conservation plan for spotted deer sanctuary project...

Krishna mines

Document Title: Wild Life Conservation Plan for Spotted Deer Sanctuary Limestone Mine GO No :8480 DOC. No. : IND.BH.41.14.0070/HSR Rev. 000

M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Pvt. Ltd., Hyderabad [A Bureau Veritas Group Company]

Conservation Plan for Spotted Deer Sanctuary

Project Proponent: M/s Krishna Mines. Limestone MineG.O.No :8480

.

Document Reference : IND.BH.41.14.0070/HSR Revision: 000, Dated 09.10.2014

Dr

Copyright Bureau Veritas India Pvt. Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without permission of the Publisher.

Krishna mines



REVIEW AND REVISION HISTORY History of revisions of the present report:

Rev Date Modifications

000, 09.10.2014 First issue

Table I: History of the Revisions

Document: IND.BH.41.140070/HSR

REV. 000

09.10.2014

Conservation plan for obtaining

Recommendation from Standing

Committee of NWLB

Rahul Jarupula/ Sandhya Kondaveety

M.V.Raghavacharyulu (Vice President)

E. Shyam Sundar (Head Environment)

REV DATE DESCRIPTION PREPARED BY REVIEWED BY APPROVED BY

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Contents Chapter Description Page No

1 Introduction 5 – 6 1.1 Background of the Project 5 1.2 Need for Wildlife Conservation Plan 6

2 Scope of the Study 7- 16 2.1 Field Visits and Study Methodology 7 2.2 Description of the Project 7 2.3 Topography& Geology 7 2.4 Mining 8 2.5 Transport equipment & Machinery 9 2.6 Post Mining Reclamation and Land Use Pattern 9 2.7 Study Area 9 2.8 Climate 15 2.9 Temperature 15

2.10 Rainfall 15 2.11 Relative Humidity 15 2.12 Winds 15 2.13 Geology 15 2.14 Soil 15 2.15 Infrastructure 16

3 About Gangaikondan Deer Sanctuary 17- 26 3.1 Details of the Sanctuary 17 3.2 Boundary of Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary 17

3.2.1 Flora 22 3.2.2 Fauna 23

4 Land Use / Land Cover and 3D Modeling 27- 32 4.1 Scope 27 4.2 Tools & Resources 27 4.3 Land Use Land Cover Classification 29

5 Impacts & Mitigation Measures 33- 41 5.1 Impact Assessment 33 5.2 Noise Level Predictions 33 5.3 Impacts of Blasting 39 5.4 Natural Threats identified 41

5.4.1 Loss of Habitat 41 5.4.2 Loss of habitat continuity 41 5.4.3 Water scarcity 41 5.4.4 Removal of Forest Products 41

6 Conservation Plan for Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary

42- 46

6.1 Improvement of Plantation in the area 42 6.2 Awareness program 42 6.3 Joint forest management 42 6.4 Sanctuary Protection Plan 43 6.5 Protection plan for combating accidents on highways 43 6.6 Species specific conservation plan 43

6.6.1 Broad objectives 43 6.6.2 Approach for implementation of plan 43

6.7 Conservation Plan for Pavo Cristatus 44 6.7.1 Habitat & ecology 44 6.7.2 Threats 44 6.7.3 Interventions for conservation 44

6.8 Safeguard Measures 45 6.9 Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) 45

6.10 Members of BMC 46 6.11 Biodiversity Monitoring Study 46 6.12 Conclusion 46

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List of Tables

Table No Description Page No

1 Particulars of GO Numbers 5 2 Existing & Proposed Productions 6 3 Mining Machinery 9 4 Post mining reclamation and land use 9 5 List of Flora in Gangaikondan Deer Sanctuary 21 6 List of Fauna in Gangaikondan Deer Sanctuary 21 7 List of Flora in Study area 23 8 List of Fauna in Study area 25 9 Land Use Land Cover Details of Buffer zone 30

10 Land Use of Mine Lease Area 32 11 Details of Noise Generating Machinery Considered for

Acoustic Modeling 33

12 Mitigation Measures adopted by M/s The India Cements Ltd.

34

13 Estimated Peak Particle Velocity for different Explosive Charges

39

14 Permissible Standards for Ground Vibrations 39 15 Budget for intervention of Schedule I species 44 16 Budget for Sanctuary Conservation Plan 45

List of Figures

Fig No Title Page No 1 Project Location Map 10 2 Map showing location of Plant and Mines w.r.t Spotted

Deer Sanctuary 11

3 Study Area Map 12 4 Google Map 13 5 Surface Plan of Mine Lease Area 14 6 Map of Gangaikondan Deer Sanctuary 19 7 Google Map showing the sanctuary area 20

7A 3D Map showing the sanctuary area 20 8 Location Map for Satellite imagery 27 9 IRS R2 LISS -III FMX data of the core and buffer zone 28

10 Pie Chart showing Land use in buffer zone 30 11 Land Use Land Cover Map of 10 KM Radius 31

Krishna mines



1.0 Introduction

Krishna mine is one of the premier mining and mineral resources company with five decades of experience in mineral industry. We are recognized as a leader in limestone, associated products manufacturing industry of south India. Our portfolio of mineral assets includes Krishna mines limestone mining – Operating since 1958 a rich concentration of high grade ore of Ramayanpatti limestone band, associated processing plant and Manufacturing units of high quality limestone and lime powders. 1.1 Background of the Project Krishna mines are situated in the Ramayanpatti village of the Tirunelveli taluk and district of Tamilnadu state. The Krishna mines are one of the major producer of limestone in southern Tamilnadu. The mine is operated under two leases (Latest G.O.N.O. 8480 of the company own patta land of 31.092 ha and the latest G.O.N.O.115 of government revenue land of 12.12 ha ) both the G.O.’s are working contiguously. The mine is supplying its limestone production to the M/S. India cements ltd. Sankarnagar for their modernized dry process cement plant and to other limestone based manufacturers. Krishna mines started its production from the year 1958. The brief history of the mining lease details is summarized below. Particulars of mining lease Go.No.8480

Table-1

Particulars G.O.NO and date Period of the lease

Form To Date of

execution Expiry of the lease

Extent in Ha

Original lease

2557/10.0501962

20 years

28.01.1963 27.01.1983 28.01.1963 28.01.1983 31.09

2 First

renewal 1081/2.9.1983

20 years

28.01.1983 27.01.2003 25.01.1984 28.01.2003 31.09

2 Second renewal

8480/11.06.2004

10 years

28.01.2003 29.11.2013 29.11.2004 30.11.2013 31.09

2 The renewal of the mining lease application was filed by the applicant and now the mine is operating under

deemed extension condition.

The application for the renewal of mining lease for a further period of 20 years form 28.01.2013 has been submitted in form – j of the mineral concession rules 1960 letter dated 21.01.2012. to the state government through the District collector Tirunelveli. The mining plan was prepared by the applicant and the same was approved by the Indian bureau of mines southern zone. Bangalore of letter no TN/TNL/MP/LST-SZ dated – 02.09.2013. the mining plan period is from 28.01.2013 to 2017-18.

Krishna mines



Table-2

S. No

GO No & Date Village Area Existing

Production/Capacity

Proposed Production/Capacity

TPA 01 8480 of

11.06.2004 Krishna Mines 31.09 318564 445870

02 115 of 22.12.2003 Krishna Mines 12.12 49993 137827

1.2 Need for Wildlife Conservation Plan Krishna mines, has been pro-active regarding issues related with biodiversity and wildlife conservation and company considers these issues as strategic business issue. The Limestone Mine (GO No 8480) of Krishna mines falls at a distance of 9.5 km radius from the Spotted Deer Sanctuary which was declared in the year 2013. As per the order of Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India, Wild Life Division vide No: 6-10/2011 WL dated 19th December 2012; Guidance document for taking up non forest activities in wild life habitats para # 3.5.1 Activities within 10 km from boundaries of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries: " In pursuance to the order of Hon'ble Supreme Court Dated 4th December 2006 in Writ Petition (Civil) No 460/2004, in case any project requiring Environmental Clearance, is located within the eco-sensitive zone around a Wild Life Sanctuary or National Park or in absence of delineation of such zone, within a distance of 10 km from its boundaries, the User agency / Project Proponent is required to obtain recommendations of the Standing Committee of NBWL.. Since the present project is around 9.5 km away from the spotted deer Sanctuary. This project requires recommendation of the Standing Committee of NBWL. This conservation plan has been prepared after the site visit, of forest area within the Zone of Impact i.e 10.0 km from the lease boundary and after discussion with forest officials, as per requirement for preparation of this conservation plan. The process during the operation of the mining operations has been reviewed, possible impacts examined and ameliorative measures are suggested accordingly in this report. M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Pvt Ltd is grateful for the guidance and technical assistance provided by Shri Lakshminayan IFS, PCCF & Chief Wild Life Warden, Shri Rakesh Kumar Dogra, IFS,Conservator of Forest Tirunelveli Division, , Shri J.S.Ambrose, DFO Tirunelveli and Shri Mathialagan.

