2012-08-14 - Revised Iee For SWD, TVM 1

INITIAL ENVIRONMENT EXAMINATION
OF
STORM WATER DRAINAGE

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM MUNICIPAL CORPORATION
February 2012
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM
IEE Report Storm Water Drainage Thiruvananthapuram February 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction 1
1.1 Preamble 1
1.2 Project Background 1
1.3 Regulatory Provisions 1
1.4 Level of Environmental Examination 4
2. Project Details 5
2.1 Sector Background 5

2.2 Storm Water Drainage System 5
2.3 Key Issues 5
2.4 Drains Affecting Thampanoor and East Fort 6
2.4.1 Pazhavangadi thodu 7
2.4.2 Ulloor thodu 8
2.4.3 Pattom thodu 8
2.4.4 Kannammoola thodu 8
2.4.5 Thekkenakkara canal 9
2.5 Other Natural Drains 9
2.5.1 Tettiyar thodu 9
2.5.2 Pangappara thodu 9
2.5.3 Kaimanam-Azhamkulam thodu 9
2.5.4 Amathara thodu 10
2.5.5 Koori thodu 10
2.5.6 Vattakkayal thodu 10
2.6 Additional Drains 10
2.7 Parvathy Puthanar 10
2.8 Edayar Island 10
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2.9 Lanka island 11
2.10 Project Definition and Concept 11
2.11 Urban Storm Drainage 11
2.12 Need for Design Criteria 12
2.13 Improvements to Pazhavangadi Thodu 12
2.13.1 Silt pits 13
2.13.2 Fencing 14
3. Thiruvananthapuram 14
3.1 Geography and Climate 14

3.2 Demography 14
3.3 Tourism 14
3.4 Physical Characteristics 15
3.5 Land Use Pattern 15
4. Environmental Setting 16
4.1 Air Environment 16

4.2 Noise Environment 17
4.3 Topography and Soil 18
4.4 Geology 18
4.5 Climate 18
4.6 Water Environment 18
4.6.1 Surface water 18
4.6.2 Ground water 19
19
4.7 Ecological Resources 19
4.8 Socio – Economic 19
4.9 Cultural Heritage 19
5. Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures 20
5.1 Loss of Household, Business Premises or Livelihood 21

5.2 Existence of Residences Adjacent to the Sub-project Site 21
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5.3 Ground Water Contamination Due to High Water Table 21
5.4 Existence of Surface Water Source 21
5.5 Loss of Amenity to Neighbours 21
5.6 Silt Runoff from Construction Site 21

5.7 Social Conflict 22
5.8 Noise, Dust or Hazardous Materials 22
5.9 Contamination of Land and Water 22
5.10 Indiscriminate Disposal of Spoil/Silt 22
5.11 Exposure of Workers to Contaminated Site 22

5.12 Forecasting Environmental Impact and Mitigation 23
6. Institutional Requirements and Environmental Monitoring Plan 27
6.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan 28

6.2 Period of Implementation 30
6.3 Benefits of the Project 30
7. Community Consultation and Information Disclosure 30
8. Findings and Recommendations 31
9. Conclusions 31
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 Environmental Compliance Requirements of the Subproject 3
Table 2 Land Use Pattern of Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation (2001) 15
Table 3 Ambient Air Quality at Stations near the Project Site 16
Table 4 Noise level at Sub-Project 17
Table 5 Water Quality at Moonattumukku 18
Table 6 Well Water Quality at Pappanamcode 19
Table 7 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 23
Table 8 Environmental Monitoring Plan 28
LIST OF ANNEXURE
Annexure 1 Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist 32

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ABBREVIATIONS & ACRONYMS
ADB ‐ Asian Development Bank
Ac ‐Acre
BOD ‐ Biochemical Oxygen Demand
CPCB ‐ Central Pollution Control Board
o
C ‐ Degree Centigrade
DG ‐ Diesel Generator
DPR ‐ Detailed Project Report
DSC ‐ Design and Supervision Consultant
EIA ‐ Environmental Impact Assessment
EMP ‐ Environment Management Plan
GoK ‐ Government of Kerala
Ha ‐ Hactare
IEE ‐ Initial Environmental Examination
IPP ‐ Investment Program Preparation
km ‐ Kilometer
KSUDP ‐ Kerala Sustainable Urban Development Project
KSPCB ‐ Kerala State Pollution Control Board
KWA ‐ Kerala Water Authority
LPCD ‐ Litres per capita per day
LSGD ‐ Local Self Government Department
LSGDU ‐ Local Self Government Department (Urban)
m ‐ metre
m2 ‐ Square metre
m3 ‐ cubic meter
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m3 / hr ‐ cubic meter per hours
max. ‐ Maximum
MC ‐ Municipal Corporation
mld/ MLD ‐ Million Litres per Day
mm ‐ Millimeter
MoEF ‐ Ministry of Environment and Forest
NA ‐ Not Applicable
NH ‐ National Highway
O&M ‐ Operation and Maintenance
OM ‐ Operations Manual
PIU ‐ Project Implementation Unit
PMU ‐ Project Management Unit
PPTA ‐ Project Preparation Technical Assistance
Rs. ‐ Rupees
SIEE ‐ Summary Initial Environmental Examination
Sq.km ‐ Square kilometer
SPM ‐ Suspended Particulate Matter
STP ‐ Sewage Treatment Plant
SWD ‐Storm Water Drainage
TS Canal ‐ Travancore Shornur Canal
TA ‐ Technical Assistance
TSS ‐ Total Suspended Solids
TMC ‐ Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation
US ‐ United States of America
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EXEUTIVE SUMMARY
1. The Government of Kerala (GoK) is implementing the Kerala Sustainable Urban

Development Project (KSUDP) under the assistance of Asian Development Bank. The goal
of the programme is to improve the level, quality and sustainability of basic urban services
in selected Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), contributing to improved quality of life among the
urban poor. KSUDP will be implemented over a period of five years beginning in 2006, and
will be funded by a loan via the Multitranche Financing Facility (MFF) of the Asian
Development Bank (ADB).
2. KSUDP Investment Program implementation activities will be monitored by through a

separate Investment Program Management Unit (PMU). The ultimate implementation
responsibility lies with ULBs in coordination with various other Departments of GoK.
3. ADB requires the consideration of environmental issues in all aspects of the Bank’s
operations, and the requirements for Environmental Assessment are described in ADB’s
SPS (2009). This states that ADB requires environmental assessment of all project loans,
program loans, sector loans, sector development program loans, loans involving financial
intermediaries, and private sector loans.
4. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) has been prepared for the Storm Water
Drainage of Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation, specifically for the
improvements to Pazhavangadi thodu and other storm water drains/canals.
5. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is proposed as part of this report which

includes (i) mitigation measures for significant environmental impacts during
implementation (ii) environmental monitoring program, and the responsible entities for
mitigation monitoring, and reporting (iii) public consultation and information disclosure
and grievance redress mechanism.
6. Under the Storm Water Drainage programme, detailed study of the flooding of low lying
areas and storm water network in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation was
carried out. This IEE covers the entire improvements proposed for the up gradation of
storm water drainage.
7. The subproject locations are all the storm water drains including nallahs and manmade
canals. A few stretches of the storm water network is situated in areas in having saline
water intrusion. There are no protected areas and there is no mangroves in or near the
subproject sites. Trees, vegetation (mostly shrubs and grasses), and animals are those
commonly found in urban areas.
8. Some minor negative impacts were identified in relation to construction activities

connected with improvement to the storm water drains. A number of impacts and their
significance have already been reduced by amending the design thus no impacts were
identified as being due to the project design or location. Mitigation measures have been
developed to reduce all negative impacts to acceptable levels.
9. During the construction phase, impacts mainly arise from the need to dispose of quantities
of silt and sediment removal and disposal and from the disturbance to residence,
vii


businesses and noise. These are common impacts of construction in urban areas, and there
are well developed methods for their mitigation.
10. The proposed subproject intends to provide comprehensive and lasting solution to the
flooding problems in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation, particularly in the
Thampanoor and Pazhavangadi areas. By this subproject the negative environmental
impact developed due to unscientific use of natural sources is being corrected and
minimized. The proposed system will enhance the carrying capacity of the storm water
drainage system of the city and there by improve the utilities of the common people. The
storm water drainage in the TMC is concerned with the accumulation of storm water runoff
resulting in flooding. So it is required to convey the storm water as quickly as possible to
the outfall. Due to urbanization the impervious area in the drainage basin has increased
considerably. The Kerala situation doesn’t permit the traditional engineering approach of
storm water management through on site or offsite detention storage or infiltration. There
is a good network of storm, water drainage system for Thiruvananthapuram Municipal
Corporation. Most of these drains become ineffective due to unscientific disposal of
municipal solid waste, sewage and sullage from nearby residential building and
commercial establishments.
11. The main activities proposed are desilting and side protection of all the thodus and canals
in the city. Studies indicated that additional canals are required in the entire
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation area, to completely avoid flooding of low
lying areas particularly Thampanoor and East Fort areas.
12. There were limited opportunities to provide environmental enhancements, but certain
measures were included. For example it is proposed that the project will employ workers
who live in the vicinity of construction sites to provide them with a short-term economic
gain.
13. Mitigation will be assured by a program of environmental monitoring conducted during

construction to ensure that all measures in the EMP are implemented and to determine
whether the environment is protected as intended. This will include observations on-site
and off-site, document checks, and interviews with workers and beneficiaries, and any
requirements for remedial action will be reported
14. The stakeholders were involved in developing the IEE through face-to-face discussions on
site and public meeting held at the proposed sites, after which views expressed were
incorporated into the IEE and in the planning and development of the project. A
grievance redress mechanism involving a Grievance Redress Committee at TMC level has
been proposed under the project.
15. Therefore the subproject is unlikely to cause significant adverse impacts. The potential adverse
impacts that are associated with design, construction, and operation can be mitigated to
standard levels without difficulty through proper engineering design and by the incorporation
or application of recommended mitigation measures and procedures. Based on the findings of
the IEE, the classification of the Project as Category “B” is confirmed. It is concluded that the
proposed sub‐project should proceed, with appropriate mitigation measures and monitoring
programs identified in the IEE.
viii

Project: Kerala State Urban Development Project
Document: IEE Report Storm Water Drainage Thiruvananthapuram February 2012

