TAMIL NADU MINERALS LIMITED
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE OVER AN EXTENT OF
16.95.00 HECTARES LOCATED IN S.F. NO. 189 (P) OF MYLARWADA VILLAGE, PALLIPATTUTALUK, THIRUVALLUR DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU
PREPARED BY JUNE 2015 1 (a), MINING OF MINERALS, CATEGORY A
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
INDEX
INDEX
SL.NO. DESCRIPTION PAGE NO
I. EIA REPORT CHAPTERS
1. INTRODUCTION 1 - 10
2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 11 - 34
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 35 - 76
4. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND
MITIGATION MEASURES 77 - 106
5. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES (TECHNOLOGY AND SITE) 107 - 108
6. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN 109 - 116
7. ADDITIONAL STUDIES 117 - 152
8. PROJECT BENEFITS 153 - 154
9. ADMINISTRATIVE ASPECTS 155 - 156
10. SUMMARY & CONCLUSION 157 - 166
11. DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS 167 - 172
II. ANNEXURE
ANNEXURE I - MOEF TOR COPY 173 - 180
ANNEXURE II - COMPLIANCE TO TOR 181 - 194
ANNEXURE III - MINING G.O. AND LEASE DEED 195 - 206
ANNEXURE IV - APPROVED MINING PLAN 207 - 244
ANNEXURE V - BASELINE MONITORING REPORT 245 - 252
ANNEXURE VI - PROCEEDINGS OF PUBLIC HEARING 253 - 268
ANNEXURE VII - QP APPRAISAL OF MINING 269 - 284
ANNEXURE VIII - DISCLOSURE OF ENVIRONMENT
CONSULTANT 285 - 286
I
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Purpose of the Report
Tamil Nadu Minerals Limited popularly known as Tamin is a wholly owned blue chip
company of the Government of Tamil Nadu started in 1978. Tamin is engaged in the
exploitation, processing and marketing of Granite and other minerals such as Limestone,
Vermiculite, Quartz, Feldspar, and Indian Standard Graphite.
This report is in conformity with the objectives of TAMIN as well as in compliance of
Rule 12 of Granite Conservation and Development Rules, 1999 (hereinafter referred to
as GCDR, 1999). The mining plan has been prepared in respect of the Black granite
deposit available in located at S.F. No. 189 (part) of Mylarwada Village, Pallipattu Taluk,
Thiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu State for which TAMIN has applied for quarry lease and
the District Collector, Thiruvallur District has also recommended the same to the
Commissioner of Geology and Mining, Guindy, Chennai. The Government in their Lr. No.
1574/MM5/2008 Dated: 25-01-2012 has communicated the precise area for the
above villages.
As per the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification dated 14th September
2006 and its subsequent amendments and Supreme Court order of February 27, 2012,
the proposed granite quarry mining project falls under ‘Category A’, as project site is the
Inter State Boundary of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu which requires Environmental
Clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). TAMIN as a part of the
compliance to the regulatory requirement i.e, to obtain Environmental Clearance from
from Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), Government of India, New Delhi for
the proposed project has appointed ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited, Chennai as
Environmental Consultants who are accreditated by National Accreditation Board for
Education and Training (NABET) - Quality Council of India (QCI), New Delhi.
1
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
1.2 Identification of Project & Project Proponent
1.2.1 Project
The proposed Black Granite Mine is Over an Extent of 16.95.00 ha located in S.F. No. 189
(P) of Mylarwada village, Pallipattu Taluk, Thiruvallur District. The area lies in the
northern latitude of 13°04’02”N and eastern longitude of 79°21’38”E. The area is marked
in the survey of India Toposheet No.57-0/8. TAMIN has applied for quarry lease and the
District Collector, Thiruvallur District has also recommended the same to the
Commissioner of Geology and Mining, Guindy, Chennai. The Government in their Lr. No.
1574/MM5/2008 Dated: 25-01-2012 has communicated the precise area for the above
villages.
The major purpose of mine development is to provide auxiliary and support facilities for
physically opening a surface or underground, or mine and bringing it to full production is
to be planned. The facilities will not contribute directly to the production operation. It is
a period of intensive and diversified activity on the project site with environmental
impacts, which are usually different in nature from operational impacts, which are
crucial for successful environmental management.
1.2.2 Project Proponent
TAMIN entered the international granite market in the year 1979 and has secured a
steady market for dimensional blocks of black and other colour materials in countries
like Japan, Germany, Italy, Australia, UK, Switzerland, Holland, USA etc. Tamin has also
been marketing granite cubes with sides measuring 6 cm to 12 cm. TAMIN has
developed expertise in the mining of granite dimensional stones of different varieties
including black granite (Dolerite), Kashmir white (Leptynite), Paradiso (Migmatite
gneiss), Green onyx (Syenite - porphyry) Red wave (Pink Feldspathic gneiss) Colombo
Juparana (Pegmatitic granite gneiss of migmatitic origin), Raw silk (Yellow feldspathic
Lepthnite) and a number of other coloured granite varieties apart from other industrial
minerals viz. quartz and feldspar, graphite, lime stone, silica sand, vermiculite, etc.
2
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
1.3 Brief Description of the Project
1.3.1 Nature of the Project
The proposed project is production of black granite in the mine lease area and is
classified as “Category-A” as the project site is the interstate boundary of Tamil Nadu
and Andhra Pradesh by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, New Delhi
as per the EIA Notification dated on 14th September, 2006, amended.
1.3.2 Size of the Project
The proposed project site is an extent of 16.95 ha and production capacity is 20,172 m3
per Annum ROM of granite. The total cost of the proposed project is estimated as Rs. 1
Crore.
1.3.3 Location of the Project
The proposed Black Granite Mine is Over an Extent of 16.95.00 ha located in S.F. No. 189
(P) of Mylarwada village, Pallipattu Taluk, Thiruvallur District. The area lies in the
northern latitude of 13°04’02”N and eastern longitude of 79°21’38”E. The area is marked
in the survey of India Toposheet No.57-0/8. Location map of the proposed project is
shown in Figure 1.1 and the survey of India Toposheet map of the project is shown in
Figure 1.2.
1.3.4 Connectivity
The Mylarwada malai is spotted on the western side of the Sholingur - Walaja road. A
road branches on Sholingur - Walaja road at about 5 kms from Sholingur. The Mylarwada
malai is well connected by a tar road upto a km and there from by cart road upto the foot
hill. The area lies on southern side of Mylarwada village. The nearest town is Sholingur
which is situated at about 8 kms. The nearest railway station is also Sholingur and the
port is Chennai port which is about 120 kms.
The mode of Transport of the granite blocks produced and marketed is by road to
various consumer destinations and granite processing units located at different part, of
the country. The blocks approved for export market are shipped through Chennai /
Tuticorin Harbours to various countries.
3
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
FIGURE - 1.1: GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION OF THE PROJECT
4
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
FIGURE - 1.2: GOOGLE IMAGE OF THE PROJECT
5
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
1.4 Scope of the Study
In line with the MoEF prescribed Terms of Reference (TOR), the area comprising 10 km
radius around the mine lease boundary is considered as the study area. The EIA/EMP
report has been prepared for the project following the generic structure specified in the
EIA Notification 2006. The detailed studies have been conducted as per prescribed TOR.
The study area map is shown in Figure-1.2.
The scope of study broadly covered:
• Literature review and collection of data relevant to the study area;
• Establish the baseline environmental aspects in and around the proposed Integrated
project;
• Identify various existing pollution loads due to various mining activities;
• Predict incremental levels of pollutants in the study area due to the proposed
operations;
• Evaluate the predicted impacts on various environmental attributes in the study area
by using scientifically developed and widely accepted environmental impact
assessment methodologies;
• Prepare a Environment Management Plan (EMP) outlining the measures for
improving the environmental quality; and
• Identify critical environmental attributes that are required to be monitored in the
post-project scenario.
The scope also includes all the conditions outlined in the TORs prescribed by MoEF for
the mining project vide letter No. J-11015/162/2013-IA.II (M) dated September 2013.
TOR conditions and their compliance is given in Annexure – I & II. Field studies were
conducted during December 2013 to February 2014 to determine the existing conditions
of various environmental attributes. Environmental attributes and frequency of
monitoring are outlined in Table-1.1
6
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
Source: Survey of India, New Delhi
FIGURE - 1.3: STUDY AREA MAP (10 KM RADIUS)
7
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
TABLE - 1.1: ENVIRONMENTAL ATTRIBUTES AND FREQUENCY OF MONITORING
S. No.
Environmental
Component
Sampling Locations
Sampling Parameters
Sampling Period
Sampling Frequency
1. Meteorology One central location
Temperature, Wind Speed, Wind Direction, Rain fall, Relative Humidity, Cloud Cover
3 months Hourly / Rainfall - Daily
2. Ambient Air Quality
6 Locations PM10, PM2.5, SO2, NOx
Two days per week for 13 weeks
24 hourly
3. Water Quality 6 Ground, water Locations
As per IS:10500-1991
Grab sampling Once during study period
4. Noise 6 locations Leq 24 hourly composite
Once during study period
5. Soil 6 locations Soil profile, Chemical constituents, Suitability for agricultural growth
Composite sample
Once during study period
6. Terrestrial Ecology
Total study area
Flora and fauna Field observations
Once in study period
7. Demography and Socio-economic aspects
Total study area
Demographic profile
- -
8. Land Use Total study area
Trend of land use change for different categories
- -
8
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
S.
No. Environment
al Component
Sampling Locations
Sampling Parameters
Sampling Period
Sampling Frequency
9. Hydrology & Hydrogeology
Total study area
Drainage area and pattern, nature of streams, aquifer characteristics, recharge and discharge areas including pumping test.
As per Ground Water Estimation Committee recommendations of 1997
Once in Season
Source : ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited., Chennai
1.5 Methodology
The Environment Impact Assessment report has been prepared with the following steps:
1.5.1 Establishment of Baseline Environmental Status
A comprehensive database on the baseline environmental status/conditions of the study
area has been established through review, compilation & analysis of
i) Existing published secondary data/literature/information, and
ii) Primary data generated/collected through initial site surveys and field study
The field monitoring has been carried out as per the guidelines of CPCB and requirement
of the MoEF for one complete season. Field study/monitoring has been conducted on:
(i) Soil Quality
(ii) Water Quality
(iii) Ambient Air Quality
(iv) Noise
(v) Geology
(vi) Hydrology
(vii) Land Use Pattern
(viii) Ecological Aspects
(ix) Socio- Economic Aspects
9
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION
1.5.2 Environmental Impact Assessment
The project data/activities has been analyzed & linked with the existing baseline
environmental conditions in order to list out the affected environmental parameters and
assess the likely impacts on such parameters. Compliance of the project with national
standards has been duly checked.
1.5.3 Preparation of Environmental Management Plan
Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is the key to ensure a safe and clean
environment. The desired results from the environmental mitigation measures proposed
in the project may not be obtained without a management plan in order to assure its
proper implementation & function. The EMP envisages the plans for the proper
implementation of mitigation measures to reduce the adverse impacts arising out of the
project activities. EMP has been prepared addressing issues such as:
Details of management plans
Pollution control/mitigation measures for abatement of the undesirable impacts
caused during construction and operational activities
Maintenance of water resources and water quality
Institutional set up identified/recommended for implementation of the EMP
Post project environmental monitoring programme
10
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 Type of Project
The proposed project is open cast semi-mechanized black granite mining project with
the total production capacity of 20,172 m3 per Annum ROM of granite. Opencast mining
method has been adopted due to following reasons:
• Mining by opencast method will be economical against underground method.
• Opencast mining operations are comparatively safer and ensure higher recovery of
minerals.
• From conservation point of view, underground is not suitable as there are many
thicker sections.
2.2 Need of the Project
The black granite dimensional stone material by virtue of its pleasing colour and texture
such as and its best ability to take polishing and appealing look in polished product has
attracted the consumers in the building construction and interior decoration industries.
The domestic market capabilities have also been explored in recent periods. Bulk
quantity of the blocks produced are exported as raw blocks and some quantity is being
processed at TAMIN's Granite processing units and exported as value added finished
products.
2.3 Location of the Project Site
District
and State Taluk Village
Khasra No. Plot No.
Block No. Range,
Falling Series etc.
Area
(in ha)
Ownership /
Occupancy
Thiruvallur
Tamil Nadu Pallipattu Mylarwada S.F.No. 189 (part) 16.95.00
Govt.
Poromboke
land TOTAL 16.95.00
11
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
TABLE - 2.1: DETAILS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
S. No. Description Details 1. Site Location Proposed Black Granite Mine is Over an Extent of
16.95.00 ha., located at S.F. No.189 (part) of Mylarwada Village, Pallipattu Taluk, Thiruvallur District.
2. Topography Undulating Terrain 3. SOI Toposheet 57- O/8 4. Above Mean Sea level in
m 167 m above mean sea level
5. Nearest City Vellore - 29.8 km - Southwest 6. Nearest Highway State Highway 61 - 5 km - East 7. Nearest Railway Junction Walaja Junction - 10.6 km - South
Sholinganallur - 8 km - North 8.
Nearest Airport Chennai International Airport - 87 km - East Tirupathi Airport - 65.5 km - Northeast
9. Nearest Water Bodies/ River/Sea
Ponnai river - 8 km - West Palar river -16.6 km - Southwest Lake near SH 61- 4.1 km - South east Sholinghur lake - 6.4 km - Northeast
10. Archaeologically important places
None within 15 km radius
11. National parks/ Wildlife Sanctuaries
None within 15 km radius
12. Reserved/ Protected Forests
Srikalikapuram R.F - 8.8 km - Northeast Ammur R. F - 3 km - Southwest
13. Seismicity Zone II (Least Active) 14. Nearest
Habitations/Settlements Krishnan Kuppam (population :550) - 2 km -East Kodakkal Pudur (Population :240 ) - 4 km - East Bhimareddiyur (population :320) - 3 km - North Senkattanur - (Population :220) - 5 km -
Northwest 15. Ecologically Sensitive
Areas Nil
16. Nearby Quarries Rendadi - 2.1 km - NorthEast Kadakkal - 5.8 km - NorthEast
17. Defense Installations None within 15 km radius Source: ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited, Chennai
12
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.4 Size or Magnitude of Operation
The existing mine lease extends over an area of 16.95.00 ha. The silent features of the
proposed project are given in Table-2.3. The surface plan is shown in Figure-2.1.
TABLE - 2.2: LAND-USE SPLIT OF THE MINING LEASE AREA
S. No. Activity Area of Extent 1. Mining area 0.82.5 ha 2. Dumping Yard 2.28.5 ha 3. Infrastructure area 0.01.5 ha 4. Green-belt 0.02.5 ha 5. Barren land 13.76.5 ha
TOTAL 16.95.00 ha
TABLE - 2.3: SALIENT FEATURES OF THE PROJECT
S. No. Description Details 1. Mine lease 16.95.00 ha 2. Type of mine Open Cast 3. Method of mining Semi - Mechanized 4. Expected life of mine 30 years 5. Geological reserves 4,61,600 m3 6. Recoverable Geological reserves 13,848 m3 7. Mineable reserves 3,64,400 m3 8. Recoverable Mineable reserves 10,932 m3 9. Average no. of working days 300 day/year
10. Number of shifts 3 shifts/day 11. Man power (Nos/day) 31 12. Quantity of Black granite to be generated
during initial 5 years 3013.92 m3
13. Side burden 5300 m3 14. Granite Rejects to be generated during
entire life of mine in Metric Tonne 2,34,855 MT
15. No. of waste dumps planned 2 Nos 16. Height of waste dumps 30 m 17. Power requirement and its source 120 KVA, DG set 18. Water requirement 2.3 KLD
Source: Mine Plan
13
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
FIGURE - 2.1: SURFACE PLAN
14
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.5 Technology and Process Description
2.5.1 Technology
Primary step of mining of minerals is the removal of the deposits from the ground. Once
the minerals / ore are removed, additional preparation process is required to isolate the
valuable minerals from their waste gangue minerals. There are two basic method of
mining of minerals opencast and underground mining. The choice of method depends on
the geologic, hydrological, geo-technical, geographic, economic, technological,
environmental, safety, Socio - political and financial considerations. Table 2.4 gives a
classification of the prevalent mining methods.
FIGURE - 2.2: PROCESS INVOLVED IN SURFACE MINING
15
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The major purpose of mine development is to provide auxiliary and support facilities for
physically opening a surface or underground, or mine and bringing it to full production is
to be planned. The facilities will not contribute directly to the production operation. It is
a period of intensive and diversified activity on the project site with environmental
impacts, which are usually different in nature from operational impacts, which are
crucial for successful environmental management.
TABLE 2-4: CLASSIFICATION OF MINING METHODS
Method Deposit Surface Mining Quarrying Open cast Mining Placer Mining Solution Mining
Non metallic Coal, metal, Non-metallic Coal Metal, Non-metallic Non-metallic, metal
Underground Mining Unsupported/minimum
supported Supported (with fill) Caving
Coal, Non-metallic, Metal Coal, metal Coal, metal
2.5.2 Method of Mining
Open Cast Working
In accordance with the Regulation 106 (2)(a) of the Metalliferous Mines Regulations
1961, in all open cast workings where the ore body forms hard rock, the working faces
and sides should be adequately benched and sloped. A bench height not exceeding 6m
and a bench width not less than the height has to be maintained. The slope angle of such
benches and sides should not exceed 60° from the horizontal. However, observance of
these statutory provisions into in granite dimensional stone mining is seldom possible
due to the field difficulties and technical reasons as below:
• The granite mineral is to be recovered as undamaged rectangular dimensional
blocks. In the attempt to form the benches and sides with the above statutory
parameters, haphazard blasting may be involved, in which case the commercial
granite body may get spoiled due to generation of blasting cracks.
16
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
• In the exercise of forming the benches with 60° slope within the granite deposit, the
portion confined within the 60° as we as its complimentary part in the extricated
block will become as mineral waste while shaping into rectangular blocks.
• The granite industry needs blocks as huge as a few cubic meters volume with
measurements upto 3m x 2m x 2m. Production of such huge blocks with a moving
bench of 6m height is not possible. Production of such huge blocks in turn increases
the recovery and reduces the mineral waste during dressing. Blocks of smaller size
of certain varieties of granite are not marketable now-a-days.
• Formation of too many benches with more height and the width equal to the height
may lease to mineral lock up.
Hence in order to avoid granite waste and to facilitate economical and convenient mining
operations, it is proposed to obtain relaxation to the provisions of Regulation 106 (2) (a)
up to a bench parameter of 10m height and 3m width with vertical faces. Such a
provision for relaxation of the Regulation has been provided within the regulation 106
(2) (a). Further, it is to be noteworthy that opencast granite mining operations with the
above proposed bench parameters may not be detrimental to Mines Safety, since the
entire terrain is made up of hard rock, compact sheet and possess high stability on slope
even at higher vertical angles.
It is proposed not to backfill the pit in as much as good quantities of reserves are
underlying the pits. The stock yard for the granite blocks produced and the dressing yard
where the manual dressing and shaping of the blocks are carried out are located near the
working pit in order to minimize the lead from the pit to the dressing yard and stock
yard. A mine office, store room, first-aid room and workers rest shelter have been
provided.
2.5.3 Process Description
a) MINING
Open cast, semi-mechanized mining with 6 m vertical bench with a bench width of 6m
has been proposed. Under the regulation 106 (2) (a) of the Metalliferous Mines
Regulation 1961 in all open cast working in hard ore body, the benches and sides should
17
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
be properly benched and sloped. The eight of any bench shall not exceed 6m and the
width thereof shall not be less than the height.
The benches shall be sloped at an angle of more than 60° from the horizontal. The
production of Black granite dimensional stone in this mine involves the following
methods typical for granite stone mining, in contrast to any other major mineral mining.
1. Splitting of rock mass of considerable volume from the parent sheet rock carefully
avoiding any kind of damage in the form of cracks in the deposit by adopting the
following methods.
a. Separation of two vertical ends along the width side by diamond wire
cutting.
b. Separation of the horizontal (bottom) and the vertical (length side) planes
by serial blasting simultaneously along the above two plans by using
32mm dia blast holes charged with mild explosives like gunpowder or
detonating cord.
All the above process continued together aiming at the liberation of huge volume of the
granite body from the parent sheet rock is called ‘primary cutting’.
2. The secondary splitting in to required size involves long hole drilling up to the
bottom of the separated block and mild blasting along the required plans.
3. Now - a - days the secondary splitting is carried out by way of splitting and
overturning cushion operational procedure. The procedure is by utilizing the
compressed air available at the quarry at 7 to 8 bar pressure, initially (widening)
splitting up to 15 to 18 cms. Next by using super imposed cushion widening up to
80 cms and overturning of the blocks.
4. Removing the defective portions and dressing into the dimensional blocks are
done manually using feather and wedges and chiseling respectively by the
labourers who are skilled in this work.
The defect free rectangular shaped dimensional stones as acceptable to consumers are
produced by the method described as above which is constantly supervised by
experienced mining geologist. The waste material generated during mining activity
include the rock fragments of different angularity formed during the works, during the
18
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
removal of naturally defective and uneconomical portions of the deposits and the
working waster formed during dressing of the extricated blocks. Such waster material
are proposed to the dumped along northern side the lease boundary / barren area where
the commercial granite occurrences are not seen / the area covered with poor quality
granite deposit identified to be uneconomical due to sheared and contacted nature or the
presence of closely space natural joints, etc.
b) BLASTING
The blasting parameters in the mining of Granite dimensional stones are entirely
different from that of industrial minerals, since the basic purpose for the use of
explosives in both the cases are entirely different. In the industrial minerals, maximum
fragmentation and crushing of the ore is essential, whereas in the granite mining, the
granite stones are to be extricated intact, without any damage on both the extricated part
and the parent rock body. Wagon drilling and heavy blasting is seldom used in granite
mining.
The portion to be extricated from the parent rock body is freed in all planes by adopting
different methods as described in chapter 4.0. Only mild explosives such as gun powder,
detonating cord, ordinary detonators etc will be used for the production of granite
blocks. The blast holes of 32mm diameter are drilled upto the bottom of the horizontal
plane all along the required planes without deviations sub grade drilling is avoided, since
it may damage the underlying granite deposit.
Conventional 32 mm dia blast holes are drilled perfectly parallel to each other at 20 to
25cm intervals without any hole deviations, all along the required plane of splitting. The
holes are drilled upto a depth few cms above the required horizontal plane. Sub grade
drilling is not necessary since the splitting will be effected upto a further distance of few
cms from the drill hole on blasting. Sub grade drilling may affect the underlying granite
deposit.
Explosives such as gelatin, delay detonators etc may also be used occasionally at places
further away from the granite deposit for certain development works such as forming
approach roads to the working faces below ground level for forming flat surfaces to be
used as dumping yard etc.
19
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The explosives required for this mine is obtained from the authorised, licensed dealer for
which necessary permission will be obtained from the authority concerned. The blasting
will be under the direct supervision of the statutory persons of TAMIN.
Now-a-days the splitting within the sheet rock is effected by diamond wire sawing,
which largely reduces the use of explosives in granite mining. Many adverse effects of
blasting are avoided and hence Diamond wire cutting will substantially increase the
recovery. Hence it is proposed to deploy one wire saw machine in this mine shortly.
2.6 Project Description
2.6.1 Topography
The area generally manifests broadly undulating topography surrounded by the low-
lying agriculture lands with well irrigation, which is the main occupation in this area.
Social forestry has raised some plantation on the southern and northern limb of the
formation, which looks thick vegetation. The topographical features are shown in
“Surface plan”.
2.6.2 Drainage Pattern
The dyke is found to occur on the top of a small elevated and lengthy hillock. The top
and slope portions of the hillock are occupied with insitu boulders and floats of black
granite. The exposure of the granite rises for a height of about 3 to 4m from the country
rock contact. The maximum height is on the Eastern side where the slope is more and the
minimum is on the Western side where the slope is less. The working faces are operated
in the middle part of the hillock, which has moderate slope, and hence the rainwater
naturally drains to the foothills. There is no chance of water collected in the working
portions since the faces are operated on the top-level first layer. Further catch drains will
be developed on one side of the approach road. The question of engaging the oil engine
to drain the seepage water arises only when the faces are operated below the ground
level. The drainage map of the project site is given in Figure – 2.3.
2.6.3 Geology
The area is made up of Precambrian rocks comprised of Charnockites and gneisses with
basic intrusion. The lease applied area comprises of granite gneiss into which basic
20
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
intrusion of dolerite dykes are noticed. The dolerite dyke is found to occur over an
elevated hillock of 60 m height above ground level. The dolerite dyke shows a trend of
North 80° West and South 80° East with almost vertical dip. The country rock is
Hornblende Granitic Gneiss. The background colour of the dyke formation is bluish green
in nature. The dolerite dyke occurs as a continuous band at the ridge of the hillock with
an average width of 23m and the length of the dyke within the area is around 1000m.
The colour of the formation is leucocratic, medium to coarse-grained texture. Most of the
boulders are exhibiting white dots because of spread over of plagioclase feldspar specks.
Strike and dip joints are more predominantly visible.
Open cast, semi-mechanized mining with 6 mts vertical bench with a bench width of 6m
has been proposed. Under the regulation 106 (2) (a) of the Metalliferous Mines
Regulation 1961in all open cast working in hard ore body, the benches and sides should
be properly benched and sloped. The height of any bench shall not exceed 6m and the
width thereof shall not be less than the height. The benches shall be sloped at an angle of
more than 60° from the horizontal.
21
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
FIGURE - 2.3: DRAINAGE MAP OF THE PROJECT SITE
22
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
FIGURE - 2.4: MINE GEOLOGICAL PLAN
23
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.6.4 Geological Reserves and Grade
The geological reserves computed based on the geological cross sections up to the
economically workable depth of 20 m from the top surface of the granite body works out
to around 4,61,600 m3 and the recoverable reserves have been computed as around
3,64,400 m3 at the rate 3% recovery on the available mineable reserves as established
by previous mining practice of such granite commodity in other quarries of TAMIN.
The commercial granite body occurring in this area shows more or less uniform color
and texture and other physical properties, which determines the granite body as a
commercial granite deposit. Even if such variation occur locally in the course of mining,
that portions will be considered as defective area and will be removed during dressing of
the blocks and the blocks thus produced will be marketed as a single quality. Gradation
into difference quality is not necessary in this deposit due to the general uniformity
within the deposit.