Krishna mines



2.0: SCOPE OF THE STUDY

M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Pvt Ltd was entrusted the job of carrying our Ecological Studies and prepare the Wild Life Conservation Plan for the present project. M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Pvt Ltd undertook the study with the following scope:

Study of flora and fauna in core and buffer zone area falling in a radius of 10 km from Plant boundary

Preparation of ecological profile of core and buffer area Ecological impacts due to the project activity Acoustic Modeling to evaluate the impacts of plant activities on the Sanctuary Area Prepare conservation plan for wildlife based on the identified impacts

2.1 Field Visits and Study Methodology Strategy and methods followed to achieve various objectives such as study of flora and fauna assessment of ecological impacts are described here. Since the area is large, a reconnaissance survey of the study area was carried out by walking along the study area and also by moving by the vehicle during first visit to understand habitat of the area, sanctuary area, forest cover, type of forest and vegetation present, topography, land use etc. Besides this exercise Google Earth image/ Topo map were used for selection of sampling locations. Based on this information various locations in the study area were identified and visited. Sampling involved vehicular transects along the roads in village environs and in forest areas which were accessible by roads and foot transects in forest patches. Observations were made by moving around a particular point in all directions for about 100m to 200 m for documenting various aspects such as Flora, direct and indirect evidence of mammals, bird, reptile, butterflies and other features like forest types, vegetation and topography. Information on flora, fauna, topography, elevation and vegetation were collected from Divisional Forest office, Tirunelveli Authenticated List Enclosed as Annexure 1. The interaction with State Forest Department was extremely useful and valuable as it has provided an insight to distribution various animals in the study area. An application was submitted to DFO, Chief Conservator of Forest, and PCCF & PCWL for conducting a joint survey. However, since the official informed that a survey was already carried out and information of Spotted Deer Sanctuary is already available, they suggested utilizing the information and carryout the study. However, a Reconnaissance survey was carried out around the Sanctuary area and also within the study area to understand the Ecology of the study area.

2.2 Description of the Project The proposal is for mining of limestone. 2.3 Topography and Geology Regional Geology: The rocks in this region consist of varied mixed gneisses and charnockite of Archaean. Due to intense metamorphism coupled with intrusive activities, these rock formations seen as heterogeneous assemblages of metamorphic facies. The arenaceous facies are represented by quartzite rocks and argillaceous facies are represented by calc gneiss and

Krishna mines



calcareous facies are represent by crystalline limestone respectively. These rocks are generally termed as granulitic group of rocks.

Local Geology: Most of this area has a flat topography with minimum elevation of 81m MSL in south side the maximum elevation is 91 m of MSL at north side of the area. There is a small hillock in the northern side. The mine is flanked both on the eastern side and the western side by the mines of M/s. The India cements ltd. The adjacent land on the southern side is dry land are seen due to less rainfall and hard rock nature in this area. Entire area is present as desolate patch, In the southern part of the Indian pre Cambrian shield comprising a wide variety of geological formation ranging from Precambrian to recent period. The different type of charnokite rocks and metasediments. Gneiss formations are disturbed throughout the tirunelveli district. The central part of the district is reported with predominant zone of the quartz beds and associated crystalline limestone and calc. the gneiss with intercalated layer and bands of pyroxene granulites' within quartz. The crystalline limestone deposits are Precambrian age and represent the metamorphosed sediments of dharwrian age and forms a part of major ramayanpatti limestone band, which traverse on the east west direction for about three kilometers. This is one of the most important limestone deposit in tamilnadu. The geology of the northern part of the mine is different from the southern part of the mine. In the northern part of the overburden of the average depth is 50m from the ground level. And mainly consist of weathered biotitegnesiss along with limestone deposit. The southern part of the mine is consist of charnockite, gneiss, quartzite, crystalline limestone of different colour and grades. The biotite gneiss which predominantly occurs in the northern part of the mine occur very feebly on the southern side. The limestone ore body in this mine dipping at about 70 degree due south with strike direction of east west. The width of the limestone varies from 170m to 220m in the western part and 20m to 50m in the eastern part. There is no toxic minerals are generated in these area. The waste rocks removed are dumped in the waste dump and dump will be stabilized and fully afforested at the end of the life of the mine. 2.4 Mining Mechanized mining method with conventional drilling and blasting is being adopted in the mine. The primary holes are drilled by 115mm dia DTH drills are loaded with 25 to 30% of cap sensitive primary explosives of nitrate mixture (slurry explosive) or nitro compounds explosives in combination with 75 to 70% non-cap sensitive nitrate mixture and or ANFO explosives and detonated by shot delay with electric detonator is pre designed hook up to attain a powder factor of 5.5 to 6.5 tonne/kg with spacing and burden 3m*3m. About 5 to 10% of primary blast material in limestone requires secondary breaking which is being done by hydraulic rock breaker. The blasting is done by controlled blasting techniques. The blast material is loaded in 35 tones capacity of dumper by deploying L&TPC300 and L&T komatsu 210 pc hydraulic excavators. Whenever secondary breaking is necessary hydraulic excavator attached with rock breaker is engaged. Since the mine located at a distance of 7km from the factory the limestone is dispatched using the Taurus trucks to the factory. The overburden dump is being dumped using the dumpers along with the excavator combination. The dump is being carried out in a systematic manner other supporting equipment’s such as loader, etc. are used to maintain the dump and haul roads. The height of the benches are maintained at 9m and the width is more than its height, Permission to work with the system of deep hole blasting and heavy machineries are obtained from DGMS .

Krishna mines



The process of obtaining MOEF clearance for the mine lease is under process for the G.O.NO:8480 and for the lease the SEIAA has given the environment clearance for G.O.NO:115. 2.5 Equipment & Machinery under use.

Table-3 Serial no

Name of the machinery Capacity No (units) In use

1. Dipper shovel diesel 3.2m3 3 3 2. Front end loader 1.7 m3 2 2 3. Back hoe hydraulic

excavator diesel 0.9 m3 1 1 1.1 m3 2 2

4. Haulers /dumpers Beml BH35-2 35 tones

6 6

Terex R25 – 25 tones

2 2

5. Drills / blast hole drill and wagon drills

115mm dia 3 3

6. Air compressors diesel 13.5 m3/min 150psi

3 3

2.6 Post-Mining Reclamation and Land Use Pattern Once the entire limestone of this mine is excavated up to the ultimate pit limit the mining pits will be used as water reservoir. The rain water will be stored in the pits which will recharge the ground water for irrigating the nearby water starved dry lands. The Post Mining Land Use pattern of the area is shown below in Table.4 S.No Land Use Area (Ha.) % of total

1 Area left out as pit for storage of rain water

24.210

77.86

2 Area Refilled 2.425 7.79 3 Waste Dumps and Bunds 2.214 7.12 4 Infrastructure Facilities 0.33 1.06 5 Roads 0.17 0.54 6 Green belt & Afforestation area 1.429 4.59 7 Others (Area remain untouched) 0.314 1.00 Total 31.092

100

2.7 Study Area Since there were many mine leases which are falling within a distance of 10 km from the Gandgaikondan Deer Sanctuary a comprehensive study was carried out including all the existing mine leases of The India Cements Ltd to understand the ecology of the area.

