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142 IDA, Phase-II, Cherlapally, Hyderabad500 051

[email protected], www.vimta.com

(NABET - QCI Accredited, NABL Accredited & ISO 17025 Certified Laboratory,

Recognized by MoEF, New Delhi)

Prepared by :

May, 2015

Sponsor :

M/s. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd.Assam & Assam Arakan Basin, Dhansiri Bhavan,

Cinnamara, Jorhat - 785704

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT STUDIES FOR

THE PROPOSED EXPLORATORY DRILLING IN AA-ONN-2009/3 BLOCK

NELP-VIII AT TEOK VILLAGE, JORHAT DISTRICT, ASSAM

REPORT UPGRADED AFTER PUBLIC HEARING

M/s. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. Assam & Assam Arakan Basin, Dhansiri Bhavan,

Cinnamara, Jorhat - 785704

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT STUDIES FOR

THE PROPOSED EXPLORATORY DRILLING IN AA-ONN-2009/3 BLOCK NELP-VIII

AT TEOK VILLAGE, JORHAT DISTRICT, ASSAM

For and on behalf of VIMTA Labs Limited

Approved by : M. Janardhan

Signature :

Designation : Head & Vice President (Env)

Date : May 21, 2015

The report has been prepared inline with the prescribed TORs issued vide No.

F.No. J-11011/103/2012-IA II (I) dated 13th July, 2012 of Ministry of Environment

and Forests, New Delhi.

This report has been prepared by Vimta Labs Limited with all reasonable skill,

care and diligence within the terms of the contract with the client,

incorporating our General Terms and Conditions of Business and taking

account of the resources devoted to it by agreement with the client.

PREFACE

Environmental Impact Assessment report for Proposed Exploratory Drilling in AA-ONN-2009/3 Block NELP-VIII at Teok Village, Jorhat District, Assam

Table of Contents

VIMTA Labs Limited, Hyderabad TC-1

Table of Contents ________________________________________________________________ Chapter Title Page ________________________________________________________________

Table of Contents TC-1 List of Figures TC-4 List of Tables TC-5 1.0 Introduction 1.1 Purpose of the Report C1-1 1.2 Identification of Project & Project Proponent C1-1 1.3 Brief Description of Project C1-2 1.4 Scope of the Study C1-10 2.0 Project Description 2.1 Introduction C2-1 2.2 Type of Project C2-1 2.3 Need for Exploratory Drilling C2-1 2.4 Project Location and Layout Details C2-1 2.5 Size or Magnitude of Operation C2-3 2.6 Proposed Schedule for Project Approval and

Implementation C2-8 2.7 Technology and Drilling Process Description C2-8 2.8 Details of Project Utilities C2-11 2.9 Post Drilling Operations Abandonment and Restoration C2-16 2.10 Sources of Pollution C2-17 2.11 Qualifications, Skills and Training Practice C2-22 3.0 Baseline Environmental Status

3.1 Introduction C3-1 3.2 Hydrogeology and Geomorphology C3-1 3.3 Landuse Studies C3-4 3.4 Soil Characteristics C3-10 3.5 Meteorology C3-13 3.6 Ambient Air Quality C3-25 3.7 Water Quality C3-29 3.8 Noise Level Survey C3-34 3.9 Ecological Studies C3-37 3.10 Demographic and Socio-economics C3-57

4.0 Impact Assessment and Mitigation Measures 4.1 Impact Assessment C4-1 4.2 Anticipated Impacts from the Project C4-2 4.3 Environment Management Plan C4-24 4.4 Monitoring Environmental Performance C4-31 4.5 Emergency Response and Contingency Planning C4-32


Table of Contents


Table of Contents (Contd.) ________________________________________________________________ Chapter Title Page ________________________________________________________________

4.6 Waste Management Plan C4-38 4.7 Drilling Site Restoration Plan C4-39 5.0 Analysis of Alternatives 5.1 Alternative for Technology C5-1 5.2 Alternatives for Project site C5-1 6.0 Environmental Monitoring Programme 6.1 Introduction C6-1 6.2 Environmental Monitoring and Reporting Procedure C6-1 6.3 Reporting Schedule of the Monitoring Data C6-3 6.4 Infrastructure for Monitoring of Environmental Protection Measures C6-4 6.5 Environmental Costs C6-4 6.6 Audit and Review C6-4

7.0 Additional Studies 7.1 Public Consultation C7-1

7.2 Risk Assessment Introduction C7-7 7.3 Recommendations to Mitigate Risk/Hazards C7-17 7.4 Disaster Management Plan C7-18 7.5 Emergency Response Action C7-24 7.6 Emergency Response Procedures C7-25 7.7 End of Emergency C7-42 7.8 Communications C7-42

8.0 Project Benefits 8.1 Improvement in the Physical Infrastructure C8-1 8.2 Improvement in the Social Infrastructure C8-1 8.3 Employment Potential C8-2 9.0 Administrative Aspects

9.1 Operational Philosophy C9-1

9.2 Health Safety and Environment C9-2 9.3 Environmental Organization and Personnel C9-4


Table of Contents


Table of Contents (Contd.) ________________________________________________________________ Chapter Title Page ________________________________________________________________

10.0 Summary and Conclusion

10.1 Location Details of the Project C10-1 10.2 Importance of the Proposed Project C10-1 10.3 Details of Exploration Drilling Operations C10-1 10.4 Baseline Environmental Status C10-2 10.5 Impact Assessment C10-5 10.6 Environment Management Plan C10-7 10.7 Environmental Monitoring Program C10-8 10.8 Risk Assessment and Disaster Management Plan C10-9 10.9 Project Benefits C10-9 10.10 Administrative Aspects C10-9 10.11 Conclusions C10-10

11.0 Disclosure of Consultants

11.1 Introduction C11-1 11.2 Vimta Labs Limited C11-1

List of Annexures

Annexure-I Terms of Reference Letter and Compliance Annexure-II Applicable Environmental Standards Annexure-III Methodology for Sampling and Analysis Annexure-IV Land use Pattern Annexure-V Ambient Air Quality Levels Annexure-VI Demographic Details Annexure-VII Emission Calculations Annexure-VIII Public Hearing Proceedings Annexure-IX Pool Fire Calculations Annexure-X Secondary Data for Risk Analysis Annexure-XI Corporate Environment Policy


Table of Contents


List of Figures ________________________________________________________________ Figure Title Page ________________________________________________________________

1.1 Index Map C1-3 1.2 Topographic Map Aa-Onn-2009/3 Block in Jorhat District C1-4

1.3 Google Map Showing Well Locations in Aa-Onn-2009/3 Block C1-5 2.1 Typical Layout of Well Site C2-5 2.2 Drilling Rig C2-10 2.3 Drilling Fluid Circulation System at Typical Rig C2-15 2.4 Typical Section View Of Drilling Cut And Drill Mud

Collection Pit C2-20

3.2.1 Stratigraphy of North Assam Shelf, A & AA Basin C3-3 3.3.1 Satellite Imagery of the Study Area C3-8 3.3.2 Landuse Pattern Based on Satellite Data C3-9 3.4.1 Soil Sampling Locations C3-11 3.5.1 Wind Rose IMD Golaghat Pre Monsoon Season C3-18 3.5.2 Wind Rose IMD Golaghat Monsoon Season C3-19 3.5.3 Wind Rose IMD Golaghat Post Monsoon Season C3-20 3.5.4 Wind Rose IMD Golaghat Winter Season C3-21 3.5.5 Wind Rose IMD Golaghat- Annual C3-22 3.5.6 Site Specific Windrose Winter Season C3-24 3.6.1 Air Quality Sampling Locations C3-27 3.7.1 Water Sampling Locations C3-30 3.8.1 Noise Monitoring Locations C3-35 3.9.1 Ecological Sampling Locations C3-40 4.1 Short Term 24 hourly GLCs of SO2 C4-11 4.2 Short Term 24 hourly GLCs of NOx C4-12 4.3 Noise Level Contours C4-20

