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Ministry of Environment & Forests (IA Division) ******

SUMMARY RECORD OF THE 16^TH MEETING OF EXPERT APPRAISAL COMMITTEE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL APPRAISAL OF MINING PROJECTS CONSTITUTED UNDER EIA NOTIFICATION, 2006.

The 16^th meeting of the Expert Appraisal Committee for Environmental Impact Assessment of Mining Projects of the Ministry of Environment and Forests was held on June 21-23, 2011. The list of participants is annexed.

After welcoming the Committee Members, discussion on each of the agenda items was taken up ad-seriatim.

2.1 Expansion of Narrain Mines of M/s Sesa Goa Ltd., village Megalahallihobli, Hereguntnur Taluka, District Chitradurga, Karnataka (Consultant: Bhagavathi Anna Labs Ltd, Hyderabad)

The proposal was considered by the Committee and the proponent made a presentation on the same. The proposal is for enhancement of production of iron ore from 6.0 million TPA to 10.0 million TPA. The earlier EC have been obtained in the year 1999, 2007 and 2009 for capacities of 1.6 million TPA, 2.5 million TPA and 6.0 million TPA respectively. TOR for this project were prescribed on 13.1.2010. Public hearing has been held on 14.10.2010. It was observed that there were two reports on the file of the Ministry; the one dated May, 2011 submitted along with the proposal and the other dated June, 2011 which was circulated as part of the documents to all the members of the EAC for the meeting. The Committee took on record the report dated June, 2011 which was made available to all the members of the EAC and accordingly considered the proposal based on the report of June, 2011. To a query from the Committee, the proponent categorically stated that both the reports dated May, 2011 and June, 2011 are exactly the same except for the date on the cover of the report.

The mine lease area is 163.5 ha, which is a forestland. Forestry clearance has been obtained on 28^th August, 2006. The ultimate working depth will be 735 m AMSL. The groundwater table is reported to be at 700 m AMSL. Mine working will not intersect groundwater table. Life of mine is 6 years. Mine working will be opencast mechanized. Water requirement is 705 kld, which will be obtained from harvested rainwater and groundwater. The baseline AAQ data showed that the levels are within permissible limit. The issues raised during public hearing were also considered and discussed during the meeting. It was reported that there is no court case pending against the project. However, from the enclosures submitted by the proponent, it was observed that there is some litigation relating to the project. The Committee sought clarifications on the same.

Based on the presentation made and discussions held, the Committee sought information on the following:-

(i) The change of the machinery with respect to the existing equipment / machinery being used taking into account the proposed enhancement of production should be clearly spelt out.

(ii) The geological sections do not show any soil whereas the geological plans shows presence of soil cover. This aspect needs to be looked into and the geological sections should be compatible with the geological plan.

(iii) Details of handling of top soil and its management should be given.

(iv) It was observed that there is no monitoring station within 500 m of the mine lease in the pre dominant downwind direction. This aspect needs to be clarified and the justification of location of monitoring stations should be given.

(v) For the purpose of modelling, dust generation, emission factors and predicted values should be given.

(vi) The groundwater quality in respect of stations GW-1 and GW-5 show hardness more than 300. Usage of groundwater keeping in view its quality should be given. It may clearly be mentioned whether this water is used for drinking. Data on dissolved oxygen in the water sample should also be given.

(vii) Details of compliance of earlier EC conditions along with supporting documents and photographs should be given. In this regard, the points of violation as reported by IBM in their report should also be responded to.

(viii) The data on flora and fauna appears to be incomplete. It may be rechecked and reconfirmed and updated as may be required for its completeness.

(ix) Wildlife Conservation Plan is too sketchy and needs to be revised. In this regard, the impact on critical wildlife habitat especially sloth bear and monitor lizard reported in the study area should be taken into account.

(x) Point no. xvii of TOR, reported to have been given in chapter IV does not give the requisite information. The requisite information may be provided.

(xi) Some of the pages in the project documents were found to be not legible and tables not referenced. This aspect may be looked into.

(xii) A copy of the mine plan should be provided.

(xiii) Details of the court case and its present status should be given.

(xiv) Response to the issues raised during public hearing should be detailed. It should specifically deal with the issues raised by the Hon’ble M.P. as referred there under.

(xv) A detailed note on transportation of the mineral taking into account the road capacity and the related issues of dust and noise as also raised during public hearing should be given.

It was decided that the proponent will submit the response / information on the above-mentioned points by 30.8.2011 and simultaneously circulate the same to the Members of the EAC and thereafter the proposal will be considered by the EAC during its meeting to be held in September, 2011.

2.2 Gonua Iron & Manganese Ore Mine of M/s M.G. Mohanty, village Gonua, District Sundergarh, Orissa (EC)

The consideration of the proposal was deferred at the request of the project proponent as the forestry clearance for the forestland involved in the project is awaited.

2.2A Bhadrasahi (Kolha-Roida) Iron & Manganese Ore Mine of M/s (Bharat Process & Mechanical Engineers Ltd.) C/O The Orissa Minerals Development Co. Ltd., Village Bhadrasahi, District Keonjhar, Orissa (Consultant: Geomin Consultants Pvt. Ltd., Bhubaneswar)

The proposal was earlier considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee during its meeting held on April 25-27, 2011 wherein the Committee had sought additional information/clarifications on various related issues. Based on the additional information/clarifications submitted by the proponent, the proposal was considered further. With regard to the coordinates of the site, the Committee took note of the clarification given by Indian Bureau of Mines vide their letter dated 10.5.2011. As per the key plan, the coordinates are 22⁰01’28” to 22⁰02’06” (N) and 85⁰23’57” to 85⁰25’17” (E). Further, these coordinates are subject to correction as per the digitized geo referenced map which is yet to be submitted. The additional baseline AAQ data has been collected for one month and submitted, which showed that the air quality levels are within permissible limits. With regard to the public hearing the SPCB have clarified that separate public hearings were held for the two mines and the public hearing proceedings submitted. The site specific wildlife conservation plan has been prepared and approved by PCCF (Wildlife). The other issues raised by the Committee were also clarified and discussed during the meeting.

Based on the presentation made and discussion held, the Committee recommended the project for environmental clearance subject to following condition:-

(i) The company shall lay down specific procedures and precautions to be followed by all the workers engaged in the mining activity so as to minimize the occupational health impacts due to manganese and it shall also be ensure that these procedures are followed in letter and spirit.

2.3 Limestone Mining Project of M/s Lucky Minmat Ltd., village Rampur-Ballupura, District Sikar, Rajasthan (Consultant: R.K. Consultants, Jodhpur)

The consideration of the proposal was deferred for want of forestry clearance for the forestland involved in the project.

2.4 Iron Ore & Quartz Mine of M/s U.B.R. Minerals, village Pothavaram, Bestavaripet (M), District Prakasham, Andhra Pradesh (EC)

The consideration of the proposal was deferred at the request of the project proponent.

2.5 Jalahuri Iron and Manganese Ore Mining Project of M/s Mala Roy & Others, Village Jalahuri, District Keonjhar, Orissa (ERS(I) Pvt. Ltd., Bhubaneswar)

The proposal was earlier considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee during its meeting held on January 19-21, 2011 wherein the Committee had sought additional information/clarifications on various related issues. Based on the additional information /clarifications submitted by the proponent, the proposal was considered further. The proponent made a presentation on the compliance of the earlier EC conditions, it was stated that for stabilization of dump, coir matting is being used, which has started showing its impact in bringing down the levels of PM₁₀. However, the PM₁₀ levels are still on higher side and further effective safeguard measures need to be taken to control fugitive emissions. Garland drains have been constructed. The overall compliance, based on the presentation appeared to be satisfactory. Fresh baseline AAQ data has been collected for one month and submitted, which showed PM₁₀ values on higher side. It was stated that chemical additives are proposed to be used in the water for sprinkling in critical areas, more frequent water sprinkling and plantation activities will be carried out. Information on flora and fauna was also submitted as per the post mine land use. An area of 129.705 ha will be excavated at the conceptual stage. An area of 9.4 ha will be covered for OB dump. Plantation will be raised in an area of 9.422 ha. The other issues raised by the Committee were also discussed and clarified.

Based on the presentation made and discussion held, the Committee recommended the project for environmental clearance subject to following condition:-

(i) Effective safeguard measures shall be taken to control particulate level in the area. It shall be ensured that the PM₁₀ levels are within permissible limits.

2.6 Mining Project of M/s Ullikallu Dolomite Mine Pvt. Ltd., village Ullikallu, Tehsil Singanamala, District Ananthapur, Andhra Pradesh (TOR)

The consideration of the proposal was deferred as the project proponent did not attend the meeting.

2.7 Proposed 15 MTPA Iron Ore Washing & Beneficiation Plant of M/s Sarda Mines Pvt. Ltd., village Soyabali, Tehsil Barbil, District Keonjhar, Orissa (Internal Consideration)

The proposal was earlier considered by the Expert Appraisal Committee during its meeting held on May 25-27, 2011 wherein the proponent had proposed certain modifications in technology especially with regard to management of tailings. The proponent during the last meeting had proposed to adopt filter press technology and based on the same, the proposal was appraised. However, the requisite documentation incorporating the proposed changes was required to be submitted and seen by the Committee Members. Accordingly, the proponent submitted the requisite documents, which were considered by the Committee. It was observed that a filter press unit will be added after the tailing thickener to generate rejects in the form of filter cake rather than thickened slime for disposal. The filter cake will be disposed within the mine lease area and there will be no need for earlier proposed tailing pond outside the mine lease. It has categorically been mentioned that the proposed changes will be duly incorporated in the mining scheme beyond 2016. The water requirement will be 6846 m³/hr, out of which 6277 m³/hr will be re-circulated and reused and 569 m³/hr will be the fresh water requirement. In addition, 43 m³/hr will be required for dust suppression and 32 m³/hr will be for greenbelt. Thus, the total fresh water requirement will be 644 m³/hr. The estimated revised cost of the project is Rs 367.173 crores.

Taking into account the revised documents and based on the discussions held, the Committee recommended the project for environment clearance subject to following condition:-

(i) The filter cake shall be disposed at the earmarked site, which shall be above highest water table and shall be lined to prevent any leaching from the filter cake disposal site into groundwater. Efforts shall also be made to gainfully utilize the filter cake so generated in an environmentally compatible manner.

