Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Acknowledgement i
Certificate ii
List of Figures ............................................................................................................................................................... 4
List of Tables ................................................................................................................................................................. 5
Objectives of the Project .......................................................................................................................................... 6
1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................... 8
1.1. What is EIA? ..................................................................................................................................................... 8
1.2 Evolution of EIA .............................................................................................................................................. 9
1.3 History of EIA in India ................................................................................................................................ 11
1.4 EIA for Construction Projects ................................................................................................................. 11
2 EIA Legislation in India ...................................................................................................................................... 14
2.1 EIA Notification, 1994 ................................................................................................................................ 14
2.2 EIA Notification, 2006 ................................................................................................................................ 16
2.3 EIA Legislation or Construction Projects .......................................................................................... 18
2.3.1 MoEF Notification ................................................................................................................................ 18
2.3.2 Explanations........................................................................................................................................... 19
3 The EIA Process ..................................................................................................................................................... 21
3.1 Stages of the EIA process .......................................................................................................................... 21
3.2 EIA Inputs to the Project Cycle ............................................................................................................... 23
3.3 Outputs of the EIA process ....................................................................................................................... 24
3.4 Analysis of Environmental Effects ........................................................................................................ 24
3.5 Forms of Impact Assessment .................................................................................................................. 25
3.6 Comparative review of EIA procedures and practices ................................................................ 26
3.7 Baseline Environmental Data ................................................................................................................. 29
4 EIA Methodologies ................................................................................................................................................ 32
4.1 Ad Hoc Methods ............................................................................................................................................ 34
4.2 Checklist Method .......................................................................................................................................... 35
4.3 Matrix Method ............................................................................................................................................... 37
4.4 Systematic Sequential Approach ........................................................................................................... 38
4.5 Network Method ........................................................................................................................................... 40
4.6 Spatially Based Methods – Overlay Method ..................................................................................... 41
4.7 Expert Systems .............................................................................................................................................. 44
4.8 Rapid Environment Impact Assessment (REIA) ............................................................................ 47
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5 Impact Prediction and Assessment .............................................................................................................. 50
5.1 Air Quality ........................................................................................................................................................ 53
5.2 Surface Water Quality ................................................................................................................................ 56
5.3 Soils and Groundwater .............................................................................................................................. 60
5.4 Biological/ Ecological Resources .......................................................................................................... 61
5.5 Sound and Noise ........................................................................................................................................... 64
5.6 Economic Analysis ....................................................................................................................................... 65
5.7 Social Assessment ........................................................................................................................................ 67
5.8 Water Balance ................................................................................................................................................ 68
6 Environment Monitoring and Management Plan ................................................................................... 71
6.1 Environment Monitoring Plan ................................................................................................................ 71
6.2 Environment Management Plan (EMP) ............................................................................................. 74
7 Case Study: Rapid EIA of an office Comlpex ............................................................................................. 77
7.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................... 78
7.1.1 Scope of Study ....................................................................................................................................... 78
7.1.2 Methodology .......................................................................................................................................... 78
7.1.3 Study Area ............................................................................................................................................... 78
7.1.4 Environment Quality Standards ................................................................................................... 79
7.2 Project Description ...................................................................................................................................... 80
7.2.1 Project Features ................................................................................................................................... 80
7.2.2 Project Location.................................................................................................................................... 80
7.2.3 Road Network ....................................................................................................................................... 81
7.2.4 Special Features of the Project ...................................................................................................... 81
7.2.5 Water Requirement ............................................................................................................................ 81
7.2.6 Source Of Water Supply & Storage Of Water .......................................................................... 82
7.2.7 Wastewater Generation .................................................................................................................... 82
7.2.8 Air Conditioning/ Heating ............................................................................................................... 82
7.2.9 Parking Arrangement ........................................................................................................................ 82
7.2.10 Power Supply ...................................................................................................................................... 82
7.2.11 Details of DG Sets .............................................................................................................................. 83
7.2.12 Details Of Building Materials ....................................................................................................... 83
7.2.13 List of Machinery Used During Construction ....................................................................... 84
7.2.14 Cost of Project ..................................................................................................................................... 84
7.2.15 Sewerage Plan .................................................................................................................................... 84
7.2.16 Sources of Pollution ......................................................................................................................... 84
7.2.17 Pollution Control Measures .......................................................................................................... 85
7.2.18 Landscaping ......................................................................................................................................... 86
7.3 Baseline Data .................................................................................................................................................. 87
7.3.1 Climatic Conditions ............................................................................................................................. 87
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7.3.2 Micro ‐ Meteorological Data: .......................................................................................................... 91
7.3.3 Ambient Air Quality ............................................................................................................................ 92
7.3.4 Water Quality ......................................................................................................................................... 98
7.3.5 Noise Levels ......................................................................................................................................... 101
7.3.6 Soil Quality ........................................................................................................................................... 102
7.3.7 Flora And Fauna ................................................................................................................................ 103
7.3.8 Land Use ................................................................................................................................................ 107
7.3.9 Socio‐Economic Scenario .............................................................................................................. 110
7.3.10 Traffic Density ................................................................................................................................. 110
7.4 Impact Identification and Assessment ............................................................................................ 112
7.4.1 Air Pollution/Emission into the Atmosphere ...................................................................... 113
7.4.2 Wastewater Generation ................................................................................................................. 117
7.4.3 Solid Waste Generation .................................................................................................................. 117
7.4.4 Noise ....................................................................................................................................................... 118
7.4.5 Socio‐Economic Condition ............................................................................................................ 118
7.5 Environmental Management Plan ..................................................................................................... 119
7.6 Conclusion And Recommendations .................................................................................................. 123
Bibliography ............................................................................................................................................................. 124
Annexure 1: Environmental Standards ....................................................................................................... 126
Annexure 2: Form 1/ 1a for Case Study Building ................................................................................... 132
Annexure 3: List of Collection of Animals and Birds in Zoological Park ...................................... 154
Annexure 4: EIA Notification, 2006 ............................................................................................................... 157
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LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE 1: GENERALIZED PROCESS FLOW SHEET OF THE EIA PROCESS ................................................................................. 22
FIGURE 2: EIA INPUTS TO THE PROJECT CYCLE ......................................................................................................................... 23
FIGURE 3: CONCEPTUAL MODEL OF IMPACT NETWORKS .......................................................................................................... 40
FIGURE 4: EXAMPLE OF OVERLAY METHOD (SOURCE: WATHERN, 1988) ........................................................................... 42
FIGURE 5: A TYPICAL WIND ROSE DIAGRAM ............................................................................................................................ 54
FIGURE 6: OXYGEN SAG CURVE OBTAINED FROM THE STREETER‐PHELPS EQUATION (SOURCE: CANTER, 1996) ....... 58
FIGURE 7: MASS BALANCE EQUATION FOR A COMPARTMENT (SOURCE: MCKAY AND PETERSON, 1993) ...................... 59
FIGURE 8: SIMPLE ILLUSTRATION OF ZONE OF INFLUENCE (SOURCE: EIA FOR DEVELOPING COUNTRIES, ADB) ............ 62
FIGURE 9: A TYPICAL WATER BALANCE ..................................................................................................................................... 69
FIGURE 10: SEISMIC ZONES IN INDIA .......................................................................................................................................... 80
FIGURE 11: THE WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF ANNUAL AVERAGE (1994‐2006) ..................................................................... 89
FIGURE 12: THE WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF WINTER AVERAGE (1994‐2006) ..................................................................... 89
FIGURE 13: WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF SUMMER AVERAGE (1994‐2006)............................................................................. 90
FIGURE 14: THE WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF AUTUMN AVERAGE (1994‐2006) .................................................................... 90
FIGURE 15: WIND ROSE DIAGRAM FOR POST MONSOON 2006 ............................................................................................. 92
FIGURE 16: FOREST VEGETATION OF INDIA ............................................................................................................................ 103
FIGURE 17: SCHEMATIC MAP OF WETLAND TYPES OF RIVER YAMUNA IN DELHI ............................................................. 109
FIGURE 18: NOX CONCENTRATION BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROJECT ............................................................................... 115
FIGURE 19: RSPM CONCENTRATION BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROJECT ........................................................................... 115
FIGURE 20: SO2 CONCENTRATION BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROJECT ............................................................................... 116
FIGURE 21: CONCENTRATION BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROJECT ................................................................... 116
4
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE 1: HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF EIA ............................................................................................................................. 10
TABLE 2: MAJOR DIFFERENCES IN NEW EIA NOTIFICATION 2006 AND OLD NOTIFICATION (1994) ............................ 16
TABLE 3: DIFFERENCE IN EIA AND SEA .................................................................................................................................... 25
TABLE 4: COMPARATIVE REVIEW OF EIA PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES .............................................................................. 26
TABLE 5: VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL ATTRIBUTES ................................................................................................................. 30
TABLE 6: EXAMPLE OF A CHECKLIST ........................................................................................................................................... 36
TABLE 7: SUMMARY OF SELECTED EXPERT SYSTEMS FOR EIA ............................................................................................... 46
TABLE 8: PREDICTION TECHNIQUES APPLICABLE IN EIA (SOURCE: ADAPTED FROM CANTER AND SADLER, 1997) ... 50
TABLE 9: SOCIAL DIMENSIONS ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN DURING THE PROJECT CYCLE ..................................................... 67
TABLE 10: A TYPICAL ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN ................................................................................................ 73
TABLE 11: A TYPICAL EMP ......................................................................................................................................................... 75
TABLE 12: PROJECT FEATURES .................................................................................................................................................... 80
TABLE 13: MONTHLY AVERAGE WIND SPEED AND DIRECTION ............................................................................................... 88
TABLE 14: MONTHLY AVERAGE MICRO‐METEOROLOGICAL DATA ........................................................................................ 91
TABLE 15: SPM .............................................................................................................................................................................. 95
TABLE 16: RSPM ........................................................................................................................................................................... 96
TABLE 17: SO2 ............................................................................................................................................................................... 96
TABLE 18: NOX .............................................................................................................................................................................. 97
TABLE 19: WATER QUALITY ...................................................................................................................................................... 100
TABLE 20: NOISE LEVELS ........................................................................................................................................................... 101
TABLE 21: SOIL QUALITY ............................................................................................................................................................ 102
TABLE 22: TRAFFIC DENSITY ..................................................................................................................................................... 110
TABLE 23: OVERVIEW OF THE POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF THE PROJECT ............................................................................... 112
TABLE 24: NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS ......................................................................................... 126
TABLE 25: AMBIENT NOISE QUALITY STANDARDS ................................................................................................................ 127
TABLE 26: INDIAN STANDARD DRINKING WATER ‐ SPECIFICATION (BIS 10500: 1991) ............................................ 128
TABLE 27: STACK HEIGHTS FOR GENERATORS ....................................................................................................................... 129
TABLE 28: LIST OF COLLECTION OF ANIMALS AND BIRDS IN ZOOLOGICAL PARK ............................................................. 154
5
OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT
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Chapter 1
Introduction
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1 INTRODUCTION EIA - Three core values
1.1. WHAT IS EIA?
Environment Impact Assessment or EIA can be defined as the study to predict the effect of a
proposed activity/project on the environment. A decision making tool, EIA compares
various alternatives for a project and seeks to identify the one which represents the best
combination of economic and environmental costs and benefits.
EIA systematically examines both beneficial and adverse consequences of the project and
ensures that these effects are taken into account during project design. It helps to identify
possible environmental effects of the proposed project, proposes measures to mitigate
adverse effects and predicts whether there will be significant adverse environmental
effects, even after the mitigation is implemented. By considering the environmental effects
of the project and their mitigation early in the project planning cycle, environmental
assessment has many benefits, such as protection of environment, optimum utilization of
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resources and saving of time and cost of the project. Properly conducted EIA also lessens
conflicts by promoting community participation, informing decision makers, and helping
lay the base for environmentally sound projects. Benefits of integrating EIA have been
observed in all stages of a project, from exploration and planning, through construction,
operations, decommissioning, and beyond site closure.
1.2 EVOLUTION OF EIA
EIA is one of the successful policy innovations of the 20th Century for environmental
conservation. Thirty‐seven years ago, there was no EIA but today, it is a formal process in
many countries and is currently practiced in more than 100 countries. EIA as a mandatory
regulatory procedure originated in the early 1970s, with the implementation of the
National Environment Policy Act (NEPA) 1969 in the US. A large part of the initial
development took place in a few high‐income countries, like Canada, Australia, and New
Zealand (1973‐74). However, there were some developing countries as well, which
introduced EIA relatively early ‐ Columbia (1974), Philippines (1978).
The EIA process really took off after the mid‐1980s. In 1989, the World Bank adopted EIA
for major development projects, in which a borrower country had to undertake an EIA
under the Bank's supervision (see Table 1: History and Evolution of EIA).
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TABLE 1: HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF EIA
Development of EIA
Pre-1970 Project review based on the technical/engineering and
economic analysis.
Limited consideration given to environmental consequences.
Early/mid – 1970s EIA introduced by NEPA in 1970 in US.
Basic principle: Guidelines, procedures including public
participation requirement instituted.
Standard methodologies for impact analysis developed (e.g.
matrix, checklist and network).
Canada, Australia and New Zealand became the first countries
to follow NEPA in 1973-1974. Unlike Australia, which legislated
EIA, Canada and New Zealand established administrative
procedures.
Major public inquires help shape the process's development.
Late 1970 and early More formalised guidance.
1980s Other industrial and developing countries introduced formal
EIA requirements (France, 1976; Philippines, 1977), began to use
the process informally or experimentally ( Netherlands, 1978) or
adopted elements, such as impact statements or reports, as part of
development applications for planning permission (German states
[Lander], Ireland).
Use of EA by developing countries (Brazil, Philippines, China,
Indonesia)
Strategic Environment Assessment (SEA), risk analysis
included in EA processes.
Greater emphasis on ecological modelling, prediction and
evaluation methods.
Provision for public involvement.
Coordination of EA with land use planning processes.
Mid 1980s to end of In Europe, EC Directive on EIA establishes basic principle and
decade procedural requirements for all member states.
Increasing efforts to address cumulative effects.
World Bank and other leading international aid agencies
establish EA requirements.
Spread of EIA process in Asia.
1990s Requirement to consider trans-boundary effects under Espoo
convention.
Increased use of GIS and other information technologies.
Sustainability principal and global issues receive increased
attention.
India also adopted the EIA formally.
Formulation of EA legislation by many developing countries.
Rapid growth in EA training.
Source: International Study of the Effectiveness of Environmental Assessment, final report,
Environmental assessment in a changing world, Prepared by Barry Sadler, June 1996.
[1]Definition of SEA: Policy tool to assess the environmental consequences of development
policies, plans and programs.
[2]Definition of risk assessment: An instrument for estimating the probability of harm
occurring from the presence of dangerous conditions or materials at a project site. Risk
represents the likelihood and significance of a potential hazard being realized.
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1.3 HISTORY OF EIA IN INDIA
The Indian experience with Environmental Impact Assessment began over 20 years back. It
started in 1976‐77 when the Planning Commission asked the Department of Science and
Technology to examine the river‐valley projects from an environmental angle. This was
subsequently extended to cover those projects, which required the approval of the Public
Investment Board. Till 1994, environmental clearance from the Central Government was an
administrative decision and lacked legislative support.
On 27 January 1994, the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), Government
of India, under the Environmental (Protection) Act 1986, promulgated an EIA notification
making Environmental Clearance (EC) mandatory for expansion or modernization of any
activity or for setting up new projects listed in Schedule 1 of the notification. Since then
there have been 12 amendments made in the EIA notification of 1994.
The MoEF recently notified new EIA legislation in September 2006. The notification makes
it mandatory for various projects such as mining, thermal power plants, river valley,
infrastructure (road, highway, ports, harbours and airports) and industries including very
small electroplating or foundry units to get environment clearance. However, unlike the
EIA Notification of 1994, the new legislation has put the onus of clearing projects on the
state government depending on the size/capacity of the project.
Certain activities permissible under the Coastal Regulation Zone Act, 1991 also require
similar clearance. Additionally, donor agencies operating in India like the World Bank and
the ADB have a different set of requirements for giving environmental clearance to projects
that are funded by them.
1.4 EIA FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
In civil engineering, construction is the building or assembly of any infrastructure on a site
or sites. A Building Construction project involves the techniques and industry involved in
the assembly and erection of structures, primarily those used to provide shelter.
Construction of Residential Complexes, Offices, Malls etc are examples of such projects.
Such projects have significant impacts on surrounding environment. Four major aspects of
the construction projects generally affect the environment: air pollution, water pollution,
noise levels and waste generation.
In case of a construction project a pollutant of prime concern is SPM/ RSPM during
construction phase. Other Impacts of other emissions such as SO2, NOx, and CO will not be
significant because the nature of sources is generally such that the emissions are
distributed spatially and as well as temporal. During operational period, the SO2 and NOx
emissions from DG sets (power back‐up units) and NOx and CO emissions from vehicular
tailpipe (particularly during peak hour) are major air polluters.
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The noise emitted from heavy duty construction equipments during construction period is
generally high. During operational period the major noise pollution source are the DG sets
and surrounding traffic activity.
Lot of Water is generally used during the construction phase owing to construction activity
and during the operational phase by the residents. The amount of water used depends on
the number of residents/ users of the building complex. Such projects put pressure on the
infrastructure of a city owing to their demand for water. Sometimes ground water table
also gets lowered as ground water is used to compensate for intermittent municipal water
supply either wholly or fully.
The waste water released is generally of moderate strength, however proper disposal to
municipal drains is essential to avoid contamination to ground water. Sometimes such
projects may even require an Effluent Treatment Plant. There is significant amount of solid
waste also generated from such projects owing to construction activities and by the
residents/ users during the operational phase.
Considering all these impacts, it becomes imperative to assess all the impacts of such
projects before the commencement of the project. After the assessment of these impacts,
one has to plan for the control and prevention of such impacts. Mitigation measures are to
be thought of. All these things, and more, come under the Environmental Impact
Assessment.
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Chapter 2
EIA Legislation in
India
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2 EIA LEGISLATION IN INDIA
2.1 EIA NOTIFICATION, 1994
The environment impact process was integrated into the Indian legal system in 1994 when
Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification came into existence. The objective of
the Notification was to push for more sustainable industrialization process in the country
after giving due consideration to environmental and social impacts. For doing so, the
notification imposed restrictions on setting up, modernizing or expanding any new project
or proposal without getting an environmental clearance from the government.
The notification specified the type of project/proposal that needed environmental
clearance and thus would have to conduct the EIA. The Act made it mandatory for all
projects listed in schedule 1 to get an environmental clearance from the Central
Government for setting or expanding any plant anywhere in the country. It also listed a
number of projects/proposals, which have been exempted from the environment clearance
process or public hearing.
The notification also made provisions for formation of an Impact Assessment Agency (IAA),
which essentially consisted of experts for review of the documents submitted to the MoEF
for clearance. It defined the roles and responsibilities of the IAA and has fixed time frame
for various stages of the environmental clearance process. The notification also made the
provision for the proponent to reapply in case it was rejected due to lack of data. It,
however, placed a penalty of automatic rejection in case of misrepresentation and
concealing of factual data.
Several changes were made to the original notification. The first amendment came within a
few months of the notification on July 4, 2005. Many more were to follow. The EIA
notification 1994 was amended 12 times in 11 years. While most of the amendments
diluted the process of environmental clearance process, there were some, which also
strengthened the process. Some of the key amendments are discussed as follows:
• Amendment on April 10, 1997: The process of environmental public hearing (EPH)
was introduced in the environmental clearance process. The SPCBs were entrusted to
conduct public hearing to get the views and concerns of the affected community and
interested parties for the proposed project. It was also entrusted with forming an EPH
committee to ensure fair representation in the public hearing process. This amendment
also made some changes with reference to the environmental clearance required for power
plants.
• Amendment on June 13, 2002: This amendment diluted the purpose of the
notification exempting many industries from the EIA process or from the entire
environment clearance process on the basis of level of investment.
It exempted pipeline and highway projects from preparing the EIA report, but these
projects would have to conduct public hearings in all the districts through which the
pipeline or highway passes.
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• A number of projects were totally exempted from the Notification if the investment
was less than Rs. 100 crore for new projects and less than Rs. 50 crore for
expansion/modernization projects.
• Most of the industries exempted from the clearance process had a very high social
and environmental impact even if the investment was less than Rs 100 crore. For
example, in case of hydel power projects, irrespective of the investment, there will
be social impacts due to displacement.
• No EIA was required for modernization projects in irrigation sector if additional
command area was less than 10,000 hectares or project cost was less than Rs. 100
crore.
• Amendment on 28th February, 2003: This amendment added a little tooth to the
notification. It took into consideration location‐sensitivity into the environment clearance
process. This amendment prohibited certain processes and operations in specified areas of
the Aravalli range.
• Amendment on 7th May 2003: The notification was amended to expand the lists of
activities involving risk or hazard. In this list, river valley projects including hydel power
projects, major irrigation projects and their combination including flood control project
except projects relating to improvement work including widening and strengthening of
existing canals with land acquisition up to a maximum of 20 meters, (both sides put
together) along the existing alignments, provided such canals does not pass through
ecologically sensitive areas such as national parks, sanctuaries, tiger reserves and reserve
forests.
• Amendment on August 4th 2003: This amendment was similar to the one in
February 2003 that tried bringing in location‐sensitivity in the entire environmental
clearance process. Any project located in a critically polluted area, within a radius of 15
kilometers of the boundary of reserved forests, ecologically sensitive areas, which include
national parks, sanctuaries, biosphere reserves; and any State, had to obtain environmental
clearance from the Central Government.
• Amendment on September 2003: Site clearance was made mandatory for green
field airport, petrochemical complexes and refineries. Moreover, the amendment added
that no public hearing was required for offshore exploration activities, beyond 10 km from
the nearest habitation, village boundary, goothans and ecologically sensitive areas such as,
mangroves (with a minimum area of 1,000 m2), corals, coral reefs, national parks, marine
parks, sanctuaries, reserve forests and breeding and spawning grounds of fish and other
marine life.
• Amendment on July 7th, 2004: It made EIA mandatory for construction and
industrial estate.
• 13th Amendment on 4th July 2005: The amendment provided that projects related
to expansion or modernization of nuclear power and related project, river valley project,
ports, harbours and airports, thermal power plants and mining projects with a lease area of
more than 5 hectares could be taken up without prior environmental clearance. The Central
Government in the Ministry of Environment and Forests may, on case to case basis, in
public interest, relax the requirement of obtaining prior environmental clearance and may,
after satisfying itself, grant temporary working permission on receipt of application in the
prescribed format for a period not exceeding two years, during which the proponent shall
obtain the requisite environmental clearance as per the procedure laid down in the
notification. The grant of temporary working permission would not necessarily imply that
the environmental clearance would be granted for the said project.
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There was a wide spread opinion that the EIA notification was not able to address all the
concerns and had several weaknesses which was making the entire clearance process
weak. This was the reason why Union Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) initiated
the process of bringing in some significant modifications in the environment clearance
process. A draft notification was published on September 15, 2005. This was put up for
public comment for a year and has recently been notified in September 2006.
2.2 EIA NOTIFICATION, 2006
The Union Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) notified the new EIA Notification in
September 2006 after putting up the draft notification for public comment for a year. See
EIA Notification, 2006 in Annexure 2.
The objective of EIA Notification 2006 is to address the limitations in the old EIA
Notification (1994). Therefore, various modifications have been incorporated in the old
Notification, which the ministry claims have been done after taking into account the
feedback from the different stakeholders. Some of the key differences in the New
Notification and the old one are listed in Table 2.
TABLE 2: MAJOR DIFFERENCES IN NEW EIA NOTIFICATION 2006 AND OLD NOTIFICATION (1994)
EIA Notification, 2006 EIA Notification, 1994
Projects in Schedule‐1 have been divided into two Proponent desiring to
1 categories, Category A and B. undertake any project listed
Category A project will require clearance from in Schedule‐1 had to obtain
Central Government (MoEF). Category B will clearance from the Central
require clearance from State Government. However, Government.
the state government will first classify if the B
project falls under B1 or B2 category. B1 projects
will require preparation of EIA reports while
remaining projects will be termed as B2 projects and
will not require EIA report.
This has the potential of being a good move as
decentralization of power may speed up the project
clearance process. However, it may be misused and
there is an urgent need to build the capacity of the
state regulators to deal with their new responsibilities.
2 Well defined screening process with projects divided In screening, the project
into two categories: proponent assesses if the
Category A: All projects and activities require EIA proposed activity/project
study and clearance from central government. falls under the purview of
Category B: Application reviewed by the State Level environmental clearance,
Expert Appraisal Committee into two categories ‐ B1 than the proponent conducts
(which will require EIA study) and B2, which does not an EIA study either directly
require EIA study. or through a consultant
3 Scoping has been defined in the new Notification. Scoping was not applicable.
However, the entire responsibility of determining the The terms of reference was
terms of reference (ToR) will depend on the Expert completely decided by the
16
Appraisal Committee. This will be done in case of proponent without any
Category A and Category B1 projects. However, the public consultation.
finalization of ToR by the EACs will depend on the
information provided by the project proponent. There
is however a provision that the EACs may visit the site
and hold public consultation and meet experts to
decide the ToR. However, if the EACs do not specify
the ToR within 60 days, the proponent can go ahead
with their own ToR.
The final ToR shall be displayed on the website of the
Ministry of Environment and Forests and concerned
State / Union Territory Environment Impact
Assessment Authority (SEIAA).
4 Public Consultation All Category A and Category B1 The project proponent has to
projects or activities have to undertake public write to State Pollution
consultation except for 6 activities for which public Control Board to conduct
consultation has been exempted. Some of the projects public hearing.
exempted include expansion of roads and highways, It was the responsibility of
modernization of irrigation projects, etc. Some of these the State Boards to publish
may have potential social and environmental impact. notice for environmental
The responsibility for conducting the public hearing public hearing in at least two
still lies with the state PCBs. Member‐ Secretary of the newspapers widely
concerned State Pollution Control Board or Union circulated in the region
Territory Pollution Control Committee has to finalize around the project, one of
the date, time and exact venue for the conduct of which shall be in the
public hearing within 30 days of the date of receipt of vernacular language of the
the draft Environmental Impact Assessment report, locality concerned.
and advertise the same in one major National Daily
and one Regional vernacular Daily. A minimum notice
period of 30 days will be given to the public for
furnishing their responses.
The public consultation will essentially consist of two
components – a public hearing to ascertain the views
of local people and obtaining written responses of
interested parties.
There are no clear guidelines like in earlier
Notification who all can attend the public hearing. The
use of “local people” for public hearing raises doubt if
the hearing can be attended by interested parties like
NGOs, experts, etc or is restricted to only locals. Is the
role of NGOs/experts limited to the sending written
letters/feedback to the PCB?
The Notification makes provision that Ministry of
Environment and Forest shall promptly display the
Summary of the draft Environment Impact Assessment
report on its website, and also make the full draft EIA
available in Ministry’s Library at New Delhi for
reference.
No postponement of the time, venue of the public
hearing shall be undertaken, unless some untoward
emergence situation occurs and only on the
recommendation of the concerned District Magistrate.
This was not a part of the earlier Notification.
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The SPCBs or Union Territory Pollution Control
Committee shall arrange to video film the entire
proceedings. This was also absent in the earlier
notification and may be considered as a good move to
ensure that public hearing is proper.
Unlike the earlier notification, no quorum is required
for attendance for starting the proceedings. This may
be misused as the
Source: Industry & Environment Unit, Centre for Science & Environment, 2006
2.3 EIA LEGISLATION OR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
As per the notification of MoEF dated 27th January 1994 and its subsequent amendments,
expansion and modernization of any activity or new projects shall not be undertaken in any
part of India unless it is accorded environmental clearance by the central government
fulfilling the procedures specified in its notification. As per the procedure, anybody who
desires to undertake expansion and modernization of any activity or new projects or
project listed in Schedule I should submit an application to the Secretary, MoEF, New Delhi.
The application shall be made in the Performa specified in Schedule II of the notification
and it should be accompanied by a Project Report which shall, inter‐alia include an
Environmental Impact Assessment Report, Environmental Management Plan and details of
Public Hearing as specified in Schedule IV prepared in accordance with the guidelines
issued by the Central Government from time to time.
2.3.1 MOEF NOTIFICATION
As per the notification S.O.801(E), dated 7th July 2004, issued by Ministry of Environment
and Forests, New Delhi, the Central Government made the amendment in the notification
S.O.60 (E) dated the 27th January 1994 and included the “New Construction Projects” and
“New Industrial Estates” under Sl. Nos. 31 and 32 of the list of projects listed in Schedule ‐I
which require environmental clearance from the Central Government.
The said EIA notification is not applicable for:
i. Any construction project falling under entry 31 of Schedule – I including new
townships, industrial townships, settlement colonies, commercial complexes, hotel
complexes, hospitals and office complexes for 1000 (one thousand) persons or
below or discharging sewage of 50,000 (fifty thousand) liters per day or below or
with an investment of Rs.50,00,00,000/‐ (Rupees fifty crores ) or below.
ii. Any industrial estate falling under entry 32 of Schedule – I including industrial
estates accommodating industrial units in an area of 50 hectares or below but
excluding the industrial estates irrespective of area if their pollution potential is
high.
18
2.3.2 EXPLANATIONS
ii. In the case of new Industrial estate which were undertaken without obtaining the
clearance required under this notification and where the construction work has
not commenced or the expenditure does not exceed 25% of the total sanctioned
cost, shall require clearance under this notification with effect from the 7th day of
July, 2004
iii. Any project proponent intending to implement the proposed project under sub-
paras (1) and (2) in a phased manner or in modules, shall be required to submit
the details of the entire project covering all phases or modules for appraisal under
this notification
19
Chapter 3
The EIA Process
20
3 THE EIA PROCESS
From a procedural perspective, EIA is a multi‐step process by which a wide range of issues
are taken into account to determine whether and/or under which environmental
constraints a project should be undertaken. The effectiveness of the EIA system is
dependent on the specific steps involved in reviewing project proposals.
3.1 STAGES OF THE EIA PROCESS
The stages of an EIA process will depend upon the requirements of the country or donor.
However, most EIA processes have a common structure and the application of the main
stages is a basic standard of good practice.