1. Introduction
1.1 Preamble

ADB extends loans and provides technical assistance to its developing member countries
for a broad range of development projects and programmes. It also promotes and facilities
investment of public and private capital for economic and social development. An ADB
mission made a fact-finding visit to Kerala State from 26th February to 3rd March 2003 for
Technical Assistance to prepare the Kerala Sustainable Urban Development Project.
1.2 Project Background
The Project Management Unit (PMU) of Kerala Sustainable Urban Development Project
(KSUDP) was created for implementation of the said project under Local Self
Government Department (LSGD). Project Implementation Units (PIU) based in the
project cities have also been provided with necessary consulting services under the loan to
strengthen their project management and implementation capability including engineering
design and construction supervision.
The main focus and thrust areas of the project are:
• Improvement and augmentation of water supply system
• Sewerage and sanitation
• Storm water drainage
• Roads and transportation
• Solid waste management
• Community infrastructure development
1.3 Regulatory Provisions
The environmental assessment and review process for any sub-project included under KSUDP
should address the requirements of Government of India's (Gol) environmental legislations. In
1986, the Environment (Protection) Act was promulgated as an umbrella legislation that
supplements existing environmental regulations. Under this Act a framework for
environmental clearance was introduced in 1994, requiring that Environmental Impact
Assessments (EIAs) be conducted for new development projects with a cost of Rs.1,000
million (approximately US $ 22.22million) or more and capacity expansion/augmentation
with cost of Rs.500 million (approximately US $ 11.11million). This notification is now
superseded by the notification dated 14th September, 2006 and provides a detailed and
comprehensive framework for environmental clearance, requiring that environmental impact
Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 1 of 34


assessments be conducted for new development projects. Projects are now required to pass
through a process of screening, scoping and classification either as category A or category B,
depending on severity of impacts and nature of projects, with stipulated thresholds for various
types of projects for categorization. As for municipal infrastructure projects are concerned,
only common municipal wastewater management facility and common effluent treatment
plants require prior environmental clearance under this notification.
Any component of urban infrastructure project having potential to generate sewage or trade
effluent will come under the purview of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act,
1974. The sub-project "Thiruvananthapuram Storm Water Drainage Project” falls under the
ambit of environmental regulations of the country and mandatory requirement of obtaining
clearances as per various statutes. The revamping of storm water drains as proposed here
under requires activities to stop disposal of solid waste and discharge of sewage and sullage
into the storm water drains, nallahs and thodus. This necessitates the requirement of new
sewage lines as well as sullage lines. In the case of laying of new sewer lines attracts the
provisions of the Water act. Hence consent as required under section 25/26 of the Water
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974 has to be obtained for establishment and
operation of the sewer lines. Such projects have to obtain consent to establish under section 25
of the Water Act from Kerala State Pollution Control Board before starting implementation
and consent to operate before commissioning. The Water Act also requires the occupier of
such sub-projects to take measures for abating possible pollution due to making the discharges
from the sewer lines. It clearly indicates that these sewer lines are to be connected to scientific
sewage treatment plants. The sewage treatment plant also required to comply with the
provisions of the Water Act.
The sub-projects having potential to emit air pollutants into the atmosphere have to obtain
consent to establish under section 21 of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act,
1981 from Kerala State Pollution Control Board before starting implementation and consent
to operate before commissioning the project. Hot mix plants, wet mix plants, stone crushers,
diesel generators etc is proposed to be establish as part of the sub-project implementation, the
operation of which will fall under the purview of the Air Act. The contractor is required to
obtain consent to establish these plants and equipments before installing and is required to
obtain consent to operate before starting construction at the site from the KSPCB. The
occupier of the project/facility has the responsibility to adopt necessary air pollution control
measures for abating air pollution during construction stage.
The ADB guidelines stipulate addressing environmental concerns, if any, of a proposed

activity in the initial stages of investment program preparation. For this, the ADB Guidelines
categorizes the proposed components into varies categories (A, B, C or FI) to determine the
level of environmental assessment required to address the potential impacts. Level of
environmental assessment required for each category of Investment Program as per ADB's
environmental assessment guidelines, 2003 is presented below


Category A Subproject components with potential for significant adverse environmental
impacts. An environmental impact assessment (EIA) is required to address significant
impacts;
Category B Subproject components judged to have some adverse environmental impacts, but
of lesser degree and/or significant than those for category A projects. An initial environmental
examination (lEE) is required to determine whether significant environmental impacts
warranting an EIA are likely. If an EIA is not needed, the lEE is regarded as the final
environmental assessment report. A subproject is categorized as category B sensitive, if that
subproject has environmentally sensitive components. The projects that are near to
environmentally sensitive areas, or that involve deforestation, loss of biodiversity, involuntary
resettlement, processing, handling or disposal of hazardous substances or activities that may
be of concern of wide group of external stakeholders are categorized as B sensitive;
Category C Components of subprojects unlikely to have adverse environmental impacts. No

EIA or lEE is required, although environmental implications are still reviewed; and
Category Fl Projects are classified as Category FI if they involve a credit line through a
financial intermediary or an equity investment in a financial intermediary. The financial
intermediary must apply an environmental management system. Unless all subprojects will
results in insignificant environmental impacts.
The environmental compliance requirements of the sub-project are detailed in table 1
Table 1: Environmental Compliance Requirements of the Subproject

Components of Environmental Acts/Regulation Compliance Requirement
Subproject
Laying of storm 1. The Water (Prevention and 1. Consent to establish from KSPCB
water drain Control of Pollution) Act, before starting implementation
1974, as amended from time 2. Consent to operate from KSPCB
to time before commissioning
2. The Air (Prevention and 1. Consent to establish from KSPCB

Control of Pollution) Act for putting up diesel generators
1981, as amended from time before establishing
to time 2. Consent to operate from KSPCB
diesel generators before operating
3. The Municipal Solid Waste 1. Authorization from KSPCB for the

(Management and Handling) identified site for the disposal of
Rules 2000 silt and sludge removed from
thodus/canals before starting
implementation and management
of the same as per conditions.


Components of Environmental Acts/Regulation Compliance Requirement
Subproject
During 1. The Water (Prevention and The contractor is required to obtain

implementation of Control of Pollution) Act, consent for making discharge of the
the storm water 1974, as amended from time sewage from construction camps, if
drainage project to time any, from KSPCB before starting the
construction camps.
2. The Air (Prevention and 1. Consent to establish hotmix plants,

Control of Pollution) Act diesel generators etc by the
1981, as amended from time contractor from the KSPCB before
to time starting implementation.
2. Consent to operate hotmix plants,
diesel generators etc by the
contractor from the KSPCB before
starting construction.
3. Valid consent to operate the stone
crusher and M- sand units issued
from the KSPCB to the crusher
owner
Removal of trees The Kerala Preservation of Sanction for cutting trees from
from the site Trees Act, 1986 authorized officer
All components The Environment Policy and Categorization of sub-project
Operations Manual (OM) components into A, B or C and
2003. Environmental developing required level of
Considerations in ADB environmental assessment for
Operation each component
1.4 Level of Environmental Examination
Though the sub-project aims to improve the environmental quality of the city, certain
activities involved during various phases of the project may have potential to cause certain
negative environmental impacts. These impacts may arise during implementation and
operation phase and may also arise after end of operation period. The initial environmental
examination (lEE) is conducted for the sub-project to identify these negative impacts of the
subproject based on the scale and magnitude of activities coupled with the environmental
setting of the project location and to develop appropriate environmental management plan
(EMP) to be incorporated in the design and implementation to ensure that the sub-project is
unlikely to cause any negative impacts.
The lEE was based on secondary sources of information plus field reconnaissance surveys.
The data collected through, environmental and geotechnical study of the storm water network
were also used for preparation of the report.


2. Project Details
The proposal is for improvements to Pazhavangadi thodu diversion works, Thampanoor area
and Thekkanakkara canal. The expected beneficial population in the project area is 1070980 in
2036.
There are large number of sewage discharges and sullage discharges into the storm water
drains in the city area. While implementing improvements to thodus and drains all such
sewage and sullage discharges will be stopped and alternate arrangement for sewerage lines
are to be provided. It has to be ensured that these waste water is reaching the STP being
constructed at Valiyathura. The unscientific disposal of municipal solid waste into the storm
water drainage system will be prevented and the entire municipal solid waste is proposed to be
incorporated with the existing municipal solid waste management system in
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation.
2.1 Sector Background
A detailed project report for upgrading the storm water drainage of the Thiruvananthapuram
Municipal Corporation was submitted incorporating projects under KSUDP (ADB assisted)
and projects under JNNURM in September, 2008 and got sanction for the project from
CPHEEO, New Delhi.
2.2 Storm Water Drainage System
The drainage network of the city consists of two rivers, a few canals (thodus), their feeders
and lakes. The rivers are Karamana and Killiyar which flow through the city area. There are a
number of drains and sub drains in the city area namely Pazhavangadi, Ulloor, Pattom,
Kannanmoola (Amayizhanjan), Thekkenekara and Kariyil thodus and natural drains namely
Tettiyar, Pangappara, Kaimanam-Azhamkulam, Amathara, Koori and Vattakkayal thodus.
Other important drains contributing to storm water drainage to the TMC are Choozhampala,
Anathanthodu, Edanada, Arayalloor ela and Thiruvallom-Pallathukadavu thodu.
Water conservation is another important area that needs immediate attention. In spite of
abundant water resources, the city is facing water scarcity. Hence conservation of water is
needed to restore the water for future needs. The developing areas surrounding the city are
witnessing large scale construction activities resulting in unscientific filling of low lying areas
leading to blockage of natural drains and reduction in ground water recharge.
2.3 Overall Study of Pazhavangadi Thodu
The Pazhavangadi thodu (stream) is the smallest but most problematic and southernmost
tributary of Kannanmoola/Amazyzhanjan thodu. The entire watershed up to Kannanmoola is
bounded roughly between 76o 55’ 30” E and 76o 57’50” E Longitudes and 8o 29’5” N and 8o
30’40” N latitudes, covering an area of about 703 ha. It is relatively shallow with a flat
gradient, and as it traverses trough one of the busiest areas of the city, in the vicinity of the


KSRTC bus stand and the central railway station in the Thampanoor area, it has become a
notorious receiving stream for debris, other solid waste, silt from construction sites, as also
domestic/commercial wastewater.
The roadside storm water drains in the area that outfall into the thodu often backs up and
floods the Thampanoor, Mele Pazhavangadi and East fort areas, and disturbs the busy
pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The thodu occasionally overflows its banks as it comes out
of the culvert in the Mele Pazhavangadi area in front of the Ganapathy temple. It is
unfortunate that the indiscriminate human abuse of this thodu has turned it into the main
cause of flooding in these and other areas, rather than being a boon to relieve the excessive
runoff resulting from the ever-counting urbanization.
Peak flow estimate were made for the Pazhavangadi thodu at five salient locations, one at the
start near KWA water works, second at Bakery Junction, third at Hosing Board Jn, fourth at
Thampanoor and fifth at it confluence with Aamayizhanjan/Kannammoola thodu, about 0.5
km downstream of Pattom-ulloor thodu confluence. The drainage areas were delineated
using the available contour maps and information collected in the field. The cabinet sub-
committee of Government of Kerala and the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation had
already decided that hydrologic analysis of all such channels will be based on the 50 year
return period flood through the CPHEEO had suggested the 2 year design flood. Since peak
flows in all such channels are determined only merely as ‘estimates’ the relatively simple
and universally accepted Rational formula was used in this analysis, using the IDF curves
developed for the city and choosing parameters judiciously.
The contributing area to Thampanoor is found to be 2.91 sq km , or 291 ha.The stream length
up to Thampanoor railway culvert is 2.8 km, in which distance the elevation falls from about
63m MSL at Observatory hills (IMD/KWA Offices) to 22.7 m (bed) at the beginning of the
stream, 12.3 at Bakery Jn 8.75 at Housing Board Jn and to 5.8 m in the channel bed at
Thampanoor, giving an average slope of 17.7m/km (0,057).the stream transverses through
Bacjkery jn. and Chengalchoola in a southerly direction. It may be noted that the flow from
backwash at the water treatment plant of KWA, which enters the starting point of
Pazhavangadi thodu, is negligible (2% of 72mls=0.017m3/s),at 1.7% of 2 – year and 0.8% of
50-year peak runoff.Tthe quality is also not too bad since the raw water reaches the plant
after storage in two dams and a pre-treatment settling tank at the source, and the chemicals
are only small concentrations of slum and lime.
2.4 Key Issues