2.8 Proposed Iron Ore Beneficiation and Cold Briquetted Ore of M/s Daataa Shree Metals & Minerals Pvt. Ltd., village Hiradahalu, D. Hirehal Mandal, Ananthapur District, Andhra Pradesh (TOR)

The consideration of the proposal was deferred as the project proponent did not attend the meeting.

2.9 Mining of Sand Stone & Bajari of M/s Mahesh Stone Crusher, village Kalruhi, Tehsil Amb, District Una, Himachal Pradesh (Consultant: Shivalik Solid Waste Management Ltd., Dabhota, Solan, H.P.)

The proposal was considered by the Committee to determine the Terms of Reference (TOR) for undertaking detailed EIA study for the purpose of obtaining environmental clearance in accordance with the provisions of the EIA Notification, 2006. For this purpose, the proponent had submitted information in the prescribed format (Form-1) along with pre-feasibility report.

The proposal is for mining of 74,000 TPA of sand, stone and bajri put together from the bed of river Soan. Mine lease area is 7-02-13 ha. It has been considered as Category ‘A’ because of the inter-state boundary with Punjab within 10 km of the mine lease. No forestland is involved. Mine working will be opencast manual and will be restricted up to one metre from river bed level. Mineral transportation will be by road.

Based on the information furnished and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following TORs for undertaking detailed EIA study:-

1) A copy of the document in support of the fact that the proponent is the rightful lessee of the mine should be given.

2) All documents including approved mine plan (eco friendly mine plan), EIA report and public hearing should be compatible with one another in terms of the mine lease area, production levels, waste generation and its management and mining technology.

3) The terms and conditions imposed, if any, by the Competent Authority in the State Government while granting mining lease / permit / contract should be built into the mine plan (eco friendly mine plan) as well as the EIA report. It may inter-alia include; area of working (length and breadth of the river stretch), mode of working, working shift, transportation of mineral, restriction, if any imposed for working etc.

4) Involvement of forestland, if any, in the project and status of forestry clearance should be given.

5) The study area will comprise of 10 km zone around the mine lease from lease periphery and the data contained in the EIA such as waste generation etc should be for the life of the mine / lease period.

6) Does the company have a well laid down Environment Policy approved by its Board of Directors? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA report.

7) Does the Environment Policy prescribe for standard operating process/procedures to bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or forest norms / conditions? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA.

8) What is the hierarchical system or Administrative order of the company to deal with the environmental issues and for ensuring compliance with the EC conditions. Details of this system may be given.

9) Does the company have a system of reporting of non compliances / violations of environmental norms to the Board of Directors of the company and / or shareholders or stakeholders at large? This reporting mechanism should be detailed in the EIA report.

10) Land use of the study area delineating forest area, agricultural land, grazing land, wildlife sanctuary and national park, migratory routes of fauna, water bodies, human settlements and other ecological features.

11) Land use plan of the mine lease area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post operational phases.

12) Impact of the project on the wildlife in the surrounding and any other protected area and accordingly detailed mitigation measures required should be worked out with cost implications.

13) The vegetation in the RF / PF in the study area, if any, should be indicated.

14) A study shall be got done to ascertain the impact of the mining project on wildlife of the area including aquatic life.

15) Location of National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Corridors, Tiger/Elephant Reserves (existing as well as proposed) within 10 km of the mine lease should be clearly indicated supported by a location map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden. Necessary clearance from the Chief Wildlife Warden for operating the mine within 10 km of the National Park/Sanctuary, if any, should also be obtained and furnished.

16) A detailed biological study for the study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the mine lease)] including the aquatic fauna in the riverine system shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer zone should be furnished based on field survey clearly indicating the Schedule of the fauna present. In case of any scheduled-I fauna found in the study area, the necessary plan for their conservation should be prepared in consultation with State Forest and Wildlife Department and details furnished. Necessary allocation of funds for implementing the same should be made as part of the project cost.

17) Impact of the project on land use including change of river course, if any should be given.

18) Impact on topography, drainage, agricultural fields, cattle fields, wildlife, water logging leading to water borne diseases, if any. It may also be shown whether it will lead to change of watercourse of the river. Modelling exercise should also be carried out through an expert agency to show the change in river flow dynamics, if any.

19) Collection of one season (non-monsoon) primary baseline data on ambient air quality (PM₁₀, SO₂ and NOx), water quality, noise level, soil and flora and fauna, site-specific meteorological data should also be collected. The location of the monitoring stations should be justified. Date wise collected baseline AAQ data should form part of EIA and EMP report. The mineralogical composition of PM₁₀particularly for free silica should be given. There should be at least one AAQ monitoring station within 500 m of the mine lease in the pre-dominant downwind direction.

20) Air quality modelling should be carried out for prediction of impact of the project on the air quality of the area. It should also take into account the impact of movement of vehicles for transportation of mineral. The details of the model used and input parameters used for modelling should be provided. The air quality contours may be shown on a location map clearly indicating the location of the site, location of sensitive receptors, if any and the habitation. The wind roses showing pre-dominant wind direction may also be indicated on the map. The impact of stone crusher nearby should also be taken into account.

21) The water requirement for the project, its availability and source to be furnished. A detailed water balance should also be provided. Fresh water requirement for the project should be indicated.

22) Necessary clearance from the Competent Authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided.

23) Impact of the project on the water quality should be assessed and necessary safeguard measures, if any required should be provided.

24) Information on site elevation, working depth, groundwater table should be provided both in AMSL and bgl. A schematic diagram may also be provided for the same.

25) Quantity of solid waste generation, if any, should be estimated and details for its disposal and management should be provided.

26) Impact on local transport infrastructure due to the project should be evaluated. Projected increase in truck traffic as a result of the project in the present road network (including those outside the project area) and whether it is capable of handling the increased load should be estimated. Arrangement for improving the infrastructure, if contemplated including action to be taken by other agencies such as State Government, if any, should be covered.

27) Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the mine workers should be furnished.

28) Phase-wise plan of greenbelt development, plantation and compensatory afforestation clearly indicating the area to be covered under plantation and the species to be planted should be provided.

29) Occupational health impacts of the project activity should be anticipated and reported and proposed preventive measures indicated. These along with details of pre-placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules and medical facilities proposed to be provided should be incorporated in the EMP.

30) Measures of socio economic influence to the local community, proposed to be provided by project proponent should be spelt out. As far as possible, quantitative dimensions should be given.

31) Detailed environmental management plan to mitigate the environmental impacts. Specific safeguard measures to control PM₁₀ as well as pollution due to transportation should be given. It should also address the impact due to stone crusher nearby.

32) Public hearing points raised and commitment of the project proponent on the same along with time bound action plan to implement the same should be provided.

33) Details of litigation pending against the project, if any, with direction /order passed by any Court of Law against the project should be given.

34) The cost of the project (capital cost and recurring cost) as well as the cost towards implementation of EMP should clearly be spelt out.

Besides the above, the below mentioned general points will also to be followed:-

a) A note confirming compliance of the TOR, with cross referencing of the relevant sections / pages of the EIA report should be provided.

b) All documents may be properly referenced with index, page numbers and continuous page numbering.

c) Where data are presented in the report especially in tables, the period in which the data were collected and the sources should be indicated.

d) Where the documents provided are in a language other than English, an English translation should be provided.

e) The Questionnaire for environmental appraisal of mining projects as prescribed by the Ministry shall also be filled and submitted.

f) Approved mine plan along with copy of the approval letter for the proposed capacity should also be submitted.

g) While preparing the EIA report, the instructions for the proponents and instructions for the consultants issued by MoEF vide O.M. No. J-11013/41/2006-IA.II(I) dated 4^th August, 2009, which are available on the website of this Ministry should also be followed.

The EIA report should also include surface plan of the area indicating contours of main topographic features, drainage and mining area.

After preparing the draft EIA (as per the generic structure prescribed in Appendix-III of the EIA Notification, 2006) covering the above mentioned issues, the proponent will get the public hearing conducted and take further necessary action for obtaining environmental clearance in accordance with the procedure prescribed under the EIA Notification, 2006.

2.10 Limestone Mining Project of M/s MW Mines Pvt. Ltd., village Chawandiya Madpura, Tehsil Khimsar, District Nagaur, Rajasthan (Consultant: Ramjee Mine Envirotech, Jaipur)

The proposal is for renewal of mine lease which fall due on 3.7.2011 for production of 1.0 million TPA of chemical grade limestone. The mine lease area is 335.37 ha. No forestland is involved. The earlier environment clearance was obtained vide letter J-11015/402/2006-IA.II(M) dated 10^th May, 2007 for a capacity of 1.0 million TPA. Mine working will be opencast semi-mechanised involving drilling and blasting. Life of the mine is 53 years. It is estimated that 88,10,807 m3 of waste will be generated during life of mine. The ultimate pit limit will be 18 m bgl. Backfilling is proposed. The groundwater table is reported to vary between 60 – 80 m bgl. Mine working will not intersect groundwater table. Peak water requirement is estimated as 31 kld

The public hearing was held earlier on 15.11.2006 at the time of seeking environment clearance as per the procedure prescribed under EIA Notification, 2006. The proponent made a request to the Committee for exempting public hearing as no enhancement of production and or lease area is envisaged under the project. The Committee, taking into account that this a case of renewal of mine lease only without any enhancement either in terms of lease area or production and taking into account that the public hearing was earlier held following the procedure prescribed under EIA Notification, 2006, recommended for exemption from public hearing.

Based on the information furnished and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following TORs for undertaking detailed EIA study:-

1) Status of compliance of the earlier EC conditions along with supporting documents and photographs should be submitted.

2) Year-wise production prior to EIA Notification, 2006 coming into force and clearly stating the highest production achieved in any one year prior to 2006. It may also be categorically informed whether there had been any increase in production after the EIA Notification, 2006 coming into force w.r.t. the highest production achieved prior to 2006.

3) A copy of the document in support of the fact that the proponent is the rightful lessee of the mine should be given.

4) All documents including approved mine plan, EIA and public hearing should be compatible with one another in terms of the mine lease area, production levels, waste generation and its management and mining technology and should be in the name of the lessee.

5) Does the company have a well laid down Environment Policy approved by its Board of Directors? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA report.