The environment impact assessment consists of eight steps with each step equally
important in determining the overall performance of the project. Typically, the EIA process
begins with screening. Screening is done to ensure that time and resources are directed at
the proposals that matter environmentally, and ends with some form of follow up on the
implementation of the decisions and actions taken as a result of an EIA report. The eight
steps of the EIA process are presented in brief below:
• Screening: First stage of EIA, which determines whether the proposed project,
requires an EIA and if it does, then the level of assessment required.
• Scoping: This stage identifies the key issues and impacts that should be further
investigated. This stage also defines the boundary and time limit of the study.
• Impact analysis: This stage of EIA identifies and predicts the likely environmental
and social impact of the proposed project and evaluates the significance.
• Mitigation: This step in EIA recommends the actions to reduce and avoid the
potential adverse environmental consequences of development activities.
• Reporting: This stage presents the result of EIA in a form of a report to the
decision‐making body and other interested parties.
• Review of EIA: It examines the adequacy and effectiveness of the EIA report and
provides the information necessary for decision‐making.
• Decisionmaking: It decides whether the project is rejected, approved or needs
further change.
• Post monitoring: This stage comes into play once the project is commissioned. It
checks to ensure that the impacts of the project do not exceed the legal standards and
implementation of the mitigation measures are in the manner as described in the EIA
report.
Overview of the EIA process is shown in Figure 1.
21
Source: The manual in perspective, EIA Training Resource Manual, United Nations
Environment Programme, 2002
FIGURE 1: GENERALIZED PROCESS FLOW SHEET OF THE EIA PROCESS
22
3..2 EIA INP UTS TO TH
HE PROJEC
CT CYCLE
In India, it is mandatory y to perform
m an EIA for aall major projjects. EIA haas become a ppart of
feasibility sstudies. An E
EIA may even n be importan nt while obtaaining financces for the prroject.
These cond ditions have resulted in aa careful integration of en
nvironmental review procedures
with variou us stages of tthe “project ccycle.”
A generalizzed project cycle can be d described in terms of six main stages:: 1) project concept;
2) pre‐feassibility; 3) feaasibility; 4) d
design and enngineering; 5
5) implementation; and 6 6)
monitoringg and evaluattion. EIA hass a role to plaay at each staage in the cyccle, as shown n in
Figure 2. M
Most EIA activ vities take pllace during th
he pre‐feasib
bility and feaasibility stagees, with
less effort d
devoted to im mplementation, monitoriing, and evaluation stages. In general,, EIA
should enh hance the pro oject and auggment the prroject plannin ng process.
FIGURE 2: E
EIA INPUTS TO
O THE PROJEC
CT CYCLE
Most EIA activities tak ke place durring the pree‐feasibility and
a feasibiliity stages, with
w less
effort devo oted to impleementation, m monitoring, aand evaluatio on stages. In general, EIA A should
enhance th he project an
nd augment the project p planning pro ocess. Early in the projecct cycle,
the EIA process involves site seelection, screeening, initial assessmeent, and sco oping of
significant issues. EIA must be an integral part of the projject feasibilitty study. A project’s
p
feasibility study shoulld include a a detailed asssessment of significantt impacts, in ncluding
gathering o of baseline information; the prediction and quan ntification off effects; and d review
of the EIA by a review
w agency (byy public and independen nt experts). SSubsequent to t these
ps, environm
initial step mental protecction measurres are iden ntified, environmental op perating
conditions are determined, and en nvironmental managemeent plans aree established d. At the
last stage in the feasibility stu udy, the monitoring
m needs
n are identified,
i a
and the
environmeental monito oring progrram and th he environm mental man nagement pllan are
formulated d.
3.3 OUTPUTS OF THE EIA PROCESS
The main goal of EIA is to influence development decision‐making by providing sound
information on environmental impacts and the means for preventing or reducing those
impacts. Three major outputs of the EIA process provide the primary means for integrating
the results of a specific EIA into the development planning decision process and the
concurrent environmental regulatory process: an identification and analysis of the
environmental effects of proposed activities (including their probability of occurrence); an
environmental management plan which outlines the mitigation measures to be undertaken;
and an environmental monitoring program which outlines the data that must be collected
in conjunction with the project. All three outputs are required for the EIA process to be
effective.
Environmental management is usually integrated into the project management system
associated with the construction, operation, and maintenance of the project. Environmental
monitoring is normally considered one of the responsibilities of the environmental
management system. When successfully integrated with the environmental management
system for the project, environmental monitoring can provide valuable feedback about the
effectiveness of environmental protection measures. Corrective action should be taken
where monitoring shows that environmental protection measures have been ineffective.
3.4 ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
EIA analysis has three sequential phases — identification, prediction, and assessment.
Identification involves characterizing the existing physical, social, economic, and ecological
environment and identifying components of a development project which are likely to
impact that environment. The impacts may be described according to the geographical
extent and time period over which they are expected to occur. During the prediction phase,
the project impacts are quantified using standards and by comparison with the findings of
other projects. Basically, the predictive function of an EIA is to forecast the nature and
extent of the identified environmental impacts, and to estimate the likelihood of the
occurring impacts. The assessment phase judges the importance or significance of the
predicted impacts. The results of the assessment phase, in terms of the beneficial and
adverse impacts of the proposed project and its development alternatives, are
communicated to decision makers. Population groups that may be directly or indirectly
affected by the project are identified. The assessment determines costs and benefits to user
groups and the population affected by the project. It also specifies and compares trade‐offs
between various alternatives.
24
3.5 FORMS OF IMPACT ASSESSMENT
There are various forms of impact assessment such as health impact assessment (HIA) and
social imp act assessment (SIA) that are used to assess the health and social consequences
of development so that they are taken into consideration along with the environmental
assessment. One of the forms of impact assessment is strategic environment assessment,
which is briefly discussed below:
Strategic environment assessment
Strategic environment assessment (SEA) refers to systematic analysis of the environmental
effects of development policies, plans, programs and other proposed strategic actions. This
process extends the aims and principles of EIA upstream in the decision‐making process,
beyond the project level and when major alternatives are still open. SEA represents a
proactive approach to integrating environmental considerations into the higher levels of
decision‐making.
Despite its wide use and acceptance, EIA has certain shortcomings as a tool for minimizing
environmental effects of development proposals. It takes place relatively late at the
downstream end of the decision making process, after major alternatives and directions
have been chosen (see Table 3: Difference in EIA and SEA).
TABLE 3: DIFFERENCE IN EIA AND SEA
Environmental Impact Assessment Strategic Impact Assessment
• Takes place at end of decision‐making • Takes place at earlier stages of decision
cycle making cycle
• Reactive approach to development • Pro‐active approach to development
proposal proposals
• Identifies specific impacts on the • Also identifies environmental
environment implications, issues of sustainable
• Considers limited number of feasible development
alternatives • Considers broad range of potential
• Limited review of cumulative effects alternatives
• Emphasis on mitigating and • Early warning of cumulative effects
minimizing impacts • Emphasis on meeting environmental
• Narrow perspective, high level of detail objectives, maintaining natural systems
• Well‐defined process, clear beginning • Broad perspective, lower level of detail
and end to provide a vision and overall framework
• Focuses on standard agenda, treats • Multi‐stage process, overlapping
symptoms of environmental deterioration components, policy level is continuing,
iterative
• Focuses on sustainability agenda, gets at
sources of environmental deterioration
Source: EIA Training Resource Manual, 2nd edition, 2002, United Nations Development Programme
SEA had limited development and implementation till 1990. However, after 1990, a number
of countries in developed economies adopted SEA. Some countries such as Canada and
Denmark have made provision for SEA of policy, plans and programmes separately from
25
EIA legislation and procedure. Other countries such as Czech Republic, Slovakia, etc have
introduced SEA requirements through reforms in EIA legislation and in case of United
Kingdom through environmental appraisal. While in New Zealand and Australia, it is a part
of resource management or biodiversity conservation regimes. The adoption of SEA is
likely to grow significantly in the coming years especially with directives by European
Union and Protocol to the UNECE Convention on Trans‐boundary EIA by signatory
countries (with a provisional date of May 2003 for completion).
3.6 COMPARATIVE REVIEW OF EIA PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES
TABLE 4: COMPARATIVE REVIEW OF EIA PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES
26
made by the authorizing government.
agency with respect to certain
criteria. In Canada, federal
authority determines whether
an environmental assessment
is required or not.
Scoping process is Scoping process in most Earlier scoping was done
comprehensive and involves developing countries is very by consultant or
consultation with all the poorly defined. In many proponent with an
stakeholders. In many countries including China, inclination towards
countries like US, Pakistan, etc. there is no meeting pollution control
Netherlands, Canada and provision for scoping. In requirements, rather than
Europe, the involvement of some countries like in addressing the full range
the public and their concern Nigeria and Indonesia, a of potential
are addressed in the scoping term of reference is followed environmental impacts
exercise. Besides this, for scoping while in some from a proposed
funding organisations such as countries like Ghana, Taiwan development.
World Bank, ADB and ERDB and Chile, a general
have provision for checklist is followed. However, the new
consultation with the affected notification has put the
people and NGOs during In countries where it is onus of scoping on the
identification of issues in undertaken, there is no expert committee based
scoping exercise. public consultation during on the information
scoping. Moreover, in most provided by the
developing countries, proponent. Consultation
scoping is often directed with public is optional
towards meeting pollution and depends on the
control requirements, rather discretion of the expert
than addressing the full committee.
range of potential
environmental impacts from
a proposed development.
Most reports in local language Most reports in English and Most reports in English
not in the local language. and not in the local
language. In some case,
executive summary is
translated into local
language.
A multi-disciplinary Lack of trained EIA Same in India.
approach. Involvement of professionals often leads to Preparation of EIA is
expert with expertise in the preparation of inadequate done by consultants.
different areas. and irrelevant EIA reports in Therefore, the selection
developing countries criterion for the
organisation is fees/cost
rather than the expertise
of EIA team.
Two tier of EIA review, One Poor review or monitoring. In India too, EIA review
conducted after the is not upto the marks. The
completion of EIA to check review agency called
the adequacy and Impact Assessment
27
effectiveness of EIA and the Agency (IAA) lacks inter-
second done before decision- disciplinary capacity. No
making. representation of NGO in
IAA, which is a violation
of the EIA notification.
Expertise in EIA: The The expertise in EIA is Expertise in this area is
International Association for slowly developing. In most developing.
Impact Assessment (AIA) and cases, students from the
other organisations developing countries go to
demonstrate that there are a the developed countries to
large number of individuals gain knowledge of the
with the capability to design, subject.
conduct, review and evaluate
EIAs from countries of the
North. The major portion of
teaching about environmental
assessment also takes place in
industrial countries.
Source: Compiled by Industry & Environment Unit, Centre for Science & Environment,
2006
28
3.7 BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL DATA
Before assessing impacts of any project on the Environment it is very important to have
Baseline Environmental Data about the project site. Baseline data is collected to have an idea
about the existing Environmental Setting of the area in terms of Physical, Biological and Socio
Economic Environment.
The major purpose of collection of baseline data are:‐
• To understand the project need and environmental characteristics of the area.
• To assess the existing environmental quality, as well as the environmental impacts of
the future developments being studied.
• To identify environmentally significant factors or geographical areas that could preclude
any future development.
Methodology
The study area for the proposed development is allotted first where the most of the potential
impacts are likely to occur. This area allotted varies from project to project and it is based on
prior experience in the area. However for practical purposes in case of construction projects it is
kept at 5 km from the center of the development site
Further, a buffer area extending from the site is also studied, though with a lesser degree of
detail. The baseline study and primary data collection is always carried out during non monsoon
season.
The following studies are conducted:
• The various environmental attributes are divided into primary and secondary
studies Primary attributes such as air environment, water, soil, noise, flora and
fauna, and micro‐meteorology are assessed by conducting field studies on‐site
monitoring and review of the past studies conducted.
• Secondary attributes such as land use studies, geology, physiological characteristics,
and socio‐economic environment have been assessed by literature review of
previous studies conducted by various Government publications etc.
A reconnaissance survey is then carried to identify the sampling locations on the basis of:
• Predominant wind directions in the study area as recorded by nearest IMD station
for air sampling.
• Existing topography; location of surface water bodies like nallahs, tanks, canals,
rivers, etc. for water sampling.
• Locations of villages / towns / sensitive areas for noise, air, socio economics.
• Accessibility of power connection and security for monitoring equipment, pollution
pockets in the area.
• Areas that best represent the baseline conditions.
29
The scoping and the extent of data generation are formulated with interdisciplinary team
discussions, criteria questions and professional judgment. For secondary data source, various
Government agencies are approached for obtaining information and relevant data.
The field data generated is used to:
• Identify extent of impacts on natural resources and nearby communities.
• Identify mitigation measures and monitoring equipment.
The various attributes usually considered for finding out Baseline Environmental Data in case of
a construction project are given in Table 5.
TABLE 5: VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL ATTRIBUTES
30
Chapter 4
EIA Methodologies
31
4 EIA METHODOLOGIES
Changes in the practice of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and advances in
information technology have greatly expanded the range of tools available to the EIA
practitioner. For example, map overlay methods, originally pioneered by McHarg (1971),
have evolved into sophisticated Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Expert systems, a
branch of artificial intelligence, have been developed to help in screening, scoping,
developing terms of reference (TOR), and conducting preliminary assessments. These
systems use comprehensive checklists, matrices, and networks in combination with
hundreds of impact rules developed by EIA experts. The global embrace of sustainable
development has made the analysis of costs and benefits an integral part of EIA. This has
forced the expansion of factors to be considered in traditional cost benefit analysis.
This chapter describes some of the simplest techniques and methods for EIA, and gives
information to help choose the most appropriate method for a given situation. Ad hoc
methods (section 4.1) are useful when time constraints and lack of information require that
the EIA must rely exclusively on expert opinion. Checklists and matrices (section 4.2 and
4.3) are good tools for organizing and presenting information. The systematic sequential
approach (SSA) (Section 4.4) provides a proven approach to “thinking through” the causal
chain: activity ‐ changes ‐ impacts ‐ mitigation. Networks (Section 4.5) are a formalized way
of representing these causal chains. Spatial analysis methods (Section 4.6) allow for the
presentation of the spatial pattern of environmental impacts through map overlays. GIS is
routinely used for analyzing and displaying spatial impacts. Rapid assessment techniques
(Section 4.7) have been designed to cope with need for quick assessments to deal with
rapid changes in many parts of the developing world.
The Role of Expert Judgement
Most methods and techniques for identifying, measuring, and assessing impacts rely on
expert judgement. In fact, many checklists, matrices, and models used in EIA represent
decades of experience accumulated by numerous experts. The experts themselves are
heavily involved in all aspects of the assessment — they are used to help identify the
potential for significant impacts, plan data collection and monitoring programs, provide
their judgement on the level of significance for specific impacts, and suggest ways of
reducing or preventing impacts.
Choosing a Method
EIA methods range from simple to complex, requiring different kinds of data, different data
formats, and varying levels of expertise and technological sophistication for their
interpretation. The analyses they produce have differing levels of precision and certainty.
All of these factors should be considered when selecting a method.
The EIA practitioner is faced with a vast quantity of raw and usually unorganized
information that must be collected and analyzed in preparation of an EIA report. The best
methods are able to:
• organize a large mass of heterogenous data;
• allow summarization of data;
32
• aggregate the data into smaller sets with least loss of information; and
• display the raw data and the derived information in a direct and relevant fashion
The needs of the target audience should also be considered when choosing a method. At
preliminary stages, proponents need to have clear information about alternatives, research
needs and feasibility. Appropriate methods, skillfully applied, can save time and money, and
can generate valuable support for a proposal. At later stages of comprehensive EIAs,
decision makers include those with a mandate to approve and set the conditions for going
ahead with a development. For an informed decision to be made, the decision makers need
to understand the nature and extent of potential impacts and the trade offs involved.
Whatever methods are chosen, the focus of impact assessment has evolved from generating
a list of potential impacts on selected environmental components. Today’s methods
consider the environment to be a dynamic, integrated group of natural and social systems.
Impacts occur over time and space. Some impacts are immediate while others are delayed.
Some impacts occur as a direct result of an activity; others occur as secondary or higher
order impacts resulting from changes in other environmental components.
In selecting assessment methods, it helps to understand two perspectives underlying the
utility of EIA. From the first perspective, EIA is a technique to analyze the impacts of project
activities, and is a complex and complicated procedure. The complexity is increased by the
diversity of the disciplines involved — social, physical, and biological. This perspective
holds that scientific experts should be responsible for conducting and reviewing EIAs, and
that the maximum possible quantification should be accomplished. This element of
decision‐making should be incorporated into the EIA process. From a second perspective,
EIA is primarily an opportunity to allow groups that are potentially affected — populations,
development agencies, and project proponents — to participate in the decision‐making
process. This perspective suggests that:
• Decision making should not be restricted to scientific opinions alone, but should
also reflect social and cultural viewpoints; and
• A key role of EIA is to identify and communicate potential impacts to the concerned
people and encourage rational discussion.
33
4.1 AD HOC METHODS
Ad hoc methods are not really methods as they do not structure the problem so it is more
amenable to systematic analysis. A good example of an ad hoc method is a team of experts
assembled for a short time to conduct an EIA. Each expert's conclusions are based on a unique
combination of experience, training and intuition. These conclusions are assembled into a
report. Sometimes this is the only required or possible approach. In other instances, when more
scientific methods are available, it is not sufficient to rely on ad hoc methods. Broad qualitative
information about factors useful in the comparative evaluation of alternative development
actions is presented. The information is stated in simple terms that are readily understood by
the lay person. No information about the cause‐effect relationship between project actions and
environmental components is provided. The actual impacts on specific environmental
components likely to be affected by the project or those that may require further investigation
are not identified. The method merely presents the pertinent information without resorting to
any relative weighting of importance.
This method is very easy to use, but does have a few drawbacks (Lohani and Kan, 1983):
• it may not encompass all the relevant impacts;
• because the criteria used to evaluate impacts are not comparable, the relative weights
of various impacts cannot be compared;
• it is inherently inefficient as it requires sizeable effort to identify and assemble an
appropriate panel of experts for each assessment; and
• it provides minimal guidance for impact analysis while suggesting broad areas of
possible impacts.
The problem with the exercise of expert judgement in an ad hoc manner is that it is
characterized by a process of assessment that can never be replicated, thus making it difficult to
review and critique the conclusions in the EIA. Environmental impact assessment usually
requires the collection and analysis of considerable information about the economic, social, and
biophysical environment. Methods are needed to organize this information for analysis and
presentation — ad hoc methods fail to do this in any meaningful way.
34
4.2 CHECKLIST METHOD
Checklists are standard lists of the types of impacts associated with a particular type of project.
Checklists methods are primarily for organizing information or ensuring that no potential
impact is overlooked. They are a more formalized version of ad hoc approaches in that specific
areas of impact are listed and instructions are supplied for impact identification and evaluation.
Sophisticated checklists include: 1) scaling checklists in which the listed impacts are ranked in
order of magnitude or severity, and 2) weighting‐scaling checklists, in which numerous
environmental parameters are weighted (using expert judgement), and an index is then
calculated to serve as a measure for comparing project alternatives.
There are four general types of checklists:
1. Simple Checklist: a list of environmental parameters with no guidelines on how they are
to be measured and interpreted.
2. Descriptive Checklist: includes an identification of environmental parameters and
guidelines on how to measure data on particular parameters.
3. Scaling Checklist: similar to a descriptive checklist, but with additional information on
subjective scaling of the parameters.
4. Scaling Weighting Checklist: similar to a scaling checklist, with additional information
for the subjective evaluation of each parameter with respect to all the other
parameters.
Varying levels of information and expertise are required to prepare checklists. Simple checklists
may require only a generalized knowledge of the environmental parameters likely to be
affected, and access to an information base. Alternatively, simple checklist methods can be
used to summarize the results of an EIA. Scaling weighted checklists are likely to require more
expertise to prepare.
There are several major reasons for using checklists:
• They are useful in summarizing information to make it accessible to specialists from
other fields, or to decision makers who may have a limited amount of technical
knowledge;
• Scaling checklists provide a preliminary level of analysis; and
• Weighting is a mechanism for incorporating information about ecosystem functions.
Westman (1985) listed some of the problems with checklists when used as an impact
assessment method:
1. they are too general or incomplete;
2. they do not illustrate interactions between effects;
3. the number of categories to be reviewed can be immense, thus distracting from the
most significant impacts; and
4. the identification of effects is qualitative and subjective.
Table 6 is an example of a checklist made for a construction project in New Delhi.
35
TABLE 6: EX
X AMPLE OF A CHECKLIST
4.3 MATRIX METHOD
Matrix methods identify interactions between various project actions and environmental
parameters and components. They incorporate a list of project activities with a checklist of
environmental components that might be affected by these activities. A matrix of potential
interactions is produced by combining these two lists (placing one on the vertical axis and
the other on the horizontal axis). One of the earliest matrix methods was developed by
Leopold et al. (1971). In a Leopold matrix and its variants, the columns of the matrix
correspond to project actions (for example, flow alteration) while the rows represent
environmental conditions (for example, water temperature). The impact associated with
the action columns and the environmental condition row is described in terms of its
magnitude and significance.
Most matrices were built for specific applications, although the Leopold Matrix itself is
quite general. Matrices can be tailor‐made to suit the needs of any project that is to be
evaluated. They should preferably cover both the construction and the operation phases of
the project, because sometimes, the former causes greater impacts than the latter. Simple
matrices are useful: 1) early in EIA processes for scoping the assessment; 2) for identifying
areas that require further research; and 3) for identifying interactions between project
activities and specific environmental components. However, matrices also have their
disadvantages: they tend to overly simplify impact pathways, they do not explicitly
represent spatial or temporal considerations, and they do not adequately address
synergistic impacts.
Matrices require information about both the environmental components and project
activities. The cells of the matrix are filled in using subjective (expert) judgement, or by
using extensive data bases. There are two general types of matrices: 1) simple interaction
matrices; and 2) significance or importance‐rated matrices. Simple matrix methods simply
identify the potential for interaction (see Table 3‐7). Significance or importance‐rated
methods require either more extensive data bases or more experience to prepare. Values
assigned to each cell in the matrix are based on scores or assigned ratings, not on
measurement and experimentation. For example, the significance or importance of impact
may be categorized (no impact, insignificant impact, significant impact, or uncertain).
Alternatively, it may be assigned a numerical score (for example, 0 is no impact, 10 is
maximum impact).
Leopold Matrix
Leopold et al. (1971) designed a matrix with a hundred specified actions and 88
environmental components. Each action and its potential for impacting each environmental
item is considered. The magnitude of the interaction (extensiveness or scale) is described
by assigning a value ranging from 1 (for small magnitudes) to 10 (for large magnitudes).
The assignment of numerical values is based on an evaluation of available facts and data.
Similarly, the scale of importance also ranges from 1 (very low interaction) to 10 (very
important interaction). Assignment of numerical values for importance is based on the
subjective judgement of the interdisciplinary team working on the EIA study.
The matrix approach is reasonably flexible. The total number of specified actions and
environmental items may increase or decrease depending on the nature and scope of the
37
study and the specific TOR for which the environmental impact study is undertaken. This is
one of the attractive features of the Leopold Matrix. Technically, the Leopold Matrix
approach is a gross screening technique to identify impacts. It is a valuable tool for
explaining impacts by presenting a visual display of the impacted items and their causes.
Summing the rows and columns that are designated as having interactions can provide
deeper insight and aid further interpretation of the impacts. The matrix can also be
employed to identify impacts during the various parts of the entire project cycle —
construction, operation, and even dismantling phases.
4.4 SYSTEMATIC SEQUENTIAL APPROACH
Prepared formats such as checklists and matrices are most useful during the initial stages
of EIA. Along with other information, checklists and matrices can help with the
identification of issues and impacts, as well as helping to develop the TOR for further
studies. Care must be taken with prepared formats as they may contain information that is
out of date or inappropriate for the jurisdiction or the environmental setting. In these cases,
use of the checklist or matrix may result in EIA documents that may be misleading,
incomplete or place the emphasis on the wrong causal relationships. Once the initial
assessment is completed, more systematic and scientific approaches should be used to
conduct the detailed EIA.
The systematic sequential approach (SSA) of assessment is a “scientific thinking through” of
the potential impacts on the environment with and without the project. SSA aims to
understand how environmental, social, and economic systems are interrelated, and how
they will react to human disturbances. SSA views EIA as a continuing source of information
throughout the project cycle. During the planning stages, broad economic goals and
objectives are seen to give rise to planned projects. In the SSA approach, project activities
are linked to changes in the environment. During the EIA, predictions of these
environmental changes must be made using various methods and techniques. Not all
predicted environmental changes are considered to be potential impacts. Levels of
significance of environmental change must be decided upon, and then assigned to impacts.
The assessment of significance is usually based on the values ascribed to environmental
components, as well as the degree of change. Once the assessment of potential impacts has
been completed, mitigative measures are prescribed to prevent, reduce, or otherwise
ameliorate the potential impacts. These measures will often alter the project design. They
may lead to project relocation, changes in industrial processes, introduction of pollution
abatement technology, and other measures. As the project moves toward implementation,
an environmental management plan must be put in place to ensure that planned mitigative
measures will be implemented. This plan also specifies monitoring that must take place to
determine actual impacts and to evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation measures.
Once the project begins operation, the project activities lead to actual changes in the
environment and actual impacts. Monitoring systems designed during the EIA provide the
basic information that allows for detection of changes in the environment. Based on
monitoring information and on the evaluation of the actual impacts and the effectiveness of
38
mitigation measures, the project implementation activities may be altered. In the long term,
monitoring result may lead to revised economic development goals and objectives.
This section focuses on constructing the causal chain: activity ‐ changes ‐ impact ‐
mitigation. The four basic steps are:
1. For each reasonable project alternative (that is, technology, size, site, etc.), identify and
describe the major project activities during construction, operation, and other phases.
ACTIVITIES LEAD TO CHANGES
2. Predict significant changes in the natural environment, and when uncertain, their
likelihood of occurrence, and magnitude or severity (Risk Assessment).
CHANGES LEAD TO IMPACTS
3. Changes, per se, are not impacts. Ask the question, “Who cares, and why?” about each
change in the environment. The answers are impacts on human health, welfare, and
ecosystems.
IMPACTS LEAD TO MITIGATION
4. Where it seems likely that the impact is adverse and unacceptable, devise mitigative
measures and project changes to prevent and/or ameliorate the impacts; and plan
monitoring to assure the implementation of the measures and to determine whether other
unforeseen impacts occur.
The SSA requires the development of conceptual models that represent the causal chain:
activity ‐ changes ‐ impact ‐ mitigation.
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4.5 NETWORK METHOD
Development of the conceptual models that represent potential impact pathways as causal
chains is at the essence of the application of the SSA. Network diagrams are one of the best
ways of representing these causal chains. Network diagrams (Figure 3) provide a means for
displaying first, secondary, tertiary, and higher order impacts. To develop a network, a
series of questions related to each project activity (such as what are the primary impact
areas, the primary impacts within these areas, the secondary impact areas, the secondary
impacts within these areas, and so on) must be answered. In developing a network
diagram, the first step is to identify the first order changes in environmental components.
The secondary changes in other environmental components that will result from the first
order changes are then identified. In turn, third order charges resulting from secondary
changes are identified. This process is continued until the network diagram is completed to
the practitioner’s satisfaction. The network helps in exploring and understanding the
underlying relationships between environmental components that produce higher order
changes that are often overlooked by simpler approaches.
FIGURE 3: CONCEPTUAL MODEL OF IMPACT NETWORKS
Networks or systems diagrams overcome the limitations of matrices by accommodating
higher order impacts. They are also far better at explicitly identifying the causal basis for
impacts. In addition, they are well suited to identifying the interaction between a number of
activities, components, and a single target resource. As an assessment tool, they are capable
of making qualitative predictions of the cumulative impact of a number of activities on a
single target resource. However, they neither formally integrate over the spatial and
temporal dimensions, nor do they integrate across target resources. While networks and
systems diagrams can be communicated well and are easy to develop using expert
judgement, scientific documentation of complex systems diagrams require a considerable
amount of human and financial resources.
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4.6 SPATIALLY BASED METHODS – OVERLAY METHOD
Shopley and Fuggle (1984) credited McHarg (1969) with the development of map overlays.
An overlay is based on a set of transparent maps, each of which represents the spatial
distribution of an environmental characteristic (for example, susceptibility to erosion).
Information for an array of variables is collected for standard geographical units within the
study area, and recorded on a series of maps, typically one for each variable. These maps
are overlaid to produce a composite (see Figure 4). The resulting composite maps
characterize the area’s physical, social, ecological, land use and other relevant
characteristics, relative to the location of the proposed development. To investigate the
degree of associated impacts, any number of project alternatives can be located on the final
map. The validity of the analysis is related to the type and number of parameters chosen.
For a readable composite map, the number of parameters in a transparency overlay is
limited to about ten. These methods are used in at least two ways in impact assessment.
One way is to use before and after maps to assess visually the changes to the landscape. The
other way is to combine mapping with an analysis of sensitive areas or ecological carrying
capacity. When used in this latter way, constraints on the level of development are set on
the basis of limits determined by the location of sensitive areas and by assessments of
carrying capacity. These methods are spatially oriented and are capable of clearly
communicating the spatial aspects of cumulative impacts. Their limitations relate to: 1) lack
of causal explanation of impact pathways; and 2) lack of predictive capability with respect
to population effects. However, some sophisticated versions can make predictions about
potential habitat loss.
Essentially, the overlay method divides the study area into convenient geographical units
based on uniformly spaced grid points, topographic features, or differing land uses. Field
surveys, topographical land inventory maps, aerial photography, etc., are used to assemble
information related to environmental and human factors within the geographical units.
Factors are composed by assembling concerns that have a common basis, and regional
maps are drawn for each factor. Through the use of overlays, landuse possibilities and
engineering feasibility are visually determined (McHarg, 1968).
The scale of the maps can vary from large‐scale (for regional planning purpose) to small‐
scale identification of site specific features. Overlays also are used in route selection for
linear projects such as roads and transmission lines. Their use facilitates screening of
alternative routes at an early stage, reducing the amount of detailed analysis required by
eliminating some routes early on.