2.6.4.1 Method of Estimation of Reserve
The correct geological plan demarcating the commercially viable granite body has been
prepared on 1:2000 scales. Four cross sections on suitably chosen lines across the
longitudinal axis of deposit have been drawn. The cross sectional area for proved depth
persistence of 20 m has been worked out for each cross section. The cross sectional area
multiplied by its length of influence on the longer axis gives the bulk volume (insitu
reserves) with in the cross sectional area. The sum total of the insitu reserves available
within the individual cross sectional area gives the geological reserves of the leasehold
area.
From the total geological reserves, the quantity of saleable granite stone and quantity of
granite reject and waste generations are computed by applying the recovery factor,
which have been already established through actual mining practice as 3% by volume.
As the sale of granite dimensional stone is in terms of volumes (cubic meter) only and
not in terms of tonnage as in the case of the mining of industrial minerals, the geological
reserves, mineable reserves and quantum of waste generation etc. are given in terms of
cubic meter (volume) only. The details of estimation of geological reserves with
reference to the geological plan and section in Plate No.3 have been furnished in Mining
24
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Plan. The mineable reserves with reference to the Conceptual plan and sections in Plate
No.6 have been furnished in Mining Plan is enclosed as Annexure IV.
2.6.4 Year-Wise Production for the First Five Years
Systematic development of black granite dimensional stone in this mine during the first
five years of mining plan period includes.
a) Medium to small size insitu boulders are noticed on the top of the deposit. Hence
production is possible from the top fresh boulders after the removal of
interstitial soils and crushed nature small boulders.
b) Simultaneous removal of crushed nature country rock on either sides of the dyke
rock so as to form trench, as well as to establish free face and to expose the sheet
rock for future production.
c) It is planned to open working faces on either sides of the dyke along the strike
direction so as to avoid formation of overhanging of country rock. Sufficient
barren land is available on either sides of the dyke and the waste debris will be
dumped in this area so as to avoid re-handling of the waster debris while
operating the dyke in the second level.
The year-wise quantum of work proposed and the details of estimation of production
quantity and generation of waste are furnished in Annexure IV with reference to the
year- wise development/ Production plan (plate No.5 of the Approved mining plan). The
year wise production for the first five years is tabulated in Table 2.5.
TABLE 2.5 YEAR WISE PRODUCTION FOR THE FIRST FIVE YEARS
S.No. Year ROM
(in m3)
Saleable Qty.
(in m3)
Generation of Granite
Rejects ( in m3)
1. First 20,172.000 605.160 19,566.840
2. Second 20,142.000 604.260 19,537.740
3. Third 20,064.000 601.920 19,462.208
4. Fourth 20,000.000 600.000 19,400.000
5. Fifth 20,086.000 602.580 19,483.420
Total 100,464.000 3013.92 97,450.21
25
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.6.5 Proposed Rate of Production
The Production schedule for the five years mining plan period is mainly in
consideration of reserve position, market demand , men and machinery deploy and
the cost of production. The mineable reserve of black granite deposit in this mine
is sustainable over a period of a decade. The overseas market for this black
granite material has very good potential and the domestic market has also been
well developed for the finished tiles, slabs and monuments of the material. In as
much as the reserve is sustainable for years and if the market potential is sound ,
it is proposed to achieve an annual production of 600 m3 with an average
monthly production of 50 m3 per month. Table 2.6
TABLE 2.6 PROPOSED RATE OF PRODUCTION
S.No. Year ROM (in m3)
Generation of Granite Rejects ( in m3) Total waste
( in m3) Side burden Granite rejects 1. First 20,172.000 - 19,566.840 19,566.840
2. Second 20,142.000 320.000 19,537.740 19,857.740
3. Third 20,064.000 - 19,462.208 19,462.208
4. Fourth 20,000.000 2,340.000 19,400.000 21,740.000
5. Fifth 20,086.000 2,640.000 19,483.420 22,123.420
Total 1,00,464.000 5,300.000 97,450.21 1,02,750.208
Source: Mine Plan
2.6.7 Mining Machinery
The following machineries are utilized exclusively for the development and production
works at this mine is tabulated in Table 2.7.
TABLE 2.7 MECHANIZATION 1. Hydraulic excavator 200 LC 1 No. 2. Compressor (Portable) (400 Cfm) 2 Nos. 3. Diamond wire saw machine 1 No. 4. Crane (25 T Capacity) 1 No. 5. Tipper 2 Nos. 6. Gen Set 1 No.
Source: Mine Plan
26
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The above machineries are adequate to meet out the simultaneous development and
production schedule drawn out in this mining plan.
2.6.8 STACKING OF MINERAL REJECTS AND DISPOSAL OF WASTE
2.6.8.1 Year/Stage wise Waste Generation
The mine waste in the mine include the top soil / rock fragments and rubbles generated
as mineral rejects during production works and the country rock fragments generated
during development works as approach road formation, formation or dumping yard sites
etc.
Adequate space has been identified within the lease hold area for dumping such waste
material along the southern parts of the boundary where barren lands of poor quality,
covered by soil which affects the quality in terms of rust and not fit for economic
exploitation of commercial granite variety. The 7.5 m safety distance may also be used
for waste dumping purpose.
As the waste materials generated in this mine include rock fragments of different shape and
angularity with considerable volume, the waste dump will be stable even at higher slope of
the sides of the dump. However, due care will be taken to avoid collapse of the sides of the
waste dump by adding suitable variety of soil brought from outside and planting trees over
the waste dump.
2.6.9 Mine Drainage
The dyke is found to occur on the top of a small elevated and lengthy hillock. The top
and slope portions of the hillock are occupied with insitu boulders and floats of black
granite. The exposure of the granite rises for a height of about 3 to 4m from the country
rock contact. The maximum height is on the Eastern side where the slope is more and the
minimum is on the Western side where the slope is less. The working faces are operated
in the middle part of the hillock, which has moderate slope, and hence the rainwater
naturally drains to the foothills. There is no chance of water collected in the working
portions since the faces are operated on the top-level first layer. Further catch drains will
be developed on one side of the approach road. The question of engaging the oil engine
27
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
to drain the seepage water arises only when the faces are operated below the ground
level.
2.6.10 Employment Potential
The following man power is proposed for the black granite mine to look after and
carryout the day-to-day mining activities aimed at the proposed production target and
also to comply with the statutory provisions of the Metalliferous Mines Regulations,
1961.The Employment Potential is tabulated in Table 2.8.
TABLE 2.8 EMPLOYMENT POTENTIAL
Sl.No. Item No. of Person
(A) Technical/ Mining personnel
1. Geologist/Agent (Master’s Degree in Geology) 1
2. Assistant Manager (Second class Mines Manager Competency
certificate Holder)
1
3. Mines Foreman 1
4. Mine Mate cum Blaster 1
5. Machinery operators 7
(B) Workers
1. Skilled 1
2. Semi-skilled 4
3. Un-skilled 15
(C) Chiseling workers- 2 gangs (Each gang having 3 Persons)
TOTAL 31
The above man power is adequate to meet out the production schedule and the machinery
strength envisaged in the mining plan and also to comply with the statutory provisions of the
Mines Safety Regulations.
2.6.11 Land Requirement
The total land available for the mine is about 16.95.00 ha. The land use break-up of the
project site is given in Table – 2.9.
TABLE 2.9 EMPLOYMENT POTENTIAL
28
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
S. No. Activity Area of Extent
1. Mining area 0.82.5 ha
2. Dumping Yard 2.28.5 ha
3. Infrastructure area 0.01.5 ha
4. Green-belt 0.02.5 ha
5. Barren land 13.76.5 ha
TOTAL 16.95.00 ha
2.6.12 Water Requirement
In the proposed mining project water is required only for domestic usages and dust
suppression. The water requirement of the proposed project will be supplied from the
Mylarwada Village Panchayat. The break-up of the water requirement details are given
in Table 2.10.
TABLE 2.10 WATER REQUIREMENT
S. No Category Requirement (KLD)
1. Dust suppression & Drilling 0.9
2. Domestic purposes 1.4
3. Green Belt Development 0.5
Total 2.8
2.6.13 Power Requirement
The proposed mining project does not require high tension electric power and DG set
will be used for operating compressors and other machineries. Diesel usage will be 1000
lit/month.
2.7 Sources of Pollution
Virtually, all surface mining methods for any ore/mineral produce some irreversible
impacts. These produce dramatic changes in the landscape due to large-scale excavation.
29
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The environmental pollution due to the opencast mining, in general, could be broadly
classified into the following categories:
• Air Pollution;
• Water Resources and Quality;
• Top soil
• Noise Levels and Vibration.
2.7.1 Air Pollution
Mining operations contribute towards air pollution in two ways: addition of gaseous
pollutants to the atmosphere and the dust particles. The gaseous pollutants include NOx,
SO2 and Hydrocarbons. The sources of pollutants from the mining activity include:
• Operation of Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (HEMM) which mostly run on
diesel;
• Loading /unloading operations;
• Transportation of mineral/overburden in dumpers; and
• Ripping/Dozing, Drilling and Blasting operations.
The above points can be classified as follows:
Point Source/Single Source
These are stationary sources, which emit air pollutants into the atmosphere from a
certain fixed point. In the proposed mine, the following sources or activities form the
point sources, which emit Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM).
• Drilling
Drilling is an important activity of mining process. The secondary splitting in to required
size involves long hole drilling up to the bottom of the separated block. Air pollution in
the form of SPM is envisaged from this activity.
• Loading
30
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
In the proposed project, the loading of side burden and granite rejects is proposed by
Hydraulic excavators. This activity is likely to contribute air pollution in the form of SPM
(dust) during discharge of material from bucket and gaseous pollutant like SO2, NOx and
Hydrocarbons due to combustion of fuel (diesel) in the loading machinery.
• Unloading
The generated rejects and granite at mine face will be transported by dumpers and
unloaded at the designated locations. During unloading operation of both the material,
air pollution in the form of SPM (dust) is envisaged due to discharge of material from the
dumper and gaseous pollutants like SO2, NOx and Hydrocarbons due to consumption of
fuel (diesel) by dumper while unloading the material.
Line Sources
These are normally mobile sources, which emit atmospheric pollutants in the area
through which they pass. The following are the sources of air pollution falling under this
category.
• Transportation
The generated rejects and granite from site will be transported by haul road.
Transportation also includes movement of service vehicles also in the mine lease area.
The traffic on the haul roads is likely to contribute towards increase in dust and gaseous
pollutants concentration in the area. However, this is more of a localized phenomenon
within the mining areas that have limited human exposure.
Area Sources/Multiple Sources
These constitute pollution from various sources and activities situated in the mine lease
area.
The total mine area with all its mining activities constitute the area source. These include
all the mining activities, operations of equipment/machinery (HEMM), wind erosion
31
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
from active mine pit, lignite stock yard and waste dump locations and haul road which
contribute to the atmospheric pollution from the various units/activities.
Instantaneous Sources
The instantaneous sources consist of air pollution due to sudden/instantaneous
activities like blasting in the mine area.
Blasting process involves dislodgement of big blocks of hard strata/mineral from the
mines. This operation generates maximum dust, which results in the increase of SPM
concentration. It also contributes to emissions of certain gases (Oxides of Nitrogen and
Ammonia) due to the use of explosives.
The size of the dust particles emitted into the atmosphere plays a major role in deciding
the distance to which they may be transported. Particles of larger size fall fairly rapidly
and closer to their source, because of gravitational settling. However, the aerosols
because of their small size may be held in suspension for years in the atmosphere and
may be transported on a global scale. Eventually, these smaller particles are collected in
raindrops and fall on earth. The composition of these particles largely depends on the
composition of the mineral being processed.
Measures
Adequate measures as detailed in Chapter-4 shall be adopted to reduce and control the
impacts.
2.7.2 Water Resources and Quality
The ground water table is not reached during the mining activities. This may not disturb
the natural hydro-geological condition of the area. The water quality may be affected as a
result of mining operation; run-off from waste dumps and granite storage carries
pollutants / silt along with it resulting in high TDS, SS and pH of the receiving body.
2.7.3 Top Soil
The mine waste in the mine include the top soil / rock fragments and rubbles generated
as mineral rejects during production works and the country rock fragments generated
32
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
during development works as approach road formation, formation or dumping yard sites
etc.
The dumps may also be source of air pollution due to wind erosion in case they are not
properly rehabilitated. Top soil and over burden will be generated from the proposed
mining project which will be stacked separately at the designated areas.
2.7.4 Noise Levels and Vibration
Noise Levels
Heavy Earth Moving Machineries (HEMM) is deployed in mechanized mining operations.
The noise levels of the major equipment are in the range of 88 to 90 dB (A).
The noise levels are localized within the mining areas and have human exposure.
Occupational hazard is envisaged if proper personal protective equipment is not
provided to operator.
Vibration
Ground vibration, fly rock, air blast, noise, dust and fumes are the deleterious effects of
blasting on environment. The explosive energy sets up a seismic wave in the ground,
which can cause significant damage to structures and disturbance to human occupants.
The impact will be minimized by choosing proper detonating system and optimizing
total charge and charge/delay and by regular monitoring of magnitude of ground
vibrations and air blast.
33
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
This chapter illustrates the description of the existing environmental status of the study
area with reference to the prominent environmental attributes. The core area of the
study covers 10-km radius around the project site.
3.1 Introduction
Baseline Environmental Studies have been conducted to determine the existing status of
various Environmental attributes viz., Climatic and Atmospheric conditions, Air, Water,
Noise, Soil, Hydro geological, Land use pattern, Ecological and Socio-Economical
environment, prior to setting up of the proposed project. This study would help to
undertake corrective mitigation measures for protection of the environment on account
of any change deviation of attributes due to activities of the proposed project.
An area, covering a 10 km radial distance from the project site is considered as the study
area for the purpose of the baseline studies. As part of Environmental and Social Impact
Assessment, this study was undertaken for a period of three months from December
2013 to February 2014. Primary data on Water, Air, Land, Flora, Fauna & Socio-
Economic data were collected by a team of Engineers and Scientists. Secondary data was
collected from various Departments of State/Central Government Organizations, Semi-
Government and Public Sector Organizations
3.2 Meteorology
The meteorology data recorded during the study period is very useful for proper
interpretation of the baseline information as well as for input to prediction models for
air quality dispersion. It is characterized by a hot and dry summer from April - June a
monsoon or rainy season from October - December and winter season winter January -
March.
The study area occupies warm climatic belt with moderate humidity and is devoid of
hills. The coldest month is January, lowest mean temperature being 18.5°C. It is intensely
warm during the months of May and June with mean maximum temperature of 37.9°C.
The rainfall is mostly distributed between May to December, with an average
precipitation of 1152.8 mm.
35
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
3.2.1 Meteorological data recorded at site
The meteorological parameters were recorded at site on hourly basis during the study
period and consist of parameters like rainfall, wind speed, wind direction and
temperature. The total rainfall was recorded daily once at 08:30 hrs. The seven year
rainfall data for the Thiruvallur district are presented in Table 3.1 shows the rainfall for
the last ten years (Source: IMD) and the graphical representation of the wind rose
pattern for the Month of December 2013, January & February 2014 is shown in Figure
3.1, 3.2 & 3.3.
TABLE - 3.1: SUMMARY OF THE METEOROLOGICAL DATA GENERATED AT SITE
December 2013
Date Maximum Temp (°C)
Minimum Temp (°C)
Relative Humidity
Wind Speed (km/h)
1/12/2013 28 24 0.89 4 2/12/2013 28 23 0.9 4 3/12/2013 29 22 0.8 8 4/12/2013 29 22 0.74 8 5/12/2013 29 23 0.73 10 6/12/2013 27 22 0.73 11 7/12/2013 27 22 0.81 11 8/12/2013 27 20 0.71 12 9/12/2013 30 20 0.63 6
10/12/2013 31 18 0.52 4 11/12/2013 31 21 06 8 12/12/2013 29 24 0.83 17 13/12/2013 30 23 0.83 8 14/12/2013 29 23 0.81 7 15/12/2013 29 21 0.68 7 16/12/2013 29 18 0.69 4 17/12/2013 29 21 0.71 6 18/12/2013 28 19 0.71 4 19/12/2013 29 20 0.67 5 20/12/2013 29 18 0.67 5 21/12/2013 28 18 0.71 3 22/12/2013 29 19 0.69 5
36
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
23/12/2013 30 21 0.71 6 24/12/2013 29 22 0.7 12 25/12/2013 29 21 0.69 8 26/12/2013 28 20 0.7 4 27/12/2013 30 20 0.71 4 28/12/2013 28 20 0.67 9 29/12/2013 29 19 0.65 7 30/12/2013 28 19 0.68 6 31/12/2013 29 20 0.71 8
Monthly Average
29 21 1 7
January 2014
Date Maximum Temp (°C)
Minimum Temp (°C)
Relative Humidity
Wind Speed (km/h)
1/1/2014 29 21 0.74 10 2/1/2014 29 23 0.7 10 3/1/2014 29 22 0.75 8 4/1/2014 28 21 0.76 6 5/1/2014 29 22 0.76 7 6/1/2014 29 21 0.77 7 7/1/2014 29 20 0.74 7 8/1/2014 29 21 0.73 7 9/1/2014 29 21 0.75 6
10/1/2014 30 21 0.74 7 11/1/2014 29 19 0.73 6 12/1/2014 30 20 0.75 4 13/1/2014 29 20 0.73 5 14/1/2014 29 22 0.71 5 15/1/2014 30 20 0.73 4 16/1/2014 30 21 0.73 5 17/1/2014 29 20 0.74 5 18/1/2014 29 20 0.7 5 19/1/2014 30 22 0.74 8 20/1/2014 29 22 0.69 8 21/1/2014 29 20 0.68 7 22/1/2014 29 22 0.61 12 23/1/2014 29 20 0.69 7 24/1/2014 30 20 0.71 6 25/1/2014 30 21 0.68 5
37
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
26/1/2014 30 21 0.67 8 27/1/2014 30 23 0.59 13 28/1/2014 30 21 0.63 10 29/1/2014 30 20 0.63 9 30/1/2014 29 19 0.64 7 31/1/2014 30 20 0.69 7
Monthly Average
29 21 1 7
February 2014
Date Maximum Temp (°C)
Minimum Temp (°C)
Relative Humidity
Wind Speed (km/h)
1/2/2014 30 24 0.7 11 2/22014 30 22 0.71 9
3/2/2014 30 20 0.68 5 4/2/2014 30 20 0.67 5 5/2/2014 32 18 0.69 5 6/2/2014 31 18 0.72 4 7/2/2014 32 18 0.66 4 8/2/2014 31 18 0.66 5 9/2/2014 32 17 0.63 6
10/2/2014 32 19 63 7 11/2/2014 32 19 0.63 7 12/2/2014 31 20 0.62 6 13/2/2014 30 20 0.66 8 14/2/2014 30 21 0.7 8 15/2/2014 30 21 0.73 7 16/2/2014 31 24 0.7 10 17/2/2014 27 24 0.81 6 18/2/2014 31 23 0.75 7 19/2/2014 30 23 0.71 12 20/2/2014 30 21 0.66 9 21/2/2014 30 21 0.67 7 22/2/2014 30 20 0.63 8 23/2/2014 30 19 0.65 8 24/2/2014 25 22 0.89 7
38
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
25/2/2014 31 23 0.69 10 26/2/2014 31 22 0.68 7 27/2/2014 31 20 0.67 6 28/2/2014 32 21 0.64 8
Monthly Average 30 21 3 7
FIGURE - 3.1 : WINDROSE DIAGRAM FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER 2013
39
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
FIGURE - 3.2 : WINDROSE DIAGRAM FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY 2014
FIGURE - 3.3 : WINDROSE DIAGRAM FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2014