6) Does the Environment Policy prescribe for standard operating process /procedures to bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or forest norms / conditions? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA.

7) What is the hierarchical system or Administrative order of the company to deal with the environmental issues and for ensuring compliance with the EC conditions. Details of this system may be given.

8) Does the company have a system of reporting of non compliances / violations of environmental norms to the Board of Directors of the company and / or shareholders or stakeholders at large? This reporting mechanism should be detailed in the EIA report.

9) The study area will comprise of 10 km zone around the mine lease from lease periphery and the data contained in the EIA such as waste generation etc should be for the life of the mine / lease period.

11) Land use plan of the mine lease area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post operational phases and submitted.

12) A confirmation may be adduced, duly authenticated by the competent authority in the State Government to the effect whether the project falls in Aravalli and whether it is covered by the order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court dated 8.4.2005 in the contempt petition (c) 412/2004 in writ petition 202 of 1995 in the matter of Godavarman vs Union of India.

13) Location of National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Corridors, Tiger/Elephant Reserves (existing as well as proposed), if any, within 10 km of the mine lease should be clearly indicated supported by a location map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden Necessary clearance, if any, as may be applicable to such projects due to proximity of the ecologically sensitive areas as mentioned above should be obtained from the State Wildlife Department/ Chief Wildlife Warden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and copy furnished.

14) A detailed biological study for the study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the mine lease)] shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer zone should be furnished based on field survey clearly indicating the Schedule of the fauna present. In case of any scheduled-I fauna found in the study area, the necessary plan for their conservation should be prepared in consultation with State Forest and Wildlife Department and details furnished. Necessary allocation of funds for implementing the same should be made as part of the project cost.

15) Impact of change of land use should be given.

16) R&R plan/compensation details for the project affected people should be furnished. While preparing the R&R plan, the National Rehabilitation & Resettlement Policy should be kept in view. In respect of SCs / STs and other weaker sections, need based sample survey, family-wise, should be undertaken to assess their requirement and action programmes prepared accordingly integrating the sectoral programme of line departments of the State Government.

17) One season (non-monsoon) primary baseline data on ambient air quality (PM₁₀, SO₂ and NOx), water quality, noise level, soil and flora and fauna shall be collected and the AAQ data so collected presented date-wise in the EIA and EMP report. Site-specific meteorological data should also be collected. The location of the monitoring stations should be justified. There should be at least one monitoring station within 500 m of the mine lease in the pre-dominant downwind direction. The mineralogical composition of PM₁₀particularly for free silica should be given.

18) Air quality modeling should be carried out for prediction of impact of the project on the air quality of the area. It should also take into account the impact of movement of vehicles for transportation of mineral. The details of the model used and input parameters used for modeling should be provided. The air quality contours may be shown on a location map clearly indicating the location of the site, location of sensitive receptors, if any and the habitation. The wind roses showing pre-dominant wind direction may also be indicated on the map.

19) The water requirement for the project, its availability and source to be furnished. A detailed water balance should also be provided. Fresh water requirement for the project should be indicated.

20) Necessary clearance from the Competent Authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided.

21) Details of water conservation measures proposed to be adopted in the project should be given.

22) Impact of the project on the water quality both surface and groundwater should be assessed and necessary safeguard measures, if any required should be provided.

23) Based on actual monitored data, it may clearly be shown whether working will intersect groundwater. Necessary data and documentation in this regard may be provided. In case the working will intersect groundwater table, a detailed hydro geological study should be undertaken and report furnished. Necessary permission from Central Ground Water Authority for working below ground water and for pumping of ground water should also be obtained and copy furnished.

24) Details of first order stream, if any passing through lease area and modification/ diversion proposed, if any and the impact of the same on the hydrology should be brought out.

25) Details of rainwater harvesting proposed, if any, in the project should be provided.

26) Information on site elevation, working depth, groundwater table etc. should be provided both in AMSL and bgl. A schematic diagram may also be provided for the same.

27) Quantity of solid waste generation to be estimated and details for its disposal and management should be provided. The quality, volumes and methodology planned for removal and utilisation (preferably concurrently) of top soil should be indicated. Details of backfilling proposed, if any, should also be given. It may be clearly indicated that out of the total waste generated during the mine life, how much quantity would be backfilled and how much quantity would be disposed off in the form of external dump (number of dumps, their height, terraces etc. to be brought out).

28) The reclamation plan, post mine land use and progressive greenbelt development plan shall be prepared in tabular form (prescribed format) and submitted.

29) Impact on local transport infrastructure due to the project should be indicated. Projected increase in truck traffic as a result of the project in the present road network (including those outside the project area) should be worked out, indicating whether it is capable of handling the increased load. Arrangement for improving the infrastructure, if contemplated (including action to be taken by other agencies such as State Government) should be covered.

30) Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the mine workers should be included in the EIA report.

31) Conceptual post mining land use and Reclamation and Rehabilitation of mined out area (with plans and with adequate number of sections) should be given in the EIA report.

32) Phase-wise plan of greenbelt development, plantation and compensatory afforestation should be charted clearly indicating the area to be covered under plantation and the species to be planted. The details of plantation already done should be given.

33) Occupational health impact of project should be anticipated and preventive measures initiated. Details in this regard should be provided. Details of pre-placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules should be incorporated in the EMP.

34) Measures of socio economic significance and influence to the local community proposed to be provided by project proponent should be indicated. As far as possible, quantitative dimensions may be given with time frame for implementation.

35) Detailed environmental management plan to mitigate the environmental impacts which, should inter-alia also include the impact due to change of land use, due to loss of agricultural land and grazing land, if any, occupational health impacts besides other impacts of the projects.

36) Public hearing points raised and commitment of the project proponent on the same along with time bound action plan to implement the same should be provided.

37) Details of litigation pending against the project, if any, with direction /order passed by any Court of Law against the project should be given.

38) The cost of the project (capital cost and recurring cost) as well as the cost towards implementation of EMP should clearly be spelt out.

Besides the above, the below mentioned general points should also be followed:-

a) A note confirming compliance of the TOR, with cross referencing of the relevant sections / pages of the EIA report should be provided.

b) All documents may be properly referenced with index and continuous page numbering.

c) Where data are presented in the report especially in tables, the period in which the data were collected and the sources should be indicated.

d) Where the documents provided are in a language other than English, an English translation should be provided.

e) The Questionnaire for environmental appraisal of mining projects as prescribed by the Ministry shall also be filled and submitted.

f) Approved mine plan along with copy of the approval letter for the proposed capacity should also be submitted.

The EIA report should also include (i) surface plan of the area indicating contours of main topographic features, drainage and mining area, (ii) geological maps and sections and (iii) sections of the mine pit and external dumps, if any, clearly showing the land features of the adjoining area.

After preparing the EIA (as per the generic structure prescribed in Appendix-III of the EIA Notification, 2006) covering the above mentioned issues, further necessary action for obtaining environmental clearance in accordance with the procedure prescribed under the EIA Notification, 2006 will be taken. The Committee recommended exemption from public hearing.

2.11 Limestone (Minor Mineral) Mining Project (ML No. 27/92) of M/s Prabhudayal Sharma, Village Ransigaon/Hariyadhana, Tehsil Bilara, District Jodhpur, Rajasthan (Consultant: Ramjee Mine Envirotech, Jaipur)

The proposal is for renewal of mine lease which will fall due on 9.9.2012 and enhancement of production of limestone (minor mineral) to 0.2 million TPA. The mine lease area is 100 ha. No forestland is involved. It was reported that the said mine lease is located at a distance of about 80 km from Jodhpur, the identified critically polluted area. It is a violation case as the mine has been operated without requisite prior environmental clearance after the lease was transferred in the name of the present lessee vide letter dated 25.9.2008. Mine working will be opencast semi-mechanised involving drilling and blasting. Ultimate working depth will be 35 m bgl (280 mRL). Groundwater table is reported to vary between 260 mRL – 265 mRL. Mine working will not intersect groundwater table. Life of the mine is 51 years. Backfilling is proposed.

Based on the information furnished and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following TORs for undertaking detailed EIA study:-

1) Year-wise production prior to EIA Notification, 2006 coming into force and clearly stating the highest production achieved in any one year prior to 2006. It may also be categorically informed whether there had been any increase in production after the EIA Notification, 2006 coming into force w.r.t. the highest production achieved prior to 2006.

2) A copy of the document in support of the fact that the proponent is the rightful lessee of the mine should be given.

3) All documents including approved mine plan, EIA and public hearing should be compatible with one another in terms of the mine lease area, production levels, waste generation and its management and mining technology and should be in the name of the lessee.

4) Does the company have a well laid down Environment Policy approved by its Board of Directors? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA report.

5) Does the Environment Policy prescribe for standard operating process/procedures to bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or forest norms / conditions? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA.

6) What is the hierarchical system or Administrative order of the company to deal with the environmental issues and for ensuring compliance with the EC conditions. Details of this system may be given.

7) Does the company have a system of reporting of non compliances / violations of environmental norms to the Board of Directors of the company and / or shareholders or stakeholders at large? This reporting mechanism should be detailed in the EIA report.

8) The study area will comprise of 10 km zone around the mine lease from lease periphery and the data contained in the EIA such as waste generation etc should be for the life of the mine / lease period.

9) Land use of the study area delineating forest area, agricultural land, grazing land, wildlife sanctuary and national park, migratory routes of fauna, water bodies, human settlements and other ecological features should be indicated.

10) Land use plan of the mine lease area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post operational phases and submitted.

11) A confirmation may be adduced, duly authenticated by the competent authority in the State Government to the effect whether the project falls in Aravalli and whether it is covered by the order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court dated 8.4.2005 in the contempt petition (c) 412/2004 in writ petition 202 of 1995 in the matter of Godavarman vs Union of India.

12) Location of National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Corridors, Tiger/Elephant Reserves (existing as well as proposed), if any, within 10 km of the mine lease should be clearly indicated supported by a location map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden Necessary clearance, if any, as may be applicable to such projects due to proximity of the ecologically sensitive areas as mentioned above should be obtained from the State Wildlife Department/ Chief Wildlife Warden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and copy furnished.

13) A detailed biological study for the study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the mine lease)] shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer zone should be furnished based on field survey clearly indicating the Schedule of the fauna present. In case of any scheduled-I fauna found in the study area, the necessary plan for their conservation should be prepared in consultation with State Forest and Wildlife Department and details furnished. Necessary allocation of funds for implementing the same should be made as part of the project cost.