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FIGURE 4: EXAMPLE OF OVERLAY METHOD (SOURCE: WATHERN, 1988)
For optimal results data for various characteristics must be of comparable quality; if the
data base for one characteristic is weaker than for the others it will be under‐represented
through this method.
McHarg (1968) demonstrated this technique with specific orientation towards highways.
His method consisted of transparencies of environmental characteristics overlaid on a
regional base map. Eleven to sixteen environmental and land use characteristics were
mapped. The maps represented three levels of environmental and land use characteristics
based upon “compatibility with the highway.” The approach seems most useful for
screening alternative project sites or routes before a detailed impact analysis is completed.
The method has also been used for evaluating development options in coastal areas and for
routing pipelines and transmission lines.
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Geographic Information System (GIS)
Traditionally, the overlays have been produced by hand. As a result of recent
developments, Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are becoming popular in situations
where the computer technology and trained personnel are available. Computers also are
used routinely to do cluster analyses of complex overlays.
A significant application of GIS is the construction of real world models based on digital
data. Modeling can analyze trends, identify factors that are causing them, reveal alternative
paths to solving the given problem, and indicate the implications or consequences of
decisions. For example, GIS can show how a natural resource will be affected by a decision.
Based on satellite data, areas that suffer most from deforestation may be identified and
analyzed on the basis of overlaying data on soil types, the species required, the likely
growth and yield, and the impact of regulatory measures applicable to the area (Asian
Development Bank, 1991). The timing, types, and scale of timber management practices
needed may then be indicated, specifying the consequences. In agriculture, the potential
loss of natural vegetation to expanded rice cultivation can be quantified, based on economic
evaluation. Where conventional change detection techniques do not yield satisfactory
results, a GIS approach can indicate the change in quantitative terms (for example, in new
area development). The impact of development plans on the environment can be assessed
by integrating data on land use with topographic and geologic information. Similarly,
satellite imagery can periodically be used to update maps of irrigated land. The spectral
features of irrigated and non‐irrigated fields can be combined with other data on the fields
to derive estimates of demand for irrigation water and devise land management plans. GIS
can be used to assess the risk of drought in choosing areas for rain‐fed crops. In fisheries,
based on past trends of population dynamics in a given area, long term consequences of
restocking programs on the environment may be indicated. GIS is also used in determining
optimal routes for communications, irrigation, and road maintenance. Network modeling to
connect various data bases can also be done.
Another important application of GIS is in statistical analysis of features (for example, the
area of forest water body or the length of rivers, canals, and roads). An area can be
statistically described, for example, by soil type. The length of a road can be classified in
terms of its condition. It is also common to delineate what is known as “buffer zones”
around points, lines, or polygons to indicate selected areas for special attention. For
example, the land surrounding a reserve forest can be studied for determining the most
appropriate land use. The “buffer zone” could be overlayed with an ideal land capability
layer to choose the best possible use.
A “ranking method” can be used to evaluate lands suitable for cultivation of particular
crops. The method involves the use of several thematic maps from satellite data as well as
non‐image data. For example, land resources can be evaluated for paddy field development.
Data on land conditions, land productivity, and soil moisture conditions need to be
collected and evaluated so that suitable areas for paddy cultivation can be identified.
GIS is a powerful management tool for resource managers and planners. Its applications are
limited only by the quality, quantity, and coverage of data that are fed into the system.
Some of the standard GIS applications are integrating maps made at different scales;
overlaying different types of maps which show different attributes; and identifying
required areas within a given distance from roads or rivers. For instance, by overlaying
maps of vegetation and soils, a new map on land suitability can be generated and the
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impact of proposed projects can be studied. The farm‐to‐market transport economics can
be considered in determining the planting of specific areas on a commercial scale. Similarly,
the most favorable zones for the development of shrimp farming outside mangroves can be
located.
4.7 EXPERT SYSTEMS
The various methods, approaches and techniques for identifying, measuring, and assessing
impacts all have two aspects in common. First, they are designed to deal with the
considerable amount of information that must be processed and analyzed as a part of an
environmental impact assessment (EIA). Second, they rely on expert judgement. The
challenge of collecting, processing, analyzing, and reporting information can be partially
met by use of various computer and information technologies. The use of predictive
computer models is becoming more prevalent. The use of geographic information systems
(GIS) for handling spatial data is also becoming more frequent where there are adequate
personnel skills and financial resources to acquire the necessary data. In most cases,
however, environmental problem solving is conceptual and cannot always be reduced to
quantitative analysis (that is, modeling). Often, available information is incomplete,
subjective, and inconsistent.
Expert systems are promising technologies that manage information demands and provide
required expertise. They thus seem well suited to many of the tasks associated with EIA.
Additional advantages of using expert systems for EIA are:
• expert systems help users cope with large volumes of EIA work;
• expert systems deliver EIA expertise to the non‐expert;
• expert systems enhance user accountability for decisions reached; and
• expert systems provide a structured approach to EIA.
Expert Systems Fundamentals
The general structure of an expert system can be described in terms of six main
components:
• The external data acquisition systems, which provide the input data for the specific
application. These systems may be manual (that is, data must be collected and
entered by hand) or automated (for example, remote sensing);
• The knowledge base, which is a collection of domain specific knowledge usually
represented as rules based on IF‐THEN logic;
• External application programs, with which the system exchanges information and
data. For example, computer simulation models may provide quantitative estimates
of air and water quality parameters or GIS may provide spatial data on the location
and characteristics of key environmental components. Reports from expert systems
may be exported to common word processing or database software programs;
• The user, who controls the system, inputs information, selects options, and
generates reports;
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• The user interface, which is the means by which the user communicates with other
components. Most user interfaces are menu driven and have a number of display
and reporting features; and
• The inference engine, which is the reasoning mechanism that manipulates the rules
in the knowledge base to provide conclusions. These specific conclusions depend on
the information supplied by the user, external data acquisition systems, and
external programs.
Applications of Expert Systems to EIA
Gray and Stokoe (1988) reviewed a number of expert systems and decision support tools in
environmental assessment and natural resource management. They found only a few
examples of systems applied specifically to EIA; however they found many more applied to
natural resources management. Systems were identified for forestry, hazardous wastes,
risk assessment, weather forecasting and a number for specialized applications that were
difficult to categorize. A number of promising directions in the environmental expert
systems being developed are:
• more “intelligent” (that is, AI‐based) user interfaces, employing colored graphics,
object oriented techniques, window systems, flexible help functions on different
user levels, explanation facilities and eventually performing some natural language
processing;
• “Intelligent” user access support and orientation on environmental databases (for
example, literature of chemical substances), as well as more efficient database
search techniques;
• training and instructional systems allowing for an efficient transfer of
environmental expert knowledge; and
• straightforward diagnostic/interpretation expert systems for well‐bounded
domains, which are well understood in AI, and where powerful tools are already
available, as problem solving aids (for example, in early stages of the EIA process).
Hushon (1990) identified sixty‐eight applications of expert systems to a wide range of
environmental problems. Again, very few of those identified were useful as EIA tools. By the
early 1990s, a number of expert systems for environmental assessment had been
developed or were in the prototype phase. Geraghty (1993) reported on eleven expert
systems for environmental assessment, of which the majority were in the prototype phase.
Most recently, Beanlands (1994) prepared a bibliography listing expert system applications
specific to EIA. Although the theoretical benefits of expert systems for EIA have been
known for some time, to date there are still only a small number of these systems. A
number of limitations to using expert systems for EIA help to explain this dearth:
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TABLE 7: SUMMARY OF SELECTED EXPERT SYSTEMS FOR EIA
Name Description
SCREENERÔ EIA screening tool
Calyx EA determines potential environmental effects
of projects (no GIS)
Calyx GIS determines potential environmental effects
of projects using GIS
ORBI expert system for EIA that produces graphic
outputs
IMPACT EIA screening tool
Calyx ADB determines potential environmental effects
of projects
MEXSES EIA screening tool
Computer Assisted EIA information retrieval system
EIAMAN provides filing and retrieval systems for all
development project documents
Expert systems are computer programs that perform difficult, specialized tasks at the level
of a human expert. They have been implemented in a variety of applications, including
games (for example, chess) and public works projects (for example, wastewater
engineering). The heuristic reasoning capabilities of expert systems technology seem well
suited to many of the tasks associated with undertaking an EIA, however, to date, only a
few such systems have been developed. Most of these are in the prototype phase. Some of
those systems developed are fully operational at a large number of sites. Until now, the
development of expert systems in developing countries has been funded by International
Assistance Agencies, in particular, the Asian Development Bank. While there is interest in
EIA expert systems in developing countries, the degree to which these systems will be
adopted is uncertain. The degree to which expert systems will be used depends on whether
or not practitioners in developing countries can acquire the necessary skills to effectively
use the systems.
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4.8 RAPID ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT (REIA)
In the early 1980s, the World Health Organization (WHO) developed a manual for rapid
assessment of sources of land, air, and water pollution (WHO, 1982). The rapid assessment
procedure has been found useful in developing countries in the design of environmental
control strategies using relatively modest financial and human resources (Economopoulos,
1993a). Part I of the latest revision of the procedure (Economopoulos, 1993a) updates the
rapid pollution assessment factors and introduces air, water, and solid waste inventory and
control models. Part II (Economopoulos, 1993b) provides guidance on how to assess
current air and water quality and how to identify land pollution problems. It also describes
how to formulate alternative control strategies and how to evaluate their effectiveness.
The purpose of Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment (REIA) is to assist in the decision
making process and to ensure that the project under consideration are environmentally
sound and sustainable. REIA identifies the ways of improving project environmentally by
preventing, minimizing, mitigating or compensating for adverse impacts.
Urban development projects including housing and office complexes do have the potential
in altering environmental resources of any urban area. They cause stress on local
environmental assets of the urban area and could become the potential source for limiting
the growth of the city. Unplanned construction and operation of such projects usually result
in impacts on various facets of environment.
Keeping above issues under considerations, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
study is conducted which incorporates into development and planning process, a plan for
environmental protection and conservation. The procedure identifies the possible positive
and negative impacts on the environment likely to emanate as a result of construction and
operation of a project. The EIA thus, provides for a plan which, upon implementation, will
reduce or offset the negative impacts of a project resulting in a minimum level of
environmental degradation. This minimization may be a result of implementation of a
project modifications or environmental protection measures which simply reduces the
severity or number or magnitude of negative impacts. The plan may also result in
utilization of positive impacts for enhancement measures which offset negative impacts.
To measure the level of plan implementation and the degree of effectiveness of the above
environmental protection provisions, the EIA provides a monitoring programme. This
programme is so designed that it identifies the parameters of uncertainty and measures the
related impacts.
It is necessary that there is close integration of EIA with various aspects of a project
including financial and engineering aspects which ensures environmental consideration are
given due weight in project selection, site design and operation.
Analysis of past experiences indicate that it is necessary to examine a number of problem
areas in order to ensure that environmental concerns can be effectively integrated in the
development process.
Any activity involving construction and operation is expected to cause impacts on
surrounding environment. The impacts may be adverse or beneficial, short term or long
term, and reversible or irreversible. In order to assess the significance of impacts, various
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steps that are used in conducting an REIA within core and buffer zone around the proposed
project construction site are divided into the following phases:
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Chapter 5
Impact Prediction
and Assessment
49
5 IMPACT PREDICTION AND ASSESSMENT
The scientific and technical credibility of an environmental impact assessment (EIA) relies
on the ability of the EIA practitioners to estimate the nature, extent, and magnitude of
change in environmental components that may result from project activities. Information
about predicted changes is needed for assigning impact significance, prescribing mitigation
measures, and designing and developing environmental management plans and monitoring
programs. The more accurate the predictions, the more confident the EIA practitioner will
be in prescribing specific measures to eliminate or minimize the adverse impacts of
development projects.
Predictive Methods
In their review of EIA methods, Canter and Sadler (1997) provide a listing of prediction
techniques applicable to different aspects of EIA (Table 8). Canter (1996) provides an
excellent overview, based on American experience, of many of these prediction techniques.
In many EIA applications, these basic prediction techniques are actually combined. This is
particularly true when using computerized modeling software for specific applications, as
the application of a computer model usually requires collection of environmental
information to set baseline values for the model’s variables and to determine the values for
model’s parameters.
TABLE 8: PREDICTION TECHNIQUES APPLICABLE IN EIA (SOURCE: ADAPTED FROM CANTER AND
SADLER, 1997)
Air 1. Emission Inventory
2. Urban area statistical models
3. Receptor monitoring
4. Box Models
5. Single to multiple source dispersion
models
6. Monitoring from analogs
7. Air quality indices
Surface Water 1. Point and Non Point waste loads
2. QUAL‐IIE and many other quantitative
models
3. Segment box models
4. Waste load allocations
5. Water quality indices
6. Statistical models for selected parameters
7. Water usage studies
Ground Water 1. Pollution source surveys
2. Soil and/or ground water vulnerability
indices
3. Pollution source indices
4. Leachate testing
5. Flow and solute transport models
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6. Relative subsurface transport models
Noise 1. Individual source propagation models
plus additive model
2. Statistical model of noise based on
population
3. Noise impact indices
Biological 1. Chronic toxicity testing
2. Habitat‐based methods
3. Species population models
4. Diversity indices
5. Indicators
6. Biological assessments
7. Ecologically based risk assessment
Historical/ Archeological 1. Inventory of resources and effects
2. Predictive modeling
3. Prioritization of resources
Visual 1. Baseline inventory
2. Questionnaire checklist
3. Photographic or photomontage approach
4. Computer simulation modeling
5. Visual impact index methods
Socio‐economic 1. Demographic models
2. Econometric models
3. Descriptive checklists
4. Multiplier factors based on population or
economic changes
5. Quality ‐of‐life (QOL) indices
6. Health‐based risk assessment
Models and Modeling
Modeling is a step by step process by which models are developed and/or applied. The
three most common types of models used in EIA are physical models, experimental models
and mathematical models.
Physical Models
Physical models are small‐scale models of the environmental system under investigation on
which experiments can be carried out to predict future changes.
Illustrative/visual models depict changes to an environmental system caused by a proposed
development activity using pictorial images developed from sketches, photographs, films,
“photo montages,” three‐dimensional scale models, and by digital terrain models or digital
image processing systems.
Working physical models, on the other hand, simulate the processes occurring in the
environment using reduced scale models so that resulting changes can be observed and
measured in the model. Such models, however, cannot satisfactorily model all real‐life
situations; faults may occasionally arise as a result of the scaling process.
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Experimental Models
Scientific data from laboratory or field experiments provide basic information on the
relationships between environmental components and human activities. Research results
are used to construct empirical models that can infer the likely effects of an activity on an
environmental component. Examples of experiments in which the environmental system is
modeled and tested in the laboratory include toxicological tests on living organisms using
polluted air, water, food, etc.; micro‐ecosystem experiments; and pilot‐scale plant tests.
Examples of experiments in which tests are carried out in the actual environment include in
situ tracer experiments to monitor the movement of releases into the environment;
controlled experiments in small parts of potentially affected ecosystems; noise tests to
determine levels of disturbance; and pumping tests on groundwater.
Mathematical Models
Mathematical models use mathematical equations to represent the functional relationships
between variables. In general, sets of equations are combined to simulate the behavior of
environmental systems. The number of variables in a model and the nature of the
relationships between them are determined by the complexity of the environmental system
being modeled. Mathematical modeling aims to limit, as much as possible, the number of
variables and thus keep the relationships between variables as simple as possible without
compromising the accuracy of representation of the environmental system.
Types of Mathematical Models are
1. Empirical or Internally descriptive
2. Generalized or Site Specific
3. Stationary or Dynamic
4. Homogenous or Non Homogenous
5. Deterministic or Stochastic
Predicting Quantitative Environment Changes
Predictive methods for estimating quantitative changes in the environment have been
commonly applied to physical systems (air, water, noise), have had some application to
ecological systems, and have had limited application to social systems. Predictive models
are used in EIA in two distinct ways:
1) Comparison of model results with environmental standards
2) The evaluation of project alternatives
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5.1 AIR QUALITY
During the construction stage of a building, dust from various construction operation and
emissions from operation of construction equipment or movement of vehicles, is likely to
cause some impact on the working population and whatever minimal residing population
within immediate vicinity of the project site. Following are the type and sources for air
pollution during the construction stage:
Dust is a major component of air pollution, generated mainly from the following
construction activities:
• Site clearance and use of heavy vehicles and machinery/ equipment etc. at
construction site.
• Procurement and transport of construction materials such as sand, cement, etc. to
the construction site
• Other Gaseous emissions during construction result from operating of construction
vehicles, DG sets, plant and equipments.
During the operation stage the main source of Air Pollution are the DG sets and vehicular
movement around the building.
Wind Rose Diagram
A wind rose is a quantitative graphical summary of the wind direction and speed for a given
time. The wind rose diagram shows the number of hours (expressed as a percentage) that
the wind blew from a particular direction and speed. The wind rose spokes or arms
represent 16 points of the compass. The length of each segment of a spoke represents the
percentage of time the wind speed was within a specific speed interval for a particular
direction (the longer the spoke, the greater the time that the wind blew from that
direction). If summed for all wind directions, the result would provide the percentage of all
hours the wind speed was measured within a specific interval. The percentage of time
when the winds were light and variable is shown in the center of the rose. A wind rose
diagram is essential as it would help ascertain the fate of a pollutant which is being emitted
from the construction site.
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FIGURE 5: A TYPICAL WIND ROSE DIAGRAM
The meteorology of the area also plays an important role in the air quality surveillance
programmes. The micrometeorological parameters regulate the transport and diffusion of
pollutants into the atmosphere.
There are basically three aspects of air quality problems that are amenable to quantitative
prediction. In order of increasing complexity, they are:
1. Estimating rates of release of pollutants;
2. Predicting atmospheric concentrations of pollutants; and
3. Predicting deposition rates on pollutants on soil, water, and vegetation
Estimating Releases: In all cases, it is necessary to estimate the rates of release of
pollutants. Rates of release of substances may be available from design data or from data of
similar activities in operation. If this information is not available, rates of release can be
calculated using emission factor models. These models assume that the rate of release is
directly proportional to the level of implementation of the activity.
Predicting Changes in Concentrations: The assessment of air quality impacts usually
focuses on determining concentrations of air pollutants. Predicted concentrations are often
compared against national or local air quality standards or objectives. Much of the pre‐
project air quality data collection is directed at determining pollutant concentrations at
different times, at different locations, and the variations in concentration in time and in
54
space. This information not only determines a baseline for comparison against changes, but
also provides background information for predictive models.
Dispersion Models: Air quality dispersion models are among the most widely used
predictive tools used in EIA in both developed and developing countries. Dispersion models
have evolved to the state where their predictions take into account various atmospheric
processes. The data required for dispersion models include source data, meteorological
data, topographical data, dispersion parameters, deposition rate parameters, and reaction
rate parameters. These data may be obtained from secondary sources, however field
studies may need to be conducted to obtain meteorological and topographical data and to
calibrate and/or validate the model.
Predicting Deposition on Plants, Soils, Water, and Materials: Different types of models may
be employed for the three deposition processes, namely:
• Gravitational settling affecting dust and aerosols.
• Wet deposition affecting water soluble pollutants such as NOx, SOx, NH3, Cl, F,
etc. and particulates which may form condensation nuclei and which may
combine with rainfall.
• Dry deposition affecting chemically, biologically and physically reactive
pollutants absorbed by or into soil, vegetation, materials, and water. (Air
pollutants affected by dry deposition include gases such as SO 2, F, Cl, CO, CO2,
NO2, NH3, aerosols, ozone, PAN).
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5.2 SURFACE WATER QUALITY
Surface waters include rivers, streams, canals, ditches, lakes, reservoirs, lagoons, estuaries,
and coastal waters. Impacts on surface waters are usually caused by physical disturbances
(for example, the construction of banks, dams, dikes, and other natural or man‐made
drainage systems), by changes in climatic conditions, and by the addition or removal of
substances, heat, or microorganisms (for example, the discharge of effluents and deposition
of air pollutants into water).
Following are the most susceptible locations for contamination of water during a
construction project:
• Low lying areas that have water in them during the period of construction;
• Surface and ground water resources close to construction material storage yard,
concrete mixer plants and maintenance sites of construction vehicles.
• The accidental spills or bad construction practices are likely to affect the near by
drains as well as water quality of the area. The magnitude of such impact/s shall
depend upon the type and magnitude of the construction activity.
During the operation the major source of water pollution is the effluent disharge coming
from washrooms, toilets etc which are emptied usually into the municipality drain with or
without treatment depending on the strength of the waste.
Discharges of Effluents
The calculation of discharges follows the same principles used in calculating releases of
emissions to the air discussed under atmospheric impacts. Estimates of discharges of
pollutants may be available from design data, standard predefined values, monitoring
similar operations elsewhere or pilot testing. If this information is not available, it can be
calculated using discharge factor models. These models assume the rate of discharge is
directly proportional to the level of implementation of the activity. Predictions of effluent
discharges into surface waters are based on information on the rate of flow.
Run‐off Over Land
Run‐off into surface water can be predicted by standard mathematical models, experts, and
field tests using tracers to determine movement of the run‐off and its appearance in surface
water bodies. The interest for predicting run‐off over land in EIA studies is based mainly on
its effects to the hydrology and water quality in receiving water bodies. Special interest
may be focused on the run‐off of pesticides, fertilizers, and other materials toxic to water
bodies used for domestic, agricultural, and recreational purposes.
Flow Models
Hydrodynamic models are based on special cases of the general three‐dimensional Navier‐
Stokes water movement equations. Depending on the nature of the water body, the
56
equations may be reduced to one or two dimensions by depth averaging or cross‐section
averaging. Large water bodies may be divided into segments and modeled in terms of flows
across the boundaries between the segments
Oxygen Sag Curve ‐ Streeter Phelps Equation
Models for predicting changes in organic materials usually consider changes in dissolved
oxygen resulting from increased demands for oxygen from bacteria during decomposition
and supply of oxygen from natural re aeration. The classical example is the Streeter‐Phelps
equation that represents the oxygen sag curve
The Streeter‐Phelps equation actually represents the dissolved oxygen deficit, (Cs ‐ C) as a
function of demand for oxygen and natural aeration, where Cs is the oxygen saturation
concentration.
The basic equation is:
where:
Dt is the dissolved oxygen (DO) deficit at t;
Lo is the BOD concentration at the discharge point immediately after mixing (t=0);
Do is the initial DO deficit at the point of waste discharge;
t is the time or distance downstream;
K1 is the parameter of de oxygenation; and
K2 is the re aeration parameter.
Other processes that affect BOD and resulting dissolved oxygen concentrations, and that
can be integrated in this model include algal and plant respiration, benthal oxygen demand,
photosynthesis, and nitrogenous oxygen demand.
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FIGURE 6: OXYGEN SAG CURVE OBTAINED FROM THE STREETER‐PHELPS EQUATION (SOURCE:
CANTER, 1996)
Water Quality: Mass Balance
The basic concept that underlies most water quality models is that of mass or material
balance (Figure 7):
I + D + F + J = X + R + T
where
I is the inflow into the compartment (mass/time);
D is the discharge into the compartment (mass/time);
F is the formation due to biochemical activity in the compartment (mass/time);
J is the transfer from other compartments (mass/time);
X is the outflow from the compartment (mass/time);
R is the degrading reaction (mass/time); and
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T is the transfer to other compartments (mass/time).
FIGURE 7: MASS BALANCE EQUATION FOR A COMPARTMENT (SOURCE: MCKAY AND PETERSON,
1993)
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5.3 SOILS AND GROUNDWATER
The integrity of soils and groundwater can be altered by a variety of physical disturbances,
including the addition/removal of soil and/or water, compaction of soil, changes in use of
land or ground cover, changes in water hydrology, changes in climate (temperature,
rainfall, wind), and the addition or removal of substances or heat (for example, discharge of
effluents into groundwater, discharge of effluents or disposal of waste onto land, leaching
of contaminants into groundwater, changes in quality of surface water, and deposition of
air pollutants on land). The effects of these vary from first order effects of leaching into soil
and groundwater to changes in groundwater regime, soil structure (including erosion and
subsidence), soil quality or temperature, and groundwater quality or temperature.
Leaching Into Soils and Groundwater
The volume of leachate percolating through a site can be predicted using mathematical
models such as the water balance method in sites above the water table. The water balance
method calculates leachate flow by balancing flows into and out of a site.
Darcy's Law
Darcy's Law is the basis for most models of groundwater flow in sites below the water
table. The method describes the flow of groundwater through a saturated porous medium.
Flow is dependent on the change in head with distance (that is, the hydraulic gradient) and
the permeability of the medium. It is expressed mathematically as:
Q = KA ( )
where:
Q is the flow (m3/day);
K is the permeability (m/day);
A is the cross‐sectional area (m2)
is the hydraulic gradient (that is, the change in the water table elevation per unit
change in the horizontal direction).
Changes in Groundwater Flow
The effects of physical disturbances and discharge of liquid effluents on groundwater
include changes in the availability of soil moisture for soil microorganisms and plants,
reducing the available yield for abstraction which can lead to saltwater intrusion to
underground water sources or a change in the hydrology of surface waters. Mathematical
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models are primarily based on analytical or numerical solution of equations for
conservation of mass using Darcy's law.
Changes in Groundwater Quality
The behavior of non conservative pollutants can be simulated by superimposing models of
chemical conversion, biological breakdown, system process, etc. Tracer experiments may
be used to predict dispersion of pollutants in groundwater.
Changes in Soil Structure
Changes in soil structure are caused by agricultural practices, ground conditions, surface
water conditions, and by removal of subsurface soil or water. The effects of these changes
can manifest on soil microorganisms, plants and animals, crops and livestock, groundwater
and surface water hydrology and quality, visual landscape and amenity, and the integrity of
buildings and other civil engineering works.
5.4 BIOLOGICAL/ ECOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Some development activities have direct impacts on biological systems. For example,
clearing of land for infrastructure will destroy vegetation and displace animals.
Introduction of contaminants may cause direct mortality of plants and animals. However, in
many cases it is changes in the physical environment caused by development that often
lead to secondary or high order changes in plants and animals. For example, changes in
downstream flow as a result of an upstream dam on a river may change the productivity of
fish population.
Physical Disturbance
Prediction of changes in physical disturbance of plants and animals usually requires that
simple maps of the spatial distribution and abundance of the biota be prepared. The
simplest predictive techniques are based on overlaying the project facilities location plan
(buildings, roads, staging areas, etc.) over maps of the existing environment. Today, this is
often done using geographical information systems. For vegetation, this technique provides
a simple prediction of the area lost. For animals and animal communities, this technique is
extended using the “zone of influence” concept. The zone of influence may extend far
beyond the site of the physical disturbance. For example, in the case of noise from a road or
facility the zone of influence may extend hundreds of meters from the source.
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FIGURE 8: SIMPLE ILLUSTRATION OF ZONE OF INFLUENCE (SOURCE: EIA FOR DEVELOPING
COUNTRIES, ADB)
Habitat Alienation
In the terrestrial environment, the destruction of vegetation and loss of soil usually results
in reduction of habitat for animals. The relationship between the extent of the physical
disturbance on the area and the amount of habitat lost or degraded is non‐linear. Small
changes in critical areas can make large areas unsuitable as animal habitat. This is because
animal habitat is usually a combination of the basic necessities for an animal: food, water,
cover, and other resources. Some habitats are critical for survival, for example, wetlands
that act as staging areas for wildlife migration, or mangroves ecosystems that provide
breeding areas for aquatic organisms. Canter (1996) describes two habitat‐based methods
used for prediction of biological impacts: the Habitat Evaluation System (HES) used by the
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US Army Corps of Engineers in the evaluation of water resource project in the lower
Mississippi; and the Habitat Evaluation Procedure (HEP) developed by the US Fish and
Wildlife Service. HEP, originally developed for use in evaluating water resource projects
has been applied in many other contexts
Changes in Animal Populations
In many cases, the primary concern is with impacts on fish and wildlife populations. This is
because these populations often have economic and social importance or are protected by
national legislation or international treaties. Population dynamics models are often
developed to predict changes in animal populations.
Ecotoxicology Impacts of Pollutants on Biota
The dose of a chemical to an organism is a function of both the concentration of the
chemical in the immediate environment and the duration of exposure of the population to
that concentration. The two factors interact in multiplicative way; hence the dose of a
chemical received by an organism is defined (Westman, 1985) as: dose is equal to the
concentration of chemical times duration of exposure at concentration.
Exposure has been defined as contact with a chemical or physical agent. It is the process by
which an organism acquires a dose (Suter, 1993). The estimation of exposure of a target
organism requires an exposure scenario that answers to four questions (Suter, 1993):
1. given the output of fate models, which media (ecosystem components) are
significantly contaminated;
2. to which contaminated media are the target organisms exposed;
3. how are they exposed (pathways and rates of exposure); and
4. given an initial exposure, will the organism modify its behavior to modify exposure
pathways or rates (attraction or avoidance)?
Effects Effects assessment is the process of determining the relationship between exposure
and its effects on the target organism. Most effects assessments are based on toxicity tests.
Dose ‐ Response Functions: The most common model to test results is the dose‐response
function. The pattern of response with increasing dose is assumed to be S‐shaped.
Comparison against Environmental Standards: The final step is to assess the significance of
the predicted effect on a target organism. Exposure assessments allow us to predict the
changes in environmental contaminants, but do not provide the means of evaluating the
significance of the changes. Effect assessments provide us with information on the
magnitude of the effect on target organisms.
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5.5 SOUND AND NOISE
Sound is measured in terms of its intensity and frequency with decibel (dB) and hertz (Hz)
as their units of measurement respectively. Noise is defined as unwanted sound. Sound and
noise may be emitted to the environment from stationary sources (industry, equipment),
road traffic and railways, aircraft operations, and blasting. Noise is perceived as one of the
most undesirable consequences of construction activity.
Though the level of discomfort caused by noise is subjective, the most commonly reported
impacts of increased noise levels are interference in oral communication and disturbance in
sleep. Due to the various construction activities, there will be short-term noise impacts in the
immediate vicinity of the project site. The construction activities include:
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5.6 ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
This section focuses on the emerging role of economic evaluation of environmental
impacts, specifically on how to use such information in environmental assessment. A brief
summary of the principal methods available for placing monetary values (costs and
benefits) on environmental impacts, a taxonomy of valuation methods, and steps involved
in economic evaluation of environmental impacts are also presented.
