emphasis is given to identify avifauna and mammals to determine the presence and absence of
Schedule-1 species, listed in The Wildlife Protection Act 1972, as well as in Red List of IUCN. Various
64 July 2022
methods used for study animals are as follows:

1. Point Survey Method: Observations were made at each site for 15-20 min duration.
2. Road Side Counts: The observer travelled by motor vehicles from site to site and all sightings
were recorded.
3.11.2 Flora
No distinguishing varieties are observed in the study area. Mostly the species observed are small trees
and bushes. The commonly observed tree species include Azadiractaindica and Borassus flabelliform.
The natural flora is affected by the high temperature and poor rainfall. The species observed in the
study area are given in Table 3-19.
Table 3-15: List of flora reported/observed in the study area
S. No Scientific name Family name Vernacular name IUCN status
1 Moringaoleifera Moringaceae Muringa NA
2. Ricinuscommunis Euphorbiaceae Avanakk NA
3. Azadirachtaindica Meliaceae Vembu LC
4. Cocosnucifera Arecaceae Thengu NA
5. Tamarindusindica Fabaceae Puli LC
6. Arecacatechu Arecaceae Kavungu NA
8. Calotropisprocera Apocyanaceae Vellaierukku NA
7. Musa acuminate Musaceae Vazha NA
8. Mangifera indica Anacardiaceae Maavu NA
9. Verbenaceae Verbenas Unni Chedi EN
10 Millettia Legumes Pungam NA
11 Cassiafistula Golden Shower Kanikkkonna NA
LC- Least Concern, NA-Not yet assessed, EN-Endangered.
3.11.3 Fauna
With regards to Fauna, no special and distinguishing variety is available. But the western region,
particularly the mountainous tracts possess some wild animals. Bison is seen in small number. Fauna
observed in the study area is given below in Table 3-20.
Table 3-16: List of Fauna Reported/Observed in the Study area
S.No Scientific name Vernacular name IUCN status
Amphibians
1. Ranahexadactyla Common frog NA
2. Ranatigrina Bull frog NA
Reptiles
3. Calotesverticolor Garden lizard NA
Mammalia
4 Bos Taurus Cow NA
5 Capra aegagrus hircus Goat NA
Invertebrates
6 Anaxjunius Dragon flies LC
65 July 2022
S.No Scientific name Vernacular name IUCN status

7 Araneusdiadematus Spider NA
*LC- Least Concern, NA-Not yet assessed
3.12 SOCIOECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

Major developmental activities in industrial sector are required for economical development as well as
creation of employment opportunities (direct / indirect) and to meet the basic / modern needs of the
society, which ultimately results in overall improvement of quality of life through economical, health,
education nutrition status in project region, state as well as the country. The proposed project is also
expected to generate/discharge different types of pollutants in the surrounding environment. They
may cause natural resource degradation, ecological and human health risks, unless the development
is planned properly and implemented in an environmentally sustainable manner through
implementation of pollution prevention, mitigation and control measures. In this manner all
developmental projects have direct as well as indirect relationship with socioeconomic aspect, which
also include public acceptability for new projects. Thus, the study of socio-economic component
incorporating various facets related to prevailing social and cultural conditions and economic status of
the project region is an important part of EIA study. The study of socio-economic component
incorporating various facts related to socio-economic condition in the area is an integral part of EIA
process. This includes demographic structure, population dynamics, infrastructure resources, health
status of the community and economic attributes refers to employment, industrial development and
sustainability of the project in view of financial terms.
Project importance to the Country & Region
It is a basic raw material required for manufacturing industries improving the construction activities
like buildings, road, bridges infrastructure etc. The requirement for these minerals is always high in the
nearby cities, towns and villages. Also, the project will generate direct and indirect employment
opportunities to the nearby villages. Economy of the area will get a boost and there will overall growth
of the region. Also the management of Mining will conduct medical camps at regular interval for
villagers and labours. The CSR activity will improve the overall development of the area such as
providing infrastructure like school furniture, water tankers etc.
3.12.1 Methodology
A judgmental and purposive sampling method was used for choosing respondents of various sections
of the society i.e. Sarpanch, adult males and females, teachers, medical practitioners, businessmen,
agriculture labourers, unemployed group etc. Judgmental and purposive sampling method includes the
right cases from the total population that helps to fulfill the purpose of study needs
66 July 2022
 Data Collection Method

In order to assess and evaluate the likely impacts arising out of any proposed projects on socio-
economic environment, it is necessary to gauge the apprehensions of the people in the project area.
For the process of data collection through primary and secondary sources certain methods are used
are given below:
 Field Survey and Observations
Field survey and observations is made at each sampling villages and the quality of life of that region is
studied. Visits are made at hospitals, primary health centers and sub-centers to know the health status
of the region. Various governmental organizations such as statistical department, department of
census operations are visited to collect the population details of that region
 Interview Method
Structured interview method is used to collect data regarding the awareness and opinion from the
sample selected of the various socio-economic sections of the community. Structured interviews
involve the use of a set of predetermined questions that includes fixed and alternative questions. The
questionnaire mainly highlights the parameters such as income, employment and working conditions,
housing, food, clothing, water supply, sanitation, health, energy, transportation and communication,
education, environment and pollution to assess the quality of life of that particular region and general
awareness and opinion of the respondents about the project. Interview method helps to collect more
correct and accurate information as the interviewer is presented during the field survey. The
respondents were asked for their awareness / opinion about the project and also the impacts of the
project which is an important aspect of socio-economic environment, viz. job opportunities, education,
health care, transportation facility and economic status.
 Review of Secondary sources
As per the scope of this study, the information on socio-economic aspects has been gathered and
compiled from several secondary sources. These include Taluk Office, Collectorate, Agriculture
Department, Irrigation Department, Central Ground Water Board, Directorate of Census Operation,
Tamil Nadu etc. The demographic data have mainly been compiled from the Census of India 2011.
3.12.2 Demographic Structure
The demographic structure of the study area was derived primarily from data of Census record of
Krishnagiri covering one district and three taluka of Tamil Nadu state. The Demographic structures of
each village in the study area as per Census 2011 are presented in Table 3-19
67 July 2022
Table 3-17: Summary of Demographic Structure in Study Area

S.No Demographic Parameters Study Area Details
1 Name of state Kerala
2 Name of District Thrissur
3 Name of Taluka Mukundapuram
4 No. of Total Villages 33
5 Total No. of Households 2,10,491
6 Total Population 8,31,363
7 Male Population 3,96,592
8 Female Population 4,34,771
9 Sex ratio (No. of female/1000 males) 1,096
10 Scheduled castes 97,697
11 Scheduled Tribes 3,893
12 Literate 95.38%
13 Main Worker 257,064
14 Marginal Worker 51,869
15 Non Worker 522,430
The salient features of Socio-economic Profile are as follows:

The salient features of Demographic Structure are as follows:
 The study area covers Thrissur District in Kerala State, Mukundapuram Taluk and total 33
villages in the study area. With the population density of 8,31,363 person.Total population in
the study region (as per Census 2011) is 8,31,363 with 3,96,592 male and 4,34,771 female
populations. Overall sex ratio is 1096 Female per 1000 male, indicating male population is
marginally higher in the region as compared with the female.
 Total Scheduled Caste population is 97,697 Scheduled Caste.
 Total Scheduled Tribe population is 3,893.
3.12.3 Socio-economic Structure
The socio-economic details are briefly described in the following sections. This section includes the
present status of the Socio-Economic Environment in the study area. To determine the baseline socio-
economic pattern, in and around the project site, the required data have been obtained from the
published data. Socio-economic baseline data was collected based on the following indicators:
 Economic Structure
 Availability of Basic Amenities
The major economic structure of the study area is classified into the population, literacy rate and
workers details, economic and industry details, etc.
Education: All villages in the study area have education facilities such as primary school with reasonably
good facilities. In the study is school/institute for secondary/higher secondary education facilities and
68 July 2022
technical institute are available. Students have opportunity to travel also for better education.
Public Health Services: Almost villages in the study area are having medical facilities. While conducting
surveys, out of this area some villages Health facility and other villages having private clinic, hospital
are there for better medical treatment, the people move to nearby town and district of Thrissur, where
Government hospital, private hospital, clinic etc, medical facilities are available.
Drinking Water: In surveyed all villages, it was found that people are using open well for drinking
purposes; however, pond water also used of other purpose. There is no drinking water problem.
Power Supply: Electricity is available in all the surveyed villages. During the survey it was found that
there is negligible load shedding. All purpose is using Electricity facility in the study area. Electricity use
in the study area is all purposes.
Communication and Transportation: All villages having good road facility in the study area. It was
observed that there is enough bus service and primarily buses run in the whole day, on the
Marathakkara Marottichal Road as well as the nearest highway. Regular local transport facility is
available in the villages, like auto rickshaw and Taxis. All villages having good road connectivity in the
study area.
Road Approach: All villages are having road, approach routes either paved road and foot path. Thrissur
is well-connected by roads like other districts of Kerala State
Banks: All centralized bank in all Taluks of Thrissur District. People are using bank facility for saving
money.
Gram Panchayat: The gram Panchayat, Panchayat Union and Tahsildar are the three responsible
functionaries in the decentralization of administration, which are entrusted with the implementation
of developmental schemes in the State for five-year plans and to provide for decentralization of powers
and functions under certain enactments was passed in 1961.
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4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND

MITIGATION MEASURES
4.1 INTRODUCTION
Proper emphasis on environment is must for sustainable development. Environment and development
should be considered as mutually complementary, interdependent, and an instrument of reinforcing
the quality of life. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is the most important aspect of overall
environmental management strategy. It identifies major impacts of industry on environment and
provides the guidelines to prepare the necessary control measure termed as Environment
Management Plan (EMP).
4.2 OBJECTIVES OF EIA
EIA is the study of existing environment and estimation of potential effects due to mining activities. To
predict the expected impacts of various activities on the different environmental parameters, a
detailed survey of the factors is performed and identification of probable impacts are done by different
techniques. This chapter provides a brief overview of the potential impacts on various environmental
components due to the proposed Building Stone quarry operations and allied activities, which could
cause significant environmental concerns. Various possible environmental impacts, which have been
identified due to the proposed the Building Stone quarry, are discussed in the following sections.
4.3 SOURCE OF POLLUTION
The impacts due to mining operation and its mitigation measures adopted are detailed in this chapter.
In general, the opencast mining operations cause environmental problems such as degradation of land,
deteriorating air, water and soil quality, affecting the biological and socio-economic environment of
the area, if adequate control measures are not taken to prevent/mitigate the adverse environmental
impacts, these operations may cause irreversible damage to the eco-system.
The opencast mining operations involve development of benches, approach roads, haul roads, blasting,
excavation and handling & transportation of materials. If adequate control measures are not taken to
prevent/mitigate the adverse environmental impacts, these operations may cause environmental
degradation and lead to irreversible damage to the ecosystem. Various environmental impacts, which
have been identified due to the proposed project, are discussed in the following sections. The
environmental parameters most commonly affected by mining activities are
 Air quality including Climate
 Noise levels and ground vibrations
 Water resources and quality
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 Land use Pattern

 Soil quality
 Flora and Fauna
 Socio-Economic conditions
 Occupational Health.
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Table 4-1 Impact Prediction Matrix for Proposed Project Activities
Occupational Health & Safety

Common Property Resources
Disruption on infrastructure
Community Health & Safety

Loss of crop/agriculture
Topography & Drainage
Ecology & Biodiversity
Job Opportunities
Population influx
Ground Water
Surface Water
Aesthetics
Land use
Traffic
Noise
Soil
Activities
Air
Pre Mining activities
Site preparation       
access road widening/strengthening       
Sourcing & transportation of borrow material etc          
Storage and handling of mining waste   
Transportation of heavy machineries      
Consumption of water for mining & domestic use for 

worker
Generation of domestic solid waste & disposal    
Generation of waste water & discharge from mining  

activity & worker camp
Surface run-off from mining site   

Mining Activities
Storage and disposal of mine cuttings & waste     
Surface run-off from mine site  
Generation of domestic waste water & discharge  
Workforce engagement & accommodation at mine site    
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4.3.1 Impact on Climate

Temperature: The average, monthly minimum and maximum temperatures have been monitored at
the proposed project site and also analyzed based on the data from nearest IMD station. The trend of
temperature shows a regular cyclic pattern. The temperature pattern indicates a regional behavior.
The proposed project will not create any changes in the thermal pattern of the surroundings.
Rainfall: The proposed mining operations are not expected to have any adverse impact on the rainfall
pattern of the area as the impacts will be at micro-level.
Wind Speed: The wind speeds of any area depend on the existence of elevations and depressions in
the region. The proposed project will not change the topography and the landscape. However,
increment in the heights of the dumps by marginal level is anticipated which will be confined at local
level and may not affect the wind pattern.
Humidity: The relative humidity in the area is likely to change insignificantly because of the mining
operations, as it will not cause any changes in the prevailing temperatures and rainfall of the region.
4.3.2 Land Environment
The Proposed Granite Building Stone mines over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey No. 66 of
Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State for 5 years. The Government of
Tamil Nadu issued the precise area communication letter to furnish the approved Mining Plan under
Kerala Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2015.
 Land Degradation
The impact on land pattern in the area has been and will be due to
 Land degradation due to disposal of large volume of waste materials.
 Creation of infrastructural facilities like office, rest shelter, first-aid center and other service
facilities.
 Exposure of topsoil to wind and water erosion.
4.3.2.1 Mitigation Measures