The condition of existing water bodies as natural drainage for storm water is deteriorating.
Dumping of solid waste from slaughter houses, markets, hotels, etc., and discharge of
untreated sewage directly into the water bodies lead to contamination of water. Unscientific
and indiscriminate methods of sand mining have resulted in erosion of river banks.
• Due to reduced cross sectional area of rivers, flash floods have become common during
downpour
• Recurrent floods as a result of insufficient drainage are the perpetual problems faced by
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation during the past several years. Thampanoor
and East Fort areas are the worst affected with extensive water-logging during rainy
season
• Measures to prevent water logging is tried from time to time to ease the graveness of the
situation. An abrupt rain of high intensity may lead to water logging of low laying areas
disrupting the city life considerably. A permanent solution to the problem is to be evolved.
• The reclamation of low lying areas for development activities is the main reason for water-
logging. Most of the flood moderation zones in the city have been converted into concrete
buildings and apartments resulting in excessive runoff.
• Improper maintenance of the existing drains coupled with excessive runoff is the root
cause of flooding of low lying areas. In-depth study of the present status of the drains,
their carrying capacity, anticipated flood discharge and the probable routing/re-routing
may be devised and implemented for restoring/enhancing the status of drainage network in
the city to solve the issue to a significant extent.
• Reduction in carrying capacity of the existing Pazhavangadi thodu is due to heavy silt
deposition, inadequate cross section at few stretches, disposal of solid wastes into the
thodu, growth of vegetation in the thodu apart from encroachments.
• Most of the affected areas are low lying
• Inadequate cross-section in culverts obstruct normal flow in the canals/drains.
• Poor condition of some of the existing culverts resulting in overflow and flooding of
adjoining areas
• The drains are more prone to disposal of solid wastes and growth of vegetation resulting
in reduction/stagnation of normal flow
• Lack of awareness and public responsibility regarding disposal of wastes
• Lack of coordination in maintenance of the existing canals and storm water drains by the
responsible agencies and
• Misuse of storm water drains and canals or the disposal of solid waste and discharge of
sewage and sullage.
2.5 Drains Affecting Thampanoor and East Fort


Flooding occurs frequently in Thampanoor and East fort areas during rainy season. The
Pazhavangadi thodu (Nallah/natural drain), starting from observatory hills and nearby areas,
carries the surface water and backwash from the water treatment plant and passes through
Thampanoor, crosses under the railway lines and reaches East Fort area. Detailed analysis of
the drainage pattern of the catchments of this drain reveals that the carrying capacity of the
thodu at Thampanoor is insufficient to carry the runoff from its catchments along with the
runoff of the area adjacent to the railway station and bus stand. Particularly due to the
indiscriminate disposal of large quantities of silt and debris which are cleared only
infrequently. The water during down-pour in the area adjacent to the railway station and bus
stand is not drained quickly into the thodu as the carrying capacity of the leading drains
including the drain around Ponnara Sreedhar Park is totally blocked in some places and not
having sufficient cross section elsewhere. Storm water stagnates for a period of time causing
flooding in the Thampanoor area. So also the cross-sectional area of the culvert beneath the
railway yard is getting reduced year after year due to accumulation of debris and silt.
Moreover, portions of the old culvert structure is said to be still trapped inside the newly
constructed culvert, blocking the already reduced vent-way.
The drains leading to Pazhavangadi thodu from the area adjacent to the railway station and
bus stand should be redesigned and reconstructed to carry the storm water and drain off the
area to the thodu without stagnation. It is to be ensured that the culverts under the railway line
as well as the canal portion below the railway tracks are to be frequently cleared off silt and
debris. The capacity of the drain downstream of Ganapathy temple upto Thakaraparambu is
observed to be sufficient to carry the flood discharge of the upstream catchments only. So the
storm water collected in Putharikandam maidanam and adjacent areas were directed to the
drain leading to Thekkenakara thodu through the drain under the commercial buildings. All
the leading drains in the area are either choked or defunct resulting in the storm water finding
its way to Pazhavangadi thodu, which does not have adequate carrying capacity for this
additional flow. Moreover, the water collected in the built up areas like Padmanagar colony
also finds its way to the Pazhavangadi thodu. The network of drains in the East Fort city bus
stand area is to be restored and revamped so that major share of the storm water is directed to
Thekkenakara thodu. The thodu downstream of Ganapathy temple is to be widened to
accommodate any additional runoff. The culverts and cross drainage works are also to be
remodeled to carry the additional discharge. Chain link fencing on both sides of the thodu to
prevent dumping of debris and the solid wastes into the thodu can also be thought of for the
entire length.
Other important drains carrying storm water in the city are Amayizhanjan thodu, Kannamoola
thodu, Ulloor thodu, Pattom thodu, Kariyil thodu, Choozhampala thodu, Anathanthodu thodu,
Edanada thodu, Arayalloor thodu, Ela thodu, Thiruvallom thodu, Pallathukadavu thodu,
Azhankal thodu, and Koori thodus. Due to steady increase in population, the need for housing
complexes and colonies have also increased. The overall development activities intruded with
the drainage system and necessitated new storm water drains have become the imperative
need of the day. Additional storm water drains in an average of about 1km per ward may
suffice the proper drainage in all the 100 wards of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal
Corporation.


2.5.1 Pazhavangadi thodu
Pazhavangadi thodu starts from observatory hills and KWA water treatment plant area and
merges with Amayizhanjan thodu near Kannamoola and has a length of about 5.4km. It is the
main discharge canal of Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation and traverses through
the important areas of the city such as Thampanoor, Pazhavangadi, Thakaraparambu,
Vanchiyoor and Pattoor. The width of the thodu varies from 3 to 6m. Many road side drains
make discharge into this thodu. The road culverts of insufficient cross section were noticed to
be the main hindrance for the free flow of water through the thodu. These culverts were re-
constructed many times to ensure flow of water without any stagnation. The re-construction of
the culverts and desilting of the thodu has decreased the incidence of flooding to a certain
extent. But periodic desilting of the thodu is not yet to be essential as the disposal of soloid
material into the thodu continued unabated.
2.5.2 Ulloor thodu
Ulloor thodu originates from pothencodu area and enters the TMC area at Edavakode and
passes through the northern part of the city such as Mannanthala, Ulloor, Chalakuzhy and
Murinjapalam and reaches Kannamoola where it joins with the Amayizhanjan thodu. From
Edavakode to Kannanmoola the Uloor thodu has a length of about 8km and a width of 10 to
15m. Dhobis in the city used to wash cloths in this thodu. Some portion of thodu is noticed to
be highly contaminated and the flow is stagnant in several reaches. Several natural drains join
with this thodu bringing silt and debris to Kannamoola thodu. Due to solid wastes disposal
and silt deposit inside the thodu the cross sectional area reduces leading to over flow of the
thodu during rainy season resulting in flooding in the low lying areas on both sides of the
thodu. Further it is observed that sewage and sullage from the houses on the banks of thodu
are directly diverted into this canal making the water contaminated.
Several housing colonies, houses, commercial establishments and slums are located on the
banks of Ulloor thodu. Whenever flash flood occurs, the thodu overflows and cause havoc to
the residents. The Kannanmoola thodu join with Amayizhanjan thodu at Kannanmoola.
Restoration of Ulloor thodu is necessary particularly to the stretch passing through the
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation area.
2.5.3 Pattom thodu
Pattom thodu is a natural drain with an average width of 1 to 3m and length of about 6.5km.
It starts from the upper reaches of Kudappanakunnu, on the eastern part of the city. Pattom
thodu finally discharges into Amayizhanjan thodu at Kannanmmola. It is understood that in
early days Pattom thodu has a major role in controlling flood in the city area. However now
Pattom thodu is fully silted up resulting in overflow and flooding of nearby areas of the city. It
is observed that there are few fully silted areas in the thodu. There is encroachment on the
silted area of the canal, which in turn, reduces the carrying capacity of the canal. Pattom
thodu is to be urgently desilted and adequate side protection has to be given to prevent further
encroachment and to maintain its carrying capacity.


2.5.4 Kannammoola thodu
Kannanmoola thodu also called Aamayizhanjan thodu starts at about 0.7km upstream of
Kannanmoola bridge. Before joining Akkulam lake Ulloor todu and Pattom thodu joins with
Kannanmoola thodu. The Kannanmoola thodu has a width of 20 to 30m and a length of about
5.7km. The Pazhavangadi thodu joins at about 0.25km below the Ulloor and Pattom thodu
confluence. As in the case of other canals in the city, Kannanmoola thodu is also in a very
poor condition with low carrying capacity as a result of deposition of silt and debris,
vegetation, poor maintenance, bank erosion and low velocity. Unless the condition is
scientifically improved, possibility of flooding in this area cannot be controlled.
2.5.5 Thekkenakkara canal
The Thekkenakkara canal is one of the main flood water canals which starts from Karimadom
colony southeast of East fort and passes through the most populous areas like East fort,
Padmanabhaswamy temple, Sreevaraham, Muttathara, NH bye-pass, and ends in Parvathy
Puthanar near Puthenpalam. The entire stretch of the thodu is now choked with silt and debris.
About half of the length of the thodu is covered with slab, and desilting is very tedious in this
stretch. Thekkenakkara canal has a width of 3m and length of 2.5km. Several small drains
join with this canal in various portions, and in many places these canals are to be
reconstructed.
A portion of the storm water of Pazhavangadi thodu is proposed to be diverted to this canal at
East Fort, and flooding in East Fort area can be avoided to a considerable extend. The
proposal is to construct a connecting canal. The canal beds and sides appear to have been
constructed with rock planks with brick arch. Manholes are provided for proper maintenance
of the canal.
2.6 Other Natural Drains
Tettiyar and Pangappara thodu are natural drains which, if restored, may help drain out water
from the marshy and waterlogged areas at Kazhakootam near Technopark and the college of
engineering, Kulathoor.
2.6.1 Tettiyar thodu
The Thettiyar thodu is running in the premises of Technopark, Kazhakuttam and is being
silted up. Protection of Tettiyar thodu will prevent flooding and water logging in the
surroundings of the Technopark area.
2.6.2 Pangappara thodu
The Pangappara thodu runs in the proximity of Karyavattom university campus and college of
engineering campus, Kulathoor. Major portion of the thodu is not in a stable condition to
sustain the seasonal rainwater flow. Protection of this thodu is a potential solution of the total
flooding problems in the area and may help prevent water-logging.


