1

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background

Dragon Cement Industries Pvt. Ltd. is setting up a mini cement plant at

Bhogiram gaon, P.O. Doboka, Nagaon district, Assam. The capacity of the

proposed plant is 200 TPD Clinker (240 TPD Cement). At Bhogiram gaon, P.O.

Doboka, Nowgaon district, Assam, raw materials are available from the North

Karbi Anglong Hills range. Moreover, in the North Eastern region the demand

and supply gap is very large; as most of the demand of cement is met from

supply from other parts of the country, the market is abundant. In North

Eastern region (as per Cris Infac Study) demand of cement is 2.02 million tons.

In order to assess the likely impact of the proposed mini cement plant to

the environment, authorities of Dragon Cement Industries Pvt. Ltd. has

appointed Green Tech Environmental Engineer & Consultants, Guwahati to

undertake Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment (REIA) for various

environmental components which may be affected and to prepare Environmental

Management Plant (EPM) to mitigate the adverse impact of the project.

1.2. Objectives of the study

The objectives of the present study are as follows

Establish the prevailing baseline environmental and socioeconomic

condition of the project sites and their surroundings along with the

compliance needs for environmental approvals to be able to carry

out site selection and well planning;

Assess environmental, socioeconomic and health impacts arising out

of the proposed project and associated activities;

Recommend appropriate preventive and mitigation measures to

eliminate or minimize pollution, environmental and social

disturbances.

2

Integrate mitigative measures so that they can be implemented,

monitored and suitable corrective action can be taken in case of

deviations;

Identify residual and cumulative impacts that may arise from the

project and suggest suitable measures to minimize them.

1.3. Scope of the study

The basic scope of the present study involves conducting of a rapid EIA

study of about 3 months duration to understand the environmental and social

impacts of the project and recommend suitable preventive/mitigative actions

through the Environment Management Plan (EMP). The scope of the EIA study

includes the following:

Understanding the project based on information provided by

Dragon Cement Industries Pvt. Ltd.;

Make site visits for collection of primary and secondary

information on status of the environment in the study area;

Impact assessment and

Formulate EMP.

1.4. Brief description of nature, size, location of the project and its

importance to the country, region

Dragon Cement Industries Pvt. Ltd. are setting up 200 TPD Clinker (240

TPD Cement)with VSK technology cement plant at Bhogiram gaon, P.O. Doboka,

Dist. Nagaon, Assam.

The important factors for setting up an industry are availability of raw

materials and market of the finished products. At Bhogiram gaon, P.O. Doboka,

Nagaon district, Assam, raw materials are available on the North Karbi Anglong

Hills range. This range is in the vicinity of the project site. There is also a huge

stock of lime-stone and coal in the neighbouring state of Meghalaya. Moreover,

in the North Eastern region the demand and supply gap is very large; as most of

the demand for cement is met from supply from other parts of the country, the

3

market is abundant. In North Eastern region (as per Cris Infac Study) demand

of cement is 2.02 million tons. Major portion of this demand i.e. around 60%

(1.2 million ton) are met from outside the NE region suppliers on which 40

rupees to 85 rupees are spent on transportation cost which is considerably very

high and a matter of concern for the region. The already existing 25 TPD cement

plant is a sick unit. Since there is abundant quantity of lime stone available in

Assam and Meghalaya, there is scope for export too to neighbouring country like

Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal and Bhutan etc.

1.5. Scope of the study –detail regulatory scoping carried out (As per

term of reference)

The scope of study includes cross sectional characterization of the existing

environment in an area of 5 Km radius from the project site as well as regional

background, status for environmental component viz. air, noise, water, land,

biological and socio-economic. The main objectives of the study are:

To study the effect on the various environmental components of the

proposed 200 TPD Clinker (240 TPD Cement) plant.

To prepare environmental management plan (EMP) adopted for

mitigation of adverse impacts.

To delineate post project environmental quality monitoring and program to be

pursued.

4

2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

A condensed description of those aspect of the project (based on project

feasibility study), likely to cause environmental effects is enumerated. Study

should provide to give clear picture of the various parameter of the project.

2.1. Type of project

Dragon Cement Industries Pvt. Ltd. are setting up 200 TPD Clinker (240

TPD Cement) with VSK technology cement plant at Bhogiram gaon, P.O.

Doboka, Dist. Nagaon, Assam. The total capital cost of the project is estimated

at Rs. 497 lakhs including margin money of Rs. 55.37 lakhs for working capital.

2.2. Need of the project

The important factors for setting up an industry are availability of raw

materials and market of the finished products. At Bhogiram gaon, P.O. Doboka,

Nowgaon district, Assam, raw materials are available on the North Karbi

Anglong Hills range. This range is in the vicinity of the project site. There is also

a huge stock of lime-stone and coal in the neighbouring state of Meghalaya.

Moreover, in the North Eastern region the demand and supply gap is very large;

as most of the demand of cement is met from supply from other parts of the

country, the market is abundant. In North Eastern region (as per Cris Infac

Study) demand of cement is 2.02 million tons. And major portion of this

demand i.e. around 60% (1.2 million ton) are met from outside the NE region

suppliers on which 40 rupees to 85 rupees are spent on transportation cost

which is considerably very high and a matter of concern for the region. Since

there is abundant quantity of lime stone available in Assam and Meghalaya,

there is scope for export too to neighbouring country like Bangladesh, Myanmar,

Nepal and Bhutan etc.

2.3. Location (map showing general location, specific location, project

boundary & project site layout)

5

A plot of land measuring around 17 bighas at Bhogiram gaon, Mouza

Jamunamukh, Circle Doboka, District Nagaon, Assam has been acquired for the

proposed project. The project site is 2 Km from Doboka town, 10 Km from the

Jamunamukh railway station, 1 Km from the National Highway 54. Nagaon town

is 36 Km away from the project site on North West direction (Figure 2.3.1 and

Figure 2.3.2).

6

Figure 2.3.1: Map of Nagaon district 6

7

Figure 2.3.1: Site map of the proposed cement plant

8

9

2.4. Size or magnitude of operation

Dragon Cement Industries Pvt. Ltd. are setting up 200 TPD Clinker (240

TPD Cement) with VSK technology cement plant at Bhogiram gaon, P.O.

Doboka, Dist. Nagaon, Assam. The total capital outlet including working capital,

margin money of Rs. 55.37 lakhs has been estimated at Rs. 497 lakhs. The

manpower requirement will be around fifty persons for smooth functioning of

the project.

2.5. Proposed schedule for approval and implementation

Implementation of the project work has already been started. The land

development work is going on at the project site. The formalities for legal

clearance from various departments are also under process.

2.6. Technology and process description

Raw Materials

The main raw materials used in the cement manufacturing process are

limestone, sand, shale, clay, and iron ore. The main material, limestone, will be

collected from the neighbouring places.

Raw Material Preparation

Depending on size, the raw materials may or may not be crushed before

being stored in separate areas until required.

Raw Grinding

In this step the raw material is proportioned to meet a desired chemical

composition and fed to either a rotating ball mill or vertical roller mill. The raw

materials are dried with waste process gases and ground to a size where the

majority of the materials are less than 75 microns. The dry materials exiting

either type of mill are called "kiln feed". The kiln feed is pneumatically blended

10

to insure the chemical composition of the kiln feed is well homogenized and then

stored in silos until required.

Pyroprocessing

Whether the process is wet or dry, the same chemical reactions take

place. Basic chemical reactions are: evaporating all moisture, calcining the

limestone to produce free calcium oxide, and reacting the calcium oxide with the

minor materials (sand, shale, clay, and iron). This results in a final black,

nodular product known as "clinker" which has the desired hydraulic properties.

In the wet process, the slurry is fed to a rotary kiln, which can be from 3.0

m to 5.0 m in diameter and from 120.0 m to 165.0 m in length. The rotary kiln

is made of steel and lined with special refractory materials to protect it from the

high process temperatures. Process temperatures can reach as high as 1450oC

during the clinker making process.

In the dry process, kiln feed is fed to a preheater tower, which can be as

high as 150.0 meters. Material from the preheater tower is discharged to a

rotary kiln with can have the same diameter as a wet process kiln but the length

is much shorter at approximately 45.0 m. The preheater tower and rotary kiln

are made of steel and lined with special refractory materials to protect it from

the high process temperatures.

Regardless of the process, the rotary kiln is fired with an intense flame,

produced by burning coal, coke, oil, gas or waste fuels. Preheater towers can be

equipped with firing as well.

The kiln discharges the red-hot clinker under the intense flame into a

clinker cooler. The clinker cooler recovers heat from the clinker and returns the

heat to the pyroprocessing system thus reducing fuel consumption and

improving energy efficiency. Clinker leaving the clinker cooler is at a

temperature conducive to being handled on standard conveying equipment.

11

Finish Grinding and Distribution

The black, nodular clinker is stored on site in silos or clinker domes until

needed for cement production. Clinker, gypsum, and other process additions are

ground together in ball mills to form the final cement products. Fineness of the

final products, amount of gypsum added, and the amount of process additions

added are all varied to develop a desired performance in each of the final

cement products.

Each cement product is stored in an individual bulk silo until needed by the

customer. Bulk cement can be distributed in bulk by truck, rail, or water

depending on the customer's needs. Cement can also be packaged with or

without color addition and distributed by truck or rail.

12

3. DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENT

3.1. Study Area, period, components & methodology

The project site falls under Bhogiram gaon and Sutargaon gram

panchayat, Binnakandi C.D. Block in Nagaon district. The geographical location

of Nagaon district is 25°56’ North Latitude and 92°57’ East Longitude. For the

present study cross sectional characterization of the existing environment in an

area of 5 Km radius from the project site as well as regional background, status

for environmental component viz. air, noise, water, land, biological and socio-

economic condition were studied.

Rapid EIA study was conducted for a period of 3 months duration

(November, December and January) to understand the environmental and social

impacts of the project(Figure 3.1.1).

The average gradient is gentle with a moderate slope. The mean daily

maximum temperature during winter is about 25° C and minimum is 11° C. The

mean daily maximum temperature during summer is 34° C and the minimum is

24° C. The relative humidity varies from month to month and increases from

76% to 84% during the South west monsoon and is about 77% in rest of the

year. The humidity varies throughout the year but seldom drops down below

67%. The average annual rainfall is 1541.7 mm. Rainfall is confined mainly

during the monsoon season. Winds are generally light to moderate being 2-8

Km per hour (Figure 3.1.1).