14) Impact of change of land use should be given.

15) R&R plan / compensation details for the project affected people should be furnished. While preparing the R&R plan, the National Rehabilitation & Resettlement Policy should be kept in view. In respect of SCs / STs and other weaker sections, need based sample survey, family-wise, should be undertaken to assess their requirement and action programmes prepared accordingly integrating the sectoral programme of line departments of the State Government.

16) One season (non-monsoon) primary baseline data on ambient air quality (PM₁₀, SO₂ and NOx), water quality, noise level, soil and flora and fauna shall be collected and the AAQ data so collected presented date-wise in the EIA and EMP report. Site-specific meteorological data should also be collected. The location of the monitoring stations should be justified. There should be at least one monitoring station within 500 m of the mine lease in the pre-dominant downwind direction. The mineralogical composition of PM₁₀particularly for free silica should be given.

17) Air quality modeling should be carried out for prediction of impact of the project on the air quality of the area. It should also take into account the impact of movement of vehicles for transportation of mineral. The details of the model used and input parameters used for modeling should be provided. The air quality contours may be shown on a location map clearly indicating the location of the site, location of sensitive receptors, if any and the habitation. The wind roses showing pre-dominant wind direction may also be indicated on the map.

18) The water requirement for the project, its availability and source to be furnished. A detailed water balance should also be provided. Fresh water requirement for the project should be indicated.

19) Necessary clearance from the Competent Authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided.

20) Details of water conservation measures proposed to be adopted in the project should be given.

21) Impact of the project on the water quality both surface and groundwater should be assessed and necessary safeguard measures, if any required should be provided.

22) Based on actual monitored data, it may clearly be shown whether working will intersect groundwater. Necessary data and documentation in this regard may be provided. In case the working will intersect groundwater table, a detailed hydro geological study should be undertaken and report furnished. Necessary permission from Central Ground Water Authority for working below ground water and for pumping of ground water should also be obtained and copy furnished.

23) Details of first order stream, if any passing through lease area and modification/ diversion proposed, if any and the impact of the same on the hydrology should be brought out.

24) Details of rainwater harvesting proposed, if any, in the project should be provided.

25) Information on site elevation, working depth, groundwater table etc. should be provided both in AMSL and bgl. A schematic diagram may also be provided for the same.

26) Quantity of solid waste generation to be estimated and details for its disposal and management should be provided. The quality, volumes and methodology planned for removal and utilisation (preferably concurrently) of top soil should be indicated. Details of backfilling proposed, if any, should also be given. It may be clearly indicated that out of the total waste generated during the mine life, how much quantity would be backfilled and how much quantity would be disposed off in the form of external dump (number of dumps, their height, terraces etc. to be brought out).

27) The reclamation plan, post mine land use and progressive greenbelt development plan shall be prepared in tabular form (prescribed format) and submitted.

28) Impact on local transport infrastructure due to the project should be indicated. Projected increase in truck traffic as a result of the project in the present road network (including those outside the project area) should be worked out, indicating whether it is capable of handling the increased load. Arrangement for improving the infrastructure, if contemplated (including action to be taken by other agencies such as State Government) should be covered.

29) Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the mine workers should be included in the EIA report.

30) Conceptual post mining land use and Reclamation and Rehabilitation of mined out area (with plans and with adequate number of sections) should be given in the EIA report.

31) Phase-wise plan of greenbelt development, plantation and compensatory afforestation should be charted clearly indicating the area to be covered under plantation and the species to be planted. The details of plantation already done should be given.

32) Occupational health impact of project should be anticipated and preventive measures initiated. Details in this regard should be provided. Details of pre-placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules should be incorporated in the EMP.

33) Measures of socio economic significance and influence to the local community proposed to be provided by project proponent should be indicated. As far as possible, quantitative dimensions may be given with time frame for implementation.

34) Detailed environmental management plan to mitigate the environmental impacts which, should inter-alia also include the impact due to change of land use, due to loss of agricultural land and grazing land, if any, occupational health impacts besides other impacts of the projects.

35) Public hearing points raised and commitment of the project proponent on the same along with time bound action plan to implement the same should be provided.

36) Details of litigation pending against the project, if any, with direction /order passed by any Court of Law against the project should be given.

37) The cost of the project (capital cost and recurring cost) as well as the cost towards implementation of EMP should clearly be spelt out.

Besides the above, the below mentioned general points should also be followed:-

a) A note confirming compliance of the TOR, with cross referencing of the relevant sections / pages of the EIA report should be provided.

b) All documents may be properly referenced with index and continuous page numbering.

c) Where data are presented in the report especially in tables, the period in which the data were collected and the sources should be indicated.

d) Where the documents provided are in a language other than English, an English translation should be provided.

e) The Questionnaire for environmental appraisal of mining projects as prescribed by the Ministry shall also be filled and submitted.

f) Approved mine plan along with copy of the approval letter for the proposed capacity should also be submitted.

2.12 Mallapur Silica Sand Mine of M/s Jayshree Trading Co., Village Mallapur, Tehsil Bara, District Allahabad, U.P. (TOR)

The consideration of the proposal was deferred as the project proponent did not attend the meeting.

2.13 Karampada Iron Ore Mine of M/s Singhbhum Mineral Co., Chaibasa, District West Singhbhum, Jharkhand (EC)

The consideration of the proposal was deferred at the request of the project proponent.

2.14 Limestone Mining Project (Minor Mineral) M.L. No.122/91 of M/s Nitesh Minerals Pvt. Ltd., Village Hariyadhana, Tehsil Bilara & District Jodhpur, Rajasthan (Consultant: J.M. Environet Pvt. Ltd., Gurgaon)

The consideration of the proposal was deferred for want of approved eco friendly mine plan.

2.15 Limestone Mining Project (minor mineral) M.L. No. 133/92 of M/s Gotan Lime Stone Company, Village Borunda, Tehsil Bilara, District Jodhpur, Rajasthan (Consultant: J.M. Environet Pvt. Ltd., Gurgaon)

The consideration of the proposal was deferred for want of approved eco friendly mine plan.

2.16 KJST Iron, Manganese and Bauxite Ore Mine of M/s Prabodh Mohanty, village Kalmang, Jaldihi, Sidimba & Tantigram, District Sundergarh, Orissa (Consultant: Geomin Consultants (P) Ltd, Bhubaneswar)

The proposal is for enhancement of production of iron ore from 0.7 million TPA to 2.0169 million TPA and bauxite ore from 0.05 million TPA to 0.13 million TPA along with crushing and screening plant. The mine lease area is 188.523 ha, which is a forestland. Forestry clearance has been obtained for 177.517 ha. It was noted that the earlier environmental clearance was obtained on 28^th January, 2008. The compliance report to the earlier EC conditions as presented during the meeting was vague and sketchy. The claim made by the proponent regarding compliance to the earlier EC conditions was not substantiated with supporting data and photographs. The Committee, therefore, deferred consideration of the proposal. It was also observed that the project documents also need revision.

It was decided that the proponent will submit the revised documents and compliance of the earlier EC conditions by 30.7.2011 and simultaneously circulate the same to the Members of the EAC and thereafter the proposal will be considered by the EAC during its meeting to be held in August, 2011.

2.17 Ramanadurga Iron Ore Mine of M/s Sri Kumarswamy Mineral Exports, Ramanadurga Block, Sandur Taluka, District Bellary, Karnataka (Consultant: Transit Surveys, Bellary)

The proposal is for renewal of mine lease, which will fall due on 24.1.2012. The mine lease area is 60.8 ha, which is a forestland. Forestry clearance was obtained, which is co-terminus with the mine lease. The proponent have applied for renewal of forest clearance. The earlier EC was granted on 2.11.2007 for 2.0 million TPA of ROM and dispatch of 0.83 million TPA of sub grade ore from the existing stock of sub grade ore. The proponent was not prepared with the presentation regarding compliance of the earlier EC conditions. In view of the same, the consideration of the proposal was deferred.

It was decided that the proponent will submit the compliance of the earlier EC conditions by 10.7.2011 and simultaneously circulate the same to the Members of the EAC and thereafter the proposal will be considered by the EAC during its meeting to be held in July, 2011.

2.18 Khandbandh Iron Ore Mine of M/s SMC Power Generation Ltd., Village Khandbandh, Jalhari and Baitarani, Tehsil Barbil, District Keonjhar, Orissa (Consultant: ERS(I) Pvt. Ltd., Bhubaneswar)

The proposal is for opening of a new mine for production of 1.123 million TPA of iron ore (ROM) along with 500 TPH crushing plant. The mine is reported to have been worked earlier by some other lessee. The mine lease area is 244.03 ha, which includes 189.235 ha of forestland. The proponent have submitted their proposal for forest diversion. It was also stated that Khandband village having 60 – 70 hutments with a population of about 500 people is located within the mine lease. The ore to be extracted will be dispatched to their integrated steel plant at a distance of about 300 km. Life of mine is 26 years. Mine working will be opencast involving drilling and blasting. Water requirement is estimated as 50 kld, which will be met from rainwater and groundwater.

Based on the information furnished and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following TORs for undertaking detailed EIA study:-

1) A copy of the document in support of the fact that the proponent is the rightful lessee of the mine should be given.

2) All documents including approved mine plan, EIA and public hearing should be compatible with one another in terms of the mine lease area, production levels, waste generation and its management and mining technology and should be in the name of the lessee.

3) Does the company have a well laid down Environment Policy approved by its Board of Directors? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA report.

4) Does the Environment Policy prescribe for standard operating process/procedures to bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or forest norms / conditions? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA.

5) What is the hierarchical system or Administrative order of the company to deal with the environmental issues and for ensuring compliance with the EC conditions. Details of this system may be given.

6) Does the company have a system of reporting of non compliances / violations of environmental norms to the Board of Directors of the company and / or shareholders or stakeholders at large? This reporting mechanism should be detailed in the EIA report.

7) The study area will comprise of 10 km zone around the mine lease from lease periphery and the data contained in the EIA such as waste generation etc should be for the life of the mine / lease period.

8) Land use of the study area delineating forest area, agricultural land, grazing land, wildlife sanctuary and national park, migratory routes of fauna, water bodies, human settlements and other ecological features should be indicated.