Krishna mines



Figure 1 : LOCATION MAP

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Fig.-2: MAP SHOWING MINE LEASE FROM GANGAIKONDAN DEER SANCTUARY

Krishna mines



Fig.-3: STUDY AREA MAP

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FIG.-4: GOOGLE MAP SHOWING GANGAIKONDAN DEER SANCTUARY

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FIG 5 SURFACE PLAN OF THE MINE LEASE AREA

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2.8 Climate The district enjoys a Sub tropical climate. 2.9 Temperature The district enjoys a Sub tropical climate. The period from May to June is generally hot and dry. The weather is pleasant during the period from December to January. The mean minimum temperature is 22.9°C and mean maximum daily temperature is 33.5°C respectively. 2.10 Rainfall The district receives rain under the influence of both southwest and northeast monsoons. The main rainfall period is October to middle of January. The average rainfall of the district is 697 mm. 2.11 Relative Humidity The relative humidity in general, is between 55 and 65% in the interior parts of the district, except during the northeast monsoon season, when it is over 65 %. 2.12 Winds The prevailing wind is generally light to moderate in strength. Between May and September winds are mainly north westerly or western. From October to February winds are mainly north easterly or northern. 2.13 Geology The district is bordered by Western Ghats (Ridge and valley complex) in the West. A major part of the district constitutes a plain terrain with a gentle slope toward East and Southeast, except for the hilly terrain in the west The general elevation of the area varies from less than 10 to 1408m msl (Tulukkaparai hill range) The prominent geomorphic units are Structural Hill, Bazada Zone, Valley Fill, Flood Plain, Pediment, Shallow buried pediment, Deep buried pediment and Coastal Plain. 2.14 Soil Soils in the area have been classified into i ) Deep Red soil ii). Red Sandy Soil. iii) Block Cotton Soil. iv) Saline Coastal Alluvium, and v) River Alluvium. Major parts of the area are covered by Deep Red soil and it is suitable for cultivating coconut and palmyrah trees. Red sandy soil also in reddish yellow in colour and are suitable for cultivating groundnut, millets and pulses etc., The Block Cotton Soil is found in Tirunelveli, Palayamkottai and Sankarankoil blocks, and it is suitable for cultivating Paddy, Ragi, and Cholam etc., The River alluvial soils occur along the river courses of Tamirabarani and Chittar river covering in the blocks Tirunelveli and Palayamkottai and it is suitable for cultivating Groundnut, Chillies and Cumbu.

Krishna mines



2.15 Infrastructure Transport The proposed project site is well connected by road and rail. National Highway (NH-44 - Kanyakumari –Bengalaru) is located at the distance of about 7.6 km from the project site. The Talaiyuthu railway station is located at the distance of 9.2 km from the project site. Tuticorin is the nearest Airport and seaport which is located at a distance of 50km & 63 Km respectively from the project site. Institutions Schools, Colleges, Polytechnic colleges are available in the study area. Industries The SIPCOT Industrial Complex at Gangaikondan is the nearest industrial area. Various industries such as limestone mines, stone crushers, spinning mills, flour mill at Gangaikondan, Wolckem lime industry, asbestos plant and Coca cola bottling unit are located in the study area.

Krishna mines



CHAPTER-3.0: ABOUT GANGAIKONDAN DEER SANCTUARY Forests – Wildlife – Formation of Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary- Notification under Section 26 A (1) (b) of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 On 02.05.2013, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has made announcement under Rule 110 on the floor of Tamil Nadu Legislative Assemble. Based on the announcement, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden send proposal for declaration of Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary under section 26-A (1) (b) of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The Government accepted the proposal of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden for the declaration of “Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary” under Section 26 –A (1) (b) of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The Gangaikondan Reserve Forest was declared under Section 16 of the Tamil Nadu Forest Act (V of 1982) and that the area comprised within the said reserved forest is an important habitat for Spotted Deer and that the southern most habitat for Spotted Deer outside Western Ghats and also a habitat for Peafowls, Mongoose, Reptiles, and Avifauna etc. In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (b) of sub-section (1) of section 26 – A of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (Central Act 53 of 1972) the Governor of Tamil Nadu having considered the area, sensitivity and the boundaries of which are specified has declared that the said area shall be a Sanctuary on and from 01.10.2013 for purpose f protecting, propagating and developing the wildlife and its environment. The topography of the forest area is mainly rocky and Hilly terrain Fig.-5 to 10. As per the revised classification of forest types by Champion and Seth (1968), the existing forest is coming under Forest Types - 6A Southern tropical thorn forest and Sub types – 6A/C – Southern thorn forest. 3.1 Details of the Sanctuary

1 District : Tirunelveli

2 Taluk : Tirunelveli

3 Village/s : Gangaikondan & Alankaraperi

4 Block : Gangaikondan

5 Total Area : 288.40 hectares

3.2 Boundary of Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary North: The boundary of Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary starts from boundary pillar no 9 which runs southeast to a distance of 225m towards pillar no 10 and thence runs southeast to a length of 360m over the southern boundary of survey no 1472 of Gangaikondan village and it reaches pillar no 11 and thence runs towards south and touches pillar no 12 to a distance of 180m, thence runs towards east to a distance of 960m touching pillar 13 and 14, thence runs towards south to a distance of 120m and touches pillar 15, thence runs southeast and touches pillar no 16 trijunction of Alankaraperi and Gangaikondan villages to a distance of 270m.

Krishna mines



East: The boundary of Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary in the East starts from trijunction of Alankaraperi and Gangaikondan villages in pillar no 16 and runs southwest to a distance of 555m and then runs southwest to a distance of 750m and touches the boundary pillar no 18, and thence it runs towards west to a distance of 225, it reaches the tri-junction in northern boundary of survey no 1802 of Gangaikondan and Alankaraperi villages in pillar no 19. South: The boundary of Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary in the South starts from the tri-junction in northern boundary of survey no 1802 of Gangaikondan and Alankaraperi villages in pillar no 19 and thence runs north touching the eastern boundary of survey no 1803 to a distance of 180m it reaches the pillar no 20 and runs north touching the eastern boundary of survey no 1810 to a distance of 420m and meets with pillar no 21 and thence runs southwest to a distance of 75m along the northern boundary of Pappankulam tank and thence runs northwest to a distance o f375m along the northern boundary of survey no 1820 of Gangaikondan village and reaches pillar no 26 and thence runs west to a distance of 375m touching pillar no 27 and thence runs northwest to a distance of 300m along the northern boundary of survey no 1654 of Gangaikondan village and touches pillar no 28 and thence runs northwest along with northern boundary of survey no 1680 to a distance of 120m and touches pillar no 29 and thence runs northwest to a distance of 90m and it meets with pillar no 30.

West: The boundary of Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary in the west starts from pillar no 30 and runs northeast to a distance of 375m touching pillar no 31 and meets with pillar no 32 and thence runs northeast to a distance of 1215m and meets with pillar no 33 and ends with pillar no 9 to a distance of 165m which is the starting point.

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FIGURE 6: DIGITISED MAP OF GANGAIKONDAN SPOTTED DEER SANCTUARY AREA

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FIGURE 7: GOOGLE MAP SHOWING THE SANCTUARY AREA

FIGURE 7 A: DIGITAL ELEVATION MODEL OF SANCTUARY AREA

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The entire area is a dry and the predominant species observed in the area are Prosopis juliflora and Acacia species (leucocephala and nilotica). A detailed list of Flora and fauna within the Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary are provided in the following tables. Table-5: List of Plants Recorded in Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary

S.No Name Family

Herbs

1. Capparis zeylanica Capparaceae 2. Cissus quandrangulais Vitaceae 3. Hemidesmus indicus Periplocaceae 4. Tylophora indica Asclepiadaceae 5. Achyranthes aspera Amaranthaceae 6. Aerva javanica Amaranthaceae 7. Ageratum conyzoides Asteraceae 8. Aloe vera Liliaceae 9. Aristida setacea Poaceae 10. Argyreia nervosa Convolvulaceae 11. Barleria prionitis Acanthaceae 12. Boerhaavia diffusa Nyctaginaceae 13. Chloris barbata Poaceae 14. Cynodon dactylon Poaceae 15. Euphorbia resinifera Euphorbiaceae 16. Lepidagathis cristata Acanthaceae 17. Rostellularia prostrata Acanthaceae 18. Themeda triandra (kangaroo grass) Poaceae 19. Vernnonia cinerea Asteraceae