3.1.1 Air Environment

Studies on air environment were carried out in the following three

different fields: ambient air quality within 5 km radius, theoretical estimation of

stack and fugitive emission characteristics on the basis of DFR and prediction of

ground level concentration (GLC) through air pollution models for existing

operational levels and proposed facilities.

13

14

For Ambient Air Quality Monitoring (AAQM) 16 sampling stations were

selected within 5 km radius zone on the basis of micro-meteorological data

(wind/speed/direction) collected from the site for the purpose. The parameters

for AAQM included suspended particulate matter (SPM), sulphur dioxide (S02),

and nitrogen dioxide (N02). Gaseous pollutants (viz. S02, NOx, etc.) were

monitored on 8 hr average and SPM for 24 hr average basis. The micro-climatic

parameters were also recorded for the whole study period. Different types of

sampling equipments viz. Hi-Volume samplers, portable battery powered spot

monitors; gaseous monitoring units etc. were deployed to meet the specific

requirements of field conditions. For simultaneous gaseous and particulate

sampling, a tapping is provided in hopper of the Hi-Volume sampler for

generating necessary suction head.

The gaseous monitoring was done at impingement rate of 1 l/min. A

temporary field centre as central facility for the purpose of calibration of

equipment and standardization of analytical procedures was set up at Guwahati.

The samples were analyzed on the same day of collection. AQM was carried out

for a period of 30 days during December, 2007.

The emissions were also estimated theoretically based on design data and

emission factors reported for such processes.

PTPLU (point plume), PTMTP (multi-point source) and PAL (point area line

source) models were finally applied for prediction of ground level concentration

(GLC) under different micro-meteorological and emission strength scenario.

3.1.2. Noise Environment

Noise pollution survey was conducted in and around the project site at 16

locations for projecting base line status. The prominent noise sources

anticipated from vehicles and machineries of stone crusher very near to the

project site. Spot noise levels (A-weighted) were measured using a precision

noise level meter SLM-100 (Envirotech Instruments Pvt. Ltd.). As the project

site is being located very close to NH-54 the generated noise levels from the

highway were also recorded at various locations. Spot noise levels were also

15

recorded in the surrounding small residential villages and important landmarks

near the project site on NH-54 for projecting general scenario within 5 km

radius.

Hemispherical sound wave propagation model has been used to estimate

noise levels at various receptor locations due to major noise sources of the

region. Besides noise level prediction, the attenuation factors for noise were also

obtained for optimal green belt design.

3.1.3. Water Environment

All surface water resources of the region were identified and background

characteristics (data base) for each source were generated. Twelve locations

were selected for analyzing the water samples. The parameters of prime

importance for source quality characterization were selected covering

physicochemical as well as nutrient group. The quality of water was tested and

the pH was found to be 7.2.

The total water requirement of the cement plant will be around 20 KLD for

cooling and administrative purposes. The requirement will be met by bore well

within the plant site. Sources of biodegradable wastewater were quantified to

set up proposed treatment units. In addition, sampling was also performed from

the existing tube wells nearby to access the general water quality character of

the soil.

3.1.4. Land Environment

Land environment is primarily impacted as a consequence of:

Fall out of atmospheric pollutants. It may be dry and wet disposition

of dust and secondary pollutants.

Soil samples were collected from number of villages in order to

determine the soil infiltration rates, and other physicochemical

changes at the possible solid waste disposal sites.

Characterization of different solid wastes that may be generated by the

cement plant was conducted to determine the optimal system for disposal

16

and/or reuse of solid wastes. It is to be noted that the solid waste generated

from manufacturing process is almost nil.

3.1.5. Biological Environment

Keeping in view, the importance on biological component of total

environment due to proposed cement manufacturing processes, terrestrial and

aquatic biological aspects were studied in detail. The status of micro-flora as

well as biological status of surface and ground water sources was established

within the impact zone to access the impact of leachates and wastewater

disposal practices. Soil samples were also collected from different villages in

order to access the impact on crop pattern and limitation of soil for growth of

appropriate plants under green belt development recommendation. Plant species

for development of green belt were identified by taking attenuation factor into

consideration for mitigating fugitive emission (FE) of air pollutants.

Besides biological characterization of terrestrial and aquatic environments,

changes in species diversity of flora and fauna in terrestrial as well as aquatic

systems were also studied for impact assessment due to proposed cement

manufacturing activities and other facilities. The forest area adjacent to the

project site is negligible but plantation by the individual households has changed

the entire scenario. Further, in accordance with the government policy on social

forestry, a good number of trees were planted. The trees have attained a

luxurious growth and have been very helpful in bringing a balance in the

ecosystem and moderating climate to a great extent.

3.2. Establishment of baseline for valued environmental components,

as identified in the scope

3.2.1. Air quality

The average concentrations for all 16 AQMS (Table 3.2.1.1) ranged widely

from 84.25 to 56.25 µg/m3 (Table 3.2.1.2). The variations in SPM were due to

local village combustion sources or agricultural activities leading to up liftmen of

settled dust. The low dust concentration is due to occasional rain in the

17

18

19

surrounding vicinity and due to higher density of surrounding vegetation

resulting in overall high humidity. A high concentration is due to the influence of

other industries releasing smoke at ground level.

The limit of SPM established by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for

residential, rural and other areas is 200 µg/m3 (Annexure I). In the present

investigation out of the 16 AQMS the SPM concentration did not exceed the limit

at most of the sites. Some of the sites represent the minimal background SPM

concentration of the region. At most of the sites the SPM concentrations (90

percentile) is above 100 µg/m3 which can also be considered as background of

the region because some build up is due to the vehicular traffic and the work

going on in the industrial units within the zone. The respiratory suspended

particulate matters (RSPM) ranged from 26.75 to 42.50 µg/m3 (Table 3.2.1.3).

The gaseous air pollutants measured were SO2 and NOx. With regards to

NOx concentration the levels are governed by some local natural sources as

certain water bodies are present. The level of NOx as per CPCB limit for

residential, rural and other areas is 60 µg/m3. At all the stations the minimum

and maximum concentration were in the range of 7 to 22 µg/m3 (Table 3.2.1.4).

Thus the area under the present investigation can be classified as unpolluted

zone.

The minimum and maximum S02 concentration was 7 and 15 µg/m3(Table

3.2.1.5)respectively. In general, one can conclude that the S02 concentration

was well below the permissible limit at all the sites of the region.

3.2.2. Noise environment The basic steps associated with impact assessment of the noise

component of the environment involve identification, prediction and evaluation

of the present exposure status of the cement plant workers (occupational) as

well as general population including sensitive receptors viz, hospitals, offices,

schools, colleges etc. Inter relationship among noise pollution sources

anticipated from major cement manufacturing processes and various affected

components of human interest is depicted in (Figure 3.2.2.1)

20

21

22

23

24

The community background noise sources including traffic and other

industrial activities were, therefore, monitored to determine a general noise

pollution status. The scenario for exposure status of in plant workers was

established based on past experience for such plants. The sampling sites for

community exposure survey were selected keeping in view the prevalent

meteorological conditions at the time of survey.

Community Noise

Community noise includes all types of noise in the outdoor acoustic

environment and it is essential to study its variations, magnitude and character

at various locations. A permissible outdoor noise level for urban residential areas

as recommended by IS: 4954, is 35-45 dB(A) (Annexure-III).

The ambient sound pressure level is termed as total noise at a given

location due to all sources. The residual noise level is that level below which the

ambient noise does not seem to drop during a given time interval and is due to

distant unidentified sources.

The extent to which an individual is affected by intruding noise is a

complex phenomenon. The impact of noise on the individual’s health depends

on:

(i) Physical dose of noise viz, noise level, frequency spectrum,

intermittency etc.

(ii) Human factors viz, sex, age, health state, occupation, nature of

activity viz, study, sleep etc.

The intensity of the impact however, depends on:

(i) Psychological and physiological state of the individual and

(ii) The number of individuals exposed.

Day v/s Night Noise Level

The community noise is determined by recording the day-night noise

levels (Ldn). Ldn is defined as the 24 hr equivalent sound level except that

weighting penalty of 10 dB(A) is added to the measured instantaneous noise

level for night time period i.e. from 2200 to 0700 hrs. This is because the same

noise levels during the night time are more annoying than during the day time.

25

At the proposed site of the cement plant the background noise level were

mainly from the vehicular traffic of NH-54 and a already existing stone crusher

near the project site. There were slight variations in the sound level during the

day and night time. As there is no activity of the cement plant at present, and

the difference in day and night levels is very small calculation of Ldn was not felt

necessary for the present study.

Noise Data

In plant Noise Levels

About 16 important noise level stations were set up within and around the

area of the proposed cement plant complex. Noise levels with respect to these

sources were obtained from the data recorded from the sampling stations in

order to generate a scenario for projecting the source strength of process noise

sources and also for the general in plant noise pollution status. The data were

collected at different time of the day. Noise levels of these sources are

summarized in Table 3.2.2.1. The maximum sound level was 60 dB(A) and the

minimum was 28 dB(A).

Noise Level Due To Other Industries

There are a few industries within the 5 km study zone around the

proposed cement plant. The nearest industries are stone crushers and

perfumery. Only some of these units were operational during our study period.

Hence, the noise from these sources may not be as high as expected.

Noise Level Due To Vehicular Activity

The villages are located at a distance of 1 Km from the plant. The

vehicular traffic density is quite high because of the closeness to the NH-54.

Nevertheless, the background road side noise level was within the permissible

limits.

Noise Level At Residential And Commercial Zones

As mentioned earlier,villages are scattered at a distance of 1 Km from the

proposed site. The background noise in the villages falling within the study zone

is primarily due to vehicular traffic and other social activities. The noise level at

residential areas within the study zone are summarized in Table 3.2.2.1.

26

27

3.2.3. WATER ENVIRONMENT

Impact has been assessed on all the surface and ground water sources

falling within the impact zone due to the wastewater from the existing industrial

activities. Prediction of impact on receiving bodies has been achieved by using

versatile water quality models formulated for this purpose.

The site of the cement plant as stated earlier, is very near to the NH-54.