7.1(A) Notice for Public Hearing Dainik Janambhumi C7-2 7.1(B) Notice for Public Hearing Assam Tribune C7-3 7.2(A) Photographs Showing Public Hearing C7-4 7.2(B) Photographs Showing Public Hearing C7-5 7.3 Objectives of Risk Assessment C7-10 7.4 Methodology of MCA Analysis C7-11 7.5 Flow Chart for Evaluation of Consequences of Release of Flammable or Toxic Chemical C7-14 7.6 Emergency Classification C7-20 7.7 Contingency Plan for Onshore Blowout (Drilling Rig) C7-26 7.8 Typical Schematic of BOP Stack C7-29 9.1 Organizational Structure for Environmental Management C9-6


Table of Contents


List of Tables

Tables Title Page

1.1 Tentative Well Locations C1-2 1.2 Environmental Setting of Well Teok-C (1 Km Radius) C1-6 1.3 Environmental Setting of Well Teok-A (1 Km Radius) C1-7 1.4 Environmental Setting of Well Teok-G (1 Km Radius) C1-8 1.5 Environmental Attributes and Frequency of Monitoring C1-11 2.1 Tentative Well Locations C2-2 2.2 salient features of the proposed exploratory drilling in

aa-onn-2009/3 block of Assam C2-3 2.3 Typical Water Requirements per Well Site C2-4 2.4 Details of DG Sets C2-6 2.5 Constituents of Water Based Mud (WBM) C2-6 2.6 Special Additives and Their Functions In Water Based Mud C2-7 2.7 Composition And Parameters Of Water Based Drilling Mud C2-7 2.8 Hole Size And Casing Details C2-9 2.9 Hazardous Waste Quantities Per Well Site C2-21 2.10 Hazardous Waste from Drilling Operations C2-21 3.3.1 Landuse Pattern in the Study Area C3-4 3.3.2 Landuse /Land Cover Classification System C3-5 3.3.3 Landuse Breakup Based On Irs Resourcesat-2 Liss3 Dated 31st January 2013 C3-7 3.4.1 Details of Soil Sampling Locations C3-10 3.4.2 Soil Analysis Results C3-12 3.4.3 Standard Soil Classification C3-13 3.5.1 Sensitivity of Meteorology Monitoring Equipment C3-14 3.5.2 Climatological Data Station IMD, Golaghat C3-15 3.5.3 Summary of the Meteorological Data Generated at Site C3-23 3.6.1 Details of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring C3-26 3.6.2 Summary of Ambient Air Quality Results C3-28 3.7.1 Details of Water Sampling Location C3-29 3.7.2 Surface Water Quality C3-32 3.7.3 Ground Water Quality C3-33 3.8.1 Details of Noise Monitoring Location C3-36 3.8.2 Noise Levels in the Study Area C3-36 3.8.3 Ambient Noise Standards C3-37 3.9.1 Details of Terrestrial Ecological Sampling Locations C3-38 3.9.2 Plant Species Recorded in Block Area C3-41 3.9.3 Simpsons Diversity Index of Flora in the Study Area C3-44 3.9.4 List of medicinal Plant in the Study Area C3-45 3.9.5 List of Agricultural Crops C3-47 3.9.6 List of Wildlife in and around the Project Area C3-49 3.9.7 List of Rare/Endangered Mammals, Birds & Reptiles C3-52 3.9.8 Details of Aquatic Sampling Locations C3-53 3.9.9 Details of diversity Indices in Study Area C3-54 3.9.10 Standards of Shannon Weinner Diversity Index C3-54 3.9.11 List of Phytoplankton Species Identified from Study Area C3-55 3.9.12 List of Zooplankton Species Identified from Study Area C3-55 3.9.13 List Of Species Of Fishes And Their Habitat In Jorhat C3-56 3.9.14 List Of Species Of Fishes Found In The Study Area C3-56 3.10.1 Distribution of Population in the study area C3-58


Table of Contents


List of Tables (Contd)

Tables Title Page

3.10.2 Distribution of Population by Social Structure C3-58 3.10.3 Distribution of Literate and Literacy Rates C3-59 3.10.4 Occupational Structure C3-60 4.1 Summary of Impact Assessment: Soil and Landuse C4-5 4.2 Details of DG Sets C4-8 4.3 Emission Characteristics Model Inputs C4-9 4.4 Predicted 24 Hourly Short Term Incremental Concentration C4-9 4.5 Resultant Concentrations due to Incremental GLCs C4-10 4.6 Summary of Impact Assessment: Water Resources C4-16 4.7 Input Data for Noise Modeling C4-18 4.8 Predicted Noise Levels C4-19 4.9 Noise Exposure Levels & Its Effects C4-19 4.10 Summary of Impact Assessment: Flora and Fauna C4-22 4.11 Summary of Environmental Management Actions C4-33 6.1 Schedule of Environmental Monitoring C6-2 7.1 Action Plan for Issues Raised by Participants during

Public Hearing C7-6 7.2 List of Major Hazards C7-8 7.3 Occupational Hazards C7-9 7.4 Damage due to Peak Over Pressure C7-12 7.5 Damage due to Incident Radiation Intensities C7-12 7.6 Input Data for Consequence Analysis C7-13 7.7 Summary of Consequence Analysis for Jet Fire Scenario at Well C7-15 7.8 Probability of Ignition for Leaks of Flammable Fluids C7-16 7.9 The Adnoc Individual Risk Assessment Criteria C7-16 7.10 Recommendations to Mitigate Blow out Risk/Hazards C7-17


Executive Summary

VIMTA Labs Limited, Hyderabad ES-1

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) proposes to carryout

exploratory drilling in on-shore Block AA-ONN-2009/3. The block is located in the

Teok area of Jorhat, Assam and on the south-western part of main fields of North

Assam shelf viz. Rudrasagar, Changmigaon area. The nearest hydrocarbon

producing area is Amguri field, which is not with ONGC presently.

The NELP block AA-ONN-2009/3 was awarded to ONGC and OIL (50% PI) along

with the operation ship to ONGC by the Government of India (GOI) vide letter no.

0-19018/29/2009-ONG-I (Pt. II) dt.14.06.2010 and PSC was signed on

30.06.2010. The PEL deed of this block was signed on 02.12.2010. The block

covers area of 84 sq. kms and falling in the state of Assam.

As per the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification dated 14th

September, 2006, the proposed exploratory drilling project falls under Category

A of Activity Type 1(b). The EIA Report is prepared considering the TOR received

from MoEF vide letter. No. J-11011/103/2012-IA II (I) dated 13th July, 2012.

The present project proposal deals with exploratory drilling of 3 wells in AA-ONN-

2009/3 onshore block covering in Jorhat District, Assam. The exploratory drilling

well locations have been identified in Jorhat district based on the basis of 2-D and

3-D seismic study.

The present EIA report describes the proposed exploratory drilling wells identified

in block AA-ONN-2009/3 and its impacts and mitigation measures for the same.