Role of Economics in Environmental Impact Assessment
The economic analysis of development projects has had a relatively long history. Initially,
environmental impacts were deemed external to development projects, and hence were
excluded from economic analysis. Subsequently, it became the practice to describe
environmental impacts quantitatively. Since the mid‐1980s there has been a growing
interest in placing monetary values on environmental impacts and combining these values
into overall project analysis work.
The role of environmental economics in an EIA can be divided into three categories:
• the use of economics for “benefit‐cost analysis” as an integral part of project
selection;
• the use of economics in the assessment of activities suggested by the EIA; and
• the economic assessment of the environmental impacts of the project.
Environmental economics can aid in the selection of projects, in that benefit‐cost analysis
can be used in the prescreening stage of the project, and the environmental components
can be brought into the process of presenting various options and selecting among them.
Doing so eventually leads to a project selection process which takes the environment into
consideration.
In the second role, the economic assessment is focused on the cost assessment of
environmental mitigation measures and management plans suggested in the EIA. The
economic analysis in the EIA may include a summary of the project costs and how such cost
estimates would change due to the activities proposed under the EIA. This component can
be considered as an accounting of the environmental investment of a project.
The third role, which is the economic assessment of the environmental impacts of a project,
is geared towards seeking the economic values (of both costs and benefits) of the
environmental impacts. These impacts are neither mitigated, nor taken into account in
traditional economic analysis of projects. They should be identified by the EIA and
sufficient quantitative and qualitative explanations should be given in EIA documents. The
economic evaluation of environmental impacts is related to project intervention, however,
methodological difficulties and the traditional thinking that environmental impacts are
external to the project have prevented its incorporation into the overall economic analysis
of the project.
In summary, the use of economic analysis in EIA can aide in assessing the proposed project
more objectively. If the EIA exercise is used as a planning tool in an iterative manner, it is
possible to reduce the negative environmental impacts and capture more positive
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environmental components if the economic analysis of such impacts is possible with every
iteration. The result of integrating economic analysis of environmental impacts can be very
useful in enhancing the quality of a project.
Steps in Economic Valuation of Environmental Impacts
Economic analysis of environmental impacts is important in project preparation to
determine whether the net benefits of undertaking the project are greater than the
alternatives, including the non‐project scenario. Project alternatives often vary in their
economic contribution and environmental impacts. Economic assessment of different
alternatives in the early stages of project planning should provide important inputs to
improve the quality of decision‐making. The economic analysis of the environmental
impacts of the selected projects also allows for a more complete assessment of the project’s
costs and benefits. A general procedure that can be followed in economic analysis of
environmental impacts is presented below.
• Determine the spatial and conceptual boundaries of the analysis;
• Identify environmental impacts and their relationships to the project;
• Quantify environmental impacts and organize them according to importance, the
impacts described qualitatively, if they cannot be expressed in quantitative terms;
• Choose a technique for economic valuation;
• Economic valuation (place monetary values) of environmental impacts identified;
and
• Set an appropriate time frame and perform the extended benefit cost analysis.
The boundary of the economic analysis refers to the conceptual and physical limits of the
analysis. It may consider on‐site and off‐site environmental impacts that are consequences
of project activities. Another consideration is the type of goods and services that should be
included in the analysis. The complexities of a project’s environmental impacts may cause
some difficulty in establishing the spatial and conceptual boundary of the economic
analysis. The rule is to start the analysis with directly observable and measurable impacts.
A successful EIA report should provide the required information for economic analysis of
the environmental impacts. Thus, the EIA should identify and completely document all
impacts, providing sufficient quantitative and qualitative descriptions.
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5.7 SOCIAL ASSESSMENT
Evaluation of the social implications of a project is tightly linked to the scrutiny of that
project’s social and economic objectives. Social assessments must go well beyond
determining a project’s adverse impacts. As a methodology, social assessment refers to a
broad range of processes and procedures for incorporating social dimensions into
development projects. In some cases, the social assessment is conducted in conjunction
with the environmental impact assessment (EIA); in others, it is conducted separately. In
both cases, the social assessment influences project design and the overall approval of the
project.
Social Assessment and the Project Cycle
The social assessment aims to determine the social costs of the project and the degree to
which the benefits of a project will be distributed in an equitable manner. Social
assessments are necessary to help ensure the project will accomplish its development goals
(for example, poverty reduction; enhancement of the role of women in development;
human resources development, including population planning; and avoiding or mitigating
negative effects on vulnerable groups, and protecting these groups).
By addressing the specific development goals in the assessment of development projects,
developers, lenders and governments can help ensure that project benefits are realized and
negative social impacts are minimized. Various methods and approaches have been
developed to consider social dimensions, including:
• social analysis;
• gender analysis;
• indigenous peoples plans;
• involuntary resettlement plans;
• cooperation with non‐governmental organizations;
• use of participatory development processes; and
• benefits monitoring and evaluation.
TABLE 9: SOCIAL DIMENSIONS ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN DURING THE PROJECT CYCLE
Project Stage Activities Undertaken
Project Concept & • identification of social dimensions and associated processes
Pre‐feasibility that may be important in the project
• selection of key elements of social analysis
• identification of initial potential social issues and impacts
• initial Social Assessment
Feasibility Study • social analysis
• involuntary resettlement planning
• indigenous peoples planning
• gender analysis
• poverty impact analysis
• benefit monitoring and evaluation planning
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Project • arrangements for resettlement
Implementation • information dissemination on role of beneficiaries
• ongoing stakeholder consultation
• strengthen beneficiary organizations
• improving absorptive capacity of target groups
• mitigating adverse effects on vulnerable groups
Monitoring • monitoring of social indicators developed during the project
design
• review missions to assess social dimensions and associated
processes
• progress reporting by the executing agency (for example,
beneficiary participation by number, gender, income group;
participation by adversely affected groups; formation of
beneficiary groups (numbers by gender and income class))
Social analyses are becoming a requirement of most assessments undertaken in developing
countries. These analyses involve three principal steps: initial issue identification;
preliminary assessment of all issues; and detailed social analysis of the potential for the
major impacts. Initial issue identification may be carried out in an ad hoc or informal way,
by seeking expert opinion, and by public involvement. The key to success is to incorporate a
range of perspectives in the process. Since the widest range of social, economic, cultural,
resource use and infrastructure effects occur at the local level, local people generally
identify most potential effects and are the key to the identification of issues.
5.8 WATER BALANCE
The water balance is an accounting of the inputs and outputs of water. The water balance of
a place, whether it be an agricultural field, watershed, or a building is performed by
calculating the input, output, and storage changes of water. Carrying out a Water Balance
for a building is essential as it would help determine the amount of water required from
various sources such as municipal supply/ ground water tanker supply etc and the
potential of water conservation by ways such as Rain Water Harvesting A water balance
also helps designing an Effluent Treatment Plant if required.
Figure 9 shows a typical Water Balance for a building being constructed in New Delhi.
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FIGURE 9: A TYPICAL WATER BALANCE
69
Chapter 6
Environment
Monitoring and
Management Plan
70
6 ENVIRONMENT MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT PLAN
6.1 ENVIRONMENT MONITORING PLAN
Environmental monitoring provides feedback about the actual environmental impacts of a
project. Monitoring results help judge the success of mitigation measures in protecting the
environment. They are also used to ensure compliance with environmental standards, and
to facilitate any needed project design or operational changes.
The importance of monitoring can be illustrated by using a hypothetical example of a
wastewater treatment plant. The plant may have been built according to the Environmental
Management Plan specified in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). However, due
to lack of funds, bad management, or insufficient skills, the plant is functioning poorly.
Without monitoring, the impacts caused by the poor functioning could continue
indefinitely. With monitoring (and response by the appropriate regulatory agency), the
problems can be recognized and resolved. For example, assume that the wastewater
treatment plant described above is operating as originally planned. The receiving body of
water, for instance a river, was assumed to have sufficient capacity to assimilate
wastewater that had received only primary treatment. If, however, a large amount of water
is abstracted upstream of the wastewater treatment plant, the assimilative capacity of the
river will be reduced. The monitoring program would show the water quality had
deteriorated and that secondary treatment was required. (This situation could be avoided
by proper regional environmental planning.)
A monitoring program, backed up by powers to ensure corrective action when the
monitoring results show it necessary, is a proven way to ensure effective implementation of
mitigation measures. By tracking a project’s actual impacts, monitoring reduces the
environmental risks associated with that project, and allows for project modifications to be
made where required.
Implementing an Environmental Monitoring Program
Environmental Monitoring Defined
In general, environmental monitoring programs will collect data for one or more of the
following purposes (Everitt, 1992):
1. to establish a baseline; that is, gathering information on the basic site
characteristics prior to development or to establish current conditions;
2. to establish long term trends in natural unperturbed systems to establish natural
baselines;
3. to estimate inherent variation within the environment, which can be compared with
the variation observed in another specific area;
4. to make comparisons between different situations (for example, pre‐development
and post development; upstream and downstream; at different distances from a
source) to detect changes; and
5. to make comparisons against a standard or target level.
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Compliance Monitoring
Compliance monitoring is a commonly practiced form of environmental monitoring. The
purpose of compliance monitoring is to ensure that the quality or quantity of an
environmental component is not altered by a human activity beyond a specified standard of
regulation level. An example of compliance monitoring is a sampling program conducted by
either industry or government to ensure that concentrations of a contaminant do not
exceed a specified level either in the effluent or in the receiving waters. Implicit in
compliance monitoring is the assumption that if the characteristic being monitored is
within acceptable limits, then the effects will be within acceptable limits. Compliance
monitoring is not concerned with determining actual effects.
Environmental Effects Monitoring
When the objectives of the monitoring program require that actual effects be determined,
environmental effects monitoring is required.
Environmental effects monitoring has been defined as the repetitive measurement of
environmental parameters to test specific hypotheses of the effects of human activity on
the environment (LGL Ltd. et al 1984). Conover (1985) added to this definition the notion
that environmental monitoring measures changes for the purpose of establishing cause‐
effect relationships. This manual adopts the following definition of environmental
monitoring: Environmental effects monitoring is the repetitive and systematic measurement
of the characteristics of environmental components to test specific hypotheses of the effects of
human activity on the environment. Environmental monitoring is undertaken primarily to
determine the environmental effects of human activities, and secondarily to increase
understanding of causeeffect relationships between human activity and environmental
change.
The implications of this definition are that:
Environmental Effects Monitoring in Environmental Impact Assessment
Environmental effects monitoring programs provide the necessary information to:
1. verify the accuracy of EIA predictions; and
2. determine the effectiveness of measures to mitigate adverse effects of projects on
the environment.
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Feedback from environmental monitoring programs may be used to:
1. determine whether more or less stringent mitigation measures are needed; and
2. improve the predictive capability of EIAs.
In recent years, the effectiveness of EIA studies has come under serious challenge, and
repeated calls have been made for a new, more scientifically sound approach to forecasting
environmental effects.
Unfortunately, despite the large number of impact predictions that have been formulated,
few attempts have been made to test previous predictions (Marmorek et al., 1986; Munro et
al., 1986; Bernard et al., 1989). As a result, many inaccurate predictions are probably being
propagated in ongoing EIA processes.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Mitigation Measures
Without monitoring there is no mechanism for evaluating the success of the mitigation
measures undertaken. Environmental monitoring provides important information that
allows for more effective planning and an adaptive response based on an assessment of the
effectiveness of mitigation measures. Normally a number of environmental operating
conditions are laid down upon granting of project approval. These, along with any
conditions set out in permits and licenses; become part of the overall environmental
management regime for the project.
Environmental monitoring is required to assess whether the various mitigation measures
are effective in attaining the goals of environmental protection. Without an environmental
monitoring program, it is not possible to determine whether the environment is being
protected or not. The absence of such a program also leaves the EIA process without a
mechanism for evaluating its performance against its goals. Environmental monitoring can
help to:
1. describe the extent of environmental effects and resource losses;
2. provide scientific information about the response of an ecosystem to a given set of
human activities and mitigation measures; and
3. provide data for use as a part of environmental auditing of environmental
management practices.
Table 10 shows a typical Environmental Monitoring Plan for a construction plan of a mall
being constructed in Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.
TABLE 10: A TYPICAL ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN
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Carbon Monoxide ( CO)
Hydrocarbons ( HC )
2 Sampling Methodology The air quality monitoring should be
conducted using High Volume Samplers. CO
will be collected by Peroxide tube method or
by portable CO meter. HC should be collected
in Mylar Bags.
3 No of locations One location to be monitored.
4 Frequency of Measurements Once in a month @ two days per monitoring
5 Compliance The monitoring results should be compared
with the National Ambient Air Quality
Standard.
Noise Quality Monitoring
1 Parameters to be monitored Hourly noise levels for 24 hours
2 Sampling Methodology The noise levels should be recorded using a
portable hand held noise level meter.
3 No of locations One location to be monitored.
4 Frequency of Measurements Once in a month
5 Compliance The monitoring results should be compared
with the National Ambient Air Quality
Standard.
6.2 ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMP)
A primary goal of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is to develop procedures to
ensure that all mitigation measures and monitoring requirements specified in the approved
EIA will actually be carried out in subsequent stages of project development. These
mitigation measures and monitoring requirements are normally set out in an
Environmental Management Plan (EMP). A well structured EMP usually covers all phases of
the project, from preconstruction right through to decommissioning. The Plan outlines
mitigation and other measures that will be undertaken to ensure compliance with
environmental laws and regulations and to reduce or eliminate adverse impacts.
Specifically, the EMP outlines:
• the technical work program to carry out the EMP, including details of the required
tasks and reports, and the necessary staff skills, supplies, and equipment;
• a detailed accounting of the estimated costs to implement the EMP; and
• the planned operation or implementation of the EMP, including a staffing chart and
proposed schedules of participation by the various members of the project team,
and activities and inputs from various governmental agencies.
Table 11 shows an environment management plan for sound and noise generated during
the construction phase of a particular construction site in New Delhi:
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TABLE 11: A TYPICAL EMP
75
Chapter 7
Case Study: Rapid
EIA for an office
complex
76
7 CASE STUDY: RAPID EIA OF AN OFFICE COMLPEX
This case study assumes a hypothetical construction project for the development of a Rapid
Environmental Impact Assessment report. It is assumed that an office complex is to be
constructed in a radius of 1000 meters around the AIIMS Flyover, New Delhi. Details of the
project are assumed, though effort has been made to ensure that the details be realistic and
close to what can be expected in a real large sized office complex.
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7.1 INTRODUCTION
An office complex is being planned near the AIIMS Flyover in Delhi. As the project attracts
the provisions of the EIA notification, it was decided to carry out a Rapid EIA Study for the
proposed office complex, to assess likely impacts on environment.
The approximate plot area is 30,000 m2. Out of this, about 7,500 m2 of the area will be used
for building construction.
7.1.1 SCOPE OF STUDY
• To assess the present status of air, noise, water, land, biological and socio‐economic
components of environment.
• Identification and quantification of significant impacts from the proposed project
operations on various components of environment.
• Evaluation of proposed pollution control facilities.
• Preparation of a sound Environmental Management Plan (EMP) outlining additional
control technologies to be adopted for mitigation of adverse impacts, if any.
• Delineation of the post‐project environmental quality monitoring program to be
followed.
7.1.2 METHODOLOGY
Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment (REIA) was used as the method for the
assessment of environmental impacts of the proposed project. The impacts of the project
activities on environmental components can be quantified through REIA Studies within the
impact zone of the project activities. The results of REIA Studies form the basis for the
preparation of a viable EMP for mitigation of the adverse impacts. The REIA Studies for the
proposed construction project deals with detailed studies for various environmental
components viz. air, noise, water, land, biological and socio‐economic environment.
7.1.3 STUDY AREA
For environmental impact studies, an area covering 10 km radial distance surrounding the
proposed project site was identified as study area (Impact Zone). A distance of 1 Km was
considered to be in the immediate vicinity of the project site.
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7.1.4 ENVIRONMENT QUALITY STANDARDS
The following standards have been included in Annexure 1:
• National Ambient Air Quality Standards
• Ambient Noise Standards
• Indian Standard Drinking Water Specifications (BIS 10500:1991)
• Stack height for Diesel Generator sets and emission standards
• Standards and Guidelines for Control of Noise Pollution from Stationary Diesel
Generator (DG) Sets
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7.2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
7.2.1 PROJECT FEATURES
The proposed Office Complex is to be located near AIIMS Flyover, New Delhi. It will be
constructed in an area of 30,000 m2. An area of 7,500 m2 will be utilized for construction.
The building will have a total of five floors (1 basement + 1 Ground floor + 3 more floors
above ground level). The cost of the project is estimated to be around Rs. 49 Crores.
TABLE 12: PROJECT FEATURES
7.2.2 PROJECT LOCATION
The project area lies in a radius of one kilometer of AIIMS Flyover which is at the longitude
77o12' E and latitude 28o34' N. It is a flat area at an altitude of 229 m above mean sea level.
The nearest railway station is New Delhi Railway Station, situated at a distance of
approximately 9 Km from the proposed site. Nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International
Airport, New Delhi, situated around 12 kms away from the proposed site.
There is no surface water source in the vicinity, and this area is not flood prone. The
groundwater of the area is potable. No endemic disease is known in the area. The rock of
the area is quartzite type and topography is flat.
The site is located in Indo‐Gangetic plain system.
These are alluvial plains covering a deep mantle
of river clays and silt concealing a deep rift in the
sub‐crust. The floor is not structurally uniform
having two prominent ridges. One of them is
located around Delhi known as Aravalli. The
lithology consists of fluviatile and sub‐aerial
formation rocks.
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occurrence of earthquakes of 5‐6, a few of magnitude 6‐7 and occasional incidence of 7.5‐
8.0 magnitude shocks. The most active area of the region is considered to be the tri‐junction
of the Delhi‐Hardwar ridge, Lahore‐Delhi ridge and axis of Delhi folding. Most of shocks are
interpreted to be shallow focus and have concentrated around Sonepat, Rohtak and
Gurgaon region in and around Delhi may be considered as seismically very active and the
tectonic elements of the area are considered capable of generating an earthquake of
magnitude 7 on Richter Scale.
7.2.3 ROAD NETWORK
The project is very well connected by a road network. It is well connected by road from all
parts of Delhi via the Ring Road.
7.2.4 SPECIAL FEATURES OF THE PROJECT
7.2.4.1 Rainwater Harvesting
The average annual rainfall of the area is 723.9 mm. For water conservation point of view,
it is essential to use rainwater for recharging of ground water. The proposed rainwater
harvesting system will consist of percolation pits with 250‐300 mm diameter boreholes in
the middle of the pit. UPVC pipe 160 mm diameter perforated will be lowered in the middle
of the boreholes and the pit will be filled with gravels and pebbles in three layers of 500
mm each consisting of boulders, gravel and coarse sand. The mouth of the UPVC pipe shall
be protected to avoid silt getting into it. The depth of the bore will depend on the soil
condition/water strata.
7.2.4.2 Disabled Friendly Building
• 2 numbers of 1.8 m wide ramps with 1:12 slope and non-skid flooring;
• 2 numbers of toilets on each floor earmarked for differently abled persons with all
necessary provisions; and
• 4 numbers of reserved parking spaces for differently abled persons.
7.2.5 WATER REQUIREMENT
Since the proposed complex is office in nature, water required shall be mainly for plumbing
and sanitary purpose, drinking, cooling water and for irrigating the lawns and green belt.
Total water requirement has been estimated as 70 KLD and will be met from
groundwater/municipal supply. Nearly 69 m3/d of water will be required for 1200 persons
expected to work at the office and approximately 1000 visitors, corresponding to 45 lpd
per worker and 15 lpd per visitor.
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7.2.6 SOURCE OF WATER SUPPLY & STORAGE OF WATER
The source of water supply shall be through tubewells and Delhi Jal Board water supply.
The water supply will be connected to the fire reserve tanks and over‐ flow will go into the
raw water storage tank.
7.2.7 WASTEWATER GENERATION
The wastewater will be sewage generated from the Office Complex. The wastewater
generation from all the activities shall be 55.2 KLD calculated with an interception factor of
0.8 for domestic wastewater (water required for cleaning and gardening was not
considered for calculations).
At present, there is no plan to reuse or recycle the wastewater. It is an office complex, it will
be occupied for 5 days a week and about 9 hours per working day. In such condition
wastewater generation will be limited to that period. Since, most of the treatment systems
are based on bacterial activity and bacteria along with other micro‐organisms require
continuous feed in the form of nutrients present in wastewater. Therefore, it is difficult to
treat wastewater of this complex with conventional sewage treatment technologies.
Moreover, the sewage from office complex contains less concentration of pollutants than
domestic sewage.
7.2.8 AIR CONDITIONING/ HEATING
There is no plan for the provision of air conditioning and/ or heating of the building.
7.2.9 PARKING ARRANGEMENT
7.2.10 POWER SUPPLY
The power requirement details are as follows:
• Power requirement – 3 MW
• Backup source – 5 DG sets, 5X310 KVA
• Energy Consumption/m2 of built‐up area – 100 Watt/ m2
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Measures to minimize energy consumption:
• Maximum use of sunlight
• Use of energy efficient lamps
• DG sets are controlled by PLC panel
• Illumination level in different area is as per NBC
7.2.11 DETAILS OF DG SETS
Five DG Sets (5 X 310 KVA) shall be installed for emergency use. The DG Sets shall be
enclosed in suitable acoustic enclosures. The fuel consumption of DG sets shall be about
120 l/hr.
7.2.12 DETAILS OF BUILDING MATERIALS
Civil construction:
Civil construction shall be done with R.C.C using the following materials:
i. Cement
ii. Concrete
iii. MS bars
iv. Sand
v. Bricks
vi. Marble/ Granite
vii. Plaster of Paris
viii. Steel
ix. Stone aggregate
x. Fly ash
xi. Ceramic
xii. Tiles
Furnishing:
i. Plywood
ii. Aluminium Panel/ Aluminium doors, windows etc.
iii. M.S. Scaffolding
iv. Gypsum board
v. Glass
vi. Sanitary fittings
vii. Paints/Distemper
viii. Wood
ix. Pressed steel windows
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Electrical and Mechanical items:
i. PVC wires / cables
ii. Polycarbonate switches, sockets
iii. Motor/ Pumps
iv. MS boxes/ Panels
7.2.13 LIST OF MACHINERY USED DURING CONSTRUCTION
i. Dumper : Mud and material handling
ii. Concrete mixer with hopper : RCC work
iii. JCB : Digging and earth work
iv. Concrete Batching Plant : Concrete mixing
v. Cranes : Lifting and moving of materials
vi. Road roller : Compacting the earth
Apart from building materials transportation from the suppliers to the site, a few tractors
with trolleys shall be used for transportation within the project area.
During construction, fuel will be used in loader, dumper, concrete mixer, cranes and road
roller. The concrete mixer runs through electricity, while other earthmoving equipment
require diesel. Maximum fuel consumption will be in dumper, followed by cranes.
7.2.14 COST OF PROJECT
The total cost of the proposed Office Project is approximately Rs. 49 Crores.
7.2.15 SEWERAGE PLAN
The wastewater generated, mainly sewage, will flow to existing sewerage system leading to
local sewerage network. No Sewage Treatment Plan is being designed for the complex.
7.2.16 SOURCES OF POLLUTION
a) Air Pollution:
The recognized sources of air pollution from the office complex will be operational DG sets
during power supply failures. The vehicles of staff and visitors will emit SPM, SO2, NOx and
84
HC as diffused source, while DG sets will act as point source. Maximum emission load
during grid power failure due to 2 x 1250 kVA DG sets at full load will be 3.85 kg/h of SPM,
3.93 kg/h of SO2 and 0.39 kg/h of NOx. It may, however, be noted that DG sets are not a
continuous source of gaseous emissions and these will be operated for short period only
during grid power failure.
In addition, during development and construction phases, dust and exhaust gases will be
generated, which will cease once the construction phase is over.
b) Water Pollution:
In the premises, water shall be used for sanitary purposes. The wastewater shall be mainly
of sanitary origin. The sewage will join the existing sewerage system. Sewage is expected to
be around 55.2 Kld.
c) Noise Pollution :
The major source of noise pollution will be traffic, while DG sets will create noise during
power failure.
d) Soil Pollution:
During development and construction involving earthwork and excavation, soil will be dug
out and moved. Most of this will be used for filling low lying areas. Some amount will also
be used in gardening and landscaping. No soil pollution is thus envisaged from the project.
7.2.17 POLLUTION CONTROL MEASURES
Air Pollution: DG sets shall be provided with high stacks as per norm for efficient
dispersion of emissions.
Water Pollution: There will not be any pollution problem from the project. The generated
wastewater will join the existing sewerage system.
Noise: Major source of noise is DG sets. A suitable acoustic covering to minimize the
impact will be provided.
Solid waste Management: The main source of solid wastes will be from office activities. It
will be managed by Delhi Municipal Corporation.
85
7.2.18 LANDSCAPING
The landscape of project site has been planned to provide a clean, healthy and beautiful
green environment for the people. It has been designed to achieve a blend between modern
building and various species of plants, shrubs, to create a clean healthy and aesthetic
environment that provides a visual retreat and relaxation to the occupants of these
buildings. A combination of evergreen trees and ornamental flowering trees, shrubs and
palms has been planned for landscaping the complex.
86
7.3 BASELINE DATA
7.3.1 CLIMATIC CONDITIONS
The meteorology of the area plays an important role in the air quality surveillance
programmes. The micrometeorological parameters regulate the transport and diffusion of
pollutants in to the atmosphere.
The summers in Delhi are very hot and winters very cold. The temperature range varies
from 45 degrees in summers to 4 degrees in winters. The winters are marked by mist and
fog in the mornings. January is the coldest month when the mean daily minimum
temperature is 6oC to 7oC. The cold wave from the Himalayan region makes winters very
chilly. During cold waves, the minimum temperature may go down to the freezing point of
water. During the summer months of May and June, the maximum temperature sometimes
reaches 45oC. Temperature drops considerably with the advancement of monsoon in June.
However, the night temperature during this period continues to be high.
Humidity is considerably low during the greater part of the year. The region experiences
high humidity only during the monsoon period. The period of minimum humidity (less than
20%) is between April and May.
Delhi receives two seasonal rainfalls – (i) by Southwest monsoon and (ii) Northeast
monsoons. About 75% of rainfall occurs during July to September due to South‐West
monsoon. The North East monsoon is active during December‐April. The annual rainfall is
about 660 mm with 39 rainy days in a year.
Since there is meteorological observatory located around the proposed site, meteorological
data of IMD station at Safdarjung, New Delhi, has been utilized for the study. The important
parameters considered are temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction and rainfall.
The meteorological data as monthly average of last twelve years (1994‐2006), as recorded
at New Delhi, are given in Table 14.
7.3.1.1 Temperature:
Average temperature of the area is 17.6ºC minimum and 31.6ºC maximum. During winter,
temperature varies between 5.3ºC and 25.3ºC, in summer 13.7 and 41.5ºC, and in autumn
(post‐monsoon) 11.2ºC and 36.3ºC. The monthly averages are given in Table 14.
7.3.1.2 Relative Humidity:
The yearly average humidity of the area is 56%. Variation in winter in from 37 to 92%; in
summer from 12 to 76% and in autumn 33% to 86%. The humidity figure shows that area
is semi‐arid. The monthly averages are given in Table 13.
87
7.3.1.3 Rainfall:
The average annual rainfall is 723.9 mm. The maximum rainfall was recorded in July (upto
413.8 mm). The monthly averages are given in the Table 14.
7.3.1.4 Wind Velocity:
Wind velocity normally is in the range of 1.0 to 14.1 kms/hr. The wind velocity range was
high during June and July due to frequent dust storms. The monthly averages are given in
Table 14.
7.3.1.5 Wind Direction:
As per IMD data, the predominant wind direction is towards SE. Following are the season
wise predominant wind directions:
Winter : NW
Summer : NW
Autumn : NW
The monthly average wind speed and direction are given in Table 13.
TABLE 13: MONTHLY AVERAGE WIND SPEED AND DIRECTION
Month Temperature (0C) Humidity (%) Wind speed (km/hr) Wind Rainfall (mm)
Max Min. Max Min Max Min Direction Calm Max Min
January 21.6 5.3 92 44 7.7 5.7 NW (27%) 25% 46.6 0
February 25.3 9.1 86 37 9.4 4.7 NW (29%) 17% 59.2 1.1
March 31 13.7 74 25 10.8 6.3 NW (36%) 13% 26.5 0
April 39 19.3 60 12 9 7 NW (31%) 8.20% 45.5 0
May 41.5 23.5 61 16 11.9 6.1 NW (27%) 9.60% 65.8 0
June 41.4 26.2 76 27 12.7 7 NW (18%) 9.10% 32.6 0
July 39.4 26.2 84 42 14.1 6.1 E (24.5%) 10% 413.8 3.9
August 36 25.9 85 53 10.7 6.3 E (19.7%) 16% 212.3 22
September 36.3 23.9 84 44 8.7 4.8 NW (21%) 19% 176.8 0
October 34.7 17.6 80 33 4.7 1.6 NW (17%) 41% 40.4 0
November 29.4 11.2 86 42 5.7 1 NW (13%) 53% 14.2 0
December 24.4 5.9 87 41 6.4 1.9 W (20%) 49% 29.3 0
(Source: Indian Meteorological Data, New Delhi)
88
FIG – 6 A
WIND ROSE DIAGRAM
22% ANNUAL (1991 – 2003)
7%
5%
7.7%
5.4%
2.5% 0 to 5 km/hr
5 to 10 km/hr
10 to 20 km/hr
Above 20km/hr
FIGURE 11: THE WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF ANNUAL AVERAGE (1994‐2006)
FIG
–6B
WIND ROSE DIAGRAM
WINTER (1991 – 2003)
23.8%
5.3%
2.5%
31%
0 to 5 km/hr
5.2%
5% 1.8%
5 to 10 km/hr
10 to 20 km/hr
Above 20km/hr
FIGURE 12: THE WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF WINTER AVERAGE (1994‐2006)
Fig – 1 B: The wind rose diagram of winter average (19942006)
89
A M
T
U N
9
(1 0
2
–
1 0
)
3
%
.2
7
1 %
.7
6 4
.%
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4
1 M
L
A
C
M
L
A
C .%
8
%
.8
4 %
8
3 %
.9
4 5
o
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to
0 h
m
rk
/h
m
k
%
.3
1 1
A
o
5
0
b
1
A
o
t5
0
b h
km
0
2
e
rvo
/h
m
k
0
2
e
v
FIGURE 13: WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF SUMMER AVERAGE (1994‐2006)
FIGURE 14: THE WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF AUTUMN AVERAGE (1994‐2006)
90
7.3.2 MICRO ‐ METEOROLOGICAL DATA:
A weather station was installed near the site for hourly monitoring of temperature,
humidity, wind velocity, wind direction and rainfall data for three months (1st September,
2006 to 30th November, 2006).