9) Land use plan of the mine lease area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post operational phases and submitted.

10) High Resolution Satellite Imagery of the proposed area clearly showing the land use and other ecological features of the study area (core and buffer zone).

11) A Certificate from the Competent Authority in the State Forest Department confirming the involvement of forest land, if any in the project area, or otherwise, based on land use classification (revenue record) as also in terms of the definition of forest as pronounced in the judgement of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in the matter of T.N. Godavarman Vs. Union of India. In the event of any claim by the project proponent regarding the status of forests, the site may be inspected by the State Forest Department along with the Regional Office of the Ministry to ascertain the status of forests, based on which the Certificate in this regard as mentioned above be issued. In all such cases, it would be desirable for representative of the State Forest Department to assist the Expert Appraisal Committees.

12) Status of forestry clearance for the broken up area and virgin forestland involved in the project including deposition of net present value (NPV) and compensatory afforestation (CA). A copy of the forestry clearance should also be furnished.

13) Implementation of status of recognition of forest rights under the Scheduled Tribes and other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.

14) Impact of the project on the wildlife in the surrounding and any other protected area and accordingly detailed mitigative measures required should be worked out with cost implications and submitted.

15) The vegetation in the RF / PF area should be given. Details in this regard should be given.

16) A study shall be got done to ascertain the impact of the mining project on wildlife of the area including on the elephant population and details furnished.

17) Location of National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Corridors, Tiger/Elephant Reserves (existing as well as proposed), if any, within 10 km of the mine lease should be clearly indicated supported by a location map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden Necessary clearance, if any, as may be applicable to such projects due to proximity of the ecologically sensitive areas as mentioned above should be obtained from the State Wildlife Department/ Chief Wildlife Warden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and copy furnished.

18) A detailed biological study for the study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the mine lease)] shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer zone should be furnished based on field survey clearly indicating the Schedule of the fauna present. In case of any scheduled-I fauna found in the study area, the necessary plan for their conservation should be prepared in consultation with State Forest and Wildlife Department and details furnished. Necessary allocation of funds for implementing the same should be made as part of the project cost.

19) Impact of change of land use should be given.

20) R&R plan / compensation details for the project affected people should be furnished. While preparing the R&R plan, the National Rehabilitation & Resettlement Policy should be kept in view. In respect of SCs / STs and other weaker sections, need based sample survey, family-wise, should be undertaken to assess their requirement and action programmes prepared accordingly integrating the sectoral programme of line departments of the State Government.

21) One season (non-monsoon) primary baseline data on ambient air quality (PM₁₀, SO₂ and NOx), water quality, noise level, soil and flora and fauna shall be collected and the AAQ data so collected presented date-wise in the EIA and EMP report. Site-specific meteorological data should also be collected. The location of the monitoring stations should be justified. There should be at least one monitoring station within 500 m of the mine lease in the pre-dominant downwind direction.

22) Air quality modeling should be carried out for prediction of impact of the project on the air quality of the area. It should also take into account the impact of movement of vehicles for transportation of mineral. The details of the model used and input parameters used for modeling should be provided. The air quality contours may be shown on a location map clearly indicating the location of the site, location of sensitive receptors, if any and the habitation. The wind roses showing pre-dominant wind direction may also be indicated on the map.

23) The water requirement for the project, its availability and source to be furnished. A detailed water balance should also be provided. Fresh water requirement for the project should be indicated.

24) Necessary clearance from the Competent Authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided.

25) Details of water conservation measures proposed to be adopted in the project should be given.

26) Impact of the project on the water quality both surface and groundwater should be assessed and necessary safeguard measures, if any required should be provided.

27) Based on actual monitored data, it may clearly be shown whether working will intersect groundwater. Necessary data and documentation in this regard may be provided. In case the working will intersect groundwater table, a detailed hydro geological study should be undertaken and report furnished. Necessary permission from Central Ground Water Authority for working below ground water and for pumping of ground water should also be obtained and copy furnished.

28) Details of first order stream, if any passing through lease area and modification/ diversion proposed, if any and the impact of the same on the hydrology should be brought out.

29) Details of rainwater harvesting proposed, if any, in the project should be provided.

30) Information on site elevation, working depth, groundwater table etc. should be provided both in AMSL and bgl. A schematic diagram may also be provided for the same.

31) Quantity of solid waste generation to be estimated and details for its disposal and management should be provided. The quality, volumes and methodology planned for removal and utilisation (preferably concurrently) of top soil should be indicated. Details of backfilling proposed, if any, should also be given. It may be clearly indicated that out of the total waste generated during the mine life, how much quantity would be backfilled and how much quantity would be disposed off in the form of external dump (number of dumps, their height, terraces etc. to be brought out).

32) The reclamation plan, post mine land use and progressive greenbelt development plan shall be prepared in tabular form (prescribed format) and submitted.

33) Impact on local transport infrastructure due to the project should be indicated. Projected increase in truck traffic as a result of the project in the present road network (including those outside the project area) should be worked out, indicating whether it is capable of handling the increased load. Arrangement for improving the infrastructure, if contemplated (including action to be taken by other agencies such as State Government) should be covered.

34) Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the mine workers should be included in the EIA report.

35) Conceptual post mining land use and Reclamation and Rehabilitation of mined out area (with plans and with adequate number of sections) should be given in the EIA report.

36) Phase-wise plan of greenbelt development, plantation and compensatory afforestation should be charted clearly indicating the area to be covered under plantation and the species to be planted.

37) Occupational health impact of project should be anticipated and preventive measures initiated. Details in this regard should be provided. Details of pre-placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules should be incorporated in the EMP.

38) Measures of socio economic significance and influence to the local community proposed to be provided by project proponent should be indicated. As far as possible, quantitative dimensions may be given with time frame for implementation.

39) Detailed environmental management plan to mitigate the environmental impacts which, should inter-alia also include the impact due to change of land use, due to loss of agricultural land and grazing land, if any, occupational health impacts besides other impacts of the projects.

40) Public hearing points raised and commitment of the project proponent on the same along with time bound action plan to implement the same should be provided.

41) Details of litigation pending against the project, if any, with direction /order passed by any Court of Law against the project should be given.

42) The cost of the project (capital cost and recurring cost) as well as the cost towards implementation of EMP should clearly be spelt out.

Besides the above, the below mentioned general points should also be followed:-

a) A note confirming compliance of the TOR, with cross referencing of the relevant sections / pages of the EIA report should be provided.

b) All documents may be properly referenced with index and continuous page numbering.

c) Where data are presented in the report especially in tables, the period in which the data were collected and the sources should be indicated.

d) Where the documents provided are in a language other than English, an English translation should be provided.

e) The Questionnaire for environmental appraisal of mining projects as prescribed by the Ministry shall also be filled and submitted.

f) Approved mine plan along with copy of the approval letter for the proposed capacity should also be submitted.

2.19 Mining Project for Silicate Boulders of M/s Mohunta Mining & Manufacturing Co. Pvt. Ltd., village Mauza Bathri, Tehsil Haroli, District Una, H.P. (Eco Laboratories and Consultants, Mohali)

During consideration of the proposal, it was observed that the mine lease was only for silicate, however, the proponent had proposed to collect other minerals also. The Committee, therefore, desired that the proponent should get the mine lease modified by including all the minerals which are proposed to be excavated / collected and thereafter come back. In the meantime, it was recommended that the file may be closed.

2.20 Banrobar Bauxite Mine of Smt. Leela Devi, village Bonrobar, District Lohardaga, Jharkhand (Consultant: Shiva Test House, Patna)

During consideration of the proposal, it was observed that the application form has been signed and submitted by the environmental consultant and not by the lessee. The lessee was also not present during the meeting. The Committee observed that the application for obtaining TOR/environmental clearance has to be duly signed by the proponent or the authorized representative of the proponent. The environmental consultant cannot act as an authorized representative. The Committee, therefore, did not consider the proposal and recommended for closure of the file.

2.21 Collection of river bed sand from river Yamuna of M/s Surender Kumar Chikkara & Others, village Gauripur, District Baghpat, U.P. (TOR)

The consideration of the project was deferred at the request of the project proponent.

2.22 Collection of river bed sand from river Yamuna of M/s Parvez Ahamd, village Katri Peparkheda, District Unnao, U.P. (TOR)

The consideration of the project was deferred at the request of the project proponent.

2.23 Expansion of Sukinda Chromite Mine (opencast and underground) of M/s Tata Steel Ltd., village Kalarangiatta, Kaliapani and Mahulkhal, Sukinda Tehsil, District Jajpur, Orissa (Consultant: Vimta Labs Ltd., Hyderabad)

The proposal is for enhancement of production of chrome ore to 2.4 million TPA (ROM) and pyroxenite ore (ROM) to 0.5 million TPA, enhancement of chrome concentrate production to 0.6 million TPA, change of technology from opencast mining to underground mining, change in beneficiation technology by introduction of column floatation and magnetic separation techniques, solid / paste disposal of tailings with the introduction of parallel plate filters. It is also proposed to have 73.685 ha of additional area for disposal of solid tailings. The mine lease area is 406 ha. The COB plant is located within mine lease. Additional area of 100 ha for OB dump is just outside the mine lease. Forestry clearance for 100 ha of forestland for dumping was granted in May, 2005. The proposed additional area of 73.685 ha will be away from the mine lease. The mine was earlier granted a combined environment and forestry clearance (for 73.697 ha) in 1998. The compliance status was also seen. The specific issues relating to compliance which emerged during the meeting was (i) exceeding the height of the OB dump beyond the prescribed height of 60 meters and (ii) non stabilization of OB dump. In this regard, it was clarified by the proponent that the waste generated was containing nickel and therefore keeping in view the importance of this mineral, it was being explored whether the nickel could be extracted from the waste. Accordingly, in view of the mineral conservation the dump was not stabilized. The proponent have now started action in this regard and by the time they come for environment clearance, this issue will be addressed. As regards exceeding the height, it was stated that the State Government had reduced their lease area. During the time, their proposal for additional 100 ha for waste disposal was being considered, they had no option but to utilize the existing area for dumping and in the process the height got increased. They have also taken up dump stability study, according to which height of 75 m is found to be stable. The Committee, however, observed that the proponent should have brought the matter before MoEF and should have sought modification of the conditions, if so required based on scientific and technical information/data. The Committee was, however, satisfied with the clarifications provided by the proponent.