40
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
3.2.2 Secondary Data from Indian Meteorological Dept. (IMD).
TABLE - 3.2: CLIMATOLOGICAL DATA FOR LAST TEN YEARS
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
INDIA METEOROLOGICAL DEPARTMENT
STATION: CHENNAI (NUNGAMBAKKAM)
PERIOD: JANUARY 2002 TO 2011
1. ELEMENT: MONTHLY MEAN MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE (DEG C)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 29.8 30.5 33.1 35.2 38.8 35.4 37.1 34.3 36.0 32.0 29.7 29.6
2003 29.9 31.5 33.2 35.3 39.0 39.1 34.8 34.5 35.3 33.1 30.8 29.9
2004 29.5 30.8 33.3 35.6 35.5 36.9 35.9 36.9 33.7 31.9 30.4 30.2
2005 30.6 32.1 33.6 34.0 37.3 38.3 36.2 35.8 34.9 32.0 29.4 28.6
2006 30.3 31.5 33.3 35.5 37.0 37.4 36.8 35.9 34.4 32.3 30.1 30.0
2007 30.4 31.2 32.9 34.6 39.2 35.8 35.3 34.0 34.2 32.7 30.9 29.5
2008 29.7 31.3 32.2 34.5 39.5 37.1 36.1 34.7 34.5 32.4 31.0 30.2
2009 30.3 32.3 33.4 35.2 37.3 39.1 37.8 36.0 35.6 34.7 30.6 29.3
2010 29.9 31.3 33.9 35.4 36.6 35.3 33.7 33.6 33.0 33.4 30.7 28.7
2011 29.9 30.9 32.9 33.7 37.6 37.2 35.5 34.3 34.7 33.1 30.0 29.7
2. ELEMENT: MONTHLY HIGHEST MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE (DEG C)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 33.2 32.5 36.6 37.0 43.4 39.0 39.9 38.1 38.0 35.4 33.3 30.7
2003 31.2 32.4 35.6 38.2 45.0 42.5 37.8 36.8 38.1 36.8 32.1 32.5
2004 31.1 32.4 36.2 38.1 39.3 39.3 39.3 39.7 38.1 35.9 31.6 31.3
2005 32.0 34.9 35.9 37.0 41.3 41.6 39.7 38.6 37.0 36.0 33.5 30.3
2006 34.4 33.5 37.1 42.1 41.8 39.8 40.3 37.8 37.4 37.2 31.9 30.7
2007 31.4 33.3 35.2 36.9 43.0 40.5 38.1 36.5 36.6 36.5 33.3 31.6
2008 32.4 32.6 33.6 37.1 42.1 40.9 38.3 38.3 37.0 35.4 33.9 31.4
2009 33.1 34.9 36.2 37.9 41.1 40.8 39.8 39.1 38.7 38.0 32.4 30.4
2010 31.5 34.2 35.8 37.0 40.9 39.3 36.8 36.9 35.1 36.5 33.0 33.0
2011 31.1 32.6 37.7 35.7 41.7 38.6 38.0 36.9 36.4 35.4 32.6 31.6
3. ELEMENT: MONTHLY MEAN MINIMUM TEMPERATURE (DEG C)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 21.8 22.0 24.1 26.8 28.4 26.5 27.0 26.0 25.7 24.5 22.3 20.7
2003 20.8 22.7 23.8 26.5 28.4 28.5 25.7 25.3 25.9 24.7 23.4 21.7
2004 20.8 20.9 23.7 27.2 26.7 27.1 26.5 27.4 25.2 24.4 22.9 21.1
2005 21.7 22.2 25.2 26.6 28.0 28.8 26.9 26.6 25.9 24.6 22.4 21.9
2006 21.2 21.3 24.8 27.0 27.9 27.4 27.4 26.2 25.9 24.9 23.4 22.3
41
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
2007 21.5 22.4 24.2 26.7 29.1 27.2 26.1 25.4 25.8 24.9 22.6 22.4
2008 21.7 22.9 24.0 26.4 28.2 27.5 27.1 26.4 25.9 24.6 23.3 22.1
2009 20.8 21.7 24.2 26.9 28.1 28.5 28.1 26.3 26.0 25.1 23.3 21.8
2010 21.2 21.8 24.0 26.9 26.8 25.5 24.7 26.1 25.7 25.5 23.9 22.0
2011 21.1 21.3 23.5 26.2 27.7 27.6 26.3 25.3 24.7 24.3 22.0 21.5
4. ELEMENT: MONTHLY LOWEST MINIMUM TEMPERATURE (DEG C)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 18.6 19.8 21.4 24.6 25.9 24.4 24.0 23.1 22.7 22.4 19.5 18.4
2003 19.3 20.7 21.5 24.6 25.0 23.3 23.3 22.7 22.5 22.3 20.0 18.5
2004 17.9 19.4 20.1 22.6 24.2 24.8 23.6 24.2 22.4 21.9 20.3 18.9
2005 18.5 19.7 22.5 23.4 22.2 26.0 23.2 24.0 22.6 20.0 19.5 19.0
2006 19.0 18.6 23.3 24.8 23.9 23.9 24.2 23.6 22.3 22.6 21.4 19.7
2007 19.3 19.9 22.7 24.8 27.5 23.8 22.9 22.6 22.9 20.1 18.5 19.0
2008 19.0 20.5 20.2 24.3 26.3 22.9 24.4 22.6 23.2 20.5 20.1 18.3
2009 18.4 18.6 22.5 25.2 22.8 25.4 24.5 23.5 23.2 22.5 21.4 20.4
2010 17.5 19.0 20.4 25.3 21.4 22.0 21.6 23.7 23.2 23.0 20.8 18.6
2011 18.7 17.7 20.1 23.5 23.1 22.7 23.1 20.5 21.6 22.6 18.7 19.0
5. ELEMENT: MONTHLY MEAN R.H. AT 0830 HRS IST (%)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 84 81 80 75 65 65 63 69 71 83 82 82
2003 78 80 76 73 65 62 81 81 73 81 81 81
2004 81 76 77 74 73 61 67 60 79 83 83 77
2005 79 78 75 77 70 57 68 70 72 84 86 88
2006 81 79 76 72 67 64 63 68 74 82 86 76
2007 77 74 77 76 62 71 73 79 73 79 80 85
2008 80 80 81 73 57 63 66 73 72 85 81 82
2009 81 81 80 74 73 62 66 69 70 72 88 86
2010 84 82 79 72 71 75 79 79 81 80 87 86
2011 82 81 77 75 64 60 70 79 80 84 85 88
6. ELEMENT: MONTHLY HIGHEST R.H. AT 0830 HRS IST (%)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 96 93 91 81 83 85 89 94 95 98 98 98
2003 93 93 89 79 86 90 97 95 92 98 95 98
2004 96 93 84 81 92 74 89 95 95 98 98 87
2005 88 87 81 94 80 84 95 94 97 98 98 98
2006 95 88 89 80 84 96 92 85 95 98 97 90
2007 88 93 84 88 76 96 98 93 92 96 97 96
42
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
2008 96 95 96 82 70 89 79 93 92 96 97 97
2009 95 88 90 83 87 77 86 87 98 96 100 98
2010 93 92 87 79 100 98 98 95 98 98 98 97
2011 90 96 92 95 79 80 93 100 100 100 98 95
7. ELEMENT: MONTHLY LOWEST R.H. AT 0830 HRS IST (%)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 70 64 72 71 45 54 50 55 55 69 62 74
2003 61 70 63 64 44 46 63 69 64 66 47 69
2004 75 52 67 63 50 49 55 49 53 64 67 60
2005 62 64 69 65 54 46 52 58 53 66 69 68
2006 55 80 66 59 47 50 52 56 58 65 70 89
2007 58 54 62 64 48 57 55 63 57 59 56 69
2008 59 68 62 61 46 51 56 53 55 56 65 61
2009 64 69 64 65 58 52 52 53 56 56 74 68
2010 71 72 68 63 52 51 60 68 64 59 76 68
2011 67 73 61 65 47 49 56 63 62 72 63 57
8. ELEMENT: MONTHLY MEAN R.H. AT 1730 HRS IST (%)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 71 66 66 69 49 62 61 64 66 77 75 69
2003 66 69 65 68 66 67 70 67 65 73 73 70
2004 68 59 65 72 68 62 61 59 74 77 75 65
2005 65 62 68 73 69 55 67 67 68 79 75 80
2006 65 59 67 69 70 63 59 66 68 77 80 67
2007 64 64 67 74 66 68 68 72 71 74 73 75
2008 68 66 71 68 61 61 63 68 65 75 75 65
2009 63 60 64 68 72 62 60 66 65 65 83 76
2010 68 65 68 69 69 72 74 71 71 71 79 76
2011 60 61 59 67 65 58 57 69 74 80 76 67 9. ELEMENT: MONTHLY HIGHEST R.H. AT 1730 HRS IST (%)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 88 86 76 79 68 79 95 87 78 98 98 92
2003 75 79 77 83 87 92 84 83 81 96 96 93
2004 86 77 86 81 88 94 84 84 92 98 98 75
2005 77 79 76 96 84 81 89 97 95 98 98 98
2006 81 65 90 90 85 92 90 91 95 96 96 89
2007 74 78 76 87 80 95 93 93 92 98 97 96
2008 96 78 98 82 73 75 86 89 90 96 98 90
2009 95 74 77 80 88 75 95 86 90 82 98 95
43
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
2010 88 76 83 79 93 100 97 100 93 93 97 96
2011 70 84 79 78 76 93 88 84 88 98 98 96
10. ELEMENT: MONTHLY LOWEST R.H. AT 1730 HRS IST (%)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 53 51 56 61 31 42 35 52 36 61 51 61
2003 56 62 54 61 33 40 53 51 51 54 54 50
2004 56 44 46 63 31 37 41 31 50 50 50 45
2005 52 36 51 59 38 31 41 43 42 62 57 60
2006 40 42 40 55 54 45 34 48 48 57 65 52
2007 46 52 55 67 51 51 40 50 49 50 48 52
2008 56 53 32 58 43 40 40 42 44 45 46 36
2009 51 44 46 52 38 32 42 52 40 42 58 61
2010 42 56 50 64 53 49 53 50 60 45 67 52
2011 45 42 25 62 50 30 34 45 48 58 59 30
11. ELEMENT: MONTHLY TOTAL RAINFALL (MM)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 39.1 5.6 0.0 0.0 17.5 36.7 80.0 99.9 137.9 375.1 580.3 29.9
2003 0.1 0.0 6.2 TR 0.5 22.9 101.1 140.5 155.3 149.1 85.0 77.4
2004 51.5 0.0 0.2 2.4 210.6 28.8 50.6 47.1 246.5 285.3 280.2 6.8
2005 2.0 5.2 0.0 83.2 30.9 30.6 151.2 53.7 101.3 1077.8 608.4 421.5
2006 3.5 0.0 9.5 7.1 17.2 36.4 72.1 140.8 143.9 633.9 238.0 20.8
2007 0.0 6.6 0.0 0.2 0.1 94.2 243.9 170.9 167.7 274.9 95.0 256.3
2008 50.2 10.0 137.9 26.9 0.3 126.4 28.6 147.2 120.9 372.9 555.9 17.7
2009 21.1 0.0 2.0 0.0 14.7 22.6 36.8 87.0 86.8 71.8 562.6 275.2
2010 5.2 0.4 0.0 0.0 204.0 136.7 155.5 235.8 120.1 195.7 274.0 287.1
2011 10.8 88.9 0.0 18.5 12.6 130.2 67.4 368.9 286.2 260.0 457.2 134.8
12. ELEMENT: MONTHLY HEAVIEST RAINFALL IN 24 HRS. (MM)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 19.8 5.1 0.0 0.0 11.0 23.4 32.0 47.6 57.0 68.8 160.1 22.8
2003 0.1 0.0 6.2 TR 0.5 21.1 21.1 47.5 105.1 51.2 17.4 40.6
2004 27.9 0.0 0.0 2.4 69.3 13.3 17.6 31.2 74.2 67.3 84.1 4.8
2005 2.0 4.8 0.0 60.1 30.6 14.8 58.8 21.2 39.0 272.5 142.4 234.0
2006 3.0 0.0 9.0 7.1 17.2 16.4 42.2 44.3 61.2 188.8 40.0 15.7
2007 0.0 3.6 0.0 0.1 0.1 25.5 75.2 35.9 67.9 139.9 47.2 79.5
2008 29.4 6.3 69.3 26.9 0.3 67.0 7.5 100.3 51.2 86.2 137.7 7.3
2009 19.3 0.0 1.6 0.0 13.6 11.8 13.6 17.5 35.0 42.1 150.0 77.6
44
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
2010 2.4 0.4 0.0 0.0 109.7 53.4 24.5 76.9 43.0 63.3 52.4 99.4
2011 10.3 81.2 0.0 10.3 12.6 75.0 19.0 156.2 62.0 78.2 66.9 59.3
13. ELEMENT: NUMBER OF RAINY DAYS [ 2.5 MM & ABOVE ]
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 2 1 0 0 2 3 6 5 5 13 9 2
2003 0 0 1 0 0 1 9 6 4 8 8 4
2004 2 0 0 0 9 4 5 3 10 14 7 1
2005 0 1 0 2 1 3 6 4 7 16 16 10
2006 1 0 1 1 1 4 4 13 8 13 18 2
2007 0 1 0 0 0 9 11 13 5 11 5 7
2008 2 1 7 1 0 6 4 6 4 11 12 3
2009 1 0 0 0 1 2 5 8 7 3 11 9
2010 0 0 0 0 4 9 12 10 9 8 15 9
2011 1 2 0 2 1 6 7 9 8 10 14 3
14. ELEMENT: MONTHLY MEAN WINDSPEED (KMPH)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2002 6 7 6 7 8 7 8 7 7 6 7 6
2003 7 6 5 6 7 7 6 7 6 5 7 8
2004 7 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 5 6 7 8
2005 6 6 6 6 7 9 8 7 7 6 7 8
2006 7 5 5 6 8 7 9 7 6 5 6 8
2007 7 5 5 6 7 7 7 7 6 6 6 7
2008 6 5 4 5 7 7 7 7 6 5 7 6
2009 6 4 5 6 7 7 9 6 5 5 5 7
2010 6 4 5 6 7 6 5 5 4 4 4 5
2011 7 12 5 10 12 14 7 6 5 3 6 7
On site monitoring was undertaken for various meteorological parameters in order to
generate the site - specific data. The central monitoring station (CMS), equipped with
continuous monitoring equipment to record wind speed, wind direction and
temperature was set up at the top of a residential building near mines at a height of ~
10.0 m above the ground level. The methodology adopted for monitoring surface
observations was as per the Standard norms laid down by the Bureau of Indian
Standards (IS: 8829) and IMD.
45
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
TABLE - 3.2: RAINFALL DATA OF THIRUVALLUR DISTRICT
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
2009 11.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 15.0 39.0 61.4 125.4 105.9 54.3 372.5 163.1
2010 2.3 0.0 0.0 0.6 137.5 101.5 280.3 279.6 155.8 133.1 207.2 177.9
2011 1.3 44.6 0.0 46.3 26.3 91.7 114.4 248.7 158.9 169.1 387.3 112.7
2012 8.3 0.0 0.2 8.7 15.5 37.4 127.1 127.4 155.0 272.5 129.6 151.0
2013 0.1 55.1 21.1 22.5 15.8 92.2 128.8 151.7 240.0 189.1 121.1 29.7
2014 1.02 0.0 0.0 0.0 4.31 103.64 32.02 88.64 29.72 103.12 29.22 123.45
3.3 Air Quality
The prime objective of the baseline air monitoring is to evaluate the existing air quality
of the area. This will also be useful for assessing the conformity to standards of the
ambient air quality during the Construction and Operation of the proposed project. This
section describes the selection of sampling locations, methodology adopted for sampling,
analytical techniques and frequency of sampling.
3.3.1 Selection of Sampling Locations
The baseline status of the ambient air quality has been assessed through a scientifically
designed ambient air quality monitoring network. The design of monitoring network in
the air quality surveillance programme has been based on the following considerations:
Meteorological conditions on synoptic basis
Topography of the study area
Representativeness of the region for establishing baseline status
Representativeness with respect to likely impact areas.
Ambient Air Quality Monitoring (AAQM) stations were set up at six locations with due
consideration to the above mentioned points. The Ambient Air Quality monitoring
locations are given in the Table 3.3 and Figure 3.3.
46
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
TABLE - 3.3: DETAILS OF AMBIENT AIR QUALITY MONITORING LOCATIONS
Air Sampling Location
Code
Name of the Location Geographical
Location
Distance w.r.t.
Project Site (km)
Direction w.r.t.
Project Site
Elevation in feet
AAQ1 Project Site (Mylarwada)
N-13º04’02.31” E-79º21’29.63” - - 728
AAQ2 Katharikuppam N-13º01’33.92” E-79º18’56.46” 6.46 SW 745
AAQ3 Vasur N-13º05’39.75” E-79º17’00.72” 8.63 WNW 768
AAQ4 Pendadi N-13º03’31.19” E-79º22’16.49” 1.71 SE 555
AAQ5 Peddaramapuram N-13º06’21.59” E-79º22’13.75” 4.54 NNW 565
AAQ6 Meesarakandapuram N-13º05’09.80” E-79º23’18.19” 3.87 ENE 559
3.3.2 Frequency and Parameters for Sampling
Ambient air quality monitoring was carried out at a frequency of two days per week at
each location for three months. The baseline data of air environment was generated for
the following parameters:
• Particulate Matter size less than 10 µm (PM10);
• Particulate Matter size less than 2.5 µm (PM2.5);
• Sulphur dioxide (SO2);
• Nitrogen dioxide (NO2);
• Mercury (Hg);
• Lead (pb);
• Chromium (Cr); and
• Arsenic (As);
3.3.3 Instruments used for Sampling & Analysis
Respirable Dust Samplers APM 460 BL of Envirotech was used for monitoring Particulate
matter (PM10) and Fine Particulate Samplers APM 550 of Envirotech was used for
monitoring PM 2.5. For gaseous pollutants like SO2 and NO2 APM 411 has been used along
with APM-460.
47
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
FIGURE - 3.4: AIR QUALITY SAMPLING LOCATIONS
3.3.4 Sampling and Analytical Techniques
The air inlet has a circular symmetry so that air entry is unaffected by wind direction and
is designed to keep out rain, insects and very large particles. The inlet section
immediately leads to an impactor stage designed to trap particles with an aerodynamic
diameter larger than 10 microns. Thus the air stream in the down tube consists of only
medium and fine particulates. The streamlined air flow of the down tube is accelerated
through the nozzle of the well shaped impactor designed to trap medium size
48
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
particulates with an aerodynamic diameter between 2.5 and 10 microns. To avoid
sampling errors due to the
Tendency of small particles to bounce off the impaction surface a 37mm diameter GF/A
paper immersed in silicone oil is used as an impaction surface. The air stream leaving the
WINS impactor consists of microns. These fine particles are collected on a special Teflon
membrane filter of 47 mm diameter. Modified West and Gaeke method (IS – 5182 part –
II, 1969) has been adopted for estimation of SO2 and Arsenite Modified Jacob &
Hochheiser has been adopted for estimation of NOX.
The Particulate Matters (Size less than 10µm) are used to estimate the Mercury, lead,
Chromium and Arsenic levels. Filter paper is digested and analyzed for heavy metal as per
the method “As per IS 5182 (Part 22): 2004 followed by Atomic Absorption Spectrometer
(AAS). The techniques used for the monitoring of Ambient Air quality is given in Table
3.4.
TABLE - 3.4: TECHNIQUES USED FOR AMBIENT AIR QUALITY MONITORING
S. No. Parameter Technique Minimum Detectable
Limit (µg / m3) 1. Particulate Matter
(PM10) Respirable Dust Sampler
(Gravimetric method) 1.0
2. Particulate Matter (PM2.5)
Fine Particulate Sampler (Gravimetric method)
1.0
3. Sulphur Dioxide West and Gaeke 5.0 4. Nitrogen Oxides Jacob & Hochheiser 5.0 5. Mercury IS 5182 (Part 22) : 2004 0.2 6. Lead IS 5182 (Part 22) : 2004 0.1 7. Chromium IS 5182 (Part 22) : 2004 0.2 8. Arsenic IS 5182 (Part 22) : 2004 0.001
3.3.5 Presentation of Results
The survey results for the three months study period are presented in detail in Annexure-
V. The summary of these results for each location is presented in Table-3.6. These are
compared with the standards prescribed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
49
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
TABLE - 3.5: AMBIENT AIR QUALITY RESULTS
Code Location PM 10 (µg/m3) PM 2.5 (µg/m3) SO2 (µg/m3) NOx (µg/m3)
Max Min Avg 98% Max Min Avg 98% Max Min Avg 98% Max Min Avg 98%
AAQ1 Project Site (Mylarwada)
45 56 50.8 55.7 19 27 23.1 26.8 5.1 5.4 5.2 5.3 8.1 9.6 8.8 9.4
AAQ2 Katharikuppam 43 60 51.6 59.5 21 28 24.5 27.7 5.0 5.6 5.3 5.5 9.3 10.8 10.1 10.7 AAQ3 Vasur 47 63 54.8 62.6 17 26 21.7 25.8 5.0 5.5 5.3 5.4 9.7 11.3 10.5 11.1 AAQ4 Pendadi 40 53 46.3 52.7 16 24 20.1 23.7 5.0 5.4 5.2 5.3 8.1 9.4 8.7 9.3 AAQ5 Peddaramapuram 44 58 51.3 57.6 18 27 22.2 26.4 5.1 5.6 5.3 5.5 9.4 11.6 10.5 11.4 AAQ6 Meesarakandapuram 48 65 56.9 64.8 20 29 24.6 28.4 5.3 6.1 5.7 6.0 10.3 13.4 11.8 13.2 CPCB STANDARDS
Industrial /Residential / Rural and Other Area
100
60 80 80
50
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
3.3.6 Observations of results
PM10: The maximum and minimum concentrations for PM10 were recorded as
65 µg/m3 and 40 µg/m3 respectively. The maximum concentration was recorded at the
Meesarakandapuram and the minimum concentration was recorded at Pendadi. The
average concentrations were ranged between 46.3 and 56.9 µg/m3.
PM2.5: The maximum and minimum concentrations for PM2.5 were recorded as 29 µg/m3
and 29 µg/m3 respectively. The maximum concentration was recorded at the
Meesarakandapuram and the minimum concentration was recorded at Pendadi. The
average concentrations were ranged between 20.1 and 24.6 µg/m3.
SO2: The maximum and minimum SO2 concentrations were recorded as 6.5 µg/m3 and 5.0
µg/m3. The maximum concentration was recorded at Meesarakandapuram and the
minimum concentration was recorded at Vasur. The average values were observed to be in
the range of 5.2 and 5.7 µg/m3.
NO2: The maximum and minimum NO2 concentrations were recorded as 13.4 µg/m3 and
8.1 µg/m3. The maximum concentration was recorded at Meesarakandapuram and the
minimum concentration was recorded at mines site. The average values were observed to
be in the range of 8.7 and 11.8 µg/m3.
The concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, SO2, NO2, and pb are observed to be well within the
standards prescribed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for Industrial, Rural,
Residential and Other area. Whereas, the concentration heavy metals like Hg, cd, Cr and As
was observed is below detection limits.
3.4 Noise Environment
Noise survey has been conducted in the study area to assess the background noise levels
in different zones viz., Residential, Industrial, Commercial and Silence zones. The main
objective of noise monitoring in the study area is to establish the baseline noise levels
and assess the impact of the total noise expected to be generated in the surrounding
areas by implementing the proposed project.
51
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
3.4.1 Methodology
a) Identification of Sampling Locations
A preliminary reconnaissance survey was undertaken to identify the major noise
generating sources in the area. The noise monitoring has been conducted at 6 locations
in the study area. The physical location of noise monitoring stations is given in Table-
3.7. The map showing Noise Quality Monitoring Locations is enclosed as Figure – 3.3.
TABLE - 3.6: DETAILS OF NOISE MONITORING LOCATIONS
Air sampling location
code
Location Geographical
location
Distance w.r.t.
Project site
(Km)
Direction w.r.t
Project site
Leq day
dB(A)
Leq Night dB(A)
Leq dB(A)
N1 Project Site (Mylarwada)
N-13º04’02.31” E-79º21’29.63”
Core zone 48.7 41.6 47.3
N2 Pendadi N-13º03’31.19” E-79º22’16.49” 1.71 SE 50.3 41.8 48.8
N3 Sengalnatham N-13º03’18.56” E-79º20’02.15” 3.0 WSW 48.4 40.6 46.9
N4 Vediyan kadu N-13º05’41.15” E-79º20’26.20” 3.61 NNW 47.3 40.2 45.9
N5 Peddaramapuram N-13º06’21.59” E-79º22’13.75” 4.54 NNW 49.6 41.3 48.1
N6 Meesarakandapuram N-13º05’09.80” E-79º23’18.19” 3.87 ENE 51.4 42.1 49.8
52
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
FIGURE – 3.5: NOISE SAMPLING LOCATIONS
b) Instrument Used for Monitoring
Noise levels were measured using a sound level meter. The sound level meter measures
the Sound Pressure Level (SPL), the Maximum Sound Pressure Level (max) and the
equivalent continuous noise level (Leq) by switching on the corresponding functional
modes.
53
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
c) Method of Monitoring
Sound Pressure Level (SPL) measurements were taken at the specified locations, with an
interval of 1 minute over a period of one hour for 24 hours. The noise levels during day
time have been monitored between 6 am to 10 pm and night noise levels during 10 pm
to 6 am at all the locations covered in the study area. Noise levels were recorded every
one minute in the following manner. To obtain noise levels at 8 AM, noise readings, with
setting at ‘A’ response – slow mode, were recorded continuously for 60 minutes. All the
readings were obtained for 24 hours.
d) Parameters Measured During Monitoring
For noise levels measured over a given period of time interval, it is possible to derive
important features of noise using statistical methods.
• Lday Average noise levels between 6.00 hours to 22.00 hours.
• Lnight Average noise levels between 22.00 hours to 6.00 hours.
e) Presentation of Results
The summary of computed ambient noise level parameters like Lday and Lnight for all the
sampling locations are presented in Table – 3.7 and compared to the standards specified
by CPCB as given below in Table - 3.8.
TABLE - 3.7: AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS RECORDED IN THIS STUDY AREA [dB(A)]
Air sampling location code
Location Leq day dB(A)
Leq Night dB(A)
Leq dB(A)
N1 Project Site (Mylarwada) 48.7 41.6 47.3 N2 Pendadi 50.3 41.8 48.8 N3 Sengalnatham 48.4 40.6 46.9 N4 Vediyan kadu 47.3 40.2 45.9 N5 Peddaramapuram 49.6 41.3 48.1 N6 Meesarakandapuram 51.4 42.1 49.8
TABLE - 3.9: AMBIENT NOISE STANDARDS
LAND USE LDAY LNIGHT Industrial Area 75 70
Commercial Area 65 55 Residential Area 55 45
Silence Zone 50 40
54
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
f) Observations
Day time Noise Levels
Noise levels during day time were found to be in the range 47.3 to 51.4 dB (A). The
maximum noise level was observed to be 51.4 dB (A) at Meesarakandapuram and a
minimum of 47.3 dB (A) was observed at Vediyan kadu.
Night time Noise Levels
Noise levels observed to fall in the range 40.2 to 42.1 dB (A) during the night time. The
maximum of 42.1 dB (A) was observed at Meesarakandapuram and a minimum of 40.2
dB (A) was observed at Vediyan kadu.
3.5 WATER QUALITY
Selected water quality parameters of surface and ground water resources within 10-km
radius of the study area have been studied for assessing the water environment. Water
samples were examined for physico-chemical, heavy metals and bacteriological
parameters in order to assess the effect of industrial and other activities on ground water.
The samples were analyzed as per the procedures specified in 'Standard Methods for the
Examination of Water and Wastewater' published by American Public Health Association
(APHA).
Samples for chemical analysis were collected in polyethylene carboys. Samples collected
for metal content were acidified with 1 ml HNO3. Samples for bacteriological analysis were
collected in sterilized glass bottles. Selected physico-chemical and bacteriological
parameters have been analyzed for projecting the existing water quality status in the study
area.
3.5.1 Water Sampling Locations
Six (6) ground water samples were collected during the study period. These samples were
taken as grab samples and were analyzed for various parameters to compare with the
standards for drinking water as per IS: 10500 for ground water sources. The water
sampling locations are identified in Table-3.10 and shown in Figure-3.6.
55
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
TABLE - 3.10: WATER SAMPLING LOCATIONS
Code Location Distance from mining
site (km) Direction w.r.t.
mining site Ground Water
GW 1 Project Site (Mylarwada) Core zone (0.5) SSE GW 2 Pendadi 1.71 SE GW 3 Sengalnatham 3.0 WSW GW 4 Venugopalapuram 6.95 NNW GW 5 Peddaramapuram 4.54 NNW GW 6 Meesarakandapuram 3.87 ENE
3.5.2 Presentation of Results
The water sampling results for ground water samples are given in Table 3.11. The
ground water analysis results are compared with the standards.
56
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
FIGURE - 3.6: WATER SAMPLING LOCATIONS
57
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
TABLE - 3.11: GROUND WATER SAMPLE RESULTS
S. No. Parameters Unit Limit as per
IS 10500 : 1991 GW1 GW2 GW3 GW4 GW5 GW6
1. Colour Hazen 5 Nil 1 Nil Nil 2 Nil
2. Odour - Unobjectionable
No Odour Observed
No Odour Observed
No Odour Observed
No Odour Observed
No Odour Observed
No Odour Observed
3. pH at 25°C - 6.5-8.5 7.61 7.96 8.07 8.22 8.31 8.31
4. Electrical Conductivity μS/cm Not Specified 1045 779 1664 953 1084 1750
5. Turbidity NTU 1
BDL (<0.5)
1.2 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.5
6. Total Dissolved Solids mg/l 500 596 441 949 536 624 962 7. Total Hardness as CaCO3 mg/l 200 396 276 590 208 280 370 8. Total Alkalinity as CaCO3 mg/l 200 285 259 248 321 313 210 9. Chloride as Cl mg/l 250 97 60 258 79 109 226
10. Sulphate as SO4 mg/l 200 63 50 92 43 57 188 11. Fluoride as F mg/l 1.0 0.61 0.49 0.71 0.62 0.77 0.96 12. Nitrate as NO3 mg/l 45 39 18 94 14 33 52 13.
Ammonia as N mg/l 0.5 0.10 0.05 0.43 0.10 0.32 BDL
(<0.05) 14. Phosphate as PO4 mg/l Not Specified 0.52 0.08 0.23 0.57 0.20 0.21 15. Sodium as Na mg/l Not Specified 73 63 98 114 106 163 16. Potassium as K mg/l Not Specified 2.4 1.0 2.8 12 5.8 23 17. Calcium as Ca mg/l 75 107 64 156 55 74 100 18. Magnesium as Mg mg/l 30 31 28 48.6 17.5 23 29.2
19.
Iron as Fe mg/l 0.3 BDL
(<0.05) 0.14
BDL (<0.05)
0.06 0.16 0.06
20. Chemical Oxygen Demand
mg/l Not Specified 6.0 8.4 7.3 5.0 7.7 4.2
58
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Observations
The results indicate that the pH ranges between 7.6 and 8.31 and TDS ranges from 962
to 441 mg/l. The total hardness ranges from 208 - 590 mg/l.
3.6 SOIL ENVIRONMENT
It is essential to determine the type & quality of soil in the study area and identify the
current impacts of urbanization on soil quality and also predict probable impacts due to
the mines. Accordingly, a study of assessment of the baseline soil quality was carried out.
3.6.1 Data Generation
For studying soil quality of the region, sampling locations were selected to assess the
existing soil conditions in and around the project area based on various land use
conditions. The physical and chemical concentrations were determined. The samples
were collected from different specified depths viz., 30 cm, 60 cm and 100 cm.
The present study of the soil quality establishes the baseline characteristics and this will
help in future in identifying the incremental concentrations if any, due to the operation
of the proposed project. The sampling locations have been identified with the following
objectives.
• To determine the baseline soil characteristics of the study area.
• To determine the impact of proposed project on soil characteristics and
• To determine the impact on soils more importantly loss of fertility from agricultural
productivity point of view.
Various locations within 10-km radius of the mine site were selected for soil sampling. At
each location, soil samples were collected from three different depths viz., 30cm, 60cm,
and 100cm below the surface. The samples were analyzed for physical and chemical
characteristics. The samples have been analyzed as per the established scientific
methods for physio-chemical parameters.
3.6.2 Soil Sampling Locations
The details of the sampling locations selected for soil sampling are given in Table 3.12
and shown in Figure 3.7.
59
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
FIGURE - 3.7: SOIL SAMPLING LOCATIONS
60
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
TABLE – 3.12: DETAILS OF SOIL SAMPLING LOCATIONS
Location Code
Location Geographical location
Direction with the respect to
project site
Distance with respect to project
site in km
S1 Project Site (Mylarwada)
N-13º04’02.31” E-79º21’29.63” - -
S2 Pendadi N-13º03’31.19” E-79º22’16.49” SE 1.71
S3 Sengalnatham N-13º03’18.56” E-79º20’02.15” WSW 3.0
S4 Vediyan kadu N-13º05’41.15” E-79º20’26.20” NNW 3.61
S5 Peddaramapuram N-13º06’21.59” E-79º22’13.75” NNW 4.54
S6 Meesarakandapuram N-13º05’09.80” E-79º23’18.19” ENE 3.87
3.6.3 Baseline Soil Status
The soil quality at all the locations during the study period is tabulated in Table-3.13.
The results are compared with standard classification given in Table-3.14.