TABLE 14: MONTHLY AVERAGE MICRO‐METEOROLOGICAL DATA
7.3.2.1 Temperature:
Average temperature of the area varied from 100 C to 380 C. Mean temperature varied
between 21.01 ºC and 33.84 ºC.
7.3.2.2 Relative Humidity:
Average humidity of the area varied from 8% to 100%. The maximum humidity was
recorded in October, 2006. The average humidity for each month is given in Table – 2.
7.3.2.3 Rainfall:
There was scanty rainfall only for few days in the month of September, 2006.
7.3.2.4 Wind Velocity:
Wind velocity was in the range of 0.5 m/second to 8.3 m/second. The wind velocity was
almost similar during the whole study period. The average wind velocity for each month is
given in the Table 13.
91
22.5 WIND ROSE DIGRAM
POST MONSOON (2006)
5.7
3.9
9.0
CALM
17.3
23.6
5.6 7.8
4.6 0‐5 km/hr
5‐10 km/hr
7.3.3 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY
FIGURE 15: WIND ROSE DIAGRAM FOR POST MONSOON 2006
The ambient air quality monitoring was done in post monsoon season of 2006 to assess the
ambient air quality.
Monitoring was carried out at six stations for 12 weeks from September, 2006 to
November, 2006. Monitoring was also conducted on weekends to assess the maximum
impact on ambient air quality.
The guidelines for selections of ambient air monitoring stations as given in IS – 5182 part
14, were followed. These guidelines state that, “when the objective of air sampling is to
identify the contribution from specific sources of pollution, the sampling locations should
be located in upwind and the downwind of such sources”. The location of air quality
monitoring stations should satisfy the following conditions:
• The site should be representative of the area selected;
• The station should be set up and operated so as to yield data that can be compared
with those from stations within the network; and,
• Certain physical requirements should be satisfied at the site.
On studying the conditions of the project, it was observed that most of the pollution shall be
emanating from the chimney of DG sets. So it was decided to choose stations in the
predominant wind directions in relation to the proposed chimney.
92
7.3.3.1 Sampling Stations:
To select the air sampling locations, it was also seen that at least one station should be
downstream of predominant wind direction from the DG stack.
7.3.3.2 Duration of Sampling:
Duration : 12 weeks from September, 2006 to November, 2006
Period : Sampling was done 24 hourly continuous of SPM/RSPM and 8
hourly for gaseous parameters.
7.3.3.3 Sampling Procedure:
Time averaged in – situ sampling was adopted by passing a known volume of air through a
trap, and a collecting medium (filter paper and bubbler). Respirable Dust Sampler were
used for the purpose.
This procedure was adopted because there are no short‐term variations and low
concentration of gaseous pollutants was expected.
7.3.3.4 Analytical methods followed for ambient air quality monitoring:
(i) Suspended Particular Matter (SPM):
The samples for SPM were collected on GF/A Filter paper by Respirable Dust Sampler
(RDS), operated at maximum rate of 1.5 cu.m./min. and concentration were determined
gravimetrically on 24 hrs. basis.
(ii) Sulphur dioxide (SO2):
Sulphur dioxide collection was done by aspirating a measured volume of air through a
dilute acidified solution of hydrogen peroxide. For analysis, TCM method was followed (Ref.
Chapter 700, Standard Method of Air Sampling and Analysis, 2nd edition, APHA, 1977).
(iii) Nitrogen Oxides (IS: 5182; Part – VI – 1975 ):
Nitrogen oxides were estimated by bubbling air through 0.1 N Sodium hydroxide solution
and measured as nitrate through spectrophotometer at 540 nm.
(iv) Carbon Monoxide (Method 132 of APHA):
The known volume of ambient air was passed a glass tube consisting of solid absorbent
which react with carbon monoxide to form color. The length & depth of color is
proportional to the quantity of carbon monoxide present.
93
(V) Hydrocarbon (Method 101 of APHA):
Atmospheric hydrocarbons are quantified by gas chromatography. The air sample is
introduced in the gas chromatograph column containing activated alumina coated with B.B
oxydipropionnitrile using helium as carrier gas. This gas stream is then introduced in Flame
Ionization Detector (FID).The hydrocarbon molecules are ionized in the intense heat of this
flame. Ions are collected at electrodes and resulting current (which is proportional to the
number of carbon atoms in each hydrocarbon molecule) is measured in electrometer. The
detection limit of this method is <10.0 µg/m3.
7.3.3.5 Results
Air quality is a complex and dynamic characteristic of any area. Most of the areas in Delhi
and adjoining locations reel under air pollution and vehicles are the major contributor of
pollutants. AIIMS flyover sees a very heavy volume of traffic for most part of the day, and
this makes the ambient air quality bad. The climatic conditions and high rise buildings aid
and abet their dispersion in the adjoining areas. The ambient air quality around the
proposed site also reflects these characteristics. The ambient air quality results are
summarized in Table 15 – Table 18. The results are discussed below:
Core Zone: The proposed site (Station A ‐1) has been considered as core zone.
Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM): The SPM values were never found unusually high
as it ranged between 89.51 to 287.96 µg/m3 at proposed project site. The mean values
ranged between 149.35 to 217.37 µg/m3 and 98 percentile value was 214.14 µg/m3.
Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM): The RSPM values at the proposed site
ranged between 62.66 to 192.93 µg/m3. The mean values of RSPM ranged between 95.32
to 140.79 µg/m3 and 98 percentile value was 139.52 µg/m3.
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2): The Sulphur dioxide values at the proposed project site ranged
between 5.24 to 14.73 µg/m3. The mean values ranged between 7.4 to 11.74 µg/m3 and 98
percentile value was 11.69 µg/m3.
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx): The values of oxides of nitrogen at the proposed project site
ranged between 7.16 to 17.89 µg/m3. The mean values ranged between 9.90 to 15.22
µg/m3 and 98 percentile value was observed as 14.98 µg/m3.
Buffer Zone: Area within 10 km radius around the project site.
Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM): The SPM values were rarely found unusually high
as it ranged between 65.27 to 355.79 µg/m3. The mean values ranged between 99.29 to
301 µg/m3 and 98 percentile value was between 222.53 to 311.55µg/m3.
94
Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM): The RSPM values in buffer zone
ranged between 52.21 to 238.38 µg/m3. The mean values of RSPM ranged between 79.43
to 201.88 µg/m3 and 98 percentile value was 153.17 to 214.44 µg/m3.
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2): The sulphur dioxide values in buffer zone ranged between 4.5 to
22.56 µg/m3. The mean values ranged between 6.36 to 18.313 µg/m3 and 98 percentile
value was between 11.82 and 16.55 µg/m3.
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx): The values of oxides of nitrogen at the proposed project site
ranged between 6.16 to 25.74 µg/m3. The mean values ranged between 8.52 to 25.74
µg/m3 and 98 percentile value was observed between 14.53 and 20.33 µg/m3.
The levels of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons were insignificant at all the locations. The
HC measurements revealed that the values were below the detection limit of the
equipment, which is less than 10.0 µg/m3.
TABLE 15: SPM
SPM µg/m3
DATE Site (Core Zone) A-2 (Buffer Zone) A-3 (Buffer Zone)
Max Min Mean Max Min Mean Max Min Mean
5.9.06 239.96 91.20 181.14 299.95 79.80 146.66 335.95 127.68 253.6
11.9.06 162.56 74.59 124.56 121.92 65.27 99.29 227.58 104.43 174.25
18.9.06 192.69 80.61 142.70 156.56 68.52 114.38 269.76 112.85 199.78
22.9.06 183.31 76.70 146.64 151.23 66.16 115.94 256.64 107.39 205.29
4.10.06 192.16 98.55 150.95 160.93 86.23 122.92 269.02 137.98 211.33
10.10.06 194.96 94.15 160.38 163.28 83.56 130.28 272.94 131.81 224.53
15.10.06 214.33 100.9 168.89 187.54 90.85 140.65 300.06 141.33 236.45
22.10.06 196.66 95.83 134.47 159.79 86.24 114.36 275.33 134.16 188.26
29.10.06 216.74 84.81 162.44 181.52 75.27 134.36 303.44 118.74 227.42
7.11.06 202.67 99.20 165.73 167.20 86.80 133.49 283.73 138.89 232.02
12.11.06 221.02 106.2 167.84 190.63 92.94 140.06 309.43 148.7 234.97
18.11.06 207.44 81.98 154.73 176.32 71.73 126.37 290.42 114.77 216.62
95
TABLE 16: RSPM
RSPM µg/m3
DATE Site (Core Zone) A-2 (Buffer Zone) A-3 (Buffer Zone)
Max Min Mean Max Min Mean Max Min Mean
5.9.06 192.93 76.61 140.79 200.97 79.80 146.66 225.09 89.38 164.26
11.9.06 117.04 62.66 95.32 121.92 65.27 99.29 136.55 73.1 111.21
18.9.06 150.30 65.77 109.79 156.56 68.52 114.38 175.35 76.74 128.10
22.9.06 145.19 63.51 111.30 151.23 66.16 115.94 169.38 74.1 129.85
4.10.06 154.50 82.79 118.01 160.93 86.23 122.92 180.24 96.58 137.67
10.10.06 156.75 80.21 125.07 163.28 83.56 130.28 182.87 93.58 145.92
15.10.06 180.04 87.22 135.02 187.54 90.85 140.65 210.04 101.76 157.53
22.10.06 153.40 82.79 109.79 159.79 86.24 114.36 178.96 96.59 128.09
29.10.06 174.26 72.26 128.99 181,52 75.27 134.36 203.3 84.3 150.49
7.11.06 160.51 83.33 128.15 167.20 86.80 133.49 187.26 97.22 149.52
12.11.06 183.01 89.22 134.46 190.63 92.94 140.06 213.51 104.09 156.87
18.11.06 169.27 68.86 121.32 176.32 71.73 126.37 197.48 80.34 141.54
TABLE 17: SO2
SO2 µg/m3
DATE Site (Core Zone) A-2 (Buffer Zone) A-3 (Buffer Zone)
Max Min Mean Max Min Mean Max Min Mean
5.9.06 9.82 5.24 7.4 10.56 5.63 7.96 9.61 5.12 7.24
11.9.06 11.34 6.54 8.68 12.20 7.04 9.35 11.10 6.40 8.5
18.9.06 10.71 6.25 8.92 11.52 6.72 9.6 10.48 6.11 8.73
22.9.06 10.63 7.36 8.84 11.44 7.92 9.51 10.41 7.20 8.65
4.10.06 13.09 8.18 10.87 14.07 8.80 11.69 12.81 8.00 10.64
10.10.06 13.66 7.52 10.19 14.69 8.09 10.96 13.36 7.36 9.97
15.10.06 11.22 9.00 10.01 12.06 9.68 10.77 10.98 8.81 9.80
22.10.06 10.47 5.98 7.86 11.26 6.43 8.46 10.25 5.85 7.69
29.10.06 11.45 8.54 9.66 12.31 9.18 10.39 11.21 8.35 9.46
96
7.11.06 14.73 8.54 11.74 15.83 9.18 12.62 14.41 8.35 11.48
12.11.06 12.80 8.73 10.45 13.77 9.38 11.24 12.53 8.54 11.23
18.11.06 11.95 11.10 11.50 12.85 11.93 12.36 11.69 10.86 11.25
TABLE 18: NOX
NOx µg/m3
DATE Site (Core Zone) A-2 (Buffer Zone) A-3 (Buffer Zone)
97
29.10.06 21.58 16.09 19.53 12.12 9.03 10.70
7.11.06 23.64 18.23 22.52 13.27 10.24 12.05
12.11.06 25.74 17.54 21.58 14.45 9.85 12.14
18.11.06 19.31 9.25 12.87 10.84 6.35 8.54
When assessed air quality is compared to the prescribed standards, it was observed that
SPM and RSPM values were very near to the standards, while sulphur dioxide and oxides of
nitrogen were always found to be much lower than the standards. The minimum readings
were observed during rainy days. The construction work in nearby areas also contributed
in the SPM and RSPM values, which resulted in sometimes high values of these parameters.
The results confirm that the particulate load generated by traffic and construction activities
remain as aerosol for longer period of time. The smaller the particulate, larger is the time it
stays in suspension (RSPM). The detailed results indicate that night‐time ambient air was
usually better than that of morning and afternoon due to lesser traffic density.
7.3.4 WATER QUALITY
The water quality forms the essential component of EIA that help to identify and evaluate
critical impacts / issues with a view to suggest appropriate mitigation measures for
implementation.
7.3.4.1 Sampling Stations:
To assess the water quality of the proposed area, 8 stations were selected.
7.3.4.2 Sampling Frequency and Sampling Techniques:
As per the standard practice, one sample from each station was taken each month (24
samples) in the season commencing from September 2006 to November 2006. Sampling
was done by standard sampling technique as per the Standard Methods (AWWA & APHA).
Necessary precautions were taken for preservation of samples.
The physical parameters viz. pH, temperature and conductivity were measured at the site
using portable water analyzer (Orion). Dissolved oxygen was fixed on the spot as per
Winkler’s method. The parameters (defined in IS – 2490; Standard) for identified water
discharge on inland surface water etc., except metals were analysed as per procedures
98
defined in IS – 2488 and “Standard Method for Water and Waste Water Analysis” (AWWA,
APHA).
7.3.4.3 Results:
As is evident from the sampling locations, water quality assessment represents both
surface and groundwater. The results are presented in Table 19.
Core Zone: Core zone is taken as proposed project site.
Surface Water: There is no surface water body in the core zone.
Groundwater: The groundwater was collected from hand pump near the proposed site.
The water drawn from the proposed site (W1) from a hand pump (undeveloped source)
indicates that it can be safely used for drinking purposes. The physico chemical parameters
are all within stipulated standards defined for drinking purposes IS:10500.
The pH of the sample was 7.6. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) was 850 mg/l.
The Alkalinity was observed to be 172 mg/l. The Hardness value was 256 mg/l. The
concentration of Calcium ions was 80.0 mg/l. The Magnesium ion concentration was
observed as 3.32 mg/l. The concentration of Chlorides in groundwater at proposed project
site was 33.99 mg/l. The Sulphate value was observed as 26.67 mg/l. The Nitrate value was
observed as 1.5 mg/l. The Phosphate was insignificant (<1 mg/l) in groundwater at the
proposed project site. Residual Chlorine was not detected in the sample.
The pH (7.6), Turbidity (2 NTU), Hardness (256 mg/l), chloride (33.99 mg/l), all conform
the basic requirements of a water intended for domestic use. Nitrogen, phosphorus, iron
are within stipulated quality. Fluorides are <1.0 mg/l. Recommendations are that fluorides
vary between 0.5 – 1.5 mg/l. Free ammonical nitrogen, Kjeldahl nitrogen have not been
detected. BOD value are also <3.0 mg/l. The solids concentration was high in the sample.
Buffer Zone: Area within 10 km radius around the proposed project site.
Surface Water: There is river Yamuna and few drains as surface water body in 10 km
radius of the proposed site.
The drain sample showed 1100 mg/l of TDS, 216 mg/l of alkalinity, 112 mg/l of BOD and
317 mg/l of COD. The concentrations for chloride, sulphate and TKN were 87.97, 53.98 and
22 mg/l respectively.
The Yamuna water was almost similar to that of drain sample. It showed BOD value of 67
mg/l and COD 112 mg/l. The values of TDS, alkalinity, calcium and hardness in Yamuna
water were 1260, 416, 352 and 272 mg/l respectively. The concentrations of chlorides,
sulphate and TKN were 39.98, 31.93 and 16 mg/l.
The pH of the samples ranged between 7.0 and 8.5.
99
Total Solids (TS) in groundwater varied from 260 to 1130 mg/l. Total Dissolved Solids
(TDS) was between 220 to 1030 mg/l and values for Total Suspended Solids (TSS) were
between 40 to 100 mg/l.
The Alkalinity values in buffer zone were observed between 140 to 424 mg/l. The Hardness
values were ranging between 208 to 680 mg/l.
The concentration of Calcium ion was found between 35.2 and 176 mg/l. The Magnesium
ion concentration was observed between 2.85 and 16.6 mg/l.
The concentration of Chlorides in groundwater in buffer zone was between 39.98 to 209.93
mg/l. The Sulphate values were observed to be between 23.36 to 56.28 mg/l. The Nitrate
concentration was observed between 1.2 to 1.8 mg/l. The Phosphate was insignificant (<1
mg/l) in all the groundwater samples. Residual Chlorine was not detected in any sample.
The variation in water quality is significant, the values of TDS, chlorides are higher in
shallow waters (handpumps and dugwells), whereas alkalinity and hardness values are
higher in deep waters (bore holes). In deep aquifer the ions predominant are sulphates and
bicarbonates of calcium, while in shallow waters, chlorides, bicarbonates and sulphates
were dominant.
TABLE 19: WATER QUALITY
Inland
Drinking W1 W2 W3 W4 W5 W6 W7 W8
S. surface
Parameter Unit
No Water
Water(Std)
(Std)
Physical
1 Colour Hazen 5
2 pH 6.5 ‐8.5 5.5 ‐ 9.0 7.6 8.1 7 7.5 7.3 8 8.5 8.5
3 Temparature 0c ‐‐ <5 C
0 24 25 24 25 22 24 18 12
4 Turbidity NTU 5 ‐‐ 2 2 3 3 2 3 6 6
5 T.D.S. mg/l 500 100 850 580 360 1030 770 770 1100 1260
6 Oil & gases mg/l ‐‐ 10 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND
7 Odour unobjectable ‐‐
Chemical
Dissolved
8 mg/l ‐‐ ‐‐
Oxygen
9 Alkalinity mg/l 200 ‐‐ 172 304 172 176 140 424 216 416
10 Calcium mg/l 75 ‐‐ 80.0 121.6 76.8 70.4 160 176 44.8 35.2
11 Magnesium mg/l 30 ‐‐ 3.32 10.43 4.27 2.85 16.6 5.69 5.69 10.91
Hardness as
12 mg/l 300 ‐‐ 256 480 264 224 680 536 208 272
CaCO3
13 Sodium mg/l ‐‐ ‐‐ 71.2 64.3 62.9 55.3 77.2 76.1 87.9 72.9
14 Potassium mg/l ‐‐ ‐‐ 12.3 13.2 14.4 11.3 15.6 14.5 13.5 12.2
15 Chloride mg/l 250 ‐‐ 33.99 95.97 63.4 55.6 209.9 154 87.97 39.98
16 Sulphate mg/l 200 ‐‐ 26.67 39.26 28.89 23.36 28.81 56.28 53.98 31.93
17 Nitrate mg/l 45 10 1.5 1.3 1.6 1.2 1.8 1.6 1.7 1.6
18 Fluoride mg/l 1 2 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
Dissolved
19 mg/l ‐‐ 5 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1
Phosphate
Total
20 mg/l 0.2 1 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND
Residual
100
Chlorine
Total
21 Kjeldahl mg/l ‐‐ 100 ND ND ND ND ND ND 22 16
Nitrogen
Free
22 mg/l ‐‐ 5 ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND
Ammonia
23 B.O.D. mg/l ‐‐ 30 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 112 67
24 C.O.D. mg/l ‐‐ 250 20.1 13.7 13.2 12.9 12.9 15.6 317 112
25 Iron mg/l 0.3 3 0.1 0.12 ND ND ND ND ND 0.12
7.3.5 NOISE LEVELS
7.3.5.1 Noise Measurement Locations:
Five locations were selected for the noise monitoring. One location was the site itself, while
others were chosen around the site.
7.3.5.2 Methodology:
At each station noise level was monitored for 24‐hours simultaneously. For each
measurement, dB (A) readings were taken for every 15 minutes to get Ld, Ln and Ldn.
7.3.5.3 Results:
Results are summarized in Table 20. The ambient noise level at the proposed project site
are lower as compared to other areas Delhi. During the day time, noise at project site was
54.1 dB (A). The standards for residential areas is ~ 55 dB (A). During night the noise level
at the project site was observed to be 45.3 dB (A) which is marginally higher than the night‐
time noise standards of 45 dB (A). The results of monitoring locations situated near traffic
intersections revealed high noise levels. The background noise level during day and night
was less than the prescribed standards for the ambient noise levels for residential areas.
TABLE 20: NOISE LEVELS
Day Night
Standard in dB(A) Residential 55 45
Commercial 65 55
Site Location Area Category Ld Ln Ldn
N1 On Site proposed residential 54.1 45.3 57.3
N2 INA Traffic Intersection 55.6 44.9 51.3
N3 Yusuf Sarai Residential 51.84 42.45 50.31
N4 Safdurjung Institutional 48.9 42.6 46.5
Hospital
N5 Dilli Haat Residential 48.7 44.6 47.2
Ld - Leq level in day-time, Ln - Leq level in night-time, Ldn - Leq level in day and night
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7.3.6 SOIL QUALITY
7.3.6.1 Sampling location:
To assess the soil quality of the proposed area, following stations were selected. Soil profile
and quality was studied at 8 different locations.
7.3.6.2 Sampling procedure & Analysis:
Augur method was used and samples were collected at 15 cm depth after removing the
upper crust. Samples from each spot were well mixed with hand on a clean polythene sheet.
About 500 gms of soil was retained after process of quartering. This sample was kept for
some time for air drying at room temperature, stored in polythene bag with label at the top.
Samples were analysed for bulk density, electrical conductivity, pH, nitrogen, phosphorus,
calcium, magnesium and organic contents.
7.3.6.3 Results:
Results are summarized in Table 21, which shows that soil colour was yellowish brown to
light brown and bulk density was 1.41 and porosity was 49% at proposed project site.
Electrical conductivity was 792.3 micromhos/cm and magnesium was 0.95 mg/kg. The soil
is scanty in nutrients, as nitrogen was 68 kg/ha, phosphorus was 54 kg/ha and potassium
was 82 kg/ha. The organic matter was observed to be 0.59%. As the soil is deficient in
nutrients, for growing vegetation, suitable fertilizers are required.
TABLE 21: SOIL QUALITY
Parameter S1 S2 S3 S4 S5
Colour Brown Brown Dark Brown Dark Brown Brown
Texture Loam Loam Sandy Loam Sandy Loam Sandy Loam
Bulk density 1.41 1.45 1.56 1.35 1.39
Porosity 49% 43% 44% 48% 47%
pH 7.6 7.4 7.3 7.4 7.4
Conductivity 792.3 762.2 782 820 801.2
(micromhos/cm)
N (kg/ha) 68 57 56 65 70
P (kg/ha) 54 61 60 52 51
K (kg/ha) 82 70 72 88 85
Ca (mg/kg) 19.2 22.4 16 12.8 16.0
Mg (mg/kg) 0.95 0.95 4.26 3.79 1.89
Organic matter (%) 0.59 41 43 0.44 0.55
Mg (mg/kg) 1.42 1.89 3.31
Organic matter (%) 0.59 0.47 0.51
The soil quality at other sites showed almost similar results.
102
7.3.7 FLORA AND FAUNA
Plants/animals and environment are interrelated to each other. With the change in
environmental conditions, the vegetation cover as well as animals reflects several changes
in its structure, density and composition. The present study was carried out in two separate
headings for floral and faunal community respectively.
FIGURE 16: FOREST VEGETATION OF INDIA
Floral Community: The study area was divided into two zones as given below;
i. Core Zone: within the project area
ii. Buffer Zone:
(a) 100 m radius around project area
(b) 10 km radius around the project area
Methodology: To evaluate the floral composition of the area general survey were made.
The inhabitants were also consulted to get the correct picture.
103
7.3.7.1 General Vegetation Pattern:
The prevailing vegetation cover over the area is mainly of tropical dry deciduous forest as
per the Champion and Seth (1968) “Classification of forest type of India”.
i. Core Zone: There was no vegetation within the core zone. Only a few species of
Parthenium, Acacia and Cynodon dactylon were seen.
ii. Buffer Zone :
(a) In 100 m radius around the project area:
There is no forest area in this zone. The vegetative community of the area is mainly under
open scrub and because of urbanization area is usually surrounded with planted varieties.
No threatened, rare, endangered or endemic species were observed during the survey in
this Buffer Zone (100m radius around the project area).
(b) In 10 km radius around the project area:
The portion of ridge is the protected forest area in this zone. The vegetative community of
the area is mainly under open scrub forest and because of urbanization area is usually
surrounded with planted varieties. The dominant species are babool (Acacia nilotica),
vilayati babool (Acacia sp.), neem (Azadirachta indica), Gulmohar (Cassia sp.), Safeda
(Eucalyptus), Carrot grass (Parthenium sp.), amaltas (Cassia tora), Dhatura (Datura sp.),
Arandi (Ricinus communis), ber (Zyziphus sp.), Bougainvellia, peepal (Ficus religiosa),
shisham (Dalbergia sissoo), bottle palm, bottle bush, etc. The prominent grass species is
Cynodon dactylon,
Agricultural crops: Some area of Yamuna floodplain is used for agriculture purposes. The
main crops are fruits and vegetables. No threatened, rare, endangered or endemic species
were observed during the survey in Buffer Zone (10 km radius around the project area).
7.3.7.2 Faunal Community:
A general faunal study was carried out for the core zone and buffer zone separately as
given below;
(i) Core Zone : There was no unique faunal community within the core zone of the project
area, except most common ones like rat, crow, sparrow and maina etc .
(ii) Buffer Zone:
(a) In 100 m radius around the project area
104
No threatened, rare, endangered or endemic species were observed during the survey in
Buffer Zone (100m radius around the project area).
Amphibians: Among amphibians toad (Bufo sp.) and frog (Rana tigrina) were observed
Reptiles: Among reptiles Indian garden lizards (Calotes versicolor), house lizards
(Hemidactylus sp.) were observed, while local residents claim to have seen some snake
varieties.
Aves: Among aves common birds like crow (Corves splendens), sparrow (Passer domesticus)
etc. were observed.
(b) In 10 km radius around the project area:
Amphibians: Among amphibians toad (Bufo sp.) and frog (Rana tigrina) were observed.
Reptiles: Among reptiles Indian garden lizards (Calotes versicolor), house lizards
(Hemidactylus sp.) were observed. White cobra (Naja naja) and viper (Vipera sp.) are
reported to have been seen.
Aves: Among aves common birds like crow (Corves splendens), sparrow (Passer
domesticus), parrot (Psittacula krameri), baya (Ploceus philippinus), peafowl (Pavo
cristatus), pigeon (Columba livia), Egretta sp. etc. were observed.
Many animals and birds are housed in zoo and some migratory birds visit the Yamuna
floodplain during winters.
7.3.7.3 Endangered and Threatened Species:
Endangered and threatened animals of India have been listed in the Schedule I and
Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (amended in 2001). No threatened, rare,
endangered or endemic species were observed during the survey in core zone. In buffer
zone following species were observed.
Schedule I: None of the species were recorded from Schedule I.
Schedule II:
• Birds: Peafowl‐ Pavo cristatus
• Reptiles: Indian cobra‐ Naja naja
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7.3.7.4 Fauna at Zoological Garden
On the recommendations of the Indian Board for Wildlife in 1952, the Government of India
set up a Zoological Park in the capital for the conservation and breeding of rare fauna, to
educate and provide recreation for the people. The 176 acres park presents green lawns,
grooves of trees, colourful shrubbery which blend with the informal look of a natural
woodland. The river Yamuna is about two kilometers away to the east of the park.
The soil of the National Zoological Park is very variable in character ranging from sandy to
sandy and clayey loam. A study of the general pattern of the soil profiles indicates a top
loose to hard soil with a dark carbonaceous band of soil at different depths of a very
compact nature, below it is a fairly permeable loam of brownish texture followed by a
compact clayey layer varying from a depth of 6‐ to 75 m. This is followed by grayish
Yamuna sand to sandy loam. The pH of the soil is more than 8.5 in most of the sites within
the park and the sub‐soil water table is of about 1 m, which is also quite saline.
The vegetation in and around the Zoo is of scrub jungle type with Prosopis juliflora as the
dominant tree along with few trees of Ehretia laevis and Salvadora persica. Capparis
deciduas and Capparis sepiaria are also quite common. In highly saline areas specially on
south of Purana Quila, Sueda fruiticosa is a conspicuous plant. In and around dry areas, such
as Roshan Bagh, grasses like Cenchrus ciliaris, Setaria tomentosa and Dactyloctenium
aegypticum are predominant. Ranunculus scleratus, Poa annua, Oxalis corniculata and
winter weeds like Gnaphalium indicum, Coronopus didymus and others are common in
moist shady areas.
A list of collection of animals and birds in the zoological park is given as annexure 3
106
7.3.8 LAND USE
The entire study area (10 kms radius coverage from the site) is highly urbanized. Small
pockets of sparsely populated rural/urban clusters amidst urban areas characterize the
total study area.
7.3.8.1 Land Use Pattern
The land use pattern of the area is mainly settlements, commercial, office complexes,
floodplain, industrial and open & degraded vegetation.
7.3.8.2 Yamuna Floodplain
Based on the observations recorded in and around Yamuna River in Delhi, three types of
wetland ecosystems were identified. These wetlands are (a) floodplains; (b) seasonal pool;
and (c) marshy areas. Floodplains are a stretch of flat land present in between the man‐
made embankments and the level of river channel. These areas are regularly inundated
with floodwater during the monsoons. Natural vegetation of floodplains is presently
restricted to small pockets near Wazirabad Barrage. These pockets harbour pure stands of
S. munja – a characteristic plant species of floodplains. Floodplains of Delhi region are being
used for variety of purposes which include dry season agriculture and temporary makeshift
human settlements.