Based on the information furnished and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following TORs for undertaking detailed EIA study:-

1) Status of compliance of the earlier EC conditions along with supporting documents and photographs should be submitted.

2) Year-wise production details since 1994 onwards should be given clearly stating the highest production achieved in any one year prior to 1994. It may also be categorically informed whether there had been any increase in production after the EIA Notification, 1994 coming into force w.r.t. the highest production achieved prior to 1994.

3) A copy of the document in support of the fact that the proponent is the rightful lessee of the mine should be given.

5) A detailed note on technology changes should be given in the EIA report.

6) Does the company have a well laid down Environment Policy approved by its Board of Directors? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA report.

7) Does the Environment Policy prescribe for standard operating process /procedures to bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or forest norms / conditions? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA.

10) The study area will comprise of 10 km zone around the mine lease from lease periphery and the data contained in the EIA such as waste generation etc should be for the life of the mine / lease period.

11) Land use of the study area delineating forest area, agricultural land, grazing land, wildlife sanctuary and national park, migratory routes of fauna, water bodies, human settlements and other ecological features should be indicated.

12) Land use plan of the mine lease area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post operational phases and submitted.

13) Details of the land for OB dump outside the mine lease such as extent of land area, distance from mine lease, its land use, R&R issues, if any should be given.

14) High Resolution Satellite Imagery of the proposed area clearly showing the land use and other ecological features of the study area (core and buffer zone) should be provided.

15) A Certificate from the Competent Authority in the State Forest Department should be furnished confirming the involvement of forest land, if any in the project area, or otherwise, based on land use classification (revenue record) as also in terms of the definition of forest as pronounced in the judgement of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in the matter of T.N. Godavarman Vs. Union of India. In the event of any claim by the project proponent regarding the status of forests, the site may be inspected by the State Forest Department along with the Regional Office of the Ministry to ascertain the status of forests, based on which the Certificate in this regard as mentioned above be issued. In all such cases, it would be desirable for representative of the State Forest Department to assist the Expert Appraisal Committees.

16) Status of forestry clearance for the broken up area and virgin forestland involved in the project including deposition of net present value (NPV) and compensatory afforestation (CA) should be indicated. A copy of the forestry clearance should also be furnished.

17) Implementation of status of recognition of forest rights under the Scheduled Tribes and other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.

18) Impact of the project on the wildlife in the surrounding and any other protected area and accordingly detailed mitigative measures required should be worked out with cost implications and submitted.

19) The vegetation in the RF/PF area should be given. Details in this regard should be given.

20) A study shall be got done to ascertain the impact of the mining project on wildlife of the area including on the elephant population and details furnished.

21) Location of National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Corridors, Tiger/Elephant Reserves (existing as well as proposed), if any, within 10 km of the mine lease should be clearly indicated supported by a location map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden Necessary clearance, if any, as may be applicable to such projects due to proximity of the ecologically sensitive areas as mentioned above should be obtained from the State Wildlife Department/ Chief Wildlife Warden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and copy furnished.

22) A detailed biological study for the study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the mine lease)] shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer zone should be furnished based on field survey clearly indicating the Schedule of the fauna present. In case of any scheduled-I fauna found in the study area, the necessary plan for their conservation should be prepared in consultation with State Forest and Wildlife Department and details furnished. Necessary allocation of funds for implementing the same should be made as part of the project cost.

23) Impact of change of land use should be given.

24) R&R plan/compensation details for the project affected people should be furnished. While preparing the R&R plan, the National Rehabilitation & Resettlement Policy should be kept in view. In respect of SCs / STs and other weaker sections, need based sample survey, family-wise, should be undertaken to assess their requirement and action programmes prepared accordingly integrating the sectoral programme of line departments of the State Government.

25) One season (non-monsoon) primary baseline data on ambient air quality (PM₁₀, SO₂ and NOx), water quality, noise level, soil and flora and fauna shall be collected and the AAQ data so collected presented date-wise in the EIA and EMP report. Site-specific meteorological data should also be collected. The location of the monitoring stations should be justified. There should be at least one monitoring station within 500 m of the mine lease in the pre-dominant downwind direction. The mineralogical composition of PM₁₀particularly for chrome and silica should be given.

26) Air quality modeling should be carried out for prediction of impact of the project on the air quality of the area. It should also take into account the impact of movement of vehicles for transportation of mineral. The details of the model used and input parameters used for modeling should be provided. The air quality contours may be shown on a location map clearly indicating the location of the site, location of sensitive receptors, if any and the habitation. The wind roses showing pre-dominant wind direction may also be indicated on the map.

27) Details of waste management from the beneficiation plant should be discussed in detail. Adequacy of the tailing disposal area for the life of the plant should be shown.

28) Details of the slime treatment and their management should be furnished. The safeguard measures for confinement of tailings and slimes should also be given.

29) Proposed treatment of run off from the slimes should be given.

30) Estimation of the chrome going into the washings and its management should be given.

31) Details of the equipment, settling pond etc. should be given.

32) Detailed material balance should be provided.

33) Source of raw material and its transportation should be given. Steps proposed to be taken to protect the ore from getting air borne should be given.

34) Management and disposal of tailings and closure plan of the tailing pond after the project is over should be given.

35) The water requirement for the project, its availability and source to be furnished. A detailed water balance should also be provided. Fresh water requirement for the project should be indicated.

36) Necessary clearance from the Competent Authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided.

37) Details of water conservation measures proposed to be adopted in the project should be given.

38) Impact of the project on the water quality both surface and ground should be assessed and necessary safeguard measures, if any required should be provided.

39) Leachate study should be carried out and results furnished.

40) Chromite content in water in each stream, the total water received, treated and discharged should be given separately.

41) Water budget including run of water from the mine lease area particularly in view of the chromite content in water should be drawn and furnished.

42) Based on actual monitored data, it may clearly be shown whether working will intersect groundwater. Necessary data and documentation in this regard may be provided. In case the working will intersect groundwater table, a detailed hydro geological study should be undertaken and report furnished. Necessary permission from Central Ground Water Authority for working below ground water and for pumping of ground water should also be obtained and copy furnished.

43) Details of first order stream, if any passing through lease area and modification/ diversion proposed, if any and the impact of the same on the hydrology should be brought out.

44) Details of rainwater harvesting proposed, if any, in the project should be provided.

45) Information on site elevation, working depth, groundwater table etc. should be provided both in AMSL and bgl. A schematic diagram may also be provided for the same.

46) Issues relating to mine safety based on subsidence study dumps stability should be detailed. The proposed safeguard measure in this regard should also be provided.

47) Risk assessment should also be carried out which may address the issues relating to inundation of mine and disaster management plan to address any such situation arising.

48) Quantity of solid waste generation to be estimated and details for its disposal and management should be provided. The quality, volumes and methodology planned for removal and utilisation (preferably concurrently) of top soil should be indicated. Details of backfilling proposed, if any, should also be given. It may be clearly indicated that out of the total waste generated during the mine life, how much quantity would be backfilled and how much quantity would be disposed off in the form of external dump (number of dumps, their height, terraces etc. to be brought out).

49) The reclamation plan, post mine land use and progressive greenbelt development plan shall be prepared in tabular form (prescribed format) and submitted.

50) Impact on local transport infrastructure due to the project should be indicated. Projected increase in truck traffic as a result of the project in the present road network (including those outside the project area) should be worked out, indicating whether it is capable of handling the increased load. Arrangement for improving the infrastructure, if contemplated (including action to be taken by other agencies such as State Government) should be covered.

51) Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the mine workers should be included in the EIA report.

52) Conceptual post mining land use and Reclamation and Rehabilitation of mined out area (with plans and with adequate number of sections) should be given in the EIA report.

53) Phase-wise plan of greenbelt development, plantation and compensatory afforestation should be charted clearly indicating the area to be covered under plantation and the species to be planted. The details of plantation already done should be given.

54) Occupational health impact of project should be anticipated and preventive measures initiated. Details in this regard should be provided. Details of pre-placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules should be incorporated in the EMP.

55) Measures of socio economic significance and influence to the local community proposed to be provided by project proponent should be indicated. As far as possible, quantitative dimensions may be given with time frame for implementation.

56) Detailed environmental management plan to mitigate the environmental impacts which, should inter-alia also include the impact due to change of land use, due to loss of agricultural land and grazing land, if any, occupational health impacts besides other impacts of the projects.

57) Public hearing points raised and commitment of the project proponent on the same along with time bound action plan to implement the same should be provided.

58) Details of litigation pending against the project, if any, with direction /order passed by any Court of Law against the project should be given.

59) The cost of the project (capital cost and recurring cost) as well as the cost towards implementation of EMP should clearly be spelt out.

Besides the above, the below mentioned general points should also be followed:-

a) A note confirming compliance of the TOR, with cross referencing of the relevant sections / pages of the EIA report should be provided.

b) All documents may be properly referenced with index and continuous page numbering.

c) Where data are presented in the report especially in tables, the period in which the data were collected and the sources should be indicated.

d) Where the documents provided are in a language other than English, an English translation should be provided.

e) The Questionnaire for environmental appraisal of mining projects as prescribed by the Ministry shall also be filled and submitted.

f) Approved mine plan along with copy of the approval letter for the proposed capacity should also be submitted.

2.24 Iron Ore Beneficiation of Noamundi Iron Mine of M/s Tata Steel Ltd., P.O. Noamundi, District West Singhbhum, Jharkhand (Consultant: Ecoman Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., Lucknow)

The proposal is for renewal of mine lease, which will fall due on January, 2012 for production of 10 million TPA (ROM) of iron ore and expansion of beneficiation plant from 10 million TPA to 18 million TPA. The mine lease area is 1160.06 ha, which includes 762.43 ha of forestland. In addition, 70.36 ha is also part of the project outside the mine lease. Earlier environment clearance was obtained on 26.8.2008. Mine working will be opencast mechanized involving drilling and blasting. The compliance of the earlier conditions was also presented and seen by the Committee. Overall, the Committee was satisfied with the compliance status as presented during the meeting.

Based on the information furnished and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following TORs for undertaking detailed EIA study:-

1) Status of compliance of the earlier EC conditions along with supporting documents and photographs should be submitted.