The Jamuna river is close to the project site. The proposed cement plant

proposes not to discharge any effluent outside the site. The water will be

recycled and used.

Survey of prominent villages within the radius of 5 km from the proposed

site of the plant revealed that majority of the people have tube wells and hand

pumps. Some of them were having open ring wells and dug wells also along

with ponds which is used as a source of drinking water as well as for rearing

fish. In such cases the fisheries are for domestic consumption only.

The water requirement of the cement plant as well as the domestic water

requirement of the site will be met from tube wells. The water treatment plant

of the site will have water from deep tube wells. Waste water generated from

the cement plant will be almost negligible and will not be discharged so as to

avoid health hazards at any cost. For study of impact assessment the

quantification of water requirement and wastewater generation were done.

Water Balance

Average annual rainfall in the area is estimated to be 1541.70mm as per

record of Statistical Hand Book, Assam 2006 (Table 3.2.3.1). Considering 10%

of seepage to subsoil water, the water recharge potential of the area within 5

km radius can thus be calculated. This quantity of recharge water is much more

than the maximum required for the proposed coke plant and the population of

the area. The water table is about 0.85 m below ground level during monsoon

season; it is 1.4 meters during the dry season. For the water requirement of the

coke plant, the deep well and the tube-well together with the stream along the

boundary wall of the site is adequate enough.

28

29

Water quality

To access the water quality within the radius of 5 km from the project site,

11 sampling stations were selected. The location and source of the water

sampling sites is given in Table 3.2.3.2. The physicochemical analysis is

presented in Table 3.2.3.3 respectively. The findings of bacteriological analysis

of the sampling stations are shown in Table 3.2.3.4.

All the values of turbidity, alkalinity and hardness, chloride, sulphate and

nitrate are well within permissible limit. Water quality assessment data indicates

that both surface and ground water are suitable for human consumption.

3.2.4. LAND ENVIRONMENT Impact of industrial activity on land environment is primarily attributed to

perpetual fallout of the harmful gaseous emission along with the natural

atmospheric pollutants.

Irrigation practices with wastewater having varying concentration of

pollutants.

Land Use Pattern And Soil Characteristics

Present status of the land-use pattern of the area clearly projects that

though it is more or less plain with high potential of shrub growth, it is mostly

being used for agricultural purposes. The forest cover in the area is not very

high. The lands are cultivated for both domestic and commercial purpose.

Some samples of soil were collected from different points within the study

zone and these samples were laboratory tested to know in details about the

physicochemical characteristics of the soil. The results of soil testing have been

provided in Table 3.2.4.1. The soil is slightly acidic in nature and the texture is

clayey.

Seismic Status

If we study the seismic map of the North- East India, it is observed that

the Kamrup district falls under the seismic magnitude of less than 5.5 which is

the lowest as far as the magnitude of earthquake intensity in the entire North-

eastern region is concerned.

30

31

32

33

34

3.2.5. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

The impact on biological environment within the study zone was studied

primarily on terrestrial and aquatic habitats. The presence of coliform organisms

in water is regarded as evidence of faecal contamination as their origin is in the

intestinal track of human and other warm blooded animals. Rapid multiple tube

fermentation technique is used for determining the presence of faecal conforms

and the results are expressed as Most Probable Number (MPN). The estimated

faecal coliform density is reported in terms of MPN per 100 ml. Water samples

were also collected from different sources around the site.

The area and has got an equable climate raining. Temperature as well as

rainfall in the area is quite normal. The vegetation cover is of deciduous in

nature.

Data on fauna was procured from respective Government departments as

well as field observation and onsite visits to the area around the project site.

Terrestrial Biology

Flora And Fauna (General Vegetation And Animals)

The topography of the area is more or less plain consisting of plain land

used for cultivation as well as the hills. The hillocks in the forest areas are of

sand stone and lateritic clay. The roads and lines of communication are highly

developed.

According to the data provided by the Department of Forest, Government

of Assam, the common flora and fauna are depicted in Table 3.2.5.2 and Table

3.2.5.3. The entire area is characterized by the presence of deciduous plants.

The main plant species found in the area are shrubs.

Agriculture

The main source of income of the majority of the population is agriculture.

The agro-climatic condition of the area is most congenial for cultivation of paddy

and seasonal vegetables. In 2004-2005, the total area under production of high

yielding variety of paddy in Nagaon district was 160035 hectares (Statistical

35

Handbook, Assam, 2006). The main cultivated food crop in the area is rice and

its cultivation is done on a commercial as well as domestic basis.

The eco-friendly systems of Integrated Nutrient Management and

Integrated Pest Management are being introduced by the Government to make

the farmers aware of the adverse effect of the chemicals. These practices will

help in sustaining soil health and to control the depletion of soil nutrient.

Fisheries

Data on commercial fisheries are important to denote the fisheries

potential of the fresh water ecosystem of the region and to ascertain the likely

impacts that may arise due to the project activity. Fishing is an important small

scale industry of the area and many families are dependent on it for their

livelihood. In addition the Jamuna and Kopili River also supports many varieties

of fishes and is an important spawning ground. In the year 2005-2006, there

were 40 registered fisheries and 12 registered river fisheries in the entire

Nagaon district. (Table 3.1.5.1. Source: Statistical Handbook, Assam, 2006).

36

37

38

39

Table 3.2.5.3 : List of Faunal species in the study zone

Sl. No. Scientific Name Common Name Local

Distribution

A Mammals

1 Bandicota bengalensis Indian Mole Rat C

2 Canis aures Jackel C

3 Felis bengalensis Leopard cat R

4 Felix chaus Jungle cat R

5 Macaca assamesensis Assamese macaque

C

6 Oryctolagus coniculus Rabbit C

7 Ratus ratus Rat C

8 Vulpes bengalensis Indian fox R

B Birds

9 Acridotheres tristis Common myna C

10 Centropus sinensis Crow pheasant S

11 Columba livia Blue rock pigeon C

12 Corvus splendens House crow C

13 Cuculus sparverioides Cuckoo S

14 Eudynamys scolopacea

Koel C

15 Passer domesticus House sparrow C

16 Spliornis cheela Crested serpent eagle

R

C Reptiles

17 Ahaetulla nasutus Green whip snake C

18 Gecko gecko Common gecko C

19 Calotes versicolor Common garden lizard

C

20 Hemidactylus flaviviridis

House wall lizard C

21 Naja naja Indian cobra C

22 Python molurus Indian python C

40

D Fishes

23 Amplypharyngodon mola

Mowa S

24 Anabas testudineus Koi C

25 Aorichthys aor Ari S

26 Aspidoparia marar BorIwala S

27 Catla catla Bhokua C

28 Chanda ranga Chanda C

29 Channa gachua Cheng S

30 Channa punctatus Goroi C

31 Channa striatus Shol C

32 Cirhina mrigala Mirga C

33 Clarius batrachus Magur C

34 Colisa fasciatus Kholiana C

35 Esomus danricus Dorikona C

36 Labeo bata Bhagon S

37 Labeo calbasu Mali S

38 Labeo gonius Kuhi S

39 Labeo rohita Rohu C

40 Monopterus cuchia Kuchia C

41 Notopterus chitala Chital S

42 Notopterus notopterus Kandhuli C

43 Puntius chola Puthi C

44 Wallago attu Borali C

E Amphibians

45 Bufo melanostictus Common Indian toad

C

46 Hoplobactrachus tigerinus

Common Indian Bull Frog

C

47 Microhyla ornata Grass Frog S

[C=Common, S=Sporadic, R=Rare]

41

Diversity Indices

Species richness and species diversity are the best measures of

community structure. They are sensitive to environmental stresses which affect

the community. Diversity index value which is derived by combining these

parameters allows assessment of the community and comparison among

communities.

Shannon-Weaver Index (H)

H = (Pi) log 2 (Pi)

Where,

H = Species Diversity Index

S = Number of Species

Pi= Proportion of ‘i’th species individuals to total individuals

The higher value shows more diversity showing a healthy ecosystem and

the lower value shows degree of disturbance resulting in the reduction of plant

species in an ecosystem under environmental stress.

Simpson's Diversity Index (I) (Rau and Ooten)

N (N-l)

I = ----------

n

E n (n-1)

X = 1

Where,

I = Simpson’s Diversity Index

N = Total Number of individual of all species

n = Number of individual of any species

x = Total number of species in the sample

The value of I is less when the diversity of plant species is low and is high

when the diversity is more in the sample plot.

42

Menhinick’s Index

s

d = ------

n

Where,

d = Menhinick’s Diversity Index

S = Number of species in a sample

n = Total number of individuals in a sample

The value of d is less when diversity of plant species is low and is high when the

diversity is more in the sample plot.

3.2.6. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

The proposed cement plant is at Bhogiram gaon, under Jamunamukh

Mouza of Nagaon district, Assam. On our way to the project site there are open

green fields on certain patches of the road sides. People are seen cultivating

using modern methods and practices. However, ploughing is done with the help

of tractors and also by bullocks. The people of the area are highly

knowledgeable and understanding and their behaviour towards visitors is fine

and dear. They shared every information they have about their area and shows

clear signs of helping by providing everything for the concerned study of Rapid

Environmental Impact Assessment of the Dragon Cement Pvt. Ltd.

As an integral part of the EIA study, the baseline information is collected

to define the socio-economic profile of the study area of 5 km radius. The data

base thus, generated in the process include:

Demographic structure.

Basic amenities viz. housing, education, medical, water supply,

sanitation, transportation, communication, power supply etc.

Baseline health status.

It is envisaged that this information would help in prediction and

evaluation of the likely impacts which may occur on the socio-economic

environment as a result of the existing activity.

43

Socio -Economic Profile of Demographic Structure

Table 3.2.6.1 to Table 3.2.6.6 give details regarding the demographic

structure of the study area. The people of the area mostly belong to the

agricultural class and their behaviour towards us shows that they are honest

and people of integrity.

Socio-economic Profile Of Basic Amenities

The following observations are made by studying the socio-economic

aspects of the study area.

Most of the villages in the study zone have primary schools. Few villages

have middle as well as English medium schools also. There is a college (Haji

Anwar Ali College) within 5 Km radius of the cement plant.

Medical facilities are average but not highly developed. There is one 30

bedded community health centre which is 2.5 Km from the project site.

