MINUTES OF THE 32nd MEETING OF RE-CONSTITUTED EXPERT APPRAISAL COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THERMAL POWER AND COAL MINE PROJECTS

 

 

The 30th Meeting of the reconstituted Expert Appraisal Committee (Thermal) was held during September 12-13, 2011 at Fazal Hall at SCOPE Convention Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi. The members present were:

 

1.                 Shri V.P. Raja                                             -        Chairman

2.                 Dr. C.R. Babu                                             -        Vice-Chairman

3.                 Shri T.K. Dhar                                            -        Member

4.                 Shri J.L. Mehta                                          -        Member

5.                 Dr. G.S. Roonwal                                        -        Member

6.                 Dr. S.D. Attri                                              -        Member

7.                 Shri M.S. Puri                                             -        Member

8.                 Shri V.B. Mathur                                        -        Member

9.                 Dr. K.K.S. Bhatia                                        -        Member

10.            Dr. P.L. Ahujarai                                       -        Member Secretary

 

Dr. CBS Dutt, Member  and Member Secretary CPCB were absent.

 

In attendance:  Sh. W. Bharat Singh, Deputy Director, MoEF.

 

 

The deliberations held and the decisions taken are as under:

 

 

DATE: 12.09.2011.

 

 

ITEM No.1  CONFIRMATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING.

 

The Minutes of the 30th Meeting held during August8-9, 2011 was confirmed with minor amendments.

 

The Committee was also informed of a letter written by M/s Jaiprakash Associates Ltd. dated 20.12.2010 to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) for its 2x60 MW Captive TPP in Sidhi Distt., in Madhya Pradesh, wherein status of project was submitted. In the aforesaid letter M/s Jaiprakash Associates Ltd. had informed to CEA the following:

 

i)                   Civil Construction: 85% of work has been completed and balance 15% is in progress. Expected completion date is January 2011.

ii)                 Boiler & ESP-1:   

 

The Committee noted the above and decided that the Ministry may take up the matter in accordance with the procedures and policy decision taken in such matters.

 

 

2.0    Presentation on Fly Ash Utilisation by Dr. Vimal Kumar, Department of Science & Technology.

 

A presentation was made by Dr. Vimal Kumar, Scientist ‘G’ and Head, Fly Ash Unit, Department of Science & Technology on Fly Ash Utilisation. Dr. Sonu Singh, Deputy Director, Ministry of Environment & Forests dealing with fly ash notification was also present.

 

Dr. Vimal Kumar while advocating the promotion of utilization of fly ash in:  (i) agriculture; (ii) reclamation of low lying areas; and (iii) mine filling, also emphasized the importance of detailed analysis required for determination of fly ash characteristics before such an option is undertaken.

 

During the presentation, Members based on past experiences made an important observation that data on bio-physical features of soil was not available, which is of primary and utmost importance before advocating promotion of fly ash for utilization in agriculture field. It was pointed out that over a period of time due to weathering action heavy metals or radio activity content increases manifold when fly ash is left open in fields. It was, therefore, of paramount importance that a detailed study on DNA damage in the plant tissues growing in the area needs necessarily to be carried out before advocating promotion of fly ash for utilization in agriculture, reclamation of low lying areas as mine void filling.

 

A member even pointed out that in the United Kingdom a particular abandoned ash pond disposal area was banned for even livestock grazing due to impact of heavy metal / radio activity in the food chain.

 

Members were of the unanimous view that a detailed study of ash from source i.e. coal mine would be more relevant than studying characteristics of ash generated from thermal power plants which sometimes gets coal from many mines. Recent studies also demonstrated that plants grown on fly ash ponds accumulates heavy metals such as arsenic, nickel, lead which cause geno-toxicity or DNA damage. Consequently more long term study on effect of fly ash on biota and human beings needs to be studied in detail.

 

Dr. Vimal Kumar, however, stated that studies carried out have been done over a period ranging from 2 to 5 years in some thermal power stations and as such the weathering action, if any, would have been captured in the final resultant analysis.

 

The Committee during the course of detailed deliberations, however, felt that there were conflicting views on the issue of ash utilization irrespective of the utilization mechanism provided in the fly ash notification issued by the Ministry and was therefore of the opinion that all scientific papers available in support and against need to be firmly scrutinized by various experts in the field before a view is taken by the Expert Appraisal Committee for thermal power and coal mining projects.

 

 

2.0    CONSIDERATION OF PROJECTS

 

2.1    Expansion by addition of 300 TPH Coal Based High Pressures Boiler along with 36 MW Back Pressure Turbine Generator (BPTG) Thermal Power Plant of  M/s Bokaro Power Supply Company (P) Limited (A joint of venture of SAIL and DVC) in  Chas Taluk, in Bokaro Distt., in Jharkhand               - reg.  Environmental Clearance.

 

The proposal is for consideration for environmental clearance. The project proponent made a presentation along with its consultant M/s Mecon Ltd., Ranchi and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for expansion by addition of 300 TPH Coal based high pressures boiler along with 36 MW Back Pressure Turbine Generator (BPTG) Thermal Power Plant in Chas Taluk, in Bokaro Distt., in Jharkhand. Land requirement will be 5.9 hectares, which is within the existing premises of the power plant inside Bokaro Steel Plant. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 23040’48” N to 23041’26” N and Longitude 86005’22” E to 86006’00”E. Domestic coal requirement will be 0.4161 MTPA. Coal will be obtained from CCL coal mine. Area requirement for ash pond/dyke will be 10,38,000 m2. The co-ordinates of the ash pond/dyke site are at Latitude 23040’39”N to 23041’45”N and Longitude 86006’01”E to 86006’44”E. A total of 0.1025 MTPA fly ash will be generated and 0.0256 MTPA of bottom ash will be generated. Ash and sulphur contents in coal will be 36.05% and 0.44% respectively. Fly ash will be supplied to M/s Jaypee Cement. Stack height will be 180 m. Water requirement will be 107.6 T/hr and sourced from the existing Cooling Pond No. 1 of Bokaro Steel Plant through a pipeline over a distance of 100 m from project site. There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. Cost of the project will be Rs 348.62 Crores.

 

The Committee noted that the word ‘Private’ in the name of the company appear to be a private organization and therefore desired details regarding  Articles of Association; Memorandum of Association; Certificate of company incorporation etc. be submitted for its perusal.

 

During deliberation it was noted that the project proponent have not complied with the requirements prescribed in the terms of reference for preparation of EIA/EMP for the present proposal. The Committee therefore decided that the project proponent shall first submit revised EIA/EMP as per TOR prescribed and shall come back with point-wise compliance to the TOR prescribed for the proposal.

 

The Committee further noted that compliance to conditions stipulated for the environmental clearance for the existing captive power plant (as may be applicable) shall also be submitted.

 

In view of the above the Committee decided that the proposal is pre-mature for consideration and accordingly deferred the proposal for re-consideration at a later stage.

 

 

2.2    3x400 MW Gas Based Combined Cycle Power Project of M/s Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation Ltd. at village Cheemei, in Hosdurg Taluk, in Kasaragod Distt., in Kerala - reg.  Environmental Clearance.

 

The proposal is for consideration for environmental clearance. The project proponent made a presentation along with its consultant M/s Ramky Enviro Engineers Ltd., Hyderabad and provided the following information:

 

The present proposal is for setting up of 3x400 MW Gas Based Combined Cycle Power Project at village Cheemei, in Hosdurg Taluk, in Kasaragod Distt., in Kerala. Earlier the proposal was for 2x660 MW Super-Critical Coal Based TPP and 3x400 MW Gas Based CCPP. The project proponent later decided to drop the 2x660 MW Coal Based TPP and accordingly TOR prescribed was reiterated for only 3x400 MW Gas Based CCPP. Land requirement for the present proposal will be 200 acres, which is revenue land. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 12013’13” N to 12013’55”N and Longitude 75014’17” E to 75015’01” E.  Natural gas requirement will be 5.11 MMSCMD. Stack height will be 75 m. Air cooled condenser will be installed. Water requirement will be 3.40 MLD and will be sourced from the Kariangod River through a pipeline at a distance of 3 km from project site. There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. Kinanur RF is located at 10 Km from Project site. Public hearing was conducted on 15.06.2011. Cost of the project will be Rs 4756.37 Crores.

 

The Committee noted that not only MoU with gas supplier is not in place but the project proponent is also uncertain of the blend of domestic gas and RLG reported to be 60% and 30% respectively. The Committee therefore decided that the case is pre-mature for consideration and informed the project proponent that they shall also examine the Report on Western Ghat Panel chaired by Prof. Madhav Gadgil and accordingly incorporate its recommendations, as may be applicable in their case. The proposal was accordingly deferred for re-consideration at a later stage.

 

2.3    3x660 MW Super Critical Imported Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Welspun Energy Madhya Pradesh Ltd. at Villages Bujbuja and Dokariya, in Barhi and Vijayaraghavgarh Taluks, in Katni Distt., in Madhya Pradesh   - reg.  Environmental Clearance.