 Dust suppression on exposed areas using automatic sprinkling systems
 Contour overburden dump to minimize erosion
 Plantation around service building, along road, in and around safety zone using native plant
sapling.
 Compliance with mine decommissioning plan.
The following precautions will be taken to reduce the risk of dump failure:
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 OB benches will be made of <10m height in each tier. Angle of repose of OB dump to be around
25°.
 Drainage control structures like garland drain to be made around OB dump area to avoid water
flow during monsoon below the OB dump.
 Leveling, grading and drainage arrangement for top of OB dumps.
 Technical and biological reclamation.
 To improve its quality, soil stabilizers shall be mixed and leguminous plantation will be done over
these stacks.
 After complete extraction of estimated reserves of Rough Stone, the deeper working pits, left as it
is, this would serve as water ponds/water reservoirs.
 The quarried pits after the end of the life of lease will be fenced to prevent inherent entry of public
and cattle.
 Progressive year-wise green belt development inside and outside the lease area.
4.3.3 Air Environment
4.3.3.1 Meteorological Data
The site specific meteorological data for a month in May 2022 was obtained from secondary
sources and processed in AERMET to plot wind rose diagram (Figure 4-1). Other data included for
AERMET were daily wind speed, wind direction, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure,
precipitation, and solar radiation recorded during the period. AERMET reformats meteorological
data so that it can be used as input for AERMOD model.
The main source of air pollution is from open cast mining activities is dust generation from excavation
of rough stone, movement of vehicles for transportation of product to consumers, drilling, loading and
unloading operation and wind erosion of dumps and also gaseous emission due to operation of diesel
driven mining equipment. The sources of air emission are detailed below in Table 4.3.
Table 4-2: Sources of air pollution at quarry
S. No Source of Emission Pollutant
1. Excavation of Granite Building Stone PM
2. Operation of diesel driven equipment Gaseous emission
3. Transportation of mined Reserve PM
Base line data reveals that ambient air quality in the study area for the Parameters PM, SO2& NO2, are
well within the permissible Limits as prescribed by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)
for Industrial Area, Residential, Rural & Other areas.
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The major air pollution sources from the mining operations are mining activities like drilling, and
transportation are temporary and short term, by using the necessary technology for the drilling and
mitigation measures the particulate emission generation will be insignificant.
4.3.3.2 Air quality Impact Predictions (AQIP)
The major sources of Air pollution due to the proposed mine is dust generation due to, excavation,
loading and transportation of mineral, wind erosion of exposed material. The pollutants released into
the atmosphere will disperse in the down wind direction and finally reach the ground at further
distance from the source. The concentration of ground level mainly depends upon the concentration,
exit velocity, temperature of the emission source and micrometeorology of the study area.
Prediction of particulate emissions, ISC-AERMOD View 8.8.9 model was used to predict changes in air
quality i.e., maximum ground level concentration (GLC’s) of PM10 due to the proposed mining activity.
The inputs required for the model is:
 Hourly meteorological data
 Source data
 Receptor data
 Programme control parameters
In order to estimate the ground level concentrations due to the emission from the proposed project,
EPA approved Industrial Source Complex ISC AERMOD View Model has been employed. The
mathematical model used for predictions on air quality impact in the present study is ISC-AERMOD
View 8.8.9. It is the next generation air dispersion model, which incorporates planetary boundary layer
concepts.
4.3.3.3 Potential Impact and Mitigation Measures on Air Quality
Source of Pollution: The probable sources of impact on ambient air quality during different phase of
the project are listed below.
o Mining Process
o Operation of mining equipment’s
o Vehicular emissions
Embedded Control Measures: Project embedded control measures are as follows:
Assessment of Impact: The potential impact due to above mentioned activities has been discussed in
following section.
Emissions from Vehicles/Equipment: Heavy vehicles will be particularly intense during site preparation
and decommissioning phases. Gaseous pollutants such as NOx, PM10 and CO are likely to be emitted
from operation of vehicles and machineries.
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In order to predict the Ground Level Concentrations (GLCs) at various distances from the source, of the
above-mentioned pollutants, an air quality modelling exercise has been undertaken and is discussed
in the impact prediction section below.
The input parameters considered during the mining phase in the impact prediction modelling
undertaken using AERMOD is given in Table 4-4. Prediction of impacts on air environment has been
carried out employing mathematical model based on a steady state Gaussian plume dispersion model
designed for multiple point sources for short term. In the present case, AERMOD Dispersion Model
based on steady state Gaussian plume dispersion, designed for multiple point sources for short term
and developed by United States Environmental Protection Agency [USEPA] has been used for
simulations from point sources.
Table 4-3: Input Details
Emission rate (g/s)
Emission Sources
PM
Mining Process/Equipment’s 0.0000619
Table 4-4: Emission Details

Emission rate (g/s)
Emission Sources
PM NOx Co
Vehicular Emissions 0.0013 0.018 0.0012
The ground level concentrations are computed for 24-hr average. The combined ground level
concentrations of PM10 and NOx from the different mining activities at different nearby locations
within the study for study period are given in Table 4.5 The maximum GLC’s were falling within the
lease area for the given meteorological and topographical conditions.
The ground level concentration will not increase significantly the concentration of PM10; NOx values
are well below the standards prescribed by CPCB for ambient air quality.
4.3.3.4 Mitigation measures
 Use of dust aprons on drilling equipment and adopting wet drilling methods.
 Delay blasting under unfavorable wind and atmospheric conditions
 The production of blast fumes containing noxious gases will be reduced by the following
methods:
 Use of adequate booster/primer
 Proper stemming of the blast hole.
 Drills fitted with dust collection system to be deployed or using wet drilling
method.
 Development of greenbelt.
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Table 4-5: Fugitive dust control in mine

S.No Activities Best practices
1 Drilling Drills should be provided with dust extractors (dry or wet system)
2 Blasting Water spray before blasting
Water spray on blasted material prior to transportation
Use of controlled blasting technique
3 Transportation of mined Covering of the trucks/dumpers to avoid spillage
material Compacted haul road
Speed control on vehicles
Development of a green belt of suitable width on both sides of road,
which acts as wind break and traps fugitive dust
Table 4-6: Dust Control Measures in Quarry
S.No Operation or source Control options
1 Drilling Liquid injection (water or water plus a wetting agent)
Capturing and venting emissions to a control device.
3 Loading Water Spray
4 Hauling (emissions from Water spray, treatment with surface agents, soil stabilization,
roads) paving, traffic control.
5 Windblown dust from Oiling surface active agents, soil stabilization, paving, sweeping.
roads
4.3.3.5 Conclusion
It was observed that the maximum concentration observed due to mining operations for PM, and
NOx are 6.056 µg/m3 and 0.147 µg/m3. So it can be concluded that even after the operation of
mines the impact envisaged is minimum. The total increase in concentrations above baseline
status is estimated and the percentage increase.
4.3.4 Impacts due to Transportation
The above-mentioned emission rates are uncontrolled emissions. Due to installation and operation of
dust control measures at mining site, emission sources at different elevations, the emissions will be far
less than the established emissions.
The increment in the dust emissions will be mainly due to transportation activity. Therefore, emissions
due to mineral handling during mining operation are not much and restricted to the lease area only.
Proper mitigation measures are practiced during mining activities to control air pollution load below
the prescribed limits are as follows:
 Regular water sprinkling on haul and access roads.
 Haul roads to be maintained by surface grading to minimize excessive road surface wearing.
 Watering of haul roads and other roads at regular intervals.
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 Provision of green belt by vegetation for trapping dust.

 Greenbelt development along the haul roads, dumps and along the boundaries of the lease
area.
 Utmost care will be taken to prevent spillage of stone from the trucks.
4.3.5 Water Environment
The existing water quality has been studied and the study results are discussed in Chapter-3, which
show that generally the water quality in the area is well within statutory standards. The major sources
of water pollution due to this quarry operation will be as below:
 Domestic effluent from the mine.
 Wastewater from Machineries cooling
 Mine discharge water pumped out from the mines
 Reduction in ground water availability
 Due to poor aquifer condition the impact on water level will be confined to few hundred.
 Deterioration in surface / ground water quality of receiving body.
 Reduction in surface and groundwater availability for domestic and for irrigation purposes.
 Changes to hydraulic regime.
4.3.5.1 Wastewater Generation
There is no process effluent generation; the negligible quantity of domestic sewage will be generated
and is disposed through septic tank.
a) Surface Water Pollution Control Measures
 Construction of garland drains of suitable size around mine area and dumps to prevent rain
water descent into active mine areas.
 During monsoon season, the rain water is being collected by natural slope of area to water
fed tank of the mine and it will be utilized for dust suppression and greenbelt development.
 The dump tops will be provided with inner slopes to control water flow to prevent erosion
washouts. The dumps tops and slopes of active areas will be covered with grasses, shrubs,
mulching, etc., to prevent erosion, till final backfilling of dumps into mined out areas.
 Retaining walls of adequate dimensions will be provided at the top of dumps and the
unstable OB benches within the mine to prevent wash off from dumps and sliding of
material from benches. This will help in preventing silting of water drains/channels
 The water channels/drains carrying the rain water from the mine will be provided with
78 July 2022
baffles and settling pits to arrest the suspended solids, if any, present in this water
 The worked out slopes will be stabilized by planting appropriate shrub/grass species on the
slopes.
 The mine water will be regularly tested for presence of any undesirable elements and
appropriate measures will be taken in case any element is found exceeding the limits
prescribed by CPCB.
b) Ground Water Pollution Control Measures
 The domestic sewage from the toilets will be routed to septic tanks.
 Regular monitoring of water levels and quality in the existing open wells and bore well in
the vicinity will be carried out.
4.3.5.3 Rain Water Harvesting
 The rainwater is being diverted towards the middle of the mine to prevent water entering
the mine working. The rainwater flows will also contain fines both from surface and waste
dumps during seasonal flows. As such, it is being proposed to have structures in such a
way to act as settling pond and also for rainwater harvesting.
 Construct barriers at suitable intervals along the path of the drains.
 Divert the water to de-silting cum rainwater harvesting pond in the mine area.
 Provide necessary overflow arrangement to maintain the natural drainage system.
4.3.5.4 Drainage pattern and Hydrogeology
 Catchment area inside the mine will be affected.
4.3.5.5 Mitigation measures
The study has recommended new alignment in line with upstream drainage slope of the area to
facilitate smooth entry of water into the diversion channel and ultimate discharge of water into the
original stream. No reduction in surface run-off is envisaged.
4.3.6 Impact of Noise
Potential impact on noise quality is anticipated from vehicular movement, operation of mining
machinery, access road strengthening during well site preparation and operation of mining holes and
ancillary equipment during operation.
The potential impacts on noise quality may arise out of the following:
4.3.6.1 Identification of Noise Sources and measurement of Noise
The most important noise sources in mines are excavators, drilling machines and tipper. All these
different sound sources which contribute overall noise in and around the mines are identified and
categorized it as a point source, line source, moving source and area source. The choice of source type
79 July 2022
whether the particular heavy machine is of point, line, area or moving source depends on source
receiver distance. Heavy machines like tippers are moving sources of noise in mines. In contrast, certain
sources are stationary, e.g., drill machines. Drilling machines and excavators were considered as point
sources and belt conveyors were represented as line source (Table 4-8).
Table 4-7: Noise sources in the study area*
Sources Equipment Total Nos.
Jack Hammer 6
Point Source
Excavator/Drilling 1
Line Source Leyland Tipper/ Trucks 1
*Note: Equipment distribution is shown as required in one shift
In addition, meteorological parameters like temperature, wind speed, wind angle and humidity were
collected.
4.3.6.2 Impact of Noise on Working Environment
Jack Hammer and the Tractor Compressor and Drilling machine would be the main sources of noise
pollution during the mining activity. Noise due to vehicular movement will be intermittent but will also
add to the background noise levels. The well site during excavation phase of the site preparation where
heavy earth moving machinery will be in operation, noise level of the vehicle should not be more than
the 90 dB (A). Typically, the noise generating sources for the mining activity are provided below (in the
immediate vicinity) 3
 Jack Hammer: 95 to 100 dB (A)
 Excavator/Drilling: 85-95 dB (A)
 Tipper/Trucks: 45-50 dB (A)
In order to predict ambient noise levels due to the proposed mining area. The preparative
modeling has been done. The main sources of noise in the mine are as follows:
 Transportation vehicles
 Loading & unloading of minerals.
 Drilling
4.3.6.3 Modeling for Noise Emissions
For dispersion modeling of noise, standard mathematical model for sound wave propagation have
been used. The sound pressure level generated by noise sources decrease with increase in distance
3
Application of noise mapping in an Indian opencast mine for effective noise management. Veena Manwar1 , Bibhuti Bhusan
Mandal2 Asim Kumar Pal3,National Institute of Miners’ Health, Department of Occupational Hygiene, Nagpur, India
2 National Institute of Miners’ Health, Department of Occupational Hygiene, Nagpur, India
3 Indian Institute of Technology-Indian School of Mines (IIT-ISM), Department of Environmental Science and Engineering,
Dhanbad, India.
80 July 2022
from the source due to wave divergence. An additional decrease in sound pressure level from the
source is expected due to atmospheric effect or its interaction with objects in the transmission path.
For hemispherical sound wave propagation through homogeneous loss free medium, one can
estimated noise levels at various locations due to different sources using model based on first
principles, as per the following equation.
Noise (Receptor) = Noise (Source) - 20 Log [distance (Receptor) /distance (Source)]
The combined effect of all the sources then can be determined at various locations by the following
equation:
Lp (total) = 10 Log (10(Lp1/10) +10(Lp2/10) +10(Lp3/10) ……………… (1)
Where Lp1, LP2, LP3 are noise pressure levels at a point due to different sources.
For an approximate estimation of dispersion of noise in the ambient from the source point, a standard
mathematical model for sound wave propagation is used. For the modeling purposes, flat terrain is
considered and environmental attenuation factors are not considered.
4.3.6.4 Noise due to Drilling, Excavation and Transportation
The noise levels in the working environment will be maintained within the standards prescribed by
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These standards were established with the
emphasis on reducing the hearing loss. The permissible limits, as laid down by OSHA, are presented in
Table 4.8
Table 4-8: Permissible Exposure in Cases of Continuous Noise (OSHA, Govt. of India)
S.No Sound Level (dB A) Continuous Duration (Hours)
1 85 8
2 88 4
3 91 2
4 94 1
5 97 0.5
6 100 0.25
4.3.6.5 Noise Due to Blasting
Blasting activities are involved in this Quarry as green belt will be developed around the mine which
restricts the propagation of noise. The main sources of noise in quarrying activity are drilling &
Excavator operations. Following mitigation measures should be taken to control noise pollution.
 Wherever the noise levels exceed 85 dB (A), workers should be provided with earmuffs, ear
plugs etc.
 All vehicles and machinery will be properly lubricated and maintained regularly.
 Speed of the Vehicles entering and leaving the quarrying lease will be limited to 25 kmph.
 Unnecessary use of horns by the drivers of the vehicles shall be avoided.
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4.3.6.6 Noise Impact Analysis on Community