As regards power supply, it is a developed sector in this area. All the

villages are well connected with pitched as well as kutcha roads and the railway

line runs close to the area.

Post office, sub post office and telegraph office are available in the area

which designates the area as being on the process of development.

Socio-Economic Survey

The socio-economic survey serves as a tool to establish contacts with the

local residents and with the help of personal inventories an insight into their

feelings about the project is obtained. These personal inventories give

information about the status of the respondents with reference to education,

occupation, wealth as well as their awareness about the project, their opinion

and also their apprehensions about the project. This helps in visualizing,

assessing and predicting the impacts of the project on socio-economic

environment. For the survey, adult males and females were selected on random

basis.

The villages have small markets “haat” to cater to the daily needs of the

people.

44

Radio and television are available uniformly in all the villages within the

study zone.

Awareness And Opinion About The Project

The atmosphere of the study zone is cool and calm and apart from this,

the people’s behavior towards us was something totally unquestionable. About

50% of the village people are poor; yet they never forget to provide hospitality

to anyone visiting them and it very well proves that they are honest and people

of integrity.

Project awareness amongst the respondents is very high. Most of them

have either heard about it from others or seen some activities themselves.

As regards to the opinion of the local people, it is very heartening to note

that barring only 20% of the surveyed households in all the villages have opined

that the proposed cement plant is good as it would create some employment

opportunities for the local youths. But they made it amply clear that every

measure should be adopted by the company to minimize the levels of

environmental pollution in their area. On the whole the people at large opined

that this area could progress immensely through industrial development. What

is needed is not a ban on industrial development but a control on pollution

emissions using improved machineries and equipments. If pollution is controlled

at large, they feel that the high level of industrial development would bring their

region in prominence on the indian industrial development map.

Salient Observations

Most of the people residing in the villages are farmers, some are into

service and few are doing small business and the local educated unemployed

youths are looking forward to the industrial ventures being established in this

region for increased job opportunities.

Wells seem to be the common source of water supply. Sanitation facilities

are rather poor and open field defecation among the labour class working in the

industries of the area is quite common. Medical facilities are not up to the mark.

There is only one Community Health Centre.

45

Demography

Data on the demographic pattern, population density, educational

facilities, agriculture pattern, other employment sources, fuel use shifts and

changes in public demand for domestic and commercial or industrial fuel,

medical facilities, health status, water supply and sanitation problem, transport

system, cultural and entertainment facilities were collected for temporal and

spatial variations of all the aforesaid parameters of socio- economic

environment. Such changes formed the basis for identification, prediction and

evaluation of significant impact. Monuments and religious places of cultural or

historical importance as well as tourist spots in and around the area were also

covered under socio-economic environmental aspects.

Table3.2.6.1.: Demographic profile of Doboka town council, 2001 census

No. of household

Total population

Literacy rate Percentage of S.C.

Percentage Of S.T.

1903 11058 69.65 2.03 0.01

Table 3.2.6.2.: Population details of the Project district as per 2001 census

Characteristic Total population

Male population

Female population

Percentage to Total

population Total 2314629 1190950 1123679

Scheduled Caste 215209 110701 104508 9.30

Scheduled Tribe 89394 45283 44111 3.86

Table 3.2.6.3.: Literacy rates of Nagaon district in Assam, 2001 census

Person Male Female Rural Urban

61.73 68.27 54.74 58.30 84.62

46

Table 3.3.6.4: Percentage of literates among SC and ST population of Nagaon district in Assam, 2001 census

Scheduled Caste Scheduled Tribe

Persons 71.60 63.66

Male 79.65 72.57

Female 63.05 54.53

Table 3.3.6.5.: Number of households and density of population of Nagaon district

Total Rural Urban Density

No. of household 410882 357383 53499 582

Area (Sq. Km) 3973.00 3897.72 75.28

Table 3.3.6.6.: Distribution of main workers, marginal workers and non-workers

Total workers Male workers Female workers

Total Workers 727641 586631 141010

Main Workers 566195 502619 63576

Marginal Workers 161446 84012 77434

Non Workers 1586988 604319 982669

Cultivators 279394 231238 48156

Agricultural Labourers

144699 114307 30392

Household Industries Workers

24424 10858 13566

Other Workers 279124 230228 48896

47

4. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & MITIGATION MEASURES

In this section the impacts of the project activities on the environment of

the project site are assessed. The probable impacts during the various phases of

the project lifecycle to the environmental receptors are enumerated.

PREDICTION OF IMPACT Many well designed scientific techniques and methodologies are available

to predict impact on physico-ecological environment. Techniques based on

mathematical model and in situ environmental monitoring for establishing the

impact on various environmental components can be used to estimate

quantitatively the cause and effect relationships between source of pollution and

different environmental components.

4.1.1. Visual Impacts and Aesthetics

Potential landscape and visual impacts will result from both onsite

activities such as leveling the land, setting up of machineries, temporary

storage, onsite disposal of process waste etc.

Impacts from onsite works

As part of the setting up of the cement plant there will be an adverse

visual impact for residents of the area which has very few industries. The added

noise levels, operation of vehicles, and the people residing in the campsite will

also affect the aesthetic and peaceful environment of the place. Debris

generated during decommissioning activities along with domestic waste would

be stored temporarily within the site before final offsite disposal.

Impacts from offsite works

Improper selection and operation of the plant area might result in visual

impacts in the surrounding. Disposal of domestic solid waste as well as debris

generated at any place other than the designated site can lead to visual

impacts.

48

4.1.2. Impact to air quality

In the proposed cement unit there are no major stacks, only processed

vents are present. Among process vents only one stack will be provided for kiln

(120 feet height). Only vents attached to the dust collection systems where

collected dust is recycled into the process are present. Existing ground level

concentration of ambient air quality and static air volume sampling also was

undertaken as a reference. There will be air pollution from Generator(DG) set.

The primary pollutants emitted by a DG set consist of particulate matter, oxides

of sulphur and nitrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and hydrogen.

Combustion of fuel in a DG sets typically happens at high temperatures resulting

in generation of considerable amounts of NOX. The SO2 concentration in

emissions is dependent on the sulphur content in fuel burnt and particulate

matter consists of unburnt carbon particles.

To predict the ground level of concentrations (GLCs) at various distances

from the source of the above mentioned pollutants, an air modeling exercise has

been undertaken.

The impact on air quality due to automobile emission has been predicted

to be insignificant because of the anticipated increase in vehicular movement

(46 trucks per day) due to the proposed project is marginal.

The impact of these emissions will be limited to a very short distance. The

roads from the nearby towns to the plant site are tar roads and the fugitive

emission due to the vehicular traffic will be insignificant.

However, during production, if pollution level increases beyond the

prescribed limits, then mitigative measures should be implemented in order to

control the menace of pollution to the normal limits which has been thoroughly

discussed in the Environment Management Plan for this particular cement plant.

Plant Emission Scenario

Emission from cement plants vary greatly in both quantity and type. The

most important factor affecting cement plant emissions include the process of

burning, use of pollution control equipments/ storage of raw material and

49

general level of their maintenance. The major pollutants emitted are SPM, SOx,

NOx, CO and dust particles.

The prime source of air pollution from the cement plant is the stack

emission. The stack emission was theoretically estimated through thermal

balance under DFR.

Mathematical Model Details

In an attempt to predict impact on ambient air quality, certain air quality

simulation models viz, PTPLU, PTDIS, PTMTP and PAL were identified for

different purposes. These models are part of the UNAMAP package of air quality

simulation modeling, algorithms released by USEPA and modified for indigenous

applications at NEERL. These models have a long history of applications in

regulatory situations viz, New Source Reviews (NSR), Prevention of Significant

Deterioration (PSD) analysis. State Implementation Plan (SIP) etc. and hence

their usage here is highly appropriate.

The PTPLU (point plume) computes maximum ground level concentration

(MGLC) v/s Distance (km) from source as a function of wind speed and stability

classes with extrapolated wind speed for a point source. It gives short term (10

min-1 hr average) concentrations.

PTDIS (point-distance) predicts the variation of start time (10 min-1 hr

average) ground level plume centre line concentrations with distance due to

single point source for a given set of emission, meteorology and downwand

distances.

PTMTP (multi-point source) is short term (1-24 hr average) air quality

dispersion model. PTMTP computes ground level concentration at multiple

receptors resulting from multiple point sources.

PAL (Point-Area-Line source model) is short term Gaussian-Steadly- state

algorithms estimates GLC from point, area and line sources. It calculates hourly

concentrations and average concentrations for 24 hours can also be obtained.

Air Quality Prediction

The first step in such an approach is to run the available data through a

“screening model” (PTPLU) where extreme estimates of the worst case scenario

50

to be done. The results of the screening exercise have significance as a

clearance of site due to sensitive receptors.

Comparative Method

In this method we have to choose a similar working condition for data that

are readily available. The quality of environmental attributes in similar projects

would guide in forecasting the environmental pollution of the project in

question. This method also presupposes that data for other projects are

available and on this account the situation is not encouraging because of the

following features.

Apart from the cement plant there are few number of other industries like

stone crushers and perfumery operating in the area. They have their own share

of contribution to environmental degradation. Most of the industries have not

yet adopted pollution control measures. Moreover, no systematic studies have

as yet been carried out to determine the exact extent of pollution caused by

different industries.

A. Matrix Method

The most commonly adopted environmental impact assessment

methodology is the matrix method with weighting scheme approach for various

impact .The impact score is considered before mitigation measures are

implemented and after implementation quantification of degree of impact as well

as effect of mitigation measures is brought out. The environmental attributes

considered for assessing the impact of the project are air, surface and ground

water, solid waste disposal, noise, vegetation, forest and wildlife. The

socioeconomic aspects like land use pattern and places of tourist interest were

also considered.