 

The proposal is for consideration for environmental clearance. The project proponent made a presentation along with its consultant M/s Vimta Labs Ltd., Hyderabad and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 3x660 MW Super Critical Coal Based Thermal Power Plant at Villages Bujbuja and Dokariya, in Barhi and Vijayaraghavgarh Taluks, in Katni Distt., in Madhya Pradesh. Earlier the proposal was based on domestic coal, but due to non availability of domestic coal as an interim arrangement, the project proponent desires to go ahead with imported coal from Indonesia. Land requirement will be 1200 acres, which is mostly un-irrigated agricultural land (819.10 acres). Out of total land required, 538 acres will be used for Main Plant; 270 acres for ash disposal; 32 acres will be used for Colony; and 360 acres will be used for green belt. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 23054’0.62” N to 23055’13.83” N and Longitude 80045’21.61” E to 80046’44.49”E. Imported coal will be from Indonesia. Imported coal requirement will be 7.8 MTPA. Coal supply agreement for imported coal has stated to having been signed with M/s Oorja Resources India Pvt. Ltd for 6.0 MTPA and M/s PT Batubara Energy Indonesia for 2.0 MTPA. Coal will be imported through Haldia / Paradip or Damara Port. The co-ordinates of the ash pond/dyke site are at Latitude 23053’2.68”N to 23055’13.36”N and Longitude 80045’25.52”E to 80046’2.95”E. About 1.09 MTPA fly ash and 0.87 MTPA of bottom ash will be generated. Fly ash will be supplied to M/s Prism Cement. Water requirement will be 5800m3/hr and will be sourced from the Bansagar Dam through a pipeline at a distance of about 10 km from project site. Mahanadi River flows at about 6.0 Km from the site. There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. Buffer zone of Bandavgarh Tiger Reserves is at about 10.6 Kms. Public hearing was held on 11.03.2011. Cost of the project will be Rs 9009.28 Crores.

 

The project proponent informed that they have acquired a coal mine in Indonesia and distance from Port in India to the project site about 900 kms. The Committee noted that information pertaining to inland transportation from coal mine in Indonesia to the Port in Indonesia was not available which would have enabled the Committee in assessing the economics and viability of the project. It was also noted that information on facilities for handling of coal in the ports in India cited for import of coal has not been provided. The Committee further noted that rail transportation from Port in India to the project site may have many bottle-necks and adequate information (rolling stocks and track movements) on the same was also not available.

 

In view of the above, the Committee desired that fair amount of in-depth study is required and informed the project proponent to provide the information.

 

It was also emphasized that a scenario building on feasibility of coal transport related issues, both for imported coal (from mine in Indonesia to project site) as well as for domestic coal, shall be carried out by the project proponent.

 

The Committee also desired to have futuristic plan of the Welspun Energy Group in the power sector.

 

On perusal of the documents made available it was noted that 43.3 % of the population in the study area comprised SCs/STs and the Committee observed that tribal rights (as applicable) shall be safe guarded by the project proponent.

 

The AAQ data presented was also noted to have low values of SO2 and NOx. It was decided that Dr. S.D. Attri, Member (EAC) shall examine the revised data to be presented by the PP and shall report the findings to the Committee.

 

Regarding water quality data it was noted that fluoride level appeared to be quite high in the seasonal nallah and a root cause analysis is required to be furnished.

 

The Committee also noted that a writ petition has also been filed in the High Court of Judicature at Jabalpur against the State Govt. regarding signing of MoU and environment issues. The status of the case to be informed to the Committee.

 

The Committee also discussed the issues raised in the Public Hearing proceedings and the responses made by the project proponent. The major issues were regarding impact on population and flora and fauna due to the proposed project; source of water; provision of employment to the locals; drinking water; dust generation due to transportation of coal and fly ash; R & R for PAPs; EIA report not available in website of Pollution Control Board etc.

 

In view of the various observations made by the Committee, as noted in the preceding paragraphs, it was decided that a view would be taken only after receipt of appropriate information as cited.

 

2.4       Modernization & Modification existing Boiler (36 TPH) & Installation of 6 MW Turbine for Captive Thermal Power Plant of M/s Sidharth Papers Ltd. at Village Basai, in Kashipur Taluk, in Udham Singh Nagar, in Uttarakhand -  reg. TOR.

 

and

2.5       Modernization & Modification in the existing Boiler (45TPH,AFBC) for multiple fuel firing used for 6.0 MW CPP of M/s Siddheshwari Paper Udyog Ltd at 7th km, Moradabad Road,  in Kashipur Taluk, in Udham Singh Nagar, in Uttarakhand -  reg. TOR.

 

The above two proposals were considered in sequel as both are of similar nature and located around the same area belonging to the same project proponent.

 

The proposals were considered for determination of TOR for undertaking EIA/EMP study as per provisions of EIA Notification, 2006. The project proponent along with its consultant M/s Grass Roots Research and Creation India (p) Ltd. gave a presentation and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is an Inter-State case and therefore, is being considered at the Centre.

 

The proposal is for modernization & modification of existing Boiler (36 TPH) for multiple fuel firing & Installation of 6 MW Turbine for Captive Thermal Power Plant within the existing Paper manufacturing unit at village Basai, in Kashipur Taluk, in Udham Singh Nagar, in Uttarakhand. Land requirement will be 4.49 acres, which is within existing Paper manufacturing unit. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 29011’34” N to Longitude 78053’56” E. Fuel will be Rice Husk, Bagasse and Coal. Rice husk requirement will be 240 TPD; Bagasse Requirement will be 216 TPD and Coal requirement will be 190 TPD. AFBC Boiler is proposed to be installed. Water requirement will be 367200 cum per annum. 22,500 TPA ash will be generated. There are no National parks, Wildlife sanctuaries, Tiger/Biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site.

 

The project proponent stated that they want to go for 100% coal based fuel option for 4 months when other fuel will not be available. The Committee deliberated on this and decided that this cannot be agreed to only 15% coal shall be used as fuel. It was also decided that the proposal shall have to be revised to a purely Bio-Mass plant with coal restriction to 15%.

 

The Committee accordingly decided that the project proponent shall revise its proposal and re-submit Form-I and feasibility report and come back at a later stage. Accordingly the proposal was deferred.

 

 

2.6       2x660 MW Super Critical Coal Based  Thermal Power Plant  of M/s TR Energy Ventures Pvt. Ltd. near Keezh Tiruchendur, in Triuchendurr Taluk, in Thoothukkudi Distt., in Tamil Nadu -  reg. TOR.

 

The proposal was considered for determination of terms of reference for undertaking EIA/EMP study as per provisions of EIA Notification, 2006. The project proponent along with its consultant M/s B.S Envi-Tech (P) Ltd (Nabet/QCI Accredited) gave a presentation and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 2x660 MW Super Critical Coal Based Thermal Power Plant near Keezh Tiruchendur, in Triuchendurr Taluk, in Thoothukkudi Distt., in Tamil Nadu. Land requirement will be 1000 acres, which is open scrub land with coconut plantations and partly single crop rainfed agricultural land. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 8027’22.20” N to 8028’48.72” N and Longitude 7804’1.62” E to 7805’58.97” E. Coal will be Blended (domestic and imported) or 100% imported.  Imported Coal requirement will be 5.48 MTPA. Blended coal requirement will be 6.065 MTPA. Water requirement will be 3,75,000 cum./day, which will be obtained from Karamaniyar River/Bay of Bengal through a pipeline at a distance of 3km and 1.5 Km respectively. About 200-300 people will be affected from this project. Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is located at about 20 Kms from the proposed site. Sea is at about 1.0 kms. An old temple of archealogical importance is located at about 4.0 Kms. There are no National parks, Wildlife sanctuaries, Tiger/Biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site.

 

The Committee noted that the site selected prima facie appears to be located close to a fragile eco system and desired that more site selection shall be carried out. It was also decided that the project proponent shall try to obtain topo sheet of appropriate scale. It was also informed by the project proponent that Udangadi Thermal Power Project is proposed to be located very close to the proponent’s proposed site.

 

The Committee therefore decided that the file pertaining to Udangadi TPP should also be linked to the present proposal to obtain appropriate information. Accordingly the proposal was deferred for re-consideration at a later stage.

 

 

 2.7      2x250 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Valecha Infrastructure Ltd.  at Village Nasirabad, in Nepanagar Taluk, in Burhanpur Distt., in Madhya Pradesh -  reg. TOR.

 

The proposal was considered for determination of terms of reference for undertaking EIA/EMP study as per provisions of EIA Notification, 2006. The project proponent along with its consultant M/s J.M. EnviroNet Pvt. Ltd. gave a presentation and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 2x250 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Plant at village Nasirabad, in Nepanagar Taluk, in Burhanpur Distt., in Madhya Pradesh. Land requirement will be 192.5 hectares which comprises of 96.25 ha of Govt. land and 96.25 ha of private land. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 21022’58.10” N to 21024’09.02” N and Longitude 76017’07.41” E to 76018’41.26” E. Coal requirement will be 2.48 MTPA. Coal will be Domestic or imported. Area requirement for ash pond dyke will be 45 acres. Water requirement will be 15 MCM, which will be obtained from Tapti River through a pipeline at a distance of 0.5 Km from Project site. About 79 Land oustees will be affected. There are no National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tiger/Biosphere Reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. Chandni R.F, Samriya R.F, Mangrul PF and Asir R.F are located at distances of 0.6 Km, 6.3 km, 2.2 Km and 6 Km respectively from the project site.