2.6.3 Kaimanam-Azhamkulam thodu
The Kaimanam-Azhamkulam natural drain starts from Kaimanam and runs parallel to
Karamana river and finally discharges into Karamana river. The drain has to be desilted and
side protection works are required for a stretch of about 1km.
2.6.4 Amathara thodu
Amathara todu runs through Nalanda junction, Charachira and leads to Plamoodu via Kanaka
nagar in the city. The drain is observed to be blocked and ineffective at several places and
needs urgent repairs.
2.6.5 Koori thodu
Koori thodu, once used for navigation is one of the drains reach in Parvathy Puthanar. It is
observed that, now the entire length of Koori thodu is blocked. The koori thodu is to be
opened with adequate maintenance work which is essential for controlling the water-logging
in Chakka area.
2.6.6 Vattakkayal thodu
Vattakkayal thodu discharges into Parvathy Puthanar. The canal starts from a big pond at
Chacka and is having a length of 500m.
2.7 Additional Drains
Several natural drains in TMC are observed to be chocked, defunct and even encroached
upon. In some cases it is difficult to trace the path of original drains mainly due to
encroachment. As the influence areas of these drains could not find way to drain off water
either creating a water stagnant condition or flooding. For such redundant drains some
suitable alternative drains are to be constructed or the original path is to be located and
restored. Other important drains contributing storm water to the city canals are
Choozhampala, Anathanthodu, Edanada, Arayalloor Ela and Thiruvallom Pallathukadavu
thodus. Apart from this, the road side drains carrying storm water also form part of the
drainage system in the city, the improvement of which has been included under the sector on
traffic and transportation.
2.8 Parvathy Puthanar
The major man-made drain in the city is Parvathy Puthanar (Travancore Shoranur canal or
T S canal) with Edayar at south end and Aakkulam lake at the north. 36 small drains from the
city area discharge into this canal. Parvathy Puthanar runs parallel to the sea shore through
the coastal belt of Thiruvananthapuram city. Some of the reaches of the canal are badly
damaged and so need to be protected. Certain reaches of T S canal identified for improvement
include Moonnattumukku to Vazhavila, Thekkanekara feeder canal, Kariyal thodu and
Panathura to Kovalam. Although desilting of the canal has been arranged under other projects,
side protection and strengthening are to be taken up.


2.9 Edayar Island
Karamana and Killi rivers meet upstream of Edayar near Thiruvallam, after which the river
bifurcates and passes around Edayar before joining the Lakshadeep sea on the west. The river
outlet at Poonthura (Poonthura Pozhi/sandbar) is adjacent to this island and hence the back
flow of water at the Pozhi causes damage to the island, constantly eroding the banks. Suitable
retaining structures are to be constructed to protect the island. The discharge route of the two
rivers into the sea is passing through this area causing very much turbulent to the water body.
Moreover this island is fit to be developed as a tourist centre.
2.10 Lanka Island
Lanka island is situated near the famous Sree Parasurama swamy temple. The banks of the
island are prone to severe erosion, and needs urgent stabilization. Smooth flow of flood water
is also obstructed due to the bank erosion.
2.11 Project Definition and Concept
The proposed subproject intends for ensuring a comprehensive and lasting solution to the
flooding problems in Thampanoor and Pazhavangadi areas. The works involved can be
divided into the following three categories:
A. Improvements to Pazhavangadi thodu
B. Improvements to drains and canals in Thampanoor area
C. Improvements to Thekkanakkara canal
Alternatives for solving the flooding problems
Following alternatives are considered under improvements of Pazhavangadi thodu to

eliminate flooding problems in Thampanoor and Pazhavangadi areas.
Alternative – 1: Widening of Pazhavangadi thodu, wherever necessary and providing

adequate improvements for road and railway culverts.
Alternative – 2: Diverting some of the storm water from Pazhavangadi thodu at few
locations
2.12 Urban Storm Drainage
In an urban situation, storm water drainage is concerned with the accumulation of runoff
resulting from rainfall, which needs to be conveyed to an appropriate outfall as quickly as
possible, without causing inconvenience to pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and damage to
property. Urbanization is always accompanied by increased impervious areas in the drainage
basin, resulting in increased peaks and volumes of runoff. The traditional engineering


approach is to dispose the runoff quickly, but in the past three or four decades, storm water
management through onsite or offsite detention storage/infiltration, etc, is being practiced in
most countries. However, in the Kerala situation in general, such techniques may not be
practical due to high cost of land, unless strategic land allocation for such measures were to
form a part of the land use master plan itself.
In the present subproject therefore, it is suggested to adopt a strategy to convey the runoff as
quickly and efficiently as possible from and along the roads and along the natural water
courses. However, also as a strategy, wherever and whenever feasible, natural or created
storages, either transitory or long-term, above ground or in the soil, or infiltrated into the
groundwater system, would be adopted or encouraged, with the idea of reducing the adverse
impact of urbanization, through reduction of peaks and volumes of runoff, which incidentally
reduces the size and cost of downstream drainage systems.
2.13 Need for Design Criteria
At present, storm drains are designed, repaired and built on an ad-hoc basis and not based on a
comprehensive analysis that lead to an effective drainage network. This has often created
immense problems of inadequate carrying capacities in the downstream reaches, culverts,
bridge openings, and at outfalls.
It is therefore necessary to adopt a proper scientific set of guidelines and criteria for the
development of a comprehensive storm drainage network. Such design criteria should be
founded on sound scientific background and engineering principles. All modern urban
infrastructure systems such as water supply, sewerage, storm drainage and roads are planned
designed and built on such acceptable design criteria and standards. The criterion pertains
mainly to three aspects:
• Hydrologic Analysis
• Hydraulic Analysis
• Structural Aspects
2.14 Improvements to Pazhavangadi Thodu

Studied two alternatives to eliminate flooding in Thampanoor and Pazhavangadi areas and the
alternative 1 were selected.
In this alternative studied the adequacy of existing section of Pazhavangadi thodu from KWA
outlet to Kannanmoola confluence point. It is evident that even after desilting and lowering
drain bed level to a possible extent, the thodu has inadequate cross sections at various
stretches. In all these stretches widening of thodu is suggested, involving evictions and
acquisitions. Apart from this there are road and railway culverts with inadequate sizes, which
need to be either widened or additional culvert of the required size parallel to the existing need
to be constructed.


Site investigations, survey and design of Pazhavangadi thodu clearly showed the type of
improvements required and the extent of flood mitigation and other benefits to be accrued.
The proposed works in Pazhavangadi thodu are listed below:
1. In general removing the silt and debris accumulated over a period of several years, in a
systematic manner for the entire stretch of the thodu and minor repairs to existing RR
masonry wall. The depth of proposed desilting/deeping will depend partly on the depth of
accumulated silt but mostly on the criteria of providing different specific bed slopes in
different reaches. Desilting alone is found to bring down the water level by about one
meter. It is to be ensured that these slopes are strictly maintained, especially since all the
downstream structures are designed on the basis.
Also the construction of RCC partition structure at confluence point of Pazhavangdi thodu
and Pattom thodu to avoid back flow of storm runoff from Pattom thodu and causing
heading up of water in Pazhavangadi thodu at Kannanmoola.
2. Construction of additional pipe culvert across the railway track at Thampanoor railway
station (1700mm x 3 no.s) to avoid backflow of storm runoff from thodu to adjoining low
lying areas, opposite to railway station. Size of culvert is calculated considering 2 year
return period. Work will be taken up by the railways.
3. Laying of MS pipe by trenchless technology (pipe jacking) method at following locations

so as to by-pass the excess flows:
i. 1 no. of 1800mm dia MS pipe (60m) near Ganapathi temple
ii. 1 no. of 1900mm dia MS pipe (15m) parallel to the existing Uppilammoodu
railway culvert
iii. 3 no.s of 1600mm dia MS pipe (3 x10m) near Patoor road culvert at Pattoor
Pettah road.
4. Widening of Pazhavangadi thodu is required as per the design of Pazhavangadi thodu with
2 year return period.
2.14.1 Silt pits
In order to catch the silt and debris entering the thodu and for easy removal, it is proposed to
provide nine numbers of slit pits. The dimensions of the slit pits are 3m wide at top, 2m wide
at bottom, and 1m deep PCC paved. These silt pits are provided immediately upstream of:
i. Bakery junction
ii. Housing board-model school road
iii. Proposed open RCC drain near KSRTC bus stand
iv. Thampanoor railway culvert
v. Mele Pazhavangadi slab
vi. Uppilammoodu


vii. Uppilammoodu railway culvert
viii. Vanchiyoor box culvert and
ix. Pattoor road culvert
2.14.2 Fencing
In order to avoid solid waste dumping into the drains it is proposed to provide fencing at the
stretches where it is more prone to dumping of solid waste. These stretches are as under:
a) Thampanoor bus stand area
b) Putharikandam area
c) Pazhavangadi to Thakaraparambu
Alternative 2 :
In order to avoid land acquisition issues, as it is very difficult in acquiring in the prime areas
of the city along Pazhavangadi thodu, DSC1 has analyzed various options of diverting part of
the storm runoff from Pazhavangadi thodu. Options include diverting to bypass the
inadequate stretched of the todu and rejoining the same thodu on downstream of these critical
bottle necks. Other option is to divert the flow from the Pazhavangadi drainage system into
another drainage (catchment) system. This option would directly reduce the quantum of
storm throughout the length of the thodu on downstream side of the diversion point. In this
alternative diversion of runoff has been considered as under,
i. First Diversion is in between existing Railway culvert and the road culvert near Indian
coffee house at Thampanoor. A 2.3mx2.0 m pre-cast box drain is prosposed to be laid to
Vanchiyoor along the road running parallel to railway line on north side via over bridge
junction and rejoining Pazhavangadi thodu just after railway crossing at Uppilammodu
diverting 9 m3/s) This is at CH.8514 m(with reference to CH.11214m at KWA outlet at
Vellyambalam)
ii. Second Diversion is from U/S side of road culvert on Powerhouse road, near Southern
exit gate of Railway Station to Killiyar river along power house road (Diverting 10 m3/s).
This is at CH.8304m(w.r.t CH 11214 m at KWA outlet at Vellyambalam)


The third diversion which is from in front of Ganapathi temple to Thekkanakkara canal,
proposed in the earlier DPR has been removed as that flow of 2 cu.m/sec has been taken
count in the second diversion itself.
The quantity of diversion has been arrived at by carrying out various iterations so that there is
no need of widening of the thodu till the confluence point at Kannanmoola except after
Uppilamoodu Rauilway culvert.with these above dicversions the adequacy of exisiting
section of Pazhavangadi thodu from KWA outlet to Kannanmoola confluence point has been
checked with considering only desilting to the desired level. As the runoff from
Pazhavangadi thodu is diverted to differnect drainage zones, adequancy of receiving canal
namely Killiyar river has been checked and found to be adequate, considering return period 2
years. Details of Killiyar river with adequacy check are as under.
Kiliyar River
The Killiyar river originates from Nedumangad area. The river has a width of 20 to 25m
with bed slope of 1: 750 to 1: 1000 up to the city limit and thereafter maintaining a bed slope
of 1:2000 to 1:3000, before it merges with the Karamana river at Pallathukadavu. The
reaches in Maruthankuzhy, Pangode, Vivekananda Nagar, Jagathy, Iranimuttom and
OPallathukadavu are the important reaches inside the city. The river needs protection as it
passes through highly residential area. Major portion of the river reaches inside the city
have already been taken for stabilization. The left over areas need to be attended to.
The basin area of Killiyar river is approximately 80 sq.km(8000ha) and bounded between 8o
27’15” and 8o 39’45” N latitudes and 76o 57’15” and 77o 01’ 45” E longitudes. The upper
and lower portion of the basin are relatively under developed, while the reaches along the
eastern parts of the city are urbanized which can be expected to continue in the future, even
in aerial coverage of extent. Peak flows for the 2 year and 50 year return periods were
estimated using gauge data for the 16 year measured annual maximum instantaneous river
discharge series at Maruthankuzhy (74.25 sq.km)as well as by applying rational formula.
Analysis involved the use of Gumbel’s Extream Value (EV-1) probability distribution to fit
the data, and then to find the flood peak for the desired frequency, which in the present case,
is the 50 year return period.


3. Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital of the Indian state of Kerala. It is located on the west
coast of India near the extreme south of the mainland.
Thiruvananthapuram is located at 8.5o N 76.9o E on the west coast. The city covers an area of
about 214.86 square kilometers. The average elevation above sea level is 4.9m and the
maximum is about 80m. The city has a tropical climate. The mean maximum temperature is
34oC and the mean minimum temperature is 21oC. The humidity is high and rises to above
90% during the monsoon season. The city gets a moderate (compared to the State average of
3000mm) rainfall of around 1700mm per year.
3.1 Geography and Climate
Thiruvananthapuram is built on hills by the sea shore on the west coast. The Geological
Survey of India has identified Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation as a moderately
earthquake-prone urban centre and categorized the city in the seismic III zone.
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation lies on the shores of Karamana and Killi rivers.
Thiruvallam and Veli backwaters are part of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation.
3.2 Demography
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation was established on 30th October 1940. In

October 2010, the area of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation was increased
consequent to the merging up of Sreekariyam, Vattiyoorkkavu, Kudappanakkunnu, Vizhinjam
and Kazhakkuttam panchayats with the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. The
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation has now an area of 214.86km2 and a population
of 9, 57,730.
3.3 Tourism
Tourism has contributed heavily to the economy of Thiruvananthapuram Municipal

Corporation. Foreign tourists generally use Thiruvananthapuram as a hub to explore the
highly promoted tourism industry of the state of Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram functions as a
transit point for domestic and foreign tourists. There are a large number of tourist destinations
and tourist visiting Thiruvananthapuram are attracted more towards leisure tourism including
beaches, ecotourism and historical monuments.
3.4 Physical Characteristics
The Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation area consists of a number of rivers and

canals, both natural and man-made. Karamana and Killi are the major rivers passing through
the city. Both the rivers run from north-east to south-west skirting the city before meeting the
Lakshadeep sea. At the confluence with the sea there is an island and water lagoons. The
major storm water drainage collection basins in the city region are Veli and Aakulam lakes in
the north as well as Edayar and Vellayani lakes in the south. The T S canal


(Thiruvananthapuram-Shornur canal) also called Parvathy Puthanar runs along the north-south
direction connecting the Edayar and Aakulam lakes and continues to flow towards the north.
Geologically the city is characterized by sandy soil along the west coast and red laterite soil in
the eastern regions. Granite deposits exist in some part of the city especially at Peroorkada
and Thirumala.
3.5 Land Use Pattern
The land use of Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation has changed considerably in the
recent past due to urbanization. Various physical, social, political and economical factors have
played their decisive roles in forming the city’s land use pattern. The table 2 provides land
use pattern in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation.
Table 2: Land use pattern of Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation (2001)

Land Use Area (sq.km) Distribution (%)
Residential area 54.5 38.4
Commercial area 5.3 3.7
Industrial area 6.9 4.8
Public & semi public 12.2 8.6
Transportation area 9.3 6.5
Agriculture 43.3 30.5
Water course 3.1 2.3
Parks & open spaces 7.3 5.1
Source: Development Plan for Thiruvananthapuram, 2001.
The total area of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation is 214.86sq.km. The land
use of the newly added areas is mainly agricultural and residential with comparatively low
density settlements in fringe areas. Major use of urban land is classified under residential
areas which includes not only the area occupied by the houses, but also the coconut
plantations around the houses.
4. Environmental Setting
During the PPTA stage of the project, sub project activities were tentatively assessed and
presented in the report. Subsequently storm water drainage surveys and geo-technical studies
at the site were carried out. The layout and detailed design of the sub-project were finalized.
The environmental assessment of the sub-project is done as per ADB's Environmental
Assessment Guidelines and the Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (EARF)
approved for the project to ensure that the sub-project is complying with the existing


environmental regulations of the country and will not have any adverse impact on the
environment.
The main purpose of the KSUDP is to improve urban environmental conditions. As such there
are many environmental benefits to the proposed improvements to the storm water drains,
thodus and canals to Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. This section focuses on the
identification of potential adverse environmental impacts short and long term. It takes the
subproject components with identified consequences and considers them in the context of
receiving environment.
4.1 Air Environment
The sub-project site comprises almost the entire Thiruvananthapuram Municipal

Corporation. The storm water drains, thodus and canals are passing through thickly
populated and commercial areas of the city.
The Kerala State Pollution Control Board is maintaining ambient air quality stations at
Veli (industrial), which is about 3km from Thekkanakkara canal, SMV school, over
bridge (sensitive) which is about 750m from Thampanoor area, murinjapalam (sensitive)
which is about 1km from Ulloor thodu, Pettah (residential and others) about 2km from
Kannanmoola and 1km from T S canal as per CPCB norms. Ambient air qualities in these
stations are very much comparable with the ambient air quality in the project area. Relevant
details on ambient air quality for these stations are shown in table 3
Table 3: Ambient Air Quality at stations near the Project Site

Parameter Standard Observed value , µg /m3
µg /m3 Range Annual average
Veli (category: industrial )
Sulphurdioxide (SO2) 120 max. 5 - 40 15.79
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx)` 120 max. 8 - 35.4 18.43
Respirable Particulate Matter 150 max. 30 - 129 63.7
Suspendable Particulate Matter (SPM) 500 max. 37 - 144 84.33
SMV school, Overbridge (category: sensitive)
Sulphurdioxide (SO2) 30 max. 4.32 -10.4 6.74
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx)` 30 max. 10 -54.2 27.19
Respirable Particulate Matter 75 max. 26 -604 56.2
Suspendable Particulate Matter (SPM) 100 max. 32 -683 64.54


Parameter Standard Observed value , µg /m3
µg /m3 Range Annual average
Murinjapalam (category: sensitive)
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx)` 30 max. 9.9 - 170.4 25.87
Suspendable Particulate Matter (SPM) 100 max. 37 - 87 59.05
Pettah (category: residential and others)
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx)` 80 max. 10 – 43.3 25.37
Suspendable Particulate Matter (SPM) 200 max. 38 -110 57.4
Source: Water and Air Quality Directory 2010, KSPCB, Thiruvananthapuram
4.2 Noise Environment
The sub-project site is mainly in residential and commercial areas. Sound levels were
monitored as part of field investigation. The monitoring results are presented in the table 4.
Table 4: Noise level at Sub-Project Site
Location Observed Value, dBA(Leq)
Standard 55.0
North side 48.8
West side 47.0
South side 58.0
East side 55.6
Source: Field Study

4.3 Topography and Soil
Topographically, the sub-project site forms almost a plain land with slight slope towards
west. The area forms part of Karamana river and killi river basins. The site is covered
with sandy soil. The soil is highly porous and well drained.
4.4 Geology
The soil at the project sites consisting of sandy soil and sand is loose to medium dense
at all levels.
4.5 Climate


Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation region has hot humid climate and relative
humidity varies from 75 percent in January to 96 percent in June and July. The annual
variation of temperature ranges between 27°C and 32°C. The region experiences two
major seasons, namely the dry season and the wet season. The wet season is associated
with the months in which Southwest and Northeast monsoons occur. This wet season is
spread over a period of six months from June to November. The average annual rainfall is
1700mm. December, January and February are the coldest months while March, April
and May are the hottest.
4.6 Water Environment

4.6.1 Surface water
The project is for the improvement of storm water drains, canals and thodus. The entire
storm water network was studied in detail and this is the project area. The Kerala State
Pollution Control Board is having a water quality monitoring station at
Moonattumukku. The Moonattumukku station is located near the point where Parvathy
Puthanar confluence with Karamna river. The major canals in the Thiruvananthapuram
city such as Ullor thodu and Amayizhanhjan thodu empty into this river. The water
quality monitoring results are summarized and presented in table 5. The water quality at
Moonattumukku as well as canals and thodus in the proposed site are very much
comparable.
Table 5: Water Quality at Moonattumukku (Class E as per CPCB Classification)

Sl.no Characteristics Unit Observed Value Mean value Standard
1 pH 6.2-7.6 7.0 6 - 8.5
2 Conductivity µ mhos/cm 550-4500 1787 2250
3 Dissolved oxygen mgll 0-1.6 0.57
4 Biochemical mgll 8.6-20.4 8.6
Oxygen Demand
5 Nitrate (N) mgll 0.98-2.4 1.49
6 Amoniacal Nitrogen mgll 1.5-5.76 3.94
7 Total coliform no/100ml 2200-38000 17500 5000
8 Fecal colifirm no/100ml 900-22000 8541
Source: Water and Air Quality directory 2010, KSPCB, Thiruvananthapuram
4.6.2 Ground water
Ground water in the sub-project area occurs under confined and semi confined conditions.
The course and porous and layers of sandy soil form aquifer system. The main recharge to
groundwater takes place from precipitation. There are number of open wells exists in the
houses of project premises. These open wells are mainly used for domestic purposes. The
directional flow of ground water is mainly from west to east.
Ground water quality is also studied by Kerala State Pollution Control board. The one well
water monitoring station is located at Papanamcode near Kaimanam Azhamkulam road. The
details of ground water monitoring at the station is given in table 6.