Matrices are similar to checklists in that they use a tabular format for

presenting information. The matrix is however, more complex and can best be

described as a 2-dimensional checklist. Matrices can be used to evaluate to

some degree the impacts of a project’s activities on resources, and can also be

extended to consider the cumulative and indirect impacts, as well as impact

interactions on a resource. Matrices can not be used in themselves to quantify

51

the actual significance of impacts; this can only be done using other methods. It

is however possible to weight matrices to reflect factors such as duration,

frequency and extent. They can also be used to score or rank impacts. If

weighting or scoring are used, the criteria must be clearly set out. This approach

relies on expert opinion to provide ranks/weights for each project with respect

to each environmental effect. By looking for patterns in the finished matrix, for

example columns or rows with numerous impact strikes, it is possible to develop

a clear picture of how impacts combine in a cumulative way on a particular

environmental receptor. In doing so, probable impact interactions can also be

identified. Matrices can be used during the Scoping stages of impact

assessment. They are also useful tools to summaries and present impacts within

the Environmental Statement. Keeping in view the type of industry and

relevance, we followed the Simple matrix, Weighted matrix and Stepped Matrix.

B. Simple Matrices

Simple matrices can be organized to cross reference the different phases

of a project (e.g. construction, operation and decommissioning) against

elements of the environment or sensitive receptors. Cumulative impacts may for

example be considered in a separate column by including the effects of past,

present and future actions on resources, alongside the range of effects caused

by the action of immediate concern. The following is the simple matrix using

symbols. Numerical scores are used equally well to show the approximate scale

or magnitude of the impact.

Table A: Simple Matrix

* Low Adverse effect ** Moderate Adverse Effect *** High adverse effect + beneficial effect

Proposed Action Potential Impact

Area Construction Operation Mitigation

Past

Action

Other

present

Action

Future

Action

Cumul-

ative

Impact

Landscape * * + * *

Ecology * *

Water Quality * *

Land use * *

Cultural Heritage

52

C. Weighted Matrices

By introducing weighting into a matrix it allows the ranking of impacts. It

also provides a tool for assessing complex effects. However, use of such

complex approaches may make interpretation of the results difficult for others.

Weighting an impact will be subjective and it is therefore important that the

assessment explains assumptions made and the criteria used. Weighted

matrices allow the magnitude of impacts to be used quantitatively. A weight is

assigned to each environmental component, indicating its importance. The

impact of the project on each component is then assessed and scored.

Weighting or scoring can also be used to give an overall total score for the

project or alternative options. Extreme caution should be practiced if these

weights are to be used additively during the comparison of project options or to

determine combined impact values as the rankings do not work in a strict

additive way. The following is the weighted matrix developed to compare

alternative sites.

Table B: Weighted Matrix

Environmental

Component Construction Operation

A

Relative

Weighting

(Total

100)

B A X B B A X B

Air 10 1 10 2 20

Water 35 2 70 1 35

Noise 8 3 24 2 16

Landscape 10 5 50 1 10

Ecology 27 1 27 3 81

Total

Cumulative

Impact

100 181

162

53

D. Stepped Matrices

Stepped matrices are a more advanced type of matrix that considers how

the various activities of a project relate to the environmental resource or

parameter. It shows resources against functions of the environment. This

approach therefore shows how one action can impact on a resource, which can

then cause changes on another resource. Table 3 is the Stepped Matrix

developed by Froelich and Sporbeck for a road scheme. Air quality in terms of

ground level concentration (GLCs) at various receptor points have been

calculated using the ISC 3 short term model which is considered to standard

model for prediction of air quality impacts world wide. The emission factor for

various pollutants, viz. NOx ,SO2,and particulate matter was presumed .

The model run was carried out based on screening meteorology to be able

to predict worst air quality impacts for average 24 hr period that may be caused

a peak production .

The result of the run shows that maximum GLC will occur about 200 m

distance from the stack and than reducing considerably with distance and

reaching levels well within Nation Ambient Air Quality Standards ( NAAQS)

ANNEXURE –I at about 1 km from the project site .

The maximum predicted 24 hr average concentration of pollutants at that

distance is given below NOx - 48 µg/m3 SOx - 6.46 µg/m3 Particulates - 76.24 µg/m3

The GLCs have been spatially mapped and isoclines for air pollutant concentration have been presented in the Figure 4.1.2.1 – 4.1.2.3. The impact identification network for air pollution is in Figure 4.1.2.4.

54

Figure- 4.1.2.1: Prediction of NOx

55

Figure 4.1.2.2: Prediction of SPM

56

Figure 4.1.2.3: Prediction of SOx

57

58

4.1.3. NOISE ENVIRONMENT

In plant Occupational Exposure

The sound power radiated by a source spreads to the space as the

pressure waves travel outwards. Hence, it decreases with distance and also gets

affected by environmental conditions.

The sound pressure level at a distance from the source can be calculated

by using the following mathematical model:

Lpo = Lw + DI - 20 logr - Ae -10 log2 .......(I)

Where,

Lpo = sound pressure level at the receiver located in the direction 0 and

distance v from the source.

Lw = sound power level of source.

DI = directivity index of source in the direction 0 (for hemispherical

radiation DI = 3 dB(A)

r = distance of receiver from source.

Ae = excess attenuation caused by environmental conditions.

The total impact (Lp total) of all the sources at particular place is then

estimated using the following model:

Lp total = 10 log (10 Lp 01 / 10 + 10 Lp 02/10 +......) .......(II)

In a cement plant, the noise sources are generally scattered within the

boundary of the plant if it has sufficient free space. The noise pressure at the

centre of the plant , as calculated from the above model and considering the

general plant layout of an identical cement plant comes to about 84-90 dB(A)

which is within the OSHA specifications for damage risk criteria for noise

exposure (Annexure II). These values, however, may vary depending upon the

proximity of noise generating sources within the site.

Depletion In Noise Level Status Due To Green Belt Development

The sound pressure level generated by a noise source decreases with

increasing distance from the source due to wave divergence according to the

following relationship:

59

Lp = Lw - 20 log r - Ae - 8 (dB)

Ae includes:(a) Attenuation by air absorption

(b) Attenuation by vegetation

Atmospheric attenuation at a temperature of 20°C has been calculated

from the equation:

7.4*F2*r 10-8

Ae = ————————— (dB)

0

where,

F = frequency, Hz or octave or 1/3 octave-band centre frequency.

R = distance between source and receiver (m)

0 = relative humidity (%)

Attenuation by vegetation can be of two types:

(a) attenuation by shrubs or grass and

(b) attenuation by forests.

For the proposed green belt, the attenuation caused by the forest

community was applied which has been calculated by the equation:

Aef = 0.01 Fl / 3r dB(A)

Where,

f = frequency of sound.

r = distance traveled.

If the sound power of a source is not known but the sound pressure level

Lpl at a distance r1 from the source is known the sound pressure level Lp2 at a

distance r2 from the source can be calculated from the equation:

Lp2 = Lpl - 20 log (r2/r1) - Ae 1,2

60

Ae1, 2/2 is the excess attenuation along the path r2 – r1 between sound

recorded at 1 and 2.

Calculations show that even when there is sound pressure level of around

100 dB(A) at the inner edge of the green belt it will be attenuated almost

completely reaching to the regional background by adopting green belt of 410m

width. Sound pressure level of 100 dB(A) has been selected for comparison

purpose because this is perhaps the maximum level expected and it is greater

then TLV which is 90dB(A).

The cumulative percentage reduction for sound pressure as a function of

green belt width will be as summarized here:

Width of Green Belt 100 200 300 400 410

% Reduction Cumulative 55.9 69.9 81.3 91.8 99.94

Highway Noise Source

The highway noise model developed by Federal Highway Administration

(FHWA) has been used first to estimate one(1) hour equivalent noise pressure

level (Leq) and thereby, predicting noise Impact on population residing on both

sides of main and main Highway and the other roads.

Leq(h)I = LOE +10 log (Ni/Si T) + 10 log (15/d) + s -13 ....(III)

Where,

Leq(h)I is the Leq at hour ‘h’ for the ‘i’th vehicle,

LOE = is the reference mean energy level for the ‘i’th vehicle type

Ni = is the no. of class ‘i’th vehicles passing during the time ‘t’th

Si = is the average speed for the ‘i’th vehicle class in km/hr

T = is the duration for which Leq is desired

d = is the perpendicular distance in meters, from the central line of traffic

lane to location where the noise level is desired.

s = is the shielding factor

Equation (3) quantifies the contributions from automobiles, medium trucks

and heavy trucks separately after putting the appropriate values. Cumulative

effect is thereafter, calculated by using the mathematical expression:

61

Leq(h) total = 10 log (10 LeqA/10 + 10 Leq MT/10 + 10 Leq

Ht/10)........4

Where,

LeqHT, LeqMT and LeqA are equivalent noise level is for heavy trucks,

light trucks and automobiles respectively.

Prediction Of Impact On Community

Impact on community noise levels due to the proposed cement plant are

expected due to various factors viz. power of noise sources, increase in overall

traffic and other regional growth activity of the impacted zone thereby, causing

rise in regional noise level. As regards the impact prediction on noise component

of air environment, the levels of 40-45 dB(A) are expected within the boundary

of the cement plant which will be attenuated to 32-25 dB(A) after minimal green

belt (inplant) recommendations are implemented. The highway at 50-54 dB(A)

noise level after 100 m without green belt on highway and the same shall drop

further to lower than 46-48 dB(A) when green belt plantation is undertaken with

the help of local authorities.

4.1.4. WATER ENVIRONMENT

Industrial wastewater, if discharged to surface water, can give rise to

significant deterioration in its water quality. The extent of such influences, in

addition to wastewater characteristics and quantity, also depends upon the

hydraulic and water quality characteristics of quanitity of available water in the

water body used for disposal. Mathematical models which stimulate water

quality transformations in a water body by means of a set of mathematical

equations provide means to quantify such influences under different wastewater

disposal and rich flow scenarios. Such analysis, therefore, provides the basis

for:

Assessment of impact of a proposed industry on surface water quality and

prediction of surface water quality profile due to existing industry for conditions

for which monitored observations are not available.

62

It should be noted that the wastewater generated during the process of

manufacturing in cement plants is minimal and therefore is of less important for

our purpose. But in order to be sure about the impacts of wastewater on

environmental pollution, we have done water quality survey around the plant

site.

The state-of-art river water quality model QUAL2E of US Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA) can be used to predict the likely water quality profiles

under such conditions in this very report.