1.1 Project Description

1.1.1 Location Details of the Project

The block under study falls in south western part of established oil fields like

Rudrasagar, Changmigaon area. The nearest proven oil field Amguri lies in the

south-eastern part of the block where 10 wells have been drilled with oil producer

from BCS (AMG-1, 2957-60 m AMG-5, 2890-93 & 2881-85 m) O-Tipam (AMG-8A,

1906-16-TS-2, 1922.5-24m, 1790-96m-TS1).

The block area lies between latitude 2604400 & 2604900 and longitude

9402030 & 9402600. Tentative well coordinates are given below:

Sr. No. Well Location Identification Latitude & Longitude

1 Teok-A 26o 47 48.278 N, 94o 23 39.97 E 2 Teok-B 26o 44 39.088 N, 94o 22 28.949 E 3 Teok-C 26o 49 02.359 N, 94o 21 08.040 E 4 Teok-D 26o 44 13.940 N, 94o 22 11.548 E

5 Teok-F 26o 45 28.293 N, 94o 22 35.217 E

6 Teok-G 26o 47 48.507 N, 94o 25 40.098 E


Executive Summary


The Topo map of the block area, depicting the salient features is shown in

Figure-1. The details of environmental setting of the project block area are given

below.

There is one reserve forests block (Holongapur) and Holongapar Gibbon Wild life sanctuary in the study area.

The major water bodies in the project block area cover Mudal Jan river, Kakajan river and Dihajan river.

The project block is connected through National Highways NH-37 and Lohing Railway station and Nakachari Railway station to rest of the region;

No archaeologically important places are present within project block as per Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) records; and

The block area falls under Seismic ZoneV as per IS: 1893 (Part-1) 2002.

1.1.2 Importance of the Proposed Project

India is not among the major producers of crude oil, as it doesnt have much oil

reserves. Therefore, India generally depends on imports of crude oil from other

countries. There is a heavy imbalance between oil production and consumption in

India. The Indian government is encouraging exploration and production of oil

and gas to a great extent. This would primarily allow India to tap its own

resources there by reducing its import bill.

Discovery of viable hydrocarbon reserves in the state can boost the states

economic development to a great extent. The proposed exploration project is thus

of immense significance for the state.

1.1.3 Details of Exploration Drilling Operation

It is proposed to drill exploratory and appraisal wells in the delineated area

selected through seismic survey to identify and establish hydrocarbon potential.

The proposed project intends to identify the presence of hydrocarbon prospects

through exploratory drilling and to delineate and quantify hydrocarbon pools in

discovered fields through appraisal drilling. The wells will be drilled upto a target

depth of about 5000 m by using water-based drilling mud only.


Executive Summary


FIGURE-1

TOPO-MAP OF AA-ONN-2009/3 BLOCK


Executive Summary


1.1.4 Infrastructure Requirement

Project Cost: The estimated cost of the proposed exploratory & development

drilling planned to be carried out is Rs. 30-35 Crores per each well.

Land Requirement: Minimum land required at each well site during drilling will be

125 m x 125 m, i.e., 1.56 ha. On an average, the land requirement at each well

site, including site facilities and camp site is considered as 1.5-2.0 ha. The land will

be acquired on a temporary basis and adequate compensation as per the guidelines

of local administration will be provided.

Power Requirement: The total power requirement at the drilling site will be 4290

KVA. The power requirement in the drilling site will be catered through Diesel

Generator (DG) sets. The power requirement will be met by 3 Nos of 1430 KVA DG

sets at drilling site. Stand by DG set arrangement of 1430 KVA at drilling site will be

made.

Water Requirement: Water is basically required for preparing drilling mud and for

meeting domestic needs of the campsite. Typically, the water consumption for each

well ranges from 30 m3/day for a short period of 45 to 60 days. However, the

drilling and domestic water requirement would depend on the time required to

drill the well, which is primarily dependent on the proposed depth.

Man Power: The drill site construction would be done largely employing local

labour. At each drill site construction, local employment will be generated for

about 20 person/shift of 12 hrs. in two shifts.

1.2 Description of the Environment

Environmental baseline data survey has been carried within the entire AA-ONN-

2009/3 block, during December 2012 to February 2013, covering winter season.

1.2.1 Land Use Studies

The land use pattern of the total AA-ONN-2009/3 block has been studied by

District Census Hand Books and satellite images. It is observed that no forest land

falls under the block area and 9.61 % of the land falls under cultivable waste

land. On the other hand, 70.38 % of land falls under unirrigated area. The area

not available for cultivation is about 20.01 % forms the bulk of the land use.

1.2.2 Soil Quality

The soil samples were tested at 10 locations during winter season covering

various land uses. It has been observed that the pH of the soil ranged from 7.2

8.1 indicating that is slightly alkaline to moderately alkaline in nature. The

electrical conductivity was recorded as 135 S/cm to 315 S/cm. The organic

carbon content in the study area observed as 0.11 % to 0.28 %, which the soil

falls under very less category. The phosphorus values ranged between 35 - 57

kg/ha. The nitrogen values ranged between 20 36 kg/ha. The potassium values

ranged between 73 - 145 kg/ha.


Executive Summary


1.2.3 Meteorology

On-site monitoring was undertaken for various meteorological variables in order

to generate the site-specific data. The meteorological data generated at the

monitoring site when compared with the data recorded at nearest IMD station

located at Golaghat, it is observed that the data generated at the site is broadly

in comparison with regional meteorology, except for minor variations.

1.2.4 Ambient Air Quality

To establish the baseline status of the ambient air quality in the study area, the air

quality was monitored at 12 locations during winter season of 2012-13. Out of the

twelve locations the minimum and maximum concentration for PM10 and PM2.5 were

varied between 39.4 to 49.8 g/m3 and 12.4 to 16.9 g/m3 respectively during the

study period. The concentrations of SO2 and NOx were varied between 8.2 to 14.5

g/m3 and 12.8 to 20.2 g/m3 respectively. The minimum and maximum

concentrations for total hydrocarbons, methane hydrocarbons and non-methane

hydrocarbons during the study period were observed as 208 to 289g/m3, 126 to

159 g/m3 and 72 to 134 g/m3 respectively. The concentrations of VOCs were

below the detectable limits in all the locations during the study period. From the

analysis of the monitored data, it infers that the air quality levels in the study area

are of fairly good quality and comply with the National Ambient Air Quality

Standards.

1.2.5 Water Quality

The baseline water quality status in the region is established by analyzing about 7

ground water samples and 3 surface water samples during study period. The

physico-chemical and biological analysis revealed that most of the parameters in

ground and surface water samples are well within the prescribed limits of IS:

10500 limits.

1.2.6 Ambient Noise Levels

The noise monitoring has been conducted at 12 locations, covering residential,

commercial and silence zones in the study area. A review of this data indicates that

at all the locations, the noise level was found within the permissible limits of CPCB.

1.2.7 Ecological Environment

There are no reserved forest and national park present inside the block area.

Hoollongpar wildlife Sanctuary is present at distance of 1.7 km in SSW direction

from block boundary. Out of three exploratory drilling wells locations, Teok-C,

Teok-A and Teok-G exploratory drilling wells are present at distance of 12.5 km,

10.0 km and 11.6 km respectively from Hoollongapar Gibbon wildlife sanctuary.

Gibbons are endangered species, as per wildlife protection act 1972.

During the floristic survey, a total of 128 plant species were recorded which

consists of 83 tree species, 23 shrub species, 17 herb species, 4 climbers and 1

parasites were recorded from the study area. The study area mainly consists of

moist mixed deciduous and tropical evergreen type of forest. Therefore,

biodiversity in this region is good and various types of mammals are found.