In residential area day time noise levels varied from 49.7 dB (A) to 56.3 dB (A) and night time noise
levels varied from 41.9dB (A) to 47 dB (A) across the sampling stations. The field observations during
the study period indicate that the ambient noise levels in Residential area are all well within the limits.
In summary, it can be stated that the impact on the present noise levels due to mining operations will
be restricted to the work zone areas only. The impact on the ambient noise levels will not be felt at the
settlement areas due to masking effect with the existing noise levels. Hence, the noise levels impact
due to the mining operations on community is insignificant.
4.3.6.7 Noise Model for sound wave propagation during operation.
Noise modeling for the project site from Jack Hammer: In the proposed project, Jack Hammer are used
during the operational phase in a mine Site. Noise model software has been assigned the noise value
of 100 dB(A) for Jack Hammer. As per the primary baseline study conducted at the site, average
temperature is 30°C and relative humidity is 50%, same has been considered in the noise modeling.
From the noise modeling the mining area is expected to receive a noise level maximum of
around 55.53 dB (A). This noise modeling has been carried out considering worst conditions, in actual,
the noise level is expected to be very less than the calculated value.
Noise modeling for the project site from Excavator/Drilling: In the proposed project, Excavator are used
during the operational phase in a mine site. Noise model software has been assigned the noise value
of 95 dB(A) for excavator. As per the primary baseline study conducted at the site, average temperature
is 30°C and relative humidity is 40%, same has been considered in the noise modeling.
Figure 4-1: Noise Model Showing Noise levels from the Excavator
From the noise modeling the mining area is expected to receive a noise level of around 44.95
dB (A). This noise modeling has been carried out considering worst conditions, in actual, the noise level
is expected to be very less than the calculated value.
Line Source Model
Noise modeling for the project site for Tippers/Trucks:
Vehicular traffic is the primary source of noise impact in the mining site. Noise model software
has been assigned the noise value of 85 dB(A) for Tippers. In the proposed project 4 Nos of Tata Tippers
have been proposed to meet the requirement of mining quantity. As per the primary baseline study
conducted at the site, average temperature is 30°C and relative humidity is 80%, same has been
considered in the noise modeling. Figure showing noise modeling for the project site from Tippers is
given in Figure 4-7. From the noise modeling the mining area is expected to receive a noise level of
around dB (A). This noise modeling has been carried out considering worst conditions, the noise level
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is expected to be very less than the calculated value.

 Controlled blasting with proper spacing, burden and stemming will be maintained
 No secondary blasting.
 Minimum quantity of detonating fuse will be consumed by using alternatively excel non-
electrical initiation system.
 The blasting will be carried out during favorable atmospheric condition and less human
activity timings.
 The prime movers/diesel engines will be properly maintained.
 Provision of sound insulated chambers for the workers deployed on machines (HEMM).
 Proper designing of machinery by providing inbuilt mechanism like silencers, mufflers
and enclosures for noise generating parts and shock absorbing pads at the foundation
of vibrating equipment.
 A thick tree belt will be provided in phased manner around the periphery of the mine to
attenuate noise.
 Trees will be planted on both sides of haul roads.
 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) like ear muffs/ear plugs will be provided to the
operators of HEMM and persons working near HEMM and reducing the exposure time
of workers to the higher noise levels.
4.3.7 Impact of Vibration
Blasting activities will be involved in the Quarry operations. The vibration during the moment
of machinery will be minimal for a short span that will be well within the prescribed limits. Proposed
Peripheral green belt is being developed in 1.61.1 Ha. This will mitigate the Vibration level at the site.
 The minimum recommended delay time of 8ms was introduced to minimize ground
vibration to avoid constructive interference of blast vibration to avoid constructive
interference of blast vibration waves and hence its impact or amplitude.
 In initiation type Non – electric (Nonel) system DTH: 200/450 ins and TLD: 17/25/42 ins is
used for blast hole depth.
 In case of electronic detonators, which are inherently much more accurate delays (+/- 0.2
Milliseconds delay) to minimizes the ground vibration.
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 Use of ammonium nitrate fuel oil mixture for shot holes may be avoided because which
cause for high fly rocks in view critical diameter problem. Only high strength explosives like
slurry will be used in the form of cartridge.
 Charge per hole should exceed the powder factor designed for each hole based on the
quantum of Proposed Control Blasting, Strength of rocks, fracture pattern etc.
4.3.8 Impact on Human Settlement
The land is classified as a private land. Proponent has applied for fresh grant of quarrying Granite
Building Stone in in Survey No. 66 of Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissu District, Kerala
State for 10 years. The Government of Tamil Nadu issued the precise area communication letter to
furnish the approved Mining Plan under Kerala Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2015.
Hence R&R Plan is not required for this Quarry. There are no monuments or places of worships in mine
area. Ground vibration and noise pollution is being maintained minimal and confined to the mine area.
The quality of water both surface and ground water is good and all parameters of drinking water are
as per IS standards.
Water quality analysis will be carried out at periodical intervals during post project monitoring. The
PM, NO2 and SO2 have been observed to be below the prescribed limit. Noise levels have also been
found to be below the permissible limits at all the locations. Further, the noise generated in the lease
area will get attenuated due to plantation and green belt all around the lease area. As preventive
measures, greenbelt development around the mine lease area will be further strengthening the control
of air emission to environment.
All the employees when inducted will be medically examined. Further, they will also be medically
examined at periodical interval.
4.3.9 Biological Environment
Table 4-9: Impacts on Biodiversity
S.No Activity Examples of aspects Examples of biodiversity impact
1 Extraction Land clearing Loss of habitat, introduction of plant
diseases, Siltation of water courses
2 Blasting, hauling Dust, noise, vibration, Disruption of water courses ,impacts on
water pollution aquatic ecosystems due to changes in
hydrology and water quality
3 Waste dumping Clearing, water and soil Loss of habitat, soil and water
pollution contamination, sedimentation, acid mine
drainage
4 Tailing management Land clearing, water Loss of habitat, toxicity, sedimentation,
pollution water quality and stream flow
5 Air emissions Air pollution Loss of habitat or species
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6 Waste disposal Oil and water pollution Encouragement of pests, disease transfer,
contamination of groundwater and soil
7 Building power lines Land clearing Loss or fragmentation of habitat
8 Provision of Land clearing, soil and Loss of habitat, sewage disposal and disease
accommodation water pollution, waste impacts
generation
9 Access roads Land clearing Habitat loss or fragmentation, water logging
upslope and drainage shadows down slope
10 Population growth Land clearing or Loss of habitat or species, stress on local
increased hunting and regional resources, pest introduction,
clearing
11 Water supply (potable Water abstraction or Loss or changes in habitat or species
or industrial) mine dewatering composition
4.3.9.1 Existing Biological Scenario

 Peechi Reserve Forest, Chimmony Reserve Forest are located within the 10km radius of the
project. Other than these, there are no national park / wildlife sanctuary/mangroves/
Coastline/estuary/sea located within 10km from the mines. There will not be any adverse
impact due to mining operations in this lease since only small production is involved from this
lease and there will not be any major polluting source from the mining operations. Besides,
all necessary mitigation measures will be implemented.
 There is no perennial water body near the site and there will be no discharge of effluent from
the mine.
 In the Quarry area or its proximate areas there is no wetland and the natural flow of water
not available.
 There is no rare or endangered species.
 There are no wild animals in the area. In the post mining stage, proper fencing will be carried
in the mined out area to prevent fall of animals in the mine pits.
 No such significantly important medicinal value species within both the ML areas and its
nearby region.
 There are no any wetlands, fish breeding grounds, marine ecology nearby the quarry area,
which will be affected due to this project.
To reduce the adverse effects on flora/fauna status that are found in project area due to deposition of
dust generating from mining operations, water sprinkling and water spraying systems will be ensured
in all dust prone areas to arrest dust generation.
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4.3.9.3 Flora and Fauna

Activities of Mine development and operations & transportation to end users will cause the following
impacts on flora and fauna.
Impact
 Displacement of existing fauna.
 Loss of vegetation
Mitigation measures
 Besides plantation in the ML area,
 Renovation of ponds;
 Construction of check dams and water holes; Engagement of fire watchers;
 Education and training etc.
 Logistic support in form of equipment, Vehicles etc., as required by the implementing DFO
will be extended.
The objectives of the green belt cover will cover the following
 Noise abatement
 Reuse of waste water to the extent possible
 Prevention of soil erosion
 Ecological restoration
 Aesthetic, biological and visual improvement of area due to improved vegetative and
plantation covers.
 Green belt around mine, dumps, etc:
 Tall growing, closely spaced, evergreen trees native to the area
 Easy, quick early growth and establishment
 Uniform spreading of crown habit.
 Timber trees having long gestation period.
 Trees with high foliage density, leaves with larger leaf area
 Attractive appearance with both good flowering and fruit bearing.
 Bird and insect attracting species
 Suitable green cover with minimal maintenance
 Avenue Trees:
 Trees with conical canopy and with attractive flowering
 Trees with medium spreading branches to avoid obstruction to the traffic
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 Trees with branching at 10 feet and above.

4.3.10 Green Belt Development
The green belt plantation programme will be continued till the end of the mining operation in the area.
In framing out this programme on a sustainable and scientific base, due consultation and coordination
with the forest department will be sought.
Plants are chosen to provide aesthetic, ecological and economical value. Trees will help to arrest
propagation of noise and help to lessen dust pollution due to dust arresting action. The plantation will
be developed inside and around the lease area is 0.1500 Ha, out of 0.9447 Ha. The soil dumps, are
planted to prevent erosion and for stabilization of the soil.
4.3.11 Impacts on Occupational Health Due to mining Operations
Anticipated occupational illness sequel to mining activities involved in the project as follows
 Dust related pneumonia
 Tuberculosis
 Rheumatic arthritis
 Segmental vibration
Mitigation Measures for Occupational Health

 Adoption of dust suppression measures like spraying water, use of drill with dust collection
system or wet drills etc.
 Plantation.
 Avoid blasting during unfavorable wind & atmospheric conditions
 Use of personal protective equipment. Compliance with DGMS circulars
 Emergency response plan that includes installation of emergency response equipment to
combat events such as fire.
 All personnel required to handle hazardous materials will be provided with personal
protective equipment suitable for the hazardous material being handled.
 On-site first aid facilities will be provided and employees will be extended to the local
community in emergencies.
Table 4-10:Mitigation for occupational health and safety
S. No Activity Mitigation Measures
1 Excavation Planned excavation, avoid haphazard mining
2 Drilling and Driller should be equipped with a closed cabin to reduce exposure to noise
blasting and dust. In addition, the operators and other workers should be provided
with masks, helmets, gloves and earplugs.
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3 Safety zone Provisions for a buffer zone between the local habitation and the mine lease
in the form of a green belt of suitable width.
Restricted entry, use of sirens and cordoning of the lasting area are some of
the good practices to avoid accidents.
4 Overburden Accidents are known to happen due to overburden collapse.
stabilization Therefore, slope stabilization and dump stability are critical issues for safety
and environment.
5 Worker’s health Health survey programmes for workers and local community.
surveillance Regular training and awareness of employees to be conducted to meet health
and safety objectives.
4.3.11.1 Mitigation Measures for Safety Aspects

 To reduce pollution emanation from quarry operations, carry out splitting of sheet rock
by sprinkling water which largely reduces the dust generation.
 Water sprinkling on haul roads and dumping yards, etc.
 Green belt creation wherever possible to arrest dust and reduce noise propagation.
 All staff and workers will be provided with PPE to guard against excess noise levels
 Provision of safety Helmets, goggles, safety boots, ear muffs, gas masks, etc.
 To provide appropriate instruction, training, retraining, vocational training, etc.
 Organization of safety contests and safety campaigns regularly to update knowledge of
safe operational procedures, etc.
 Observation and compliance of all precautions, control measures and stipulations on
above lines will ensure that in this project, health and safety problems will be minimal.
4.3.12 Impacts on Social Environment
Since the entire lease area of the project has no habitations or hutments in the core zone area, no
rehabilitation or resettlement problems are involved. By adopting various mitigation measures as
explained earlier, the environmental scenario in respect of ambient air quality, water quality, Noise
levels, water aspects, biological aspects etc. during the operation of the project will be maintained
within the statutorily prescribed levels. As such, impact due to the projects will be positive on socio-
economic aspects. It will be ensured that the buffer zone of the quarry will be properly preserved
environmentally in all respects within sustainable limits through necessary monitoring. The project will
be operated with due care for minimizing environmental impacts with proper EMP measures for
pollution control.
Indirectly scores of people will be benefited by gainful indirect employment opportunities through
various service related activities connected with the project operations as shown under.
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4.3.13 Corporate Environmental Responsibility

Most villages have benefitted mutually at Thrikkur Village where the mining industry has provided
indirect jobs for labour and villages provide accommodation for the labour and staff.
Supportive industries like food supply and essential shops which are setup to cater to the needs of the
quarry operations, will spur economic growth in the villages. The site has provided road access to a few
nearby village sites.
Proponent will contribute greatly towards upliftment and lifestyle betterment in this interior and
backward rural area, which is devoid of other industry. In future, more than 5.0% of the net profit will
be spent for CER activities every year (Minimum of Rs. 22.5 lakh during the mining plan as per CER).
4.3.13.1 Other benefits to Community
 Project related logistical operations.
 Various trading services for consumer goods, spare parts, sundry items, etc.
 Contractual services connected with the project.
 Green belt works in the project.
 Casual labor needs for various activities.
 The project will provide ample opportunity to the local people for direct and in-direct
employment. The proposed project may create opportunities for indirect employment in the
field of vehicle hiring, Labours, trading of construction materials, carpenters etc.
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5 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES
5.1 ALTERNATE TECHNOLOGY
Semi mechanized opencast method is being involved in this Quarry. No alternative technology will be
envisaged for this proposed project.
5.2 METHOD OF MINING
5.2.1 Opencast Method
Open cast, semi-mechanized mining with 6 m vertical bench with a bench width not less than bench
height has been proposed. Under the Kerala Minor Mineral Concession Rule (KMMCR), 2015 in all open
cast working in hard ore body, the benches and sides should be properly benched and sloped. The
height of any bench shall not exceed 6m and the width thereof shall not be less than the height. The
benches shall be sloped at an angle of more than 45° from the horizontal.
5.2.2 Alternate Site
The Granite Building Stone deposits are site specific in nature; hence question of seeking alternate site
does not arise. The project Granite Building Stone mine is over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey
No. 66 of Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala. It is private land the applicant
has obtained approval letter of mining plan is enclosed as Annexure - I.
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6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME

6.1 INTRODUCTION
Regular monitoring of the various environmental parameters is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness
of the management programme so that the necessary corrective measures can be taken in case there
are some drawbacks in the proposed programme.
Since environmental quality parameters at work zone and surrounding area are important for
maintaining sound operating practices of the project in conformity with environmental regulations, the
post project monitoring work forms part of Environmental Monitoring Program.
Environmental Monitoring Program will be implemented once the project activity commences. It
includes: (i) environmental surveillance (ii) analysis and interpretation of data (iii) preparation of
reports to support environmental management system and (iv) organizational set up responsible for
the implementation of the programme.
Environmental Monitoring will be taken up for various environmental components as per conditions
stipulated in Environmental Clearance Letter issued by MoEF&CC and Consent to Operate issued by
the State Pollution Control Board. Compliance of same will be submitted to respective authorities on
regular basis.
6.2 IMPLEMENTATION OF SCHEDULE
Proponent has adopted an Environmental Policy ensuring the protection of natural resources during
mining operations
Table 6-1 Implementation of Schedule
S.No. Recommendations Time Requirement Schedule
1 Air pollution control measures Before operation of mine Immediate
2 Water pollution control measures Before operation of mine Immediate
3 Noise control measures Along with the operation of mine Immediate
4 Ecological preservation and up gradation Stage-wise implementation Progressive
6.3 MONITORING SCHEDULES FOR VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL PARAMETERS
The proponent shall adopt the following monitoring schedule for environmental parameters. However,
based on the need and priority it may be suitably modified / improved. However, since the proponents
are different, monitoring, fulfilling of all the statutory obligations and maintaining records are to be
carried out separately by the proponents.
6.4 POST PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL M O N I T O R I N G
It is imperative that the Project Authorities set up regular monitoring stations to assess the quality of
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the neighboring environment of the project. An environmental monitoring programme is important as

it provides useful information and helps to:
 Verify the predictions on environmental impacts presented in this study
 Assist in detecting the development of any unwanted environmental situation, and thus,
provides opportunities for adopting appropriate control measures, and
 Identify the effectiveness of mitigate measures suggested in the EMP.
Table 6-2 Post Project Environmental Monitoring Program
Area of Number of Sampling Frequency of
S.No Parameters to be Analyzed
Monitoring Stations Sampling
1. Ambient Air 2 Stations (In Twice in an PM10, PM2.5, SO2, and NO2
Quality downwind) year:24 hourly
period
2. Noise 2 (two within plant Twice in an Ambient Equivalent continuous
premises and two year: hourly Sound Pressure Levels (Leq) at
outside plant basis for 24 day and Night time.
premises) hour period
3. Solid waste / Check conformance to Quantity and Physical state, Paint Filter Liquid
Hazardous HWM rules Quality test (PFLT), Loss On Drying
waste monitoring (LOD), and Loss on Ignition &
Daily Basis Calorific Value.
4. Soil Two Locations Twice in an Physico chemical properties,
within the Project Site Year Nutrients, Heavy metals
5. Terrestrial Within and around the Daily Symptoms of injuries on plants
Ecology project
6. Surface/ Ground Two Locations Twice in an As per ISO 10500 Standard
water quality within Project Site Year parameters
6.5 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY
 Occupational health survey of staff and permanent workers will be undertaken at least once
in 2 years to detect early incidence of diseases and for prompt remedial medical follow up
in the matter. Audiometric test for the workers will be done at regular interval for workers
of the noise prone area. Safety matters also will be reviewed periodically by safety in-
charge.
 Occupational health and safety is very closely related to productivity and good employer-
employee relationship. The main factors of occupational health in mines are fugitive dust
and noise. Safety of employees during blasting operation and maintenance of mining
equipment and handling of explosive materials is to be taken care of as per the Kerala Minor
Mineral Concession Rules (KMMCR), 2015 and Circulars of DGMS. To avoid any adverse
effects on the health of workers due to dust, heat, noise and vibration, sufficient measures
have been proposed in the EMP. These include
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 Provision of wet drilling /or dust collectors

 Provision of rest shelters for mine workers with amenities like drinking water, fans, toilets
etc.
 Provision of personnel protection devices for the workers
 Rotation of workers exposed to high noise areas
 First-aid facilities.
Occupational Health Survey of the employees will be carried out at regular intervals.
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7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
7.1 RISK IDENTIFICATION & MANAGEMENT
Mining and allied activities are associated with several potential hazards both to the employees and
the public at large. A worker in a mine should be able to work under conditions that are adequately
safe and healthy. At the same time the environmental conditions should be such as not to impair his
working efficiency. The various safeguards to be taken to ensure the safety of the mine and that of
employees are provided in the Mines Act, 1952. Risk involves the occurrence or potential occurrence
of some accidents consisting of an event or sequence of events. The risk assessment study covers the
following:
 Identification of potential hazard areas
 Identification of representative failure cases
 Assess the overall damage potential of the identified hazardous events and the impact zones
from the accidental scenarios
 Assess the overall suitability of the site from hazard minimization and disaster mitigation point
of view
 Furnish specific recommendations on the minimization of the worst accident possibilities
 Preparation of broad DMP, On-site and Off-site Emergency Plan, which includes
 Occupational Health and Safety Plan
The complete mining will be carried out under the management control and direction of a qualified
mine manager holding a manager’s certificate of competency. Moreover, mining staff will be sent to
refresher courses from time to time to keep them alert. However, following natural/industrial hazards
may occur during normal operation:
 Accident due to explosives
 Accident due to heavy mining equipment; and
 In order to take care of above hazard/disasters, the following control measures will be adopted.
 All safety precautions and provisions of the Mine Act, 1952, the KMMCR, 2015 and the DGMS
Rules will be strictly followed during all mining operations
 Entry of unauthorized persons will be prohibited
 Firefighting and first-aid provisions in the mine’s office complex and mining area;
 Provisions of all the safety appliances such as safety boot, helmets, goggles etc. will be made
available to the employees and regular check for their use
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 Training and refresher courses for all the employees working in hazardous premises; under
mines rules all employees of mines will have to undergo the training at a regular interval
working of mine, as per approved plans and regularly updating the mine plans.
 Cleaning of mine faces will be regularly done.
 Handling of explosives, charging and blasting will be carried out by competent persons only.
 Regular maintenance and testing of all mining equipment as per manufacturer’s guidelines.
 Suppression of dust on the haulage roads. Adequate safety equipment will be provided at
explosive magazine
 Increasing the awareness of safety and disaster through competitions, posters and other similar
drives. For any type of above disaster, a rescue team will be formed by training the mining staff
with specialized training.
7.2 IDENTIFICATION OF HAZARDS IN OPEN CAST MINING
There are various factors, which can cause disaster in the mines. These hazards are as follows:
Identification of Hazards in Opencast Mine is given in below,
 Drilling
 Blasting
 Overburden handling
 Heavy Machinery
7.2.1 Drilling
The drilling is carried out using jack hammers with a diameter of hole is 32mm. The breakages of
drill rods may blast injuring the nearby personnel. These can be easily remedied as follows
 Maintain and operating the equipment’s as per the manufacturer’s manual.
 Compressor is kept at a safe distance from the main operation area and operated, so that in
the event of any disruption the personnel in the operating area are safe.
7.2.2 Blasting
Most of the accidents from blasting occur due to the projectiles, as they may sometimes go even
beyond the danger zone, mainly due to overcharging of the shot-holes as a result of certain special
features of the local ground. Flying rocks are encountered during initial and final blasting
operations. Vibrations also lead to displacement of adjoining areas. Dust and noise are also
problems commonly encountered during blasting operations.
 The blasting is the predominating method of breaking rocks in various surface and underground
mines. At the same time some damaging impacts on environment are evident: noise, gas, dust,
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fly rock and ground vibration.

 The considering factor is most important for safety of natural objects in the vicinity of mining
area.
 The ground vibration parameters, crucial for safety of endangered objects have a significant
correlation with charge weight and distance of blasting.
 This study tried to associate the main vibration parameter, particle velocity with blasting
parameters and properties of vibration medium.
7.2.2.1 Precautionary Measures to Avoid Accidents due to Blasting
 The lessee is advised to store the explosives as per the Indian Explosive act, 1958
 The explosives to be used in mines being a small quantity, the district collector may be
approached to keep the stocks not exceeding 5kgs at time or any other quantity permined by
the concerned authorities in a portable magazine of S & B types.
 The lessee is advised to engage an authorized explosive agency to carry out proposed control
blasting.
 The Proposed Control Blasting time at a day is proposed to 5PM to 6 PM.
 First Aid Box will be keeping ready at all the time.
 Necessary precautionary announcement will be carried out before the proposed Control
Blasting operation.
7.2.3 over burden Handling
No overburden will be generated in the proposed project and side burden dump may cause landslides.
High side burden dump created at the quarry edge may cause sliding of the side burden dump or may
cause failure of the pit slope due to excessive loading, thereby causing loss of life and property.
7.2.4 Heavy Machinery
Most of the accidents during transport of tippers and other heavy vehicles are often attributable to
mechanical failures and human errors.
7.2.4.1 Precautionary Measures to Prevent Accidents due to Trucks and Dumpers
 All transportation within the main working shall be carried out directly under the supervision
and control of the management.
 The vehicles must be maintained in good condition and checked thoroughly at least once a
week by the competent person authorized for the purpose by the Management.
 Road signs shall be provided at each and every turning point especially for the guidance of the
drivers at the night.
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 To avoid danger while reversing vehicles especially at the embankment and tipping points, all
areas for reversing of lorries should as far as possible be made man free.
 A statutory provision of the fences, constant education, training etc. will go a long Way in
reducing the incidents of such accidents.
 A Load consisting of large rocks must not be over the edge. This is unsafe and may damage
equipment.
 The movement of the dumpers will be governed under the Code of Traffic rule.
7.2.4.2 Storage of Explosives
There will not be any storage of explosives during the operation of the quarry. The blasting will be done
by contractors authorized by the Government.
7.2.5 Safety Measures at the Mine site
 Adequate care has been taken in deciding the size of the bench for the working as well as
ultimate pit.
 Adequate drainage system at the top of the pit and also on the benches shall be made to
prevent erosion of the benches.
 The quarries will be protected by garland drains around the periphery for storm water drainage.
7.3 DISASTER MANAGEMENT PLAN
The disaster management plan is aimed to ensure safety of life, protection of environment,
protection of installation, restoration of production and salvage operations in this same order of
priorities. For effective implementation of the disaster management plan, it should be widely
circulated and personnel training through rehearsals/drills. The objective of the disaster
management plan is to make use of the combined resources of the mining operation and the
outside services to achieve the following:
 Effect the rescue and medical treatment of casualties
 Safeguard other people
 Minimize damage to property and the environment
 Initially contain and ultimately bring the incident under control
 Identify any dead
 Provide for the needs of relatives
 Provide authoritative information to the news media
 Secure the safe rehabilitation of affected area
 Preserve relevant records and equipment for the subsequent inquiry into the cause and
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circumstances of the emergency

 In effect, it is to optimize operational efficiency to rescue rehabilitation and render medical
help and to restore normalcy.
7.3.1 Emergency Organization (EO)
It is recommended to setup an emergency organization. A senior executive (Mine Manager) who has
control over the affairs of the mine would be heading the emergency organization. He would be
designated as site controller. As per the general organization chart, in the mines, the mines manager
would be designated as the Incident Controller (IC). The incident controller would be reporting to the
site controller. The incident controller organizes a team responsible for controlling the incidence with
the personnel under his control. Emergency coordinators would be appointed who would undertake
the responsibilities like firefighting, rescue, transport and provide essential and support services.
7.3.2 Emergency Communication (EC)
Whoever notices an emergency situation such as fire, growth of fire etc. would inform the Mines
Foreman. The Mines Foreman would appraise the site controller. Site Controller verifies the
situation from the incident controller takes a decision about an impending on site emergency.
Simultaneously, the emergency warning system would be activated on the instructions of the site
controller.
In order to handle disaster/emergency situations,
The following personnel shall deal with the disaster/Emergency
 Mines Manager-site controller
 Mines Forman-incident controller
 Mine mate –Fire controller
 Senior most Driver-Transport coordinator
 Senior most operator- Medical coordinator
7.3.3 Emergency Services
This includes the fire-fighting system, first aid center, etc. Alternate sources of power supply for
operating fire pumps, communication with local bodies, fire brigade etc. will also be clearly
identified.
 Fire Protection System
 Off Site Emergency Plan
7.3.3.1 Fire Protection System
The fire protection system for the project maintained will consist of Portable hand appliances of
suitable types/capacities for extinguishing small fires in selected mine areas, storages areas such
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as that of Diesel, Explosives, etc.