Shrubs

20. Canthium parviflorum Rubiaceae 21. Catunaregam spinoa Rubiaceae 22. Dodonea viscosa Sapindaceae 23. Jatropha gladulifera Euphorbiaceae 24. Phyllanthus reticulatus Euphorbiaceae

Trees

25. Acacia leucoceploea Mimosaceae 26. Acacia nilotica Mimosaceae 27. Borasus flabelifer Arecaceae 28. Carissa carandus Apocynaceae 29. Leucaena leucocephala Mimosaceae 30. Prosopis juliflora Mimosaceae

Table – 6: List of Faunal Species Recorded in Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary

S.No Common Name Scientific name WLPA, 1972

Mammals

1. Indian Grey Mongoose Herpestes edwardsii Schedule II

2. Indian Palm squirrel Funambuus palmarum Schedule IV

3. Rabbit Lepus nigricollis Schedule IV

4. Spotted Deer Axis axix Schedule III

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S.No Common Name Scientific name WLPA, 1972

Birds

5. Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus Schedule IV

6. Common Babbler Turdoides caudatus Schedule IV

7. Common Crow Corvus splendens Schedule V

8. Common Myna Acridotheres tristis Schedule IV

9. Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis Schedule IV

10. House Sparrow Passer domesticus Schedule IV

11. Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus Schedule-I

12. Indian Robin Saxicoloides fulicata Schedule IV

13. Purple Sunbird Cinnyris asiaticus Schedule-IV

14. Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer Schedule IV

15. Red-wattled Lapwing Vanellus indicus Schedule IV

16. Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis Schedule IV

Reptiles

17. Common skink Mabuya carinata -

18. Dhaman /Rat snake Ptyas mucosa Schedule II

19. Garden calotes Calotes versicolor -

Insects-Butterflies

20. Blue tiger Tirumala limniacae -

21. Common emigrant Catopsilia pomona -

22. Common grass yellow Eurema hecabe

23. Common tiger Danaus genutia

24. Common grass dart Taractrocera maevius -

25. Common jezebel Delias eucharis -

26. Common mormon Papilio polytes -

27. Common sailor Neptis hylas -

28. Dark grass blue Zizeera knysna -

29. Indian cabbage white Pieris canidae -

30. Lemon pansy Junonia lemonias -

Insect-Odonates (dragon flies)

31. Common Club tail - Ictinogomphus rapax -

32. Green Marsh Hawk Orthetrum sabina -

33. Ground Skimmer Diplacodes trivialis -

3.2.1 Flora : In total 30 plant species consists of 6 trees, 5 shrubs, 19 herbs, were recorded from Gangaikondan Deer Sancturay. The list of plants are provided in Table -4 provided in above pages. There is no endemic or endangered flora found in the study area.

Krishna mines



3.2.2 Fauna

In total 33 faunal species were recorded from the Gangaikondan Deer Sanctuary area that belong to 4 mammals, 12 birds, 3 reptiles and 11 butterflies. The detail list of fauna recorded from the study area is at Table -8 Among 33 faunal species recorded from the study area, Pavo cristatus (Cited) and comes under Schedule-I of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Table-7: List of Flora Recorded in Study Area (Considering 10 km around all the Mine areas and plant area are included in the following table) S.No Name Habit Family

1. Andrographis echioides (L.) Nees Herb Acanthaceae

2. Barleria prionitis L. Herb Acanthaceae

3. Justicia procumbens Herb Acanthaceae

4. Lepidagathis cristata Willd. Herb Acanthaceae

5. Agave americana L. Shrub Agavaceae

6. Achyranthes aspera L. Herb Amaranthaceae

7. Aerva lanata (L.) Juss.ex Schult. Herb Amaranthaceae

8. Alternanthera sessilis (L.) R.Br. Herb Amaranthaceae

9. Anacardium occidentale L. Tree Anacardiaceae

10. Mangifera indica L. Tree Anacardiaceae

11. Catharanthus roseus (L.) Don Herb Apocynaceae

12. Carissa carandas L. Shrub Apocynaceae

13. Borassus flabellifer L. Tree Arecaceae

14. Cocos nucifera L. Tree Arecaceae

15. Pergularia daemia (Forsk.) Chiov. Climber Asclepiadaceae

16. Tylophora indica (Burm.f.) Merr. Climber Asclepiadaceae

17. Calotropis gigantea (L.) R.Br. Shrub Asclepiadaceae

18. Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. Mant. Herb Asteraceae

19. Parthenium hysterophorus L. Herb Asteraceae

20. Tridax procumbens L. Herb Asteraceae

21. Vernnonia cinerea (L.) Less. Herb Asteraceae

22. Ageratum conyzoides L. Shrub Asteraceae

23. Ceiba pendandra (L.) Gaertn. Tree Bombaceae

24. Opuntia dillenii (Ker.-Gawl.) Haw. Shrub Cactaceae

25. Cassia occidentalis L. Herb Caesalpiniaceae

26. Cassia tora L. Herb Caesalpiniaceae

27. Cassia auriculata L. Shrub Caesalpiniaceae

28. Bauhinia variegata L. Tree Caesalpiniaceae

29. Cassia fistula L. Tree Caesalpiniaceae

30. Delonix regia (Boj.ex Hook.) Rafin Tree Caesalpiniaceae

31. Tamarindus indica L. Tree Caesalpiniaceae

32. Maytenus emarginata (Willd.) Ding. Shrub Celastraceae

33. Cleome viscosa L. Herb Cleomaceae

34. Terminalia catappa L. Tree Combetaceae

Krishna mines



35. Commelina longifolia Lam. Herb Commelinaceae

36. Coccinia grandis (L.) Voigt. Climber Cucurbitaceae

37. Cyperus rotundus L. Herb Cyperaceae

38. Euphorbia hirta L. Herb Euphorbiaceae

39. Phyllanthus reticulatus Poir. Shrub Euphorbiaceae

40. Phyllanthus emblica L. Tree Euphorbiaceae

41. Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. Climber Fabaceae

42. Alysicarpus monilifer (L.) DC. Herb Fabaceae

43. Indigofera cassioides Rottl. Ex DC. Herb Fabaceae

44. Indigofera linifolia (L.f.) Retz. Herb Fabaceae

45. Tephrosia purpurea (L.) Pers. Herb Fabaceae

46. Dalbergia sisso Roxb Tree Fabaceae

47. Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pier. Tree Fabaceae

48. Flacourtia indica (Burm.f.) Merr. Shrub Flacourtiaceae

49. Hyptis suaveolens Herb Lamiaceae

50. Leucas aspera (Willd.) Link. Herb Lamiaceae

51. Leucas indica (L.) R.Br. Herb Lamiaceae

52. Abutilon indicum (L.) Sweet Herb Malvaceae

53. Hibiscus rosa sinensis L. Shrub Malvaceae

54. Sida acuta Burm.f. Shrub Malvaceae

55. Azadirachta indica A. Juss. Tree Meliaceae

56. Mimosa pudica L. Herb Mimosaceae

57. Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth Tree Mimosaceae

58. Acacia leucoceploea (Roxb.) Willd. Tree Mimosaceae

59. Acacia nilotica (L.) Willd.ex Del. Tree Mimosaceae

60. Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. Tree Mimosaceae

61. Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth. Tree Mimosaceae

62. Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce Tree Mimosaceae

63. Samanea saman (Jacq.) Druce. Tree Mimosaceae

64. Ficus benghalensis L. Tree Moraceae

65. Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd. Shrub Nyctaginaceae

66. Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R. Br. Climber Periplocaceae

67. Apluda mutica L. Herb Poaceae

68. Aristida setacea Retz. Herb Poaceae

69. Chloris barbata Sw. Herb Poaceae

70. Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. Herb Poaceae

71. Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) Beauv. Herb Poaceae

72. Eragrostis tenella (L.) Beauv. Ex Roem. Herb Poaceae

73. Ziziphus numularia (Burm.f.) Wt. & Arn. Shrub Rhamnaceae

74. Hedyotis umbellata (L.) Lam. Herb Rubiaceae

75. Canthium parviflorum Lam. Shrub Rubiaceae

76. Aegle marmelos(L.) Corr. Tree Rutaceae

77. Dodonea viscosa (L.) Jacq. Shrub Sapindaceae

78. Datura metel L. Shrub Solanaceae

79. Corchorus aestuans L. Herb Tilliaceae

80. Typha angustata Bory & Chaub. Aquatic Herb Typhaceae

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81. Tribulus terrestris L. Herb Zygophyllaceae