Seasonal pools are formed due to filling up of water in the low‐lying areas of the river
corridor region after the monsoons, they are present predominantly on the western banks
of the river Yamuna in both Wazirabad and ITO sectors of seasonal pools. During the late
winter and summer seasons when these pools are dried up, human settlements are present
in their place. Seasonal pools are a multiple use resource, for example:
• For catching different variety of commercially important fishes for about 4‐5
months each year; and
• Serve as water hole for the cattle of local inhabitants
Water present in the seasonal pools also recharges the groundwater of the neighboring
areas in a gradual and sustainable manner.
Marshy areas are predominantly present in the Okhla sector from Chilla regulator to Okhla
Barrage. Typha angustata is the dominant plant species present in marshy areas.
Fragmentation and destruction of these areas have taken place due to construction of
NOIDA toll bridge and other civic structures. Marshy areas present in the Yamuna river
corridor provide nesting ground of many migrating waterfowl species.
107
These wetlands are spread over an area of 3250 ha. Distribution of different types of
wetlands in Yamuna river corridor is shown in schematic map below. Floodplains are the
most widespread of the wetland ecosystems present in the River Yamuna corridor in the
Delhi stretch comprising approximately 95.38% of the total area. Though marshy areas and
seasonal pools have small geographical area, they are of critical importance in providing
nurseries for the fish and nesting sites for migrating waterfowl respectively. It may be
noted that the extent of various wetland ecosystems changes seasonally. For example,
during summer season seasonal pools and marshy areas dried up and used for agriculture
and other purposes. Their extent also varies in between a particular season depending
upon the change in land use pattern brought about by anthropogenic pressures.
Existence of the wetland ecosystems in the Yamuna river corridor is threatened due to
immense anthropogenic pressures of an expanding metropolis. Major threats to the
efficient functioning of the wetland ecosystems are:
• Civic construction
• Alteration of landscape
• Pollution
• Change in nature of vegetation
• Over‐exploitation of species
• Agriculture
Several studies have shown that:
• Annually about 4.09 X 107 KL water enters the subsurface hydraulic system of the
floodplain of Yamuna river, of which 2.34 X 107 KL recharges the aquifer leading to
an increment of 0.72 m in the groundwater table. Aquifers present in the city areas
are recharged due to lateral migration of groundwater from the floodplain aquifers
to the connected aquifers in the city.
• Distinct nutrient enrichment was present in the floodplain soils with respect to
nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium between the pre‐ and post‐monsoon seasons.
• Approximate yield of S. munja and Typha from Yamuna floodplain is 7300 and
28000 bundles respectively. Dry season agriculture, cultivation of seasonal fruits
and vegetables is also practiced in the floodplain areas.
• Fish catch is approximately 1200 tonnes.
108
FIGURE 17: SCHEMATIC MAP OF WETLAND TYPES OF RIVER YAMUNA IN DELHI
Based on field surveys, 115 plant species belonging to 27 different families were identified.
Avifauna of the study area is represented by 97 species of birds, of which 56% are
migratory and are covered under the International Conventions.
109
7.3.9 SOCIO‐ECONOMIC SCENARIO
7.3.9.1 Population:
Total population of the buffer zone is approximately 4.5 lakhs as per 2001 Census of India.
There is appreciable amount of floating population in the area.
7.3.9.2 Employment and Income
As most of the male population is engaged in jobs, commercial activities, office work and
shopkeepers, there is no unemployment problem in the area as 70% of population is
literate.
Middle ‐ class people go to other areas of Delhi and nearby areas for services. Some have
shops. Lower class people depend on daily wage employment for which they go to other
areas of Delhi and nearby areas.
The proposed project will generate employment for unskilled people as labours and also
after the completion of project as service personnel like gardener, safai wala etc.
7.3.10 TRAFFIC DENSITY
With an ever increasing urbanization, road traffic is also increasing. The traffic density at
different points of approach to the project site is given in Table 22. The data indicate that
traffic density near the site is much lower than other sites.
TABLE 22: TRAFFIC DENSITY
Car/
Time LTV Truck /Bus Two Wheeler Others
Near Site (Ring Road)
10.00 12.00 6675 390 23376 113
14.00 to 16.00 6623 384 24328 202
17.00 to 19.00 8669 450 29496 211
20.00 to 0.00 5004 232 20229 101
040.0 to 09.00 3293 153 14439 107
Near Site (Aurobindo Marg)
10.00 12.00 5564 280 11700 20
14.00 to 16.00 3388 362 11340 14
110
17.00 to 19.00 6676 360 22260 12
20.00 to 0.00 3284 480 11116 02
4.0 to 9.0 1380 282 10488 14
Lodhi Road Crossing
10.00 12.00 2840 200 9600 20
14.00 to 16.00 2640 180 7640 22
17.00 to 19.00 3320 260 12200 40
20.00 to 0.00 2720 176 9600 40
4.0 to 9.0 3200 240 13000 20
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7.4 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT
The perusal of the information reveals that the project has positive as well as negative
impacts. The study undertaken for the office complex, indicates that generation of
employment opportunities, infrastructure development and commercial activities will have
positive effects.
The negative impacts of the project will be mitigated/prevented/controlled. Most of them
would be transitory in nature.
Planning:
The planning phase will consider the landscaping, plantation and pollution
mitigation/control measures.
Construction:
Ground leveling will lead to generation of dust and gaseous emissions from the
earthmoving machinery. No tree will be felled, however, some bushes at the site will be
removed.
Activities like earthwork, civil construction, electrical fittings, mechanical installations and
sanitary fittings will produce dust, exhaust gases, solid wastes and noise.
PostConstruction:
During maintenance and operation, power generation and activities will produce wastes,
which need special attention. During operation when power fails, DG sets would be
operational and will generate exhaust gases, which will disperse in the atmosphere through
adequate stack height.
Table 23 gives a checklist for the potential impacts of the project:
TABLE 23: OVERVIEW OF THE POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF THE PROJECT
112
trees/vegetation
iv Shifting of utilities √
v Impact on √
archaeological
property
B Construction Phase
i Pressure on local √ √
infrastructure
ii Contamination of Soil √
iii Impact on water √
quality
iv Impact on air quality √
including
dust generation
v Noise pollution √
vi Traffic congestion and √
loss of
access
vii Staking and disposal √
of construction
material
viii Public health and √
safety
ix Social impact √
C Operational Phase
i Increase in air and √
noise levels
ii Disposal of waste √
water
iii Disposal of solid waste √
landscape waste
iv Induced development √
v Quality of life √
7.4.1 AIR POLLUTION/EMISSION INTO THE ATMOSPHERE
Air pollution happens due to release of air emissions into the atmosphere. There are two
sources in the project area.
i. Earthwork and Materials storage, handling and transfer during construction
ii. DG sets
113
7.4.1.1 Dust from Materials Handling:
During construction activity there will be use of materials as given in chapter 2. These
materials will be transported by trucks to the site. At site, it will be handled manually and
by tractor trolley. As most of the materials are dry solids, there will be air pollution during
their handling at different stages.
7.4.1.2 Emissions from DG sets:
Project authorities proposed to install five DG sets of 310 KVA capacity each. Diesel will be
used as fuel. The burning of diesel will emit flue gases (particulate matter, SO2 and NOx).
The stack for discharging the emissions from the DG sets is proposed to be up to
recommended height prescribed by CPCB.
The data collected was interpreted for before and after project impacts. Regression
techniques were used to interpolate the data for future. Regression techniques and curve
fitting attempt to find functions that describe the relationship among variables. In effect,
they attempt to build mathematical models of a data set.
Gaussian type of fit:
The Gaussian model is used for fitting peaks, and for one peak, is given by the equation
a*exp(‐((x‐b)/c2)
Where a is the amplitude,
b is the centroid (location),
c is related to the peak width.
For an example that fits two Gaussian peaks and an exponential background,
a1*exp(‐((x‐b1)/c1)2) + a2*exp(‐((x‐b2)/c2)2
The main source was considered to be DG sets. Pollution added due to the DG sets was
estimated. Though it is to be remembered that DG sets do not run all the time i.e. they are
intermittent sources of pollution. Following graphs show before and after project
conditions of air quality:
114
FIGURE 18: NOX CONCENTRATION BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROJECT
FIGURE 19: RSPM CONCENTRATION BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROJECT
115
FIGURE 20: SO2 CONCENTRATION BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROJECT
FIGURE 21: CONCENTRATION BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROJECT
116
7.4.2 WASTEWATER GENERATION
In the office complex, water shall be used mainly for plumbing and sanitary purposes in
toilets and washbasins etc. Therefore, wastewater discharge shall be mainly sewage. The
wastewater (approx. 55.2 KLD of usual sewage composition) will be discharged into local
sewerage network. It will not drastically affect the quality of wastewater in the sewer line.
The sewer line usually carries more concentration of pollutants than that generated from a
typical office complex.
It should therefore be concluded there should be no significant impact on surface water
quality & hydrology of the area. The proposed rainwater harvesting scheme will stabilize
the groundwater table in the area.
Following are the most susceptible locations for contamination of water during
construction:
• Low lying areas that have water in them during the period of construction;
• Surface and ground water resources close to construction material storage yard,
concrete mixer plants and maintenance sites of construction vehicles; and
Within the vicinity of project site no major / designated water body is present and
moreover all the construction related activities are confined to the enclosed area of 30,000
m2, hence no major impact on the water bodies in project influenced area are anticipated.
7.4.3 SOLID WASTE GENERATION
7.4.3.1 During Construction Work
Solid wastes are generated from the following operations:
i. Earth work‐Temporary
ii. Rejects from Construction activity‐ Temporary
iii. Garbage‐produced by labourers residing at the site
From the information given by the project authorities and the data collected during the
study, estimates for the solids waste generation are made as presented below:
Approx. 80 tonnes of solid wastes will be generated during construction.
7.4.3.2 Regular garbage production
Total complex will generate around 380 kg/day (approx.) of solid waste.
The soil generated during construction will be used for landscaping and filling up of low‐
lying areas.
117
The office waste generated shall be collected in bins. These bins will be emptied into the
main bin of the floor. From bins of each floor garbage will be collected by service provider
and waste shall be discharged to main bin of the area.
7.4.4 NOISE
Noise is perceived as one of the most undesirable consequences of construction activity.
Though the level of discomfort caused by noise is subjective, the most commonly reported
impacts of increased noise levels are interference in oral communication and disturbance
in sleep.
Due to the various construction activities, there will be short‐term noise impacts in the
immediate vicinity of the project site. The construction activities include:
• Operation of DG sets, concreting and mixing
• Excavation for foundations with driller (if used);
• Construction plant and heavy vehicle movement.
Since the project site is bounded by open land, the impact will de diluted. Whatever
minimal impact due to noise pollution is anticipated, it will be further minimized by
ensuring that no noise generating activity is carried out during night hours.
7.4.5 SOCIO‐ECONOMIC CONDITION
Air emission, water effluent, soil and noise, as a result of the existence of the complex will
be well within the permissible limits and shall not have any adverse effect on the health and
socio – economic aspects of people inhabiting the core and buffer zone.
Apart from employment as labourers during construction, following advantages will be
availed by the local people:
• Infrastructure development
• Electrification.
• Water table stabilization due to rainwater harvesting
• Green belt development in the area.
118
7.5 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
The Environment Management Plan would consist of all mitigation measures for each item
wise activity to be undertaken during the construction, operation and the entire life cycle to
minimize adverse environmental impacts as a result of the activities of the project.
Air Pollution/Emission into the Atmosphere
i. Earthwork and Materials storage, handling and transfer during construction
ii. DG sets
Dust from Materials Handling:
The materials will be transported by trucks to the site. At site, it will be handled manually
and by tractor trolley. As most of the materials are dry solids, there will be air pollution
during their handling at different stages. To keep the air quality within the permissible limit
there will be regular sprinkling of water during earth work and construction. Cement bags
shall be placed in covered area. Sand and bricks shall be covered with gunny bags to avoid
dispersion of material in air.
Emissions from DG sets:
Project authorities proposed to install two DG sets (310 KVA X 5). Diesel will be used as
fuel. The burning of diesel will emit flue gases (particulate matter, SO2 and NOx). The
adequate combustion will be provided for burning of diesel.
The stack for discharging the emissions from the DG sets is proposed to be up to
recommended height prescribed by CPCB (Height of building + 3.5 m for 310 KVA DG, Table
27, Annexure 1).
Wastewater Generation
In the office complex, water shall be used mainly for flushing and drinking purposes.
Therefore, wastewater discharge shall be mainly sewage. Total quantity of wastewater
generation is likely to be 55.2 KLD. The generated sewage will be collected and discharged
into local sewerage network.
119
Solid Waste Generation
During Construction Work
Solid wastes are generated from the following operations:
• Earth work‐Temporary
• Rejects from Construction activity‐ Temporary
• Garbage‐produced by labourers residing at the site
From the information given by the project authorities and the data collected during the
study, estimates for the solids waste generation are made as presented below:
Approx. 80 tonnes of solid wastes will be generated during construction.
Regular garbage production
Total residential complex will generate around 380 kg/day (approx.) of solid waste.
The garbage generated shall be collected in bins. These bins will be emptied into the main
bin of the complex. From here garbage will be collected by service provider and waste shall
be discharged to landfill site of the area.
Noise
In the office complex noise is produced due to DG sets operation and due to vehicles
movement. The DG sets will be covered by acoustic covering to minimize impacts of noise.
Overall noise levels will be well with in the permissible limit.
SocioEconomic Condition
Air emission, water effluent, soil and noise, as a result of the existence of the complex will
be well within the permissible limits and shall not have any adverse effect on the health and
socio – economic aspects of people inhabiting the core and buffer zone.
Apart from employment as labours during construction, following advantages will be
availed by the local people:
• Infrastructure development
• Electrification.
• Water table stabilization due to rainwater harvesting
• Green belt development in the area.
Landscaping
120
Landscaping is an important element in altering the microclimate of a place. Proper
landscaping reduces direct sun from striking and heating up building surfaces, prevents
reflected light carrying heat into a building from the ground or surfaces, creates different
airflow patterns and can be used to direct or divert the wind advantageously by causing a
pressure difference and shade created by trees and the effects of grass and shrubs reduce
air temperature adjoining the building and provide evaporative cooling. Properly designed
roof gardens help to reduce heat loads in a building. A study shows that the ambient air
under a tree adjacent to the wall is about 20 C to 2.50 C lower than that for unshaded areas.
The land, at present is not used for any purpose. There will be landscaping in 14262.61 m2
area with lawns and ornamental plants. Trees shall be planted at all the open spaces. The
landscaping plan is elaborate for the region.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rain is nectar of life and life cannot sustain without it. Ever increasing demands of water
for domestic, irrigation as well as industrial sectors have created water crisis worldwide.
Groundwater is only dependable source of water. Due to rapid urbanization, infiltration of
rainwater into the sub‐soil has decreased drastically and recharging of groundwater has
diminished. Over‐exploitation of groundwater resources has resulted in decline in water
levels in most parts of the country. Inferior quality of groundwater with high salinity,
fluoride and nitrate contents further limit the availability of fresh water assets. Therefore, it
has become essential to adopt rainwater harvesting, artificial recharge, storage and
watershed management. Some advantages of rainwater harvesting are:
• Enhance availability of groundwater at specific place and time
• Augment the groundwater storage and control decline of water levels
• Improves the quality of groundwater through dilution
• Removes bacteriological and other impurities from sewage and wastewater
• Save energy required for lifting of groundwater and reduce power consumption of
0.4 KWH
• Avoid flooding of roads
• Reduces the runoff which is choking the storm drains
• Meet ever increasing demand for water in the urban areas
• Reduces groundwater pollution
• Reduces the soil erosion
• The structures required for harvesting of rainwater are simple, economical and
ecofriendly
The average annual rainfall of the area is 723.9 mm. For water conservation point of view,
it is essential to use rainwater for recharging of ground water. The proposed rainwater
harvesting system will consist of percolation pits with 250‐300 mm dia boreholes in the
middle of the pit. UPVC pipe of 160 mm dia perforated will be lowered in the middle of the
boreholes and the pit will be filled with gravels and pebbles in three layers of 500 mm each
consisting of boulders, gravel and coarse sand. The mouth of the UPVC pipe shall be
protected to avoid silt getting into it. The depth of the bore will depend on the soil
condition/water strata. There will be two boreholes.
For water conservation point of view, it is essential to use rainwater for recharging of
ground water. The proposed rainwater harvesting system will consist of network of pipes,
catch basins and manholes and deposited of into rainwater harvesting structures.
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Risk Assessment
The office complex will be made earthquake resistant.
Following precautions shall be taken to prevent any hazard due to diesel storage:
• Diesel will be kept at properly defined place and would have approval of concerned
authorities.
• To avoid any fire, smoking or lighting of matchstick will not be allowed at least
within 10 m radius of the storage.
• The manpower will be trained for taking precaution to avoid the fire.
• Safety measures will be prominently displayed at all the relevant places.
Fire Protection System
It is being designed as per National Building Code Part IV, 2005 edition. A centralized water
tank for entire residential complex and several overhead fire water tanks will be provided
on terrace.
The jockey pump is to keep the system pressurized at all times. All fire pumps would start
automatically through the pressure switches mounted on the pressure vessels installed in
the basement. Jockey pump would stop automatically as soon as the pre‐set pressure is
reached. Other fire pumps would have manual stop only.
Main components of fire protection system are:
• Wet Risers
• Fire Brigade connections
• Automatic Sprinklers
• Portable Fire Extinguishers
• Manual Call points
• Smoke ventilation
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7.6 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
On the basis of information provided, data procured from the various Government
agencies, census report, IMD etc. and the data generated and analysis of generated
information, the following generalized conclusions can be drawn.
1. The construction will cover 7073.34 m2 on the ground out of plot area of 30918.31
m2. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 48 crores.
2. The project is to be completed in 24 months.
3. BSES‐Transco Ltd. will provide necessary power to meet the requirement of the
office complex, which is 3.09 MW. A power back‐up shall be provided installing five DG Sets
of 310 KVA capacity each.
4. Sufficient water would be made available through tubewells/municipal supply and
necessary storage will be done underground as well as in overhead tanks.
5. Ambient air quality is within the prescribed standards except for marginally high
SPM (value high is due to semi‐arid zone prevailing conditions and other developmental
activities in the area). The recognized sources of Air pollution in the area are transport
system and diesel generators. The DG sets will be the only point source of air pollution, and
discharge would be through sufficiently high rise stacks.
6. The sewage is only source of water pollution from the project.
7. Acoustic enclosures of DG sets have been proposed. Proposers also plan to
motivate visitors not to honk in complex area. Free flow of vehicles will be maintained.
8. The impacts, which have been identified in the planning, development and
construction phase, will be transitory and enough provisions have been made to mitigate
them. The final phase will have both positive and negative impacts. The infrastructure
development, Commercial activities and rainwater harvesting are positive impacts, where
as liquid waste generation and solid waste are negative impacts. Liquid waste will be
discharged into public sewer, where as solid waste will be managed through composting
and landfill at designated sites.
9. A green belt of adequate width and density will be maintained in the total project
area.
10. Water fountain will be provided to improve aesthetic look.
123
BIBLIOGRAPHY
3. METCALF & EDDY; Waste Water Engineering: Treatment and Reuse, Tata Mc Graw‐
Hill, New Delhi (2003).
4. GARG SK; Water Engineering, Khanna Publications, New Delhi (2004).
5. GARG SK, Waste Water Engineering, Khanna Publications, New Delhi (2004).
6. Rapid EIA of “OVL Office Complex”, New Delhi , Submitted to MOEF; M/s. Ultra
Tech, Thane (2004).
7. Environmental Impact Assessment, Ambi Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, Submitted
to MOEF; Ambience Developers Private Limited, New Delhi (2006).
10. Indian Standard Drinking Water – Specification (BIS 10500: 1991).
11. Standards for Diesel Generator Sets, Stack Height; Central Pollution Control Board
(CPCB), New Delhi (1987).
12. Standards and Guidelines for Control of Noise Pollution from Stationary Diesel
Generator (DG) Sets; Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), New Delhi (1997).
13. National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS); Central Pollution Control Board
(CPCB), New Delhi (1994).
14. Paul Mac Berthouex, Linfield C. Brown, Statistics for Environmental Engineers,
Lewis Publishers
15. Alan Pentecost, Analyzing Environmental Data, Longman Publishers
124
Annexure
125
ANNEXURE 1: ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS
TABLE 24: NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS
126
TABLE 25: AMBIENT NOISE QUALITY STANDARDS
127
TABLE 26: INDIAN STANDARD DRINKING WATER ‐ SPECIFICATION (BIS 10500: 1991)
128
Stack Height for Diesel Generator Sets
For more than 800 KW generator set:
As per the Notification, Dated 9th July 2002, G.S.R. 489(E) for more than 800 KW
generators set, stack height shall be the maximum of the following:
i. 14 * Q 0.3, where Q = Total SO2 emission from the plant in kg/hr
ii. Minimum 6 m above the building where generator set is installed
iii. 30 m
Other cases:
The minimum height of stack to be provided with each generator set can be worked out
using the following formula:
0.2 √
Where,
H = Total height of stack in meter
h = Height of the building in meters where the generator set is installed
KVA = Total generator capacity of the set in KVA
Based on the above formula the minimum stack height to be provided with different range
of generator sets may be categorized as follows:
TABLE 27: STACK HEIGHTS FOR GENERATORS
For generator sets Total height of stack in meter
50 KVA Ht. of the building + 1.5 meter
50100 KVA Ht. of the building + 2.0 meter
100150 KVA Ht. of the building + 2.5 meter
150200 KVA Ht. of the building + 3.0 meter
200250 KVA Ht. of the building + 3.5 meter
250300 KVA Ht. of the building + 3.5 meter
Similarly for higher KVA ratings a stack height can be worked out using the above formula.
129
(B) Mandatory acoustic enclosure/acoustic treatment of room for stationary DG sets
(5 KVA and above)
Noise from the DG set should be controlled by providing an acoustic enclosure on by
treating the room acoustically.
The acoustic enclosure/acoustic treatment of the room should be designed for minimum 25
dB(A) Insertion Loss or for meeting the ambient noise standards, whichever is on the
higher side (if the actual ambient noise is on the higher side, it may not be possible to check
the performance of the acoustic enclosure/acoustic treatment. Under such circumstances
the performance may be checked for noise reduction upto actual ambient noise level,
preferably, in the night time). The measurement for Insertion Loss may be done at different
points at 0.5m from the acoustic enclosure/room, and then averaged.
The DG set should also be provided with proper exhaust muffler with Insertion Loss of
minimum 25 dB(A).
(C) Guidelines for the manufacturers/users of DG sets 5 KVA and above)
01 The manufacturer should offer to the user a standard acoustic enclosure of 25 dB(A)
Insertion Loss and also a suitable exhaust muffler with Insertion Loss of 25 dB(A).
03 The manufacturer should furnish noise power levels of the unsilenced DG sets as per
standards prescribed under (A).
04 The total sound power level of a DG set, at the user's end, shall be within 2 dB(A) of the total
sound power level of the DG set, at the manufacturing stage, as prescribed under (A).
05 Installation of a DG set must be strictly in compliance with the recommendation of the DG set
manufacturer.
06 A proper routine and preventive maintenance procedure for the DG set should be set and
followed in consultation with the DG set manufacturer which would help prevent noise levels
of the DG set from deteriorating with use.
Noise Limit For Generator Sets Run With Diesel
1. Noise limit for diesel generator sets (upto 1000 KVA) manufactured on or after the
1st
July, 2004.
The maximum permissible sound pressure level for new diesel generator (DG) sets with
rated capacity up to 1000 KVA, manufactured on or after the 1st July, 2004 shall be 75
dB(A) at 1 meter from the enclosure surface. The diesel generator sets should be provided
130
with integral acoustic enclosure at the manufacturing stage itself. The implementation of
noise limit for these diesel generator sets shall be regulated as given in paragraph 3 below.
2. Noise limit for DG sets not covered by paragraph 1.
Noise limits for diesel generator sets not covered by paragraph 1, shall be as follows:
i. Noise from DG set shall be controlled by providing an acoustic enclosure or by
treating the room acoustically, at the users end.
ii. The acoustic enclosure or acoustic treatment of the room shall be designed for
minimum 25 dB (A) insertion loss or for meeting the ambient noise standards,
whichever is on the higher side (if the actual ambient noise is on the higher side, it
may not be possible to check the performance of the acoustic enclosure/acoustic
treatment. Under such circumstances the performance may be checked for noise
reduction upto actual ambient noise level, preferably, in the night time). The
measurement for Insertion Loss may be done at different points at 0.5 m from the
acoustic enclosure/room, and then averaged.
iii. The DG set shall be provided with proper exhaust muffler with insertion loss of
minimum 25 dB(A).
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ANNEXURE 2: FORM 1/ 1A FOR CASE STUDY BUILDING
APPENDIX I
(See paragraph – 6)
FORM 1
Name of the Project: Office Complex
Size of the Project: 30,000 Sqmt (Plot Area)
Expected cost of the project: Rs 49 Crores
Contact Information: The Chief Engineer
Screening Category: B1
(II) Activity
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1.15 Facilities for treatment or disposal of solid Yes Only disposal , not treatment
waste or liquid effluents?
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altered routes and stations, ports, airports etc?
1.20 New or diverted transmission lines or Yes New electricity, water and
pipelines? sewer lines to be laid
1.24 Changes in water bodies or the land surface No
affecting drainage or run‐off?
1.27 Ongoing activity during decommissioning Yes Noise, Dust generated during
which could have an impact on the decommissioning
environment?
1.28 Influx of people to an area in either Yes 2200 People (approx) to come
temporarily or permanently? to work during office hours
1.31 Any other actions?
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2. Use of Natural resources for construction or operation of the Project (such as
land, water, materials or energy, especially any resources which are non
renewable or in short supply):
Details thereof (with
approximate quantities
S.No. Information/checklist confirmation Yes/No
/rates, wherever possible)
with source of information
data
2.1 Land especially undeveloped or agricultural Yes 30,000 Sq mt (Plot Area)
land (ha)
2.2 Water (expected source & competing Yes Source‐ Ground Water. One
users) unit: KLD bore hole, 50 mm diameter.
Pumping rate for water 10
pumps 25 HP (each).
1200(no of employees)* 45 L
+ 1000 (Visitors)*15 L= 69
KLD
2.3 Minerals (MT) Yes Red Sand Stone, White Sand
Stone, White Marble, Black
Granite, Terrazzo, Agaria
White, Pink Plain Marble, Kota
Stone Slab
2.4 Construction material – stone, aggregates, sand Yes Stone aggregate ( 34,000 cu
soil (expected source – MT) m) Sand (25,000 cu m.)
2.5 Forests and timber (source – MT) Yes 25mm thick Plywood ( 425
sqm) Source‐ Factory
manufacturing plywood
2.6 Energy including electricity and fuels Yes Electrical Load 100 watts per
(source, competing users) Unit: fuel (MT), sqm. (100 * 30,000 W)
energy (MW)
30,000 W= 3 MW
2.7 Any other natural resources (use No
appropriate standard units)
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3. Use, storage, transport, handling or production of substances or
3.1 Use of substances or materials, which are hazardous No
(as per MSIHC rules) to human health or the
environment (flora, fauna, and water supplies)
3.3 Affect the welfare of people e.g. by changing living No
conditions?
3.4 Vulnerable groups of people who could be affected None
by the project e.g. hospital patients, children, the
elderly etc.,
3.5 Any other causes No
decommissioning (MT/month)
4.4 Other industrial process wastes No
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4.5 Surplus product No
4.8 Redundant machinery or equipment No
4.9 Contaminated soils or other materials No
4.10 Agricultural wastes No
4.11 Other solid wastes No
5.1 Emissions from combustion of fossil fuels from Yes 5 DG sets (310 KVA)
stationary or mobile sources
Max noise permitted (CPCB
standards) 75 dB (A) at 1
metre from the enclosure
surface for new
generators.
Noise generated (max)= 375
db(A).
5.2 Emissions from production processes No
5.6 Emissions from incineration of waste No
5.7 Emissions from burning of waste in open air (e.g. No
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slash materials, construction debris)
5.8 Emissions from any other sources No
6.2 From industrial or similar processes No
6.4 From blasting or piling No
7.1 From handling, storage, use or spillage of hazardous No
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materials
7.2 From discharge of sewage or other effluents to No Sewage to be discharged in
water or the land (expected mode and place of the waste water drain
discharge)
7.3 By deposition of pollutants emitted to air into the No
land or into water
7.4 From any other sources No
7.5 Is there a risk of long term build up of pollutants in No
the environment from these sources?
8.2 From any other causes No
8.3 Could the project be affected by natural disasters Yes Project in Seismic Zone IV
causing environmental damage (e.g. floods,
earthquakes, landslides, cloudburst etc)?
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stimulated by the project which could have impact
on the environment e.g.:
• Supporting infrastructure (roads, power supply,
waste or waste water treatment, etc.)
• housing development
• extractive industries
• supply industries
• other
9.2 Lead to after‐use of the site, which could have an No
impact on the environment
9.3 Set a precedent for later developments No
9.4 Have cumulative effects due to proximity to other No
existing or planned projects with similar effects
Tughlakabad Fort‐ 9 Km
Lal Quila‐ 11 Km
Jama Masjid‐ 4 Km
Qutub Minar‐ 8 Km
Lodhi Garden – 2.5 Km
India Gate, Rajpath‐ 5 Km
Purana Quila‐ 6 Km
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Jantar Mantar‐ 10 Km
Safdarjang Tomb‐ 2 Km
2 Areas which are important or sensitive for Yes Delhi Ridge Forest – 3 Km
ecological reasons ‐ Wetlands, watercourses or
other water bodies, coastal zone, biospheres, Yamuna River‐ 9 Km
mountains, forests
3 Areas used by protected, important or sensitive Yes Delhi Ridge Forest – 3 Km
species of flora or fauna for breeding, nesting,
foraging, resting, over wintering, migration Okhla Barrage‐ 13 Km
Haryana‐ 13 Km
to recreation or other tourist, pilgrim areas Tughlakabad Fort‐ 9 Km
Lal Quila‐ 11 Km
Jama Masjid‐ 9 Km
Qutub Minar‐ 8 Km
Lodhi Garden – 2.5 Km
India Gate, Rajpath‐ 5 Km
Purana Quila‐ 6 Km
Safdarjang Tomb‐ 2 Km
Jantar Mntar‐ 7 Km
Akshardham Temple‐ 10 Km
9 Areas occupied by sensitive man‐made land uses Yes AIIMS, Safdarjang- 1 Km
(hospitals, schools, places of worship, community Moolchand- 1 Km
facilities) Escorts – 2 Km
Apollo- 10 Km
Jama Masjid- 9 Km
Chataarpur – 10 Km
Jama Masjid- 10 Km
Sacred Heart Cathedral- 7
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Km
Bangla Sahib- 7 Km
ISKCON- 5 Km
Lotus Temple- 6 Km
Birla Mandir- 3 Km
Many Schools (like DPS,
Mother’s International) and
community facilities in the
15 km radius.