Table 6: Well Water Quality at Pappanamcode

Sl.no Characteristics Unit Observed Value Mean value Standard
1 pH 5.1 - 5.4 5.2 6.5 - 8.5
2 Conductivity µ mhos/cm 49 - 420 235
3 Biochemical mgll 0.3 - 0.4 0.35 2
Oxygen Demand
4 Nitrate (N) mgll 1.9 - 2.1 2
5 Total coliform no/100ml 26 - 110 68 50
6 Fecal colifirm no/100ml 2 - 11 7
Source: Water and Air Quality Directory 2010, KSPCB, Thiruvananthapuram
4.7 Ecological Resources
The sites for the improvement of Pazhavangadi thodu diversion works, Thampanoor area and
Thekkanakkara canal are part of storm water network in the city. All these canals and thodus
are joining with T.S canal, an artificial canal, national waterway No.3 or Karamana river.
No forest or wild life sanctuaries are situated within 40km from the sub-project site. The site
is a plain ground with small bushes only. Coconut trees are very common around the project
area.
4.8 Socio – Economic
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation is the state capital and biggest urban area in the
state, so houses many state and central government offices, government and private
organizations and companies. The TMC is also an educational hub with world renowned
institution and research centers. The major population of the TMC forms the middle class
families and upper middle class families. The influx of people from other southern states and
northern states is more for the past 10 – 20 years.
4.9 Cultural Heritage
There is no enrochment to cultural heritage and other protected structures adjacent to the sub-
project area. On both sides of the storm water drains, thodus and canals there are residential
houses. In-between these houses there are religious centers such as temples, mosques and
churches. The world renowned temples, Sree Padmanabha Swami temple and Pazhavangadi
Ganapathi temple are situated in the East fort area. The improvement of the canals and storm
water drains proposed may not adversely affect the people visiting the temples.
5. Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation
The main purpose of the sub-project "Thiruvananthapuram Storm Water Drainage” project
under KSUDP is to improve the urban environmental conditions of Thiruvananthapuram
Municipal Corporation area. As such there are many environmental benefits to be gained
from the proposed sub-project. Though the subproject improves the environmental quality of
the city, there will be some adverse environmental impacts during its implementation and


operation stages. This section, proposes to focus on the identification of potential adverse
environmental impacts both short term and long term. Mitigation measures are proposed to
minimize the adverse environmental impacts identified. Recommendations for environmental
quality monitoring to be conducted during the design, implementation and operation of
subproject with agencies responsible for the monitoring are also drawn up.
The screening for environmental impacts is done in all the four phases of the project; viz.
planning, design, construction and operation and maintenance.
• Location Impacts. Impacts associated with the planning are mainly due to site selection.
Location impacts include on site biophysical array and encroachment/impact either directly or
indirectly on adjacent environments. It also includes the impacts on the people who will lose
their homes or livelihood due to the development of the proposed site,
• Design Impacts. Impacts arising from the design of the project, including the technology used,
scale of operation/throughput, waste production, discharge specification, pollution sources
and ancillary services,
• Construction Impacts. Impacts associated with the site cleaning, earth works, physical
construction related materials movements and works, machinery, vehicles and workers. It also
includes the erosion, dust, noise, traffic congestion and waste production associated with the
construction activities, and
• O&M Impacts. Impacts arising from the operation and maintenance of the infrastructure
facilities provided under the project. These include the impacts arising from the management
of operational waste streams and occupational health and safety issues of the workers
involved.
Based on the field visits of sub-project site and review of sub-project activities during design,
construction and operation phase, following issues have been identified.
5.1 Loss of Household, Business Premises or Livelihood
The sub-project has been designed taking into consideration buildings such as households,
business premises etc. No households, residents and business premises are affected and hence
no need of rehabilitation and payment of compensation. The site is part of the land fully
owned by the Government of Kerala.
5.2 Existence of Residences Adjacent to the Sub-project Site
There are residences on all sides of the storm water drains/canals of the sub-project site.
There is weld mesh protection to canals from disposal of municipal solid waste. There are
pucca roads near to the canals or crossing the canals at many places. The improvement to the
canals during construction stage may cause nuisance and health problems of these residences.
The layouts have been finalized giving maximum clearance to the residences adjacent to the
site. Greenbelt development on both sides of canals and roads, where ever land available have
been proposed to form a physical separation and visual screen to the development.


5.3 Ground Water Contamination Due to High Water Table
The ground water table at these sites is noticed to be between 1.5m to 10.5m below ground
level during the field study conducted. Adopting proper design criteria ground water
contamination can be avoided.
5.4 Existence of Surface Water Source
The subproject is for the improvement of storm water and canal network in the city so there
are chances of canals/thodus are affected due to storm water runoff. The canal water and
thodu water quality is likely to be affected due to storm water during rainy season. The sub-
project design includes diversion of storm water from other areas by providing diversion
drains/channel. However, it is ensured that sewage or sullage discharges from residential
buildings and commercial establishments to the storm water drains or canals leading to
contamination of waters has to be avoided during constructions stages.
5.5 Loss of Amenity to Neighbours
The improvements proposed to the storm water drains and canals may have no adverse impact
on the aesthetics as it is proposed to dispose the silt removed from the drains and canals to re
designated locations with all safe guard measures. It is proposed to develop a greenbelt
whereever adequate vacant land is available to form a physical separation and visual screen to
the development to maintain aesthetics. It is proposed to notify 25m on both sides of the
drains and canals as buffer zone or no development zone. For the improvements proposed no
trees in the site will have to be cut/removed. To minimize the impact, the design has been
finalized ensuring preservation of as many trees as possible for shading the development and
green belt around the periphery.
5.6 Silt Runoff from Construction Site
Silt and/or loose soil may be carried by storm runoff causing pollution of the nearby water
body. To reduce this impact, site preparation will be limited to the project site without
disturbance to adjoining vegetation and natural resources. Protection will be given to unstable
soil surface from high velocity runoff with interception drains and stabilization. Proper siting
of stock piles and protection of construction materials will be ensured at site through contract
agreement.
5.7 Social Conflict
Contractor may bring his own labours for construction activities which may affect the interest
of the local workers. A condition to engage local labours as far as possible will be included in
the contract to protect the interest of the local workers.


5.8 Noise, Dust or Hazardous Materials
The operation of generators, mixing plants, earth movers and the construction activities may
cause dust emission and sound pollution. It will be ensured that the plants and equipments
employed in the construction will comply with environmental standards. Regular wetting of
stock piles of sand and gravel will be ensured. Dust curtain will be provided to the
construction site.
5.9 Contamination of Land and Water
There is possibility of contamination land and water bodies due to improper disposal of
wastes by works in the construction camps as well as at the work site. The workers engaged in
construction activities may be provided with labour quarters/ settlement. The indiscriminate
disposal of waste by workers may contaminate the surrounding area of workers camp shed.
The contractor will be insisted by incorporating a condition in contract to provide proper
sanitation facilities at labour quarters/settlement as well as solid waste management facilities.
The workers shall be given adequate awareness on proper sanitation and solid waste
management.
5.10 Indiscriminate Disposal of Spoil/Silt
The silt/spoil generated during construction may cause contamination of the surrounding area.
Proper and scientific methods has to be taken for the handling and management of silt/spoil.
Proper stock piling of silt/spoil at site, examination of the reuse opportunities for silt/ spoil,
identification of sites for disposal of silt/ spoil, and proper covering of the disposal site on
completion of work, protection against spreading of dust during transportation, and adequate
maintenance of the transportation vehicles will be ensured by specific condition in the work
contract.
5.11 Exposure of Workers to Contaminated Site
There is chance of workers exposed to contaminated site and hazardous work environment
during the construction. Necessary provisions for providing appropriate protective gears such
as gumboots, gloves, and masks etc. training/awareness to workers regarding the potential
dangers and health effects and need for the use of protective gears will be made in the contract
document.
5.12 Forecasting Environmental Impact and Mitigation
The main purpose of KSUDP is to improve urban environmental conditions. As such, there
are many environmental benefits to the proposed sub project. This section, however, focuses
on the identification of potential adverse environmental impacts short and long term. It takes
the sub project components with identified environmental consequences and considers them in


the context of the receiving environment.
Water quality both surface and groundwater in adjacent water bodies will be critical site
consideration for subproject, which result in the desilting of storm water drains and canals and
proper management of desilted material and its disposal.
Ambient air quality is important in judging impact potential for construction activities. Data
for both particulate (SPM and RSPM) and gaseous pollutants (So2, NOx and NH3) is
presented in the IEEs.
Mitigation measures are proposed with recommended monitoring actions to be conducted

during implementation to minimize any adverse environmental impacts. The mitigation
measures will form the basis for an environmental monitoring plan during the implementation
stages of the KSUDP project.
Each components of the sub-project is subjected to thorough assessment and the impacts and
mitigation measures identified were summarized and presented in table 7.
Table 7. Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

No Impacts Magnitude of Mitigation Measures Responsibility
impact
1. Loss of on-site ecology Control of site layout to PIU, PMU
Permanent/low
or natural feature avoid or minimize loss
of natural features.
New and additional
trees are planted
wherever loss occurs. It
is proposed to develop a
greenbelt where ever
land is available on both
sides of storm water
drain.
2. Water quality in the Permanent/low Make sure that only the PIU, PMU
wells and ponds in the accumulated sludge or
vicinity may be affected mud will be removed
during desilting of from the storm water
storms and canals. drains or canals. It will
be ensured that the
present sewage/sullage
discharge into storm
water drains or canals
will be adequately
connected to existing
sewer lines.
3. Loss of amenity Permanent/low Provision of PIU, PMU
(aesthetics, property development of a buffer
values) to neighbors zone on both sides of


impact
the storm water drains
or canals with greenbelt
development and
landscaping to provide
physical separation and
a visual screen for the
development.
4. Loss of household, Permanent/low By the implementation PIU/TMC/
residence, business of the project no PMU
premises or livelihood residential building is
proposed to be removed
and there is no loss of
business or livelihood
anticipated.
5. Encroachment into Temporary/low Layout has been PIU/TMC/
cultural, heritage and finalized giving PMU
other protected maximum clearance
structures adjacent to the from the boundaries.
sub project, site. Visual curtains with
green belt will be
provided on both sides
of the storm water
drains or canals to
improve aesthetics.
6. Existence of residences Permanent/low Layout has been PIU/TMC/
adjacent to the sub- finalized giving PMU
project site maximum clearance to
the adjacent residences.
Greenbelt on both sides
of storm water drains or
canals proposed to
form a physical
separation and visual
screen to the
development
7. Existence of surface Temporary/low The construction PIU/TMC/
water and quality of activities will be PMU
canal may be affected limited to non rainy
due to storm over run. days and minimize the
slit runoff in the storm
water drains or canals
8. Trees existing in the site Permanent/low Design finalized PIU/TMC/
may be cut/removed for ensuring preservation of PMU
the development. as many trees as
possible. Double the
number of trees will be
planted as
compensatory
afforestation.