Executive Summary


Plankton diversity Index for phytoplankton and zooplankton varies from 1.6 to 2.5

and 1.2 to 1.8 respectively. Physico-chemical, biological parameters and diversity

index reveals that the studied water bodies are slightly mesotrophic in nature.

1.2.8 Socio-Economic Environment

The configuration of male and female indicates that the males constitute about

50.64% and females to 49.36% of the total population as per 2011 census

records. The study area on an average has 975 females per 1000 males. In the

study area, as per 2011 census, 0.89 % of the population belongs to Scheduled

Castes (SC) and 1.02 % to Scheduled Tribes (ST).

The percentage of literates to total population is 72.98 %. As per census records

altogether the main workers works out to be 23.31% of the total population. The

marginal workers and non-workers constitute to 20.25% and 56.44 % of the total

population respectively.

1.3 Anticipated Environmental Impacts

The identification and assessment of impacts over the various environmental

attributes in the region due to the proposed exploratory drilling activities in the

project block have been discussed followed by mitigative measures and

environmental management plan for the potential impacts due to the proposed

project activities.

The proposed exploratory drilling activities will last for 45 to 60 days and hence

the impact due to the project are temporary and reversible in nature and will be

localised.

1.3.1 Impact on Topography and Land Use

Considering the small foot print area required during the drilling, only marginal

impact due to change in land use is anticipated and there is no topographical

change is envisaged.

1.3.2 Impact on Climate

Impact on the climatic conditions from the drilling will not be significant.

Considering the quantum of exit gas and the short duration of flow, the impact on

the local or global climate will be insignificant.

1.3.3 Impact on Air Quality

The potential sources of air emissions at the well sites will be as follows:

Dust from earth works (during approach road and site preparation); Emissions from DG sets; Emissions from possible flaring during well testing; and Emissions from vehicles

During the short period of site preparation, mechanical shovels and earthmovers

will be used for vegetation clearance, cut and fill and other site leveling activities.


Executive Summary


However, these activities will be only temporary and the impact to ambient air

quality would be within the close proximity of well site.

The gaseous emissions from the DG set will be controlled by efficient combustion

of fuel in the DG set. The flaring of oil and gas during well testing is a short

duration activity (about 14-21 days). The dimensions of the typical flaring pit

would be approximately 25 m x 10 m x 2 m deep will be used. The setting out of

the flare pit will be done in a manner to direct the flame away from any pockets

of cultivation / existing green cover. Wherever required, special precautions will

be taken to minimize the impact on the local environment and habitat.

1.3.4 Impact on Surface Water and Groundwater Quality

Approximately 15-20 m3/day of wastewater and 8 m3/day of sewage would be

generated from each well site. Water based non-toxic biodegradable fluids with

inhibitive and encapsulative characteristics are proposed to be used as drilling

mud for minimizing any long term impact on groundwater quality. Additionally,

the drilling mud collection and recirculation pond is lined with impervious layer to

prevent seepage and loss of drilling fluid into the subsoil. Further, proper casing

installation and cementing of well will ensure least groundwater contact. The

clarified wastewater will be treated in packaged treatment plant located at the

well sites to meet norms specified by CPCB and ASPCB. The sewage will be

discharged into septic tanks and then to subsoil through soak pits.

1.3.5 Impact on Noise Levels

The maximum predicted noise level at about 100 m from the boundary of the drill

site is about 52.0 dB (A). The ambient noise levels at most of the places in the

region are within the CPCB standards. Since, the drilling operations last for only

120-150 days at each location, impact of the noise due to the proposed

exploratory drilling will be insignificant on the community and will be minimized

after 100 m from drilling well site boundary.

1.3.6 Ecological Impacts

Impact on the ecology of the study area will vary with the proximity of the

habitats from the drilling locations. However, the impacts are of temporary

nature, which will last for few days at each drill location during the exploratory

drilling activities and will thus allow subsequent recovery after the activities

stops.

1.3.7 Demography and Socio-Economics

Although the level of existing communications and support services in the area

are considered adequate based on the population density, establishment of the

proposed project would further strengthen the road network and access to some

of the remote areas with all weather roads would be of distinct beneficial impact.

The overall impact is considered to be positive.

Impact on health due to emissions and noise from drilling activity has been

assessed to be minimal. In addition employees working at the drill site would be


Executive Summary


provided protective devices like ear plugs/ear muffs for ensuring minimum impact

on human health.

For most potential drilling sites in the exploration area, it should be possible to

avoid impact on existing arable land. By following the compensation procedures

and by observing common courtesy, impacts on existing use and benefit rights

holders can be minimized.

1.4 Environment Management Plan

1.4.1 Removal of Equipment and Materials

After completion of the drilling activities, the well will be capped with a wellhead

in place, but all other equipment and materials will be removed from the site. The

site would be returned to its original form in most environment friendly manner.

All empty drums, wastes, used and unused drilling fluids, fuel and lubricants will

be removed from the drilling site. Water supply and effluent discharge hoses and

associated equipment will be removed. The access road(s) would be reinstated.

1.4.2 Decommissioning upon Abandonment

In the event that no economic quantities of hydrocarbons are found, a full

abandonment plan will be implemented for the drilling sites in accordance with

the applicable Indian petroleum regulations. The well will be capped and the land

would be handed over back to the owners in the original form.

1.4.3 Atmospheric Emissions

The combustion of diesel for power generation for the drilling and campsite

operation results in atmospheric emissions of SO2, NOx, CO, Particulates and

Hydrocarbons. Flaring during production testing is of 14 to 21 days duration and

atmospheric emissions are marginal.

There will be no sensitive receptors to the emissions of combustion products in

the vicinity of the proposed drilling operations apart from the crew of the drilling

rig. The impacts caused are therefore, considered to be negligible. Measures to

ensure minimal impacts include appropriate management of power generation

source to achieve fuel efficiency and therefore reduce emissions and use of low

sulphur diesel oil. Environmental monitoring is proposed during drilling and well

testing to ensure maximum combustion efficiency. Flaring towards any standing

vegetation will be avoided. In case if it is inevitable, a suitable barrier will be

erected to prevent any vegetation scorching due to direct heat radiation; and

prior to flaring, the critical equipment will be thoroughly tested.

1.4.4 Noise Environment

The modeling results show that the noise levels will attenuate to below

permissible levels within the drilling site boundary. The Generators will be

properly enclosed and the exhausts will be provided with silencers.


Executive Summary


1.4.5 Management of Drilling Wastes

The major waste product of a drilling operation is the generation of rock cuttings

with residual mud adhering to the drill cuttings and spent drilling fluid. About 400-

500 m3 of drill cuttings per well and 15 m3 spent drilling fluid would need to be

disposed off.

ONGC proposes to use internationally followed methodologies while drilling with

Water Based Muds (WBM). The mud will be reused after its separation from the

cuttings. A mud mixing tank will be set up at the drilling site with a collection

system so that any spill of chemicals will be collected.

The spilled oil may be reused in the mud preparation. The residual drilling fluids

will be reused in the drilling campaign to the maximum extent and the drilling

fluid which can not be further used will be discarded as per procedure.

1.4.6 Management of the Solid Wastes

Small amounts of solid wastes will be generated during normal operation at the

drilling rig. The wastes will be disposed on compliance with local and national

legislations. Spent waste oil will be stored in a secure paved area and disposed to

MoEF/ ASPCB approved waste oil recyclers. Drill cuttings and sludge from drilling

mud to be buried within the impervious lined pit and covered with soil as part of

the site abandonment plan. Biodegradable waste arising from kitchen and

canteen activities to be scientifically composted and the bio-manure so generated

to be used for green belt development.