82. Manilkara zapota Tree Sapotaceae Table-8: List of Fauna Recorded in Study Area (Considering 10 km around all the Mine areas and plant area are included in the following table

S.No Common Name Scientific name IWPA, Schedule

Mammals

1. Indian Palm squirrel Funambuus palmarum palmarum IV

2. Indian Field Mouse Gus booduga V

3. Indian Grey Mongoose Herpestes edwardsii II

4. Common Indian Hare Lepus ruficaudatus IV

5. Bonnet macaque Macaca radiata II

6. Wild Boar Sus scrofa cristatus III

7. Indian fox Vulpes bengalensis II

8. Pteropus giganteus Fruit Bat IV

Birds

9. Pavo cristatus Peacock I

10. Otus lettia collared scops owl IV

11. Common Myna Acridotheres tristis IV

12. Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis IV

13. Common Swift Apus apus IV

14. Indian Pond Heron Ardeola grayii IV

15. Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis IV

16. Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis IV

17. Common Crow Corvus splendens V

18. Common Quail Coturnix coturnix IV

19. Asian Palm Swift Cypsiurus balasiensis IV

20. Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus IV

21. Little Egret Egretta garzetta IV

22. Asian koel Eudynamys scolopaceus IV

23. Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis IV

24. Black Kite Milvus migrans IV

25. Purple-rumped Sunbird Nectarinia zeylonica IV

26. House Sparrow Passer domesticus IV

27. Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger IV

28. Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri IV

29. Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer IV

30. Indian Robin Saxicoloides fulicata IV

31. Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis IV

32. Common Babbler Turdoides caudatus IV

Reptiles

33. Common Indian krait Bungarus caeruleus II

34. Garden Lizard Calotes versicolar IV

35. House Lizard Hemidactylus domesticus IV

36. Common skink Mabuya carinata IV

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37. Spectacled cobra Naja naja II

38. Dhaman Ptyas mucosus IV

Amphibians

39. Common Indian toad Bufo melanostictus IV

40. Frog Rana tigrina IV

Butterflies

41. Mottled emigrant Catopsilia pyranthe IV

42. Common jezebel Delias eucharis IV

43. Yellow pansy Junonia hierta IV

44. Lemon pansy Junonia lemonias IV

45. Common sailor Neptis hylas IV

46. Indian cabbage white Pieris canidae IV

47. Common grass dart Taractrocera maevius IV

48. Dark grass blue Zizeera knysna IV

Krishna mines



CHAPTER-4.0: LAND USE LAND COVER OF THE STUDY AREA & 3D MODELING 4.1 SCOPE: The scope of the study involves preparation of the report on land use land cover details of the core zone and buffer zone (10km radius from the Mine Lease) using latest possible satellite imageries along with 3D imaging of the Area. The location of the Core Zone and 10Km Buffer Zone area falls under Survey of India Toposheet Scale 1:50000 No, 58H09. The 10km buffer Zone of the Mine lease area is covered in is falling in 58H09, 58H10, 58H13 and 58H14Toposheet and the buffer zone is covered Tirunelveli and Palayamkottai Mandals in Tirunelveli District.

Figure 8: Location Map for Preparation of Land Use Land Cover Map

4.2 Tools and Resources In order to meet the project requirements, the following satellite data for the study area through the National Remote Sensing Centre, Hyderabad was acquired.

Krishna mines



Multispectral Data: Satellite: IRS R2 Sensor: Liss III FMX Path: 0110 Row: 068 Spatial Resolution: 23.5 m Date of pass: 14 May 2014 The IRS R2 Liss -III FMX data of the core and buffer zones are shown in the following Figure 9

Krishna mines



4.3 LAND USE LAND COVER CLASSIFICATION Various Land Use Classes Considered: The study area can be broadly identified into forest areas, built-up areas, agriculture areas and other classes. The definitions of various land use classes are given below. Forest Blank and Forest Plantation are additional classes shown in the classification compared to the classes followed by Forest Survey of India (FSI). Forest Cover: All the areas declared as reserve forest areas are shown in this class. The forests can be classified based on density into following classes: Very Dense Forest: Forests with tree canopy coverage above 70%. This class is not observed in the current study area. Moderate Dense Forest: Forests with tree canopy coverage between 40%-70%. This class is not identified in the study area. Open Forest: Forests with tree canopy coverage between 10%-40%. This land cover class is not observed in the current study area. Forest Blanks: Forests with tree canopy coverage less than 0%. Forest encroachments and illegal agriculture also will be shown in this class. However, these areas are covered with other land cover class in the study area. Forest Plantations: The plantations raised within the reserve forest boundaries are shown in these classes. The study area does not have any land covered under this land cover class. Agriculture Area: Single Crop Land: The areas where farmers practice cultivation for single season (Kharif) in a year. This land use class does not exist in the current study area. Double Crop Land: The areas where farmers practice cultivation for two seasons (Kharif & Rabi) in a year. This land use class is not observed in the current study area. Shifting Cultivation: The agriculture system in which plots of forest land are cultivated temporally then abounded and allowed to revert to their natural vegetation on while the cultivator moves on to other plot. This land use class does not exist in the current study area. Fallow Land: The areas not cultivated in current year/ years. The study area does not have this land use class. Plantations: The private areas with plantation like Horticulture and other plantations. This land use class is not observed in the current study area. Waste Lands: Areas with/ without Scrub: Generally waste lands-non agricultural areas and non-forest areas covered with or without scrubs. Barren lands: Land without any usage and without scrubs and sometimes they are rocky exposed areas. Settlement: The habitations are villages/ colonies will be shown in this class. This land use class is not observed in the current study area. Mining Areas: The area, where the mining activity is being carried out has been done are shown in this class. This land use class is not observed in the current study area. Industrial Area: The industrial Establishments will be shown in this class. The study area does not have this land use class.

Krishna mines



Water Bodies: The oceans, rivers, streams, lakes, tanks, reservoirs, canals etc will be identified in this class. The study area does not have this land cover class.

TABLE:9: LAND USE LAND COVER DETAILS 10KM BUFFER ZONE AREA.

LULC Class Name Area Ha %

Open Forest 433.75 1.22

Degraded Forest 252.08 0.71

Double Crop 9523.51 26.84

Single Crop 4824.15 13.60

Fallow Land 282.22 0.80

Agri Plantation 1049.17 2.96

Land With /Without Scrub 8033.14 22.64

Barren Land 5851.74 16.50

Mine Pit 348.72 0.98

Mine Dump 142.64 0.40

Industrial Establisment 179.98 0.51

Settlement 2761.81 7.79

Canal 93.62 0.26

River/Water Body 1699.80 4.79

TOTAL 35476.33 100.00

Figure 10: Pie chart showing the Land use Land Cover distribution in 10Km Buffer Zone Area.