 

The Committee noted that not only is the proposed site located very close to Tapti River (500 m) but also does not meet the environmental criteria for citing of thermal power plants. It was noted that railway line runs very close to the site (at about 200 m) with several reserve forests all around. The Committee therefore expressed its inability to recommend the site for TOR and decided that the project proponent shall identify alternative acceptable sites. Accordingly the proposal was deferred for re-consideration at a later stage.

 

 

2.8       2x75 MW Coal Based Dugda FBC Thermal Power Plant of M/s Bharat Coking Coal Ltd. at village Dugda, in Dugda Taluk, in Bokaro Distt., in Jharkhand -  reg. TOR.

 

The proposal was considered for determination of terms of reference for undertaking EIA/EMP study as per provisions of EIA Notification, 2006. The project proponent gave a presentation and provided the following information:

 

The present proposal is a category ‘B’ proposal but since the SEIAA/SEAC for Jharkhand State has not been constituted it is being considered in the Centre.

 

The project proponent informed that while TOR accorded for Madhuband Washery project prescribes as under:

 

a)       “Management/disposal/use of coal waste rejects should be completely used in FBC Boiler based TPP and any balance rejects can be sold to other users. The details of these should be explained as part of the EIA/EMP Report. In case of other users, an MoU should be entered into with potential buyers for their long term use”.

 

b)       “Impact of choice of the selected use of technology and impact on air quality and waste generation (emission & effluents). The Committee further desired that MoU should be entered with for use of coal rejects in FBC based power plants and details furnished as part of EIA-EMP report”.

 

That accordingly the project proponent have approached for seeking TOR for washery reject based proposal. The present proposal is for setting up of 2x75 MW Coal Based Dugda FBC Thermal Power Plant at village Dugda, in Dugda Taluk, in Bokaro Distt., in Jharkhand. Land requirement will be 90 hectares, which is under BCCL. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 23044’00” N to 23044’30” N and Longitude 86009’30” E to 86010’30” E. Coal requirement will be 2.06 MTPA. Total of 1.0 MTPA fly ash will be generated and 0.4 MTPA Bottom Ash will be generated. Water requirement will be 650 Cum/hour, which will be obtained from mine dewatering and Damodar river through a pipeline at a distance of about 4-6 Km and 2.0 km respectively  from the  project site. There are no National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tiger/Biosphere Reserves etc. within 10 km of the site.  Cost of project will be 846.30 Crores.

 

The Committee noted that land requirement shall be restricted to 150 acres. It was noted that the reported gross calorific value (GCV) of washery reject at 1500kcal/kg of coal or so may not be suitable for FBC based Boiler and thus may require blending with coal. The Committee also noted that the unit configuration of 75 MW is a non heat unit and advised that it should have been 100 MW or so.

 

The Committee therefore decided that the project proponent may first take the expert opinion from CEA and accordingly revise their proposal and submit revised Form-I and Pre-Feasibility Report. The matter was accordingly deferred for re-consideration at a later stage.

 

 

2.9       Expansion  by addition of 4x600 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Jindal Power Ltd. at Tamnar, In Gharghoda Taluk, in  Raigarh Distt., in Chhattisgarh – Amendment of Environmental Clearance.

 

The proposal is for expansion of 4x250 MW (1000 MW) by addition of 4x600 MW as recommended  for environmental clearance in the 10th Meeting of the Expert Appraisal Committee held during November 1-2, 2010. The Committee in the said meeting noted that domestic coal linkage was available only for 2x600 MW and therefore decided that recommendation for environmental clearance shall be only for 2x600 MW (out of 4x600 MW). Accordingly it was recommended by the Committee as under:

 

Environmental clearance shall be applicable for 2x600 MW only. However at a later stage when firm coal linkage for the third and fourth units of 600 MW are also available, the project proponent may request the Ministry for inclusion of 2x600 MW, which the Ministry may consider appropriately on merit”.

 

Environmental clearance for the proposed expansion of 4x250 MW (1000 MW) by addition of 2x600 MW was accorded on March 18, 2011, wherein the above mentioned specific condition was stipulated at condition no. (i).

 

The project proponent informed that domestic coal linkage for the balance two units of 600 MW is pending with the Ministry of Coal and due to uncertainty of availability of domestic coal in the near future they have now decided to go for imported coal from Mozambique which is their own mine. This coal is proposed to be used for firing boilers for unit 3 and 4, till such time coal linkage is available form the Ministry of Coal. MoU have accordingly has been signed with M/s JSPL Mozambique Minerals LDA (M/s JSPL Group Company) for supply of 5.8 MTPA.

 

The project proponent informed that the imported coal from Mozambique will have more or less similar coal characteristics as the Indian coal. It is proposed to transport coal from Paradip, Dhamra and Vishakapatnam ports at a distance of 473 km, 548 km and about 634 km respectively from the project site. The coal from the ports will be transported through railway network to Prasada where M/s JPL would develop receiving station to carry coal through pipe conveyor system to the plant.

 

The Committee noted that inland transportation from coal mine in Mozambique to the Port in Mozambique and subsequently from Port (Paradip/Dhamra/Vishakapatanam) in India to project site etc. is not available which would have enabled the Committee in assessing the economics of the instant case. It was also noted that information on facilities for handling of coal in the ports in India for import of coal has not been provided. The Committee further noted that rail transportation from Port in India to the project site may have bottlenecks and adequate information (rolling stocks and track movements) on the same is not available.

 

The Committee therefore decided that the project proponent shall undertake scenario building on feasibility of transport related issues for imported coal (from mine in Mozambique to project site) as well as for domestic coal and furnish the details.

 

The project proponent also requested for an amendment of a condition prescribed in the environmental clearance provided for the proposed expansion read as follows:

 

Prior permission/Clearance from the Ministry of Coal shall be obtained before undertaking construction activity for the expansion project clearly indicating that the plant site is not in Techno-Economically Mineable Coal bearing area”.

 

The project proponent informed that the area of mining lease of M/s Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Corporation (CMDC) is 6000 Ha and the total area for proposed expansion is 115 Ha. Therefore total mining lease area is only 1.91%. Existence of mineable coal seems to be at deeper level, hence open cast mining was not feasible.

 

That underground mining at 300 meters below ground was possible even while the power plant is situated over it by taking precautions and after taking permission from DGMS.

 

That M/s JPL has given an undertaking to M/s CMDC that the company will compensate for loss incurred by M/s CMDC for less mining of coal over 115 Ha  land when the plant is situated over it, whenever they carry out mining below this area.

 

That the order was placed for 4x600 MW Units to M/s BHEL in December, 2008. Most of the supplies related to the plant and equipment have arrived and few are waiting despatch clearance. Delay in clearance from Ministry of Coal was causing loss of additional generation capacity of 2400 MW.

 

It was also informed that requirements for techno-economic study of mineable area in 6000 ha involved exploration of entire area, collection of data, geological report, feasibility report including type of mining and Cost-Benefit Analysis and this needs time period of more than six months.

 

That since the area required for expansion project was only 115 Ha (1.19%) of entire M/s CMDC Prospecting License area; coal reserve is estimated to be 20 MT of E, F and G grade quality. Coal is available at 300 meters below ground, and therefore underground mining at such depth is possible even while the plant is over it. The requirement of techno-economic study is going to take considerable time and M/s JSPL have already given undertaking to M/s CMDC to compensate for loss of mining that it is therefore requested that the condition of Environmental Clearance may be modified by deleting the words “clearly indicating that the plant site is not techno-economically mineable coal bearing area”.

 

The issues could be further deliberated by the Committee on receipt of information as noted above in the preceding paras.

 

The Committee also made available to the PP a copy of the discussion paper on “Thermal Power Plants on the anvil – Implementation and need for rationalization” – by Prayas Energy Group” and sought their considered views.

 

 

2.10     Expansion by addition of 2x150 MW (Phase-II) Middling and Coal fine Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Jindal Steel & Power Ltd. at Village Dongamahua, in Raigarh Distt., in Chhattisgarh – Amendment of environmental clearance regarding.

 

 

M/s Jindal Steel & Power Ltd. was accorded environmental clearance on 09.11.2010 for its expansion of 2x150 MW (Phase-I) TPP by addition of 2x150 MW (Phase-II) Middling & Coal Fines Based TPP located at village Dongamahua, in Tamnar Taluk, in Raigarh Distt., in Chhattisgarh.