1.4.7 Management of Waste Disposal sites within Drill Site

The project proponent is committed to dispose the drill cuttings, drill mud and

wastewater generated during the drilling operations into the lined pits of various

sizes and undertaking plantation within the drill site particularly on the reclaimed

pits will be undertaken.

1.5 Environmental Monitoring Program

A detailed post project monitoring in respect of air, water, soil, landuse,

occupational noise, etc. to assess the changes has been evolved covering various

phases of project advancement. A network of sampling locations around the drill

site will be established. The monitoring will include the compliances to legal and

statutory controls imposed on the operation as well as other corporate

commitment to responsible environment management. Systems for monitoring

resource inputs (energy, chemical use, water, raw materials), equipment and

waste generation will also be set up. A detailed wastes management plan with

monitoring programme will be in place during various phases of activity.

1.6 Risk Assessment and Disaster Management Plan

The hazard potential of oil and gas and estimation of consequences in case of

their accidental release during drilling has been identified and risk assessment

has been carried out to quantify the extent of damage and suggest

recommendations for safety improvement for the proposed facilities. Risk


Executive Summary


mitigation measures based on MCA analysis and engineering judgments are

incorporated in order to improve overall system safety and mitigate the effects of

major accidents.

An effective Disaster Management Plan (DMP) to mitigate the risks involved has

been prepared. This plan defines the responsibilities and resources available to

respond to the different types of emergencies envisaged. Training exercises will

be held to ensure that all personnel are familiar with their responsibilities and

that communication links are functioning effectively.

1.7 Project Benefits

The proposed exploration program will establish hydrocarbons in the block. The

development of the oil field will result in considerable growth of service sector and

will also generate new industrial and business opportunities in the area. Small

and medium scale industries may be developed as consequence.

The major benefits of the project include reduction of the oil import bill of the

nation as well as reduction of the imbalance in oil production and consumption.

The commercial development will also lead to investment in Assam, bringing oil

and gas revenues both to the State and to the Central Government. The presence

of ONGC in the region will substantially improves the socio-economic conditions of

the region.

The proposed exploration drilling programme is expected to generate local

employment in the order of about 20 unskilled and semi- skilled people, for a

period of approximately 45 to 60 days at each drilling site location. While this

benefit is small by most standards, it is a significant employment opportunity in

the block.

1.8 Administrative Aspects

The basis of the operational philosophy is that the activities proposed in oil and

gas processing shall be operated in complete compliance with all applicable Laws,

Regulations, Standards and Permits, the Production Sharing Contract (PSC),

corporate policies, procedures, specifications, rules, standards and guidelines. In

order to achieve this, the proposed drilling sites will be maintained by technically

qualified and experienced people. Detailed procedures and plans will be

developed for each activity prior to operations start up. All persons on board the

drilling rig will be an experienced crew with valid qualifications.

The HSE dept is the nodal agency to coordinate and provide necessary services

on environmental issues during construction and operation of the project.

1.9 Conclusions

The proposed exploratory drilling project has certain level of marginal impacts on

the local environment. However, the proposed project has significant beneficial

impact/effects in terms of providing the employment opportunities and various

CSR practices to be followed by ONGC. Growth and development, in harmony

with the environment, has always been the approach of ONGC.


Executive Summary


The conclusions of EIA are:

The proposed project meets the compliance requirements of various environmental regulations;

Adoption of environmental friendly Best Management Practices results in minimising the impacts on environment;

Community impacts of the project will be beneficial, as the project will generate significant economic benefits for the region;

The post drilling, commercial developmental activities of ONGC can reduce the import burdens of crude oil on the nation; and

With the effective implementation of the Environment Management Plan (EMP) during the planning, design, construction and operation phases, the

development and production project can proceed without significant negative

impact on the environment.

AA-ONN-2009/3 NELP-VIII (EIA)

, Page 1

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, Page 2

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, Page 5

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Chapter-1 Introduction

VIMTA Labs Limited, Hyderabad C1-1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) proposes to carryout

exploratory drilling in on-shore Block AA-ONN-2009/3. The block is located in the

Teok area of Jorhat, Assam and on the south-western part of main fields of North

Assam shelf viz. Rudrasagar, Changmigaon area. The nearest hydrocarbon

producing area is Amguri field, which is not with ONGC presently.

The NELP block AA-ONN-2009/3 was awarded to ONGC and OIL (50% PI) along

with the operation ship to ONGC by the Government of India (GOI) vide letter no.

0-19018/29/2009-ONG-I (Pt.II) dt.14.06.2010 and PSC was signed on

30.06.2010. The PEL deed of this block was signed on 02.12.2010. The block

covers area of 84 sq. kms and falling in Jorhat district of Assam state.

This chapter describes the purpose of the report, identification of project and

proponent, brief description of nature, size, location of the project and importance

to the region and country. The chapter also describes the scope of the study,

details of regulatory scoping carried out as per Terms of Reference (TOR) issued

by Ministry of Environment Forests (MoEF), New Delhi.

1.1 Purpose of the Report

As per Environmental Impact Assessment EIA Notification dated 14th September,

2006, exploration of oil & gas falls under category A under project type 1(b)

requires prior Environmental Clearance (EC) to be obtained from MoEF before the

commencement of ground activity.

The application for prior EC (Form-1 and Pre-feasibility Report) for the proposed

project has been submitted to MoEF on 5th March 2012 and same was reviewed

by the Expert Appraisal Committee (Industry II) held during 13th 14th April 2012

in New Delhi to prescribe Terms of Reference (TORs) for the preparation of

EIA/EMP report. TOR has been issued by MoEF vide letter reference F.No. J-

11011/103/2012-IA II (I) dated 13th July, 2012. A copy of the ToR letter, along

with its compliance is enclosed as Annexure-I.

This EIA Report is prepared inline with the ToR issued by MoEF and addresses the

anticipated environmental impacts of the proposed project and proposes the

mitigation measures for the same for obtaining Environmental Clearance (EC)

from MoEF, New Delhi. The report covers the primary data collected during

1st December 2012 to 28th February 2013 representing winter season. Public hearing for the proposed exploratory drilling project was conducted on

2.04.2015 by Pollution Control Board, Assam in accordance with TOR and the

public hearing proceedings and action plan have been included in this final EIA

report.

1.2 Identification of Project and Project Proponent

ONGC has been ranked 357th in the Fortune Global 500 list of the world's biggest

corporations for the year 2012. It is also among the Top 250 Global Energy

Company by PLATTS. ONGC was founded on 14 August 1956 by the Indian state,

which currently holds a 69.23% equity stake. It is involved in exploring

hydrocarbons in 26 sedimentary basins of India, and owns and operates over

11,000 kilometers of pipelines in the country. Its international subsidiary, ONGC

Videsh currently has projects in 15 countries.




1.3 Brief Description of the Project

1.3.1 Nature of the Project

As per the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification dated 14th

September, 2006, the proposed exploratory drilling project falls under Category

A of Activity Type 1(b).

The proposed project intends to identify the presence of hydrocarbon prospects

through exploratory drilling and to delineate and quantify hydrocarbon pools in

discovered fields through appraisal drilling. The proposed project will basically

involve drilling of three exploratory wells in the retention block.

1.3.2 Size of the Project

ONGC has identified six well locations Teok-A, Teok-B, Teok-C, Teok-D, Teok-F

and Teok-G which are included in present EIA study.

It is proposed to drill three exploratory wells for the fulfillment of Minimum Work

Program (MWP) and also to evaluate potential of the entire block.