Krishna mines



FIGURE 11: LAND USE LAND COVER MAP OF MINE LEASE AREA (10 KM RADIUS)

Krishna mines



TABLE10: LAND USE PATTERN OF MINE LEASE AREA

LULC Class Name Area Ha %

Fallow Land 1.270 4.084

Plantation 1.492 4.798

Barren Land 1.270 4.084

Land with Scrub 0.792 2.547

Land without Scrub 0.577 1.855

Mine 20.71 66.608

Mine Dump 3.01 9.68

Road 0.17 0.546

Water Body 1.80 5.789

Total 31.092 100.000

Land use Pattern

Fallow Land 4.08%

Plantation 4.79%

Barren Land 4.08%

Land with Scrub 2.54%

Land without Scrub 1.85%

Mine 66.6%

Mine Dump 9.68%

Road 0.54%

Water Body 5.78%

Krishna mines



CHAPTER-5.0: IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 5.1 Impacts Assessment The Limestone Mine (GO 8480) of Krishna mines at Ramayanpatti is located about 9.5 km away from the Spotted Deer Sanctuary. Direct Impacts are usually readily identifiable. Cumulative impacts occur due to various development projects in the surrounding areas. Impacts can be largely minimized and mitigated by careful planning. The likely impacts of present Limestone Mine on Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary and suggested mitigation measures for the identified impacts are recommended in this chapter. 5.2 Noise Level Predictions Anticipated noise levels at mine boundary resulting from operation of the various machinery have been computed using point source model. Computation of cumulative noise levels at the mine boundary is based on the assumption that there are no attenuation paths between the source and the boundary. Basic phenomenon of the model is the geometric attenuation of sound. Noise at a point generates spherical waves, which are propagated outwards from the source through the air at a speed of 1,100 ft/sec, with the first wave making an ever-increasing sphere with time. As the wave spreads the intensity of noise diminishes as the fixed amount of energy is spread over an increasing surface area of the sphere. The assumption of the model is based on point source relationship i.e., for every doubling of the distance the noise levels are decreased by 6 dB(A). Point source propagation is defined by the following equation: Lp2 = Lp1 – 20 log R2/R1 Where, Lp1 and Lp2 are sound pressure levels at points located at distances R1 and R2 respectively from the source. The noise levels were predicted considering operation of high noise generating machinery within the lease area. The predictions are carried are without considering any attenuation in noise levels due to noise barriers such as plantation , etc. In order to assess the impacts on the Sanctuary area due to the existing lease the Noise Modeling has been carried out using formula Table: 11 Details of Noise Generating Machinery Considered for Acoustic Modeling

S. No Source Description Source Noise

dB(A)

R2 in m SANCTUARY

AREA

Predicted Noise Level

dB(A) 1 Excavation Operation 85 8300 6.6

The predicted Noise Levels due to mining operations on the sanctuary will be less than 6.6 dB(A) without any attenuation factor.

Krishna mines



From the above calculation it is evident that the impact of the present mining project on Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary located at a distance of 9.5km from the mine boundary is negligible. However, mitigation measures have been suggested in order to reduce the associated impacts due to running of the mines at the source itself. Some of the mitigation measures address the impact directly, while other measures such as awareness and training programme are also aimed to reduce impacts. The major impacts on biodiversity as well as environment are as discussed in Table-.12 Table 12: Mitigation Measures adopted by M/s Krishna mines. Environmental management plan

Proposal as per approved mining plan

Position at the end of the last scheme period

Proposal for the next five years scheme period

Top soil storage, preservation and utilization

Since the mine is one of the oldest mine and already opened and limestone is exposed the top soil generation will be minimal.

The top soil generated will be used for stabilizing the dumps and for planting trees after reclamation at the end of the life of the mine.

The top soil generated in these areas will be stored in north eastern dump and some quantity will be used for plantation at dumps.

Land reclamation and rehabilitation

Since the limestone beds are steeply dipping and likely to continue more than 120m deep concurrent reclamation is not feasible

At the end of the mining operations the worked out pits can be partly filled up to RL -10and used as a storage place for water the villagers could use this water for agricultural and drinking water purposes besides the pumped out water is being used for their own farm land the water body also helps in improving the water table in the open wells in the adjoining areas

However part of the pit along the section FF between coordinates N165 toN300/E540 to 640is used for temporary filling of waste inside the pit during the year 2016-17 and 2017-18 of the plan period as there is not sufficient space within the lease for dumping the waste. This will be handled during the next scheme period for carrying out mining operation in that region.

Waste dump management

The overburden generated during the plan period will be dumped in the area allotted for dumping.

The dump will have a height of 30m and shall be sloped in 1 in 2 below the foot of the slopes a retaining wall of 1.2mx1.2m shall be constructed using the waste boulders with a view to contain the loose soil dump the dump shall be suitably stabilized using hamata grass species and legumes the slopes

The overburden generated during the plan period shall be stored at the existing dumps at the northern and southern side of the mine pit.

Krishna mines



shall have contour terraces of 1m interval where agaves species shall be planted to consolidate the dump on the dump terraces plantations activity will be carried out.

Afforestation program With precautions for survival and production of plantation.

It has been proposed to plant about 4750 no of saplings during the plan period. These saplings will also be planted along the north western periphery. The south western periphery, eastern periphery and on the dump yard on the north western periphery of the lease area. The saplings recommended are jatropa, juliflora, neem, pungamia, teak and also fruit bearing trees etc. Expenditure of rupees 0.65 Lakhs per hectare is proposed towards afforestation.

All along the periphery of the mining lease and at the top of dumps plantation will be made.

The details of the afforestation proposed is given in the table below

Sl.no Year Area in Ha

1. 2013 -14

0.21

2. 2014-15

0.20

3. 2015-16

0.30

4. 2016-17

0.90

5. 2017-18

0.29

Quality of air In any mechanized mining operations using DTH drill and HEMM like excavators tippers and dumpers, some quantity of dust is bound to be generated depending on the

To establish the ambient air quality, air quality was studied during different periods the ambient air quality sampling was carried out with the help of high volume air samplers and repairable dust samplers the air monitoring stations have been fixed covering six locations , Mines office, nanjankulam, venkalapottal, sethurayanputhur,police colony and veppankulam

Detailed air quality monitoring will be made in six locations around the mine site The locations are Mines Office, Nanjankulam, Venkalapottal, sethurayanputhur, police colony, and veppankulam.PM10 and PM2.5 will be monitored in all seasons of the

Krishna mines



topography, the nature of the material to be handled and climatology parameters like wind speed, wind direction and stability classification of the area viz location of the buffer zone villages. The deleterious parameters of the air quality to be considered for opencast mine shall be SO2, and NOX from the base line data generated so for it is found that the ambient air quality is within the permissible limits of CPCB, however detailed estimation will be made in the EIA/EMP proposed to be submitted after collecting fresh three season data.

PM10, values were in the range of 38.1-92.4µg/m3, PM2.5 values were in the range of 18.5-49.9µg/m3

SO2, values were in the range of 4.2-7.4µg/m3

NOX, values were in the range of 8to 23. 7µg/m3

While comparing with the NAAQ Norms, all monitored PM10, PM2.5, SO2,NOX and values were found to be well within the permissible limit values. The CO values in all the locations found to be below detectable limit.

ensuring five year scheme period.

Quality of water including surface and ground water

The existing water course shall not be disturbed

7 water samples were analysed for water quality. The location is given below.

ID Location W1 Mines Pit water ( core

zone) W2 Sethurayanputhur bore

well water W3 Madhavakurichi well

water W4 Nanjankulam well

water W5 Vengalapottal bore well

water

Mitigate measures Maintain the gradient of one degree or two for drainage of water in the bench floor and construction of water drains using in the local material to prevent waste of and uncontrolled water Garland drains will be dug around the quarry to prevent the rain water draining in to the quarry

Krishna mines



W6 Krishna mines bore well ( core zone)

W7 Veppankulam bore well The PH value of the mine pit water was 8.43 TDS and chloride values were found to be 280 mg/l And 12.3mg/l respectively BOD and COD values were found to be below their detectable limits respectively. The mine pit water quality was found to be within the prescribed CPCB/TNPCB norms for discharge to on land for irrigation. The ground water in the bore wells and wells, mostly influenced by nearby ponds or lakes were found to be good. The PH values were ranging in between 7.52 to 7.82 TDS values were in the range of 120 – 1860mg/l. the chloride values were ranging from 9.5mg/l to 429.4mg/l. the iron content was found to be in the range of 0.01-0.2mg/l the water quality of good waters were found to be within the prescribed IS :10500 norms for drinking in the absence of an alternative source

The dumps will be provided in the inner slope on the top surface and through a system of drains will be allowed to descend into the surrounding drains to so as to minimize the erosion effects arising out of uncontrolled descends of water . Mine sump water will be pumped by suitable pumps mounted at the top of the mine sump by 4’’ delivery GI pipes are used to deliver the water upto the plantation point for afforestation work hence there will not be any water let outside the premises and the entire pumped water will be used for plantation Besides the regular water sampling will be carried out and the reports will be submitted to IBM

Noise level The noise levels will be monitored and necessary precautions will be taken for controlling

Steps are being continued to avoid the excessive noise during blasting. The noise samples are monitored in seven locations