Water Quality In River

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF QUAL2E

QUAL2E is a comprehensive and versatile stream water quality model. It

can simulate upto 15 water quality constituents in river system, namely pH,

BOD, temperature, algae as chlorophyll, organic, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate

nitrogen, organic and dissolved phosphorus, coliforms and arbitrary non-

conservative constituent and three conservative constituents. The model works

under the assumption of completely mixed free regime and steady state

conditions in terms of initial conditions and forcing functions. Diurnal variations

in certain water quality constituents such as temperature and DO variations due

to photosynthesis can also be simulated under pseudo-dynamic mode. The basic

equation solved by QUAL2E is the one dimensional and vector-dispersion mass

transport equation, which is numerically integrated for each water quality

constituent. This equation includes the effects of advection, dispersion, dilution,

constituent reactions and interactions, and sources and sinks. Under steady

state mode for any constituent, C, this equation can be written as:

dC

d(AxDL------- )

dx d(AxuC) dC S

----------------- --------------- ---- + ---- = 0 ……………(1)

Ax dx Ax dx dt V

Where,

Ax = cross-sectional area (L2)

63

DL = dispersion coefficient (L2T-1)

U = mean velocity (LT-1)

C = concentration (M L-3)

x = distance (L)

t = time(T)

S = external source or sinks (MT-1) and

V = volume (L3)

The terms in equation 1 represent the effect of, respectively, dispersion,

advection/ constituent changes, external sources/sinks and dilution.

In the present application, the water quality simulations have been carried

out in terms of dissolved oxygen (DO), bio oxygen demand (BOD) and

ammonical nitrogen. It has been further assumed that the atmospheric re-

aeration is the only source for regeneration of river DO. Under this assumption

the differential equations for river BOD and DO simulation as used in QUAL2E

are as follows:

dL

— = - KdL ............(2)

dt

do

— = Ka(Cs - 0) ─ KdL ─ 5B1N1 ─ 6B2N2 ............(3)

dt

where,

L = concentration of ultimate carbonaceous BOD @mg/l

0 = concentration Of DO @ mg/l

Cs = saturation concentration of DO at local temperature.

Kd = deoxygenation rate co-efficient @ day-1

Ka = reaeration rate co-efficent @ day-1

5 = rate of oxygen take up per unit off NH-31 @ mg-0 / mg-N,

Bl = Ammonia oxidation rate co-efficient

N1 = ammonical nitrogen concentration @ mg-N/l

64

B2 = nitrate oxidation rate co-efficient @ day-1

N2 = nitrate nitrogen concentration @ mg-N/l

For the conversions from 5 day BOD to ultimate BOD following equation is

used:

BOD5 = BODu (1.0 - exp (-5* KBOD) ............(4)

Where,

BOD5 = 5 day BOD @ mg/l

BODu = ultimate BOD @mg/l

KBOD = BOD conversion rate co-efficient @ day-1

Following differential equations governing transformations of organic

nitrogen to ammonia, to nitrate and finally to nitrate are used in QUAL2E.

DN4

------ = -B31N4 ……………………………….(5)

dt

N4 = concentration of organic nitrogen @ mg-N/l

B3 = rate constant of hydrolysis of organic nitrogen to

ammonia nitrogen @ day-1

DN1

----- = B3N4 ─ B1N1 ……………………………… (6)

dt

Where,

N1 = concentration of ammonical nitrogen @ mg-N/l

B1 = rate constant for oxidation of ammonical nitrogen @day-1

dN2

----- = B1N1 ─ B2N2 ………………………………(7)

dt

N2 = concentration of nitrate nitrogen @ mg-N/l

B2 = rate constant for oxidation of nitrate nitrogen @ day-1

65

dN3

----- = B2 N2 ………………………………(8)

Dt

In order to calculate the river flow velocity, when the cross sectional

properties of the stream segments are available as a function of the depth ‘d’,

the wetted area. Ax is calculated as a function of discharge by solving Manning’s

Equation using Newton-Raphson Method:

1

q = ----- AxRx2/3Sl/2 ………………….. (9)

n

where,

Rx = mean effective hydraulic radius/m

N = Manning’s roughness factor

S = slope of energy grade line

Q = discharge, m3/s

The average flow velocity is then calculated by the following equation:

U = Q/Ax ……………………(10)

Selection Of Model Parameters

The simulated water quality profile for a given model structure (as

described by equations 1 and 3 above), in addition to initial conditions such as

upstream water quality and quantity and forcing functions such as wastewater

inputs, is greatly influenced by the selection of values for model parameters.

The selection of model parameters, therefore, constitutes a very important step

in water quality monitoring and is termed as model calibration.

The exercise of model calibration basically consists of two steps. Firstly,

in-situ data on river water quality at various longitudinal locations together with

data on effluent characteristics and, hydraulic parameters is collected. This step

66

is followed by an exercise of matching the predicted water quality to the

observed one by adjusting the value of model parameters. Those values of

model parameters which provide a good match with the observed values are

chosen for prediction of water quality under different scenarios.

Such procedure for model calibration, however, could not be followed

since there is no wastewater discharge from the proposed cement plant so as to

provide water quality observations for model calibration. It was necessary to

take recourse to alternate methods to assign appropriate values to model

parameters.

As stated earlier the water quality predictions by means of modeling

exercise can be undertaken for the worst case characterized by upset conditions

of biological treatment plant. Under such conditions the effluents are expected

to contain significant concentrations of moderately biodegradable waste matter.

BOD decay coefficient in the river basin can be taken as 0.5/day which

represents a middle value on low side of the range reported for the coefficient in

the literature.

The value of re-aeration coefficient is calculated based on the expression

provided by Dobbins and Oconner which is suitable for the hydraulic

characteristics of river during the low flow conditions.

As regard to the selection of model parameters for simulation of nitrogen

species, it is observed from literature that rate coefficients for organic nitrogen

hydrolysis, ammonia oxidation and nitrate oxidation vary from 0.1 to 0.4(day-1),

0.1 to 0.4 (day-1) and 2.0 to 5.0 (day-1) respectively. Due to the want of data to

estimate these parameters for river, middle values of the respective ranges can

be taken for model predictions.

4.1.5. LAND ENVIRONMENT

Soil Characteristics

It is clear from the Table 3.2.4.1 that the soil at the proposed cement

plant will require special management considerations with reference to neutral

pH and leaching predominating clay nature. Acidic soils have higher solubility of

67

salts as a function of pH and leaching processes are prevalent. Due to

characteristic climatic conditions (deciduous evergreen forest) and typical

ecosystem of the area, recycling of organic nutrients is very fast. A slight

disturbance in the natural processes which is quite evident in the area where

land has been used for other purposes (other than natural vegetation, forest

etc.) such as industrialisation and other human activities.

Solid Waste

During rainy season, surface run-off will also carry the hazardous

materials and may spoil the ecology of the surrounding environment.

The acidic nature and low cation exchange capacity (CEC) of soils further

enhance the possibility of leaching toxic metals and other injurious constituents.

4.1.6. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

Terrestrial Biology

Green Belt Development

In order to predict the impact on air environment and to device mitigation

strategy for further emissions, noise besides reusing the treated solid wastes,

green belt design approach through modeling was adopted. Estimation of

optimal width of green belt in and around the proposed plant is based on

pollution attenuation coefficient of selected plant species of deciduous forest as

reported in literature.

The model used for the estimation of pollution attenuation factor of green

belt around the proposed cement plant pollution source has been developed

using a combination of an exponential law for dry removal of pollution while

traveling on natural surface and plant canopy of green belt. The pollution

attenuation factor (AF) is given by the equation:

FD (X1 +X2)

AF = ----------------------------------------------------

He he

FD(X1) er F ------ e - X2 + erFc ------F’D(X2)

2 2 (X1) 2 2 (X1)

68

where,

X2 = width of green belt (m)

He = effective height of green belt (m)

= pollution attenuation co-efficient (m-1)

X1 = separation distance between the green belt and pollution

source (m)

FD(X1 +X2) and FD(X1) are the plume depletion factors due to dry

deposition of pollutant on natural surface for downwind distances (X1 +X2) and

X1 respectively.

FD(X2) is the plume depletion factor for distance (X2) above green belt and

is obtained as follows:

FD (X1 +X2)

FD(X2) = ------------------ ………………….(2)

FD(X1)

The plume depletion factor FD(X) for any distance X has been calculated

using:

FD (X) = exp 1/Z exp ─ H2 /2Z2 δz ─ (2/) ½ Vd/U

where,

H = release height (m)

δz = standard deviation of concentration distribution in

vertical (m) direction for downstream distance X

Vdp = Dry deposition velocity (m/s)

U = Mean Wind Speed (m/s)

The concept of effective height ‘he’ (which is less than the physical height

of the green belt) is introduced to account for reduced wind speed in the green

belt region. The value of ‘he’ has been computed from me following relationship:

Uz δz = hUc

Where,

69

Uz = is the wind speed profile outside the green belt

Uc = is the average wind speed inside the green belt. The pollution

attenuation coefficient of (m-1) of the green belt is given by:

K t Vd/Uc

where,

t = foliage surface area density of single tree (w2m

3)

c

K = ----

T

c= average foliage surface area density of the green belt(m2m-3)

Vdg = dry deposition velocity of the pollutant (ms-1) for the

vegetative canopy

The main gaseous pollutants expected from cement plant are sulphur di-

oxide (S02), CO and particulate matters as this will be generated during the

process of manufacturing of cement. Dry deposition velocities on natural surface

(Vdp) and on vegetation (Vdg), wind speed outside the green belt (Uz) and wind

speed inside green belt (Uc) used for calculation of optimum thickness of green

belt for S02 and hydrocarbons. Variation of attenuation factor (AF) with respect

to distance of green belt from the source (X1) has been depicted for 5, 10, 15

and 20m tree heights. It is clear that attenuation is far greater if the plantation

is near to the source, while after 500m as one moves away from the source,

attenuation remain more or less constant irrespective of height of trees. It is

obviously seen that the attenuation factor increases with the width of green

belt(X2) (i.e. optimum width) as well as with height of trees up to a certain

extent and there after remains same irrespective of the width. It is calculated

that plants of 5, 10, 15 and 20m heights can reduce the pollution impact by 31,

50, 60 and 70% respectively; while in absence of green belt the surrounding

zone will be exposed to the fugitive pollutants that will be emitted from the

cement plant (Table 4.1.6.1 and Figure 4.1.6.1).