10 Areas containing important, high quality or scarce Yes Delhi Ridge Forest – 3 Km
resources
(earthquakes, subsidence, landslides, erosion, flooding
or extreme or adverse climatic conditions)
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FORM1 A
CHECK LIST OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
1. LAND ENVIRONMENT
Will the existing landuse get significantly altered from the project that is not consistent
with the surroundings? (Proposed landuse must conform to the approved Master Plan /
Development Plan of the area. Change of landuse if any and the statutory approval from the
competent authority be submitted). Attach Maps of (i) site location, (ii) surrounding
features of the proposed site (within 500 meters) and (iii)the site (indicating levels &
contours) to appropriate scales. If not available attach only conceptual plans.
Area near AIIMS Flyover, New Delhi, has been allotted for building area from the
authorities. As such, there is no activity related to forest or agriculture, in the area,
therefore existing landuse will not get significantly altered from the project. There is no
change is landuse.
Map of panoramic view of the project site with surrounding features and conceptual plan is
enclosed.
1.2. List out all the major project requirements in terms of the land area, built up area,
water consumption, power requirement, connectivity, community facilities, parking needs
etc.
Major project requirements are as follows:
Plot area 30,000 m2
Ground Coverage 7500 m2
Water Consumption 69 KLD
Electricity requirement 3 MW
Parking Area 2500 m2
1.3. What are the likely impacts of the proposed activity on the existing facilities
adjacent to the proposed site? (Such as open spaces, community facilities, details of the
existing landuse, disturbance to the local ecology).
Existing facility will not be drastically affected. The complex will have adequate open
spaces, parking facility and other facilities, so it will not burden the outside area. There is
no change in landuse.
1.4. Will there be any significant land disturbance resulting in erosion, subsidence &
instability? (Details of soil type, slope analysis, vulnerability to subsidence, seismicity etc
may be given).
It is a office complex and it will not affect the soil type, slope and seismicity of the area. The
area lies in Zone IV of Earthquake intensity, therefore, housing complex will be earthquake
resistant.
1.5. Will the proposal involve alteration of natural drainage systems? (Give details on a
contour map showing the natural drainage near the proposed project site)
There will not be any alteration in the natural drainage pattern. The map showing
panoramic view of the project site, also provides a glimpse of natural drainage pattern.
143
1.6. What are the quantities of earthwork involved in the construction activity‐cutting,
filling, reclamation etc. (Give details of the quantities of earthwork involved, transport of fill
materials from outside the site etc.)
The earthwork includes stone aggregates and sand. They will be transported from the
outside and their expected quantities will be 34,000 and 25,000 m3 respectively.
1.7. Give details regarding water supply, waste handling etc during the construction
period.
During construction, water requirements will be met by borewell.
1.8. Will the low lying areas & wetlands get altered? (Provide details of how low lying
and wetlands are getting modified from the proposed activity)
The project will not affect the low lying areas and wetlands.
1.9. Whether construction debris & waste during construction cause health hazard?
(Give quantities of various types of wastes generated during construction including the
construction labour and the means of disposal)
No, they will be managed properly and safely.
2. WATER ENVIRONMENT
2.1. Give the total quantity of water requirement for the proposed project with the
breakup of requirements for various uses. How will the water requirement met? State the
sources & quantities and furnish a water balance statement.
Source of water – borewell (one)
Water requirements
Sanitary & Drinking ‐ 69.0 KLD
Only regular discharge of wastewater is sewage coming out from domestic sources and its
quantity will be approximately 55.2 KLD and it will be discharged into local sewerage
network.
2.2. What is the capacity (dependable flow or yield) of the proposed source of water?
Approximately 69 KLD.
2.3. What is the quality of water required, in case, the supply is not from a municipal
source? (Provide physical, chemical, biological characteristics with class of water quality)
Supply will be from one borewell.
2.4. How much of the water requirement can be met from the recycling of treated
wastewater? (Give the details of quantities, sources and usage)
At present, there is no plan to reuse or recycle the wastewater. It is an office complex, it will
be occupied for 5 days a week and about 9 hours per working day. In such condition
wastewater generation will be limited to that period. Since, most of the treatment systems
are based on bacterial activity and bacteria along with other micro‐organisms require
144
continuous feed in the form of nutrients present in wastewater. Therefore, it is difficult to
treat wastewater of this complex with conventional sewage treatment technologies.
Moreover, the sewage from office complex contains less concentration of pollutants than
domestic sewage.
2.5. Will there be diversion of water from other users? (Please assess the impacts of the
project on other existing uses and quantities of consumption)
No.
2.6. What is the incremental pollution load from wastewater generated from the
proposed activity? (Give details of the quantities and composition of wastewater generated
from the proposed activity)
The wastewater (approx. 55.2 KLD of usual sewage composition) will be discharged into
local sewerage network. It will not drastically affect the quality of wastewater in the sewer
line. The sewer line usually carries more concentration of pollutants than that generated
from a typical office complex.
2.7. Give details of the water requirements met from water harvesting? Furnish details
of the facilities created.
The rainwater from the terrace, paved and road areas will be collected in catch basins and
disposed off into the external storm water drain at selected locations.
The rooftop rainwater harvesting is proposed through a network of pipes, catch basins and
manholes.
2.8. What would be the impact of the land use changes occurring due to the proposed
project on the runoff characteristics (quantitative as well as qualitative) of the area in the
post construction phase on a long term basis? Would it aggravate the problems of flooding
or water logging in any way?
Runoff will be efficiently managed through stormwater management and rainwater
harvesting mechanisms. It will lessen the problem of flooding and water logging.
2.9. What are the impacts of the proposal on the ground water? (Will there be tapping of
ground water; give the details of ground water table, recharging capacity, and approvals
obtained from competent authority, if any)
The water requirement will be met from groundwater. The groundwater table will be
somewhat stabilized due to rainwater harvesting scheme. The groundwater table in the
area is 28‐30 m below ground and is depleting.
2.10. What precautions/measures are taken to prevent the run‐off from construction
activities polluting land & aquifers? (Give details of quantities and the measures taken to
avoid the adverse impacts)
Construction activity will be stopped during rainfall and no material will be stored in path
of stormwater.
145
2.11. How is the storm water from within the site managed?(State the provisions made to
avoid flooding of the area, details of the drainage facilities provided along with a site layout
indication contour levels)
Stormwater and rainwater harvesting has been planned for the project.
2.12. Will the deployment of construction labourers particularly in the peak period lead to
unsanitary conditions around the project site (Justify with proper explanation)
No, proper sanitation facility will be provided to construction workers.
2.13. What on‐site facilities are provided for the collection, treatment & safe disposal of
sewage? (Give details of the quantities of wastewater generation, treatment capacities with
technology & facilities for recycling and disposal)
The wastewater from the toilets and washbasins will be brought down to the ground level
at number of points all around the plot. For collecting and disposing the wastewater, it is
proposed to lay sewer line for collecting the sewage and carry it for disposal into the local
sewerage network laid outside the plot. The sewer is designed for running half full.
2.14. Give details of dual plumbing system if treated waste used is used for flushing of
toilets or any other use.
At present, there is no proposal of wastewater treatment and its reuse.
VEGETATION
3.1. Is there any threat of the project to the biodiversity? (Give a description of the local
ecosystem with it’s unique features, if any)
The area near to project site does not have any significant biodiversity and proposed
project will not affect the existing biodiversity.
3.2. Will the construction involve extensive clearing or modification of vegetation?
(Provide a detailed account of the trees & vegetation affected by the project)
No, the plot is almost a barren land.
3.3. What are the measures proposed to be taken to minimize the likely impacts on
important site features (Give details of proposal for tree plantation, landscaping, creation of
water bodies etc along with a layout plan to an appropriate scale)
Tree plantation will be done all along the boundary wall and internal road sides.
Landscaping will be done on 1500 m2 area.
4. FAUNA
4.1. Is there likely to be any displacement of fauna‐ both terrestrial and aquatic or
creation of barriers for their movement? Provide the details.
No, there is no significant fauna in the area.
4.2. Any direct or indirect impacts on the avifauna of the area? Provide details.
146
No.
4.3. Prescribe measures such as corridors, fish ladders etc to mitigate adverse impacts
on fauna
Not applicable.
5. AIR ENVIRONMENT
5.1. Will the project increase atmospheric concentration of gases & result in heat
islands? (Give details of background air quality levels with predicted values based on
dispersion models taking into account the increased traffic generation as a result of the
proposed constructions)
The project after operation will lead to slight increase in atmospheric concentration of
gases and particulate matter. At present, all the parameters related to ambient air quality
remain below or near the prescribed limit because there is not much activity in the area.
The pollution load generation from the vehicles will be minimized with the help of better
traffic management inside the complex.
The effect of heat island will be minimized with plantation and landscaping.
5.2. What are the impacts on generation of dust, smoke, odorous fumes or other
hazardous gases? Give details in relation to all the meteorological parameters.
The concentration of gases and particulate matter will be lower or near to prescribed limits
even after operation phase. It will not affect the health of nearby residents.
5.3. Will the proposal create shortage of parking space for vehicles? Furnish details of
the present level of transport infrastructure and measures proposed for improvement
including the traffic management at the entry & exit to the project site.
Parking location has been presented in layout map. Proposed parking facility is
more than required car parking.
5.4. Provide details of the movement patterns with internal roads, bicycle tracks,
pedestrian pathways, footpaths etc., with areas under each category.
Internal roads and footpaths have been presented in layout plan.
5.5. Will there be significant increase in traffic noise & vibrations? Give details of the
sources and the measures proposed for mitigation of the above.
Traffic noise will not increase due to better traffic management and adequate parking
space.
5.6. What will be the impact of DG sets & other equipment on noise levels & vibration in
& ambient air quality around the project site? Provide details.
The DG sets (5X310 KVA) will only be used in case of power failure. They will be placed in
acoustic enclosures and will be fitted with stacks of recommended heights.
6. AESTHETICS
6.1. Will the proposed constructions in any way result in the obstruction of a view,
scenic amenity or landscapes? Are these considerations taken into account by the
proponents?
147
No, the project will not obstruct a scenic amenity or landscape.
6.2. Will there be any adverse impacts from new constructions on the existing
structures? What are the considerations taken into account?
There is no structure on the plot and in nearby area.
6.3. Whether there are any local considerations of urban form & urban design
influencing the design criteria? They may be explicitly spelt out.
Urban form and design have been considered such as:
Low rise development
Developing a distinct identity
Creating a vibrant center
Creating interlinked urban spaces
Defining public and private territories
Diversity in built form
All public facilities like fire protection, parking, lawns
Creating buffer between the quite residential and noisy main roads
6.4. Are there any anthropological or archaeological sites or artefacts nearby? State if
any other significant features in the vicinity of the proposed site have been considered.
Nearest archaeological site is Safdarjung Tomb, situated about two kms away from project
site.
7. SOCIO‐ECONOMIC ASPECTS
7.1. Will the proposal result in any changes to the demographic structure of local
population? Provide the details.
No, the office complex will have only floating population.
7.2. Give details of the existing social infrastructure around the proposed project.
The area is one of the most developed area in the NCR Delhi. It has excellent infrastructure.
7.3. Will the project cause adverse effects on local communities, disturbance to sacred
sites or other cultural values? What are the safeguards proposed?
It will benefit the local population with its infrastructure.
8. BUILDING MATERIALS
8.1. May involve the use of building materials with high‐embodied energy. Are the
construction materials produced with energy efficient processes? (Give details of energy
conservation measures in the selection of building materials and their energy efficiency)
Most of the quality grade building material production facilities and industries now use
energy efficient processes.
8.2. Transport and handling of materials during construction may result in pollution,
noise & public nuisance. What measures are taken to minimize the impacts?
148
The area has much developed road‐network, so transportation of materials will not affect a
large population. Building materials will be covered during transportation and dusty roads
will be sprinkled with water at regular intervals.
8.3. Are recycled materials used in roads and structures? State the extent of savings
achieved?
Road construction will use flyash, if easily available. Cement industries and brick
manufacturing units use flyash in their production.
8.4. Give details of the methods of collection, segregation & disposal of the garbage
generated during the operation phases of the project.
The garbage will be collected and segregated by designated person and its management
will be done with the help of Municipal system.
9. ENERGY CONSERVATION
9.1. Give details of the power requirements, source of supply, backup source etc. What is
the energy consumption assumed per square foot of built‐up area? How have you tried to
minimize energy consumption?
Source of Power – BSES‐Transco Ltd.
Power requirement – 3 MW
Backup source – 5 DG sets, 5 X 310 KVA
Energy Consumption/m2 of builtup area – 100 Watt/ m2
Measures to minimize energy consumption:
Maximum use of sunlight
Use of energy efficient lamps
DG sets are controlled by PLC panel
Illumination level in different area is as per NBC
9.2. What type of, and capacity of, power back‐up to you plan to provide?
DG sets – 5 nos. 5 X 310 KVA
9.3. What are the characteristics of the glass you plan to use? Provide specifications of
its characteristics related to both short wave and long wave radiation?
Plain glasses
9.4. What passive solar architectural features are being used in the building? Illustrate
the applications made in the proposed project.
Solar light will come through windows and will maintain required illumination level in
almost all the rooms.
9.5. Does the layout of streets & buildings maximise the potential for solar
energy devices? Have you considered the use of street lighting, emergency lighting and
solar hot water systems for use in the building complex? Substantiate with details.
No
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9.6. Is shading effectively used to reduce cooling/heating loads? What principles have
been used to maximize the shading of Walls on the East and the West and the Roof? How
much energy saving has been effected?
Tree canopy will be provided all around the complex.
9.7. Do the structures use energy‐efficient space conditioning, lighting and mechanical
systems? Provide technical details. Provide details of the transformers and motor
efficiencies, lighting intensity and air‐conditioning load assumptions? Are you using CFC
and HCFC free chillers? Provide specifications.
Space conditioning will be provided as per norms of National Building Code Part 8. The
chillers will be CFC and HCFC‐free.
9.8. What are the likely effects of the building activity in altering the micro‐climates?
Provide a self assessment on the likely impacts of the proposed construction on creation of
heat island & inversion effects?
There will not be drastic effect on micro‐climate and inversion process. Inversion is
frequent in the area during winter season. Heat island effect will be mitigated through
plantation and landscaping.
9.9. What are the thermal characteristics of the building envelope? (a) roof; (b) external
walls; and (c) fenestration? Give details of the material used and the U‐values or the R
values of the individual components.
U value of individual components are as follows:
Wall 9” brick in plaster 0.36 BTU/hr/ft2/0F
13.5” brick in plaster 0.28 BTU/hr/ft2/0F
9” stone without plaster 0.67 BTU/hr/ft2/0F
13.5” stone without plaster0.55 BTU/hr/ft2/0F
Glass 1.13 BTU/hr/ft2/0F
9.10. What precautions & safety measures are proposed against fire hazards? Furnish
details of emergency plans.
Precautions and safety measures against fire hazards will be as per National
Building Code and guidelines of local authorities.
9.11. If you are using glass as wall material provides details and specifications including
emissivity and thermal characteristics.
U factor of glass will be 1.13 BTU/hr/ft2/0F
9.12. What is the rate of air infiltration into the building? Provide details of how you are
mitigating the effects of infiltration.
It is not significant.
9.13. To what extent the non‐conventional energy technologies are utilised in the overall
energy consumption? Provide details of the renewable energy technologies used.
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None
10. Environment Management Plan
The Environment Management Plan would consist of all mitigation measures for each item
wise activity to be undertaken during the construction, operation and the entire life cycle to
minimize adverse environmental impacts as a result of the activities of the project.
Air Pollution/Emission into the Atmosphere
Air pollution happens due to release of air emissions into the atmosphere. There are two
sources in the project area.
i) Earthwork and Materials storage, handling and transfer during construction
ii) DG sets
Dust from Materials Handling:
The materials will be transported by trucks to the site. At site, it will be handled manually
and by tractor trolley. As most of the materials are dry solids, there will be air pollution
during their handling at different stages. To keep the air quality within the permissible limit
there will be regular sprinkling of water during earth work and construction. Cement bags
shall be placed in covered area. Sand and bricks shall be covered with gunny bags to avoid
dispersion of material in air.
Emissions from DG sets:
Project authorities proposed to install two DG sets (310 KVA X 5). Diesel will be used as
fuel. The burning of diesel will emit flue gases (particulate matter, SO2 and NOx). The
adequate combustion will be provided for burning of diesel.
The stack for discharging the emissions from the DG sets is proposed to be up to
recommended height prescribed by CPCB.
Wastewater Generation
In the office complex, water shall be used mainly for flushing and drinking purposes.
Therefore, wastewater discharge shall be mainly sewage. Total quantity of wastewater
generation likely to be 55 KLD. The generated sewage will be collected and discharged into
local sewerage network.
Solid Waste Generation
During Construction Work
Solid wastes are generated from the following operations:
Earth work‐Temporary
Rejects from Construction activity‐ Temporary
Garbage‐produced by labours residing at the site
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From the information given by the project authorities and the data collected during the
study, estimates for the solids waste generation are made as presented below:
Approx. 80 tonnes of solid wastes will be generated during construction.
Regular garbage production
Total residentail complex will generate around 380 kg/day (approx.) of solid waste.
The soil generated during construction will be used for landscaping and filling up of low‐
lying areas.
The garbage generated shall be collected in bins. These bins will be emptied into the main
bin of the complex. From here garbage will be collected by service provider and waste shall
be discharged to landfill site of the area.
Noise
In the office complex noise is produced due to DG sets operation and due to vehicles
movement. The DG sets will be covered by acoustic covering to minimize impacts of noise.
Overall noise levels will be well with in the permissible limit.
Socio‐Economic Condition
Air emission, water effluent, soil and noise, as a result of the existence of the complex will
be well within the permissible limits and shall not have any adverse effect on the health and
socio – economic aspects of people inhabiting the core and buffer zone.
Apart from employment as labours during construction, following advantages will be
availed by the local people:
Infrastructure development
Electrification.
Water table stabilization due to rainwater harvesting
Green belt development in the area.
Landscaping
The land, at present is not used for any purpose. There will be landscaping in 14262.61 m2
area with lawns and ornamental plants. Trees shall be planted at all the open spaces. The
landscaping plan is elaborate for the region.
RAINWATER HARVESTING
For water conservation point of view, it is essential to use rainwater for recharging of
ground water. The proposed rainwater harvesting system will consist of network of pipes,
catch basins and manholes and deposited of into rainwater harvesting structures.
Risk Assessment
The office complex will be made earthquake resistant.
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Following precautions shall be taken to prevent any hazard due to diesel storage:
Diesel will be kept at properly defined place and would have approval of concerned
authorities.
To avoid any fire, smoking or lighting of matchstick will not be allowed at least within 10 m
radius of the storage.
The manpower will be trained for taking precaution to avoid the fire.
Safety measures will be prominently displayed at all the relevant places.
Fire Protection System
It is being designed as per National Building Code Part IV, 2005 edition. A centralized water
tank for entire residential complex and several overhead fire water tanks will be provided
on terrace.
The jocky pump is to keep the system pressurized at all times. All fire pumps would start
automatically through the pressure switches mounted on the pressure vessels installed in
the basement. Jocky pump would stop automatically as soon as the pre‐set pressure is
reached. Other fire pumps would have manual stop only.
Main components of fire protection system are:
Wet Risers
Fire Brigade connections
Automatic Sprinklers
Portable Fire Extinguishers
Manual Call points
Smoke ventilation
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ANNEXURE 3: LIST OF COLLECTION OF ANIMALS AND BIRDS
IN ZOOLOGICAL PARK
TABLE 28: LIST OF COLLECTION OF ANIMALS AND BIRDS IN ZOOLOGICAL PARK
Schedule I (Wildlife Protection Act)
Common Name Zoological name
Birds
Great Indian Hornbill Buceros bicornis
White Peafowl Pavo cristatus
White Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia
Mammals
Black Buck Antelope cervicapra
Cat Fishing Felis viverrina
Cat Leopard Felis bengalensis
Chinkara Gazella bennetti
Chausinga Tetraceros quadricornis
Brow‐antlered Deer Cervus eldi
Swamp Deer Cervus duvauceli
Indian Elephant Elephus maximus
Hoolock Gibbon Hylobates hoolock
Leopard Panthera pardus
Indian Lion Panthera leo persica
Lion tailed Macaque Macaca silenus
Indian one‐horned Rhinoceros Rhinoceros unicornis
Bengal Tiger Panthera tigris tigris
India Wolf Canis lupus pallipes
Reptiles
Gharial Gavialis gangeticus
Marsh Crocodile Crocodilus palustris
Indian Rock Python Python molurus molurus
Reticulated Python Python reticulata
Schedule II (Wildlife Protection Act)
Common Name Zoological name
Birds
Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger
Comb Nukta Duck Sarkidiornis melanotas
Shoveller Duck Anas clypeata
Spot Bill Duck Anas poecilorhyncha
Cattle Erget Bubulcus ibis
Little Erget Bubulcs garzetta
White Ibis Threskiornis melonocephala
Red Wattled Lapwing Vanellus indicus
Indian Moorhen Gallinula chloropus
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White Pelican Pelecanus anocrotalus
Painted Stork Ibis leucocephalus
Mammals
Himalayan Black Bear Selonarctos thibetanus
Sloth Bear Melursus ursinus
Indian Small Civet Viverricula indica
Common Palm Civet Paradoxurus hermaphroditus
Jackal Canis aureus
Common Langur Presbytis entellus
Assamese Macaque Macaca radiata
Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta
Stump tailed Macaque Macaca speciosa
Smooth Indian Otter Lutra perspicillata
Indian Porcupine Hystrix indica
Reptiles
Cobra Naja naja
King Cobra Ophlophagus Hannah
Monitor Lizard Varanus bengalensis
General Fauna
Common Name Zoological name
Birds
Cassowary Casuarinus casuaris
Cockatiel Nymphicus holliandicus
Bare Eyed Cockatoo Kokatoe sanguinea
Lesser Cockatoo Kokatoe sulphurea
Moluccan Cockatoo Kokatoe moluccensis
Crowned Crane Balearica pavonina
Sarus Crane Grus antigone
Emu Dromiceius novchollandiae
Greater Flamingo Phoenicoprerus roseus
Red Jungle Fowl Gallus gallus
Grey Heron Ardea cincerea
Peach Faced Love Bird Agapornis roseicolls
Illiger’s Macaw Ara maracana
Military Macaw Ara militaris
Scarlet Macaw Ara macao
Barn Owl Tyto alba
Great Horned Owl Bubo bubo
Rose Ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri
Plum Headed Parakeet Psittacula cyanocephala
Electus Parrot Ecectus rotatus
Grey Partiridge Francolinus pondicerianeus
Kalij Indian Pheasant Lophura leucomelana
Kalij Nepal Pheasant Lophura sp.
Silver Pheasant Lophura nycthemerus
Ring Necked Pheasant Phasianus colchius
Japanese Green Pheasant Phasianus versicdor
Imperial Pigeon Ducula aenea
Shikra Accipiter badius
Adjutant Stork Leptoptilos dubius
Black Necked Stork Xenorynchus asiaticus
155
Lesser Stork Leptoptilos javanicus
White Stork Ciconia ciconia
Black Swan Atreta chenopsis
White Throated Thrust Garrulax albogularis
Mammals
Hamadryas Baboon Papio hamadryas
Banteng Bos banteng
Cape African Buffalo Syncerus caffer
Chimpanzee Pan troglodytes
Barking Deer Muntiacus muntjak
Hog Deer Axis porcinus
Sambar Deer Cervus unicolor
Sika Deer Cervus Nippon
Spotted Deer Axis axis
Elephant Loxodonta africana
African Giraffe Giraffe camelopardalis
Goral Nemorhaedus goral
Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibious
Striped Hyaena Hyaena hyaena
Jaguar Panthera onca
Red Lechwe Kobus leche leche
African Lion Panthera leo leo
Mithun Box gaurus frontalis
Blue Bull Nilgai Boselaphus tragocamelus
Wild Boar Sus scrofa
Reptiles
Sand Boa Eryx conicus
Red Sand Boa Eryx johnii
Royal Snake Spalerosophis diadema
Tortoise Geochelone sp.
Americal Alligator Alligator missisippiensis
Spectaled Caiman Caiman crocodilus
156
ANNEXURE 4: EIA NOTIFICATION, 2006
(Published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part-II, and Section 3, Sub-section (ii)
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS
Notification
S.O. 1533 Whereas, a draft notification under subrule (3) of Rule 5 of the
Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 for imposing certain restrictions and
prohibitions on new projects or activities, or on the expansion or modernization of existing
projects or activities based on their potential environmental impacts as indicated in the
Schedule to the notification, being undertaken in any part of India1, unless prior
environmental clearance has been accorded in accordance with the objectives of National
Environment Policy as approved by the Union Cabinet on 18th May, 2006 and the
procedure specified in the notification, by the Central Government or the State or Union
territory Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA), to be constituted by
the Central Government in consultation with the State Government or the Union territory
Administration concerned under sub‐section (3) of section 3 of the Environment
(Protection) Act, 1986 for the purpose of this notification, was published in the Gazette of
India ,Extraordinary, Part II, section 3, sub‐section (ii) vide number S.O. 1324 (E) dated the
15th September ,2005 inviting objections and suggestions from all persons likely to be
affected thereby within a period of sixty days from the date on which copies of Gazette
containing the said notification were made available to the public;
And whereas, copies of the said notification were made available to the public on
15th September, 2005;
And whereas, all objections and suggestions received in response to the above
mentioned draft notification have been duly considered by the Central Government;
Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub‐section (1) and clause (v)
of sub‐section (2) of section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, read with clause
(d) of sub‐rule (3) of rule 5 of the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 and in
supersession of the notification number S.O. 60 (E) dated the 27th January, 1994, except in
respect of things done or omitted to be done before such supersession, the Central
Government hereby directs that on and from the date of its publication the required
construction of new projects or activities or the expansion or modernization of existing
projects or activities listed in the Schedule to this notification entailing capacity addition
with change in process and or technology shall be undertaken in any part of India only after
the prior environmental clearance from the Central Government or as the case may be, by
157
the State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority, duly constituted by the Central
Government under sub‐section (3) of section 3 of the said Act, in accordance with the
procedure specified hereinafter in this notification.
_________________________
1Includes the territorial waters
All new projects or activities listed in the Schedule to this notification;
(ii) Expansion and modernization of existing projects or activities listed in the
Schedule to this notification with addition of capacity beyond the limits specified for
the concerned sector, that is, projects or activities which cross the threshold limits
given in the Schedule, after expansion or modernization;
(iii) Any change in product ‐ mix in an existing manufacturing unit included in Schedule beyond
the specified range.
3. State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority: (1) A State Level Environment
Impact Assessment Authority hereinafter referred to as the SEIAA shall be constituted by the
Central Government under sub‐section (3) of section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
comprising of three Members including a Chairman and a Member – Secretary to be nominated by
the State Government or the Union territory Administration concerned.
The Member‐Secretary shall be a serving officer of the concerned State Government or Union
territory administration familiar with environmental laws.
The other two Members shall be either a professional or expert fulfilling the eligibility criteria
given in Appendix VI to this notification.
158
One of the specified Members in sub‐paragraph (3) above who is an expert in the Environmental
Impact Assessment process shall be the Chairman of the SEIAA.
The State Government or Union territory Administration shall forward the names of the Members
and the Chairman referred in sub‐ paragraph 3 to 4 above to the Central Government and the
Central Government shall constitute the SEIAA as an authority for the purposes of this notification
within thirty days of the date of receipt of the names.
The non‐official Member and the Chairman shall have a fixed term of three years (from the date of
the publication of the notification by the Central Government constituting the authority).
All decisions of the SEIAA shall be unanimous and taken in a meeting.
4. Categorization of projects and activities:
(i) All projects and activities are broadly categorized in to two categories ‐ Category A and
Category B, based on the spatial extent of potential impacts and potential impacts on human health
and natural and man made resources.
(ii) All projects or activities included as Category ‘A’ in the Schedule, including expansion and
modernization of existing projects or activities and change in product mix, shall require prior
environmental clearance from the Central Government in the Ministry of Environment and
Forests (MoEF) on the recommendations of an Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) to be constituted
by the Central Government for the purposes of this notification;
(iii) All projects or activities included as Category ‘B’ in the Schedule, including expansion and
modernization of existing projects or activities as specified in sub paragraph (ii) of paragraph 2, or
change in product mix as specified in sub paragraph (iii) of paragraph 2, but excluding those which
fulfill the General Conditions (GC) stipulated in the Schedule, will require prior environmental
clearance from the State/Union territory Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). The
SEIAA shall base its decision on the recommendations of a State or Union territory level Expert
Appraisal Committee (SEAC) as to be constituted for in this notification. In the absence of a duly
constituted SEIAA or SEAC, a Category ‘B’ project shall be treated as a Category ‘A’ project;
5. Screening, Scoping and Appraisal Committees:‐
The same Expert Appraisal Committees (EACs) at the Central Government and SEACs
(hereinafter referred to as the (EAC) and (SEAC) at the State or the Union territory level
shall screen, scope and appraise projects or activities in Category ‘A’ and Category ‘B’
respectively. EAC and SEAC’s shall meet at least once every month.