 

A specific condition (i) of the environmental clearance prescribes as under:

 

Sulphur and ash contents in the fuel to be used in the project shall not exceed 0.6 % and 43% respectively at any given point of time. In case of variation of coal quality at any point of time fresh reference shall be made to MoEF for suitable amendments to environmental clearance condition wherever necessary”.

 

The project proponent informed that the project is primarily based upon utilization of middlings generated at coal washery and is therefore an environmentally friendly project. The middlings have an ash content of 54%. Environmental clearance granted by MoEF for Stage-I (2x150 MW) of the project also stipulates the percentage of ash in the middlings at 54%.

 

In view of the above, the project proponent requested for amendment of the aforesaid specific condition no. (i) by substituting 34% ash content with 54% ash content.

 

The Committee noted that the project is primarily utilization of resources which would have other-wise got wasted and ash contents in middlings cannot be restricted to 34%. The Committee therefore recommended that the request can be agreed and necessary amendment can be made.

 

 

2.11     Change in Configuration from 2x525 MW Sub Critical to 2x660 MW  Super Critical Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Visaka Thermal Power Private Ltd. at Rairakhol Taluk, in Sambalpur Distt., in Odisha - reiteration of TOR reg.

 

M/s Visaka Thermal Power Private Ltd. was accorded TOR on 13.05.2011 for 2x525 MW Sub Critical. M/s Visaka Power Private Ltd. now desires to change the configuration from 2x525 MW Sub Critical to 2x660 MW Super Critical for its Coal Based Thermal Power Plant at Rairakhol Taluk, in Sambalpur Distt., in Odisha. The project proponent requested the ministry for reiteration of their TOR for the changed configuration.

 

The project proponent also informed that their company has become now public company.

 

The committee deliberated the request for change in the configuration from 2x525 MW Sub Critical to 2x660 MW Super Critical and decided that the request can be agreed to in consonance with the Govt. of India Policy of promoting superior and more efficient technology. Accordingly the Committee decided that the Ministry may do the needful.

 

 

2.12     Change in Configuration from Sub Critical 2x600 MW to SuperCritical 2x660 MW  imported Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Chettinad Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd. at Village Erukkattanchery, in Nagapattanum Distt., in Tamil Nadu – Amendment of Environmental Clearance reg.

 

M/s Chettinad Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd. was accorded Environmental Clearance for its proposed sub critical 2x600 MW imported coal based TPP at Village Erukkattanchery, in Nagapattanum Distt., in Tamil Nadu on 20.01.2011. M/s Chettinad Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd. now desires to change the configuration from 2x600 MW Sub Critical to 2x660 MW Super Critical for the proposed plant and therefore requested the ministry for the amendment of Environmental Clearance for the change in the configuration.

 

M/s Chettinad Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd. also requested that they will provide space for future installation of FGD (Flue Gas Desulphurisation).

 

The committee deliberated the request for change in the configuration from 2x600 MW Sub Critical to 2x660 MW Super Critical and noted that there is marginal increase in Coal consumption but the overall incremental ground level concentration of pollutants will be only marginally higher but resulting in additional output of 120 MW. The Committee therefore decided that the request can be agreed to in consonance with the Govt. of India Policy of promoting superior and more efficient technology and the Ministry may carry out the needful amendment.

 

Regarding FGD it was decided that the installation of FGD need to be carried out as earlier committed by them.

 

 

2.13     Change in fuel for 8x135 MW Lignite Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Raj West Power Ltd. at village Bhadresh, in Barmer Distt., in Rajasthan           - amendment in Environmental Clearance         - reg.

 

M/s Raj West Power Ltd. was accorded environmental clearance for their 8x135 MW Lignite Based TPP at Bhadresh, in Barmer Distt., in Rajasthan. It was informed that the first two units of 135 MW have already been commissioned and the remaining six units are likely to be commissioned by March, 2012. The lignite mine linked with the project is located at villages Jalipa and Kapurdi, in Barmer Distt., in Rajasthan.

 

It was also informed that Kapurdi Lignite Mine, has obtained all requisite approvals including Environmental Clearance from the Ministry and is in a position to commence lignite production as per approved Mine Plan. The development of the Jalipa Mines on the other hand is delayed due to administrative difficulties in the acquisition of land and is expected to achieve its rated production capacity of 6 MTPA in 3 years.

 

That in view of the above there is a gap between the production of Lignite from these mines and the fuel requirement of the power plant to generate power, which shall continue to exist for 3 years till Jalipa achieves rated production.

 

It was further informed that the power plant is equipped with CFBC boilers which are designed to operate over a wide range of fuel quality without loss of operating efficiency.

 

M/s Raj West Power Ltd. (RWPL) further stated that to fill the gap between mine production and fuel requirement, they had approached the lignite producer in the proximity, namely, M/s Neyveli Lignite Corporation and M/s Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC). That however, both the companies have shown inability to supply lignite due to non availability of surplus capacity.

 

M/s RWPL had then applied to the Ministry of Coal, for a Tapering Coal linkage from M/s Coal India Ltd. to tide over this fuel shortage. Based on recommendations of Ministry of Power, M/s RWPL has been sanctioned by a tapering coal linkage equivalent to 50% fuel requirement from mines of M/s Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) and M/s South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) for meeting gap in fuel requirement.

 

In view of all the above scenario M/s RWPL now therefore requested the Ministry that they may be allowed to use 50% coal instead of 100% lignite for a period of three years.

 

The matter was placed before the Committee for its views.

 

The Committee noted that coal being a better fuel than lignite the request can be agreed to however the Committee noted that the linkage paper submitted mentions validity only upto March, 2012 and therefore decided that the request for 50% coal blending can be agreed only till that time i.e. March, 2012. In case they so require the time period sought for three years i.e. till 2014, revalidation of tapering coal linkage for the requested period shall be obtained by the PP.

 

The Committee therefore recommended that the Ministry may ensure the needful maintain the above amendment.

 

 

2.14     2x300 MW Stage–II of M/s Rosa Supply Company Ltd. at village Rosa, in Shahajahanpur Distt., in  Uttar Pradesh – amendment in Environmental Clearance for HCSD  - reg.

 

M/s Rosa Power Supply Company Ltd. was accorded environmental clearance on 20.07.2009 for its 2x300 MW (Stage-II) coal based TPP at village Rosa, in Shahjahanpur Distt., in Uttar Pradesh.

 

M/s Rosa Power Supply Co. Ltd. has requested to amendments of two conditions stipulated in the aforesaid environmental clearance issued by the Ministry which are extracted as under:

 

Condition no. (viii) :

 

Fly ash shall be collected in dry form and storage facility (silos) shall be provided. 100% fly ash utilization shall be ensured from 3rd year onwards. Utilized ash shall be disposed off in the ash pond in the form of High Concentration Slurry (60% ash and 40% water). Mercury and other heavy metals (As, Hg, Cr, Pb etc.) will be monitored in the bottom ash as also in the effluents emanating from the existing ash pond. No ash should be utilized in low laying area, as micro nutrients for agriculture and mine filling”.

 

M/s Rosa Power Supply Co. Ltd. have submitted that in case of disposal of fly ash by conventional method of slurry disposal with ash concentration of 25-28% is an established practice and is successfully operating in a number of power plants in the country. The disposal of fly ash in the form of high concentration ash slurry (HCSD) has limitations with respect to availability of indigenous technology for the pumps and also due to limited suppliers in the international market. That besides this there are operational and maintenance problems in HCSD system due to high corrosion.

 

M/s Rosa Power Supply Co. Ltd. has therefore sought amendment requesting to allow amended allowing them to have conventional slurry disposal system in place off HCSD for stage-II as was been also agreed to for Stage-I.

 

The Committee deliberated the issue and agreed that the request can be agreed keeping conformity with Stage-I.

 

 

 Condition no. (xi) :

 

The treated effluents confirming to the prescribed standards shall be re-circulated and reused within the plant. There shall be no discharge outside the plant boundary except during monsoon. Arrangements shall be made that effluents and storm water do not get mixed”.

 

Regarding the above request for amendment of condition (xi) as extracted above, the Committee declined to accede to the request and observed that the same needs no reconsideration and shall be implemented as specified.

 

 

DATE: 13.09.2011

 

2.15     Discussion on “Thermal Power Plants on the anvil – Implementation and need for rationalization” – Prayas Energy Group.

 

A paper on “Thermal Power Plants on the anvil – Implementation and need for rationalization” has been prepared – by the Prayas Energy Group. As desired by the Chairman, the paper was circulated among the Members of the Expert Appraisal Committee for seeking their views. Accordingly, the paper was forwarded to the members of the Committee and it was briefly touched upon during the meeting.

 

2.       Based on some information received from the Ministry, the Prayas Energy Group has analyzed the data regarding environmental clearances accorded to coal and gas based thermal power projects. As per the analysis, the capacity totals to 1,92,913 MW for which  environmental clearance has been accorded. Another 5,08,907 MW of capacity is in various stages of environmental clearance which are awaiting environmental clearance or terms of reference (TOR) granted or awaiting TOR.