TABLE – 3.13a: SOIL SAMPLE RESULT
S.No Parameters S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6
1. pH 7.58 7.11 7.85 8.11 7.08 7.22
2. Electrical conductivity, mS/cm 0.094 0.141 0.085 0.151 0.068 0.102
3. Available Nitrogen, mg/kg 36.4 41.5 20.5 16.8 20.3 36.4
4. Available Phosphorous, mg/kg 52.6 77.8 62.4 92.5 32.9 56.8
5. Available Potassium, mg/kg 184 214 167 292 178 266
6. Exchangeable Calcium as Ca,
m.eq / 100g 4.45 3.86 2.85 3.24 4.48 3.62
7. Exchangeable Magnesium as
Mg, m.eq/100g 2.84 2.64 2.34 2.18 3.27 2.88
8. Exchangeable Sodium as Na,
m.eq / 100g 0.88 1.16 1.02 0.81 0.95 0.72
9. Organic matter (%) 0.36 0.24 0.35 0.48 0.33 0.42
10. Texture Classification Loam Loam Loam Sandy Loam
Sandy
Loam Loam
61
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
BDL-Below Detection Limit
TABLE - 3.13.b: STANDARD SOIL CLASSIFICATION
Chemical
Parameters
Ranking
Very Low Low Moderate High Very High
pH <4, very
Strongly
Acidic
4-5,
Strongly
Acidic
5-8, Ideal for
Plant
Growth
8-9 Strongly
Basic
>9 Very
Strongly
Basic
Electrical
conductivity
(μS/cm)
<2000,
Non saline
2000-4000
Saline
4000-8000
Moderately
Saline
8000-16000
Highly
Saline
>16000
Extremely
Saline
Total
Nitrogen (%)
<0.05
Very Low
0.05-0.15
Low
0.15-0.25
Moderate
0.25-0.5
High
>0.5
Very High
Total
Phosphorous
(mg/kg)
<5
Very Low
5-10
Low
10-30
Moderate
30-60 High >60 Very
High
Sodium
(mg/kg)
- <200 Non
Sodic
200-500
Moderate
>500 Sodic
Potassium
(mg/kg)
- <150 Low 150-250
Moderate
250-800
High
>800 Very
High
Calcium
(mg/kg)
- <1000
Low
1000-2000
Moderate
>2000 High -
Magnesium
(mg/kg)
<40 Very
Low
40-100
Low
100-300
Moderate
>300 High -
% Organic
Matter
0.5-1.0
Very Low
1.0-2.0
Low
2.0-3.0
Moderate
3.0-5.0 High >5
Very High
11. Sand (%) 46.4 48.4 51.3 56.2 49.2 37.6
12. Clay (%) 13.4 14.4 11.8 8.8 4.8 17.3
13. Silt (%) 40.2 37.2 36.9 35 46 45.1
62
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
3.6.4 Observations:
It has been observed that the pH of the Soil ranging from 7.08 to 8.11 indicating that the
soils is slightly alkaline in nature. The soil is pre-dominantly of loam type. The
concentration of nitrogen is in the range of 16.8 to 41.5 mg/kg and the Potassium ranges
between 167 to 292 mg/kg, which indicate that the soil is rich in nutrients and showing
high fertility.
3.7 Biological Environment
Study of biological environment is one of the important aspects in Environmental Impact
Assessments. Biotic component comprises of both plant and animal communities which
interact within the community and between themselves but also with abiotic i.e. physical
and chemical components of the environment. Generally a biological community is being
dependent on the environmental conditions and resources of its location it may change if
there are many major changes in the environment.
The number of variables like temperature, humidity, atmospheric conditions, soil, and
topography, etc. is responsible for maintaining the homeostasis of the environment and a
change in any one or more of these variables may tend to destabilize the ecosystem. In
such cases the change may be mostly irreversible. Therefore the need to assess the
changes of the plant and animal resources is primary requisite as these living things
determine the environmental healthiness of any given ecosystem or environment.
3.7.1 Assessment of Ecological Environment
Assessment of the existing vegetation types in the core as well as buffer zone has been
done using standard procedures. The terrain of the impact zone is chiefly plain and in
some places gentle undulations are observed.
The Biodiversity studies were already carried out in the entire study area of 10 km
radius. The study of flora is conducted as per the guidelines of the Ministry of
Environment and Forests, Government of India (Anonymous 1994), with respect to the
scope and objectives. The study involved in collection of primary data by conducting
survey in the field, examination of floral and faunal records in previously published
reports and records, and analysis of the information in view of the possible alteration in
63
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
environment of the proposed project site. For the survey of fauna both direct and
indirect observation methods were used.
The flora of proposed region has an appreciable diversity, which may be attributed to the
diversity in soil type and the physiography of the region. Some flora and fauna observed
in the study area are furnished in Table – 3.14 respectively.
3.7.2 Flora
There is no verdant vegetation within the Thiruvallur area. The predominant species are
small trees and bushes. The growth of natural flora is very limited. It is observed that
prosopis Juliflora is a predominant species present on uncultivable waste land. Due to
absence of any perennial surface water bodies, there is abundance of lotus and water lily
in seasonal surface water bodies. Azadirachta indica and Borassus flabelliform have
better adaptability among naturally growing species. The villages in study area are
covered with cashew tree & coconut plantation. Plantation of fruit trees & decorative
plants like Guava, Papaya, Banana, China rose, Coconut etc. are seen. Paddy is the main
crop but pulses, Sugarcane & Groundnut are also grown is this area.
The buffer zone of the proposed site consists of mines lands, waste lands, etc. The semi
arid conditions with high temperature and poor rainfall influence the nature of flora. The
buffer zone is within a radius of 5 km consisting of naturally occurring species as well as
agricultural crops. The naturally occurring wild species grow in groups.
TABLE 3.1 LIST OF FLORAL SPECIES PRESENT IN THE STUDY AREA
S.No. Scientific Name Common Name Tamil Name
I. Herbs
1. Arachis hypogaea Groundnut Verkadalai
2. Coriandrum sativum Coriander Kothamalli
3. Crotalaria sp. Rattle Box Sangupuspam
4. Helianthus sp. Sunflower Suriyakandhi
5. Moringa oleifera Drumstick Tree Murungai
6. Perotis indica Comet Grass Narivalapullu
7. Tephrosia villosa Runchhali Kolingi
64
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
II. Shrubs
8. Cactus grandiflorus Cactus Kalli
9. Calotropis gigantean Crown Flower Erukku
10. Citrus aurantifolia Lemon Elumichai
11. Ricinus communis Castor Aamanakku
12. Datura sp. Moon Flower / Devil’s
Apple
Umathai
III. Trees
13. Aegle marmelos Holy fruit tree Vilvam
14. Albizia lebbeck Siris tree Vagai
15. Azadirachta indica Neem Vembu
16. Casuarina equisetifolia Shingle oak Savukku
17. Cocos nucifera Coconut Thennai
Maram
18. Ficus benghalensis Banyan Alamaram
19. Mangifera indica Mango Maamaram
20. Polyanthia glabra Asoka Ashokamaram
21. Pongamia glabra Indian Beech Pungam
22. Prosopis spicigera Dasara Tree Karuvelam
23. Psidium guajava Guva Goiyamaram
24. Tamarindus indica Tamarind Puliyamaram
25. Thespesia populnea Indian Tulip Tree Poovarasu
26. Borassus flabellifer Palm Tree Panamaram
IV. List of Cultivated Crops
26. Arachis hypogaea Groundnut Verkadalai
27. Cocos nucifera Coconut Thennai
Maram
28. Gossypium hirsutum Cotton Paruthi
29. Canna indica Banana Vazhaimaram
30. Piper betle Betel Leaf Pepper Vetrillai
31. Anacardium occedentale Cashew Munthiri
32. Ttectona grandis Teak Thaeikku
65
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Palm Tree, Sugarcane and Rice crop Banyan Tree
Coconut Tree Teak
3.7.2.1 Forest vegetation of the Buffer Zone
The forest vegetation ranges from highly degraded open scrub to relatively thick semi
evergreen forests. The open dry scrub forests of the area have a maximum canopy cover
of about 11 to 12%. Anogeissus latifolia, Hardwickia binata, Chloroxylon
swietenia,Bauhinia racemosa, Carissa spinarum, Ziziphus numularia, Catunaregum
spinosa, Dichrostachys cinerea, Celastrus paniculata, Randia dumetorum, Diospyros
melanoxylon, Cassia auriculata, Dodonaea 43 iscose, Anisomeles ovata, Anisomeles
malabarica, Euphorbia caducifolia, Euphorbia tirucaalli, Jatropha gossyphifolia, Gardenia
gummifera, were the common perennials found in these forests. Among the perennial
grasses, Cymbopobon coloratus, Cymbopobon caesius, Heteropogon contortus, Aristida
setacea, Aristida funiculta, Chrysopogon fulvus were rarely represented by a few
specimens. There were also a few individuals of Azadirachta indica, Albizia lebbeck,
Samania saman, Dalbergia sissoo, Leucaena leucocephala, Ficus religiosa, Ficus
66
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
benghalensis, Ficus racemosa within the reserve forests. Prosopis juliflora has invaded
deep in to the open forests and it has become the most dominant species in nearly about
30% of the forest areas.
3.10. 1 Fauna
No, wild life of Schedule I is found in the core zone. Wild rabbit and bat etc. are found
amongst mammals. Indian cobra and other common snakes are found amongst reptiles.
Amongst aves, common peafowl is found besides other common birds.
Field studies are conducted to assess fauna in the study area. On the basis of field studies
and secondary sources, there are no endangered animal species present in the study
area.
TABLE 3.2 LIST OF FAUNA PRESENT IN THE STUDY AREA
S.No. Scientific Name Common Name
I. Invertebrates
1. Megascolex mauriti Earthworm
2. Nereis dumerili Centipede
3. Scolopendra morsidens Cherian
4. Araneus (epeira) diadematus The Garden Spider
5. Caloptery xsplendens Dasmel flies
6. Anax junius Dragon flies
7. Bacillus rossi Grass Hopper
8. Periplaneta Americana Cockroach
9. Scorpio swammerdami Indian Scorpion
10. Apis mellificia Honey Bee
11. Bombyx eupterote Silkworm
12. Anopheles maculipennis Mosquito
13. Culux pipiens Mosquito
II. Vertebrates
a. Amphibians
14. Ichthyophis sps. Blind Worm
15. Bufo melanostictus True Toad
67
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
16. Rana hexadactyla Common Frog
17. Rtigrina Bull Frog
18. Cacopus sps. Frog (small)
b. Reptiles
19. Calotes verticolor Garden Lizard
20. Sitana ponticeriana Small Lizard
21. Chamaeleon zeylanicus Green Lizard 22. Hemidactylus sps. Wall Lizard
23. Drago sps. Small Lizard 24. Testudo elegans Land Tortoise
c. Snakes
25. Bungarus sps. Krait
26. Naja naja Indian Cobra
27. Vipera russelli Viper
d. Birds
28. Columba livia Pigeon
29. Milvus migrans Eagle
30. Corvus varius Crows
31. Passer domesticus Indian House Sparrow
32. Psittaciformes sps. Parrot
e. Mammals
33. Pteropus medius Bat
34. Oryctolagus cuniculus Rabbit
35. Funambulus palamarum Squirrel
36. Rattus rattus House Rat
37. Suncus cacruleus Rat
38. Canis familiarizes Dog
39. Equus assinus Donkey
40. Equus cabalus Domestic Horse
41. Bus indicus Cows
42. Bus bubalus Buffalo
43. Sus scropa Pig
68
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
3.8 Land Use Studies
The leasehold area is an undulating terrain. To demarcate different land use classes
using the remote sensing data such as satellite imagery and application of GIS techniques
for assessing the areal extent of the different classes that is interpreted.
3.8.1 Study Area
The Administrative unit within 5 km radius zone comprises of parts of following
Pallipattu taluk in Thiruvallur district. The study area (5 km Radius from the project site
boundary) lies in the northern Latitudes 13°04’02” N and eastern Longitude 79°21’38” N
and forms part of the Survey of India Toposheet Nos. 57- O/8. As per the EIA guidelines
the study area has been divided into Core zone and Buffer zone which is about 5 km
radius from the boundary of the proposed project site area. The current land use has to
be assessed as it forms the basis for any developmental planning.
44. Herpestes edwardii Common mongoose
45. Bandicota indica Bandicoot
69
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
FIGURE - 3.8: LAND USE MAP SHPWING 5 KM RADIUS OF THE PROJECT SITE
70
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Built-up land
It is defined as an area of human settlements composed of houses, commercial complex,
transport, communication lines, utilities, services, places of worships, recreational areas,
industries etc. Depending upon the nature and type of utilities and size of habitations,
residential areas can be aggregated into villages, towns and cities. All the man made
construction covering land belongs to this category.
Agricultural land
This category includes the land utilized for crops, vegetables, fodder and fruits. Existing
cropland and current fallows are included in this category. It is described as an area
under agricultural tree crops, planted adopting certain agricultural management
techniques.
Wasteland
Wastelands are the degraded or underutilized lands most of which could be brought
under productive use with proper soil and water management practices. Wasteland
results from various environmental and human factors.
Land with or without Scrub
Land with or without scrub usually associated with shallow, stony, rocky otherwise non-
arable lands. Of all the wastelands, land with scrub occupies maximum of 3.08 % of the
total area.
Forest Land
These are the areas bearing an association predominantly of trees and other vegetation
type (within the notified forest boundaries) capable of producing timber and other forest
produce.
Water bodies and coastal wet lands
The category comprises area of surface water, either impounded in the form of ponds,
reservoirs or flowing as streams, rivers and canals. River cater channel is inland
waterways used for irrigation and for flood control.
71
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Conclusion
The land use analyses show that the area is of predominantly Crop land followed by
inland water area in the core and buffer zones of the study area. It is also noticed that the
fallow land occupies 0.53 % of the total area, which clearly indicates that the
development of built-up land increases over a period of time. It is generally agreed that
as the total volume of transport activity may increase due to the development of mining
activity leading to negative externalities like pollution and congestion. Some
environmental damage may be acceptable if transport activity generates positive net
benefits to society.
3.8.2 Land use Pattern Based on Census Data
The land use of the study area has been studied by analyzing the available secondary
data such as the Office of joint Directorate of Agriculture/ Illuminati. The lease-applied
area is a hilly terrain covered with a number of hillocks. The area receives moderate
rainfall and the ground water occurs at a depth of 20m below. Agricultural activities are
fair due to moderate ground water and irrigation facilities. The area experiences arid
climate and there is fair growth of vegetation in and around the area.
For computation of the land use pattern in the study area based on the village-wise land-
use data given in the census records, the geographical area of all settlements covered
within the study area, though many villages in the peripheries of the circular study area
are partially covered. Perfect delineation and quantification of land uses for the partially
covered parts of villages in the study area is not possible, hence the entire village area is
considered for the study, irrespective of its coverage within the study area circle.
The land use is classified into four types - viz. forests, area under cultivation, culturable
waste and the area not available for cultivation. The land under cultivation is further
sub-divided into two types viz. irrigated and un-irrigated. As per the Census records, the
study area admeasure to about 19736.01.0 ha (Department of Agriculture). The land use
details based on census data are presented in Table 3.5. This includes forests, cultivated
area, culturable waste and the area not available for cultivation.
72
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
TABLE 3.16 LAND USE PATTERN OF STUDY AREA
S. No Classification
Year (2008-09)
(ha) Percentage
Year (2009-10)
(ha) Percentage
1. Total Geographical area 13026645 100 342243 100
2. Forest 2110703 16.2 19736.01 5.8
3. Barren and uncultivable area 503255 3.9 13636.125 4
4. Land put to Non-agricultural uses 2138679 16.4 108401.299 31.7
5. Cultivable waste 368661 2.8 7734.883 2.3 6. Permanent pastures and other
grazing lands 110309 0.8 8120.905 2.4
7. Miscellaneous tree crops and
groove; not included in the net area sown
274351 2.1 7568.96 2.2
8. Current fallows 758840 5.8 32017.035 9.4
9. Other fallows 1518008 11.7 38885.795 11.4
10. Net area sown 5243839 40.3 106137.818 30.8
11. Area sown more than once 788879 21326.555
12. Gross area sown 6032718 127464.373
13. Cropping Intensity (%) 1.2 Source: Office of joint Directorate of Agriculture \Illuminati
3.9 Demography and Socio-economics
For assessing the prevailing socio-economic aspects of people in the study area around
the proposed plant, the required data has been collected from various secondary sources
and analyzed.
3.9.1 Methodology Adopted for the Study
The methodology adopted for the study is primarily based on the review of secondary
data, such as District Primary Census Statistical Handbook of Thiruvallur District, 2011
for the parameters of demography, occupational structure of people within the study
73
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
area of 5 Km radius around the proposed plant. The salient features of the demographic
and socio-economic aspects of the study area are described in the following sections.
3.9.2 Demographic Aspects
Distribution of Population
The mine area is located far away from human settlements. Only a few villages are
located within a vicinity of 5 km from the mine site. The details are as following in Table
3.17.
TABLE 3.3 HUMAN SETTLEMENTS
Name of the Village Approximate distance from mine site (in km)
Approximate population**
Mylarwada -- 3353
Vediyankadu 3.61 4668 Paivalasa 6.7 2366 Peddaramapuram 4.54 2565 Meesarakandapuram 3.87 4247
** District Primary Census Hand Book, 2011
As per 2011 census the study area consisted of 3353 persons inhabited in the 5 km
radius study area. The distribution of population in the study area is shown in Table
3.18. The males and females constitute about 50.43 % and 49.57 % of the study area.
TABLE 3.4 DISTRIBUTION OF POPULATION IN STUDY AREA - 2011
Particulars General Study Area No. of Households 771 Male Population 1691 Female Population 1662 Total Population 3353 Average Household Size (Persons) 4.34
Source: District Primary Census Hand Book - 2011
Average Household Size
The study area had an average family size of 4.34 persons per household in 2011. This is
moderate family size and is in comparison with the other parts of the district.
74
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Sex Ratio
The configuration of male and female indicates that the males and females constituted
about 50.43 % and 49.57 % of the total population respectively, as per 2011 census
records. The study area on an average had 1035 females per 1000 males as per 2011
census.
3.9.3 Social Structure
In the study area, as per 2011 census, 3.55% of the population belonged to Scheduled
Castes (SC) and 0.36% to the Scheduled Tribes (ST). This indicates that a considerable
share of population in the study area belong to weaker sections which works out to
about 3.91% of the total population in 2011. The distribution of population in the study
area by social structure is tabulated in Table 3.19.
TABLE 3.19 DISTRIBUTION OF POPULATION BY SOCIAL STRUCTURE - 2011
Sl. No. Particulars Number Percentage 1. Scheduled Castes 734 21.89 2. Scheduled Tribes 14 0.42 3. Total SC and ST 748 22.30 4. Other castes 2605 77.7
Source: District Primary Census Hand Book, 2011
3.9.4 Literacy Levels
The analysis of the literacy levels in the study area reveals a lower literacy rate in the
study area. The study area experienced a lower literacy rate of 50.02% in 2011. If this is
computed only for the people of above the age group of 5 years, i.e. the school going age
people, this would considerably increase the literacy rates. The distribution of literates
and literacy rates in the study area is given in Table 3.20.
TABLE 3.5 DISTRIBUTION OF LITERATES AND LITERACY RATES - 2011 S. No. Particulars Study Area
1. Total Literates 2251 2. Average Literacy Rate (%) 41.98 3. Male Literacy (%) 58.01 4. Female Literacy (%) 41.99 5. Male Literates 1306 6. Female Literates 945
75 JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
3.9.5 Occupational Structure
The occupational structure of the study area is presented in Table 4.18.
TABLE 3.61 OCCUPATIONAL STRUCTURE - 2011
S. No. Occupation Study Area
No. Population (%)
1. Total main workers 1378 47.04
Male 847 61.46 Female 531 38.54
2. Marginal workers 22 0.75
Male 2 9.09 Female 20 90.91
3. Non-workers 1529 52.21
Male 709 46.38 Female 820 53.63
Total Population 2929 100.00 Source: District Primary Census Hand Book, 2011
3.9.6 Infrastructure Facilities
The infrastructure and amenities available in the study area denotes the economic well
being of the region. A multitude of infrastructure facilities are available in the study area,
which consists of advanced and super specialty facilities in fields of education, health
care, communications, transportation, etc. and also onsite shelter and facilities like
temporary shed will be provided to the mine workers.
A review of infrastructure facilities available in the area has been done based on the
information given in the District Census Handbook and the data of National Informatics
Center, for the year 2011. The Infrastructure facilities available in the rural areas of the
study area are described in the subsequent sections.
Transport Facilities
The study area is connected by road transport facilities. As a whole, the study area has
moderate level of communication network. The study area has situated near to Walajah -
Sholingur - Arakonam Road (SH 108) located at a distance of 5 Km on east direction. The
above said road is connected to old NH 4 at a distance of 15.8 Km on Southeast direction.
76
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
4. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION
MEASURES
4.1 Details of the Environmental Impacts
This chapter provides a brief overview of the potential impacts on various
environmental components due to the new mining operation and its allied activities.
The opencast mining operations involve development of benches, approach roads, haul
roads, blasting, excavation and handling & transportation of materials. If adequate
control measures are not taken to prevent/mitigate the adverse environmental impacts,
these operations may cause environmental degradation and lead to irreversible damage
to the ecosystem. Various environmental impacts, which have been identified due to the
proposed project, are discussed in the following sections:
4.1.1 Impact on Land Use
The proposed black granite mine will result in disturbance of the land use pattern of the
mine lease area. The land degradation is expected during mining activities like
excavation, overburden dumping, soil extraction etc. Land requirement for the project
has been assessed considering functional needs. No forest land is involved in the current
mining project.
The potential adverse impact of black granite mining is the change in land use pattern. So
reclamation of mined out land will be given due importance as a step for sound land
resource management. Total overburden is being removed from the excavated area.
About 90% of the OB will be backfilled. External OB dump & internal dump will be
technically and biologically reclaimed. No adverse impact is anticipated on land use of
buffer zone associated due to the proposed mining activity, as all the activities will be
confined within the project site. The proposed mining operations will impact the land
usage and land aesthetics of mine lease area. Rehabilitation is an integral part of the
Environmental Management Plan.
4.1.2 Impact on Air Quality
Mitigative measures suggested for air pollution controls are based on the baseline
ambient air quality of the area. From the point of view of maintenance of an acceptable
77
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
ambient air quality in the region, it is desirable that air quality is monitored on a regular
basis to check compliance of standards as prescribed by regulatory authorities. In case of
non-compliance, appropriate mitigative measures need to be checked.
Measures to Prevent Generation and Dispersal of Dust
Dust particles, which are normally generated during mining operations, become air
borne, thus leading to increase in particulate matter level in the ambient air. In the
proposed mining activity adequate control measures will be adopted during both, mining
operations as well as transportation of black granite within the area.
Water sprinkling system already provided throughout the mine area especially on the
mine roads carrying overburden dumpers. Presently tankers used for the dust
suppression. The no of tankers are proposed to be increased as the capacity of the mine
increases. The control measures already adopted are given below:
Regular cleaning and removal of spillage granite from the roads are done
regularly
Water spraying on haul roads, service roads and overburden dumps will help in
reducing considerable dust pollution
Proper and regular maintenance of mining equipments have to be considered
The treated acid mine water can be utilized for dust suppression in and around
mine areas
Comprehensive green belt around overburden dumps has to be carried out to
reduce to fugitive dust emissions in order to create clean and healthy
environment
Land reclamation has to be carried out for dumps where mining activities have
been completed.
The following additional measures will also be adopted such as,
Dust generation will be reduced by using sharp teeth of shovels
Wet drilling will be carried out to contain the dust
Controlled blasting techniques will be adopted
Charge per hole and charge per round will be optimized
78
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
Cabins for shovel and dumpers and dust masks to workmen will be provided
Information on wind direction and meteorology will be considered while
planning, so that pollutants, which cannot be fully suppressed by engineering
technique, will be prevented from reaching the residential areas
A good housekeeping and proper maintenance will be practiced which will help in
controlling pollution.
The objective of the system is to eliminate the air borne dust or suppress the dust at its
source. The system involves confinement of the dust within the dust producing area by a
curtain of moisture and wetting the dust by direct contact between the particles and
droplets of water. Adequate number of precision anti-clog nozzles will be installed at
suitable locations for suppressing dust by spraying water mixed with suppressant.
Suitable control for dust suppression will be provided and the system will be so inter-
locked that it functions only when the conveyor system is operating or the loading
operation is on. Both preventive and suppressive measures to be taken are elaborated
below:
Drilling Operation
• All drills are to be equipped with dust extractors/arrestors or well drilling.
• Proper maintenance and handlings of drilling units are to be done.
Blasting Operation
Blasting is to be carried out during favourable atmospheric conditions as per guidelines
for controlled blasting to minimize generation of dust.
Loading and Transport
• The haul roads are to be sprayed regularly with water.
• All service roads are to be blacktopped.
• Provision of greenbelts around the mine boundary, service buildings, CHP,
washery area and colony site are to be made.
Controlling CO Levels
The concentration of CO in the ambient air is found to be much below permissible levels
at all the air quality monitoring locations. Expected increase in the CO concentration is
79
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
very low as CO emissions from mining operations are less as compared to other
pollutants. Heavy and light vehicles are the major sources of CO in the mine. All vehicles
and their exhausts will be well maintained and regularly tested for pollutants
concentration.
Controlling NOx Levels
NOx emissions in the mine mainly occur during blasting operations. The main reasons
for NOx emissions are:
• Poor quality of explosives having large oxygen imbalance
• Manufacturing defect;
• Use of expired explosives in which ingredients have disintegrated
• Incomplete detonation, which may be due to low Primer to Column ratio.
To ensure low NOx levels the following measures will be adopted:
• Use of good quality explosives having proper oxygen balance with regular
monitoring
• A normal procedure should be formulated to check / visually inspect all
explosives, and if disintegrated ingredients are spotted, the explosives won't
be used, even if the date has not expired
• The Primer to Column ratio will be rationalized so as to produce minimum
NOx.
Greenbelt
Even with the various dust suppression measures in place, dust generated from mine
faces, fine dust produced during blasting operations are difficult to control. Therefore, in
addition to the above mitigative measures, it is proposed to have dense green belt in and
around the mine site.