7.3.3.2 Off-Site Emergency Plan
The offsite emergency plan defining the various steps to tackle any offsite emergencies, which
may affect surrounding areas of the project, has to be prepared after due finalizing discussion in
this respect with local Panchayat official, Revenue officials and District Collector. As per this off
site plan, in case of any off site emergencies, actions have to be promptly initiated to deal with
the situation in consultation with Collector and other revenue officials.
7.4 PROGRESSIVE QUARRY CLOSURE PLAN
In the Granite Building Stone quarry operations proposed bench height of 5m for first five years
and 25m during the entire life of the quarry, hence the ground water will not be disturbed in any
manner. Afforestation will be carried out and maintained in the safety barriers till the plants reach
the stabilize level. Office room, Toilet, Store room will be well maintained. The sludge from the
toilet will be periodically removed and the same will be used as a manner for afforestation.
Sentries will be posted in the night to prevent the inadvertent entry of public. Sufficient caution
and sign boards will be kept in and around the quarry to induct public for awareness. Blasting will
be carried out in a specific time after giving sufficient caution to the public, sentries will be posted
on a 100m radius with whistle and flags during small amount of blasting (blasting is carried out
only for secondary fragments and not to liberate the stone body from the parent rock mass.)
The total waste to be generated during the Mining plan period will be around 54,625 MT /year.
These wastes will be proposed to dump on the south side of lease area with dimensions of
30X30X6.50m.
For Green Belt closure plan, Measures will be taken as per the Acts and Rules, the quarried pit will
be fenced by using Barbed wire fencing. Green belt development at the rate of 50 trees per year
will be proposed.
7.4.1 Solid waste Management
As is stated earlier, mining is being carried out by opencast semi-mechanized method using
conventional mining equipment’s i.e. hydraulic excavators and dumpers combination with
ancillary mining equipment like compressor, wire cutting machine, generator & water sprinkler
etc.
The mine waste in the mine includes the over lain unrecoverable boulders / rock fragments and
rubbles generated during the production works and the waste fragments generated during
development works will be utilized for forming approach road and dumping yard purposes.
Adequate space has been identified within the lease applied area for dumping such waste material
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on barren land the defective portion of the deposit may also be used for waste dumping purpose.
 Stabilization of Dump- As the waste generation in the mine includes hard rock fragments of
considerable size and irregular shape with varying angularity, the waste dump will be stable
on its own even at higher slopes of the sides. However, suitable variety of soil will be identified
and brought from outside and used for increasing the stability of the sides of the waste dumps
and also for planting trees over the dumps in a phased manner.
 Disposal of Mining Machinery- Mining operations are planned to be done if requires
departmentally by machines/ vehicles on contract. On completion of mining operations, the
contractors will remove their machinery and take them away. The departmental mining
machinery owned by the company, will be transferred to other needy areas. The
machines/vehicles on completion of their useful life will be scrapped and are written off and
disposed on completion of their normal life as per the set guidelines.
 Other Infrastructure- Mine office, store room, first-aid room etc, will be provided on semi-
permanent structures within the lease applied area.
 Safety & Security- The water ponds developed in the reclaimed areas shall be properly fenced
for safety. The water from these ponds is likely to be potable and shall use for human & cattle
consumption and for agriculture purposes
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8 PROJECT BENEFITS
8.1 GENERAL
The execution of the project bring overall improvement in the locality, neighborhood and the State by
bringing industry, roads, employment and hence improving living standard and economic growth.
 The quarrying activities in this belt will benefit to the local people directly 12 persons.
 The direct beneficiaries will be those who get employed in the mines as skilled and unskilled
workers.
 Generation of self-employment through self-help groups.
 Improvement in Per Capita Income.
 The socio - Economic conditions of the village and distance will enhance due to the project,
hence the project should be allowed after considering all the parameters.
 It can thus be concluded that the project is environmentally compatible, financially viable and
would be in the interest of construction industry thereby indirectly benefiting the masses.
8.2 IMPROVEMENT IN PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
The development of mining in the area is directly and indirectly going to contribute in increasing
employment, infrastructure, communication, and socioeconomic infrastructure. It is proposed to
employ the local population wherever possible in the proposed project activities directly or indirectly.
The proposed Granite Building Stone mine would naturally have implications on the neighborhood with
reference to socio-economic aspects of society, environmental attributes such as land, water, air,
aesthetics, flora and fauna. In assessing the environmental impact, collection, collation and
interpretation of baseline data is of prime importance. Environmental impact analysis and assessment,
which is required for every industrial project, should preferably be carried out at the planning stage
itself.
8.3 INFRASTRUCTURE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Manpower: Proponent has full-fledged environmental cell to supervise and implement the
environmental related issues. The Environmental Monitoring Cell has following manpower on regular
basis and detailed EMC is already given in the chapter 6.
1. Mine Manager
2. Supervisor
3. Gardeners
4. Workers
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5. General
8.4 ECOLOGICAL BENEFITS
The surrounding area is purely agricultural land with some waste land etc. It is proposed to put around
more than 50 sappling for the avenue (road side) and where the low lying is there two culverts will be
constructed. In these lease area the natural plant communities are not very well defined. Proponent
will be undertaken afforestation work over 0.1500 ha, from 1st year to 5th year by planting 250 plants.
8.5 IMPROVE SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
The socio-economic conditions in the study area indicate the quality of life of the people. The important
indicators which decide the quality of life and require to be improved for better living conditions are
literacy levels, improved occupational structure, industrial development, infrastructural facilities,
transportation, communication linkages, land development and improvement in cropping pattern.
102 July 2022

9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

9.1 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
Environmental Management Plan covers the genesis of pollution, the principal sources of
pollution, the nature of pollution, the proposed measures required for meeting the prevailing
statutory requirements of air emissions, waste water discharge characteristics, noise levels, land
use, socio economics etc. for environmental management purpose in connection with the mining
and quarrying related activities in the study area.
9.2 EMISSION SOURCE IDENTIFICATION
The Emission sources are activities related to pits and quarries including, overburden operations,
boring, drilling, conveying, washing, drying, hauling, loading and unloading stockpiles. The
emission sources may be subdivided into six broad categories:
 Emissions of PM from road dust due to vehicular traffic on unpaved roads.
 Emissions from generators, compressor engines and excavator engines
 These engines operate at more than 120 HP and may be used to generate power for
stationary equipment especially in remote areas.
9.3 AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT
Quarrying operations are semi mechanized open cast, but there is involvement of labors too. Dust
would be generated during the course of over burden removing, drilling, mining, hauling, handling
and transportation of the material. Dust is likely to be generated from emissions of diesel vehicles
such as SO2, NOx etc.
9.3.1 Measures for dust suppression
Water will be sprinkled for suppression of air borne dust on mine haulage roads and waste dumps
on regular intervals by water tankers. Drilling of blast holes of 25.5 mm diameter will be always
under wet condition to prevent flying of dust. In the unloading point of Tippers, water will be
sprinkled and further the drillers are provided with respirators in accordance with mines
regulations.
9.3.2 Emissions from Material Handling
PM emissions occur during the handling and transfer operations of material from one process to
another within the facility. Open storage piles of raw material and products are generated at
various points throughout the operational area
The environmental control measures, which are being taken and proposed to control the fugitive
dust released during the stone quarry production are given below:
103 July 2022

 The working faces will be regularly wetted before carrying out the drilling and excavation.
 Dust masks will be provided to the workers especially for the drillers and for the workers
working in the loading operations.
 Periodic health checkup for the workers shall be done.
 Plantation along approach roads and surrounding the Quarry Lease area.
 Water tankers with spraying arrangement will be used for regular water sprinkling on the haul
roads to ensure effective dust suppression.
9.3.3 Haulage
 Haul road will be maintained regularly.
 Speed limits will be prescribed for transport vehicles.
 Water will be sprayed daily on the roads by using water tankers.
 Periodic maintenance of the tippers used for transport shall be done to reduce smoke
emissions.
 Over loading of trucks is avoided.
9.4 NOISE POLLUTION CONTROL
In an operational mine major noise sources are operation of mine machineries, equipment & plying
vehicles. Noise generation may be for an instant, intermittent or continuous period, with low to
high decibels. General noise levels generated at mines are documented as below in Table 10-1.
Table 9-1: Table Generation of noise level at mine site
S. No Equipment Noise Level (dB (A))
1. Rotary Drills 72-100
2. Excavator 75-90
3. Diesel Tipper 74-109
The management plan for controlling noise pollution is as given below.
 Reducing the drilling operations as far as possible.
 All machines and equipment are enclosed in acoustic enclosures.
 Provision of earmuffs to workers working in high noise prone areas.
 Proper gradient of haul roads to reduce cumulative noise levels.
 Quarrying of Rough Stone will be carried out by drilling and proposed control blasting by using
low power explosives, and hence, noise will be very minimum. However, periodical noise level
monitoring will be carried out to check the noise level in and around the quarry site.
 In order to assess the extent of noise pollution due to vehicular traffic different zones viz.,
silence zone, Residential Zone, Commercial Zone, Traffic Signals and Industrial Zones were
identified in Urban and Suburban areas of Thrissur District. Adequate Number of Observations
104 July 2022

were made in all the selected sites by using the sound level meter (LT Lutron SL -4001).
Development of green belt all along the boundary of the mining lease area which will act as effective
noise barrier.
 Since, no deep hole proposed control blasting is proposed with small diameter explosives are
used for breaking the hard rock and boulders, the noise and vibration will be very minimum and
are within the permissible limits.
 Restriction of blast hole drilling to only day time hours and usage of sharp drilling bits and
delivery of compressed air at optimal pressure during drilling.
9.5 WATER POLLUTION CONTROL MEASURES
9.5.1 Surface Water
There are no major streams and rivers, which can get effected by the mining. Hence there will be
no major effect on the surface water environment. Surface water ditches or channels will be made
to divert all surface drainage for agricultural purposes.
9.5.2 Mine Drainage Water
Mine water will be used in mechanized cutting of the blocks and for wetting purpose. The runoff
from the dumps will be channelized and care will be taken.
 Mine water will be used in wet drilling process, dust suppression & green belt development.
 The runoff from the dumps will be channelized and care will be taken.
9.6 LAND ENVIRONMENT
Landscape will be slightly changed due to open cast quarry. There will be no land subsidence as
area is made up of hard rock. Aesthetic environment will not be effected, as the quarry is located
in hilly terrain. Soil cover and the weathered material accounts for the Over Burden. Agriculture
is seen mainly in the plains far away from the lease area. A few bushes will be cleared to facilitate
mining and other related activities and there are no big trees.
 A garland drain will be constructed all around to prevent the wash off. Landscape will be
changed due to open cast quarry. There will be no land subsidence as area is made up of hard
rock. Aesthetic environment will be effected.
 Soil cover and the weathered material accounts for the Over Burden.
 Where soil is available during the course of mining in side burden.
9.7 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
The solid waste that is likely to be generated during the quarry activity will be stacked along the
lease barrier according to their quality and size. Irregular large size rocks of different size will be
cut. The remaining waste material will be dumped at separate lease area acquired by applicant at
105 July 2022

outside the quarry lease area. This waste rock pieces will be used as road metal or building material.
All the care will be taken to minimize the waste generation at the source.
 The overburden is dumped inside the mining area to stabilize slopes and reclaim low lying
areas within the mine.
 The solid waste that is likely to be generated during the quarry activity will be stacked along
the lease barrier according to the mining plan.
 All the care will be taken to minimize the waste generation at the source.
9.7.1 Stabilization of Dumps
The dumps are mainly constituted of quarry waste with soil. It will be afforested properly to
stabilize the dumps and preserve soil character. Further ends will be properly subjected to
vegetation by growing some bushes and shrubs. Garland canal also will be dug around the dump.
As the waste generation in the mine includes hard rock fragments of considerable size and
irregular shape with varying angularity, the waste dump will be stable on its own even at higher
slopes of the sides. However suitable variety of soil will be identified and brought from outside
and used for increasing the stability of the sides of the waste dumps and also for planting trees
over the dumps in a phased manner.
9.7.2 Measures to be adopted for Solid Wastes Management
during the first five years of Mining Plan period, such waste materials are proposed to be dumped along
the Southern part of the lease area where it comprises of country rock terrain.
The total waste to be generated during the Mining plan period will be around 64,625 MT /year.
These wastes will be proposed to dump on the south side of lease area with dimensions of
30X30X6.50m.
9.8 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT
As in any typical Igneous rocks deposit, there is no tree growth on the area, but grass shrub and
bushes grow sparsely. No wildlife is found in quarry Lease area. In order to minimize the impacts
and to improve up on the existing eco system afforestation plan will be envisaged.
 As in any typical intrusive igneous rocks deposit, there is no tree growth on the area, but grass
shrub and bushes grow sparsely.
 In order to minimize the impacts and to improve up on the existing eco system afforestation
plan will be envisaged.
 No wildlife is found in quarry Lease area.
106 July 2022

9.8.1 Granite Building Stone Conservation and Development

The mining plan proposed has fully covered the aspects of rough stone conservation with a future
plan to extend the proposed working of the mine to the optimum of the deposit. Extreme care is
being taken to ensure proper supervision of quality control of the rough stone dimensional stone
aimed at the recovery of the maximum saleable quantity / quality of rough stone dimensional
stones suitable for full utilization of the consumers.
9.8.2 Afforestation Plan
The main aim of the plantation of the mined out areas is to stabilize the area to protect it from
rain, wind erosion, improve the aesthetics and support the re-creation of bio-diversity.
 Afforestation will be taken up along the lease area.
 In the Scheme of Mining 50 plants per year is proposed to be planted for complying
Afforestation program with the arrived survival rate of 80% around the lease area in the phased
manner.
 Only Shrubs and rubber trees are seen in the quarry Lease area.
 No fauna is seen in the quarry lease area.
9.8.3 Occupational Health & Safety Measures
Granite building stone does not contain any toxic elements. Further this being a mechanized mine,
production is by mechanized means and waste material handling partly by mechanized way, there
shall be marginal impact on air and noise qualities. Therefore, the possibilities of any health
hazards are minimal.
 Awareness and planning are keys to prevention of occupational health hazards.
 Conducting air monitoring to measure worker exposures and to ensure that provided controls
are adequate for protection of workers.
 Adequate respiratory protection will be provided to the workers.
 Periodic medical examinations for all workers.
 Provide workers with training that includes information about health effects, work practices, and
use of protective equipment’s.
9.9 SOCIO-ECONOMIC BENEFITS
Granite Building Stone Quarry project is not going to have any negative impact on the social or cultural
life of the villagers in the near vicinity. The quarry activity will provide job opportunities, which will help
them to develop economically.
Granite Building Stone quarry will be done with the vision of leaving a positive impact on socio-
economics of people living in the nearby villages. A first-aid center to meet the basic medical needs of
107 July 2022

employees will be provided.