 

3.       The Committee noted of the concerns expressed in the paper and felt that while the quantum of environmental pollution expected is from a large number of thermal power projects proposed to be set up in different regions cited, the views expressed may not be commensurate with reality since all of the proposed projects may to come up due to the various reasons. The Committee however felt that it is required to be more diligent while scoping and appraisal of power projects in the regions where already a large number of power projects have either been recommended for TORs or environmental clearances as the case may be.

 

4.       The Committee also felt that not only coal but equally important is the availability of water, which is a common property resource. Therefore, information on river systems in India would help in appropriate decision making and the Ministry of Water Resources may be requested for providing data on the subject. The Committee also felt that the ambient air quality baseline data of the 30 Districts cited in the paper under discussion, if available, may be obtained from the Central Pollution Control Board.

 

5.       The Committee requested the Ministry to forward a copy of the ‘Discussion paper’ to the concerned administrative Ministries / Departments such as Ministry of Power, Ministry of Coal, Ministry of Renewable Energy and Ministry of Water Resources and that representatives of these Ministries may be invited in the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) meeting to provide their views.

 

 

2.16  20 MW Bagasse and Cane Trash Based Co-Generation Power Project of M/s Lakshmi Sugar Mills Co. Ltd. at village Iqbalpur, in Roorkee Taluk, in Haridwar Distt., in Uttarakhand - reg.  Environmental Clearance.

 

The proposal is for consideration for environmental clearance. The project proponent made a presentation along with its consultant M/s MITCON Consultancy and Engineering Services Ltd. and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 20 MW Bagasse and Cane Trash Based Co-Generation Power Project at village Iqbalpur, in Roorkee Taluk, in Haridwar Distt., in Uttarakhand. Land requirement will be 8.29 acres, which is already in possession. Out of total land requirement, 0.6 acres will be used for Boiler; 0.4 acres will be used for T.G; 0.45 acres will be WTP & C.T; 0.43 acres will be used for switchyard; 2.9 acres will be used for fuel yard; 0.6 acres will be used for Road/paved area and 2.85 acres will be used for green belt. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 29052’15.98” N to 29052’38.26”N and Longitude 77047’27.35” E to 77047’56.43” E. Bagasee requirement will be 150446.20 MT; Cane Trash requirement will be 20554 MT; Rice Hush requirement will be 15769 MT and Imported Coal requirement will be 18625 MT. Total of 3794.5 TPA fly ash will be generated and 2900.5 TPA bottom ash will be generated. Fly ash will be supplied to JP Cement. Stack height will be 73m. Water requirement will be 1.915 MLD and sourced from the ground water from onsite tube well through a pipeline at a distance of 100m from project site. There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site.  Cost of the project will be Rs 107.60 Crores.

 

The project proponent informed that they propose to run the plant on 100% coal during off season period when rice husk, bagasse was not available.

 

The Committee observed that the above shall not be allowed and use of coal shall be restricted to only 15% at any point of time.

 

The project proponent also informed that their requirement of power was only 5.1 MW and the balance generationwas desired to be supplied to the grid.

 

The Committee on further perusal of the proposal observed that the project proponent have not done proper home work indicated by their own lack of knowledge in furnishing the information of the station heat rate and other parameters etc..

 

The Committee therefore decided that the project proponent shall formulate the proposal only as purely Bagasse and Bio-Mass based Co-generation plant with coal restricted to 15% and shall accordingly revise its proposal (including Form-I; Pre-feasibility report; EIA/EMP Report) and come back with adequate details. Accordingly the proposal was deferred.

 

 

2.17  1x500 MW Imported Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of  M/s Hassan Thermal Power Pvt. Ltd. in KIDB notified industrial area at Villages Dobba Basavanahalli, Dobba Honnenahalli, Kachandyakanahalli and Bustanhalli, in Hassan Taluk, in Hassan  Distt., in Karnataka - reg.  Environmental Clearance.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

 

The proposal was earlier placed for consideration for environmental clearance in the 26th Meeting of the Committee held during June 6-7, 2011, wherein the project proponent made a presentation along with its consultant M/s Amba Recycler pvt. Ltd., Chennai and provided the following information which has been reiterated again as under:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 1x500 MW Imported Coal Based Thermal Power Plant at villages Dobba Basavanahalli, Dobba Honnenahalli, Kachandyakanahalli and Bustanhalli, in Hassan Taluk, in Hassan Distt., in Karnataka. Land requirement will be 330 acres, which is in Notified Industrial Area. Out of which 330 acres of land, 42 acres will be used for Boiler house, TG house, cooling tower, transformer yard and switch yard; 80 acres will be for Coal handling plant; 46 acres will be for raw water Reservoir and water system; 30 acres will be for ash dyke; 66 acres will be for green belt; 12 acres will be for admin, stores buildings; 10 acres will be for road and drains and 44 acres will be for storage utilities and misc. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 12058’31.591”N to 12059’41.301”N and Longitude 7607’36.227” E to 7608’36.138”E. Pulverised Coal Fired Boilers will be used. Imported Coal requirement will be 2.1 MTPA. Coal will be imported from Indonesia. MoU has been signed with M/s Khemco Indo Coal Resources Pvt. Ltd., Singapore. Ash and Sulphur content in Coal will be 11% and 0.6% respectively. Ash pond/dyke area will be 30 acres. 0.141 MTPA of fly ash and 0.035 MTPA of bottom ash respectively will be generated. Fly ash will be supplied to M/s Progressive Poly Tex Pvt. Ltd.  Stack height will be 275 m. Water requirement will be 25.5 MLD and will be sourced from the Hemavathi River through a  pipeline at a distance of 17 km from project site. Water allocation for 0.74 TMC has been accorded conditionally by the water Resources Dept., Govt. of Karnataka, Induced cooling system will be installed. A 40 acres reservoir with 6 m depth is proposed to be developed which can cater to 40 days of water requirement. Rain water harvesting will also be carried out which can cater to about 40 days of water requirement. There are no National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Heritage Sites, Tiger/Biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. Gandhe Gatta State Forest-North Burdalbore State Forest is located at 3 km east from project site. Cost of the project will be Rs 2635.714 Crores.

 

The Committee in the said 26th meeting had noted that the layout presented indicated that the guideline requiring 500 m from highway / railway line was not possible to be met and accordingly advised that the project proponent should revise the layout plan keeping the requisite distance from railway line / highway. Accordingly the proposal was deferred for reconsideration at a later stage.

 

The matter was again placed for re-consideration in the 30th Meeting held during August 8-9, 2011, wherein the Committee noted that coal was to be imported via Mangalore Port and thereafter to be transported by rail for about 138 Kms to site. The Committee also noted that even though water allocation have been conditionally accorded by the State Govt., the reliability of availability of sustainable water during lean season was an issue which needed to be seriously addressed. It was further noted that water from Hemavati River might be available only during monsoon season for about four months and the rest of the period water was proposed to be obtained from Gorur reservoir for which valid sanction of the Competent Authority was required to be furnished. The Committee was of the opinion that the issue of water in the instant case may also be an issue of Inter-State water dispute and needed to be deliberated further.

 

With regard to CSR action plan and financial allocation thereof, the Committee observed that the same has been very inadequately addressed and therefore advised the project proponent to re-work the activities based on need assessment and accordingly develop activity wise programme with detailed budget allocation.

 

It was also noted that the Fuel Supply Agreement furnished seems to be a mere paper work for the purpose of qualifying for applying for environmental clearance and a concrete fuel supply agreement shall be furnished. The Committee also desired details of PPA purportedly entered into with the State Govt.

 

The Committee in view of the reasons as mentioned above in the 30th Meeting decided that the project proponent shall accordingly revise their proposal and submit detailed information incorporating issues mentioned above before their case is reconsidered. Accordingly the proposal was deferred for re-consideration at a later stage.

 

The matter was again placed for re-consideration.

 

The Committee was informed that the PPA dated 25.06.2007 was revised in keeping with directions of Govt. of Karnataka and the revised version of the said PPA dated 25.06.2007 has also been agreed upon by both the sides.. Revised Fuel Supply agreement and details of any inert-state water dispute and availability of water from Hemavathi River was also discussed.

 

The Committee while deliberating the issue of water allocation letter furnished by the project proponent decided that a clear indication of permission to draw water from anicut shall be submitted to the Ministry.