Occupational Health & Safety Measures to Control Dust Inhalation
All the above precautions will be adopted to minimize dust generation at site and
prevent dispersion in the outside environment. However, for the safety of workers at
site, engaged at the strategic locations/dust generation points like drills, loading &
80
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
AND MITIGATION MEASURES
unloading points, crushing etc., dust masks will be provided. Dust masks will prevent
inhalation of RPM thereby reducing the risk of respiratory disorders. Regular health
check-up of workers and nearby villagers in the impacted area (1 Km from the core
zone) should be carried out by TAMIN and also regular occupational health assessment
of employees should be carried out as per the Factories Act.
4.1.2.1 Air Pollution Impact Prediction through Dispersion Modeling
Potential impacts on the air quality due to the proposed project will be due to the
fugitive dust and the exhaust gases generated in and around the site due to vehicular
movement. Dust is major component of air pollution, generated mainly from the
following activities:
Manual mining
Storage & Hauling of materials
Operating of vehicles
The impacts will be short term and limited in nature. Proper site selection, appropriate
location of plant and machinery and their regular maintenance shall minimize such
impacts.
Area Source Model
When mining activity is carried out in a small area, the emission from such sources is
considered as Area Source. The total mine area with all its mining activities constitute
the area source. These include all the mining activities, operations of
equipment/machinery, wind erosion from active mine pit, which contribute to the
atmospheric pollution from the various units/activities.
The ISC Short Term area source model is based on a numerical integration over the area
in the upwind and crosswind directions of the Gaussian point source plume. Individual
area sources may be represented as rectangles with aspect ratios (length/width). In
addition, the rectangles may be rotated relative to a north-south and east-west
orientation. As a result, an irregular area source can be represented by a smaller number
of area sources than if each area had to be a square shape. Because of the flexibility in
specifying elongated area sources with the Short Term model, up to an aspect ratio, the
81 JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
AND MITIGATION MEASURES
ISCST area source algorithm may also be useful for modeling certain types of line
sources.
The ground-level concentration at a receptor located downwind of all or a portion of the
source area is given by a double integral in the upwind (x) and crosswind (y) directions.
The ISCST model based on the following assumptions:
Point, area, line sources
Stability classes - 6 preamble limits
No variation in most meteorological variation with height
No information about surface characteristics.
It is a Gaussian plume model appropriate for a complex mixture of sources
Non reactive pollutants
Receptor Location from the Project Site
S.No Name of the Location Distance w.r.t.
Project Site (km) Direction w.r.t.
Project Site 1. Project Site (Mylarwada) - - 2. Katharikuppam 6.46 SW 3. Vasur 8.63 WNW 4. Pendadi 1.71 SE 5. Peddaramapuram 4.54 NNW 6. Meesarakandapuram 3.87 ENE
82 JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
AND MITIGATION MEASURES
Results of Analysis
Incremental values at different location based on wind rose have been computed.
Concentration of PM10 is given in the table below.
3E-005
8E-005
8E-005
0.00013
-10000 -8000 -6000 -4000 -2000 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000-10000
-8000
-6000
-4000
-2000
0
2000
4000
6000
8000
10000
83
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
S.No Receptor Location
(Village) Base Value
(µg/m³) Incremental
Value (µg/m³)
Total (µg/m³)
Standard* (µg/m³)
1. Vasur 54.8 - 54.8
100 2. Peddaramapuram 51.3 5 56.3
3. Meesarakandapuram 56.9 10 76.9
*National Ambient Air Quality Standards
The ground level concentration will not increase significantly the concentration of PM10
values are well below the standards prescribed by CPCB for ambient air quality.
• Occupational Health Impact
Progressive deposition of inhaled particles or dust results in major health problems.
Smaller the particle size (less than PM2.5)) higher is the chemical and biological
reactivity. These smaller particles reach the deepest portion of the lungs. These micron
sized particles, once air-borne, are extremely difficult to be collected or trapped. Lung
functions are impaired due to both respirable and non-respirable dust particles. Chronic
exposure leads to respiratory illnesses like asthma, emphysema, severe dyspnea
(shortness of breath), and bronchitis and in extreme cases pneumoconiosis or the black-
lung disease of miners. The effect of dust may be harmful to the human health.
4.1.2.2 Measures of Minimizing Impacts
A. Delay blasting under unfavorable wind and atmospheric conditions;
B. The production of blast fumes containing noxious gases should be reduced by the
following methods;
• Proper and proportionate mixing of fuel oil with ammonium nitrate to ensure
complete detonation;
• Use of adequate booster/primer; and
• Proper stemming of the blast hole.
C. Drills fitted with dust collection system to be deployed or wet drilling;
D. Regular sprinkling of water on haul roads at regular intervals;
E. Installing permanent water sprinklers at strategic areas/locations/stretches;
F. Regular maintenance of vehicles and machinery should be carried out;
84
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
G. Cabins for shovel and dumpers and dust respirators to workmen should be provided;
H. Dust suppression will be done on exposed area using water trucks and sprinkler;
I. Greenbelt development should be taken up all along the haul roads;
J. Re-vegetation of mined out area and inactive dumps;
K. The dust respirators should be provided to all workers working in dusty
environment; and
L. A good housekeeping and proper maintenance should be practiced which will help in
controlling pollution.
4.1.2.3 Overall Air Impact due to the Mining Operations
As discussed above under each activity, there will be increase in terms of dust load and
gaseous emissions. However, it can be stated that these incremental contributions will
remain within the prescribed limits/norms. Further, the mitigation measures will further
bring down these concentrations making the proposed mining activities more environment
friendly.
4.1.3 Impact on Water Regime
4.1.3.1 Water Demand
As the mining of Black Granite will be restricted to above the water table and will be
confined to depths, there will not be any water percolation within the mine cut as the mine
floor level will be above the water table. As the workings are very shallow and above the
water table, there will be no adverse impact on ground water, because water table is
observed as seen in the surrounding villages. There will also be no sea water intrusion into
the area due to shallow extent of mining operations. As such, there will be only minimal
impact on water regime of the area.
Total number of employees - 37 Numbers
TABLE 4-1 WATER REQUIREMENT CALCULATION
S.No. Category Requirement (KLD) 1. Dust suppression & Drilling purpose 0.9 2. Green Belt development 0.5 3. Domestic purposes 1.4
Total 2.8
85
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
• Water will be sourced from Mylarwada Village Panchayat.
• Generation of Sewage - 1.12 KLD which will be treated through septic tank
followed by soak pit.
FIGURE - 4.3: WATER BALANCE
• Conservation Measures
The following conservation measures will be adopted for this project:-
Domestic sewage will be treated in septic tanks followed by soak Pit.
The acid mine water, if any, can be collected and stored inside mining area then it
has to be pumped out to a storage pond for treatment. Neutralization of acid mine
water shall be carried out using limestone before reusing the treated water for
dust suppression and plantation.
Maximum efforts are made to adopt zero discharge concepts
Construction of settling sedimentation ponds will be made in the project premises
as well as in the colony area for collection and effective utilization of surface
runoff.
4.1.4 Wastewater Generation, Treatment & Disposal
Very insignificant volume of waste water will be generated which will dry up in natural
condition.
86
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
The waste generation will be due to following operation:
• Seepage from mine; and
• Sewage from toilets and wash rooms.
Storm water Management
Care has taken to control the seepage below ground to contaminate ground water in the
saturated zone. The runoff water in rainy season is collected in sump & will be utilized
within the mine area. The surplus treated water, which can’t be used in greenbelt
development during rainy season, will be discharged along with storm water into nearby
water body.
Waste water Management
The waste water management scheme has been formulated to achieve zero discharge of
industrial effluent. This will help in eliminating pollution of surface and ground water
bodies and also conserve the water resources.
To reduce the acid mine water volume in the mine area recycle, reuse options are
adopted.
Water Treatment scheme has adopted to remove suspended matter and acid
mine drainage by the addition of lime to neutralize the acidity.
Sewage from toilets and wash rooms shall be treated in septic tanks and soak pits.
4.1.5 Impact on Noise Levels and Ground Vibrations
4.1.5.1 Noise Impact on Working Environment
During the operation of mines, there would be various sources of noise in the mining
area. These sources are:
• Drilling,
• Blasting,
• Operation of heavy machineries, and
• Vehicular Movement, etc.
Mining operations are main sources of noise levels. Noise due to vehicular movement
will be intermittent, but will also add to the background noise levels.
87
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
Operation of drills, shovels, dumpers, front end loaders and dozers involve noise
generation above 90 dB (A), which is the prescribed Threshold Limit Value. The existing
noise level in the area ranges from 44.3 dB (A) to 48.7 dB (A) and 37.1dB (A) to 47.3 dB
(A) at night. In view of the above factors, the impact on noise levels due to project
operation will be well within environmentally sustainable limits. However, the expected
noise levels are not likely to have any effect from the occupational health point of view.
4.1.5.2 Mitigation Measures for Noise Control
The noise level monitoring carried out in the area has indicated that the present noise
levels are in the range of 44.3 dB (A) to 48.7 dB during the operation of existing mine.
The noise will be generally generated by drilling, blasting, movement of heavy
machinery, crusher and air blast. Air blast is caused due to unconfined or partially
confined explosion and detonating cords exposed in atmosphere.
The following control measures will be adopted to keep the ambient noise levels well
below the limits:
Secondary blasting will be totally avoided
Rock breakers will be used for sizing
Controlled blasting with proper spacing, burden and stemming will be maintained
Minimum quantity of detonating fuse will be consumed by using alternatively
excel non-electrical initiation system
The blasting will be carried out during favorable atmospheric condition and less
human activity timings
The prime movers/diesel engines will be of proper design and will be properly
maintained
The operator’s chamber will be safe guarded with proper enclosures to reduce
the noise levels
A thick green belt will be provided in phased manner around the periphery of the
mine to attenuate noise
Trees will be planted on both sides of haul roads.
88
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
4.1.5.3 Measures to Protect Workers from High Noise Levels
The following measures will be taken to protect the workers from exposure to
higher noise levels:
Provision of protective devices like ear muffs/ear plugs
Provision of sound insulated chambers for the workers deployed on machines
producing higher levels of noise like bulldozers, drills etc
Reducing the exposure time of workers to the higher noise levels
Providing adequate silencers to the dumpers and other vehicles.
4.1.5.4 Vibration Abatement and Fly Rocks
Blasting is the major source of vibration and fly rocks. The measures that are
generally followed and currently proposed for abatement of ground vibration, air
blasting and fly rock are detailed below:
Blasting will be very minor and performed strictly as per the guidelines specified
under blasting technology
Overcharging will be avoided
Supervision of drilling and blasting operations to ensure design blast geometry;
Sub-drilling will be kept just adequate to tear-off the bench bottom
The charge per delay will be minimized and preferably more number of delays
will be used per blasts
Elimination of hole to hole propagation between charges
Blasting operations will be carried out only during day time as per mine safety
guidelines;
Proper warning signals will be used
Adequate safe distance from center of blasting will be maintained
During blasting, other activities in the immediate vicinity will be temporarily
stopped
Drilling parameters like overburden, depth, diameter and spacing will be properly
designed to give proper blast
The mesh ratio E/V will always be more than unity
E/V >1, E = hole spacing, V = distance between rows
Effective stemming of the explosives will be done in the drill holes
89
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
Non electric detonators will be used.
4.1.6 Land Reclamation
As discussed earlier land is to be degraded on account of following activities:
• Quarrying operation that will create pit.
• Dumping of overburden
Land reclamation scheme has been developed that covers the following:
• Backfilling of degraded pit with OB removal in course of mining. Once the backfill
is over, it will be graded and leveled. Saplings would be planted on the prepared
surface.
• For plantation, pits would be dig which will be filled with mixture of top soil &
fertilizers. Such plantations would be done with onset of monsoon.
Similarly, when the formation of external dump is over, it will be physically reclaimed.
This will include:
• Grading & leveling of flat top surface.
• Plantation of sapling on the prepared surface.
• Installation of drainage structure around the dump.
• Construction of toe wall at the foot of the dump.
4.1.6.1 Reclamation of Mined out Land
The Land Reclamation shall be taken up in different steps:
i) The top soil available in the excavation area shall be stacked separately in identify
dump.
ii) The land where excavation / mining were carried out shall be back filled by freshly
mined Overburden from the mine.
iii) The backfilled area shall then be blanketed with cover using top soil from the stacks.
iv) The area backfilled and covered with the top soil shall then be reclaimed biologically
by developing agriculture field, orchard pond/check dams and general afforestation.
90
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
4.1.6.2 Afforestation Programme and Conservation Strategies for Flora
o Restoration of Mined out Areas
One of the major tasks after extraction of granite is restoration of the mined out area
which is an important task in the mining project. Compensation afforestation is not
mandatory for this project as no forest land involved in the project. But it is important to
establish a programme of progressive rehabilitation commensurate with the nature of
operation, rate of disturbance and also considering pre-project land-use so that the pre-
mining land-use and ecological values can be re-established to the extent possible.
o Surface Preparation
Proper landscaping of the area before start of the restoration process is very important.
Topsoil has a large number of seeds of native plant species in the mining area. Topsoil
should be used for restoration of plant species and also for providing a suitable surface
for planted seedlings.
o Site Preparation
Site preparation will begin before initiating the habitat restoration work in the mined
out areas. These will include (a) Collection and conservation of the topsoil (b) Backfilling
with the overburden (c) Collection, spreading and mixing of organic matter and (d)
Spreading topsoil. It is very important that the slopes are maintained at a gentle
gradient, otherwise the topsoil and organic conditioners will be washed away in the first
monsoon year of restoration.
o Seeding of Leguminous Herbs and Grasses
The habitat restoration program should begin with leguminous species and grasses in
the early stage. The leguminous herbs and grasses will act as a soil binder and soil
conditioner. Seeds of both leguminous species and grasses should be collected the
previous year in sufficient quantity.
91
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
o Species Selection
The list of tree species found in the area is given in the report. Many of the species can be
used for plantation. Some shrub species may also be planted. All the species will be
native to the area and will help in regeneration of forest on the mined out area.
o Plantation of Seedlings
Plantation of tree and shrubs species should be started by first week of the month of May
so that the saplings will get established and will not suffer shock due to heavy rain.
Therefore, the seedlings to be planted should be ready by this time. The operations to be
carried out are given below:
a. Staking operations
b. Digging pits
c. Transporting soil and Farm Yard Manure from outside
d. Filling in pits
4.1.6.3 Monitoring of Mine Restoration
A period of five years is proposed as a trial phase during which restoration trials are
carried out on small plots of mined out land in the mine. After the technique is perfected,
it can be applied to the remaining area to be restored. A detailed baseline survey of flora
and fauna has been already carried out in an area 10 km around the project site. This
adds to the scientific knowledge of the biodiversity of the area. More importantly this
gives a sound basis for carrying out mine restoration by replicating the existing
vegetation.
A rigorous monitoring exercise will feed into the existing restoration practices and help
in making necessary changes. A minimum-level monitoring program should be
developed addressing the following components:
Species-wise survival percentage of planted trees and shrubs
Species-wise measurements of tree growth including height and girth
Species-wise measurements of planted shrubs including height (and clump size in
case of bushy shrubs).
92
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
o Restoration of Rare Plants
All threatened plant species should be restored during reclamation. The specific habitats
of such plant species in the buffer zone areas need to be protected. The plant species as
mentioned, which fall under various threat categories must be restored in the buffer
zone areas through ex-situ conservation approach. This may be done through developing
nurseries of these plant species.
o Species Recovery and Rehabilitation Programme
The species which are in low density and abundance should be rehabilitated through ex-
situ multiplication and subsequent reintroduction in their habitats where their
population can be established. To mitigate the pressure on valuable and rare medicinal
herbs local inhabitants of the buffer zone villages should be encouraged to cultivate them
instead of simply collecting from the wild.
o Establishment of Seed, Rhizome and Tuber Bank
The rare and endangered plant species may be conserved more efficiently by
establishing arboretum or botanical garden. This garden can be used for ex-situ
conservation of various species including rare, medicinal, and other ethno-botanically
useful species.
o Research
Research and monitoring on the following aspects will help in the effective management
of botanicals: (a) propagation of rare plants through tissue culture, (b) ecological
investigations of sensitive taxa inducing their regeneration potential, and (c) impact of
unsustainable harvesting of NTFPs.
o Training
Short training programs for villagers, staffs and other stakeholders on the conservation
and management of useful plant species should be organized. A mobile interpretation
centre should be developed in order to educate the local people regarding the floral
diversity and its conservation. The centre should house the brochures, books and posters
93
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
on vegetation wealth, photographs of important plants, audio visual programs on
biodiversity issues, etc for various stakeholders.
o Species for Plantation
Species to be selected will fulfil the following specific requirements of the area:
Tolerance to specific conditions or alternatively wide adaptability to eco-
physiological conditions
Rapid growth
Capacity to endure water stress and climate extremes after initial
establishment
Differences in height and growth habits
Pleasing appearances
Providing shade.
Additional factors which will be considered while selecting species looking into
industrial environment include:
Fast growing
Thick canopy cover;
Perennial and evergreen
Large leaf area index
High sink potential
Efficient in absorbing pollutants without significantly affecting their growth
Local Indigenous species.
Based on the above, the recommended species for greenbelt and plantation are given in
Table 4.3. Further the already existing / native species will be given preference.
TABLE 4-2 RECOMMENDED PLANTS FOR GREENBELT
S.No. Scientific Name Common Name Tamil Name I. Herbs 1. Arachis hypogaea Groundnut Verkadalai 2. Crotalaria sp. Rattle Box Sangupuspam 3. Helianthus sp. Sunflower Suriyakandhi 4. Moringa oleifera Drumstick Tree Murungai 5. Perotis indica Comet Grass Narivalapullu
94
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
6. Tephrosia villosa Runchhali Kolingi II. Shrubs 7. Cactus grandiflorus Cactus Kalli 8. Calotropis gigantean Crown Flower Erukku 9. Citrus aurantifolia Lemon Elumichai
10. Ricinus communis Castor Aamanakku 11. Datura sp. Moon Flower /
Devil’s Apple Umathai
III. Trees 12. Aegle marmelos Holy fruit tree Vilvam 13. Albizia lebbeck Siris tree Vagai 14. Azadirachta indica Neem Vembu 15. Casuarina equisetifolia Shingle oak Savukku 16. Cocos nucifera Coconut Thennai
Maram 17. Ficus benghalensis Banyan Alamaram 18. Mangifera indica Mango Maamaram 19. Polyanthia glabra Asoka Ashokamaram 20. Pongamia glabra Indian Beech Pungam 21. Prosopis spicigera Dasara Tree Karuvelam 22. Psidium guajava Guva Goiyamaram 23. Tamarindus indica Tamarind Puliyamaram 24. Thespesia populnea Indian Tulip Tree Poovarasu 25. Borassus flabellifer Palm Tree Panamaram IV. List of Cultivated Crops 26. Arachis hypogaea Groundnut Verkadalai 27. Gossypium hirsutum Cotton Paruthi 28. Canna indica Banana Vazhaimaram 29. Piper betle Betel Leaf Pepper Vetrillai 30. Anacardium occedentale Cashew Munthiri 31. Ttectona grandis Teak Thaeikku
4.1.7 Biological Environment
4.1.7.1 Impact on Wildlife
There is no National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary, Biosphere Reserve, Tiger/Elephant
Reserve, Wildlife corridor etc. within 10 km radius of the project site. Srikalikapuram
95
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
and Ammur Reserved Forest falls at a distance of ~ 8.8 km in NE direction and ~ 3.0 km
in SW direction respectively, which is far away from the proposed mine site, therefore,
mining will not cause problem to the existing wildlife.
It is also observed that the faunal species found in the study area are commonly found
species. No rare, endemic & endangered species are reported in the buffer zone.
However, during mining activities the mine management will practice scientific method
of mining with proper Environmental Management Plan including pollution control
measures especially for air and noise, which will not cause any adverse impact on the
surrounding wildlife.
Besides, Plantation & Green belt development will be undertaken to improve the floral
cover of the area which will eventually attract micro fauna, birds etc. in the area thereby
help in development of wildlife. For that, assistance will be taken from local forest
department in selection of species of plant species so that green coverage could improve
very fast. The varieties would include those plants, which are suitable to the area will be
planted.
4.1.7.2 Impact on Flora
No adverse impact is envisaged on the existing flora, as there will be no deforestation by
mining operation. Plantation will be developed in the mining lease area as per plantation
programme. These activities help to improve the floral cover of the area. The greenery
and plantation development will eventually attract micro fauna, birds etc in the area.
Assistance will be taken from local forest department in selection of species of plants so
that green coverage could improve very fast. The varieties would include those plants,
which are suitable in the area.
4.1.7.3 Impact on Fauna
The mining lease area is in non-forest land where presence of fauna is very rare. No
endangered species of fauna is found in and around lease area. As such, there will be no
adverse impact of the mining activity on fauna around the mining lease area.
96
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
4.1.8 Socio-Economic Development
4.1.8.1 Impacts
Opening of a mine or any other industry will have positive impacts on the socio-
economic factors due to new job opportunities, organized employment, improving the
skills, consequent migration of population etc., and raise the economic living level. The
proposed Black Granite mining project will provide direct employment for about 31
persons and indirectly to about 50 persons through allied trading, transportation from
mining area. The family members and others also will be benefited indirectly.
All developmental works needs to be carried out keeping in mind the potential needs of
the local people of the area. Under all circumstances, the needs (economic, social and
cultural) of the local people have to be properly and adequately addressed.
All major aspects of the lives of the people in villages have been covered under the study
to make a comprehensive assessment of their need in order to help them lead a more
complete, fulfilling and happy life. Discussions with the villagers revealed that they need
support and guidance to uplift their social and economic conditions to achieve their
aspiration of much better life than that they were leading at present. It came to the fore
that the villages lacked basic necessities of life. The major areas which required
immediate attention relates to infrastructure support, health & sanitation, school
education, youth development, income generation activities & veterinary services.
TAMIN initiated the above amenities either by providing or by improving the facilities,
which is certainly help in improving the quality of life of local communities.
The preference will be given to the local population for direct and in-direct employment.
The proposed project may create opportunities for indirect employment in the field of
vehicle hiring, labours, trading of construction material, carpenters etc. This will help in
improving the socio economic status of the region.
4.1.8.2 Impact on Population Growth
This project will have an impact on the population growth, as it will provide some direct
and indirect employment to the people from the nearby villages. Preference will be given
to local unemployed youth for employment and in operation of mines depending upon
97
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
their suitability which will enhance substantially the income status of population of the
area and due to migration of people from outside area will be having impact on the area.
4.1.8.3 Impact on Literacy and Educational Facilities
The literacy level of the project area is likely to increase as there will be influx of many
educated people taking up jobs in the mine, which is likely to result in establishment of
better educational facilities. Better literacy rates are possible due to assumed better
economic conditions of the people. Better literacy means better social status and will
improve the life style in the region. This will be a positive impact in the region due to the
proposed project.
4.1.8.4 Impact on Civic Amenities
The impact of mining on the civic amenities will be substantial after the commencement
of mining activities. As per the census 2011, the area has a good network of roads,
educational facilities, post & telegraph facilities and health care facilities. The
construction of new roads inside and outside of the project area will enhance the
transportation facilities. With improved transportation facilities there is always a scope
for development.
4.1.8.5 Impact on Health Care Facilities
Proper health care facilities near the mining area are being developed in the form of a
dedicated Health Care Centre at Colony, which will also be extended in the surrounding
villages through its rural welfare schemes. An ambulance is provided round the clock at
the Mines site for emergency transport of injured or patient.
4.1.8.6 Impact on Economic Aspects
The impact of mining on the economic aspects can be clearly observed. The mining
activities will provide employment to persons of different skills and trades. The local
population will have preference to get an employment. The employment potential will
improve economic conditions of these families directly and provide employment to
many other families indirectly who are involved in business and service oriented
activities. These will in-turn improves the quality of life in the region. The proposed
98
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
mining will also help development of ancillary industries. These will further boost the
economic avenues for the local population.
4.1.8.7 Impact on Sensitive Locations
There are no buildings of public interest and monuments notified by the Archaeological
Department in and around the mine lease area. Thus, there will not be any impact on the
tourist/religious or historical important places due to the project.
4.1.8.8 Irreversible & Irretrievable Commitments of Environmental Components
An irreversible commitment of a resource is one that cannot be changed once it occurs;
an irretrievable commitment means that the resource cannot be recovered or reused.
The project could result in irreversible or irretrievable commitments of certain
resources as follows:
Capital and labour required to construct the proposed project will be an
irreversible and irretrievable commitment of resources.
Construction materials such as gravel, concrete, cement and steel required to
construct the facilities will be irretrievably committed for at least the life of the
project.
Fossil fuels and energy used for equipment and vehicles will be irretrievably
consumed during construction and operations.
Commitments of other resources will include vegetation and habitat lost, and
resources destroyed.
The primary irretrievable commitment is the decision to commit the land to
mining permanently.
4.1.8.9 Mitigation measures
In order to mitigate the anticipated adverse impacts due to the proposed project, an
action plan covering mitigative measures on environmental and social issues has been
developed. The proposed plan clearly focuses on the key issues, and recommends
effective implementation of the suggested action plan for negating the environmental
and social impacts in a systematic manner, and promoting sustainable development of
the community in the post-project period. While formulating the action plan for the
99
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
development of the affected villages as well as the peripheral area, utmost care has been
taken and some special considerations have been selected while keeping the peculiar
socio-cultural and economic aspects of the communities.
All developmental works needs to be carried out keeping in mind the potential needs of
the local people of the area. Under all circumstances, the needs (economic, social and
cultural) of the local people have to be properly and adequately addressed.
All major aspects of the lives of the people in villages have been covered under the study
to make a comprehensive assessment of their need in order to help them lead a more
complete, fulfilling and happy life. Discussions with the villagers revealed that they need
support and guidance to uplift their social and economic conditions to achieve their
aspiration of much better life than that they were leading at present. It came to the fore
that the villages lacked basic necessities of life. The major areas which required
immediate attention relates to infrastructure support, health & sanitation, school
education, youth development, income generation activities & veterinary services.
TAMIN initiated the above amenities either by providing or by improving the existing
facilities, which is certainly help in improving the quality of life of local communities.
The preference will be given to the local population for direct and in-direct employment.
The proposed project may create opportunities for indirect employment in the field of
vehicle hiring, labours, trading of construction material, carpenters etc. This will help in
improving the socio economic status of the region.
4.2 Community Development Action Plan
The proposed black granite mining project is being benefit the communities residing in
various affected villages around mine lease boundary as well as the peripheral villages
either directly or indirectly while generating many positive impacts in villages around
the project site. All efforts are being kept by the TAMIN for the development of the
region under its peripheral area development programmes, particularly the affected
villages due to establishment of the mining project. As a part of Corporate Responsibility,
All major aspects of the lives of the people in villages have been covered under the study
to make a comprehensive assessment of their need in order to help them lead a more
100
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
complete, fulfilling and happy life. Discussions with the villagers revealed that they need
support and guidance to uplift their social and economic conditions to achieve their
aspiration of much better life than that they were leading at present. It came to the fore
that the villages lacked basic necessities of life. The major areas which required
immediate attention relates to infrastructure support, health & sanitation, school
education, youth development, income generation activities & veterinary services.