70

Figure 4.1.6.1: Variation of attenuation factor (Af) as a function width

of green belt (X2) and tree height

71

Table 4.1.6.1: Inputs to green belt development

Pollutant Vdp Vdg Uc Uz

SO2 0.011 0.018 0.5 2.0

Vdp = Dry Deposition Velocity

Vdg = Dry Deposition velocity on vegetation

Uc = Wind velocity within green belt

Uz = Wind velocity over green belt

The authorities of Dragon Cement Industries Pvt. Ltd. are enlightened

about the necessity and maintenance of greenery inside and outside the plant

site, but the systematic approach to the concept of green belt for pollution

attenuation need entirely different planning and hence the necessary

modifications were proposed.

The prime considerations for recommending green belt plantation

scheme are:

Nature of pollutants.

Emission levels.

Maximum impacted zone.

While considering the above aspects due care is necessary for selecting

the plant species with the following suitable characteristics:

Should be fast growing.

Thick canopy cover.

Perennial and evergreen.

Large leaf area index.

Preferably indigenous.

Resistant to specific air pollutants.

Should maintain regional ecological balance and soil and

hydrological conditions of the region.

72

Aquatic Biology

Since there will be almost negligible amount of treated effluent from the

proposed cement plant therefore there will be no impact on river water within

the impact zone.

General Guidelines

Trees growing up to 10 meters or more in height should be planted

around the plant installation.

Planting of trees should be undertaken in appropriate encircling rows

around the installation in alternating rows to prevent horizontal

pollution dispersion.

Trees should be planted along road sides, to arrest auto exhaust and

noise pollution, and in such a way that there is no direct line of sight

to the installation when viewed from a point outside the foliage

parameter.

Since tree trunks are normally devoid of foliage (up to 3 m). It

would be appropriate to have shrubbery in front of such trees to

give coverage to this portion.

The open areas within the campus should be covered with lawn

grass for effective trapping and absorption of air pollutants.

Fast growing trees with thick perennial foliage should be grown as it

will take many years for trees to grow to their full height.

4.1.7. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

Setting up of the cement plant in the area would bring forth certain

impacts altering the pristine socio-economic environment. Some of these

impacts would be of direct consequence to the environment whereas the others

would be of secondary or of ripple nature. Positive impacts can be enumerated

as:

Employment opportunities to the local people would increase

considerably due to the construction and operation of the plant.

73

Increased facilities in the field of medicine, water supply, housing,

sanitation etc. would definitely crop up.

The cement plant will fill the gap of supply. This will augment the

process of industrial development of the area as well as it carries

higher revenue for the concerned Government authorities.

Negative impacts can be enumerated as:

Influx of workers during construction and manufacturing phase

would put strain on the existing basic amenities in the area.

The area is endowed with scenic beauty and green foliage and

forests. Setting up the cement may disturb the scenic beauty.

Based on our findings, it is anticipated that the positive impacts would

outweigh the negative ones and thus a net positive impact on socio-economic

environment is visualized. Table 4.1.7.1 consists of parameters for prediction of

impact on socio-economic environment.

74

Table 4.1.7.1 PREDICTION OF IMPACTS ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

PARAMETER ST LT RE IR L R

Employment opportunities + + + +

Housing + +

Education + +

Medical Facilities + +

Transportation + +

Water supply & Sanitation + +

Economic Benefits + + +

Welfare and Recreational + +

Health Effects -

Agriculture

Fishing Grounds

Forest Degradation

Aesthetic Environment - - ST = Short Term (+ ) = Positive LT = Long Term (-) = Negative RE = Reversible IR = Irreversible L = Local

75

4.2. EVALUATION OF IMPACT

A mathematical/ statistical environmental model for evaluation of the

impact to be generated from the proposed cement plant was generated and its

impact was observed as enumerated.

BATTELIE ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION SYSTEM

Environmental quality assessment can be undertaken by evaluating

various environmental parameters. These parameters represent the various

component of environment viz, biological environment, environmental pollution

incorporating water, air, land and noise pollution, aesthetics and human

interests. Functional relationships have to be developed for each parameter

relating it with environmental quality.

A weighing scaling checklist has to be used for assigning important weight

for each parameter by an inter-disciplinary team of experts drawn from different

fields. Ranked pair wise comparison technique also has to be used to arrive at

the parameter importance units (PIU).

Impact evaluation has to be accomplished through the use of functional

relationship according to Batteile Environmental Evaluation System (BEES).

Functional relationships also called value function curves, refer to graphical

means of transforming environmental data (baseline and predicted) into

subjective evaluation. Objective measurements are to be presented into a

subjective interpretation of Environment Quality (EQ) on a scale of 0 to 1 where

1 stands for excellent environmental quality and 0 for poor quality.

An index is calculated in terms of Environmental Impact Units (EIU) for

each parameter and for different environmental conditions.

EIU = (EQ) ij (PIU)I

where,

EIU = environmental impact units for ‘j’th alternative

EQ = environmental quality scale for ‘i’th factor and ‘j’th

Alternative

PIU = parameter importance units for ‘i’th factor

76

The environmental parameters for the said coke industry have been

identified and distributed in four categories presented in Fig IV-1. The changes

in HU have been calculated for pristine environment and existing environmental

status with implementation of EMP.

Biological Environment

Impacts on parameters of this component have been studied and it is

evident that some negative impacts are possible, however it is not significant

enough to disturb the ecological balance of this area.

Environmental Pollution

At present water pollution in the area is non-existing. After commissioning

of the cement plant, there will be marginal impact on the environment. After the

implementation of the EMP, the final impact shall not be significant. Water

environment improvements are expected under normal conditions.

Since assimilative capacity of the water bodies and the rivers nearby are

very good there are little chances of any adverse impact on water quality due to

this cement industry. Fisheries and aquatic flora and fauna shall also not be

impacted.

Deterioration in air quality improvement is foreseeable from the present

status of clean atmosphere but the impact shall be confined within short

distances. However, for the improvement in the conditions after measures are

suggested in EMP. These measures are adopted so that the pristine environment

is not affected. Impact shall be kept minimum on land environment.

Noise pollution will have some negative impact because of the unavoidable

noise sources within the plant. However, there is contribution of noise from the

surrounding road and habitation also. Mitigation measures as control at the

source as well as control through green belt (inside and out-side) shall keep the

impact marginal.

77

Aesthetics

Appearance of water body will be preserved after adopting EMP. Natural

vegetation and its diversity will be maintained for green belt development.

Human Interest

Major contribution is expected towards casual labours employment which

will improve after the setting up of the cement plant. The economy output due

to the cement industry is positive besides enhancement of community services.

Overall Impact

Impact on the total project area would be marginal in certain sectors viz,

biological environment, water, air, land and noise environment and aesthetics

and gross improvement in other aspects of human interest. Large beneficial

impacts are due to cement welfare activities and adoption of EMP.

The impact statement focuses on the study area of 5 km radius around

the site. The four basic environmental components likely to get affected are:

Air Environment

Water environment

Land environment

Socio-economic environment

For all the environmental parameters impact identification, measurement,

prediction of data and finally evaluation has been done to arrive at the complete

scenario of adverse or beneficial impacts. Moreover, the presence of many

industries within the study zone adds to the problem of impact of pollution on

the environment. Most of the industries are without any pollution control

measures. Therefore, it has not been an easy task to calculate the actual impact

on the environment of the area. So, we can say that the impact of any single

cement plant will be negligible but altogether the cluster of industries might

contribute to pollution in the zone.

78

4.3.1. Air Environment

The existent ambient air quality in the Doboka area as affected by the

overall pollution caused by the fumes from vehicles running through the NH-54

and the machineries involved in the construction of the roads. This will change

once the EMP measures are adopted. EMP measures have been proposed to

mitigate long term as well as short term impact so that general air pollution is

brought down. Since there are other major industrial units around the project

site, the air pollution scenario will be definitely affected and therefore,

improvement in the air quality is a must.

Human settlement and forest vegetation will not be affected to any

significant extent due to the proposed cement plant. Since an appreciable

improvement in air environment is expected after implementation of EMP. SOx

and NOx will be mitigated by development of green belt thus avoiding any

complaints from human settlement areas.

4.3.2. Noise Environment

Noise environment due to the proposed cement plant will be significant for

the workers working in the manufacturing sector and therefore, mitigation

measures suggested for the workers protection should be adopted.

Noise levels in nearby villages and settlements near highways are in

general high because of heavy traffic on major highway and noise generated

from social/religious functions and therefore, do not need any special

attenuation.

4.3.3. Water Environment

Surface Water

Surface water quality will not be affected as there will be no discharge of

wastewater from the proposed cement plant into the nearby river. The slightest

amount of wastewater if disposed off will be treated to meet MINAS limits.

79

Ground Water

Whole study area has high water table due to adequate rains and low rate

of ground water withdrawal. Water quality of village well/ponds will not be

affected by effluent of the proposed cement plant. Minor treatment with pot

chlorinator and maintenance of hygienic condition around wells can improve the

general ground water quality. Ground water, however, can be used for irrigation

without any adverse affects on land.

4.3.4. Land Environment

Mitigation measures suggested in EMP will minimize any impact on land.

Primarily as there will be no discharge of any sludge from the proposed cement

plant, therefore the question of recycling and re-use of major portion of sludges

does not arise at all.

4.3.5. Socio-Economic Environment

The impacts on the socio-economic status of the project area are both

positive and negative. However, no drastic changes are expected. Overall health

improvement and better sense of well-being will be generated after following the

measures as envisaged in EMP.

80

5. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

5.1. POST-PROJECT OPERATION

5.1.1. Air Environment

Ambient air quality monitoring at different averaging time depict that

occasional peak of SO2 and SPM concentrations for short term period within 1-5

km can occur during emergency release depending upon wind direction/ speed.

Exposure of sensitive receptors located well within the study zone of 5 km shall

be within acceptable level for long term as well as short term emergency

releases. Further short term (8 hr average) as well as long term

(seasonal/annual averages) concentrations will remain well within the

permissible levels of CPCB (120 ug/m3 : 8 hr average : 90 percentile and 80

ug/m3 : annual average) even leaving ample scope for overall development of

the region. But the following mitigation plan shall help further in maintaining

ecological balance in the region.

Stack emissision monitoring will be done at fixed interval of time.

The weight scrubbing will further reduce the pollution of the pollutants far

below the prescribed limits.