 

Based on the information and clarifications provided, the Committee recommended the project for environmental clearance subject to stipulation of the following specific conditions:

 

i)                   The project proponent shall undertake water harvesting measures and shall develop water storage for use in operation of the plant. Rain water harvesting system shall be put in place which shall comprise of rain water collection from the built up and open area in the plant premises. Action plan for implementation shall be submitted to the Ministry within six months. 

ii)                 Any degraded water body located nearby within 5.0 km atleast shall be regenerated.

iii)              COC of 5.0 shall be adopted.

iv)                Monitoring surface water quantity and quality shall also be regularly conducted and records maintained. The monitored data shall be submitted to the Ministry regularly. Further, monitoring points shall be located between the plant and drainage in the direction of flow of ground water and records maintained. Monitoring for heavy metals in ground water shall be undertaken.

v)                  Waste water generated from the plant shall be treated before discharge to comply limits prescribed by the SPCB.

vi)                Transportation of coal shall be strictly by rail and railway siding shall be developed in and around the plant.

vii)             Sulphur and ash contents in the imported coal to be used in the project shall not exceed 0.5 % and 14 % respectively at any given time.  In case of variation of coal quality at any point of time fresh reference shall be made to Ministry for suitable amendments to environmental clearance condition wherever necessary.

viii)           Harnessing solar power within the premises of the plant particularly at available roof tips shall be implemented and action plan and implementation status submitted every six months.

ix)               Ash shall not be used for mine void filling. A detailed study on its chemical composition particularly heavy metal and radio activity contents shall be carried out within one year of commissioning of the plant through a reputed institute and report submitted to the Ministry.

x)                 Ash pond shall be lined with HDPE/LDPE lining or any other suitable impermeable media so that no leachate takes place at any point of time. Adequate safety measures shall also be undertaken to protect the ash dyke from getting breached.

xi)               Stack of 275 m height with flue gas velocity not less than 22 m/s will be installed.

xii)            The emission of particulate matter from the proposed thermal power plant shall not exceed 50 mg/Nm3 by installation of ESP.

xiii)          An amount of Rs 10.54 Crores as one time investment shall be earmarked for activities to be taken up under CSR. Recurring annual expenditure for CSR shall be Rs 2.11 Crores till the life of the plant.

xiv)           CSR schemes shall be implemented based on need prior assessment carried out in and around the villages of the study area especially within 5 km of the project site and in constant consultation with the village Panchayat and the District Administration. As part of CSR prior identification of local employable youth and eventual employment in the project after imparting relevant training shall be also undertaken. Detailed action plan shall be submitted to MoEF within next three months.

xv)              It shall be ensured that an in-built monitoring mechanism for the CSR schemes identified is in place and annual social audit shall be got done from the nearest government institute of repute in the region. The project proponent shall also submit the status of implementation of the scheme from time to time besides putting their programs along with budgetary allocation on company’s website.

xvi)           Green Belt consisting of 3 tiers of plantations of native species around the plant of atleast 50 m width shall be raised (except in areas not feasible). The density of trees shall not be less than 2500 per Ha and rate of survival atleast 80%.

xvii)         Over and above the green belt, as carbon sink, social forestry shall be carried out in consultation with the Forest Department. The project proponent shall accordingly identify blocks of land / degraded forests and shall undertake regeneration of degraded forests at a large scale. In pursuance to this, the project proponent shall formulate a time bound action plan along with financial allocation and shall submit status of implementation to the Ministry within six months.

xviii)      An Environmental Cell shall be created at the project site itself and shall be headed by an officer of appropriate superiority and qualification. It shall be ensured that the Head of the Cell shall directly report to the Head of the Organization.

 

 

2.18  2x660 MW Imported Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Visa Power Ltd. near Village Brahmanbasta, in Athgarh Taluk, in Cuttack Distt., in Odisha            - reg.  Environmental Clearance.

 

The proposal was earlier placed for consideration for environmental clearance in the 60th Meeting of the Committee held during December 11-12, 2209. The proposal was earlier for 4x250 MW Domestic coal based and it was informed to the Committee that they now desire to go for 2x600 MW instead of 4x250 MW. The Committee under the circumstances advised the project proponent to submit revised Form-1 and EIA/EMP Report incorporating revised pollution load (air, water, soil etc). Committee however agreed that Public Hearing already undertaken can be accepted.

 

The Committee in the said meeting also noted that the area has marshy land in the core zone and has several reserve forests, two of which are adjacent with dense growth of Sal trees. The EIA report submitted by the project proponent also depicts rich presence of flora and fauna in the study area. There are a number of schedule-1 species in the study area.

 

Also about 89.0 ha of grazing land are to be acquired for which the project proponent has not thought of identifying and developing alternative grazing site, which is expected irrespective of the same has been specially spelt out in the TOR.

 

The Committee also noted that public hearing response submitted by the project proponent was also found not satisfactory.

 

In view of the above the Committee decided that the project proponent shall carry out the following before their case can be considered:

 

i)                   The revised Form-1 and EIA/EMP shall be submitted with details of pollution load calculated on the basis of the proposed change in configuration of the power plant.

ii)                 A detailed wildlife conservation plan shall be prepared in consultation with the office of the Chief Wildlife Warden with time bound implementation programme. The plan shall have in-built monitoring mechanism in place.

iii)              An area drainage study and hydro-geological study shall be carried out and mitigation measures for any adverse impact on surface and ground water regime in the area suggested for immediate implementation.

iv)                Action plan for development of alternative grazing land shall be prepared within schedule of implementation.

v)                  Detailed action plan on implementation of issues raised in the public hearing shall be submitted.

vi)                R&R details along with settlement plan for homestead oustess (if any) which shall include details of families (name and size) compensation paid etc. shall be prepared and submitted with action plan and schedule for implementation. While preparing the R&R plan it shall be ensured that R&R shall be completed during construction phase of the plant.

vii)             Details of private land acquisition shall be submitted which shall provide names of families and details of compensation paid/proposed to be paid per acre of land.

viii)           Detailed socio-economic study shall be carried out for the study area comprising of 10 km from the plant site.

ix)               CSR component shall be prepared based on need based assessment study to be carried out in the study area.  Income generating measures which can help in upliftment of poor section of society which is consistent with the traditional skills of the people shall be identified. The programme can include activities such as development of fodder farm, fruit bearing orchards, vocational training etc.  In addition, vocational training for individuals shall be imparted so that poor section of society can take up self employment and jobs. Separate budget for community development activities and income generating programmes shall be specified. Financial allocation to be taken up under CSR shall be specified.

 

In the said 60th meeting it was decided that since the above will take some time the matter be deferred for re-consideration at a later stage. It was also suggested that the matter be de-listed from the pending list.

 

The project proponent have since revised their proposal to 2x660 MW super-critical and informed that they have now deleted portion of grazing land which was earlier proposed to be acquired.

 

The present proposal is for consideration for environmental clearance. The project proponent made a presentation along with its consultant M/s GIS Enabled Environment & Neo-Graphic Centre, Ghaziabad and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 2x660 MW Imported Coal Based VISA Cuttack Super Thermal Power Plant near village Brahmanbasta, in Athgarh Taluk, in Cuttack Distt., in Odisha. Land requirement will be 941 acres, which comprises of 358 acres non-irrigated agricultural land and 583 acres barren land. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 20031’27” N to 20032’11” N and Longitude 85045’19” E to 85047’33”E.  Imported Coal requirement will be 6.50 MTPA which will be obtained from Indonesia. MoU is in place with M/s PT Kubara Bumi Lestari, Indonesia. Area requirement for ash pond/dyke will be 250 acres. The co-ordinates of the ash pond/dyke site are at Latitude 20031’36”N to Longitude 85047’24”E. A total of 1.3224 MTPA, fly ash will be generated and 0.3306 MTPA of bottom ash will be generated. Fly ash will be supplied proposed cement plant belonging to their group company in the name of M/s Visa Cement Ltd. Stack height will be 275m. Water requirement will be 40 cusecs and will be sourced from the Mahanadi River through a pipeline about a distance of 2.0 km from project site. A reserved forest is situated at 2.0 km from project site. There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. Public hearing was held on 01.02.2009. Cost of the project will be Rs 7336.00 Crores.

 

The Committee deliberated the issues regarding inland transportation in Indonesia and from Port in Indonesia to Port in Plant site and thereafter rail transportation to plant site.

 

On a query regarding distance of site from Elephant Corridor, the project proponent stated that it wasnot less than 23 Kms away from the proposed site. It was also stated that diversion of nallah (if any) shall be done with concurrence from the Irrigation Dept. and without affecting the natural drainage pattern of the region.

 

The Committee also decided since Cuttack city is located only at about 8.0 Kms away and is expanding with time, therefore, in case capacity is further increased from the proposed 2x660 MW, the project proponent shall install FGD not only for any future addition but also for the existing units now under discussion.

 

The Committee also discussed the issues raised in the public hearing and the responses made by the project proponent. The major issues raised were generation of dust; likely adverse impact due to air pollution; contamination of water and its adverse impact on agriculture; likely over flow of ash pond; likely ground water depletion; downstream water pollution; depletion of forests and subsequent impact on wildlife; grazing land acquisition; compensation for land acquisition; employment of locals; R&R for land losers etc. The project proponent also stated that no litigation is pending in any courts.