TAMIN initiated the above amenities either by providing or by improving the existing
facilities, which is certainly help in improving the quality of life of local communities.
The preference will be given to the local population for direct and in-direct employment.
The proposed project may create opportunities for indirect employment in the field of
vehicle hiring, labours, trading of construction material, carpenters etc. This will help in
improving the socio economic status of the region.
4.3 Occupational Health
TAMIN has concern and takes full responsibility for the protection of the workers against
sickness, disease and injury arising out of their employment and have adopted certain
principles with regard to occupational health services, like establishing and maintaining
a safe and healthy working environment which will facilitate optimal physical and
mental health in relation to work.
TAMIN also adopts following occupational health measures,
(a) Identification and assessment of the risks from health hazards in the workplace;
(b) Surveillance of the factors in the working environment and working practices which
may affect workers' health, including sanitary installations, canteens and housing;
(c) Advice on planning and organization of work, including the design of workplaces, on
the choice, maintenance and condition of machinery and other equipment and on
substances used in work.
4.3.1 Identification of Work Related Health Hazards
Details of the principle environmental and occupational risks that are likely to be created
are given in Table 4.4.
101
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
TABLE 4-3 WORK RELATED HEALTH HAZARDS
Sl. No. Hazardous Activities
Type of Hazards Severity of Injury
1. Drilling Exposed to high level of Noise Hearing impairment Exposed to dusty environment Dust related diseases
2. Blasting Struck by fly rock Serious Physical injury Exposed to dusty environment Dust related diseases Exposed to high level noise Hearing impairment Exposed to excessive vibration
3. Loading Struck by rolling big boulders Serious injury, and equipment damage
Struck by fall of objects Serious Physical injury 4. Transportation Accidental runaway of vehicle Serious injury, and
equipment damage Fall of vehicle from height while reversing Exposed to high level noise Hearing impairment Fire in engine due to over heating
Serious Physical injury
5. Unloading of stone into hopper
Fall of dumper in hopper, or into lower surface
Serious injury, and equipment damage
6. Welding, gas cutting
Emission of gases & fumes Asphyxiation Release of radiation & light Eye injury Fire Burns, Release of heat Skin problem
7. Storage of oil, lubricant
Leaks and spills Fire & vigorous chemical reaction
8. Battery maintenance handling
Acid spillage Acid burns
9. Use/repair of hydraulic jacks & pumps
High pressure operation Physical injury Oil spillage Rupture of hydraulic hoses
TABLE 4-4 RANKING OF RISKS TO PUBLIC HEALTH
Dust Drilling, Blasting, Material Handling
Noise Blasting, Drilling
Vibrations Drilling, Blasting, Crushing
CO2 , N0x , SO2, HC HEMM operation at mines
102
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
4.3.2 Impact on safety
Normally in a mine the possible causes which can hinder safe working / operations are:
a. Flooding of Mines
b. Slope failure due to instability of soil
Slope failure due to blasting
Accidents due to deployment of machineries, installation of electrical circuits, etc
The mining operations do not envisage any blasting or deployment of any heavy
machinery, since operations are entirely manual and excavation of deposits is limited to
depth. There are no operations in night. Hence the impact on safety is negligible with
respect to the proposed project. These changes or impacts, which could be beneficial or
adverse, need adequate Environmental Management Plan, So that the adverse impacts
are mitigated and the post-project environmental status is restored to as near original
conditions as possible. By understanding the cause and effect and designing proper
control measures, it is possible to bring the impacts within sustainable limits or
sometimes to create even better environment than earlier.
4.3.3 Assessment of Risks
Risks will be assessed through impact severity and probability studies. In addition to the
air & water quality monitoring, soil analysis and vibration studies will be carried out.
Measures to Communicate Risks for Prevention and Control
Measures will be taken to communicate risks before starting of mining to general people.
This will be done through proper training and conducting safety talks for awareness of
risks involved and correct practices communication by ways of display boards and safety
meets. Procedures and work instructions will be displayed and communicated to all on
regular basis.
4.3.4 Safety Measures Adopted Prior To Conduct Blasting Operation
Entry roads and approach roads to the mining lease area should be guarded by
placing red flags at appropriate entry points during the time of blasting operation.
Blaster should be a qualified and approved person by Directorate General of
Mines Safety, DGMS - Government of India
103
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
A shelter for the blaster will be provided to safeguard from any flying debris
The distance between the blaster and the blasting site will be decided depending
upon the type of explosives and detonators to be used. Normally safe distance
may be in the range of 500 m from the blasting site.
Blowing of whistles for longer duration will be done at appropriate locations
selected at a safe distance from the blasting site.
4.4 Solid Waste
In the proposed granite mining project, the side burden is used to backfill the mine pit
area. Hence there shall be very minimum impact on solid waste.
4.4.1 Proposal for Waste Management:
The waste material generated in the mine mostly includes rock fragments and rubbles of
varying size shape and angularity. There is only very limited quantity of topsoil and
interstitial soil which can be used for stabilizing the sides of the waste dump and for
planting trees over the dumps. Suitable variety of soil will be brought from outside for
the above purpose if necessary.
Adequate area have been identified on the southern side for forming a platform for
mining activities which comprises of the country rock exposures and devoid of
commercial granite occurrence and southwest portion of the lease area and along the
safety distance along the base boundary. Suitable species of trees to be grown over such
rocky waste dump will be identified with the assistance of forest department officials or
agricultural experts to evolve proper afforestation plan.
4.4.2 Proposal for reclamation of land affected by mining activities during and at the end
of mining:
As a Petro genetic character, the depth persistence of the black granite body in the mine
area is beyond the workable limits. However it is very difficult to operate granite
dimensional stone mine economically below a depth of 30m by observing the statutory
provisions of mine safety Rules and Regulations. Hence in the proposed mining plan,
only 30m depth has been envisaged as workable depth for safe and economic mining.
104
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
However, it is proposed not to backfill the ultimate pit, in ad much as good quantity of
reserves is available below the workable depth of 30m and there is possibility of
technology up gradation in granite mining for greater depths. The pit boundaries shall be
safety fenced and used for fissiculture purpose when the pit is filled with underground
sea page of water or rain waters.
4.4.3 Phased Programme of Planting Trees:
The dump yard and the inertial soil are to be dumped on the North Eastern boundary of
the area near the plain land. And in this area will be taken up for afforestation
programme. Appropriate species of trees will be planted in a phased manner at 3m
intervals as described below:
TABLE 4-5 PHASED PROGRAMME OF PLANTING TREES
Year
No. of trees proposed to be
planted
Survival rate expected
No. of trees expected to be
grown First 50 60% 30
Second 50 60% 30 Third 50 60% 30
Fourth 50 60% 30 Fifth 50 60% 30
Such fauna or flora which can be successfully grown over such granite rubbles and the
methodology to be followed for afforestation will be identified with the technical
assistance of forest department. Suitable variety of soil will be brought from outside if
necessary, for utilizing for stabilizing the dumps as well as for growing vegetation over
the dumps.
4.4.4 Measure for Dust suppression
Water will be sprinkled for suppression of air borne dust on mine haulage roads and
waste dumps on regular intervals by water tankers. Drilling of blast holes will be always
under wet condition to prevent flying of dust. In the unloading point of Tippers, water
will be sprinkled and further the drillers are provided with respirators in accordance
with mines regulations.
105
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
4.4.5 Measure to minimize vibrations due to blasting and check noise pollution
Wire saw machine is going to be utilized for the extrication of blocks from the parent
rock. If necessary conventional drill hole of 32 mm will be made and will be blasted with
low explosive of gunpowder to eliminate the toes and other hurdles.
4.4.6 Stabilization and vegetation of dumps
The topsoil will be gainfully used for stabilizing the dumps of incoherent materials and
growing plants.
106
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-5 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES (TECHNOLOGY AND SITE)
5. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES (TECHNOLOGY AND SITE)
5.1 Site Alternatives under Consideration
The mining projects are site specific as such alternate sites were not considered.
5.2 Analysis of Alternative Technology
5.2.1 Method of Mining
As per the original approved Mining Plan, the mine is operating with semi-mechanized
opencast method using conventional mining equipments i.e. hydraulic excavators /
shovels and dumpers combination with ancillary mining equipment like motor graders,
dozers, water sprinklers etc. A bench height not exceeding 6 metres and a bench width
not less than the height has to be maintained. The slope angle of such benches and sides
should not exceed 60` from horizontal. In the exercise of forming the benches with 60`
slope within the granite deposit, the portion confined within the 60` as well as its
complimentary part in the extricated block will become as mineral waste while shaping
into rectangular blocks. The Granite industry needs blocks as huge as a few cubic metre
volumes with measurements up to 3m x 2m x 2m.
In general, the overburden strata are quite soft in nature and can comfortably be
excavated by hydraulic excavators, without the aid of drilling-blasting. However, during
the course of mining, we found some hard compact strata, which could not be excavated
by bigger capacity Hydraulic excavators even after ripping by dozers. These strata
require blasting. Mechanisation of the mine is limited to the deployment of hydraulic
excavators, rear-dump dumpers and ancillary machinery like Bull dozers & motor
graders. The same is planned to be continued. Only the diesel operated machinery are in
use. Use of mechanized drilling is now being planned for breaking the hard strata.
107
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-5 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES (TECHNOLOGY AND SITE)
108
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN
6. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN
6.1 Implementation Schedule of Mitigation Measures
The mitigation measures suggested in Chapter-4 will be implemented so as to reduce the
impact on the environment due to the operations of the proposed project.
Implementation schedule of mitigation measures are given in Table - 6.1.
TABLE - 6.1: IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE
Sr. No. Recommendations Time Requirement Schedule
1. Air pollution control
measures
Before increase the
commissioning of the plant
Immediate
2. Water pollution control
measures
Before increase the
commissioning of the plant
Immediate
3. Noise control measures Along with the commissioning
of the plant
Immediate
4. Ecological preservation
and upgradation
Stage-wise implementation Progressive
6.2 Environmental Monitoring
The Environmental monitoring for the mining operations will be conducted as follows:
• Air quality;
• Water and wastewater quality;
• Noise levels; and
• Greenbelt development.
To evaluate the effectiveness of environmental management programme, regular
monitoring of important environmental parameters will be taken up. The schedule,
duration & parameter to be monitored are given in Table - 6.2. The monitoring program
for implementation is given below.
109
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN
TABLE - 6.2: MONITORING SCHEDULE FOR ENVIRONMENT PARAMETERS
S. No
Particulars Duration of
Sampling Important Monitoring Parameters
1. Air Pollution and Meteorology Air Quality A Ambient Air Quality Monitoring 6 locations 24 hours PM10, PM2.5, SO2, NOx and CO Meteorology A Meteorological
data Continuous Monitoring
Wind speed, direction, temperature, relative humidity and rainfall
2. Water and Wastewater Quality A Industrial/Domestic
1) Mine effluents (if any) during Monsoon
Once in a month 12 samples per year
As per EPA Rules, 1989.
B Water quality in the study area 1) Ground Water
quality Once in a year
As per the parameters specified under IS:10500
2)
Surface Water Once in a year As per the parameters specified under IS:10500 along with TSS, BOD & COD
3) Water table in bore wells
Once in a year 12 samples per year
Water table and chemistry of water
3. Industrial Noise Levels 1) Major noise
generating sources
24 hr Noise level in dB(A)
2) Near the blasting / drilling site
Instantaneous Noise level in dB(A)
Ambient Noise Levels Six Locations
around mine lease area
Once in a year 12 samples per year
Noise levels in dB(A)
4. Soil Characteristics
110
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN
1)
Four samples in nearby villages
One in a year on all reclaimed area
Colour, textural class, grain size, distribution, pH, Electrical Conductivity, Bulk Density, Porosity, Infiltration rate, Moisture retention capacity, Wilting Co-efficient, Organic matter Na, N, K, PO4, SO4, SAR, Base Exchange Capacity, Pb, Cu, Zn, Cd, Fe.
Source: ABC Techno Labs, Chennai
• Air Pollution Aspects
Ambient air quality is being monitored regularly monitored by CPCB authorized
Schedule I & Schedule II Auditors. The ambient air is being monitored following the
guidelines of the Central Pollution Control Board at 6 locations in and around the mine
lease area. Arrangements will be made to record the meteorological parameters like
wind speed, wind direction, temperature, relative humidity and rainfall at mine site.
• Water and Wastewater Quality
The ground and mine pit water quality is being monitored in every month at selected
locations. The water table will be monitored in the wells of surrounding villages once in
a year.
• Noise Levels
Noise levels in the work zone are being monitored regularly once in a month. The ground
vibration will be recorded at the time of blasting. The frequency of noise monitoring will
be once in a month in the work zone. The ambient noise levels in the surrounding
villages will be monitored once in six months.
• Soil Sampling
Soil samples will be tested before plantation/vegetation of the area. The environmental
monitoring cell will co-ordinate all monitoring programs at site and data thus generated
will be regularly furnished to the State as well as other regulatory agencies.
6.3 Monitoring Methods and Data Analysis of Environment Monitoring
All environmental monitoring and relevant operational data will be transferred and
processed in a centralised computer facility equipped with needed software. Regular
data extracts and interpretive reports will be sent to the concerned regulator(s).
111
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN
6.3.1 Air Quality Monitoring and Data Analysis
The concentration of air borne pollutants in the workspace / work zone environment
will be monitored periodically. If concentrations higher than threshold values are
observed, the source of fugitive emissions will be identified and necessary measures will
be initiated. Additional greenbelt will be developed for minimising dust propagation.
6.3.2 Water and Wastewater Quality Monitoring and Data Analysis
Methods prescribed in "Standard Methods for Examination of Water and Wastewater"
prepared and published jointly by the American Public Health Association (APHA), the
American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the Water Pollution Control
Federation (WPCF); Manual on Water and Wastewater Analysis published by NEERI,
Nagpur are recommended.
6.4 Monitoring Equipment and Consumables
Environmental monitoring is being outsourced to a GPCB approved auditors.
a) Air Quality and Meteorology
The following equipment and consumable items will be provided:
• Respirable Dust Samplers;
• Personal sampler;
• CO Monitor;
• Weather station (automatic recording);
• Spectrophotometer (visible range);
• Single pan balance;
• Relevant chemicals;
• Glass wares.
b) Water and Wastewater Quality
The following equipment is recommended to be available with the environment
department.
• BOD incubator;
112
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN
• Refrigerator;
• Oven;
• Stop watch;
• Thermometer;
• pH meter;
• COD reactor;
• Portable gas analyzer
• Distilled water plant; and
• Relevant chemicals and glass wares.
c) Noise Levels
Sound level meter to record noise levels in different scales like A, B and C with slow and
fast response options and vibration meter.
6.5 Occupational Health and Safety
Occupational health and safety is very closely related to productivity and good employer-
employee relationship. The main factors of occupational health in mines are fugitive dust
and noise. Safety of employees during blasting operation and maintenance of mining
equipment and handling of explosive materials is to be taken care of as per the Mine
Regulations, 1961 and Circulars of DGMS. To avoid any adverse effects on the health of
workers due to dust, heat, noise and vibration, sufficient measures have been proposed
in the EMP. These include:
• Provision of wet drilling /or dust collectors;
• Provision of rest shelters for mine workers with amenities like drinking water,
fans, toilets etc.;
• Provision of personnel protection devices for the workers;
• Rotation of workers exposed to high noise areas;
• Closed control room in crusher house with proper ventilation; and
• First-aid facilities.
Occupational Health Survey of the employees will be carried out at regular intervals.
113
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN
6.6 Budgetary Allocation for Environment Protection
The details of investment for procuring the equipment for efficient control and
monitoring of pollution along with annual recurring cost are given in Table-6.3.
TABLE - 6.3: COST OF ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION MEASURES
S. No. Description of Item Capital Cost
(in lakhs) Operational Cost in
lakhs per annum
1. Dust suppression by Water spraying
- Rs. 2,98,000
2. Personal Protective gears - Rs.10,000
3. Green belt - Rs. 62,000
4. Miscellaneous like spares etc. - Rs. 50,000
Total Rs. 4,20,000 *Above cost exclude mine closure cost. 6.7 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME
The mining plan proposed is for a very small production of granite dimensional stone
without involving deep hole drilling and heavy blasting. Such limited mining activity is
not likely to cause any impact adversely on environment as far as pollution of air, water
and noise is concerned.
TABLE - 6.4 Environmental Management Plan
Salient Items Proposals as per Approved Mining
Plan
Position at the end of five years of
Mining Plan Period
Proposals for the next five years
plan period
Top Soil storage preservation and utilization
The question of top soil storage, preservation and utilization does not arise.
The question of top soil storage, preservation and utilization does not arise.
The question of top soil storage, preservation and utilization does not arise.
Land Reclamation
Proposed not to backfill the mine-pit.
The mine-pit[s] were left as it is, as already proposed in mining plan period
The mine-pit will be left as it is in the ensuing five years period.
Waste Dump Management
The waste material generated in the mine
The waste has been dumped as proposed
The same procedure will be followed in
114
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN
mostly includes the side burden, rock fragments and rubbles of varying size shape and angularity as granite rejects during production / development works that are being dumped on the Southern part of the terrain made up of country rock which is not a commercial granite as well as along 7.5m inner safety distance.
in the mining plan period.
the ensuring five years period and due to inadequacy for dumping it is proposed to acquire additional land preferably adjacent to the lease area.
Afforestation program with precautions for survival and protection of plantation.
It is proposed to plant trees on the 7.5m inner safety distance on the southern and south North part of the lease boundary @ 50 plants per annum with expected survival rate of 50%.
As against the proposals, only 10 plants have been planted on eastern part of inner boundary. During the first year of mining plan period and achieved 50% of survival rate.
In the Mining scheme period, it is proposed to plant 30 trees on the 7.5m inner safety distance on the western and south eastern part of the lease boundary with expected survival rate of 50% with spacing of plants at 3m interval. Land Use & Afforestation Plan (Plate No.4) is given in mining plan.
Quality of mine water and any interference with surface water spruces
The proposal for the confinement of waste dump so arranged to prevent the interference of surface water sources and thus the quality of mine water is good.
Followed the procedure as proposed in the mining plan
Proposed the same procedure to be followed in the ensuing five years period.
Fly rock fragments and precautions
Proposed to follow up muffle blasting so as to prevent fly rock fragments.
Followed the muffle blasting procedure and thus prevented the fly rock fragments.
In the ensuing mining Period, the same safety precautions will be followed.
115
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME AND PLAN
116
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
7. ADDITIONAL STUDIES
The following additional studies/activities have been carried out for the proposed
opencast mine on different aspects:
The public hearing was conducted in compliance to EIA Notification and the public
hearing points raised and commitment of the project proponent is incorporated;
Tamil Nadu Minerals Limited (TAMIN) has carried out a detailed Mine Closure
studies;
Risk assessment studies have been carried out including preparation of Disaster
Management Plan; and
Occupational Health and safety studies have been conducted and a safety plan was
prepared.
7.1 Public Consultation
The public hearing for the proposed black granite mine by M/s. Tamil Nadu Minerals
Limited was conducted on 11.12.2014 (11.00 A.M) at Project site located at Mylarwada
village, Pallipattu Taluk, Thiruvallur District as per Environmental Impact Assessment
Notification dated 14th September 2006.
The press notification indicating date and venue of the public hearing was issued by
Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board in prominent news papers in the region “INDIAN
EXPRESS” in English on 04.11.2013 and “DINATHANTHI” in Chennai on 04.11.2013 with
project details inviting suggestions, views, comments and objections from the public. The
copy of the advertisements is enclosed as Annexure - VI. The Draft Rapid Environmental
Impact Assessment Report and summary of Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment
Report in English and Tamil are made available for public reference at the following
places.
1. O/o. District Collector, Tiruvallur District
2. District Industries Centre, Tiruvallur District.
3. The Commissioner, R.K. Pet Panchayat Union, R.K. Pet
4. Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, 76 Mount Road, Guindy, Chennai – 32
117
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
5. Regional Office, Ministry of Environment & Forest, Government of India,
Bangalore.
6. O/o. District Environmental Engineer, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, 41, 1st
Street, Judges Colony, Periyakuppam, Tiruvallur - 602 001
The District Collector, Tiruvallur District presided over the entire Public Hearing
proceedings and welcomed the Government Officials, Elected Representatives of the
proposed project and public to the public Hearing for the proposed Black Granite Mining
in an extent of 16.95.00 ha at S.F.No. 189(part) of Mylarwada Village, Pallipattu Taluk,
Tiruvallur District, Tamil Nadu.
Further, the District Collector has requested the project proponents to describe in detail
about the activities of the proposed Black Granite Mining in an extent of 16.95.00 ha,
environmental issues, the District Collected has requested the public to raise the doubts
and record their views about this proposed activity, environmental impacts of the
proposed activity and the mitigation measures to be adopted to protect the environment.
The copy of the “Proceedings of Public Hearing” and the copy of the compliance status
against the issues raised by the participants and responded by the representative of the
applicant during the public hearing are enclosed as Annexure - VI. Photographs of the
public hearing are presented in Figure-7.1.
118
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
FIGURE - 7.1 : PUBLIC HEARING PHOTOS
119
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
7.2 Mine Closure Plan
The mine closure plan has been prepared with clearly defined future land use for the
area. The plan for final year is shown in Figure-7.2. The objectives of mine closure
planning are as follows:
• To alleviate or eliminate environmental damage and thereby encourage
environmental sustainability;
• To protect public health and safety
• To minimize adverse socio-economic impacts.
7.2.1 Various Aspects of Mine Closure Planning
The mine closure planning broadly involves the following aspects:
(a) Technical aspects;
(b) Environmental aspects;
(c) Social aspects;
(d) Financial aspects.
7.2.2 Reason for Closure
The closure of the mine is planned only after exhaustion of economically recoverable /
extractable black granite reserve in lease holds area, after 30 years of mine operations
from now. However, the activities related to the Progressive Mine Closure, including
various land use activities, are being planned to be undertaken continuously and
sequentially during the entire period of the mining operation.
However, if in future any such directive or orders are received for temporary or
permanent closure of mine; appropriate action shall be taken to undertake closure of the
mine.
120
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
121
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
122
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
FIGURE - 7.2: MINE CLOSURE PLAN FINAL YEAR
123
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
7.2.3 Water Quality Management
Surface Water
Garland drains will be provided all along the periphery of the mining pit and along the
toes of the OB dumps. These drains will be aligned in such a way that all the surface
drainage water will be carried away from the mining zone to settling tanks.
The mining pit’s catchment water is & will be coursed to the main sump and used for
dust suppression and green belt development & plantation activities.
Ground Water
Dug wells constructed in the region indicated availability of water at depths between 15
to 20 m from ground level. The average water level fluctuations between pre-monsoon
and monsoon season is around 1.5 m and the gradient of water table normally follows
the surface slope and is from west to east directions.
The ground water quality in the region indicates neutral range with pH values ranging
from 7.6 to 8.31. Most of the analytical results for ground and surface water showed
parameter concentrations well within the permissible limits.
Mines Seepage Water
The experience of mining during past three years suggests a very little, almost negligible
seepage of water in the mining pit. It will be collected in a well guarded pond / sump for
settling of solids. The treated water is and will be used for dust suppression on working
faces, haul roads and dump surfaces.
7.2.4 Air Quality Management
Five ambient air quality monitoring stations are established within the ML area where
from air samples are collected every month and analyzed for PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NOX.
The monitoring system will be continued to ensure the air quality. Table 7.2 shows the
ambient air quality of three month as observed at different locations.
124
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
TABLE – 7.4: AMBIENT AIR QUALITY RESULTS
Code Location
PM10 PM 2.5 SO2 NOX
Min Max Avg 98
Per Min Max Avg
98
Per Min Max Avg
98
Per Min Max Avg
98
Per
AAQ1 Project Site (Mylarwada) 45 56 50.8 55.7 19 27 23.1 26.8 5.1 5.4 5.2 5.3 8.1 9.6 8.8 9.4
AAQ2 Katharikuppam 43 60 51.6 59.5 21 28 24.5 27.7 5.0 5.6 5.3 5.5 9.3 10.8 10.1 10.7
AAQ3 Vasur 47 63 54.8 62.6 17 26 21.7 25.8 5.0 5.5 5.3 5.4 9.7 11.3 10.5 11.1
AAQ4 Pendadi 40 53 46.3 52.7 16 24 20.1 23.7 5.0 5.4 5.2 5.3 8.1 9.4 8.7 9.3
AAQ5 Peddaramapuram 44 58 51.3 57.6 18 27 22.2 26.4 5.1 5.6 5.3 5.5 9.4 11.6 10.5 11.4
AAQ6 Meesarakandapuram 48 65 56.9 64.8 20 29 24.6 28.4 5.3 6.1 5.7 6.0 10.3 13.4 11.8 13.2
** All values are expressed in µg/m3
The following precautions have been considered for abatement of air pollution in the
black granite mine area:
Water sprinkling shall be carried out at the active working faces, on all haul-roads
and the dump surfaces, deploying six to seven tankers of 10 to 15 m3 capacities
each in all working shifts.
Regular cleaning and removal of spillage black granite from haul roads and
weighbridge areas.
Proper and regular maintenance of mining equipments.
Development of comprehensive green belt around overburden dumps to reduce
fugitive dust emissions in order to create clean and healthy environment.
7.2.5 Solid Waste management
As is stated earlier, mining is being carried out by semi-mechanized opencast method
using conventional mining equipments i.e. hydraulic excavators / shovels and dumpers
combination with ancillary mining equipment like motor grader, dozer, water sprinkler
etc.
The mine waste in the mine includes the over lain unrecoverable boulders / rock
fragments and rubbles generated as granite rejects during the production works and the
waste fragments generated during development works will be utilized for forming
approach road and dumping yard purposes.
125
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Adequate space has been identified within the lease applied area for dumping such waste
material on barren land covered with soil. The 7.5 m safety distance as well as the
defective portion of the deposit may also be used for waste dumping purpose.
Stabilization of Dumps
As the waste generation in the mine includes hard rock fragments of considerable size
and irregular shape with varying angularity, the waste dump will be stable on its own
even at higher slopes of the sides. However, suitable variety of soil will be identified and
brought from outside and used for increasing the stability of the sides of the waste
dumps and also for planting trees over the dumps in a phased manner.