ID Location N1 Mines office ( core

zone) N2 Haul roads in mines (

core zone) N3 Nanjankulam village N4 Venkalapottal village N5 Sethurayanputhur

village N6 Police colony N7 Veppankulam village

Day equivalent noise (leq-d)

Mitigation measures The noise levels will be controlled by maintenance of HEMM properly The development of extensive green belt along the mine roads and the lease boundary The optimization of the blasting parameters and practicing advanced blasting techniques The medical checkup will be carried out for workers besides providing ear muffs for workers working in the

Krishna mines



levels were ranging from 41.2 to 51.9DB(A) and night equivalent noise noise (leq-n) levels were ranging from 37.8 to 42.8DB(A). While comparing with the MOEF norms of 55DB(A) for day time and 45DB(A) for night time, the monitored ambient noise levels were well within the limit values for residential areas

noise environment Besides regular noise monitoring will be carried out quarterly and the report will be submitted to IBM

Vibration Vibrations due to blasting shall be kept under control using by optimizing the charge per delay

Steps are taken as planned to control vibration using delay detonators, optimizing charge etc

Mitigation measures Steps will be taken to control vibration using delay detonators Optimizing charge and using advance blasting techniques like sequential blaster etc. Besides vibration studies are undertaken and recommendation given are strictly followed to reduce the effects of vibrations due to blasting

Treatment of mine water/affluent and toxic and substance before discharge

No toxic substance are present A sump is created at lowermost level The water shall be pumped out whenever mining take place below water table

A sump is created at lowermost level Water shall be pumped out whenever mining takes place below water table The mining discharge water is being analyzed regularly

A sump is created at lowermost level The water will be allowed to settle in the sump before the same is pumped and used to various activities likes dust suppression, green belt.etc. Besides mining discharge water is being analyzed regularly

Recirculation of treated water

NA NA NA

Krishna mines



5.3 Impacts due to Blasting, Ground Vibrations and Fly Rocks Operation of heavy equipments, drilling and blasting in the mine site may contribute to minor increase in the noise level of the area. The noise due to blasting operation lasts for a very short period. Primary blasting is carried out with adequate preventive measures to control the noise to the permissible limits. Certain amount of ground vibration is anticipated due to blasting and blast monitoring indicates that the amount of ground vibration is well within the permissible ground vibration fixed by Directorate of Mine Safety. Another impact due to blasting activities is fly rocks. These may fall on the vicinity of fields nearby the mining lease area. Considering the nearest habitation at a distance of 500 m from the lease boundary and distance of Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary the safe Explosive Quantity /blast in kg to obtain Peak Particle Velocity in mm/s as per Director General of Mines Safety (DGMS) Circular 7 of 1997 are calculated using the empirical equation. The empirical equation for assessment of peak particle velocity (PPV) is: V= 417.8{D/(Q0.5)}-1.265 Where V= Peak particle velocity in mm/s D= Distance between location of blast and gauge point in m Q=Quantity of explosive per blasting in kg

Table 13: Estimated Peak Particle Velocity for different Explosive Charges

GO

Nearest Habitation Distance

(m)

Safe quantity of explosive,

kg

PPV

(mm/s)

Sanctuary Distance (m)

Safe Quantity Of Explosive In Kg

PPV (mm/s)

8480 500 200 4.6 9500 19000 1.95

115 500 200 4.6 9500 19000 1.95

Note: the empirical formula does not take into account the delay factor in blasting due to the use of Delay Detonators. Permissible standards of ground vibration due to blasting as per guidelines of Director General of Mines Safety (DGMS), Dhanbad are given in Table.14

Table 14: Permissible Standards for Ground Vibrations

(Peak Particle Velocity in mm/s) Type of Structure Dominant Excitation

Frequency, Hz <8Hz 8 – 25 Hz > 25 Hz

A. Buildings / Structures not belong to the owner Domestic houses / structures (Kuchha, Brick & cement) 5 10 15 Industrial Buildings (RRC & Framed structures) 10 20 25 Objectives of historical importance & sensitive structures 2 5 10 B. Buildings belonging to owner with limited span of life Domestic houses/structures (Kuchha, brick & cement) 10 15 25 Industrial buildings (RRC, Framed structures) 15 25 50

Source: Director General of Mines Safety (DGMS) Circular 7 of 1997

Krishna mines



From the above two tables, it can be seen that the maximum charge per blast which is safe considering nearest village habitation at a distance of 500m will not have any impact on Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary. Apart from this, additional control measures like wet drilling; avoiding blasting during high wind speed and development of green belt within the safety barrier of the mine will ensure that there is no impact of blasting activity in the mine area over the Sanctuary. Note: the empirical formula does not take into account the delay factor in blasting due to the use of Delay Detonators.

Krishna mines



5.4 NATURAL THREATS IDENTIFIED FOR GANGAIKONDAN SPOTTED DEER SANCTUARY 5.4.1 Loss of Habitat Loss of habitat for the faunal species, since most of the species is sensitive to human disturbance. 5.4.2 Loss of Habitat Continuity (Fragmentation) There is a loss of habitat continuity due to discontinuity of the Sanctuary. National Highway on the western side, railway crossing on the eastern side, private lands on the north and south side cause problems for animal species such as loss of movement paths, obstruction in access to resources. 5.4.3 Water Scarcity The sanctuary area does not have any perennial water bodies. The area is also a rain shadow area. However due to the efforts of Forest Department few check dams and low lying areas are converted to store water during rainfall. This will act as source of water supply to the spotted deer. However, during lean season they get dry up in summer months leaving no water source for consumption and sustenance of animals. In order to have water and food many deer are observed to move out of the sanctuary on all sides. During this process since there is a National Highway on the Northern side the speeding vehicles the spotted deer are being hit and losing their life's. The same thing is happening on the other side also where the railway track is present. Another important threat is poaching of the animals. With proper fencing & guarding this can be controlled. 5.4.4 Removal of Forest Products Earlier most of the villagers were dependent on forest for their requirement of fuel wood, for house construction, agricultural implement, and fencing and to meet their need of non-timber forest produce. Now due to stringent control measures taken by the department the dependency has been controlled.

Krishna mines



CHAPTER-6.0: CONSERVATION PLAN FOR GANGAIKONDAN SPOTTED DEER SANCTUARY Biodiversity resource is used by multiple stakeholders. Hence its conservation and management cannot be carried out in isolation. Though there is no direct impact of Krishna Mines on Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary, the company has come forward to conserve and improve biodiversity and wildlife in this area by taking necessary steps along with guidance from forest department. This chapter attempts to suggest various short term and long term measures for management of natural and biological resources in the Spotted Deer Sanctuary Area. It is felt during the field investigation that the Sanctuary area is under tremendous pressure especially the surrounding fringe areas due to various developmental activities, Agriculture and habitat destruction. Four strategies required for the biodiversity management are in Situ strategy, ex Situ Strategy, reduction of anthropogenic pressure and rehabilitation etc. 6.1 Improvement of Plantation in the area Since the area is dry and covered with hard rocks survival of normal vegetation in this area is minimal. Succulent & Xerophtic plants which need less amount of water can survive in this area. However, growing only these plants will not serve the purpose of development of Forest or improvement of plantation in the forest area. Hence, it is recommended that initially grass species which can bind atmospheric nitrogen. Grasses like Aristida setacea, Chrysopogon aciculatus, Dichanthium annulatum, Dichanthium pseudoischaemum, Heteropogon contortus, Sehima nervosum which support shrub vegetation viz Carissa spinarum, Cassia auriculata, Catunaregam spinoa, Euphorbia resinifera, Gmelina asiatica, Gymnosporia spinosa, Randia dumetorum are proposed for plantation in the area. Construction of few artificial ponds to collect rain water coming downstream from the hilly area will help in developing the availability of water for consumption of animals and plants of the area. The Forest area has already in the process of development of water check dams. As of today 4 check dams are already in place and appears that forest department has taken a scientific approach in identifying the area for construction of water ponds and check dams for the animals. Which is evident from the location of the check dams. 6.2 Awareness Programme Regarding the importance of wildlife and conservation, a comprehensive awareness programme is to be run in the area including local educated scholars. The awareness program has to be carried out by direct contact, posters, organizing seminars, related to the wildlife conservation etc. This program has to be implemented with the help of State Forest Department, though; it would be comprised of educated scholars of communities, representative of Forest Department, representative of project authorities, Local representatives. 6.3 Joint Forest Management Since Joint forest/sanctuary management is not practiced in this area, the necessary guidance from the forest official’s w.r.t implementation of Forest management becomes most important and has to be strictly done with expert guidance from the Forest officials only.