1.3.3 Project Site Details

1.3.3.1 Location of the Block

The NELP block AA-ONN-2009/3 falls in south western part of established oil

fields like Rudrasagar, Changmigaon area. The nearest proven oil field Amguri

lies in the south-eastern part of the block where 10 wells have been drilled with

oil producer from BCS (AMG-1, 2957-60 m AMG-5, 2890-93 & 2881-85 m) O-

Tipam (AMG-8A, 1906-16-TS-2, 1922.5-24m, 1790-96m-TS1).

The block area lies between latitude 2604400 & 2604900 and longitude

9402030 & 9402600. The area has undulating terrain with tea gardens.

Elevation of the block varies from 101 m to 104 m. Index Map is shown in

Figure-1.1. Tentative well coordinates are as given in Table-1.1.

TABLE-1.1

TENTATIVE WELL LOCATIONS

Sr. No. Well Location Identification Latitude & Longitude 1 Teok-A 26o 47 48.278 N, 94o 23 39.97 E 2 Teok-B 26o 44 39.088 N, 94o 22 28.949 E 3 Teok-C 26o 49 02.359 N, 94o 21 08.040 E 4 Teok-D 26o 44 13.940 N, 94o 22 11.548 E

5 Teok-F 26o 45 28.293 N, 94o 22 35.217 E

6 Teok-G 26o 47 48.507 N, 94o 25 40.098 E

The study area map showing exploratory well locations is shown in Figure-1.2.

Goggle map showing block area with well locations is given in Figure-1.3. The

environmental setting of the block area falling in Jorhat area is given in Table-

1.2 to Table-1.4.




FIGURE-1.1

INDEX MAP

AA-ONN-2009/3

Block NELP-VIII




FIGURE-1.2

TOPOGRAPHIC MAP AA-ONN-2009/3 BLOCK IN JORHAT DISTRICT




FIGURE-1.3

GOOGLE MAP SHOWING WELL LOCATIONS IN AA-ONN-2009/3 BLOCK




TABLE-1.2

ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING OF WELL TEOK-A (1 KM RADIUS)

Sr. No. Particulars Details

1 Well Teok-A Location Village Pirakala-0.6 km NW

Mandal Teok Revenue Circle

District Jorhat

State Assam

2 Well site Coordinates 26o 47 48.27 N, 94o 23 39.97 E

3 Well Site Elevation above MSL 101 m 4 Geographical location in toposheet 83 J/5 5 Nearest representative IMD station Golaghat- 52 km, SW

6 India Meteorological Dept. (IMD), Data

Annual Mean Max Temp 32.75C

Annual Mean Min Temp 15.5C

Annual Average Rainfall 1898.8 mm

Predominant wind direction North West

Study Period Site specific

Mean Max Temp 15.0C

Mean Min Temp -14.0C

Average Rainfall 03 mm


7 Present land use at the site Plain land without vegetation 8 Nearest highway NH-37 (3.1 km, NNW) 9 Nearest railway station Lohing R.S- (8.5 km, SE) 10 Nearest airport Jorhat (21 km, SW) 11 Nearest river Mudal Jan (1.9 km, NE) 12 Nearest town Jorhat 13 Nearest major town with 2,00,000

population Jorhat

14 Villages within 1 km radius Pirakala, Duaragaon, Ballunggaon, Nepam 15 Hills/valleys Nil 16 Nearest tourist place Nil 17 Archaeologically important places Nil 18 Protected areas as per Wildlife

Protection Act,1972 (Tiger reserve, Elephant reserve, Biospheres, National parks, Wildlife sanctuaries, community reserves

and conservation reserves)

Holongapar Gibbon Wild life sanctuary -8.75 km-SSW

19 Reserved / Protected Forests Holongapur RF-8.75 km 20 Seismicity Zone-V as per IS 1983 (Part-1) 2002




TABLE-1.3

ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING OF WELL TEOK-B (1-KM RADIUS)


1 Well Teok-B Location Village Rajai -1.7 km NNE


District Jorhat

State Assam

2

Well site Coordinates 26o 44 37.56 N, 94o 22 38.75 E

3 Well Site Elevation above MSL 101 m 4 Geographical location in

toposheet 83 J/6

5 Nearest representative IMD station

Golaghat- 48 km, SW






Study Period - Site specific

Mean Max Temp 15.0C




7 Present land use at the site Tea gardens (TG) 8 Nearest highway NH-37 (8.5, NNW) 9 Nearest railway station Nakachari R.S- (5.1 km, SSE) 10 Nearest airport Jorhat (18 km W) 11 Nearest rivers Kakajan (1.2 km,ENE) 12 Nearest town Jorhat 13 Nearest major town with

2,00,000 population

Jorhat

14 Villages within 1 km radius Rajai T.G, Naginijan T.G 15 Hills/valleys Nil 16 Nearest tourist place Nil 17 Archaeologically important places Nil 18 Protected areas as per Wildlife

Protection Act,1972 (Tiger reserve, Elephant reserve, Biospheres, National parks,

Wildlife sanctuaries, community reserves and conservation reserves)


19 Reserved / Protected Forests Holongapur RF-3.0 km 20 Seismicity Zone-V as per IS 1983 (Part-1) 2002




TABLE-1.4

ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING OF WELL TEOK-C (1 KM RADIUS)


1 Well Teok-C Location Village Bangaon (0.5 km, SE)

Mandal Teok Revenue circle

District Jorhat

State Assam

2 Well site Coordinates 26o 49 02.35 N, 94o 21 08.04 E 3 Well Site Elevation above MSL 95 4 Geographical location in toposheet 83 J/5 5 Nearest representative IMD station Golaghat 51 km, SW





Predominant wind

direction North West


Mean Max Temp 15.0C




7 Present land use at the site Plain land without vegetation 8 Nearest highway NH-37 (1.3 km, SSE) 9 Nearest railway station Lohing R.S (13.5 km, SE) 10 Nearest airport Jorhat (15 km, SW) 11 Nearest river Kakojan (0.8 km, E) 12 Nearest town Jorhat 13 Nearest major town with 2,00,000

population Jorhat

14 Villages within 1 km radius Bangaon village and Bamkukurachaya village

15 Hills/valleys Nil 16 Nearest tourist place Nil 17 Archaeologically important places Nil 18 Protected areas as per Wildlife

Protection Act,1972 (Tiger reserve, Elephant reserve, Biospheres,

National parks, Wildlife sanctuaries, community reserves and conservation reserves)

Holongapar Gibbon Wild life sanctuary 12.5 km-SSW

19 Reserved / Protected Forests Holongapur RF- 12.5 km SSE 20 Seismicity Zone-V as per IS 1983 (Part-1) 2002




TABLE-1.5

ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING OF WELL TEOK-D (1-KM RADIUS)


1 Well Teok-B Location Village Phechualgaon - 1.6 km SW


District Jorhat

State Assam

2



toposheet 83 J/6


Golaghat- 47 km, SW







Mean Max Temp 15.0C




7 Present land use at the site Tea gardens (TG) 8 Nearest highway NH-37 (9.1 km, NNW) 9 Nearest railway station Nakachari R.S- (4.7 km, SSE) 10 Nearest airport Jorhat (17 km W) 11 Nearest rivers Dihajan (0.8 km, W) 12 Nearest town Jorhat 13 Nearest city Jorhat 14 Nearest major town with

2,00,000 population Jorhat

15 Villages within 1 km radius Baidiha T.G, Nakachar T.G 16 Hills/valleys Nil 17 Nearest tourist place Nil 18 Archaeologically important places Nil 19 Protected areas as per Wildlife