3) A copy of the document in support of the fact that the proponent is the rightful lessee of the mine should be given.

5) Does the company have a well laid down Environment Policy approved by its Board of Directors? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA report.

6) Does the Environment Policy prescribe for standard operating process/procedures to bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or forest norms / conditions? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA.

11) Land use plan of the mine lease area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post operational phases and submitted.

12) Details of the land for OB dump outside the mine lease such as extent of land area, distance from mine lease, its land use, R&R issues, if any should be given.

13) High Resolution Satellite Imagery of the proposed area clearly showing the land use and other ecological features of the study area (core and buffer zone).

14) A Certificate from the Competent Authority in the State Forest Department confirming the involvement of forest land, if any in the project area, or otherwise, based on land use classification (revenue record) as also in terms of the definition of forest as pronounced in the judgement of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in the matter of T.N. Godavarman Vs. Union of India. In the event of any claim by the project proponent regarding the status of forests, the site may be inspected by the State Forest Department along with the Regional Office of the Ministry to ascertain the status of forests, based on which the Certificate in this regard as mentioned above be issued. In all such cases, it would be desirable for representative of the State Forest Department to assist the Expert Appraisal Committees.

15) Status of forestry clearance for the broken up area and virgin forestland involved in the project including deposition of net present value (NPV) and compensatory afforestation (CA). A copy of the forestry clearance should also be furnished.

16) Implementation of status of recognition of forest rights under the Scheduled Tribes and other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006.

17) Impact of the project on the wildlife in the surrounding and any other protected area and accordingly detailed mitigative measures required should be worked out with cost implications and submitted.

18) The vegetation in the RF / PF area should be given. Details in this regard should be given.

19) A study shall be got done to ascertain the impact of the mining project on wildlife of the area including on the elephant population and details furnished.

20) Location of National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife Corridors, Tiger/Elephant Reserves (existing as well as proposed), if any, within 10 km of the mine lease should be clearly indicated supported by a location map duly authenticated by Chief Wildlife Warden Necessary clearance, if any, as may be applicable to such projects due to proximity of the ecologically sensitive areas as mentioned above should be obtained from the State Wildlife Department/ Chief Wildlife Warden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and copy furnished.

21) A detailed biological study for the study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the mine lease)] shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer zone should be furnished based on field survey clearly indicating the Schedule of the fauna present. In case of any scheduled-I fauna found in the study area, the necessary plan for their conservation should be prepared in consultation with State Forest and Wildlife Department and details furnished. Necessary allocation of funds for implementing the same should be made as part of the project cost.

22) Impact of change of land use should be given.

23) R&R plan / compensation details for the project affected people should be furnished. While preparing the R&R plan, the National Rehabilitation & Resettlement Policy should be kept in view. In respect of SCs / STs and other weaker sections, need based sample survey, family-wise, should be undertaken to assess their requirement and action programmes prepared accordingly integrating the sectoral programme of line departments of the State Government.

24) One season (non-monsoon) primary baseline data on ambient air quality (PM₁₀, SO₂ and NOx), water quality, noise level, soil and flora and fauna shall be collected and the AAQ data so collected presented date-wise in the EIA and EMP report. Site-specific meteorological data should also be collected. The location of the monitoring stations should be justified. There should be at least one monitoring station within 500 m of the mine lease in the pre-dominant downwind direction.

25) Air quality modeling should be carried out for prediction of impact of the project on the air quality of the area. It should also take into account the impact of movement of vehicles for transportation of mineral. The details of the model used and input parameters used for modeling should be provided. The air quality contours may be shown on a location map clearly indicating the location of the site, location of sensitive receptors, if any and the habitation. The wind roses showing pre-dominant wind direction may also be indicated on the map.

26) The water requirement for the project, its availability and source to be furnished. A detailed water balance should also be provided. Fresh water requirement for the project should be indicated.

27) Necessary clearance from the Competent Authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided.

28) Details of water conservation measures proposed to be adopted in the project should be given.

29) Impact of the project on the water quality both surface and groundwater should be assessed and necessary safeguard measures, if any required should be provided.

30) Based on actual monitored data, it may clearly be shown whether working will intersect groundwater. Necessary data and documentation in this regard may be provided. In case the working will intersect groundwater table, a detailed hydro geological study should be undertaken and report furnished. Necessary permission from Central Ground Water Authority for working below ground water and for pumping of ground water should also be obtained and copy furnished.

31) Details of first order stream, if any passing through lease area and modification/ diversion proposed, if any and the impact of the same on the hydrology should be brought out.

32) Details of rainwater harvesting proposed, if any, in the project should be provided.

33) Information on site elevation, working depth, groundwater table etc. should be provided both in AMSL and bgl. A schematic diagram may also be provided for the same.

34) Quantity of solid waste generation to be estimated and details for its disposal and management should be provided. The quality, volumes and methodology planned for removal and utilisation (preferably concurrently) of top soil should be indicated. Details of backfilling proposed, if any, should also be given. It may be clearly indicated that out of the total waste generated during the mine life, how much quantity would be backfilled and how much quantity would be disposed off in the form of external dump (number of dumps, their height, terraces etc. to be brought out).

35) Size distribution of the iron ore with percentage weight shall also be done to assess the source of fugitive dust emission of the ore feed to the plant.

36) Measures to manage the under size / over-size waste from the feed ore shall be provided.

37) Details of the solid waste to be generated and its management. Adequacy of the tailing pond for the life of the beneficiation plant should be provided with supporting data and documentation. Design and capacity of tailing pond should be such as to guard against overflow from the tailing pond during heavy rainfall. The provision of lining, nature of lining with supporting permeability studies should also be provided.

38) Proposed treatment of run off from the fines/waste dump should be provided.

39) Estimation of the fines going into the washings and its management should be given.

40) Details of the equipment, settling pond etc. should be provided.

41) Detailed material balance to be provided.

42) Source of raw material and its transportation should be given. Steps proposed to be taken to protect the ore from getting air borne to be given.

43) Management and disposal of tailings and closure plan of the tailing pond, if any, after the project is over, should be provided.

44) The reclamation plan, post mine land use and progressive greenbelt development plan shall be prepared in tabular form (prescribed format) and submitted.

45) Impact on local transport infrastructure due to the project should be indicated. Projected increase in truck traffic as a result of the project in the present road network (including those outside the project area) should be worked out, indicating whether it is capable of handling the increased load. Arrangement for improving the infrastructure, if contemplated (including action to be taken by other agencies such as State Government) should be covered.

46) Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the mine workers should be included in the EIA report.

47) Conceptual post mining land use and Reclamation and Rehabilitation of mined out area (with plans and with adequate number of sections) should be given in the EIA report.

48) Phase-wise plan of greenbelt development, plantation and compensatory afforestation should be charted clearly indicating the area to be covered under plantation and the species to be planted. The details of plantation already done should be given.

49) Occupational health impact of project should be anticipated and preventive measures initiated. Details in this regard should be provided. Details of pre-placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules should be incorporated in the EMP.

50) Measures of socio economic significance and influence to the local community proposed to be provided by project proponent should be indicated. As far as possible, quantitative dimensions may be given with time frame for implementation.

51) Detailed environmental management plan to mitigate the environmental impacts which, should inter-alia also include the impact due to change of land use, due to loss of agricultural land and grazing land, if any, occupational health impacts besides other impacts of the projects.

52) Public hearing points raised and commitment of the project proponent on the same along with time bound action plan to implement the same should be provided.

53) Details of litigation pending against the project, if any, with direction /order passed by any Court of Law against the project should be given.

54) The cost of the project (capital cost and recurring cost) as well as the cost towards implementation of EMP should clearly be spelt out.

Besides the above, the below mentioned general points should also be followed:-

a) A note confirming compliance of the TOR, with cross referencing of the relevant sections / pages of the EIA report should be provided.

b) All documents may be properly referenced with index and continuous page numbering.

c) Where data are presented in the report especially in tables, the period in which the data were collected and the sources should be indicated.

d) Where the documents provided are in a language other than English, an English translation should be provided.

e) The Questionnaire for environmental appraisal of mining projects as prescribed by the Ministry shall also be filled and submitted.

f) Approved mine plan along with copy of the approval letter for the proposed capacity should also be submitted.

2.25 China Clay Mining Project of M/s D.M. Minerals Pvt. Ltd., Village Gondkida, P.S. Kumardungi, District West Singhbhum, Jharkhand (TOR)

The consideration of the project was deferred at the request of the project proponent.

2.26 China Clay Mining Project of M/s D.M. Minerals Pvt. Ltd., village Gondkida, P.S. Kumardungi, District West Singhbhum, Jharkhand (TOR)

The consideration of the project was deferred at the request of the project proponent.

2.27 Khapa Pardiwar Manganese Ore Mine of M/s Modern Mineral Industry, village Khapa Pardiwar, Tehsil Sausar, District Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh (TOR)

The consideration of the project was deferred as the project proponent did not attend the meeting.

2.28 Manganese Ore Mine of M/s Modern Mineral Industry, village Madkasur, Tehsil Bichwa, District Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh (TOR)

The consideration of the project was deferred as the project proponent did not attend the meeting.

2.29 Iron Ore Beneficiation Plant with pelletisation plant of M/s Divyajyothi Steels Ltd., village Taranagar, Sandur Taluk, District Bellary, Karnataka (Consultant: Global Environment and Mining Services, Hospet)

The proposal is for setting up of a iron ore beneficiation plant with a throughput capacity of 0.6 million TPA along with pelletisation plant of 0.4 million TPA. The proposal was last considered in the EAC meeting held on May 25-27, 2011; however, due to lack of information with regard to site coordinates, the consideration of the proposal was deferred. The land requirement for the project is 20.48 ha. No forestland is involved. Narihalla dam is reported to be at 3.5 km. It was stated by the project proponent that the filter press technology will be adopted. It was also stated that tails cake will be stacked in tailing dump area and used in brick manufacturing. The site coordinates are 15⁰ 07’ 20.2” – 15⁰ 07’ 45.2” N and 76⁰ 38’ 01.8” – 76⁰ 38’ 34.8” E.

Based on the information furnished and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following TORs for undertaking detailed EIA study:-

1) The alternate sites considered, the relative merits and demerits and the reasons for selecting the proposed site may be furnished.