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6.4 Sanctuary Protection Plan – Have to edit from here Considering the various measures proposed above, there would be requirement of various types of equipment and improvement in the infrastructures in forests. The proposed protection plan is related to the strengthening of forest department. Considering these facts various activities which are necessary for the forest protection plan are described in the following paragraphs: For the improvement of vigilance and measures check posts and watch towers will be needed. In order to strengthen the working capacity the officers of the State Forest/Wildlife Department must be provided with necessary equipment that would increase their capability and efficiency. Equipment such as wireless sets, binoculars and other minor equipments (altimeter, search lights, and health kits etc and any other requirements as desired by the forest officials has to be provided to have a better development in the area. Apart from above, the following facilities will enhance the speedy development of the forest area and protection. Improvement of vigilance by procurement of field vehicles and motorbikes Plantation / Afforestation in the forest patches 6.5: PROTECTION PLAN FOR COMBATING ACCIDENTS ON HIGHWAYS It was observed from the local and forest officials that spotted deer escaped from the sanctuary area are being killed due to speeding traffic on the highway. In order to combat this problem warning sign boards with fluorescent letters will be erected at every 1.0 KM on both sides of the road to caution the drivers. Apart from this the existing compound wall will be strengthened. 6.6 Species Specific Wildlife Conservation Plan for identified Schedule – I species The Limestone Mine is located at a distance of 9.5 km from Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary. Thus, have no impact on the wildlife or their habitats in the region, however, as a responsible organization; Krishna Mines owns the responsibility of participating in the conservation of nature and wildlife so as to ensure that the habitats of the region are protected and conserved. As in most parts of the country, these wildlife habitats may be facing threats of degradation, or fragmentation, or other anthropogenic or natural disturbances. 6.6.1 Broad Objectives:

To collaborate and strengthen the wildlife conservation activities of the state wildlife wing

To help protect the Schedule‐I species and their habitats To contribute for the development of wildlife habitats improvement and implement the

same through nearby villages To create awareness among the public, especially the students, youth, farmers, & women

and involve them in the wildlife conservation by motivating them To develop wildlife rescue teams in major villages by sponsoring their training

programs 6.6.2 Approach for Implementation of Plan

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Collaborative and Participatory approach will be followed for implementing the plan which will be guided by the forest department. The plan will be executed and implemented through the Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) of Krishna Mines. 6.7 Conservation Plan for Indian Pea Fowl (Pavo Cristatus) 6.7.1 Habitat & Ecology: It is commonly known as Nemali. It is found in dense, scrubby and open miscellaneous forests and also found moving socially in the villages. It usually lives in parties of one Peacock with four or five peahens and emerges into forests clearings and roads in the morning and evening to scratch the ground for food. It is excessively shy and alert. It eats grains, vegetables, shoots, insects, lizards, snake etc. It nests from January to October. The nest is a shallow scraped depression in the ground in a dense thicket lined with stick and leaves. Eggs are three to five, glossy pale, cream or white coffee coloured. 6.7.2 Threats: There are no major threats identified in this area. The birds are observed to be socially moving in these areas along the human population. The threats identified in this area includes: hunting of young birds by domestic dogs or by cats and accidental poisoning by feeding on pesticide treated seeds. 6.7.3 Interventions for Conservation Protection of Habitat: Protection of bird nesting areas like rock crevices and stony areas during breeding season. Awareness Creation: Education & creating awareness among the local villagers to enhance conservation ethic among locals. Monitoring: Village level teams with the youth shall be formed in villages and these teams will be monitoring conservation activities. These teams shall be trained and guided by the experts on how to conduct monitoring and record the information. Table15: Budget for Intervention of Schedule - I Species (Pavo Cristatus)

Activity Rs in Lakhs

1st Year 2nd Year 3rd Year 4th Year 5th Year Total Habitat Protection 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.50 Awareness Programs 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.50 Training & Monitoring

0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.25

Total 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 1.25

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6.8 Safeguard Measures

Strict restrictions to be imposed on the workers at sanctuary sites to ensure that they would not harvest any species/produce from the natural forests and cause any danger or harm to the animals and birds.

Collection of fuel wood has to be avoided to decrease forest degradation and destruction of animal habitats.

The interference of human population should be kept to a minimum in the sanctuary areas and it would be ensured that the contractors do not set up labour colonies in the vicinity of sanctuary and wilderness areas.

The project authorities will be bound by the rules and regulations of the Wildlife Protection Acts (1972), Biological Diversity Act (2002), Forest Act (1980), Environment Protection Act (1986), guidelines of State Biodiversity Conservation Strategy Action Plans (SBCSAP) for the preservation of habitats and protection of wild animals.

The project authority would provide financial assistance to The State Forest Department in strengthening the infrastructure facilities. An estimate has been made for cost of implementing the Wild Life Conservation Plan. This plan is made for a period of 5 years. The earmarked amount is subjective only and this is subjectable to change based on the need.

Table 16: Budget Allocation for Sanctuary Conservation Plan

Rupees in Lakhs

S. No Particulars 1st

year

2nd

year

3rd

year

4th

year

5th

year

1. Development of Water Resources 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20

2. Anti Poaching Camp 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10

3. Habitat Restoration 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30

4. Fodder Development 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10

5. Wildlife Awareness Program Poster,

Booklet, Seminars 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.05

6. Sub Total 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75

Total for 5 years Rs. 3.75 Lakhs

Note: The budget proposed is combined budget proposed for GO Nos 115, 8480.

6.9 Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) The monitoring and evaluation of Biodiversity Management Plan will be carried out by a Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC). The committee will follow the guidelines of National Biodiversity Authority, State Biodiversity Conservation Strategy Action Plans (SBCSAP) and State Forest Department to implement, monitor and evaluate the Biodiversity Management

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Plan of the proposed Project. The activities of BMC shall be under the guidance and control of the forest officials. 6.10 Members of BMC: 1. Conservator of Forest or his authorised personnel viz

DFO (s) Wildlife Division, : Chairman

2. General Manager (Operations), Krishna Mines : Member Secretary 3. RFO : Member 4. Two experts from University/Institutions : Member 5. Local representatives from at least 1 -3 villages : Member The Chairman of the committee will have the right to assign various activities to various members for proper functioning and result-oriented tasks. The amount earmarked may increase as per the need. 6.11 Biodiversity Monitoring Study It is recommended to conduct periodical biodiversity monitoring study to assess the effect of conservation activities within the core area and buffer area around the area of concern. After 5 years, the change in habitat condition may be reviewed in the field and based on wage rates prevailing at that time and other conditions budget will be reviewed 6.12 Conclusion Krishna mines is pro-active about issues related to biodiversity and wildlife conservation. The company is going a step beyond compliance and addressing conservation issues, which is evident from various other projects and programs in the past like green belt development, habitat restoration and biodiversity assessment. This report on Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary Conservation Plan proposes various prevention and mitigation measures as well as habitat improvement programs designed to safeguard biodiversity of the area. The plan mainly focuses on natural environment and natural resources, used by multiple stakeholders. This plan has covered important aspects such as habitat restoration, biodiversity conservation and wildlife conservation measures and eco-development to address social and conservation issues. It also provides rough financial outlay of its implementation cost. Implementation of this plan will have to carried out in due consultation with the State forest Department and the local people for achieving expected outcome. This report on Conservation Plan proposes various prevention & mitigation measures and habitat improvement programs designed to safeguard biodiversity around Gangaikondan Spotted Deer Sanctuary. This plan has covered important aspects such as habitat restoration, biodiversity conservation, forest conservation measures and eco-development to address social and conservation issues. It also provides financial outlay of its implementation costs. Implementation of this plan will have to carried out in due consultation with the State forest Department and the local people for achieving expected outcome.

conservation plan for spotted deer sanctuary project...

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