(a) The composition of the EAC shall be as given in Appendix VI. The SEAC at the State
or the Union territory level shall be constituted by the Central Government in consultation
with the concerned State Government or the Union territory Administration with identical
composition;
159
(b) The Central Government may, with the prior concurrence of the concerned State
Governments or the Union territory Administrations, constitutes one SEAC for more than
one State or Union territory for reasons of administrative convenience and cost;
(c) The EAC and SEAC shall be reconstituted after every three years;
(d) The authorised members of the EAC and SEAC, concerned, may inspect any site(s) connected
with the project or activity in respect of which the prior environmental clearance is sought, for the
purposes of screening or scoping or appraisal, with prior notice of at least seven days to the
applicant, who shall provide necessary facilities for the inspection;
(e) The EAC and SEACs shall function on the principle of collective responsibility. The
Chairperson shall endeavour to reach a consensus in each case, and if consensus cannot be
reached, the view of the majority shall prevail.
6. Application for Prior Environmental Clearance (EC):
An application seeking prior environmental clearance in all cases shall be made in the prescribed
Form 1 annexed herewith and Supplementary Form 1A, if applicable, as given in Appendix II, after
the identification of prospective site(s) for the project and/or activities to which the application
relates, before commencing any construction activity, or preparation of land, at the site by the
applicant. The applicant shall furnish, along with the application, a copy of the pre‐feasibility
project report except that, in case of construction projects or activities (item 8 of the Schedule) in
addition to Form 1 and the Supplementary Form 1A, a copy of the conceptual plan shall be
provided, instead of the pre‐feasibility report.
7. Stages in the Prior Environmental Clearance (EC) Process for New Projects:
7(i) The environmental clearance process for new projects will comprise of a maximum of four
stages, all of which may not apply to particular cases as set forth below in this notification. These
four stages in sequential order are:‐
Stage (1) Screening (Only for Category ‘B’ projects and activities)
Stage (2) Scoping
Stage (3) Public Consultation
Stage (4) Appraisal
I. Stage (1) Screening:
In case of Category ‘B’ projects or activities, this stage will entail the scrutiny of an
application seeking prior environmental clearance made in Form 1 by the concerned State
level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) for determining whether or not the project or
activity requires further environmental studies for preparation of an Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) for its appraisal prior to the grant of environmental clearance
depending up on the nature and location specificity of the project . The projects requiring
160
an Environmental Impact Assessment report shall be termed Category ‘B1’ and remaining
projects shall be termed Category ‘B2’ and will not require an Environment Impact
Assessment report. For categorization of projects into B1 or B2 except item 8 (b), the
Ministry of Environment and Forests shall issue appropriate guidelines from time to time.
II. Stage (2) Scoping:
(i) “Scoping”: refers to the process by which the Expert Appraisal Committee in the case
of Category ‘A’ projects or activities, and State level Expert Appraisal Committee in the case
of Category ‘B1’ projects or activities, including applications for expansion and/or
modernization and/or change in product mix of existing projects or activities, determine
detailed and comprehensive Terms Of Reference (TOR) addressing all relevant
environmental concerns for the preparation of an Environment Impact Assessment (EIA)
Report in respect of the project or activity for which prior environmental clearance is
sought. The Expert Appraisal Committee or State level Expert Appraisal Committee
concerned shall determine the Terms of Reference on the basis of the information
furnished in the prescribed application Form1/Form 1A including Terns of Reference
proposed by the applicant, a site visit by a sub‐ group of Expert Appraisal Committee or
State level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned only if considered necessary by the
Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned, Terms
of Reference suggested by the applicant if furnished and other information that may be
available with the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee
concerned. All projects and activities listed as Category ‘B’ in Item 8 of the Schedule
(Construction/Township/Commercial Complexes /Housing) shall not require Scoping and
will be appraised on the basis of Form 1/ Form 1A and the conceptual plan.
(ii) The Terms of Reference (TOR) shall be conveyed to the applicant by the Expert
Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee as concerned within sixty
days of the receipt of Form 1. In the case of Category A Hydroelectric projects Item 1(c) (i)
of the Schedule the Terms of Reference shall be conveyed along with the clearance for pre‐
construction activities .If the Terms of Reference are not finalized and conveyed to the
applicant within sixty days of the receipt of Form 1, the Terms of Reference suggested by
the applicant shall be deemed as the final Terms of Reference approved for the EIA studies.
The approved Terms of Reference shall be displayed on the website of the Ministry of
Environment and Forests and the concerned State Level Environment Impact Assessment
Authority.
III. Stage (3) Public Consultation:
161
(i) “Public Consultation” refers to the process by which the concerns of local affected
persons and others who have plausible stake in the environmental impacts of the project
or activity are ascertained with a view to taking into account all the material concerns in
the project or activity design as appropriate. All Category ‘A’ and Category B1 projects or
activities shall undertake Public Consultation, except the following:‐
modernization of irrigation projects (item 1(c) (ii) of the Schedule).
all projects or activities located within industrial estates or parks (item 7(c) of the
Schedule) approved by the concerned authorities, and which are not disallowed in such
approvals.
expansion of Roads and Highways (item 7 (f) of the Schedule) which do not involve any
further acquisition of land.
(d) all Building /Construction projects/Area Development projects and Townships
(item 8).
(e) all Category ‘B2’ projects and activities.
(f) all projects or activities concerning national defence and security or involving other
strategic considerations as determined by the Central Government.
(ii) The Public Consultation shall ordinarily have two components comprising of:‐
(a) a public hearing at the site or in its close proximity‐ district wise, to be carried out in
the manner prescribed in Appendix IV, for ascertaining concerns of local affected persons;
(b) obtain responses in writing from other concerned persons having a plausible stake in the
environmental aspects of the project or activity.
(iii) the public hearing at, or in close proximity to, the site(s) in all cases shall be
conducted by the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or the Union territory Pollution
Control Committee (UTPCC) concerned in the specified manner and forward the
proceedings to the regulatory authority concerned within 45(forty five ) of a request to the
effect from the applicant.
162
(iv) in case the State Pollution Control Board or the Union territory Pollution Control
Committee concerned does not undertake and complete the public hearing within the
specified period, and/or does not convey the proceedings of the public hearing within the
prescribed period directly to the regulatory authority concerned as above, the regulatory
authority shall engage another public agency or authority which is not subordinate to the
regulatory authority, to complete the process within a further period of forty five days,.
(v) If the public agency or authority nominated under the sub paragraph (iii) above
reports to the regulatory authority concerned that owing to the local situation, it is not
possible to conduct the public hearing in a manner which will enable the views of the
concerned local persons to be freely expressed, it shall report the facts in detail to the
concerned regulatory authority, which may, after due consideration of the report and
other reliable information that it may have, decide that the public consultation in the case
need not include the public hearing.
(vi) For obtaining responses in writing from other concerned persons having a plausible stake in
the environmental aspects of the project or activity, the concerned regulatory authority and the
State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or the Union territory Pollution Control Committee (UTPCC)
shall invite responses from such concerned persons by placing on their website the Summary EIA
report prepared in the format given in Appendix IIIA by the applicant along with a copy of the
application in the prescribed form , within seven days of the receipt of a written request for
arranging the public hearing . Confidential information including non‐disclosable or legally
privileged information involving Intellectual Property Right, source specified in the application
shall not be placed on the web site. The regulatory authority concerned may also use other
appropriate media for ensuring wide publicity about the project or activity. The regulatory
authority shall, however, make available on a written request from any concerned person the Draft
EIA report for inspection at a notified place during normal office hours till the date of the public
hearing. All the responses received as part of this public consultation process shall be forwarded to
the applicant through the quickest available means.
(vii) After completion of the public consultation, the applicant shall address all the
material environmental concerns expressed during this process, and make appropriate
changes in the draft EIA and EMP. The final EIA report, so prepared, shall be submitted by
the applicant to the concerned regulatory authority for appraisal. The applicant may
alternatively submit a supplementary report to draft EIA and EMP addressing all the
concerns expressed during the public consultation.
IV. Stage (4) Appraisal:
(i) Appraisal means the detailed scrutiny by the Expert Appraisal Committee or State
Level Expert Appraisal Committee of the application and other documents like the Final
EIA report, outcome of the public consultations including public hearing proceedings,
submitted by the applicant to the regulatory authority concerned for grant of
environmental clearance. This appraisal shall be made by Expert Appraisal Committee or
State Level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned in a transparent manner in a
163
proceeding to which the applicant shall be invited for furnishing necessary clarifications in
person or through an authorized representative. On conclusion of this proceeding, the
Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned shall
make categorical recommendations to the regulatory authority concerned either for grant
of prior environmental clearance on stipulated terms and conditions, or rejection of the
application for prior environmental clearance, together with reasons for the same.
(ii) The appraisal of all projects or activities which are not required to undergo public
consultation, or submit an Environment Impact Assessment report, shall be carried out on
the basis of the prescribed application Form 1 and Form 1A as applicable, any other
relevant validated information available and the site visit wherever the same is considered
as necessary by the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal
Committee concerned.
(iii) The appraisal of an application be shall be completed by the Expert Appraisal
Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned within sixty days of the
receipt of the final Environment Impact Assessment report and other documents or the
receipt of Form 1 and Form 1 A, where public consultation is not necessary and the
recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal
Committee shall be placed before the competent authority for a final decision within the
next fifteen days .The prescribed procedure for appraisal is given in Appendix V ;
7(ii). Prior Environmental Clearance (EC) process for Expansion or Modernization or
Change of product mix in existing projects:
All applications seeking prior environmental clearance for expansion with increase in
the production capacity beyond the capacity for which prior environmental clearance has
been granted under this notification or with increase in either lease area or production
capacity in the case of mining projects or for the modernization of an existing unit with
increase in the total production capacity beyond the threshold limit prescribed in the
Schedule to this notification through change in process and or technology or involving a
change in the product –mix shall be made in Form I and they shall be considered by the
concerned Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee within
sixty days, who will decide on the due diligence necessary including preparation of EIA
and public consultations and the application shall be appraised accordingly for grant of
environmental clearance.
8.Grant or Rejection of Prior Environmental Clearance (EC):
(i) The regulatory authority shall consider the recommendations of the EAC or SEAC concerned
and convey its decision to the applicant within forty five days of the receipt of the
recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee
concerned or in other words within one hundred and five days of the receipt of the final
Environment Impact Assessment Report, and where Environment Impact Assessment is not
164
required, within one hundred and five days of the receipt of the complete application with requisite
documents, except as provided below.
(ii) The regulatory authority shall normally accept the recommendations of the Expert Appraisal
Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned. In cases where it disagrees with
the recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal
Committee concerned, the regulatory authority shall request reconsideration by the Expert
Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned within forty five days
of the receipt of the recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert
Appraisal Committee concerned while stating the reasons for the disagreement. An intimation of
this decision shall be simultaneously conveyed to the applicant. The Expert Appraisal Committee
or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned, in turn, shall consider the observations of
the regulatory authority and furnish its views on the same within a further period of sixty days.
The decision of the regulatory authority after considering the views of the Expert Appraisal
Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned shall be final and conveyed to the
applicant by the regulatory authority concerned within the next thirty days.
(iii) In the event that the decision of the regulatory authority is not communicated to the
applicant within the period specified in sub‐paragraphs (i) or (ii) above, as applicable, the
applicant may proceed as if the environment clearance sought for has been granted or denied by
the regulatory authority in terms of the final recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee
or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee concerned.
(iv) On expiry of the period specified for decision by the regulatory authority under paragraph
(i) and (ii) above, as applicable, the decision of the regulatory authority, and the final
recommendations of the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee
concerned shall be public documents.
(v) Clearances from other regulatory bodies or authorities shall not be required prior to receipt of
applications for prior environmental clearance of projects or activities, or screening, or scoping, or
appraisal, or decision by the regulatory authority concerned, unless any of these is sequentially
dependent on such clearance either due to a requirement of law, or for necessary technical reasons.
(vi) Deliberate concealment and/or submission of false or misleading information or data which
is material to screening or scoping or appraisal or decision on the application shall make the
application liable for rejection, and cancellation of prior environmental clearance granted on that
basis. Rejection of an application or cancellation of a prior environmental clearance already
granted, on such ground, shall be decided by the regulatory authority, after giving a personal
hearing to the applicant, and following the principles of natural justice.
9. Validity of Environmental Clearance (EC):
The “Validity of Environmental Clearance” is meant the period from which a prior environmental
clearance is granted by the regulatory authority, or may be presumed by the applicant to have
been granted under sub paragraph (iv) of paragraph 7 above, to the start of production operations
by the project or activity, or completion of all construction operations in case of construction
projects (item 8 of the Schedule), to which the application for prior environmental clearance refers.
The prior environmental clearance granted for a project or activity shall be valid for a period of ten
years in the case of River Valley projects (item 1(c) of the Schedule), project life as estimated by
Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee subject to a maximum of
thirty years for mining projects and five years in the case of all other projects and activities.
However, in the case of Area Development projects and Townships [item 8(b)], the validity period
shall be limited only to such activities as may be the responsibility of the applicant as a developer.
This period of validity may be extended by the regulatory authority concerned by a maximum
period of five years provided an application is made to the regulatory authority by the applicant
165
within the validity period, together with an updated Form 1, and Supplementary Form 1A, for
Construction projects or activities (item 8 of the Schedule). In this regard the regulatory authority
may also consult the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee as the
case may be.
10. Post Environmental Clearance Monitoring:
(i) It shall be mandatory for the project management to submit half‐yearly compliance reports
in respect of the stipulated prior environmental clearance terms and conditions in hard and soft
copies to the regulatory authority concerned, on 1st June and 1st December of each calendar year.
(ii) All such compliance reports submitted by the project management shall be public documents.
Copies of the same shall be given to any person on application to the concerned regulatory
authority. The latest such compliance report shall also be displayed on the web site of the
concerned regulatory authority.
11. Transferability of Environmental Clearance (EC):
A prior environmental clearance granted for a specific project or activity to an applicant may
be transferred during its validity to another legal person entitled to undertake the project or
activity on application by the transferor, or by the transferee with a written “no objection” by the
transferor, to, and by the regulatory authority concerned, on the same terms and conditions under
which the prior environmental clearance was initially granted, and for the same validity period.
No reference to the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee
concerned is necessary in such cases.
12. Operation of EIA Notification, 1994, till disposal of pending cases:
From the date of final publication of this notification the Environment Impact Assessment
(EIA) notification number S.O.60 (E) dated 27th January, 1994 is hereby superseded, except in
suppression of the things done or omitted to be done before such suppression to the extent that in
case of all or some types of applications made for prior environmental clearance and pending on
the date of final publication of this notification, the Central Government may relax any one or all
provisions of this notification except the list of the projects or activities requiring prior
environmental clearance in Schedule I , or continue operation of some or all provisions of the said
notification, for a period not exceeding one year from the date of issue of this notification.
[No. J11013/56/2004IAII (I)]
(R.CHANDRAMOHAN)
JOINT SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
166
SCHEDULE
(See paragraph 2 and 7)
LIST OF PROJECTS OR ACTIVITIES REQUIRING PRIOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE
Category with threshold limit Conditions if any
Project or Activity
A B
1 Mining, extraction of natural resources and power generation (for a specified
production capacity)
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for physical survey
2 Primary Processing
3 Materials Production
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c)Secondary
metallurgical
Secondary metallurgical
processing industry
processing industry
All toxic and heavy
i.)All toxic
metal producing units
andheavymetal producing
≥ 20,000 tonnes
/annum units
<20,000 tonnes
/annum
‐
ii.)All other
non –toxic
secondary metallurgical
processing industries
>5000 tonnes/annum
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4 Materials Processing
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4(f) Leather/skin/hide New projects outside All new or expansion of Specific condition shall
processing industry the industrial area or projects located within a apply
expansion of existing notified industrial area/
units out side the estate
industrial area
5 Manufacturing/Fabrication
5(e) Petrochemical Located out side the Located in a notified Specific Condition shall apply
based processing notified industrial area/ industrial area/ estate
(processes other estate
than cracking &
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reformation and ‐
not covered under
the complexes)
5(f) Synthetic organic Located out side the Located in a notified Specific Condition shall apply
chemicals industry notified industrial area/ industrial area/ estate
(dyes & dye estate
intermediates; bulk
drugs and
intermediates
excluding drug
formulations;
synthetic rubbers;
basic organic
chemicals, other
synthetic organic
chemicals and
chemical
intermediates)
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paper and Pulp& Paper
manufacture of manufacturing industry
paper from ready
pulp with out ‐
bleaching
6 Service Sectors
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7 Physical Infrastructure including Environmental Services
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ship breaking units
7(c) Industrial estates/ If at least one industry Industrial estates housing Special condition shall apply
parks/ complexes/ in the proposed at least one Category B
areas, export industrial estate falls industry and area <500 ha.
processing Zones under the Category A,
Note:
(EPZs), Special entire industrial area
Economic Zones shall be treated as Industrial Estate of area
(SEZs), Biotech Category A, irrespective below 500 ha. and not
Parks, Leather of the area. housing any industry of
Complexes. category A or B does not
require clearance.
Industrial estates with
area greater than 500
ha. and housing at least
one Category B
industry.
Industrial estates of area>
500 ha. and not housing
any industry belonging to
Category A or B.
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7(e) Ports, Harbours ≥ 5 million TPA of cargo < 5 million TPA of cargo General Condition shall apply
handling capacity handling capacity and/or
(excluding fishing
harbours) ports/ harbours ≥10,000
TPA of fish handling
capacity
7(f) Highways i) New National High i) New State High ways; General Condition shall apply
ways; and and
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7(i) Common All projects General Condition shall apply
Municipal Solid
Waste
Management
Facility
(CMSWMF)
8 Building /Construction projects/Area Development projects and Townships
8(b) Townships and Covering an area ≥ 50 ha ++All projects under Item
Area Development and or built up area 8(b) shall be appraised as
projects. ≥1,50,000 sq .mtrs ++ Category B1
Note:‐
Any project or activity specified in Category ‘B’ will be treated as Category A, if located in whole or in
part within 10 km from the boundary of: (i) Protected Areas notified under the Wild Life (Protection)
Act, 1972, (ii) Critically Polluted areas as notified by the Central Pollution Control Board from time to
time, (iii) Notified Eco-sensitive areas, (iv) inter-State boundaries and international boundaries.
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Specific Condition (SC):
If any Industrial Estate/Complex / Export processing Zones /Special Economic Zones/Biotech Parks /
Leather Complex with homogeneous type of industries such as Items 4(d), 4(f), 5(e), 5(f), or those
Industrial estates with pre –defined set of activities (not necessarily homogeneous, obtains prior
environmental clearance, individual industries including proposed industrial housing within such estates
/complexes will not be required to take prior environmental clearance, so long as the Terms and
Conditions for the industrial estate/complex are complied with (Such estates/complexes must have a
clearly identified management with the legal responsibility of ensuring adherence to the Terms and
Conditions of prior environmental clearance, who may be held responsible for violation of the same
throughout the life of the complex/estate).
APPENDIX III
(See paragraph 7
• Identification of project & project proponent
• Brief description of nature, size, location of the project
and its importance to the country, region
• Scope of the study – details of regulatory scoping carried
out (As per Terms of Reference)
2. Project Description • Condensed description of those aspects of the project
(based on project feasibility study), likely to cause
environmental effects. Details should be provided to give
clear picture of the following:
• Type of project
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• Need for the project
Technology and process description
• Assessment of New & untested technology for the risk of
technological failure
• Base maps of all environmental components
• Assessment of significance of impacts (Criteria for
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determining significance, Assigning significance)
• Mitigation measures
5. Analysis of Alternatives • In case, the scoping exercise results in need for
(Technology alternatives:
& Site)
• Description of each alternative
• Summary of adverse impacts of each alternative
• Mitigation measures proposed for each alternative and
• Selection of alternative
• Risk assessment
• Social Impact Assessment. R&R Action Plans
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12. Disclosure of Consultants • The names of the Consultants engaged with their brief
engaged resume and nature of Consultancy rendered
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APPENDIX III A
(See paragraph 7)
CONTENTS OF SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
The Summary EIA shall be a summary of the full EIA Report condensed to ten A‐4 size
pages at the maximum. It should necessarily cover in brief the following Chapters of the full EIA
Report: ‐
1. Project Description
2. Description of the Environment
3. Anticipated Environmental impacts and mitigation measures
4. Environmental Monitoring Programme
5. Additional Studies
6. Project Benefits
7. Environment Management Plan
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APPENDIX IV
(See paragraph 7)
2. 0 The Process:
2.1 The Applicant shall make a request through a simple letter to the Member
Secretary of the SPCB or Union Territory Pollution Control Committee, in whose jurisdiction
the project is located, to arrange the public hearing within the prescribed statutory period. In
case the project site is extending beyond a State or Union Territory, the public hearing is
mandated in each State or Union Territory in which the project is sited and the Applicant
shall make separate requests to each concerned SPCB or UTPCC for holding the public
hearing as per this procedure.
2.2 The Applicant shall enclose with the letter of request, at least 10 hard copies
and an equivalent number of soft (electronic) copies of the draft EIA Report with the generic
structure given in Appendix III including the Summary Environment Impact Assessment
report in English and in the local language, prepared strictly in accordance with the Terms of
Reference communicated after Scoping (Stage-2). Simultaneously the applicant shall arrange
to forward copies, one hard and one soft, of the above draft EIA Report along with the
Summary EIA report to the Ministry of Environment and Forests and to the following
authorities or offices, within whose jurisdiction the project will be located:
2.3 On receiving the draft Environmental Impact Assessment report, the above-
mentioned authorities except the MoEF, shall arrange to widely publicize it within their
respective jurisdictions requesting the interested persons to send their comments to the
concerned regulatory authorities. They shall also make available the draft EIA Report for
inspection electronically or otherwise to the public during normal office hours till the Public
Hearing is over. The Ministry of Environment and Forests shall promptly display the
Summary of the draft Environmental Impact Assessment report on its website, and also make
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the full draft EIA available for reference at a notified place during normal office hours in the
Ministry at Delhi.
2.4 The SPCB or UTPCC concerned shall also make similar arrangements for
giving publicity about the project within the State/Union Territory and make available the
Summary of the draft Environmental Impact Assessment report (Appendix III A) for
inspection in select offices or public libraries or panchayats etc. They shall also additionally
make available a copy of the draft Environmental Impact Assessment report to the above
five authorities/offices viz, Ministry of Environment and Forests, District Magistrate etc.
3.1 The Member-Secretary of the concerned SPCB or UTPCC shall finalize the date,
time and exact venue for the conduct of public hearing within 7(seven) days of the date of
receipt of the draft Environmental Impact Assessment report from the project proponent, and
advertise the same in one major National Daily and one Regional vernacular Daily. A
minimum notice period of 30(thirty) days shall be provided to the public for furnishing their
responses;
3.2 The advertisement shall also inform the public about the places or offices where the
public could access the draft Environmental Impact Assessment report and the Summary
Environmental Impact Assessment report before the public hearing.
3.3 No postponement of the date, time, venue of the public hearing shall be undertaken,
unless some untoward emergency situation occurs and only on the recommendation of the
concerned District Magistrate the postponement shall be notified to the public through the
same National and Regional vernacular dailies and also prominently displayed at all the
identified offices by the concerned SPCB or Union Territory Pollution Control Committee;
3.4 In the above exceptional circumstances fresh date, time and venue for the public
consultation shall be decided by the Member –Secretary of the concerned SPCB or UTPCC
only in consultation with the District Magistrate and notified afresh as per procedure under
3.1 above.
4.1 The District Magistrate or his or her representative not below the rank of an
Additional District Magistrate assisted by a representative of SPCB or UTPCC, shall
supervise and preside over the entire public hearing process.
5.0 Videography
5.1 The SPCB or UTPCC shall arrange to video film the entire proceedings. A copy
of the videotape or a CD shall be enclosed with the public hearing proceedings while
forwarding it to the Regulatory Authority concerned.
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6.0 Proceedings
6.1 The attendance of all those who are present at the venue shall be noted and
annexed with the final proceedings.
6.2 There shall be no quorum required for attendance for starting the proceedings.
6.3 A representative of the applicant shall initiate the proceedings with a presentation
on the project and the Summary EIA report.
6.4 Every person present at the venue shall be granted the opportunity to seek
information or clarifications on the project from the Applicant. The summary of the public
hearing proceedings accurately reflecting all the views and concerns expressed shall be
recorded by the representative of the SPCB or UTPCC and read over to the audience at the
end of the proceedings explaining the contents in the vernacular language and the agreed
minutes shall be signed by the District Magistrate or his or her representative on the same day
and forwarded to the SPCB/UTPCC concerned.
6.5 A Statement of the issues raised by the public and the comments of the Applicant
shall also be prepared in the local language and in English and annexed to the proceedings:
6.6 The proceedings of the public hearing shall be conspicuously displayed at the
office of the Panchyats within whose jurisdiction the project is located, office of the
concerned Zila Parishad, District Magistrate ,and the SPCB or UTPCC . The SPCB or
UTPCC shall also display the proceedings on its website for general information. Comments,
if any, on the proceedings which may be sent directly to the concerned regulatory authorities
and the Applicant concerned.
7.1 The public hearing shall be completed within a period of 45 (forty five) days from
date of receipt of the request letter from the Applicant. Therefore the SPCB or UTPCC
concerned shall sent the public hearing proceedings to the concerned regulatory authority
within 8(eight) days of the completion of the public hearing .The applicant may also
directly forward a copy of the approved public hearing proceedings to the regulatory
authority concerned along with the final Environmental Impact Assessment report or
supplementary report to the draft EIA report prepared after the public hearing and public
consultations.
7.2 If the SPCB or UTPCC fails to hold the public hearing within the stipulated
45(forty five) days, the Central Government in Ministry of Environment and Forests for
Category ‘A’ project or activity and the State Government or Union Territory Administration
for Category ‘B’ project or activity at the request of the SEIAA, shall engage any other
agency or authority to complete the process, as per procedure laid down in this notification.
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APPENDIX –V
(See paragraph 7)
PROCEDURE PRESCRIBED FOR APPRAISAL
1. The applicant shall apply to the concerned regulatory authority through a simple
communication enclosing the following documents where public consultations are
mandatory: -
• Final Environment Impact Assessment Report [20(twenty) hard copies and 1 (one)
soft copy)]
• A copy of the video tape or CD of the public hearing proceedings
• A copy of final layout plan (20 copies)
• A copy of the project feasibility report (1 copy)
2. The Final EIA Report and the other relevant documents submitted by the applicant
shall be scrutinized in office within 30 days from the date of its receipt by the concerned
Regulatory Authority strictly with reference to the TOR and the inadequacies noted shall
be communicated electronically or otherwise in a single set to the Members of the EAC
/SEAC enclosing a copy each of the Final EIA Report including the public hearing
proceedings and other public responses received along with a copy of Form -1or Form 1A
and scheduled date of the EAC /SEAC meeting for considering the proposal .
3. Where a public consultation is not mandatory and therefore a formal EIA study is
not required, the appraisal shall be made on the basis of the prescribed application Form 1
and a pre-feasibility report in the case of all projects and activities other than Item 8 of the
Schedule .In the case of Item 8 of the Schedule, considering its unique project cycle , the
EAC or SEAC concerned shall appraise all Category B projects or activities on the basis
of Form 1, Form 1A and the conceptual plan and stipulate the conditions for
environmental clearance . As and when the applicant submits the approved scheme
/building plans complying with the stipulated environmental clearance conditions with all
other necessary statutory approvals, the EAC /SEAC shall recommend the grant of
environmental clearance to the competent authority.
4. Every application shall be placed before the EAC /SEAC and its appraisal completed
within 60 days of its receipt with requisite documents / details in the prescribed manner.
5. The applicant shall be informed at least 15 (fifteen) days prior to the scheduled date of
the EAC /SEAC meeting for considering the project proposal.
6. The minutes of the EAC /SEAC meeting shall be finalised within 5 working days of
the meeting and displayed on the website of the concerned regulatory authority. In case
the project or activity is recommended for grant of EC, then the minutes shall clearly list
out the specific environmental safeguards and conditions. In case the recommendations
are for rejection, the reasons for the same shall also be explicitly stated.
.
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APPENDIX VI
(See paragraph 5)
COMPOSITION OF THE SECTOR/ PROJECT SPECIFIC EXPERT APPRAISAL COMMITTEE (EAC)
FOR CATEGORY A PROJECTS AND THE STATE/UT LEVEL EXPERT APPRAISAL COMMITTEES
(SEACs) FOR CATEGORY B PROJECTS TO BE CONSTITUTED BY THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT `
1. The Expert Appraisal Committees (EAC(s) and the State/UT Level Expert Appraisal
Committees (SEACs) shall consist of only professionals and experts fulfilling the following
eligibility criteria:
Professional: The person should have at least (i) 5 years of formal University training in the
concerned discipline leading to a MA/MSc Degree, or (ii) in case of Engineering
/Technology/Architecture disciplines, 4 years formal training in a professional training course
together with prescribed practical training in the field leading to a B.Tech/B.E./B.Arch. Degree,
or (iii) Other professional degree (e.g. Law) involving a total of 5 years of formal University
training and prescribed practical training, or (iv) Prescribed apprenticeship/article ship and pass
examinations conducted by the concerned professional association (e.g. Chartered Accountancy
),or (v) a University degree , followed by 2 years of formal training in a University or Service
Academy (e.g. MBA/IAS/IFS). In selecting the individual professionals, experience gained by
them in their respective fields will be taken note of.
Expert: A professional fulfilling the above eligibility criteria with at least 15 years of relevant
experience in the field, or with an advanced degree (e.g. Ph.D.) in a concerned field and at least
10 years of relevant experience.
Age: Below 70 years. However, in the event of the non‐availability of /paucity of experts in a given
field, the maximum age of a member of the Expert Appraisal Committee may be allowed up to 75
years
2. The Members of the EAC shall be Experts with the requisite expertise and experience in the
following fields /disciplines. In the event that persons fulfilling the criteria of “Experts” are not
available, Professionals in the same field with sufficient experience may be considered:
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• Forestry and Wildlife Experts
3. The Membership of the EAC shall not exceed 15 (fifteen) regular Members. However
the Chairperson may co-opt an expert as a Member in a relevant field for a particular meeting of
the Committee.
5. The Chairperson shall nominate one of the Members as the Vice Chairperson who shall
preside over the EAC in the absence of the Chairman /Chairperson.
6. A representative of the Ministry of Environment and Forests shall assist the Committee
as its Secretary.
7. The maximum tenure of a Member, including Chairperson, shall be for 2 (two) terms of 3
(three) years each.
8. The Chairman / Members may not be removed prior to expiry of the tenure without cause
and proper enquiry.
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