20 Reserved / Protected Forests Holongapur RF (2.0 km, SSW) 21 Seismicity Zone-V as per IS 1983 (Part-1) 2002




TABLE-1.6

ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING OF WELL TEOK-F (1 KM RADIUS)


1 Well Teok-F Location Village Dihabogicha Bangaligaon (0.5 km, N)

Mandal Teok Revenue circle

District Jorhat

State Assam

2 Well site Coordinates 26o 45 26.77 N, 94o 22 45.02 E 3 Well Site Elevation above MSL 105 4 Geographical location in toposheet 83 J/5 5 Nearest representative IMD station Golaghat-51 km, SW





Predominant wind

direction North West


Mean Max Temp 15.0C




7 Present land use at the site Plain land 8 Nearest highway NH-37 (6.4 km, NNW) 9 Nearest railway station Lohing R.S (7.0 km, SE) 10 Nearest airport Jorhat (16 km, SW) 11 Nearest river Kakojan (0.6 km, E) 12 Nearest town Jorhat 13 Nearest major town with 2,00,000

population Jorhat

14 Villages within 1 km radius 1. Dihabagichia Bangoli gaon village and

2. Rajai village 15 Hills/valleys Nil 16 Nearest tourist place Nil 17 Archaeologically important places Nil 18 Protected areas as per Wildlife

Protection Act,1972 (Tiger reserve,

Elephant reserve, Biospheres, National parks, Wildlife sanctuaries, community reserves and conservation reserves)

Holongapar Gibbon Wild life sanctuary (5.2 km-SSW)

19 Reserved / Protected Forests Holongapur RF (5.2 km SSW) 20 Seismicity Zone-V as per IS 1983 (Part-1) 2002




TABLE-1.7

ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING OF WELL TEOK-G (1 KM RADIUS)


1 Well Teok-G Location Village 0.2 km SW, Deodhdl


District Jorhat

State Assam

2



toposheet 83 J/5


Golaghat, 54 km, SW





Predominant wind direction

North West


Mean Max Temp 15.9C

Mean Min Temp 5.8C


Predominant wind direction

South East

7 Present land use at the site Tea gardens (TG) 8 Nearest highway NH-37 (4.0 km, NNW) 9 Nearest railway station Seienghat, R.S- (6.5 km, ESE) 10 Nearest airport Jorhat (21 km WSW) 11 Nearest rivers Mudaijan (1.0 km, W) 12 Nearest town Jorhat 13 Nearest city Jorhat 14 Nearest major town with

2,00,000 population Jorhat

15 Villages within 1 km radius Deodhdl, Chapani 16 Hills/valleys Nil 17 Nearest tourist place Nil 18 Archaeologically important places Nil 19 Protected areas as per Wildlife



Holongapar Gibbon Wild life sanctuary, 11.6 km, SW

20 Reserved / Protected Forests Holongapur RF-11.6 km, SW 21 Seismicity Zone-V as per IS 1983 (Part-1) 2002




1.3.4 Importance of the Project

India imports over 1.5 million barrels of oil per day that place the country at the

9th position among the largest importers of the world. Though the Indian

production has increased in the recent times, the imports were raised by 5% due

to the raised Indian demand of around 4.2%. The demand for crude oil has

crossed over by 3 million barrel per day by the year 2010. There is a heavy

imbalance between oil production and consumption in India. Growth in demand is

expected to catapult the overall demand to 196 MT in 2011-2012 and 250 MT in

2024-25, at an annual growth rate of 3.6%. During the same period, domestic

production is expected to grow at about 2.5% from current 0.8 million barrels per

day. This shows a widening gap in domestic production and demand for crude oil.

Energy security has become one of the top three goals of the Indian Government.

The Indian Government is encouraging exploration and production of oil and gas

to a great extent. This would primarily allow India to tap its own resources there

by reducing its import bill.

Discovery of viable hydrocarbon reserves in the state can boost the states

economic development to a great extent. It would also catalyse influx of

industries in the state. The proposed exploration project is thus of immense

significance for the State.

ONGC is engaged in the exploration of oil & gas in the Block AA-ONN-2009/3.

Discovery of hydrocarbons in this block will substantially improve the socio-

economic conditions of the region. The proposed exploration will also help to

discover the geological past to create the economic future for the region as well

as to the country.

1.4 Scope of the Study

With a view to assess the environmental impacts arising due to the proposed

exploratory drilling in AA-ONN-2009/3 block, ONGC has retained the services of

M/s Vimta Labs Limited, Hyderabad to prepare EIA Report for various

environmental components including air, noise, water, land and biological

components along with parameters of human interest which may be affected and

to prepare an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for mitigating adverse

impacts.

Environmental baseline monitoring has been carried out during winter season of

year 2012-2013 and used to identify potential significant impacts. The scope of

the present study is inline with the TOR as recommended by MoEF. The scope of

study broadly includes:

To conduct literature review and to collect data relevant to the study area; To undertake environmental monitoring so as to establish the baseline

environmental status of the study area;

To identify various existing pollution activities in the ambient levels; Establishing the relevant features of the proposed exploratory drilling that are

likely to have an impact on the environment;

Predicting the impacts on the environment due to exploratory drilling;




To evaluate the predicted impacts on the various environmental attributes in the study area by using scientifically developed and widely accepted

environmental impact assessment methodologies;

To prepare a Disaster Management Plan (DMP) based on Risk Assessment, studies;

To prepare an Environment Management Plan (EMP) outlining the measures for improving the environmental quality and scope for future drilling activities

and Occupational Health and Safety for environmentally sustainable

development; and

To identify critical environmental attributes required to be monitored.

The literature review includes identification of relevant articles from various

publications, collection of data from various Government agencies and other

sources.

1.4.1 Administrative and Legislative Background

The principal Environmental Regulatory Agency in India is the Ministry of

Environment and Forests (MoEF), New Delhi. MoEF formulates environmental

policies and accords environmental clearance for the projects.

The applicable environmental standards for the project are given in Annexure-

II.

1.4.2 Study Area for EIA

The study area for the EIA is the entire AA-ONN-2009/3 exploration block. The

portion of the total block covering the study area is shown in Figure-1.2.

1.4.3 Methodology of the Study

Vimta Labs Limited, Hyderabad along with ONGC officials had conducted a

reconnaissance survey and sampling locations were identified on the basis of:

Collection, collation and analysis of baseline data for various environmental attributes viz Ambient air quality, Water quality, Soil, Noise and Bio diversity etc.

Predominant wind directions in the study area as recorded by India Meteorological Department (IMD);

Existing topography, location of surface water bodies like ponds, canals and rivers;

Location of villages/towns/sensitive areas;

Accessibility, power availability and security of monitoring equipment, pollution pockets in the area;

Areas which represent baseline conditions; and

Field studies have been conducted for a period of three months (December 2012

to February 2013) representing winter season to determine existing conditions of

various environmental attributes as outlined in Table-1.5.