9.9.1 Employment potential
Around 18 people employed excluding material suppliers, outside workshops, unit supported
industries. Local villagers residing in the nearby villages shall be employed as semi-skilled workers.
9.9.2 Care and Maintenance during Temporary Discontinuance
All the provisions as per the Kerala Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2015 shall be strictly adhered
during temporary discontinuation.
9.9.3 Safety and Security
At the end of quarry operations, the total area excavated will be fenced properly with single
opening for workers engaged in closure plan work.
108 July 2022

Table 9-2: Environmental Management Plan

S.No Environmental Aspects Impacts Mitigation Measures Responsibility
1 Air Pollution Dust Particles due to Water will be sprinkled for suppression of air borne PROPONENT
blasting, drilling & dust on mine haulage roads and waste dumps on
Transportation. regular intervals by water tankers.
Drilling of blast holes of 32 mm dia will be always
under wet condition to prevent flying of dust.
In the unloading point of Tippers, water will be
sprinkled and further the drillers are provided with
respirators in accordance with mines regulations.
The proposed controlled blasting time at a day is
proposed to be 11 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm.
The Minimum Recommended delay time of 8ms was
introduced to minimize ground vibration to avoid
constructive interference of blast vibration waves
and hence its impact or amplitude.
Use of Ammonium nitrate fuel oil mixture for shot
holes may be avoided because which cause for high
fly of rocks in view critical diameter problem. Only
high strength explosives like slurry will be used in the
form of cartridge.
2 Noise pollution Noise generation due to Development of green belt all along the boundary of PROPONENT
Blasting, Drilling the mining lease area which will act as effective
activities during mining noise barrier.
In case of electronic detonators, which are
inherently much more accurate delays (+/- 0.2
milliseconds delay) to minimizes the ground
vibration.
Charge per hole should exceed the powder factor
designed for each hole based on the quantum of
Generation of noise due proposed Control Blasting, Strength of rocks,
to machineries used for fracture pattern etc.
109 July 2022


mining Reducing the drilling operations as per operation
timing i.e., General Timing (8am – 5pm)
All machines and equipment are enclosed in
Due to Transportation, acoustic enclosures.
Loading & unloading of Power Horns will not be allowed in trucks.
minerals Drivers will be further instructed not to use music
Systems at high volumes. Proper gradient of haul
roads to reduce cumulative noise levels.
3 Water Pollution Runoff water from mine Mine water will be used in wet drilling process, dust PROPONENT
site due to sprinkling of suppression & green belt development area.
water for cooling of The runoff from the dumps will be channelized and
machineries. care will be taken.
Sewage generation by The worked out slopes will be stabilized by planting
using of Fresh water for appropriate shrub/grass species on the slopes.
domestic proposes The mine water will be regularly tested for presence
of any undesirable elements and appropriate
measures will be taken in case any element is found
exceeding the limits prescribed by CPCB.
Surface water ditches or channels will be made to
divert all surface drainage for agricultural purposes.
Domestic sewage will be collected in soak pit & will
be discharged once in three months.
4 Land Environment Land Degradation due A retaining wall and garland drain will be PROPONENT
to disposal of large constructed all around to prevent the wash off.
volume of waste Landscape will be changed due to open cast quarry.
materials and exposure There will be no land subsidence as area is made up
of topsoil to wind and of hard rock. Aesthetic environment will be effected.
water erosion. Compliance with mine decommissioning plan. To
improve its quality, soil stabilizers shall be mixed and
leguminous plantation will be done over these
110 July 2022


stacks.
5 Biological Environment Displacement of In order to minimize the impacts and to improve up PROPONENT
Existing Fauna due to on the existing eco system afforestation plan will be
the loss of vegetation envisaged.
As in any typical intrusive igneous rocks deposit,
there is no tree growth on the area, but grass shrub
and bushes grow sparsely.
Plantation will be taken up in consultation with
Forest department and species local to the area shall
be planted as per findings during baseline
environment which help maintain the regional
ecological balance, soil and hydrological conditions.
6 Occupational Health & Excavation Planned excavation, avoid haphazard mining PROPONENT
Safety Measures Drilling Driller should be equipped with a closed cabin to
reduce exposure to noise and dust.
In addition, the operators and other workers should
Safety zone be provided with masks, helmets, gloves and
earplugs.
Provisions for a buffer zone between the local
habitation and the mine lease in the form of a green
belt of suitable width.
Restricted entry, use of sirens and cordoning of the
Overburden lasting area are some of the good practice to avoid
stabilization accidents.
Accidents are known to happen due to overburden
collapse.
Therefore, slope stabilization and dump stability are
critical issues for safety and environment.
Worker’s health Health survey programmes for workers and local
surveillance community.
111 July 2022


Regular training and awareness of employees to be
conducted to meet health and safety objectives.
7 Socio – Economic Employment to the Project will benefit people living in the neighboring PROPONENT
people villages temporarily by creating opportunity for
direct & indirect employment associated with the
various project activities.
Drilling process will involve a number of skilled and
unskilled workers.
Site preparation phase will involve certain number
of workers and there is a possibility that local people
can be engaged for this purpose.
Impacts due to Generation of short time employment opportunities
operations, during the project phase would improve the
transportation employment scenario of the area
During blasting process proper announcement will
be given to public through sirens.
Blasting operations will be done at proper timing
with proper mitigation measures to reduce dust
particles for avoiding health issues for public.
8 Waste Management Dumping Waste generated from the mining will be dumped PROPONENT
inside the lease area and plantation will be done
over it.
112 July 2022

9.10 BUDGET FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

It is necessary to include the environmental cost as a part of the budgetary cost component.
Total of Rs.15,00,000/- allocated for environmental protection activities. Environmental
Management cost is given in Table 10-3.
Table 9-3 Environmental Management Cost
S. No Details Cost in Rs.
1 Afforestation 2,50,000
2 Water Sprinkling 75,000
3 Water Quality Test 50,000
4 Air Quality Test 75,000
5 Noise/Vibration Test 50,000
6 Construction of Silt Traps and Drains 3,00,000
7 Construction of Silt Traps 2,00,000
8 Construction of Septic Tank 1,00,000
9 Installation of Bio Bins for Solid Waste Management 1,00,000
10 Maintenance of Vehicle Pollution under Control 1,00,000
11 Health Safety and Well Being of the Workers 1,00,000
12 Environmental Awareness Programme 1,00,000
Total 15,00,000
9.10.1 Environment Policy
Applicant, believes that good safety, Health & Pollution control practices contribute to
individual well-being and organization morale. Our commitment to Safety, Health and
Environment stretch beyond statutory obligations and we are committed to manage and
continually improve the overall safety, Health and Environmental performance.
Proponents are committed to ensure that:
 We develop safe working methods and practices, with as objective of no injuries and
accidents at the work place and provide a safe work place for our employees, contractors
and other who perform their duties. We shall provide adequate Health care to our
employees, and create processes to reduce the adverse effect of the operations on the
health of the employees.
 We provide safety appliances and continuous training in safety to our employees and
contract workmen to ensure safe production and achieve the target of zero accidents. We
are committed to supporting actions aimed at increase in employees’ safety outside work
hours.
113 July 2022

 We protect the environment by control and prevention of pollution and promote green
environment.
 We continuously evaluate and improve our conduct and carryout regular audit, analysis
and studies to eliminate potential concerns and continuously improve upon our Safety,
Health and Environmental standards.
 We communicate our Safety, Health and Environmental Policy to all our employees’
contractors and to the public for better understanding and practice.
 Management has knowledge of relevant issues regarding Safety, Health and Environment
and provides a foundation for setting objectives and targets. Management shall fulfill its
responsibility to inform, educate and motivate employees and others to understand and
comply with this policy and applicable laws.
 Applicant shall use its resources in order to live up to this policy and thereby promote our
business.
Besides, the company has formulated well-planned and integrated Environmental policies as
shown below:
 Proponents are committed to welfare and development needs of the society around.
 All rules and conditions prescribed in the Indian Mines Act, Metalliferous Mines
Regulation etc., will be adopted to ensure risks-free and safe mining operations. All
personal protective devices supplied to workers and staff should be used while they work
in the mines and any violation in this respect will be dealt with inflict of warnings first,
followed subsequently by punitive punishments including fines and ultimately dismissal,
if repeated continuously.
 Any infringement / violation of any rule or unsafe mining operations should be reported
to Mines Manager / Mine Foremen /Mine Mate/ Blaster who will take immediate
corrective measures for avoiding major disasters. The report will ultimately reach the
Board of Directors through upwardly hierarchical communicative channels from the
lowest level to superior levels in quick time bound duration.
 The Agent and the Mines Manager should exercise overall control over entire mining and
connected operations and all infringements / violations on any count pertaining to unsafe
operations, environmental degradation, etc., should be brought to the notice of the Board
114 July 2022

of Directors. Remedial measures for such violations and deviations should be taken by the
Mines Manager to avoid any hazards or disasters in the mine and nearby areas. The
persons responsible for such violations will be punished through appropriate disciplinarily
penal actions.
 The EC conditions and stipulations will be strictly followed by all supervisory staff of the
mine, and will co-ordinate in various issues like prescribed environmental monitoring
schedules, vibration monitoring studies during blasting, green belt development,
management of dumps etc.
 Penal actions will be taken by the company in cases of continuous negligence resulting in
violations deviations in this respect.
 A time schedule of once in 15 days for review of all operational factors as mentioned
above is in force, for proper and quick corrective actions.
115 July 2022

10 SUMMARY & CONCLUSION

10.1 BACKGROUND
Kerala is rich in minor mineral resources, which include china clay, calcite, dolomite, dunite/pyroxenite,
felspar, fireclay, gypsum, rough stone, sand stone, quartz etc,. This report discusses the cluster
comprehensive management plan for mitigation/abatement of adverse environmental impact and
enhancement of beneficial impacts due to cluster mining. This report has been designed within the
framework of various legislative and regulatory requirements on environmental and socio-economic
aspects.
The project Cluster of Rough Stone mines is over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey No. 66 of
Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala of private land, which is not fit for
extensive vegetation/cultivation. There are about 70 to 80 number of low yielding rubber trees at
present.
The Proposed Cluster of Granite Building Stone mines has been formed with the distance between the
peripheries of one lease is less than 500 meters even within 50m from the periphery of other lease in
a homogeneous mineral area. Hence the project has been applying as a cluster along with other mines.
The lease has been granted approval for mining plan for a period of 5 years for each clusters by
Geologist, Geology and Mining, Thrissur District
The Granite Building Stone Quarry mine is a private land and mining operation will be for 5 years. The
total extent of land is 0.9447 Ha for which Environmental Clearance is required to operate and to
produce the Granite Building Stone mineral from the site. The Granite Building Stone mineral mine will
be operated by Semi Mechanized Open Cast Semi-Mechanized Mining with Proposed RoM production
capacity around 2,73,125 MT.
Table 10-1: Project Summary & Salient Features within 10Kms radius of the Project Boundary
1. Latitude 10° 27' 51.97"N to 10° 27' 55.25"N
2. Longitude 76° 16' 55.32"E to 76° 16' 58.94"E
3. Site Elevation 48m
above Mean Sea
Level
4. Topography Hilly Terrain
5. Private land which is not fit for extensive vegetation /cultivation. The
Land use of the
lessee had been given precise area for the proposed grant of Rough
site
Stone Quarry Lease.
6. Survey No. 66
116 July 2022


7. Topo sheet No. 58 – B/07
8. Location Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District.
9. Extent of lease 0.9447 Ha

area
10. Quarry Lease 5 Years
period
11. Peak yearly The total Proposed RoM production capacity around 54,625 MT per
production year
capacity
12. Total Mineable The total Mineable reserves per year will be 2,73,125 MT
reserves
13. Waste generation The Total top soil is 8,208 MT.
14. Method of mining Semi Mechanized Open Cast mining
15. Bench parameters Bench height of 5m
Bench Height & Bench Width of 5 m
width Bench slope
16. Life of Mine 5 Years
17. Water Requirement:-
Drinking water & Domestic purpose : 1.0 KLD
Water
Dust suppression: 12.0 KLD
Requirement &
Green belt:2.0 KLD
Source
Total:15.0 KLD
Source : From Existing Mine Pit.
18. The Total Man power requirement is 12 Nos.
Skilled Mine Mate 1 No
Mechanic 1 No
Blaster/Mat 1 No
Semi - Skilled Watchman 1 No
Manpower
Unskilled Musdoor/ Labours 4 Nos
Cleaners 2 Nos
Office Boy 1 No
Management & Supervisory Staff 1 No
Total 12 Nos
19. Project Cost INR 2,50,000.00
20. Nearest Highway NH 544 – 2.65 km (W)
21. Nearest Railway Ollur Railway Station – 6.5 km (W)
Stations
22. Cochin International Air Port – 20 km (SE)
Nearest Airport
23. Nearest Town / Thrissur– 9.5 km (NW)
City Ollur – 4.65 km (W)
117 July 2022


24. Manali River – 1.67 km (W)
Reservoir/Lake/
River/Sea
25. Reserved/ Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary -11.03km (NE)
Protected Marottichal Water Falls - 8.35 km (E)
Forests
26. Kerala - Tamil Nadu State boundary are as follows,
State Boundary
59.18 km (E)
27. National parks/
Wildlife Nil within 10 km Radius
Sanctuaries
28. Archaeological
Important Places
29. Defense
Installations
30. Nearest Port Nil within 10 km Radius
31. Seismic Zone Seismic Zone III as per IS 1893 (Part-1): 2002
10.2 MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT
The Applicant is assigning prime importance for environmental protection. The Applicant will
comply all the environmental laws. The quarry project will maintain well developed Greenbelt.
Also, all the environmental statutory requirements will be implemented and maintained
continually.
10.3 ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVE AREAS
There are no notified ecologically sensitive areas within 10km from project boundary. The
Kerala/Tamil Nadu state boundary runs in East direction at about 51.18 km from the project
boundary. Project doesn’t attract the special conditions and general conditions as per EIA
Notification. Environmentally Sensitive Areas within 10km from Project Boundary is given in Table
10-1.
10.4 SUMMARY OF THE MAGNITUDE OF OPERATION
The project Rough Stone mine is over an extent of 0.9441 Ha located in Survey No. 66 of Thrikkur
Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala. In the mining lease area only 0.9447 hectare
area is available for mining and the Proposed RoM production capacity is around 54,625 MT per year
and about top soil is 8208 MT per Year. It is an open cast mine and it is proposed to do mining by semi
mechanized efficient & scientific operations. Details of Quarry land is given in Table 10-2. Summary of
Geological reserves given in Table 10-3. Summary of Mineable reserves are given in 10-4. Summary of
Year wise development is given in Table 10-5.
118 July 2022

Table 10-2: Quarry Land details

District/ Village Taluk S.F. No. Extent Ownership of
State (ha) Occupancy
Thrissur/Kerala Thrikkur Mukundapuram 66 09447Ha Private Land
Table 10-3: Summary of Geological Reserves

GEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Volume Recoverable
Section Bench in Reserve in Ts
in (m) in (m) in (m) Density
(Cu.m.) in Ts (100%)
I 108 97 1 10476 2 - 20952
II 39 97 5 18915 2.5 47288 -
III 97 97 5 47045 2.5 117613 -
IV 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
XY-AB V 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
VI 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
VII 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
VIII 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
IX 108 97 5 52380 2.5 130950 -
Total 950600 20952
Table 10-4: Summary of Mineable Reserves

MINEABLE RESERVES
Volume Recoverable
Section Bench in Reserve
(Cu.m.) in Ts (100%)
I 72 57 1 4104 2 - 8208
II 30 40 5 6000 2.5 15000 -
III 84 78 5 32760 2.5 81900 -
IV 74 67 5 24790 2.5 61975 -
XY-AB V 64 57 5 18240 2.5 45600 -
VI 54 47 5 12690 2.5 31725 -
VII 44 37 5 8140 2.5 20350 -
VIII 34 27 5 4590 2.5 11475 -
IX 24 17 5 2040 2.5 5100 -
Total 273125 8208
Table 10-5: Summary of Development details of year wise

YEAR WISE DEVELOPMENT
Volume Recoverable
Year Section Bench in Reserve
(Cu.m.) in Ts (100%)
I Year XY-AB I 72 57 1 4104 2 - 8208
119 July 2022

II 30 40 5 6000 2.5 15000 -

III 40 78 5 15600 2.5 39000 -
III 44 78 5 17160 2.5 42900 -
II Year XY-AB
IV 14 67 5 4690 2.5 11725 -
IV 60 67 5 20100 2.5 50250 -
III Year XY-AB
V 6 57 5 1710 2.5 4275 -
V 58 57 5 16530 2.5 41325 -
IV Year XY-AB
VI 23 47 5 5405 2.5 13512.5 -
VI 31 47 5 7285 2.5 18212.5 -
VII 44 37 5 8140 2.5 20350 -
V Year XY-AB
VIII 34 27 5 4590 2.5 11475 -
IX 24 17 5 2040 2.5 5100 -
Grand Total 273125 8208
10.5 LAND REQUIREMENT

The project Granite Building Stone mine is over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey No. 66 of
Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State. The applied Mine Lease area
over an extent of 0.9447 Ha is covered within the survey of India Topo sheet No. 58- B/07 on a scale of
1:50,000 and it lies in the latitude and longitude of
Table 10-6: Location of the Project
Description Geo coordinate
Lattitude 10°27'51.97"N to 10°27'55.25"N
Longitude 76°16'55.32"E to 76°16'58.94"E
Table 10-7: Land Use Pattern of Quarry Area

Present Area Area at the end of this
Description
(Ha.) quarrying period (Ha.)
Area under Quarrying 0.1747 0.7547
Infrastructure Nil 0.0200
Roads 0.0100 0.0200
Green Belt /Afforestation Nil 0.1500
Unutilized 0.6700 Nil
Grand Total 0.9447 0.9447
120 July 2022

10.6 WATER REQUIREMENT

Total water requirement for the mining project is 15.0 KLD. Water will be required for the Domestic
purpose, Dust Suppression & Green belt development etc. It is proposed to make borehole for
providing uninterrupted supply of Drinking water.
Table 10-8: Water Requirement
S. NO. DESCRIPTION WATER IN (KLD)
1 Domestic Water use (For Labours) 1.0
2 Dust Suppression (Material 12.0
Transportation)
3 Greenbelt Development 2.0
Total 15.0 KLD
10.7 POWER & FUEL REQUIREMENT
Power Requirement - Simple mechanical methods will be adopted and the limited scale of
activities to be involved in Rough Stone mining does not require high- tension electric power. The
mining work will be restricted to one general shift during daytime only. Existing features will be used
and there is no change in power usage However, the power requirement of the administrative
buildings, roads etc can be met from state grid. Besides, standby generator will be available to meet
the emergency power requirement of the mines.
10.8 MANPOWER REQUIREMENT
As per the Mines safety under the provisions of KMMCR, 2015 under the mines act, 1952 whenever
the workers are employed more than 10, it is preferred to have a qualified Mining mate to keep all the
production workers directly under his control and supervision.
The following manpower is proposed for quarrying Building Stone during the five years period to
achieve the proposed production and to comply the provisions of the government norms.
Table 10-9: Man Power Requirement
S.No Description No’s
1 Skilled Operator 1
Mechanic 1
Blaster/Mat 1
2 Semi - Skilled Watchman 21
3 Unskilled Musdoor/ 4
Labours
Cleaners 2
Office Boy 1
4 Management & Supervisory Staff 1
Total 12 Nos
121 July 2022

10.9 SOLID WASTE GENERATION & MANAGEMENT

during the first five years of Mining Plan period, such waste materials are proposed to be dumped
along the Southern part of the lease area where it comprises of country rock terrain. The total waste
to be generated during the Mining plan period will be around 8,208 M3 /year.
10.10 SEWERAGE SYSTEM

Semi-permanent latrines & urinals shall be maintained at convenient places for the use labours
separately for males and females, Washing facilities shall also be arranged
10.11 RECLAMATION AND REHABILITATION
The mined out area will be fenced on top of open cast working with S1 fencing. Low lying areas with
water logging shall be used for fish culture. No immediate proposals for closure pit as the building
stone persist still at deeper level.
10.12 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVE SITES CONSIDERED
The Building Stone deposits are site specific in nature; hence question of seeking alternate site does
not arise.
10.13 PROJECT COST
The proposed project cost including the landcost, operational cost, EMP Cost and CER Cost is shown in
the table 10-9.
Table 10-10: Land Cost for the project.

Land Cost and Fixed Asset 87,50,000/-
Operational Cost 1,25,00,000/-
EMP Cost 15,00,000/-
CER Cost 22,50,000/-
Total Cost 2,50,00,000/-
10.14 BASELINE STUDY
10.14.1 Meteorological Environment
The micro-meteorological conditions during the study period for hourly data of wind speed, wind
direction and temperature were recorded at the project site. The nearest Indian Meteorological
Department (IMD) station located to project site is at Mannuthy, the annually determined wind
direction is North East. The site specific meteorological data during the study period (March 2022 to
May 2020). Maximum temperature is 33o C. Minimum temperature is 25o C, Average temperature 25o
C. Relative humidity is 74 %. Average Wind Speed is in study period is 9 Km/hr Study period
122 July 2022

predominant wind pattern is South West.

10.14.2 Ambient Air Quality
Maximum concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, SO2, NO2, are well within the National Ambient Air Quality
Standards for Industrial, Commercial and Residential areas at all monitoring locations during the study
period. The ambient air quality has been monitored at 8 locations for 4 parameters as per NAAQS, 2009
within the study area. The average baseline levels of PM10(36.8-44.1 µg/m³), PM2.5(19.1 – 24.6µg/m³),
SO2 (4.1 – 4.5 µg/m³) and NOx (3.3 – 3.8 µg/m³) all the parameters are well within the National Ambient
Air Quality Standards for Industrial and Residential areas at all monitoring locations during the study
period.
10.14.3 Noise Environment
The existing ambient noise levels were monitored using precision noise level meter in and around the
project site at 10 km radius at 6 locations during study period (December 2019 to February 2020).
In residential area day time noise levels varied from 42.2 dB (A) to 46.0 dB (A) and night time noise
levels varied from 35.2 dB (A) to 37.3 dB (A) across the sampling stations. The field observations during
the study period indicate that the ambient noise levels in Residential area are all well within the limits.
10.14.4 Water Environment
The prevailing status of water quality at 06 locations for ground water have been assessed during
monitoring period. The standard methods prescribed in IS were followed for sample collection,
preservation and analysis in the laboratory for various physiochemical parameters.
10.14.5 Results
10.14.5.1 Ground Water Quality
 The average pH ranges from 5.56 – 6.70
 TDS value varied from 58 mg/l to 74 mg/l
 Sulphate ranges from 2.4 mg/l – 4.8 mg/l
 Total hardness ranges are between 18.4 mg/l – 22.4 mg/l
 Total alkalinity ranges from 12.1 mg/l to 14.5 mg/l
 Calcium ranges from 4.8 mg/l to 6.8 mg/l
 Magnesium ranges from 1.49 mg/l to 4.78 mg/l
 Chloride ranges from 14.9 mg/l to 18.3 mg/l are well within the permissible limits.
 Most of the heavy metals concentrations in the study area samples are below detection limits
and all are well within the limits.
10.14.5.2 Surface Water Quality
 Colour: The colour of surface water samples was found in the range of BDL (<1) to 5 Hazen units.
123 July 2022

 Odour: Surface water sample were found odourless.

 Turbidity: The turbidity of surface water sample was found in the range 0.1 NTU to 0.4 NTU
 pH: The pH value of all surface water sample ranges from 7.2 -7.6
 Electrical Conductivity: Electrical conductivity in surface water sample ranges from 92 - 98 μS/cm.
 Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): The TDS in surface water sample range from 62– 69 mg/l.
 Total Alkalinity: The total alkalinity of surface water sample range between 20.1 – 26.8 mg/l.
 Total Hardness: The total hardness of surface water sample range between 24.5 – 27.2 mg/l.
 Calcium: The Calcium content in surface water sample range from 6.4 – 7.6 mg/l.
 Magnesium: The Magnesium content in surface water sample range from 1.9 – 3.24 mg/l.
 Chloride: The chloride content in surface water sample range from 8.99 – 9.56 mg/l.
10.14.5.3 Soil Environment
Assessment of soil characteristics is of paramount importance since the vegetation growth, agricultural
practices and production is directly related to the soil fertility and quality. Soil sampling was carried
out at six (08) locations in the study area. It is observed that,
 The pH values ranging from 7.15 to 8.11 indicating the moderate and ideal of plant growth
properties.
 The texture of the soil sample is predominantly Loam in most of the places with Clay Loam &
Clay in some locations. The sand, silt and clay properties were found to be in the range of 25.2
to 51.4%, 16.7 to 37.5 % and 21.6 to 55.8%.
 The conductivity of the soil ranges from 0.077 mS/cm to 0.356 mS/cm.
 The moisture content in the study locations ranged from 3.61 % to 6.11 %.
 The available nitrogen content ranges between 174 kg/Ha to 297 kg/Ha in the locality and the
value of phosphorus content varies between 16.8 kg/Ha to 40.4 kg/Ha. This indicates that the
soil has very high quantities of Nitrogen and Phosphorus.
 The potassium content varies from 225 kg/Ha to 384 kg/Ha, which indicates that the soils have
medium levels of potassium.
 The organic carbon properties of the soil was found to be in the range of 0.40 % to 0.88 % and
Organic Matter was found to be in the range of 0.69 % to 1.52 %.
10.15 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT
The species observed in the study area are mostly commercial crops and plantation crops and breaks
were also observed throughout the semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forest types. There is no
extinct flora and fauna species found in the study area.
124 July 2022

10.15.1 Socio Economic Environment

A socio-economic study was undertaken in assessing aspects which are dealing with social and cultural
conditions, and economic status in the study area. The study provides information such as
demographic structure, population dynamics, infrastructure resources, and the status of human health
and economic attributes like employment, per-capita income, agriculture, trade, and industrial
development in the study area. The study of these characteristic helps in identification, prediction and
evaluation of impacts on socio-economic and parameters of human interest due to proposed project
developments. The parameters are:
 Demographic structure
 Infrastructure Facility
 Economic Status
 Health status
 Cultural attributes
Table 10-11:Summary of Demographic Structure in Thrissur District
S.No Demographic Parameters Study Area Details
1 Name of state Kerala
2 Name of District Thrissur
3 Name of Taluka Mukundapuram
4 No. of Total Villages 33
5 Total No. of Households 2,10,491
6 Total Population 8,31,363
7 Male Population 3,96,592
8 Female Population 4,34,771
9 Sex ratio (No. of female/1000 males) 1,096
10 Scheduled castes 97,697
11 Scheduled Tribes 3,893
12 Literate 95.38%
13 Main Worker 257,064
14 Marginal Worker 51,869
15 Non Worker 522,430
Source: Primary Census Abstract– 2011, Thrissur District, Kerala
The salient features of Demographic Structure are as follows:

 The study area covers Thrissur District in Kerala State, Mukundapuram Taluk and total 33
villages in the study area. With the population density of 8,31,363 person.Total population in
the study region (as per Census 2011) is 8,31,363 with 3,96,592 male and 4,34,771 female
populations. Overall sex ratio is 1096 Female per 1000 male, indicating male population is
marginally higher in the region as compared with the female.
 Total Scheduled Caste population is 97,697 Scheduled Caste.
125 July 2022

 Total Scheduled Tribe population is 3,893.