impact
Provision will be made
in the project cost for
compensatory
afforestation and
maintaining them for 3
years.
Design

impact
9. Inadequate methods for Temporary/low Design to include PIU, PMU
the handling of sludge appropriate sludge
removed from storm management and
water drains or canals disposal. A sludge
leading to management plan will
environmental pollution be prepared which
includes provisions for
on-site handling,
maximized re-use of
sludge, analysis of the
quality of sludge for
heavy metals,
locations for the
disposal of the sludge
will be finalized and
management measures
taken.
Construction

impact
10. Silt runoff from Temporary/low Implement Contractor
construction operations construction site (responsible
causing soil erosion management through under contract
and damage to water provisions in contracts for all sub-
quality to cover: site contractors)
preparation, which and PIU
minimizes causing any (monitoring)
disturbance to
adjoining vegetation
and natural soil
surfaces from high
velocity runoff
(interception drains
and temporary
stabilization),


impact
siting of construction
material stockpiles and
access routes to avoid
any disturbance to
adjoining vegetation
and natural areas;
disposal of
construction waste to
pre - determined
locations on a case-by-
case basis; recycled
use or landfill disposal
should be sought.
11. Road blocking and/or Temporary/low Implement Contractor
increased traffic during construction site (responsible
construction and management to cover under contract
laying/rehabilitation of to cover traffic for all sub-
sewerage carriers management and contractors)
nuisance minimization and PIU
(monitoring)
12. Noise and dust from Temporary/low Plant and equipment Contractor
construction activities employed in the (responsible
construction will under contract
comply with for all sub-
environmental contractors)
standards. Implement and PIU
construction site (monitoring)
management (through
provisions in contracts)
to cover dust and noise
management (including
water spraying and
scheduling of
activities). Dust curtain
will be provided to the
construction site.
13. Social conflict between Temporary/low Include a condition in PIU/PMU
workers from other area the contractor to
and local workers engage local labour,
wherever appropriate.
14. Contamination of land Temporary/low Proper sanitation Contractor/PIU
and water due to facilities will be
improper disposal of provided to the labour
waste by workers quarters/settlement and
at worksite
15. Exposure of workers to Temporary/low Provision of Contractor/PIU
contaminated site appropriate protective
during construction. gears (Gumboots,
gloves, masks etc.);


impact
training to workers
regarding the potential
dangers and health
effects and need for the
use of protective gears
16. Dust from unloading. Temporary/low Dust from unloading TMC/LSGD
operation inside the
disposal site may
generate dust emission.
The vehicle moving
areas at the work site
will be sprayed with
water.
Operation and Maintenance
No. Impacts Magnitude of Mitigation Measures Responsibility

impact
17. Sewer trench cave in Temporary/low Quality assurance of Thiruvanantha
hazards work to ensure puram
appropriate materials Municipal
and site finishing/ Corporation
drainage /KWA
6. Institutional Requirements and Environmental Monitoring Plan
The executing agency for KSUDP sub-projects is the Local Self Government Department
(LSGD) and appointed Project Management Unit (PMU) for this purpose. The implementing
agency for the sub-project will be the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. A Project
Implementation Unit (PIU) will be established in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal
Corporation to oversee the implementation of all components under KSUDP in the
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation area. The Thiruvananthapuram Municipal
Corporation will be assisted by a Design and Supervision Consultant. Operation and
management of the assets will be vested in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation.
An environmental specialist will be appointed to assist in the planning, design,

implementation and monitoring of KSUDP city components. During the planning and detailed
design stages of the project, the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation and PIU will be
responsible for incorporating the mitigation measures and monitoring plan in the contract
document.
During project implementation the environmental specialist will (i) review the lEE documents
(ii) inspect and ensure compliance with the mitigation measures proposed in the IEEs and
EMPs for all components of KSUDP and (iii) provide necessary training.


During the construction phase, the Project Implementation Unit of the Thiruvananthapuram
Municipal Corporation will monitor the performance of the contractor who will be contracted
to carry out all construction works in a manner that mitigates adverse environmental impacts
during the construction phase. Mitigation measures of a planning, functional, institutional and
procedural character will have been included in the tender documents and in the
supplementary activity plans. The PIU, with the support of the Project Management Unit
(PMU), will be responsible for monitoring and enforcement of the mitigation measures during
construction and operation phases.
During the operational phase, the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation will be

responsible for monitoring the performance of the infrastructure components.
6.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan
Major environmental issues identified are the air pollution, enhanced noise level, ground
water contamination and surface water contamination during the construction and operational
phase of the subproject. The ambient air, noise level, ground water and surface water quality
monitoring data available are presented in this report as background environmental quality
data. An environmental monitoring plan is prepared for the sub-project. The monitoring plan
presents the recommended environmental monitoring activities. The plan also identified the
agencies / institutions that are responsible for monitoring. table 8 provides a summary of
recommended environmental monitoring plan based on responses to potential adverse impacts
identified.
Table 8. Environmental Monitoring Plan

Project Type of Location Parameters to be Frequency Responsibility Preliminary
stage monitoring monitored costing
Ambient Construction Suspended Once in Contractor Rs.5,000

air quality site and the Particulate Matter three per test
vicinity (SPM) months
Sulphur dioxide
Methane
Ammonia and
Carbon monoxide
Noise 1m outside Sound level Leq., Once in Contractor Rs. 1,000
the boundary (day time and night three per test
time) months
Ground Project site pH Once in Contractor Rs.2,000/-
water Suspended solids three per
Construction
quality BOD months sample

Oil & Grease
Nitrates and
Coliforms


Project Type of Location Parameters to be Frequency Responsibility Preliminary
stage monitoring monitored costing
Surface Storm water pH Once in a Contractor Rs.2,000/-

water drain/ canal Suspended solids six per
quality where the BOD months sample
work is in Oil & Grease
progress Nitrates and
Coliforms
Ambient At the bank Suspended Once in TMC Rs. 5000

air quality of major Particulate Matter six per test
Storm water (SPM), months per site.
drain/canal Sulphur dioxide,
Methane
Ammonia and
Carbon monoxide
Noise 1 m outside Sound level Leq Once in TMC Rs.1,000
the boundary (day time and night six month per test
time)
After Completion of the project
Ground At the bank pH, Once in a TMC Rs.2,000/-

water of Storm Suspended solids month per
quality water BOD sample
drain/canal Oil & Grease
Nitrates and
Coliforms
Surface Storm water pH, Once in a TMC Rs.2,000/-
water drain/ canal Suspended solids month per
quality where the BOD sample
work is in Oil & Grease
progress Nitrates and
Coliforms
Constant surveillance
Tree On both Tree plantation TMC Part of

Construction and
plantation sides of the starts once the O& M

and Storm water improvement of Cost.
maintena- drain/canal works are completed
Operation
nce of and all and ensure constant

greenbelt available surveillance of the
vacant areas trees
6.2 Period of Implementation
Period of implementation of the sub-project is 40 months from the date of award of contract.
The estimate cost for construction of the 107 MLD capacity STP based on extended aerator


technology and its O&M charges for 5 years is Rs. 80 crores.
6.3 Benefits of the Project
The sub-project will improve the environmental quality of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal
Corporation area. When the proposed improvements of the storm water network system is
fully completed, the flash flooding of the low lying areas of municipal corporation areas will
be fully addressed. The residents of the city suffering from various insanitary environmental
conditions due to flooding of low lying areas will be safeguarded. Pollution of water bodies
like T.S canal and all the river lets and thodus due to disposal of untreated wastewater will be
mitigated to a larger extent on completion of the sub project. Overall cleanliness and sanitary
environment of the city will improve which will reflect in the socio-economic growth of the
city.
7. Community Consultation and Information Disclosure
During the project scoping exercise considerable dialogue had with the Thiruvananthapuram
Municipal Corporation Mayor, councilors and the staff. Focused public consultations were
undertaken during the site visits in the sub-project area. The details of the sub-project and the
mitigation measures proposed were explained to them. The details of the projects and the
environmental mitigation measures proposed were detailed to the councilors and officials of
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation during discussions at various stages of detailed
project report preparation. Further public consultations were held with people residing nearby
the storm water drains/canals, the project site. Community priorities were examined through a
baseline socio-economic survey in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation area. The
percentage sample house hold survey included matters on municipal service delivery priorities
for improvement. The public in general welcomed the sub-project provided that the sub-
project will not cause any nuisance to their normal living.
8. Findings and Recommendations
The sub-project as described above was found on the basis of environmental assessment
during the project formulation stage to be environmentally acceptable and able to proceed to
the implementation phase. Certain environmental issues noticed during the environmental
assessment were listed out and an environment management plan to address these issues were
also drawn up and presented in table 5. The main environmental issues noticed during the
environmental assessment are the impact due to handling of desludge materials. Proper
management system will be developed to handle the sludge. In order to meet the statutory
requirements, the following measures will be taken.
• The construction materials will be purchased from agencies/ manufacturers having valid
clearances from statutory authorities
• Equipments/plants/generators used in the construction activities will comply with the
environmental standards prescribed by agencies like KSPCB, CPCB and MoEF


• Consent to establish from KSPCB will be obtained before awarding contract for construction
• Sanction from the State Government will be obtained for cutting trees which are prohibited by
the Kerala Preservation of Trees Act, 1986
The mitigation measures proposed in the management plan has been incorporated in project
design and most of the mitigation costs are incidental to the construction costs. The
environment management plan and environmental monitoring plan will form part of the
contractual arrangements with construction contractor, or directly implemented by the PIU as
facility operator, as required work practices.
9. Conclusions
Proposed sub-project "Thiruvananthapuram Storm water Drainage” will greatly improve the
overall environmental quality of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation area. The
sub-project is considered not to have significant environmental impacts and classification B is
considered appropriate.
The Initial Environment Examination report has thoroughly assessed all potential
environmental impacts associated with the sub-project. The environmental impacts identified
by the study are manageable, and Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation will implement
the mitigation measures stated in the Environment Management Plan and Initial Environment
Examination reports. Therefore, no further environmental assessment is needed.
It is concluded that the proposed sub-project should proceed to the implementation phase,
subject to the mitigation measures and monitoring programs identified in the Initial
Environment Examination and the above recommendations.

Annexure - I
Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist
Instructions:
(i) The project team completes this checklist to support the environmental classification of a project. It
is to be attached to the environmental categorization form and submitted to the Environment and
Safeguards Division (RSES), for endorsement by Director, RSES and for approval by the Chief
Compliance Officer.
(ii) This checklist focuses on environmental issues and concerns. To ensure that social dimensions are
adequately considered, refer also to ADB's (a) checklists on involuntary resettlement and
Indigenous Peoples; (b) poverty reduction handbook; (c) staff guide to consultation and
participation; and (d) gender checklists.
(iii) Answer the questions assuming the “without mitigation” case. The purpose is to identify potential
impacts. Use the “remarks” section to discuss any anticipated mitigation measures.
Thiruvananthapuram Storm Water Drainage

Country/Project Title:
Sector Division:
Screening Questions Yes No Remarks

A. Project Siting
Is the Project area adjacent to or within any of the
following environmentally sensitive areas?
Cultural heritage site Yes Worship centres adjacent to the site.

Greenbelt development all along the
thodus of the site. The project is the
upgradation of storm water drainage
system of TMC
No The improvement proposed are for water
Legally protected Area (core zone or buffer zone)
bodies. However there is no declared
protected areas.
Wetland Yes The improvement proposed are for water
bodies.
Mangrove No No mangroves are there in the site. As
well as exist in the near vicinity.
Yes The thodus are connected to the T.S.
Estuarine
canal. Many of the thodus and T.S. canal
are having tidal impact
Special area for protecting biodiversity No Not applicable.
B. Potential Environmental Impacts

Will the Project cause…
Impairment of historical/cultural areas; disfiguration of No The project is for the improvement of

landscape or potential loss/damage to physical cultural storm water drain/thodus and there will not
resources? be any impairment of historical/ cultural
monuments/ areas. There will not be any
loss/ damage to such sites.