7.2.6 Top soil management
Topsoil will be properly stacked at earmarked dump site with adequate measures. It will
be used for growing plants along the fringes of the site roads and reclamation of external
dump and backfilled area. The topsoil stockpiles will be low height and will be grassed to
retain fertility. Besides these topsoil stacks there will be temporary stacks near the
excavation area and area to be reclaimed which will be made use of for concurrent laying
without bringing the topsoil to the soil stack near the OB dump.
Disposal of Mining Machinery
Mining operations are planned to be outsourced with the agency bringing its own
machinery. On completion of mining operations the contractors will remove their
machinery and take them away.
There is some departmental mining machinery owned by the Company. These
machineries are written off and disposed on completion of their normal life as per the set
guidelines. The surplus machinery in working order, will be transferred to Company’s
other projects.
Workshops are owned and maintained by the Company as well as by the Contractors for
carrying out repairs & maintenance of machinery. These will be dismantled. The
contractors will take away their material & equipment whereas the departmental
material & equipment will be shifted to other mines.
126
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
7.2.7 Other Infrastructure
Mine office, store room, first-aid room etc, will be provided on semi-permanent
structures within the lease applied area.
7.2.8 Safety & Security
The water ponds developed in the reclaimed areas shall be properly fenced for safety.
The water from these ponds is likely to be potable and shall used for human & cattle
consumption and for agriculture purposes.
7.2.9 Economic Repercussions of closure of Mine and Manpower Retrenchments
7.2.9.1 Manpower
Since the mining and the Pyrite Separation activities are proposed to be outsourced,
most of the manpower will be deployed through these contract agencies. The
management & statutory supervisory manpower are proposed to be deployed by the
Company. In addition, some departmental machinery area also maintained at the site to
supplement the operations. Effectively the overall employment of manpower at the mine
site is discussed in detail in earlier chapters and is summarized below:
On completion of mining operations, the departmental manpower, irrespective of local
or otherwise, will be transferred to other mines of the company as per the terms and
conditions of their services. The contractors will also remove their manpower and would
utilize their services at their other assignments.
Most of the local persons have agriculture occupation in their background. There is every
possibility of their joining the family occupation back. There is no possibility of
retrenchment of any departmental worker.
In addition, as a part of the final mine closure, the company is proposing afforestation,
development of agriculture and fruit farming, fisheries etc in the reclaimed area on
cooperative basis providing self-employment opportunities for the local population. This
shall ensure sustenance of local workers, who might opt for VRS, their families and other
local population.
127
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
7.2.10 Time Schedule of Abandonment
The time scheduling for the rehabilitation of the land will mostly depend upon the
availability of the reclaimed land. Keeping the scheduling of the conceptual mining plan
these activities will be planned.
7.2.11 Responsibility of Mine Owner
An undertaking from the Managing Director of the Company, as the nominated Owner of
the Mine, assuring that the protective measures contained in the mine closure plan
including reclamation works will be carried out in accordance with the approved Mine
Closure Plan.
7.2.12 Provision for Mine Closure
The Company shall obtain, on completion of the mining operations, a mine closure
certificate from the Coal Controller to the effect that the protective, reclamation works in
accordance with the approved mine closure plan / final mine closure plan have been
carried out by the mine owner for surrendering the reclaimed land to the State
Government.
7.3 Occupational Health and Safety
For large industries, where multifarious activities are involved during construction,
erection, testing, commissioning, operation and maintenance; the men, materials and
machines are the basic inputs. Along with the boons, industrialization generally brings
several problems like occupational health and safety.
The industrial planner, therefore, has to properly plan and take steps to minimize the
impacts of industrialization and to ensure appropriate occupational health and safety
including fire plans. All these activities again may be classified under construction and
erection, and operation and maintenance.
7.3.1 Occupational Health
Occupational health needs attention during construction, erection, operation, maintenance,
and mine decommissioning phases. However, the problem varies both in magnitude and
type in these phases.
128
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Construction and Erection
The occupational health problems envisaged at this stage can mainly be due to
constructional accident and noise. To overcome these hazards, in addition to arrangements
to reduce it within Threshold Limit Values (TLV’s), necessary protective equipment will be
supplied to workers.
Operation and Maintenance
The problem of occupational health, in the operation and maintenance phases is
primarily due to dust and noise which could affect breath and hearing. The necessary
personal protective equipment will be given to all the workers. The working personnel
will be given the following appropriate equipment.
Industrial safety helmet
Crash helmets
Face shield with replacement acrylic vision
Zero power goggles with cut type filters on both sides and blue color glasses
Cylindrical type earplug
Ear muffs
Self contained breathing apparatus
Safety belt/line man's safety belt
Leather hand gloves
Canvas cum leather hand gloves with leather palm
Electrically tested electrical resistance hand gloves
Industrial safety shoes with steel toe
All working personnel will be medically examined as per provisions of the Mines Act.
This will be in addition to the pre-employment medical examination.
7.3.1 Safety Plan
It is envisaged that all safety precautions during the mining operations, posting of
sufficient number of statutory officials and persons, disaster management, etc will be
129
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
undertaken, for which sufficient funds will be provided to deal with all safety provisions.
An effective organization of the mine will be prepared.
Mining is a hazardous industry and hence, necessary measures will be taken to prevent
accident due to following anticipated hazardous/risk prone activities:
Slope failure
Handling of explosives
Fly-rocks during blasting
Inundation due to surface water
Dust hazards
Fire hazards due to spontaneous heating of black granite
Hazards associated with use of electricity
Flooding of lower benches
7.3.1.1 Statutory Rules
All applicable statutory rules, regulations, bye-laws etc and statutory requirement
related to Govt. licenses, workers compensation, insurance, etc, including the Minimum
Wage Act for workers employed by the outside agency will have to be adhered to. Any
other rule imposed by local/state/central authorities will also be complied by user of
equipment and then will have to supply various protective equipment viz. helmets,
shoes, safety gear for welding, working at height, electrical apparatus handling, etc. to
the workmen at their cost. It is recommended that code of practice to be prepared based
on the following:
Coal Mines Regulation 1957
Mines Act 1952
Mines Rules 1966
EPA, 1986
FCA, 1980
The Water Act, 1974
The Air Act, 1981
Vocational Training Rules 1966
Indian Electricity Rules 1956
130
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
DGMS circulars from 1948 upto date
Factories Act 1948 (as applicable to mines)
Conditions attached to statutory permissions and exemptions granted by DGMS to Mines
of CIL recommendations of National Safety Conferences, Tripartite Safety Review
Committees. Special guidelines issued by CIL/ DGMS following accident enquiries etc.
ILO code of Safety and Health and in opencast Mines (1991) Special conditions as may be
imposed while execution of lease deed, approval of mining plan, directives issued by the
Ministry of coal, environmental & forestry clearance conditions imposed by the MOEF,
State Pollution Control Board or by any other regulatory authority organization will be
followed.
7.3.1.2 Safety Aspects for Outsourcing of the HEMM/Equipment and Workers
During quarry operations, it is necessary to adopt suggested mining parameters for the
stability of benches, high-walls and spoil dumps. It is also mandatory to examine
systematically the fencing of mine working, landslides and cracks between benches. It is
required to maintain well graded and wide roads on benches keeping the width of
working areas sufficient for spreading of blasted rock and movement of the mining and
transport equipment.
During actual mining operation, systematic observations and regular monitoring of the
condition of benches, high-wall slopes and spoil dumps will be carried out and the
dimensions will be modified if necessary, to suit the local conditions.
7.3.2.4 Precautions against Danger of Inundation from Surface Water
A careful assessment is to be made against the danger from surface water before the
onset of rainy season. The necessary precautions will be clearly laid down and
implemented. A garland drain will be provided to drain away the surface rain water from
coming into the mine. Garland drain will be provided around OB dumps and working
mines to course the rain water to main streams;
• Inspections for any accumulation of rain water, obstruction in normal drainage;
• Standing order for withdrawal of working persons in case of apprehended danger;
• During heavy rain, inspection of vulnerable points is essential. In case of any danger,
persons are to be withdrawn to safer places;
131
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
7.3.2.5 Prevention of Flooding of Equipment Deployed at Bottom Horizons
During the heavy monsoon period, the mining operation in the lower-most benches may
have to be stopped. The water will be pumped out and discharged to the surface sumps.
7.3.2.6 Prevention of Electric Shocks
During mining operations, all the statutory provisions of the Indian Electricity Rules
1956, and Indian Standards for installation and maintenance of electrical equipment etc.
will be observed.
• For protection from electric shocks to persons, from electrical equipment with
voltage up to 1000 v earth leakage relay will be provided which will automatically
disconnect electrical circuits;
• Closed mobile substations and switchgears will be mechanically interlocked which
exclude the possibility of opening the door when oil switch and air circuit breakers
are in operation;
• All metal parts of electrical equipment will be properly earthed to avoid failure of
insulation; and
• All HT lines and cables located within the blasting zones will be disconnected during
blasting operations.
7.3.2.7 Dust Suppression & Dilution of Exhaust Fumes
The following measures will be adopted for dust suppression at all quarry working
places, dump, haul roads and near other auxiliary mining operations:
• Spraying with water on all working faces & haul roads, by special spraying machines
or water-sprinkler;
• While drilling holes, dust extraction devices will be installed;
• Installation of local dust suppression and air conditioning devices in cabins of
excavators and drilling rigs will be required;
• Leveling of spoil dump surface;
• Separate dust suppression arrangement will be provided for PRP;
• To prevent collection of harmful mixtures in the atmosphere, from the different
sections of quarry working, it is recommended;
132
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
• To spread out the sources of dust formation and emission of harmful gases
throughout the working area of the quarry and Blasting operations will be during the
day; and
• Blasting will be delayed during unfavorable wind and atmospheric conditions, if any.
7.3.2.8 Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention
In addition to statutory provisions, the measures for fire fighting and prevention of fires
are as follows:
• Organization of special cell for systematic observation to examine and prevent fire;
• Removal of spillage on benches and cleaning to prevent cases of heating;
• Storage of lubricants and cotton waste in enclosed fire proof containers in working
places; and
• Provision of fire extinguishers and fire tenders.
Emergency organization will be formed to deal with emergency during fire. The
organization will have names of responsible persons along with their telephone
numbers. Their duties will be clearly specified and the persons will be properly trained.
Mock - Rehearsals will be held regularly at an interval of not exceeding six months to
deal with emergencies of fire. A disaster management plan has been prepared and a
Crisis Management Group (CMG) consisting of highly skilled & decision making persons
will be identified within the organization to tackle with such extreme situations.
7.3.2.9 Measures during Drilling and Blasting
Following measures will be taken while drilling and blasting operations in the quarry:
• Drilling and blasting in quarry will be done in accordance with the provisions of the
Mines Act, rules and regulations;
• Adequate safety measures will be taken during blasting operations in the quarry so
that men/machines are not affected;
• Ground vibration due to blasting will be controlled by the following measures:
1. Reducing the explosive charge per delay;
2. Reducing the spacing and burden per blast;
3. Reducing the amount of explosive charged per blast; and
133
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
4. Proper controlled rock movement during blast by using suitable initiating
sequence and delay.
7.4 Risk Assessment and Disaster Management Plan
Hazard analysis involves the identification and quantification of various hazards (unsafe
conditions) that exist in the mines. On the other hand, risk analysis deals with the
identification and quantification of risks, the plant and mining equipment and personnel
are exposed to, due to accidents resulting from the hazards present in the mine.
Risk analysis follows an extensive hazard analysis. It involves the identification and
assessment of risks the neighboring populations are exposed to as a result of hazards
present. This requires a thorough knowledge of failure probability, credible accident
scenario, vulnerability of populations etc. Much of this information is difficult to get or
generate. Consequently, the risk analysis is often confined to maximum credible accident
studies.
In the sections below, the identification of various hazards, probable risks in the mines,
maximum credible accident analysis, and consequence analysis are addressed which gives
a broad identification of risks involved in the mining project. Based on the risk estimation
disaster management plan has been also been presented.
7.4.1 Approach to the Study
Risk involves the occurrence or potential occurrence of some accidents consisting of an
event or sequence of events. The risk assessment study covers the following:
• Identification of potential hazard areas;
• Identification of representative failure cases;
• Visualization of the resulting scenarios in terms of fire (thermal radiation) and
explosion;
• Assess the overall damage potential of the identified hazardous events and the impact
zones from the accidental scenarios;
134
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
• Assess the overall suitability of the site from hazard minimization and disaster
mitigation point of view;
• Furnish specific recommendations on the minimization of the worst accident
possibilities; and
• Preparation of broad DMP, On-site and Off-site Emergency Plan, which includes
Occupational Health and Safety Plan.
The complete mining will be carried out under the management control and direction of
a qualified mine manager holding a first class manager’s certificate of competency.
Moreover, mining staff will be sent to refresher courses from time to time to keep them
alert. However, following natural/industrial hazards may occur during normal
operation:
• Accident due to explosives;
• Accident due to heavy mining equipment; and
In order to take care of above hazard/disasters, the following control measures will be
adopted.
• All safety precautions and provisions of the Mine Act, 1955, the Coal Mines
Regulation, 1957 and the Mines Rules, 1955 will be strictly followed during all
mining operations;
• Entry of unauthorized persons will be prohibited;
• Fire fighting and first-aid provisions in the mines office complex and mining area;
• Provisions of all the safety appliances such as safety boot, helmets, goggles etc. will be
made available to the employees and regular check for their use;
• Training and refresher courses for all the employees working in hazardous premises;
Under mines rules all employees of mines will have to undergo the training at a
regular interval;
• Working of mine, as per approved plans and regularly updating the mine plans;
• Cleaning of mine faces will be regularly done;
• Handling of explosives, charging and blasting will be carried out by competent
persons only;
135
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
• Provision of magazine at a safe place with fencing and necessary security
arrangement;
• Regular maintenance and testing of all mining equipment as per manufacturer’s
guidelines;
• Suppression of dust on the haulage roads;
• Adequate safety equipment will be provided at explosive magazine; and
• Increasing the awareness of safety and disaster through competitions, posters and
other similar drives.
For any type of above disaster, a rescue team will be formed by training the mining staff
with specialized training.
7.4.2 Possible Hazards in Opencast Coal Mines
There are various factors, which can cause disaster in the mine. The mining activity has
several disaster prone areas. The identification of various hazards is shown in Figure-
7.3 and the hazards are discussed below.
7.4.2.1 Blasting
Most of the accidents from blasting occur due to the projectiles, as they may sometimes
go even beyond the danger zone, mainly due to overcharging of the shot-holes as a result
of certain special features of the local ground. Flying rocks are encountered during initial
and final blasting operations. Vibrations also lead to displacement of adjoining areas.
Dust and noise are also problems commonly encountered during blasting operations.
7.4.2.2 Overburden
The overburden dump may cause landslides. High overburden dump created at the
quarry edge may cause sliding of the overburden dump or may cause failure of the pit
slope due to excessive loading, thereby causing loss of life and property.
7.4.2.3 Heavy Machinery
Most of the accidents during transport of dumpers, trucks and ripper dozers and other
heavy vehicles are often attributable to mechanical failures and human errors.
7.4.2.4 Storage of Explosives
136
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
The main hazard associated with the storage, transport and handling of explosives is fire
and explosion. The rules as per the Indian Explosives Act and Rules 1883 should be
followed for handling of explosives, which includes transportation, storage and use of
explosives.
7.4.2.6 Water Logging
Water logging in the mine site can be avoided by adopting following measures:
• Position of water body should be correctly known; and
• Draining of mine water by suitable capacity pumps.
FIGURE-7.3: IDENTIFICATION OF HAZARDS IN OPENCAST MINE
Safety Measures at the Mine site
• Adequate care has been taken in deciding the size of the bench for the working as
well as ultimate pit.
• The benches are properly sloped at an angle of 70 degree to avoid any spillage of
benches.
• Adequate drainage system at the top of the pit and also on the benches shall be made
to prevent erosion of the benches.
137
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
• The quarries will be protected by garland drains around the periphery for storm
water drainage.
Precautionary Measures to Avoid Accidents Due to Blasting:
• The provisions laid down in the Coal Mine Regulation, 1957 related to Blasting shall
strictly be followed. However some of the main provisions are written here-
• Shots shall not be fired except during the hours of daylight. The holes charged on any
particular day shall be fired on the same day.
• Adequate blasting shelters or other protection shall be provided at mines.
• The shot-firer shall give sufficient warning by effective signals over the entire area
falling within a radius of danger zone.
• Multi-shot exploder shall be used. A shot-firer will fire maximum 120 Shots.
• During the approach and progress of electrical storm, adequate precautions shall be
taken.
Precautionary Measures to Prevent Accidents due to Trucks and Dumpers:
• All transportation within the main working shall be carried out directly under the
supervision and control of the management.
• The vehicles must be maintained in good repairs and checked thoroughly at least
once a week by the competent person authorized for the purpose by the
Management.
• Road signs shall be provided at each and every turning point especially for the
guidance of the drivers at the night.
• To avoid danger while reversing the trackless vehicles especially at the embankment
and tipping points, all areas for reversing of lorries should as far as possible be made
man free.
• A statutory provision of the fences, constant education, training etc. will go a long
way in reducing the incidents of such accidents.
• Generally, oversize rocks shall be dealt with in the pit by secondary blasting.
However, for haul trucks at the dump with such oversize materials, the following
recommendations are given.
138
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
a. Load consisting of large rocks must not be over the edge. This is unsafe and may
damage equipment.
b. Such load must be inside.
• Dumping of overburden or waste material by dumpers and dozers will be governed
by Code of Dumping, which is already formulated & implemented.
• The movement of the dumpers will be governed under the Code of Traffic rule which
is already formulated & implemented.
7.4.3 Disaster Management Plan
The disaster management plan is aimed to ensure safety of life, protection of
environment, protection of installation, restoration of production and salvage operations
in this same order of priorities. For effective implementation of the disaster management
plan, it should be widely circulated and personnel training through rehearsals/drills. The
objective of the disaster management plan is to make use of the combined resources of
the mining operation and the outside services to achieve the following:
Effect the rescue and medical treatment of casualties
Safeguard other people
Minimize damage to property and the environment
Initially contain and ultimately bring the incident under control
Identify any dead
Provide for the needs of relatives
Provide authoritative information to the news media
Secure the safe rehabilitation of affected area
Preserve relevant records and equipment for the subsequent inquiry into the
cause and circumstances of the emergency
In effect, it is to optimize operational efficiency to rescue rehabilitation and
render medical help and to restore normalcy.
Emergency Organization (EO)
It is recommended to setup an emergency organization. A senior executive (Mine
Manager) who has control over the affairs of the mine would be heading the emergency
organization. He would be designated as site controller. As per the general organization
139
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
chart, in the mines, the mines manager would be designated as the Incident Controller
(IC). The incident controller would be reporting to the site controller.
Each incident controller, for himself, organizes a team responsible for controlling the
incidence with the personnel under his control. Shift In-charge would be the reporting
officer, who would bring the incidence to the notice of the incidence controller and site
controller.
Emergency coordinators would be appointed who would undertake the responsibilities
like fire fighting, rescue, rehabilitation, transport and provide essential and support
services. For this purposes, Security in-charge, personnel department, essential services
personnel would be engaged. All these personnel would be designated as key personnel.
In each shift, electrical supervisor, electrical fitters, pump house in-charge and other
maintenance staff would be drafted for emergency operations. In the event of power or
communication system failure, some of staff members in the mine offices would be
drafted and their services would be utilized as messengers for quick passing of
communications. All these personnel would be declared as essential personnel.
Emergency Communication (EC)
Whoever notices an emergency situation such as fire, growth of fire etc. would inform his
immediate superior and Emergency Control Centre (ECC). The person on duty in the
emergency control centre would appraise the site controller. Site Controller verifies the
situation from the incident controller of that area or the Shift In-charge and takes a
decision about an impending on site emergency. This would be communicated to the
entire incident controllers, emergency coordinators. Simultaneously, the emergency
warning system would be activated on the instructions of the site controller.
Emergency Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the key personnel are appended below:
Site Controller
140
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
On receiving information about emergency he would rush to emergency control centre
and take charge of ECC (Emergency Control Centre) and the situations which all are
given below:
Assesses the magnitude of the situation on the advice of incident controller and
decides
Whether the affected area needs to be evacuated
Whether personnel who are at assembly points need to be evacuated
Declares Emergency and orders for operation of emergency siren
Organizes announcement by public address system about location of emergency
Assesses which areas are likely to be affected, or need to be evacuated or are to be
alerted
Maintains a continuous review of possible development and assesses the
situation in consultation with Incident Controller and other Key Personnel as to
whether shutting the mine operation required and if evacuation of persons is
required
Directs personnel for Rescue, rehabilitation, transport, fire, brigade, medical and
other designated mutual support systems locally available, for meeting
emergencies
Controls evacuation of affected areas, if the situation is likely to go out of control
or effects are likely to go beyond the mine boundary, informs to District
Emergency Authority, Police, Hospital and seeks their intervention and help
Informs the statutory authorities
Gives a public statement if necessary
Keeps record of chronological events and prepares an investigation report and
preserves evidence
On completion of On Site Emergency and restoration of normalcy, declares all
clear and orders for all clear warning.
Incident Controller
Assembles the incident control team
141
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Directs operations within the affected areas with the priorities for safety to
personnel, minimize damage to property and environment and minimize the loss
of materials
Directs the shutting down the operations and areas likely to be adversely affected
by the emergency
Ensures that all key personnel help is sought
Provides advice and information to the Fire and Security Officer and the Local
Fire Services as and when they arrive
Ensures that all non-essential workers/staff of the affected areas evacuated to the
appropriate assembly points, and the areas are searched for causalities
Has regard to the need for preservation of evidence so as to facilitate any inquiry
into the cause and circumstances which caused or escalated the emergency
Co-ordinates with emergency services at the site
Provides tools and safety equipment to the team members
Keeps in touch with the team and advise them regarding the method of control to
be used
Keeps the Site Controller of Emergency informed of the progress being made
Emergency Coordinator - Rescue, Fire Fighting
On knowing about emergency, rushes to ECC
Helps the incident Controller in containment of the emergency
Ensure fire pumps in operating conditions and instructs pump house operator to
ready for any emergency with standby arrangement
Guides the fire fighting crew i.e. firemen, trained mine personnel and security
staff
Organizes shifting the fire fighting facilities to the emergency site, if required
Takes guidance of the Incident Controller for firefighting as well as assesses the
requirements of outside help
Arranges to control the traffic at the incident area
Directs the security staff to the incident site to take part in the emergency
operations under his guidance and supervision
142
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Evacuates the people in the mine or in the nearby areas as advised by Site
Controller
Searches for casualties and arranges proper aid for them
Assembles search and evacuation team
Arranges for safety equipment for the members of this team
Decides which paths the evacuated workers should follow
Maintains law and order in the area, and if necessary seeks the help of police.
Emergency Coordinator - Medical, Mutual Aid, Rehabilitation, Transport and
Communication
In the event of failure of electric supply and thereby internal telephone, sets up
communication point and establishes contact with the Emergency Control Centre (ECC).
Organizes medical treatment to the injured and if necessary will shift the injured
to nearby hospitals
Mobilizes extra medical help from outside, if necessary
Keeps a list of qualified first aiders of the factory and seek their assistance
Maintains first aid and medical emergency requirements
Makes sure that all safety equipment are made available to the emergency team
Assists Site Controller with necessary data and to coordinate the emergency
activities
Assists Site Controller in updating emergency plan, organizing mock drills
verification of inventory of emergency facilities and furnishing report to Site
Controller
Maintains liaison with Civil Administration
Ensure availability of canteen facilities and maintenance of rehabilitation centre
Liaison with Site Controller/Incident Controller
Ensure transportation facility
Ensures availability of necessary cash for rescue/rehabilitation and emergency
expenditure
Controls rehabilitation of affected areas on discontinuation of emergency
Makes available diesel/petrol for transport vehicles engaged in emergency
operation.
143
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Emergency Coordinator - Essential Services
He would assist Site Controller and Incident Controller
Maintains essential services like Diesel Generator, Water, Fire Water, power
supply for lighting
Gives necessary instructions regarding emergency electrical supply, isolation of
certain sections etc. to shift in-charge and electricians
Ensures availability of adequate quantities of protective equipment and other
emergency materials, spares etc.
General Responsibilities of Employees during an Emergency
During an emergency, it becomes more enhanced and pronounced when an emergency
warning is raised, the workers in-charge, should adopt safe and emergency shut down
and attend any prescribed duty as essential employee. If no such responsibility is
assigned, he should adopt a safe course to assembly point and await instructions. He
should not resort to spread panic.
7.4.4 Emergency Facilities
Emergency Control Centre (ECC)
For the time being, Mine Office Block is identified as Emergency Control Centre. It would
have external Telephone, Fax, and Telex facility. All the Site Controller/ Incident
Controller Officers, Senior Personnel would be located here. Also, it would be an elevated
place.
The following information and equipment are to be provided at the Emergency Control
Centre (ECC):
Intercom, telephone
P & T telephone
Safe contained breathing apparatus
Fire suit / gas tight goggles / gloves / helmets
Hand tools, wind direction/velocities indications
Public address megaphone, hand bell, telephone directories
144
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Internal P & T, factory layout, site plan
Emergency lamp/torch light/batteries
Plan indicating locations of hazard inventories, sources of safety equipment, work
road plan, assembly points, rescue location vulnerable zones, escape routes;
Hazard chart
Emergency shut-down procedures
Nominal roll of employees
List of key personnel, list of essential employees, list of Emergency Co-ordinators
Duties of key personnel
Address with telephone numbers and key personnel, emergency coordinator,
essential employees
Important address and telephone numbers including Government agencies,
neighboring industries and sources of help, outside experts, population details
around the Mine.
Assembly Point
Numbers of assembly points are already provided wherein employees who are not
directly connected with the disaster management would be assembled for safety and
rescue. Emergency breathing apparatus, minimum facilities like water etc. would be
organized.
In view of the size of mine pit area, different locations should be ear marked as assembly
points. Depending upon the location of hazard, the assembly points are to be used.
Fire Fighting Facilities
First aid firefighting equipment suitable for emergency is being maintained in each
operation areas of the mine as per statutory requirements.
Location of Wind Sock
On the top of the administration block, windsock is installed to indicate direction of wind
for emergency escape.
Emergency Medical Facilities
145
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Stretchers, gas masks and general first aid materials for dealing with chemical burns, fire
burns etc. are being maintained in the medical centre as well as in the emergency control
room. Private medical practitioners help is being sought during emergencies.
Government hospital would be approached for emergency help.
Names of medical personnel, medical facilities in the area are prepared and displayed.