TABLE-1.5

ENVIRONMENTAL ATTRIBUTES AND FREQUENCY OF MONITORING

Sr. No

Environmental Component

Sampling Locations

Sampling Parameters

Total Sampling

Period

Sampling Frequency

1 Meteorology One central location

Temperature, Wind Speed, Wind Direction, Relative Humidity, Cloud Cover, Rainfall

one non monsoon season (Three months)

Continuous hourly recording

2 Ambient Air Quality 12 Locations PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NOx, VOC, THC

CH4-HC and non CH4-HC

Two consecutive

days per week for one non -monsoon season

24 hourly samples

3 Water Quality 3 Locations of surface water & 7 locations of Ground water

As per IS: 10500 Grab sampling Once during study period

4 Noise Monitoring 12 Locations Sound Pressure Levels

Continuously for 24 hours

Once during study period

5 Soil Analysis 10 Locations in Existing ecological resources within study area

Soil profile, Chemical constituents

Composite sample

Once during study period

6 Ecology 8 Terrestrial Ecological Locations & 3 Aquatic location within Existing ecological resources within study area

Flora and fauna Field observations and secondary sources

Once in study period

7 Demography and Socio-economic aspects

Total block area

Demographic profile

Based on District Census Handbook (2011)

8 Land Use Total block area

Trend of land use change for different categories

Based on District Census Handbook (2001) and satellite images

9 Geology - Geological history

Data collected from secondary sources

10 Hydrology - Drainage area and pattern, nature of streams, aquifer characteristics, recharge and discharge rates.

Based on data collected from secondary sources

Apart from the primary data on the existing baseline quality status of various

environmental components, a summary of physical, natural, social and cultural

environment has also been provided incorporating secondary data collected from

various sources. The methodology of monitoring and analysis is given in

Annexure-III.


Chapter-2 Project Description


2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Introduction

This chapter presents the project information including technical details of the

proposed drilling operations, utilities and services, infrastructure facilities and

sources of pollution. The expected types and quantum of the waste generation

and treatment and safe disposal of the waste are also discussed in the chapter.

2.2 Type of the Project

The exploratory drilling operation involves drilling of holes through various sub-

surface layers (geological formations) to predetermined depth of potential

hydrocarbon reserves that are identified through interpretation of seismic data.

The typical flow of events in planning and executing an exploratory well drilling

activity comprises of the following steps:

Site selection & acquisition Site preparation Pre-drilling activities like mobilising and commissioning rig Drilling activities Well testing Well site abandonment and suspension phase Well site restoration in case of non-discovery of hydrocarbons

Exploratory drilling is a temporary activity which lasts for about 45 - 60 days for

each well in the block.

2.3 Need for Exploratory Drilling

ONGC proposes to drill 3 no. of exploratory wells at selected area through seismic

survey to identify and establish hydrocarbon potential. As exploration within the

basin is still in its early stages, each new penetration aids in determining the

basins stratigraphic architecture. The objective of exploratory drilling is to more

definitively ascertain the oil reserves in the block, which then can be progressed

to the development phase. The locations will vary, depending on the progressive

exploration drilling results.

ONGC has identified six well locations Teok-A, Teok-B, Teok-C, Teok-D, Teok-F

and Teok-G and are included in present EIA study. However, it is proposes to

select best suitable three locations only, after carrying out the amplified

geochemical imaging. Accordingly, only three locations have been considered in

the present Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Environmental

Clearance.

2.4 Project Location and Layout Details

It is proposed to drill 3 no. of exploratory wells in the AA-ONN-2009/3 Block of

Jorhat district. The proposed exploratory well sites has been identified based on

the study and interpretation of the stratigraphy and seismic data. Within the




identified location, the actual well drilling sites will be located based on the

following consideration:

Located at a safe distance from the nearest village habitat;

Located at least the height of the well mast away from public road;

Safe distances from any radio transmitters so that the use of explosives, if required and detonators may proceed without the danger of external

activation;

Located at least 300 500 m away from rivers and natural water bodies;

Ensure natural drainage channels are avoided or drainage channels rerouted to ensure unhindered flow of rain / flood water. Where necessary adequate

erosion control measures will be provided;

Located in a manner to avoid mature jungles and reserve forests.

Table-2.1 indicates the tentative well locations falling in the Jorhat of AA-ONN-

2009/3 on-shore block.

TABLE-2.1

TENTATIVE WELL LOCATIONS

Sr. No. Well Location Identification Latitude & Longitude

1 Teok-A 26o 47 48.278 N, 94o 23 39.97 E 2 Teok-B 26o 44 39.088 N, 94o 22 28.949 E 3 Teok-C 26o 49 02.359 N, 94o 21 08.040 E 4 Teok-D 26o 44 13.940 N, 94o 22 11.548 E

5 Teok-F 26o 45 28.293 N, 94o 22 35.217 E

6 Teok-G 26o 47 48.507 N, 94o 25 40.098 E

All practicable means shall be taken to minimize or avoid detrimental effects on

the surrounding environment by virtue of the construction of the location or the

operation of the drilling rig.

The locations have been fixed by ONGC so that least possible effect may be felt

by the surrounding environment and habitation due to the proposed exploratory

drilling activities.

The exploratory well drilling is a short duration activity and after the well testing

is completed, the drill site is restored to near original conditions.

2.4.1 Typical Well Site Details

The site will be sized to contain all equipment and buildings, storage, workshops,

etc. using distances between various rig components in line with existing rules

and regulations for the area of operation and the approved standard operating

procedures of the drilling contractor. Within the above constraints, the site shall

be sized to minimize environmental impact. The approximate area of well site is

dependent on the type of drilling equipment deployed which in turn is dictated by

the planned depth of drilling. Minimum land required at each well site during

drilling will be 125 m x 125 m, i.e., 1.56 ha. On an average, the land requirement at




each well site, including site facilities and camp site is considered as 1.5-2.0 ha. The

typical layout of the well site with ancillary structures is provided in Figure-2.1.

Each exploratory well drill site will require the following facilities:

Portable office cabins / rest rooms (container type cubicles); Drilling rig foundation and celler; Foundation / Pits for ancillary equipments; Space for drill rig equipment, working area and materials lay down area; Waste storage pits; Cutting disposal (impervious lined) pits; Waste storage pit; Septic tank with soak away pits; Paved and contained chemical storage area; Above ground Diesel storage tanks with paved and bunded area; Radio room; Storm water drainage system; Internal roads and fencing.

The proposed drilling sites will be restricted access area and fenced all round with

round the clock watch and ward facility. Entry of vehicles into the drilling site area

will be prohibited except for material movement. Adequate parking facilities will

be provided outside the drilling location.

2.5 Size or Magnitude of Operation

The proposed exploratory drilling project is subject to drilling of 3 wells in an area

of 84 km2 to establish the presence of hydrocarbon reserves. The estimated cost

of the proposed exploration well drilling per each well would be approximately Rs.

30-35 Crores. The salient features of the project and magnitude of various

resources required for the project is given in Table-2.2.

TABLE-2.2

SALIENT FEATURES OF THE PROPOSED EXPLORATORY DRILLING IN

AA-ONN-2009/3 BLOCK OF ASSAM

Sr. No Feature Details

1 Total district area in the block

84 km2

2 Project Operator Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC)

3 Proposed number of wells 3 exploratory drilling wells 4 Depth of wells 3700 m (approximately) 5 Estimated project cost Approximately Rs. 30-35 Crores per each well 6 Duration of exploratory

drilling at each well site 45-60 days

7 Land requirement at each well site including site facilities and camp site

Total Average 1.5-2.0 ha At each well site: about 1.56 ha Base Camp: 0.5 ha (land will be taken on temporary lease) Land use of the well site is private land

8 Hole size and casing 17 and 13 9 Water requirement at each 30 m3/day, for a short period of 45-60 days




Sr. No Feature Details

drill site during drilling phase and water source

Source: Local water sources through tankers/ Contactors

10 Drill mud requirement About 600 m3 of water based drill mud for each well

11 Drill cuttings generation About 400-500 m3/well 12 Drilling Wastewater

generation About 15 m3/day (will be treated before sending for solar evaporation in lined pit at drilling sit

environmental impact assessment …environmentclearance.nic.in/writereaddata/eia/30062015...m/s. oil...

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