Pollution Control Measures

Dust, NOx, SO2 and VOC emissions are subject to continuous monitoring

standard as per the recommendation. Heat recovered from the kiln and clinker

cooler is recycled for preheating the raw meal, reducing thermal energy

consumption. Unburnt volatile matters contribute to emission of pollutant

through the stack particularly to the emission of suspended particulate

matter(SPM).

The wet scrubbing will further reduce the emission of the pollutants far

below the prescribed limit without sacrificing the chimney draught for which

proper chimney height has to be made. The water spray also dissolves some

SOx carried over by the flue to the chimney. The crusher machine has to be

81

operated in a close compartment to avoid dust and noise pollution. Moreover,

there have to be green plantation of at least 5 m width through out the

boundary wall of the cement plant.

The following standards for emission are based on those notified by the

Government of India under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 and modified

from time to time. The standards are fixed as follows: -

(i) New Unit Particulate matter 150mg/m3

(Corrected to 6% C02)

SOx: Below acceptable limit When “Sulphur” in

coal is less than 1%. However, generation of SOx

is sensitive to sulphur content of the coal charged.

NOx: Below acceptable limit.

Note: A minimum stack height of 120 m shall be provided.

(ii) Emissions from cement plant shall be channelised through a vent and

finally emitted through a stack. Damper adjustment techniques shall be

used to have optimum heat utilization and also to control the emission of

unburnt carbon particles and combustible flue gases.

(iii) Wet scrubbing system or waste heat utilization for power generation or

by-product recovery systems should be installed preferably to achieve the

prescribed standards.

It is apparent from the baseline study that the status of noise pollution at

all the community locations including sensitive zones viz, residential areas,

schools, hospitals etc. are within the permissible exposure limit (IS-4954).

Average rise in community noise level due to the various processes in the

cement plant is likely to be less than 32 dB(A). This is within the prescribed limit

of acceptable noise level. The levels will further be attenuated by more than

50% with the implementation of green belt as recommended.

The inplant workers particularly those working near higher noise sources

may be exposed to noise level higher than the 90 dBA. In the cement plant such

exposures should be restricted to a shorter duration as high tech noise pollution

82

control equipments are to be installed in the proposed plant wherein the noise

levels shall be well below the Occupational Exposure Limit(OSHA) of 90 dB(A)

for 8 hr shift and 6 days working.

Further the provisions of ear plugs or ear muffs should be made for the

inplant workers having duties at such places to avoid exposure to high levels

whenever they come near to high noise generating operation. But this is only a

temporary measure, as many a time/ workers do not continuously use these

equipments due to personal discomfort etc. Noise levels at other locations within

the study zone of 5 kms in general are not likely to exceed 65 dB(A).

Green belt designed for the proposed cement plant for control of air

pollution of fugitive nature shall also be adequate to attenuate the noise

pollution because the maximum noise of 60-65 dB(A) calculated at the project

site without any major existing green belt, shall further attenuate by minimum

of 50%.

5.1.3. Water Environment

It is found that no industrial effluent will be discharged from the cement

plant. However, there is every possibility of surface run-off caused by

precipitation. Proper maintenance schedule are needed to be planned and

implemented.

Proper drainage system should be made and all the sanitary waste are to

be diverted into a septic tank followed by soak pit.

Trained personal should be responsible for upgrading all the modern day

electronic gadgets to check the water pollution at all levels.

5.1.4. Land Environment

As described in previous chapters there will be no solid and hazardous

disposal from the proposed cement plant. However, there are chances of surface

run-off caused by precipitation which may at times carry suspended solids and

also dissolved solids. This may cause soil pollution. To mitigate this proper

drainage and sanitation system should be made all along the boundary.

83

5.1.5. Biological Environment

The green belt development around the project site should be designed

taking into consideration the local indigenous plant species. Efficiency of green

belt in pollution abatement depends mainly on the width of green belt distance

from the source and tree height. Green belt development is primarily effective

for fugitive emissions. The pollutants mainly identified for cement industries are

SPM, SOx, NOx, dust etc. which are mitigated through optimal size of green belt

in 500m. From noise pollution point of view much smaller width shall suffice.

Also the units which are potentially capable of generating emission should be

identified and adequate space for growing plant in three to four rows should be

reserved. The plantation should be done on the both sides of the plant site

boundary as also along the low lying open fields around the plant site if possible.

Social Forestry and community plantation program is recommended. List of

species selected for planting green belt is enclosed in Table

Though the prevailing wind direction is in the South-East, it should be

desirable to have green belt all around the boundary of the cement plant. So far

as the site premises is concerned, it is suggested that plantation in double rows

can be done all along the open fields on both sides of the site and approach road

as well as within the campus. Lawns and shrubs can be grown on the space

available to arrest fugitive emissions. The inplant site where it would be

necessary to arrest fugitive emissions:

(i) All along the boundary wall.

(ii) Around the low lying areas.

Around the project site plants in more than two rows should be planted.

All around the inside of boundary wall tall trees with height more than 10m

should be planted to maintain the ecological balance of the area as a whole.

84

5.1.6. Socio-economic Environment

It is revealed from the studies that the following socio-economic factors

need to be considered while implementing EMP.

Welfare activities like provision of medical facilities, development of sports

etc. which are rather poor in the area should be taken up as a measure of

goodwill;

To intensify the Social Forestry Program;

To properly manage the natural ecosystem at all possible levels;

To monitor the pollution levels by sensitive plant species;

To monitor the status of vegetation with the help of density and

percentage vegetation cover, diversity indices and IVI values;

85

6. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

6.1. Air pollution sources and control measures

In the proposed cement plant suitable pollution control equipments shall

be selected which will ensure that the emission levels are maintained below the

prescribed unit. All pollution control equipment in the proposed cement plant is

designed for an outlet emission of less than 50 mg/m3 of suspended particulate

matter.

Hammer mill

420 cfm (714 m3/hr) (3 HP)

Cyclone separator with multicyclone collector or pulse jet bag filter system.

Raw mill

1280 cfm (2175 m3/hr) (5HP)

Reverse pulse jet bag filter system

Cement mill

1280 cfm (2175 m3/hr) (5HP)

Reverse pulse jet bag filter system

Kiln

820 cfm (1393 m3/hr) (7.5 HP) output 1000mm diameter chimney

Impingement plate scrubber i.e. air jet wash system with 4000 cfm twin lobe

rotary compressor.

86

Figure 6.1.1.: Bag filter type dust collector

For cement plant, two types of monitoring systems are proposed for

emission monitoring and ambient air quality monitoring systems. The ambient

air quality monitoring systems are recommended for monitoring variations in

ground level concentrations, while emission monitoring will cover stack and

fugitive emissions.

The stack emission is to be monitored monthly by a State Pollution Control

Board approved monitoring agencies.

The cement plant will have to continuously monitored for SOx, NOx and

SPM as recommended by the State Pollution Control Board. The pollutants

should be monitored on weekly basis for evaluation of any possible threats to

the environment in the near future.

A weather station for wind speed, direction, temperature and rainfall is

also recommended to be installed within the premises of the plant.

87

6.2. Noise Environment

Monitoring of noise levels is essential to assess the efficiency of

maintenance schedules undertaken to reduce noise levels and noise protection

measures. A good quality sound pressure level meter is essential for this

purpose. Dragon Cement Pvt. Ltd. Is procuring Compressors and Generators

with acoustic enclosure.

6.3. Water Environment

There will be no waste water generated due to the process.The sanitary

waste is diverted into a septic tank followed by soak pit. Therefore, suggestions

regarding their disposal and treatment have not been covered in details. Here,

we can at least say that the pollution control measures regarding wastewater

discharge should be followed in accordance with the norms of the State Pollution

Control Board. Whatever wastewater is generated from the plant will be

recycled.

Rain water harvesting: Based on the available data on roof area one rain

harvesting pit have been envisaged, to ensure surging of ground water. Pits will

be made with gravel and sand filled in as filtering media.

6.4. Land Environment

At times suspended solids and also dissolved solids may contaminate the

soil. This may cause soil pollution. To mitigate this proper drainage system

should be made all along the boundary of the proposed cement plant in order to

discharge any kind of waste to the river outlet by all possible means. Soil

parameters like pH, conductivity, NPK ratio etc. Soil testing should be done on

case to case basis.

Solid waste generation is mainly from the pollution control equipments

which is negligible but periodically recycled after the containers placed beneath

the rotary valve of the respective dust collectors are adequately filled in.

88

7. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM (EMP)

Monitoring is one of the most important components of the management

system. Continuous monitoring needs to be carried out for regulatory permit

requirements, environmental effects and performance of EMP implementation.

The project authorities are planning to set up Safety and Environmental cell to

ensure that mitigation measures are implemented and their effectiveness

monitored, after approval of the EIA.

Environmental Monitoring Program for Dragon Cement Industries Pvt. Ltd. At Doboka

Sl. No. Environmental indicator Monitoring parameter Period & Frequency

1 Terrestrial habitat / vegetation cover

Number of matured trees to be felled Species Diversity Index

During site planning

2 Topsoil Area planned for storage Weekly during site preparation

3 Fugitive emission of dust during site preparation

Visual observation of dust in air by haziness

Daily during site preparation

4 Supervision of movement of heavy vehicles within site

Number of vehicles reported with movement outside platform area and access road

Daily

5 Fugitive emission of dust during material handling and storage

Visual observation of dust in air by haziness

Daily

6 Soil fertility Fertility parameters like pH, NPK ratio, total carbon

Once during site preparation

7 Quality of water Visual observation, Analysis of parameters as per CPCB standards

Monthly

8 Ambient air quality Visual observation, Odour/smell Measurement of SPM, SOx, NOx, CO

Monthly

9 Ambient noise quality Hearing/perception Measurement of noise level in dB(A)

Monthly

10 Condition of natural habitat Visual observation of signs of pollution and degradation

Monthly

11 Solid waste Mass of waste generated Storage and disposal details

Daily

12 Groundwater quality Analysis of parameters as per standard

Monthly

89

8. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

Dragon cement Pvt. Ltd. is a firm believer in eco-friendly industrialization

which leads to the development of the area. It will follow the norms and

guidelines of State and Central Pollution Control Boards. They are also planning

to undertake many socio-economic development activities in the area to bring

about overall improvements in the area. Therefore, the project may be accorded

environmental clearance.