 

Based on the information and clarifications provided, the Committee recommended the project for environmental clearance subject to stipulation of the following specific conditions:

 

i)                   The project proponent shall undertake water harvesting measures and shall develop water storage for use in operation of the plant. Rain water harvesting system shall be put in place which shall comprise of rain water collection from the built up and open area in the plant premises. Action plan for implementation shall be submitted to the Ministry within six months. 

ii)                 In case the total capacity at the site is further increased from the proposed 2x660 MW, the project proponent shall install FGD not only for any future additional units thereafter, but also for the existing units.

iii)              Any degraded water body located nearby within 5.0 km atleast shall be regenerated.

iv)                COC of 5.0 shall be adopted.

v)                  Monitoring surface water quantity and quality shall also be regularly conducted and records maintained. The monitored data shall be submitted to the Ministry regularly. Further, monitoring points shall be located between the plant and drainage in the direction of flow of ground water and records maintained. Monitoring for heavy metals in ground water shall be undertaken.

vi)                Waste water generated from the plant shall be treated before discharge to comply limits prescribed by the SPCB.

vii)             Transportation of coal shall be strictly by rail and railway siding shall be developed in and around the plant.

viii)           Sulphur and ash contents in the imported coal to be used in the project shall not exceed 0.5 % and 14 % respectively at any given time.  In case of variation of coal quality at any point of time fresh reference shall be made to Ministry for suitable amendments to environmental clearance condition wherever necessary.

ix)               Harnessing solar power within the premises of the plant particularly at available roof tips shall be implemented and action plan and implementation status submitted every six months.

x)                 Fly ash shall not be used for mine void filling. A detailed study on its chemical composition particularly heavy metal and radio activity contents shall be carried out within one year of commissioning of the plant through a reputed institute and report submitted to the Ministry.

xi)               Ash pond shall be lined with HDPE/LDPE lining or any other suitable impermeable media so that no leachate takes place at any point of time. Adequate safety measures shall also be undertaken to protect the ash dyke from getting breached.

xii)            Stack of 275 m height with flue gas velocity not less than 22 m/s will be installed.

xiii)          The emission of particulate matter from the proposed thermal power plant shall not exceed 50 mg/Nm3 by installation of ESP.

xiv)           An amount of Rs 29.34 Crores as one time investment shall be earmarked for activities to be taken up under CSR. Recurring annual expenditure for CSR shall be Rs 5.87 Crores till the life of the plant.

xv)              CSR schemes shall be implemented based on need prior assessment carried out in and around the villages of the study area especially within 5 km of the project site and in constant consultation with the village Panchayat and the District Administration. As part of CSR prior identification of local employable youth and eventual employment in the project after imparting relevant training shall be also undertaken.

xvi)           It shall be ensured that an in-built monitoring mechanism for the CSR schemes identified is in place and annual social audit shall be got done from the nearest government institute of repute in the region. The project proponent shall also submit the status of implementation of the scheme from time to time besides putting their programs along with budgetary allocation on company’s website.

xvii)         Green Belt consisting of 3 tiers of plantations of native species around the plant of atleast 100 m width shall be raised (except in areas not feasible). The density of trees shall not be less than 2500 per Ha and rate of survival atleast 80%.

xviii)      An Environmental Cell shall be created headed by a Biologist at the project site itself and shall be headed by an officer of appropriate superiority and qualification. It shall be ensured that the Head of the Cell shall directly report to the Head of the Organization.

 

 

2.19  2x400 MW Gas Based Combined Cycle Power Plant of M/s Avant-Grade Infrastrucuture Pvt. Ltd. at Village Atru, in Atru Taluk, in Baran Distt., in Rajasthan - reg.  Environmental Clearance.

 

The proposal is for consideration for environmental clearance. The project proponent made a presentation along with its consultant M/s EMTRC Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 2x400 MW Gas Based Combined Cycle Power Plant at village Atru, in Atru Taluk, in Baran Disttt., in Rajasthan. Land requirement will be 150 acres, which is a revenue land. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 24052’24” N to 24052’44” N and Longitude 76040’45” E to 76041’15”E. Air cooled condensers and Dry Low NOx Burners will be installed. Natural gas requirement will be 4.0 MMSCMD. GAIL pipeline runs at about 500 m from the site. MoU for gas supply with GAIL has been made. Water requirement will be 4200 KLD and will be sourced from the Parvati River through a pipeline at a distance of 9.0 km from project site. HFL of Parvati River is more than 500 m away. A small drain flowing along the south boundary of the site shall be retained within the green belt area. Two stacks of 70 m height each will be installed. A reserved forest is situated at 2.0 km from project site. There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. Public hearing was held on 19.07.2011. Cost of the project will be Rs 2950.00 Crores.

 

The Committee noted that gas based power plants inherently may have an adverse impact on the ambient air quality of the region depending upon the status of baseline AAQ and therefore decided that the project proponent shall initiate a long term study through a reputed institution to assess the cumulative impact of the power plants and other sources of emissions on the AAQ of the area. The study shall in particular assess the impact of emission of the gas power plant on the chemistry of the upper atmosphere and the impact on radiation budget. It shall be ensured that the study takes into account the worst seasonal atmospheric conditions. The Committee also observed that the project proponent may approach any of the reputed organizations in the field and get the study conducted with the purpose of taking mitigative steps as may be required.

 

The Committee also observed that water being a scarce resource in the area, the project proponent shall undertake proactive measures to ensure that degraded ponds/ tanks in the area are re-generated.

 

Based on the information and clarifications provided, the Committee recommended the project for environmental clearance subject to stipulation of the following specific conditions:

 

i)                   Vision document specifying prospective plan for the site shall be formulated and submitted to the Ministry within six months.

ii)                 The project proponent shall initiate a long term study through a reputed institution to assess the cumulative impact of the power plants on the AAQ of the area. The study shall in particular assess the impact of emission of the gas power plant on the chemistry of upper atmosphere and the impact on radiation budget. It shall be ensured that the study takes into account the worst seasonal atmospheric conditions.

iii)              Height of stack for each module shall not be less than 70 m with flue gas velocity atleast than 22 m/s.

iv)                Mass Spectrometer based Helium detector for detection of HC shall be installed.

v)                  Concentration for photochemical oxidants shall be monitored along with NOx and permanent monitoring stations shall be installed. Ambient Air Quality shall be installed in the eastern direction to monitor the air quality and monitor data shall be submitted periodically to the Regional Office of the Ministry.

vi)                Harnessing solar power within the premises of the plant particularly and at available roof tops shall be made and the status of implementation submitted every six months to the Ministry.

vii)             COC of atleast 5.0 shall be adopted.

viii)           The project proponent shall regenerate degraded water bodies in the area and shall undertake proactive measures such as rainwater surface runoff harvesting in this regard and status on action taken submitted to the Ministry from time to time.

ix)               Monitoring of surface water quantity and quality shall also be regularly conducted and records maintained. The monitored data shall be submitted to the Ministry regularly. Further, monitoring points shall be located between the plant and drainage in the direction of flow of ground water and records maintained. Monitoring for heavy metals in ground water shall be undertaken. The ground water quality shall be monitored continuously to assess the impact on the levels of ground water.

x)                 Waste water generated from the plant shall be treated before discharge to comply limits prescribed by the SPCB.

xi)               A well designed rain water harvesting system shall be put in place within six months, which shall comprise of rain water collection from the built up and open area in the plant premises. Action plan and road map for implementation shall be submitted to the Ministry within six months.   

xii)            Well designed acoustic enclosures for the DG sets and noise emitting equipments to achieve the desirable insertion loss viz. 25 dB(A) should be provided.

xiii)          Additional soil for leveling of the sites should be generated within the site in a way that natural drainage system of the area is protected and improved.

xiv)           An amount of Rs. 12.0 Crores as one time investment should be earmarked for activities to be taken up under CSR by the above proponent. Recurring expenditure for CSR shall not be less than Rs. 2.36 Crores per annum till the operation of the plant. Detailed action plan with break-up of activities to be undertaken shall be submitted within six months to the Ministry.

xv)              CSR schemes shall be identified based on need based assessment in and around the villages within 5 km of the site and in constant consultation with the village Panchayat and the District Administration. As part of CSR prior identification of local employable youth and eventual employment in the project after imparting relevant training and retraining if necessary, shall also be undertaken.

xvi)           It shall be ensured that an in-built monitoring mechanism for the CSR schemes identified is in place and annual social audit shall be got done from a government institute of repute in the region. The project proponent shall also submit the status of implementation of the scheme from time to time. The project proponent shall also put on the company’s website the activities undertaken with budgetary achievements.

xvii)         The project proponent shall ensure that all possible hazards due to the power plant are contained within the plant premises.

xviii)      Three tier Green Belt shall be raised all around the plant site which shall comprise of not less than 33% of the total area. The project proponent shall ensure that the density of trees are not less than 2500 per ha and rate of survival of plantation shall be not less than 80%. The selection of plant species shall be as per the CPCB guidelines in consultation with the DFO.

xix)          An Environmental Cell shall be created at the project site itself and shall be headed by qualified officer, who is well versed with the environmental aspects.  It shall be ensured that the Head of the Cell shall directly report to the head of the organization.

 

 

2.20  1x400 MW Gas Based Combined Cycle Power Plant of  M/s Noida Power Company Ltd. at Villages Jaun, Samana, in Dadri Taluk, in Gautam Budh Nagar Distt., in Uttar Pradesh – reg. TOR.