Necessary specific medicines for emergency treatment of burns patients and for those
affected by toxicity would be maintained.
Breathing apparatus and other emergency medical equipment are provided and
maintained. The help of nearby industrial management’s in this regard would take on
mutual support basis.
Ambulance
An ambulance with driver availability in all the shifts, emergency shift vehicle is ensured
and maintained to transport injured or affected persons. Number of persons is trained in
first aid so that, in every shift first aid personnel would be available.
7.4.5 Emergency Actions
Emergency Warning
Communication of emergency is made familiar to the personnel inside the mine and
people outside. An emergency warning system is also established.
Evacuation of Personnel
In the event of an emergency, unconnected personnel have to escape to assembly point.
Operators have to take emergency shutdown procedure and escape. Time Office
maintains a copy of deployment of employees in each shift. If necessary, persons can be
evacuated by rescue teams.
All Clear Signal
Also, at the end of an emergency, after discussing with Incident Controllers and
Emergency Co-ordinators, the Site Controller orders an all clear signal. When it becomes
essential, the site controller communicates to the district emergency authority, police
146
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
and fire service personnel regarding help required or development of the situation into
an Off-Site Emergency.
Employee Information
During an emergency, employees are warned by raising siren in specific pattern.
Employees are provided with information related to fire hazards, antidotes and first aid
measures. Those who would designate as key personnel and essential employees should
be given training to emergency response.
Co-ordination with Local Authorities
Keeping in view of the nature of emergency, two levels of coordination are practiced. In
the case of an On Site Emergency, resources within the organization would be mobilized
and in the event extreme emergency local authorities help should be sought.
In the event of an emergency developing into an off site emergency, local authority and
District emergency Authority (normally the Collector) would be appraised and under his
supervision, the Off Site Disaster Management Plan would be exercised. For this purpose,
the facilities that are available locally, i.e. medical, transport, personnel, rescue
accommodation, voluntary organizations etc. would be mustered. Necessary rehearsals
and training in the form of mock drills should be organized.
Mutual Aid
Mutual aid in the form of technical personnel, runners, helpers, special protective
equipment, transport vehicles, communication facility etc. should be sought from the
neighboring industrial management’s.
Mock Drills
Emergency preparedness is an important aspect of planning in Industrial Disaster
Management. Personnel’s trained suitably and prepared mentally and physically in
emergency response through carefully planned, simulated procedures. Similarly, the key
personnel and essential personnel should be trained in the operations.
Important Information
147
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Important information such names and addresses of key personnel, essential employees,
medical personnel, transporters address, address of those connected with Off Site
Emergency such as Police, Local Authorities, Fire Services, District Emergency Authority
are prepared and maintained
7.4.6 Off-Site Emergency Preparedness Plan
The task of preparing the off-site emergency plan lies with the district collector.
However, the off-site plan will be prepared with the help of the local district authorities.
The proposed plan will be based on the following guidelines.
Aspects Proposed to be considered in the Off-Site Emergency Plan
The main aspects which should be included in the emergency plan are:
Organization
Details of command structure, warning systems, implementation procedures, emergency
control centers, names and appointments of incident controller, site main controller,
their deputies and other key personnel.
Communications
Identification of personnel involved, communication centre, call signs, network, lists of
telephone numbers.
Specialized Knowledge
Details of specialist bodies, firms and people upon whom it may be necessary to call e.g.
those with specialized knowledge of fire control.
Voluntary Organizations
Details of organizers, telephone numbers, resources etc.
Chemical Information
Details of the hazardous substances stored or procedure on each site and a summary of
the risk associated with them.
148
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Meteorological Information
Arrangements for obtaining details of whether conditions prevailing at the time and
whether forecasts.
Humanitarian Arrangements
Transport, evacuation centres, emergency feeding treatment of injured, first aid,
ambulances, temporary mortuaries.
Public Information
Arrangements for dealing with the media press office; b] informing relatives, etc.
Assessment
Arrangements for: (a) collecting information on the causes of the emergency; (b)
reviewing the efficiency and effectiveness of all aspects of the emergency plan.
Role of the Emergency Coordinating Officer
The various emergency services should be coordinated by an emergency coordinating
officer (ECO), who will be designated by the district collector. The ECO should liaise
closely with the site main controller. The ECO should inform the DGMS authorities in
case of accidents as per the statutory requirement. Again depending on local
arrangements, for very severe incidents/accidents with major or prolonged off-site
consequences, the external control should be passed to a senior local authority
administrator or even an administrator appointed by the central or state government.
Role of the Local Authority
The duty to prepare the off-site plan lies with the local authorities. The emergency
planning officer (EPO) appointed should carry out his duty in preparing for a whole
range of different emergencies within the local authority area. The EPO should liaise
with the works, to obtain the information to provide the basis for the plan. This liaison
should ensure that the plan is continually kept upto date.
149
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
It will be the responsibility of the EPO to ensure that all those organizations which will
be involved off site in handling the emergency, know of their role and are able to accept
it by having for example, sufficient staff and appropriate equipment to cover their
particular responsibilities. Rehearsals for off-site plans should be organized by the EPO.
Role of Police
Formal duties of the police during an emergency include protecting life and property and
controlling traffic movements. Their functions should include controlling bystanders
evacuating the public, identifying the dead and dealing with casualties, and informing
relatives of death or injury.
Role of Fire Authorities
The control of a fire should be normally the responsibility of the senior fire brigade
officer who would take over the handling of the fire from the site incident controller on
arrival at the site. The senior fire brigade officer should also have a similar responsibility
for other events, such as explosions. Fire authorities in the region should be apprised
about the location of all stores of flammable materials, water supply points and fire-
fighting equipment. They should be involved in on-site emergency rehearsals both as
participants and, on occasion, as observers of exercises involving only site personnel.
Role of Health Authorities
Health authorities, including doctors, surgeons, hospitals, ambulances, and so on, should
have a vital part to play following a major accident, and they should form an integral part
of the emergency plan.
For major fires, injuries should be the result of the effects of thermal radiation to a
varying degree, and the knowledge and experience to handle this in all but extreme cases
may be generally available in most hospitals.
Major off-site incidents are likely to require medical equipment and facilities additional
to those available locally, and a medical “mutual aid “scheme should exist to enable the
assistance of neighboring authorities to be obtained in the event of an emergency.
150
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Role of Government Safety Authority
This will be the factory inspectorate available in the region. Inspectors are likely to want
to satisfy themselves that the organization responsible for producing the off-site plan has
made adequate arrangements for handling emergencies of all types including major
emergencies. They may wish to see well documented procedures and evidence of
exercise undertaken to test the plan.
In the event of an accident, local arrangements regarding the role of the factory inspector
will apply. These may vary from keeping a watching brief to a close involvement in
advising on operations in case involvement in advising on operations.
7.5 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
All developmental works needs to be carried out keeping in mind the potential needs of
the local people of the area. Under all circumstances, the needs (economic, social and
cultural) of the local people have to be properly and adequately addressed.
Socio-economic profile of the study area revealed that mining and associated sector
would be major source of employment. Local people would be benefited by increase in
business in various sectors like transportation, trade and commerce, automobile,
afforestation, excavation of pond etc. It is expected that there will be significant
improvement of standard of living due to proposed facilities provided by TAMIN in the
fields of infrastructure, communication, education, health and medicine and economy
through employment during mining activities. The response of surrounding local people
towards mining project is positive.
151
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-8 PROJECT BENEFITS
8. PROJECT BENEFITS
Any industrial activity will help in improving the socio-economic benefits in areas like
employment, communication and infrastructure development etc.
8.1 Improvement in the Physical Infrastructure
The impact on the civic amenities will be substantial after increasing the mining capacity.
The basic requirement of the community needs will be strengthened by extending
agricultural oriented infrastructure, health care and educational facilities to the
community, besides providing drinking water to the villages and building /
strengthening of existing roads in the area. Medical facilities will also be available in the
form of dispensary at the mine. This will help in uplifting the living standards of local
communities.
The roads connectivity to the project area will enhance overall transportation facilities.
With improved transportation facilities, there is always a scope for development. The
communication facilities will improve after the commencement of the project.
8.2 Improvement in the Social Infrastructure
• Generation of employment and improved standard of living;
• Establishment of small and medium scale engineering ancillaries;
• Increased revenue to the State by way of royalty, taxes and duties; and
• Superior communication and transport facilities etc.
In addition to above, due to increase in purchasing power of local habitants:
• There will be significant change in the socio-economic scenario of the area.
• The proposed project will enhance the prospects of employment. Recruitment for the
unskilled and semiskilled workers for the proposed project will be from the nearby
villages depending upon their qualification and suitability for job.
• The development of the basic amenities viz. roads, transportation, electricity,
drinking water, proper sanitation, educational institutions, medical facilities,
entertainment, etc. will be developed as far as possible.
• Overall the proposed project will change living standards of the people and improve
the socio-economic conditions of the area.
153
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-8 PROJECT BENEFITS
8.3 Employment Potential
The impact of proposed mine on the economic aspects can be clearly observed. The
proposed activities will provide employment to persons of different skills. The local
population will have preference to get an employment. The employment potential will
improve economic conditions of these families directly and provide employment to
many other families indirectly who are involved in business and service oriented
activities.
The employment of local people in primary and secondary sectors of project will
upgrade the prosperity of the region. These will in-turn improves the socio-economic
conditions of the area. The total manpower required for the proposed mining project
under various categories will be mainly sourced from local community in and around
mining project and technical persons will be employed during operational phase from
local and also from outside area. In addition to the above, contractual labour and indirect
employment opportunities will also be getting benefited after commissioning of mining
and washery project.
154
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ADMINISTRATIVE ASPECTS
9. ADMINISTRATIVE ASPECTS
9.1 Environment Protection and Conservation
The mine is being supervised and controlled by an independent Mines Manager
supported by a dedicated team of technically and statutorily qualified personnel apart
from the operating staff of skilled, semi skilled, unskilled and other categories.
9.1.1 Environmental Department
A separate Environment Department with qualified staff along with supervisors, helpers,
water sprinklers and gardeners, etc will be worked for the proposed project. The general
manager will be responsible for the environment management activities at the mine.
The department consisting of officers from various disciplines to co-ordinate the
activities concerned with the management and implementation of the environmental
control measures. The Hierarchical System of the Company to deal with Environmental
issues is shown in Figure - 9.1.
i) Collecting & analyzing water and air samples;
ii) Ambient noise level monitoring;
iii) Implementing the control and protective measures;
iv) Green belt development and inventory of flora and fauna;
v) Collecting statistics of health of workers;
vi) Monitoring the progress of implementation of environmental management
programme; and
vii) Coordinating the environment related activities within the project as well as
with regulatory agencies.
In case the monitored results of environmental pollution are found to exceed the
allowable limits, the Environmental Management Cell will suggest remedial actions and
get them implemented to ensure compliance with the prescribed standards.
155
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ADMINISTRATIVE ASPECTS
FIGURE – 9.1: HIERARCHICAL SYSTEM OF THE COMPANY TO DEAL WITH
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CHAIRMAN AND MANAGING DIRECTORS
GENERAL MANAGER
GENERAL MANAGER (FINANCE)
DEPUTY MANAGER
MANAGER
ASSISTANT MANAGER
MINES MANAGER
MINES GEOLOGY
MINING MATE
MINES FOREMAN
PROJECT SITE OFFICE
156
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER - 10 SUMMARY & CONCLUSION
10. SUMMARY & CONCLUSION
10.1 Summary
The summary of anticipated adverse environmental impacts and mitigation measures are
given in Table 10.1.
10.2 Conclusion
The opencast black granite mine project will have impacts on the local environment.
With the effective implementation of the environment management measures as
suggested in the EIA/EMP report and as may recommended by SEIAA, State Pollution
Control Board, the negative impacts will be minimized to a great extent. However,
development of this project has beneficial impact/effects in terms growth in regional
economy, transform the region's economy from predominantly agricultural to
significantly industrial, increase Government earnings and revenues and accelerate the
pace of industrial development in the region including significant improvement in the
quantity of life of people in the region.
The proposed project will provide direct employment to local people meeting the project
requirement. This project will also generate indirect employment to a considerable
number of families, who will render their services for the employees of the project.
The project will also encourage ancillary industries in the region, which will not only
increase the employment potential but also the economic base of the region will be
further strengthened.
Thus, in view of considerable benefits from the project, the proposed project is most
advantageous to the region as well as to the nation.
157
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
TABLE-10.1 : ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION
Environmental Component
Project Activities Impacts Adverse / Beneficial
Mitigative Measures
Air Quality Drilling and Blasting Particulate matter and NOx
Adverse Use of dust aprons on drilling equipment and adopting wet drilling methods.
Delay blasting under unfavourable wind and atmospheric conditions
The production of blast fumes containing noxious gases will be reduced by the following methods:
Proper and proportionate mixing of fuel oil with ammonium nitrate to ensure complete detonation
Use of adequate booster/primer
Proper stemming of the blast hole.
Drills fitted with dust collection system to be deployed or using wet drilling method.
Development of greenbelt.
Overburden removal, extraction of lignite, Loading / unloading of overburden and lignite, stock piling of
Increase in SPM levels in ambient air due to dust generation and NOx, HC & SO2 CO
Adverse Sprinkling of water on haul roads at regular intervals.
Installing permanent water sprinklers at strategic areas / locations / stretches
158
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
lignite, dumping of overburden at dump sites within ML area
concentration levels in ambient air due to vehicular emissions.
Regular maintenance of vehicles and machinery will be carried out
Cabins for shovel and dumpers and dust respirators to workmen will be provided
Dust suppression will be done on exposed area using water trucks and sprinkler
Greenbelt development will be taken up all along the haul roads
Re-vegetation of mined out area and inactive dumps and
A good housekeeping and proper maintenance will be practiced which will help in controlling pollution.
Transportation of overburden and lignite
-do- Adverse Regular water sprinkling on haul and access roads.
Haul roads to be maintained by surface grading to minimize excessive road surface wearing.
Roads no longer required will be re-vegetated as soon as possible.
General equipment operations
Increase in SPM, NOx and CO concentrations in ambient air.
Adverse Regular maintenance of all equipment to minimize particulate matter and gaseous emissions from diesel driven vehicles & equipment.
159
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
All activities Excessive exposures
to airborne particulate matter.
Adverse Personal protective will be provided to all workers working in dusty environment
Noise Levels and Ground Vibrations
Drilling and Blasting High impulsive noise levels, overpressure and ground vibrations impacts and noise related community annoyance
Adverse Noise Control Measures
Controlled blasting with proper spacing, burden and stemming will be maintained;
No secondary blasting;
Minimum quantity of detonating fuse will be consumed by using alternatively Excel non-electrical initiation system;
The blasting will be carried out during favorable atmospheric condition and less human activity timings;
The prime movers/diesel engines will be properly maintained;
Provision of sound insulated chambers for the workers deployed on machines (HEMM);
Proper designing of plant & machinery by providing inbuilt mechanism like silencers, mufflers and enclosures for noise generating parts and shock absorbing pads at the foundation of vibrating equipment;
Greenbelts around infrastructure site, service building area
General activities including machines and transportation of overburden and lignite within the ML area.
Increase in noise levels occupational hazard due to noise exposures and increase in ambient noise levels.
Adverse
160
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
and township;
A thick tree belt will be provided in phased manner around the periphery of the mine to attenuate noise;
Trees will be planted on both sides of haul roads;
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) like ear muffs/ear plugs will be provided to the operators of HEMM and persons working near HEMM; and
Reducing the exposure time of workers to the higher noise levels.
Measures to Control Ground Vibration
Proper quantity of explosive, suitable stemming materials and appropriate delay system are to be adopted for safe blasting.
Safe blasting zones are kept around the periphery of the quarry
Overcharging will be avoided
The charge per delay will be minimized and preferably more number of delays will be used per blasts
Water Resources and Quality
Working below water table
Reduction in groundwater
Adverse Artificial recharge by rain water harvesting / mine water harvesting will be done in and around the mine area to
161
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
availability
Due to poor aquifer condition the impact on water level will be confined to few hundred.
Deterioration in surface / ground water quality of receiving body.
increase ground water levels.
Mine Drainage
The garland drains will be developed in advance for each mine stage such that water is collected in these garland drains and discharged properly outside the pit.
Working faces will be laid such that the water from the working areas will flow into the sump by gravity from where it will be pumped out to sumps.
Face pumps of adequate capacity will be provided at working faces to keep these dry.
Slurry pumps will be provided to deal with slurry formed during rainy season.
Surface Water Pollution Control Measures
Retaining walls of adequate dimensions will be provided at the toe of dumps and the unstable OB benches within the mine to prevent wash off from dumps and sliding of material from benches. This will help in preventing silting of water drains/channels
The water channels/drains carrying the rain water from the
Water required for mine (dust suppression systems, workshop, domestic facilities and greenbelt development) and domestic consumption at colony
Depletion of natural resource.
Reduction in surface and groundwater availability for domestic and for irrigation purposes.
Changes to
Adverse
162
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
hydraulic regime.
mine will be provided with baffles and settling pits to arrest the suspended solids, if any, present in this water
The worked out slopes will be stabilized by planting appropriate shrub/grass species on the slopes. This will help in preventing wash-off of lignite from these slopes.
The mine water will be regularly tested for presence of any undesirable elements and appropriate measures will be taken in case any element is found exceeding the limits prescribed by GPCB
Ground Water Pollution Control Measures
The domestic sewage from the canteen and toilets will be routed to septic tanks followed by soak pits.
The workshop effluent will be routed through oil & grease trap and treated to the discharge standards and reused in the workshop.
Regular monitoring of water levels and quality in the existing open wells and bore well in the vicinity will be carried out.
Waste water generated from workshop, domestic usage at mine.
Deterioration in ground water and soil quality when used untreated for greenbelt development
Adverse
Drainage pattern and Hydrogeology
Diversion of two four nalas in phases
Catchment area inside the mine will be affected.
Adverse The study has recommended new alignment in line with upstream drainage slope of the area to facilitate smooth entry of water into the diversion channel and ultimate discharge of water into the original stream. No reduction in
163
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
surface run-off is envisaged.
Soil Characteristics
Expansion of Mining operations.
Phased clearing of existing plantations (forest) in the mining area.
Land degradation due to disposal of large volume of waste materials.
Exposure of topsoils to wind and water erosion.
Adverse Vegetation clearance in phases.
Dust suppression on exposed areas using water tankers and automatic sprinkling systems
Contour overburden dump to minimize erosion
Plantation around service building, along road, in & around safety zone using native plant sapling.
Decoaled area backfilling & rehandling of external OB dump as per approved Progressive Mine Closure Plan.
Compliance with mine decommissioning plan.
The following precautions will be taken to reduce the risk of dump failure:
OB benches will be made of <10m height in each tier.
Angle of repose of OB dump to be around 26o.
Construction of toe wall around the OB dump.
Drainage control structures like garland drain to be made around OB dump area to avoid water flow during monsoon below the OB dump.
Leveling, grading and drainage arrangement for top of OB
164
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
dumps.
Technical & biological reclamation.
Topsoil to be stored in small heaps (5m high) at appropriate moisture content with proper vegetation.
Flora and Fauna Mine development and operations
Lignite transportation to end users.
Displacement of existing fauna.
Loss of vegetation
Adverse Besides plantation in the ML area, colony and reclamation of de-coaled area, there will be compensatory afforestation in much bigger area as per norms.
Renovation of ponds;
Construction of check dams and water holes;
Engagement of fire watchers;
Education and training etc.
Logistic support in form of equipment, Vehicles etc as required by the implementing DFO will be extended.
Occupational Health & Safety
Overall Mining operations
Occupational health problems due to dust & noise.
Accident probability due to slope failure, movement of
Adverse Adoption of dust suppression measures like spraying water, use of drill with dust collection system or wet drills etc.
Plantation
Avoid blasting during unfavorable wind & atmospheric conditions
165
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER – 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
HEMM, handling of explosives
Use of personal protective equipment.
Compliance with DGMS circulars
Emergency response plan that includes installation of emergency response equipment to combat events such as fire. All personnel required to handle hazardous materials will be provided with personal protective equipment suitable for the hazardous material being handled.
On-site first aid facilities will be provided and employees will be extended to the local community in emergencies.
Socio-economic Aspects
Mining operations Increase in economic status of local people & in the region due to Increase in employment opportunities both direct and indirect.
Beneficial The project will provide ample opportunity to the local people for direct and in-direct employment. The proposed project may create opportunities for indirect employment in the field of vehicle hiring, labours, trading of construction materials, carpenters etc. The major areas which required immediate attention relates to infrastructure support, health & sanitation, Anganwadi services, school education, youth development, income generation activities & veterinary services.
166
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-11 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS
11. DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS
This chapter presents the details the environmental consultants engaged, their
background and the brief description of the key personnel involved in the project.
11.1 INTRODUCTION
ABC Techno Labs India Private Limited is an ISO 9001, ISO 14001 & OHSAS 18001
Certified Company & leading Environmental Engineering & Consultancy Company. ABC
is the first firm to be accredited by NABET (National Accreditation Board for Education
and Training), Quality Council of India, as an EIA Consultant. ABC is equipped with in-
house, spacious laboratory, accredited by NABL (National Accreditation Board for
Testing & Calibration Laboratories), Department of Science & Technology, Government
of India and MoEFCC under Environmental Protection Act, 1986.
Since establishment our focus is on sustainable development of Industry and
Environment based on sound engineering practices, innovation, quality, R&D and most
important is satisfying customers need. The company has successfully completed more
than 100’s projects of variety of industries, in the field of pollution control. We are also
dealing in the projects of waste minimization and cleaner production technology. Our
team of technocrats and scientists are well experienced to deal with the Designing,
Manufacturing, Fabrication, Installation and Commissioning of Effluent/Wastewater
Treatment Plants, Sewage Treatment Plants, Combined Treatment Plants.
We are having a well experienced team of Scientists & Engineers who are looking after
our well equipped analytical laboratory with a facility including analysis of physical,
chemical and biological parameters as per the requirements of the State Pollution
Control Board and our clients.
Company Address:
ABC TECHNO LABS INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED
No. 2, 2nd Street, Thangam Colony,
Anna Nagar West, Chennai 600 040
Tamil Nadu, India
Ph: + 91 44 2316 1123/24/25 Fax: +91 44 2626 3456
167
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-11 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS
11.2 QUALITY POLICY
Providing high quality consultancy services
Time bound completion of projects and submission of reports.
Employing competent engineers and scientists
Implementing the best available technology
Maintaining a good quality products and public relation practice
Continually improving the effectiveness of Quality Management System
11.3 SERVICES OFFERED
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
Social Impact Assessment (SIA)
Environmental Baseline data collection for Air, Meteorology, Noise, Water, Soil,
Ecology, Socio-Economic and Demography etc;
Environmental Monitoring
Socio Economic Studies
Resettlement & Rehabilitation Plan
Ecological & Human Health Risk Assessment Studies
Ecological Impact Assessment
Environmental Management Framework
Solid Waste Management
Hazardous Waste Management
Internship & Training
TURNKEY PROJECTS
Water Treatment Plants
Sewage Treatment Plant
Recycling & Water Conservation Systems
Zero Discharge System
Operation & Maintenance of Water & Waste Water Plants
168
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-11 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS
Water & Waste Water Treatment Chemicals
Pilot Plant studies
Feasibility studies & preparation of budgetary estimates
MULTILAB DIVISION
Chemical Testing
Environmental Testing
Microbiological Testing
Food Testing
Metallurgical testing
Mechanical Test
Chemical Testing
Corrosion Testing
11.4 SECTORS WE SERVE
Mining of Minerals including Opencast/Underground mining
Thermal Power Plants
Irrigation projects
Metallurgical Industries (Ferrous)
Cement Plants
Petroleum Refining Industries
Leather/Skin/hide processing Industries
Chemical fertilizers
Synthetic Organic Chemical Industries (dyes & dye intermediates; bulk drugs &
intermediates excluding drug formulation; Synthetic rubbers; basic organic
chemicals other synthetic organic chemicals and chemical intermediates)
Distilleries
Pulp and paper industry excluding manufacturing of paper from waste paper and
manufacture of paper from ready pulp without bleaching.
Isolated storage and handling of hazardous chemicals (As per threshold planning
quantity indicated in column 3of schedule 2 & 3 of MSIHU Rules 1989 amended
2000)
169
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-11 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS
Airports
Industrial Estates, Parks, Complexes, Export Processing Zones (EPZs), Special
Economic Zones (SEZs), Biotech Parks, Leather Complexes
Ports, harbours, Jetties, Marine terminals, break waters and dredging.
Highways, railways, transport terminals, mass rapid transport systems
Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs)
Common Municipal Solid Waste Management facility (CMSWMF)
Building & Large Construction Projects including Shopping malls, Multiplexes,
Commercial Complexes, Housing Estates, Hospitals and Institutions.
Townships & Area Development Projects
11.5 STUDY TEAM
The multidisciplinary team included expertise in Environmental Impact Assessment, Air
pollution & Control measures, Noise Control measures, Ecology and bio-diversity, Land
use, Geology, Environmental Chemistry and Socio-Economic planner.
The team members were:
SL.NO. NAME ROLE
1. Dr. Sanjay Raj EIA Coordinator - Overall coordination of EIA
study, report preparation, review and validation
2. Dr. R. K. Jayaseelan FAE - Land Use and Hydrology, ground water &
water conservation
3. Dr. Muthiah Mariappan FAE - Air pollution control, Solid waste &
Hazardous Management
4. Dr. N. Sukumaran FAE - Ecology & Bio-diversity
5. Mr. V. K. Gautam FAE - Meteorology, Air Quality Modeling &
Prediction
6. Mrs. Geetha
Shreeneevasakan
FAE - Socio-Economic Expert
7. Mr. R. Rajendran FAE - Noise, Air pollution control / Project in-
charge
8. Mr. M. Mohamed Assain Project Engineer - Preparation and
170
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-11 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS
Documentation/FAA Air pollution Control
9. Ms. P. Indu Junior Project Engineer - Preparation and
Documentation
10. Mr. M. Jaganath Junior Project Engineer - Preparation and
Documentation
11. Ms. M. Naveena Junior Project Engineer - Preparation and
Documentation
12. Mr. Robson Chinnadurai Senior Chemist - Environmental Monitoring
13. Mr. M. Muruganantham Junior Chemist - Environmental Monitoring
14. Ms. K. Narmatha Analyst & Environmental Chemist
15. Mr. Y. Venkateshwaralu Field Technician
16. Mr. Sathish Field Technician
171
JUNE 2015
EIA REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED BLACK GRANITE MINE
CHAPTER-11 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS
172
JUNE 2015