2) Does the company have a well laid down Environment Policy approved by its Board of Directors? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA report.

3) Does the Environment Policy prescribe for standard operating process/procedures to bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or forest norms / conditions? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA.

4) What is the hierarchical system or Administrative order of the company to deal with the environmental issues and for ensuring compliance with the EC conditions. Details of this system may be given.

5) Does the company have a system of reporting of non compliances / violations of environmental norms to the Board of Directors of the company and / or shareholders or stakeholders at large? This reporting mechanism should be detailed in the EIA report.

6) Details of the technology and process involved in the project may be given.

7) The study area will comprise of 10 km zone around the project area and the data contained in the EIA such as waste generation etc should be for the life of the project.

8) Size distribution of the iron ore with percentage weight (Particulate size analysis) shall also be done to assess the source of fugitive dust emission of the ore feed to the plant.

9) Measures to manage the over size waste from the feed ore shall be provided.

10) Details of the solid waste to be generated and its management should be described. The State of the art technology in this regard and supporting documents and literature in support thereof, to show that such a technology is being adopted successfully in other parts of the World or in the country anywhere, should be given. The related environmental issues associated such technology including the incremental requirement of power in adopting such technology vis-a-vis other technologies should also be discussed in the EIA report. Management of fines and mitigation measures to control these fines from getting airborne should also be discussed.

11) Land use of the study area should be indicated delineating forest area, agricultural land, grazing land, wildlife sanctuary and national park, migratory routes of fauna, water bodies, human settlements and other ecological features.

12) The land requirement should be optimized and furnished.

13) Land use plan of the project area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post operational phases.

14) Location of the proposed plant w.r.t. the source of raw material and mode of transportations of the ore from mines to the beneficiation plant should be brought out.

15) Treatment of run off water/affluents from the fines/waste dump should be described.

16) Estimation of the fines going into the washings and its management should be made.

17) Details of the equipment, settling pond etc. should be provided.

18) Detailed material balance should be provided.

19) Source of raw material and its transportation should be indicated. Steps proposed to be taken to protect the ore from getting air borne should be furnished.

20) Management and disposal of tailings/filter press cake and closure plan of the tailing pond, if any, after the project is over should be given.

21) Biological as well as health impact of fines and other dust generated in the plant should be studied with reference to National and International Standards (WHO and ILO standards including CPCB norms). The proposed mitigation measures with EMP should also be provided.

22) Location of National Parks, Sanctuaries, Biosphere Reserves, Wildlife corridors, Tiger/Elephant reserves (existing as well as proposed), if any, within 10 km of the mine lease should be clearly indicated. Necessary clearance, if any, as may be applicable to such projects due to proximity of the ecologically sensitive areas as mentioned above should be obtained from the State Wildlife Department/ Chief Wildlife Warden under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and copy furnished.

23) A detailed biological study for the study area [core zone and buffer zone (10 km radius of the periphery of the mine lease)] shall be carried out. Details of flora and fauna, duly authenticated, separately for core and buffer zone should be furnished based on field survey clearly indicating the Schedule of the fauna present. In case of any scheduled-I fauna found in the study area, the necessary plan for their conservation should be prepared in consultation with State Forest and Wildlife Department and details furnished. Necessary allocation of funds for implementing the same should be made as part of the project cost.

24) R&R plan / compensation details for the project affected people, if any, should be given.

25) Collection of one season (non-monsoon) primary baseline data on ambient air quality, water quality, noise level, soil and flora and fauna should be carried out and included in the EIA report. Site-specific meteorological data should also be collected and included in the EIA report. The location of the monitoring stations should be justified keeping in view the pre-dominant down wind direction and location of sensitive receptors. The baseline data already collected could be utilized provided it meets the monitoring protocol.

26) Air quality modeling should be carried out for prediction of impact of the project on the air quality of the area and results furnished in the EIA report. It should also take into account the impact of movement of vehicles for transportation of mineral. The details of the model used and input parameters used for modeling should be provided. The air quality contours may be shown on a location map clearly indicating the location of the site, location of sensitive receptors, if any and the habitation. The wind roses showing pre-dominant wind direction may also be indicated on the map. The modelling should also take into account the impact due to operation of generator sets to meet the emergency power requirement for the project.

27) Details of maximum inventory of fuel for the generator sets to be stored at site, if any, and its associated risk analysis in the worst case scenario should be given. The risk contours should be plotted on the location map.

28) The water requirement for the project, its availability and source to be furnished. A detailed water balance should also be provided. Fresh water requirement for the project should also be indicated.

29) Necessary clearance from the Competent Authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided.

30) Details of water conservation measures proposed to be adopted in the project should be furnished.

31) Impact of the project on the water quality both surface and groundwater should be assessed and necessary safeguard measures, if any required, should be provided.

32) Details of rainwater harvesting proposed, if any, in the project should be provided.

33) Quantity of solid waste generation to be estimated and details for its disposal and management should be provided.

34) Impact on local transport infrastructure due to the project should be studied and results provided. Projected increase in truck traffic as a result of the project in the present road network (including those outside the project area) and whether it is capable of handling the increased load should be given. Arrangement for improving the infrastructure, if contemplated including action to be taken by other agencies such as State Government, if any, should be covered.

35) Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the workers should be detailed.

36) Phase-wise plan of greenbelt development, plantation and compensatory afforestation clearly indicating the area to be covered under plantation and the species to be planted should be detailed. The details of plantation already done should also be given.

37) Occupational health impact of the project should be furnished. Details of pre-placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules should be incorporated in the EMP.

38) Measures of socio economic influence to the local community proposed to be provided by project proponent should be given. As far as possible, quantitative dimension to be given.

39) Detailed environmental management plan to mitigate the environmental impacts due to the project should be furnished.

40) Public hearing points raised and commitment of the project proponent on the same should be given in the EIA.

41) Any litigation pending against the project and /or any direction /order passed by any Court of Law against the project, if so, details thereof should be given in the EIA report.

42) The cost of the project (capital cost and recurring cost) as well as the cost towards implementation of EMP should clearly be spelt out.

Besides the above, the below mentioned general points are also to be followed:-

a) All documents to be properly referenced with index and continuous page numbering.

b) Where data are presented in the report especially in tables, the period in which the data were collected and the sources should be indicated.

c) Where the documents provided are in a language other than English, an English translation should be provided.

d) The Questionnaire for environmental appraisal of industrial projects as devised earlier by the Ministry shall also be filled and submitted.

e) While preparing the EIA report, the instructions for the proponents and instructions for the consultants issued by MoEF vide O.M. No. J-11013/41/2006-IA.II(I) dated 4^th August, 2009, which are available on the website of this Ministry, should also be followed.

2.30 Manganese & Iron Ore Beneficiation Plant of M/s VSL Enterprises, Village Yeshwanthnagar, Sandur Taluk, District Bellary, Karnataka (Consultant: Global Environment and Mining Services, Hospet)

The proposal is for setting up of a manganese and iron ore beneficiation plant with a throughput capacity of 0.2 million TPA each (total throughput 0.4 million TPA). The proposal was last considered in the EAC meeting held on May 25-27, 2011; however, due to lack of information with regard to site coordinates, the consideration of the proposal was deferred. The land requirement for the project is 3.94 ha. No forestland is involved. It was stated by the project proponent that the filter press technology will be adopted. It was also stated that tails cake will be stacked in tailing dump area and used in cement/brick manufacturing. The site coordinates are 15⁰ 01’ 39.0” – 15⁰ 01’ 46.9” N and 76⁰ 30’ 29.7” – 76⁰ 30’ 38.6” E.

Based on the information furnished and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following TORs for undertaking detailed EIA study:-

1) The alternate sites considered, the relative merits and demerits and the reasons for selecting the proposed site may be furnished.

2) Does the company have a well laid down Environment Policy approved by its Board of Directors? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA report.

6) Details of the technology and process involved in the project, separately for iron ore and manganese may be given.

7) The study area will comprise of 10 km zone around the project area and the data contained in the EIA such as waste generation etc should be for the life of the project.

8) Size distribution of the iron ore and manganese with percentage weight (Particulate size analysis) shall also be done to assess the source of fugitive dust emission of the ore feed to the plant.

9) Measures to manage the over size waste from the feed ore shall be provided.

10) Details of the solid waste to be generated, separately for manganese and iron ore and its management should be described. The State of the art technology in this regard and supporting documents and literature in support thereof, to show that such a technology is being adopted successfully in other parts of the World or in the country anywhere, should be given. The related environmental issues associated such technology including the incremental requirement of power in adopting such technology vis-a-vis other technologies should also be discussed in the EIA report. Management of fines and mitigation measures to control these fines from getting airborne should also be discussed.

12) The land requirement should be optimized and furnished.

13) Land use plan of the project area should be prepared to encompass pre-operational, operational and post operational phases.

14) Location of the proposed plant w.r.t. the source of raw material and mode of transportations of the ore from mines to the beneficiation plant should be brought out.

15) Treatment of run off water/effluents from the fines/waste dump separately for iron ore and manganese ore should be described.

16) Estimation of the fines going into the washings and its management separately for iron ore and manganese ore should be made.

17) Details of the equipment, settling pond etc. should be provided.

18) Detailed material balance should be provided.

19) Source of raw material and its transportation should be indicated. Steps proposed to be taken to protect the ore from getting air borne should be furnished.

20) Management and disposal of tailings/filter press cake separately for iron ore and manganese ore and closure plan of the tailing pond, if any, after the project is over should be given.

24) R&R plan / compensation details for the project affected people, if any, should be given.

29) Necessary clearance from the Competent Authority for drawl of requisite quantity of water for the project should be provided.

30) Details of water conservation measures proposed to be adopted in the project should be furnished.

31) Impact of the project on the water quality both surface and groundwater should be assessed and necessary safeguard measures, if any required, should be provided.

32) Details of rainwater harvesting proposed, if any, in the project should be provided.

33) Quantity of solid waste generation to be estimated separately for iron ore and manganese ore and details for its disposal and management should be provided.

35) Details of the infrastructure facilities to be provided for the workers should be detailed.

37) Occupational health impact of the project should be furnished. It may specifically include the issues relating to manganese poising. Details of pre-placement medical examination and periodical medical examination schedules should be incorporated in the EMP.