Disturbance to precious ecology (e.g. sensitive or No There is no protected area near the
protected areas)? project site.
Alteration of surface water hydrology of waterways No The project is for effecting improvements
resulting in increased sediment in streams affected by to the storm water drain in the city area,
increased soil erosion at construction site? particularly for avoiding flooding in low
lying areas of the city. So the project is
propose to desludge some of the storm
water drains to increase its cross section.
Deterioration of surface water quality due to silt runoff Yes Implement construction site management
and sanitary wastes from worker-based camps and through provisions in the contract.
chemicals used in construction? Minimize clearing and disturbance to
adjoining vegetation and natural areas.
Protection of unstable soil surfaces from
high velocity runoff by proper compaction,
interception drains and temporary
stabilization is proposed. Siting of
construction materials stock piles done
ensuring no block to access roads. The slit
runoff reaching the storm water rains will
curtailed during construction stage.
Increased air pollution due to project construction and Yes There will not be any air pollution during
operation? operation. However during construction
there is chance of dust emission from
construction materials as well as
construction activities. Action proposed is
to sprinkle water and thereby to avoid dust
generation. In case any equipments such
as DG set, mixing equipments etc are
used. It is to be ensured that the
emissions from these are within limits.
Noise and vibration due to project construction or Yes Adequate measures to minimize noise
operation? from construction activities will be made a
contractual condition. Noise generating
equipments will be enclosed.
Noise and vibration due to civil works may

occur. Strict conditions will be included in
the contract to make corrective measures
to minimize noise and vibration.
No blasting operation anticipated at the

site. Gravel and stones will be brought
from crushes and mines situated away
from the site.
Involuntary resettlement of people? (physical No The site is completely owned by Kerala
displacement and/or economic displacement) Irrigation Department/Kerala Water
Authority/TMC. As part of the project there
is no involuntary settlement of people is
proposed.
Disproportionate impacts on the poor, women and No Being a storm water improvement project
children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable it will have positive impact on all groups of
groups? the community. Some minor impacts that
may occur during the construction phase
will be same to all groups of community.


Poor sanitation and solid waste disposal in construction Yes Adequate measures for sanitation to
camps and work sites, and possible transmission of workers at site as well as labour camps
communicable diseases (such as STI's and HIV/AIDS) will be made a contractual condition and
from workers to local populations? this condion will be implemented strictly.
Adequate awareness will be given to

workers on possible transmission of
communicable diseases
Creation of temporary breeding habitats for diseases Yes A Site Management Plan as well as an
such as those transmitted by mosquitoes and rodents? operation manual will be prepared and
implemented so as to avoid influx of
insects, rodents, etc.
Social conflicts if workers from other regions or Yes The contractor will be issued with advice
countries are hired? to engage local construction workers as
far as possible.
Large population influx during project construction and No Not anticipating population increase during
operation that causes increased burden on social construction of the subproject and hence
infrastructure and services (such as water supply and there may not be any increased burden on
sanitation systems)? existing social infrastructure and services.
Risks and vulnerabilities related to occupational health Yes An occupation safety manual will be
and safety due to physical, chemical, biological, and prepared and implemented.
radiological hazards during project construction and
operation? The contractor will be asked to take all
safety measures during construction
stage.
Risks to community health and safety due to the Yes The storage of fuel for DG sets will be as
transport, storage, and use and/or disposal of materials per the rules of the land. No explosives or
such as explosives, fuel and other chemicals during chemicals are proposed to use at site.
construction and operation? Stone and aggregates for construction
activity will be brought from nearby mines
and crushes
Community safety risks due to both accidental and Yes All construction materials and components
natural causes, especially where the structural thereon will be stored in a protected
elements or components of the project are accessible to manner so as to avoid any injury to the
members of the affected community or where their members of the community.
failure could result in injury to the community throughout
project construction, operation and decommissioning? Action proposed to avoid accidental risks.
Generation of solid waste and/or hazardous waste? Yes Solid waste anticipated are the
construction debris and construction waste
apart from MSW generation at labour
camps and by workers. Adequate steps
will be taken to dispose this material along
with the MSW management system of the
TMC. The chances of hazardous waste
generation namely waste oil generation at
construction camps will be properly
handled.
Use of chemicals? No Not Applicable
Generation of wastewater during construction or No The waste water generation is anticipated

operation? only at labour camps

Climate Change and Disaster Risk Questions Yes No Remarks

The following questions are not for environmental
categorization. They are included in this checklist to help
identify potential climate and disaster risks.
Is the Project area subject to hazards such as No The natural hazard history of the area
earthquakes, floods, landslides, tropical cyclone winds, indicates no possibility of natural
storm surges, tsunami or volcanic eruptions and climate hazards and action taken to avoid all
changes (see Appendix I)? accidental risks such as earthquake,
floods, landslides, etc.
Could changes in precipitation, temperature, salinity, or No No changes in precipitation,
extreme events over the Project lifespan affect its temperature or salinity expected due
sustainability or cost? to implementation of the sub project.
Are there any demographic or socio-economic aspects No The area is a part of urban area where
of the Project area that are already vulnerable (e.g. high people of all socio-economic groups
incidence of marginalized populations, rural-urban are living.
migrants, illegal settlements, ethnic minorities, women or
children)?
Could the Project potentially increase the climate or No There will not be any considerable
disaster vulnerability of the surrounding area (e.g., change in traffic or housing area due
increasing traffic or housing in areas that will be more to implementation of the project.
prone to flooding, by encouraging settlement in
earthquake zones)?

Appendix I: Environments, Hazards and Climate Change
Environment Natural Hazards and Climate Change

Arid/Semi-arid Low erratic rainfall of up to 500 mm rainfall per annum with periodic droughts and high rainfall
and desert variability. Low vegetative cover. Resilient ecosystems & complex pastoral and systems, but
environments medium certainty that 10–20% of drylands degraded; 10-30% projected decrease in water
availability in next 40 years; projected increase in drought duration and severity under climate
change. Increased mobilization of sand dunes and other soils as vegetation cover declines; likely
overall decrease in agricultural productivity, with rain-fed agriculture yield reduced by 30% or
more by 2020. Earthquakes and other geophysical hazards may also occur in these
environments.
Humid and sub- More than 500 mm precipitation/yr. Resilient ecosystems & complex human pastoral and
humid plains, cropping systems. 10-30% projected decrease in water availability in next 40 years; projected
foothills and hill increase in droughts, heatwaves and floods; increased erosion of loess-mantled landscapes by
country wind and water; increased gully erosion; landslides likely on steeper slopes. Likely overall
decrease in agricultural productivity & compromised food production from variability, with rain-fed
agriculture yield reduced by 30% or more by 2020. Increased incidence of forest and agriculture-
based insect infestations. Earthquakes and other geophysical hazards may also occur in these
environments.
River valleys/ River basins, deltas and estuaries in low-lying areas are vulnerable to riverine floods, storm
deltas and surges associated with tropical cyclones/typhoons and sea level rise; natural (and human-
estuaries and induced) subsidence resulting from sediment compaction and ground water extraction;
other low-lying liquefaction of soft sediments as result of earthquake ground shaking. Tsunami possible/likely on
coastal areas some coasts. Lowland agri-business and subsistence farming in these regions at significant risk.
2
Small islands Small islands generally have land areas of less than 10,000km in area, though Papua New
Guinea and Timor with much larger land areas are commonly included in lists of small island
developing states. Low-lying islands are especially vulnerable to storm surge, tsunami and sea-
level rise and, frequently, coastal erosion, with coral reefs threatened by ocean warming in some
areas. Sea level rise is likely to threaten the limited ground water resources. High islands often
experience high rainfall intensities, frequent landslides and tectonic environments in which
landslides and earthquakes are not uncommon with (occasional) volcanic eruptions. Small
islands may have low adaptive capacity and high adaptation costs relative to GDP.
Mountain Accelerated glacial melting, rockfalls/landslides and glacial lake outburst floods, leading to
ecosystems increased debris flows, river bank erosion and floods and more extensive outwash plains and,
possibly, more frequent wind erosion in intermontane valleys. Enhanced snow melt and
fluctuating stream flows may produce seasonal floods and droughts. Melting of permafrost in
some environments. Faunal and floral species migration. Earthquakes, landslides and other
geophysical hazards may also occur in these environments.
Volcanic Recently active volcanoes (erupted in last 10,000 years – see www.volcano.si.edu). Often fertile
environments soils with intensive agriculture and landslides on steep slopes. Subject to earthquakes and
volcanic eruptions including pyroclastic flows and mudflows/lahars and/or gas emissions and
occasionally widespread ashfall.

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INITIAL ENVIRONMENT EXAMINATION

STORM WATER DRAINAGE

2.1 Sector Background 5

3.1 Geography and Climate 14

4.1 Air Environment 16

5.1 Loss of Household, Business Premises or Livelihood 21

5.4 Existence of Surface Water Source 21

5.5 Loss of Amenity to Neighbours 21

5.6 Silt Runoff from Construction Site 21

5.9 Contamination of Land and Water 22

5.10 Indiscriminate Disposal of Spoil/Silt 22

5.11 Exposure of Workers to Contaminated Site 22

6.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan 28

8. Findings and Recommendations 31

Table 1 Environmental Compliance Requirements of the Subproject 3

Table 2 Land Use Pattern of Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation (2001) 15

Table 3 Ambient Air Quality at Stations near the Project Site 16

Table 4 Noise level at Sub-Project 17

Table 5 Water Quality at Moonattumukku 18

Table 6 Well Water Quality at Pappanamcode 19

Table 7 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 23

Table 8 Environmental Monitoring Plan 28

Annexure 1 Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist 32

1. The Government of Kerala (GoK) is implementing the Kerala Sustainable Urban

2. KSUDP Investment Program implementation activities will be monitored by through a

5. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is proposed as part of this report which

8. Some minor negative impacts were identified in relation to construction activities

13. Mitigation will be assured by a program of environmental monitoring conducted during

1.2 Project Background

The main focus and thrust areas of the project are:

• Improvement and augmentation of water supply system

• Sewerage and sanitation

• Storm water drainage

• Roads and transportation

• Solid waste management

• Community infrastructure development

1.3 Regulatory Provisions

Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 1 of 34

The ADB guidelines stipulate addressing environmental concerns, if any, of a proposed

Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 2 of 34

Category C Components of subprojects unlikely to have adverse environmental impacts. No

The environmental compliance requirements of the sub-project are detailed in table 1

Table 1: Environmental Compliance Requirements of the Subproject

2. The Air (Prevention and 1. Consent to establish from KSPCB

3. The Municipal Solid Waste 1. Authorization from KSPCB for the

Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 3 of 34

During 1. The Water (Prevention and The contractor is required to obtain

2. The Air (Prevention and 1. Consent to establish hotmix plants,

Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 4 of 34

2.1 Sector Background

2.2 Storm Water Drainage System

2.3 Overall Study of Pazhavangadi Thodu

Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 5 of 34

2.4 Key Issues

Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 6 of 34

2.5 Drains Affecting Thampanoor and East Fort

Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 7 of 34

Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 8 of 34

2.5.2 Ulloor thodu

2.5.3 Pattom thodu

Consulting Engineering Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. Page 9 of 34

2.5.5 Thekkenakkara canal

2.6 Other Natural Drains