10.16 INFRASTRUCTURE RESOURCES
The infrastructure resources in the study area with reference to education, medical facility, water
supply, post and telegraph, transportation and communication and power supply are satisfactory. The
details of infrastructure resources have been abstracted from housing, household amenities and assets
of Thrissur District. The description of infrastructure resources attributes are:
Education: All villages in the study area have education facilities such as primary school with reasonably
good facilities. In the study is school/institute for secondary/higher secondary education facilities and
technical institute are available. Students have opportunity to travel also for better education.
Public Health Services: Almost villages in the study area are having medical facilities. While conducting
surveys, out of this area some villages Health facility and other villages having private clinic, hospital
are there for better medical treatment, the people move to nearby town and district of Thrissur, where
Government hospital, private hospital, clinic etc, medical facilities are available.
Drinking Water: In surveyed all villages, it was found that people are using open well for drinking
purposes; however, pond water also used of other purpose. There is no drinking water problem.
Power Supply: Electricity is available in all the surveyed villages. During the survey it was found that
there is negligible load shedding. All purpose is using Electricity facility in the study area. Electricity use
in the study area is all purposes.
Communication and Transportation: All villages having good road facility in the study area. It was
observed that there is enough bus service and primarily buses run in the whole day, on the
Marathakkara Marottichal Road as well as the nearest highway. Regular local transport facility is
available in the villages, like auto rickshaw and Taxis. All villages having good road connectivity in the
study area.
Road Approach: All villages are having road, approach routes either paved road and foot path. Thrissur
is well-connected by roads like other districts of Kerala State
Banks: All centralized bank in all Taluks of Thrissur District. People are using bank facility for saving
money.
Gram Panchayat: The gram Panchayat, Panchayat Union and Tahsildar are the three responsible
functionaries in the decentralization of administration, which are entrusted with the implementation
of developmental schemes in the State for five-year plans and to provide for decentralization of powers
and functions under certain enactments was passed in 1961.
10.17 ECONOMIC ATTRIBUTES
The classification of workers is related with their occupation. Economic resource based of any region
126 July 2022

mainly depends upon its economically active group i.e. the working population involved in productive
work. Work may be defined as participation in any economically productive activity. Such participation
may be physical or mental in nature. Work involves not actual work but also effective supervision and
direction of work. It also includes unpaid work on farm or in family enterprise.
10.18 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
 Air Environment
The emissions mainly generated from the mining activities are Drilling, Blasting, Excavation, Loading,
transportation and Unloading etc. Machinery like jack hammers are used for Drilling. Fugitive dust
control in mine is given in Table 10-12.
Table 10-12: Fugitive Dust Control in mine
S. No Activities Best practices
1 Drilling Drills should be provided with dust extractors(dry or wet system)
3 Transportation Covering of the trucks/dumpers to avoid spillage
of mined Compacted haul road
material Speed control on vehicles
Development of a green belt of suitable width on both sides of road,
which acts as wind break and traps fugitive dust
 Noise Environment
Baseline study showed that the noise levels in both Industrial area and in Residential area are slightly
exceeded the limit prescribed by MoEF&CC. The designed equipment with noise levels not exceeding
beyond the requirements of Occupational Health and Safety Administration Standard will be
employed.
 Biological Environment
To reduce the adverse effects on flora/fauna status that are found in project area due to deposition of
dust generating from mining operations, water sprinkling and water spraying systems will be ensured
in all dust prone areas to arrest dust generation.
 Stabilization and Vegetation of Dumps
As the waste generation in the mine includes hard rock fragments of considerable size and irregular
shape with varying angularity, the waste dump will be stable on its own even at higher slopes of the
sides. However suitable variety of soil will be brought from outside, the same is spread out over and
sides of the waste dumps and also for tree sapling will be carried out for increasing the stability and to
prevent erosion during the rainy season.
127 July 2022

10.19 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM

A monitoring schedule with respect to Ambient Air Quality, Water & Wastewater Quality, Noise Quality
as per Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), shall be maintained.
10.20 GREEN BELT DEVELOPMENT
Safety distance along the eastern side of the lease area has been identified to be utilized for
afforestation. Appropriate species of trees will be planted in phased manner as described as follows:
Table 10-12: Phased Programming of Trees
Safety No. of trees
No. of trees Name of Survival Rate
Year Distance expected
to planted species expected in %
(m) to be growth
I 50 2 80% 40
II 50 2 80% 40
Tamarind/
III 50 2 80% 40
Casuarines/
IV 50 2 80% 40
V 50 2 80% 40
The total area for proposed for five years of Mining Plan period for Green belt is around 0.1500 Ha out
of 0.9447 Ha. The estimated budget for plantation and maintenance of Green belt development would
be around 1,25,000/-
10.21 DISASTER MANAGEMENT PLAN
The salient features of Disaster Management Plan include
 Emergency shutdown procedure
 Fire protection system
 Emergency safety equipment & Reporting and response to emergency
10.22 CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
 Granite Building Stone - Thrikkurr Village site had no Relocation and Rehabilitation.
 Most villages will be benefitted mutually at Thrikkur where the mining industry has provided
indirect jobs for labour and villages provide accommodation for the labour and staff.
 Supportive industries like food supply and essential shops will spur economic growth in the
villages. Project related ancillary services.
Applicant will comply with the 1st May 2018 OM w.r.t. CER and the cost will be assessed on actual
project capital expenditure of that particular financial year.
CER Expenditure outlay shall be spent in various social development cost based on the assessed needs
@ 9% of the estimated project cost i.e., Rs.22.5 Lakhs over a period of 5 years.
10.23 BENEFITS OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT
 The quarrying activities in this belt will benefit to the local people directly 12 persons.
128 July 2022

 The direct beneficiaries will be those who get employed in the mines as skilled and unskilled
workers. Improvement in Per Capita Income.
 The socio - Economic conditions of the village and distance will enhance due to the project,
hence the project should be allowed after considering all the parameters.
 It can thus be concluded that the project is environmentally compatible, financially viable and
would be in the interest of construction industry thereby indirectly benefiting the masses.
129 July 2022

11 . DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANT
This chapter describes about the environmental consultant engaged in preparation of EIA report for
Proposed Granite Building Stone mine is over an extent of 0.9447 Ha located in Survey No. 66 of
Thrikkur Village, Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur District, Kerala State.
11.1 INTRODUCTION
ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited (formerly ABC Environ Solutions Pvt. Ltd.) is an ISO 9001, ISO
14001 & OHSAS 18001 Certified Company & leading Environmental Engineering & Consultancy
Company constantly striving towards newer heights since its inception in 2006. Our Company is
dedicated to providing strategic services in the areas of Environment, Infrastructure, Energy,
Engineering and Multi lab.
It is the first firm to be accredited by NABET (National Accreditation Board for Education and Training),
Quality Council of India, as an EIA Consultant, approved for carrying out EIA studies and obtaining
environmental clearance for various sectors such as Thermal Power Plants, Infrastructure, Industrial
Estates/Complexes/Areas, Mining, Township & area development and Building construction projects
etc. ABC Techno Labs is equipped with in-house, spacious laboratory, accredited by NABL (National
Accreditation Board for Testing & Calibration Laboratories), Department of Science & Technology,
Government of India.
Since establishment ABC Techno Labs focus on sustainable development of Industry and Environment
based on sound engineering practices, innovation, quality, R&D and most important is satisfying
customers need. The company has successfully completed more than 100 projects of a variety of
industries, in the field of pollution control and environmental management solutions. The company is
also dealing in the projects of waste minimization and cleaner production technology.
The team of technocrats and scientist are well experienced to deal with the design, Manufacture,
Fabrication, Installation, commissioning of Effluent/ Wastewater treatment plants, Sewage Treatment
plants, and Combined Treatment plants. The company is having well-experienced team of Scientists &
Engineers who are looking after environmental projects & well-equipped analytical laboratory with a
facility including analysis of physical, chemical and biological parameters as per the requirements of
the State Pollution Control Board and our clients.
11.2 SERVICES OF ABC TECHNO LABS INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED
1. Environmental Services
 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
 Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
130 July 2022

 Social Impact Assessment (SIA)

 Environmental Baseline data collection for Air, Meteorology, Noise, Water, Soil, Ecology, Socio-
Economic and Demography etc;
 Environmental Monitoring
 Socio-Economic Studies
 Resettlement & Rehabilitation Plan
 Ecological & Human Health Risk Assessment Studies
 Ecological Impact Assessment
 Environmental Management Framework
 Solid Waste Management
 Hazardous Waste Management
 Internship & Training
2. Turnkey projects
 Water Treatment Plants
 Sewage Treatment Plant
 Recycling & Water Conservation Systems
 Zero Discharge System
3. Other services
 Operation & Maintenance of Water & Waste Water Plants
 Water & Waste Water Treatment Chemicals
 Pilot Plant studies
 Feasibility studies & preparation of budgetary estimates
4. Laboratory services
 Chemical Testing
 Environmental Testing
 Microbiological Testing
 Food Testing
 Metallurgical Testing.
11.3 SECTORS ACCREDITED BY NABET
S.No. Sector No. Name of sectors
1 1 Mining of Minerals including Opencast & Underground Mining
2 2 Offshore & Onshore Oil and gas exploration, development & productions
3 3 Irrigation Projects
4 4 Thermal Power Plant
131 July 2022

S.No. Sector No. Name of sectors

5 7 Mineral Beneficiation including palletisation
6 8 Metallurgical Industries – (Ferrous only) Secondary
7 9 Cement Plants
8 10 Petroleum Refining Industry
9 12 Asbestos milling and asbestos based products
10 15 Leather/Skin/hide processing industry
11 16 Chemical Fertilizers
Petro-chemical Complexes (industries based on processing of petroleum
12 18
fractions & natural gas and/or reforming to aromatics)
Petrochemical based processing (Processes other than cracking & reformation
13 20
and not covered under the complexes)
Synthetic organic chemicals industry (dyes & dye intermediates; bulk drugs
and intermediated excluding drug formulations; synthetic rubbers; basic
14 21
organic chemicals, other synthetic organic chemicals and chemical
intermediates)
15 22 Distilleries
Pulp & paper industry excluding manufacturing of paper from wastepaper and
16 24
manufacture of paper from ready pulp without bleaching
17 25 Sugar Industry
Oil & gas transportation pipe line (crude and refinery/ petrochemical
18 27 products), passing through national parks / sanctuaries / coral reefs /
ecologically sensitive areas including LNG Terminal
Isolated storage & handling of hazardous chemicals (As per threshold planning
19 28 quantity indicated in column 3 of schedule 2 & 3 of MSIHC Rules 1989
amended 2000)
20 29 Airports
Industrial estates/ parks/ complexes/ areas, export processing Zones (EPZs),
21 31
Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Biotech Parks, Leather Complexes
Industrial estates/ Parks/ Complexes/ Areas, export processing zones (EPZs),
22 32
Special economic zone (SEZs), Biotech parks, and Leather complexes.
23 33 Ports, Harbours, break waters and dredging
24 34 Highways.
25 36 Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs)
26 37 Common Municipal Solid Waste Management Facility (CMSWMF)
27 38 Building and Construction projects.
28 39 Townships and Area development projects
Source: ABC Techno Labs India Pvt. Ltd.
11.4 STUDY TEAM
ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited has carried out this Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
study. The multidisciplinary team included expertise in Environmental Impact Assessment, Air & Water
pollution & Control measures, Noise Control measures, Ecology & bio-diversity, Land use, Geology,
Environmental Chemistry and Socio-Economic planner. The team members involved in EIA study area:
132 July 2022

Name of the EIA Coordinator involved in the preparation of this report

S. No. Functional Areas Name of the Expert/s
1 EIA Coordinator Dr. R.K.Jayaseelan
Assistant EIA
2 Haneesh K R
Coordinator
S. No. Functional Areas Name of the Expert/s

1 AP Haneesh K R
2 HG Mr.P.V.R.S.Surendra
3 GEO Mr.M.S.Bhaskar
4 AQ Mrs.K.Vijayalakshmi
5 RH Mrs.K.Vijayalakshmi
6 NV Haneesh K R
7 SHW Mrs. S.Sathya
8 EB Abhik Saha
9 LU Dr. R.K.Jayaseelan
10 SC R.Rajendran
11 SE Sushil Meshram
12 WP Haneesh K R
Team Members
Team Member- Mr. Dinesh T U
13
FAA
133 July 2022

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Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Proposed Cluster Mines of Granite Building Stone

ABC Techno Labs India Pvt Ltd.

DECLARATION BY EIA CONSULTANT

For and on behalf of ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited

DISCLOSURE AS PER NABET /QCI

Schedule as per EIA 1(a)

Declaration by experts contributing to the Environmental Impact Assessment Report

FUNCTIONAL AREA EXPERTS:

2 HG Mr.P.V.R.S.Surendra November 2019– Till date

3 GEO Mr.M.S.Bhaskar November 2019– Till date

7 SHW Mrs. S.Sathya November 2019– Till date

8 EB Abhik Saha November 2019– Till date

9 LU Dr. R.K.Jayaseelan November 2019– Till date

10 SC R.Rajendran November 2019– Till date

11 SE Sushil Meshram November 2019– Till date

12 WP Mr. Haneesh K R November 2019– Till date

Declaration by the head of the Accredited Consultant Organization

1.2.2 Identification of Project Proponent ....................................................................... 16

1.2.3 Overview of the Project ........................................................................................ 17

1.2.4 Nature of the Project ............................................................................................ 18

1.2.5 Location of the Project .......................................................................................... 18

1.2.6 Purpose of the Report ........................................................................................... 19

1.2.7 Importance to the country and Region.................................................................. 20

1.2.8 Supply and demand details ................................................................................... 20

1.3 Objectives of the Study............................................................................................. 20

2.2 Size Or Magnitude of Operation ............................................................................... 27

2.3 Topography of the Project Site ................................................................................. 27

2.7 Technology & Process Description ............................................................................ 29

2.7.2 Method of Mining ................................................................................................. 30

2.7.3 Method of Estimation of Reserve .......................................................................... 31

2.7.4 Extent of Mechanization ....................................................................................... 34

2.7.5 Stacking of minerals and disposal of waste ........................................................... 35

2.7.6 Conceptual Mining plan ........................................................................................ 35

2.7.7 Manpower Requirement ....................................................................................... 35

2.7.8 Power Requirement .............................................................................................. 36

2.7.9 Water requirement ............................................................................................... 36

2.7.10 Sewerage System .................................................................................................. 37

2.7.11 Reclamation and Rehabilitation ............................................................................ 37

2.7.12 Phased Programme for planting Trees .................................................................. 37

2.8 WELFARE MEASURES ................................................................................................ 38

2.8.2 Sanitary Facilities .................................................................................................. 38

2.8.3 First aid facility ...................................................................................................... 38

2.8.4 Labour Health ....................................................................................................... 38

2.8.5 Precautionary safety measures to the labourers. .................................................. 38

2.9 Project Cost .............................................................................................................. 38

3.4.2 Regional Metrology............................................................................................... 42

3.4.3 Site Specific Meteorology...................................................................................... 43

3.5 Geomorphology ....................................................................................................... 44

3.6.2 Generation of Thematic Layers ............................................................................. 45

3.6.3 Land use / Land cover map (LU/LC) ....................................................................... 45

3.6.4 Inferenc ................................................................................................................ 47

3.7 Air Environment ....................................................................................................... 48

3.7.2 Parameters for Sampling ....................................................................................... 49

3.7.3 Instruments Used For Sampling ............................................................................ 49

3.7.4 Sampling and Analytical Techniques ..................................................................... 49

3.7.5 Results .................................................................................................................. 50

3.8 Noise Environment ................................................................................................... 50

3.8.2 Instrument used for Sampling ............................................................................... 51

3.8.3 Method of Monitoring .......................................................................................... 51

3.8.4 Results .................................................................................................................. 52

3.8.5 Observations ......................................................................................................... 53

3.9 Water Environment .................................................................................................. 53