                           

The proposal was considered for determination of terms of reference for undertaking EIA/EMP study as per provisions of EIA Notification, 2006. The project proponent along with its consultant M/s EMTRC Consultants Pvt. Ltd., Ghaziabad gave a presentation and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 1x400 MW Gas Based Combined Cycle Power Plant at Villages Jaun, Samana, in Dadri Taluk, in Gautam Budh Nagar Distt., in Uttar Pradesh. Land requirement will be 39.9031 acres, which is single crop agricultural land. The land is acquired by GNIDA. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 28035’3.2” N to 28035’9.1”N and Longitude 77029’44.2” E to 77029’51.5”E. Natural gas requirement will be 1.5 MMSCMD. Water requirement will be 1.992 MLD and will be sourced from the ground water. Air cooled condensers will be installed. Stack height will be 70m. There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site.

 

The Committee noted that the proposed project site is very close to a railway line and may not meet the environmental criteria for citing of thermal power plants. The Committee therefore decided that the project proponent shall either leave 500 m away from the railway line and come back with revised layout plan or identify alternative sites.

 

The Committee also noted that the project proponent has proposed to use ground water for its requirement which cannot be permitted. The Committee therefore advised that they make like to examine possibility of using treated sewage water either from Delhi or from within U.P.

 

In view of the above, the Committee decided that the project proponent shall make necessary revision of its proposal and accordingly deferred the matter for re-consideration at a later stage.

 

 

2.21  2x800 MW Super Critical Coal Based Thermal Power plant of  M/s Bansagar Thermal Power Company Ltd. at Village Tikuratola, in Beohari Taluk, in Shandol Distt., in Madhya Pradesh – regarding TOR.

                           

 

The Committee noted that neither have the project proponent has sent the requisite documents to the members for their perusal nor alternative sites have been  identified. The Committee therefore decided to defer the proposal.

 

 

2.22  2x660 MW Super Critical Coal Based Thermal Power plant of  M/s Essel Infraprojects Ltd. at Villages Tikuri, Raghunathpur, Ansara & Ghumri, in Teonthar Taluk, in Rewa Distt., in Madhya Pradesh – reg TOR.

                           

The proposal was considered for determination of terms of reference for undertaking EIA/EMP study as per provisions of EIA Notification, 2006. The project proponent along with its consultant M/s Bhagavathi Ana Labs Ltd. gave a presentation and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 2x660 MW Super Critical Coal Based Thermal Power plant at Village Tikuri, Raghunathpur, Ansara & Ghumri, in Teonthar Taluk, in Rewa Distt., in Madhya Pradesh. Land requirement will be 1250 acres. Out of which 870.923 acres Govt. land and 379.077 acres is Private barren land. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 25001’40” N to 25003’40” N and Longitude 81018’30” E to 81020’30”E.  Area requirement for ash pond/dyke will be 400 acres. Water requirement will be 48 MCM and will be sourced from the Tons/Tamas River through a pipeline at a distance of 15 KM. There are several reserve forests (about 11 R.F) in the study area, the nearest being 500 m away. There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. 300 homestead oustees will be affected and 650 land oustees will be affected from this project.

 

The Committee noted that the proposed site is not suitable for location of a thermal power plant. The Committee also noted that other alternative sites shown were also not found to be suitable. The Committee further noted that Tons/Tamas River has water for about only three-four months and therefore advised the project proponent to provide a detailed availability source of sustainable water availability especially during lean season 

 

The Committeee, in view of the above, therefore, declined to recommend TOR and informed the project proponent to identify alternative sites and come back again. Accordingly the proposal was deferred for reconsideration at a later stage.

 

 

 

2.23  2x660 MW Super Critical Coal Based Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant of  M/s THDC India Ltd. at villages Dashashra Kherli, Jahanpur, Naiphal and Rukanpur, in Khurja Taluk, in Bulandshahar Distt., in Uttar Pradesh – reg TOR.

                           

The proposal was considered for determination of terms of reference for undertaking EIA/EMP study as per provisions of EIA Notification, 2006. The project proponent along with its consultant M/s NTPC Ltd. gave a presentation and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for setting up of 2x660 MW Super Critical Coal Based Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant at Villages Dashashra Kherli, Jahanpur, Naiphal and Rukanpur, in Khurja Taluk, in Bulandshahar Distt., in Uttar Pradesh. Land requirement will be 1576 acres, which comprises of 181 acres single crop land; 1200 acres industrial land acquired by UPSIDC; and 195 acres unidentified land. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 28008.600” N to 28010.073” N and Longitude 77053.783” E to 77055.230”E. Coal requirement will be 7.72 MTPA. Area requirement for ash pond dyke will b 330 acres. Water requirement will be 129.6 MLD and will be sourced from the Upper Ganga Canal through a pipeline at a distance of 8 km from the project site.  There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. About 900 land oustees may be affected by this project.

 

The Committee noted that land requirement is on a very high side and shall restrict it to 850 acres. The Committee also noted that the requirement of 500 m margin from national highway on either side shall be left and accordingly layout shall be revised.

 

Based on the information provided and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following specific TOR over and above the standard TORs as at Annexure-A1 for undertaking detailed EIA study and preparation of EMP.

 

i)        Land shall be restricted to 850 acres

ii)       Layout shall be revised keeping 500 m distances on either side of the National Highway.

 

 

2.24  Expansion by addition of 1x300 MW (Phase-III) Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of  M/s Vidarbha Industries Power Ltd. at Village Butibori, in Hingna Taluk, in Nagpur Distt., in Maharashtra – reg TOR.

                           

The proposal was considered for determination of terms of reference for undertaking EIA/EMP study as per provisions of EIA Notification, 2006. The project proponent gave a presentation and provided the following information:

 

The proposal is for expansion by addition of 1x300 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Plant at village Butibori, in Hingna Taluk, in Nagpur Distt., in Maharashtra. Additional land requirement will be 100 acres, which will be in MIDC area. Nagpur city is located at about 25 kms away. The co-ordinates of the site are at Latitude 20055’13.97” N to 20056’1.3”N and Longitude 78055’43.9” E to 78056’19.8”E. Coal requirement will be 1.85 MTPA. Coal will be domestic. Water requirement will be 19 MLD and will be sourced from the MIDC through a pipeline at a distance of 18.0 km from the project site.  There are no national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, tiger/biosphere reserves etc. within 10 km of the site. Dongargaon RF, Injoli RF, Junapani RF, Bidsukli RF, Bid Ajangaon PF, Degama RF, Kelighar RF, PF near Nanhi is situated at a distance of 6.0Km,7.2 Km,4.2 Km,2.4 Km,7.2 Km, 7.6 Km,9.2 Km and 6.0 km respectively.

 

Based on the information provided and presentation made, the Committee prescribed the following specific TOR over and above the standard TORs as at Annexure-A1 for undertaking detailed EIA study and preparation of EMP.

 

i)                   Details of implementation of the previous Phases (including PPA/power end users details etc.) shall be submitted.

ii)                 Fresh data shall be collected for one season and EIA / EMP report shall be prepared accordingly.

iii)              Environmental and social issues pertaining to Vidarbha region shall be collated and details submitted.

 

 

2.25  2x800 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Andhra Pradesh Power Development Company Ltd at village Krishnapatinum, in Nellore Distt., in Andhra Pradesh      - Amendment in environmental clearance.

 

 

M/s Andhra Pradesh Power Development Company Ltd. (M/s APPDCL) was accorded environmental clearance for its 2x800 MW TPP at Krishnapatnam, in Nellore Distt., in Tamil Nadu on 17.07.2007. M/s APPDCL informed the Ministry that as per original layout provided while application for environmental clearance, ash pond was supposed to be located near fresh water body and a creek which ultimately joined Buckingham Canal. That during detailed engineering it was found that relocation of ash away from main project site in an area earlier marked for township has environmental advantages. The earlier proposed township is about 1.0 Kms away from the site. That the proposed shifting will avoid ash contamination of existing fresh water body.

 

The matter was placed for views of the Committee.

 

The Committee deliberated the issues involved due to change in ash pond location and decided that the request can be agreed to provided that the project proponent ensures HDPE/LDPE lining or any other impermeable lining material is put in place. The Committee also decided that the project proponent shall ensure that three tier thick green belts on either side of the Colony and Ash Pond is developed. Accordingly it was decided that Ministry may do the needful.

 

 

2.26  2640 MW Super Critical Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Bhandara Thermal Power Corporation Ltd. at Villages Rohana, Eklara and Kushari Taluk, in Bhandara Distt., in Maharastra – Amendment in TOR.

 

M/s Bhandara Thermal Power Corpn. Ltd was accorded TOR on 03.02.2011 for its 4x660 MW Coal Based TPP proposed to be located at Villages Rohana, Eklara & Kushari, in Mohadi Taluk, in Bhandara Distt., in Maharashtra. The company has now informed the Ministry that they have now decided to locate the power plant entirely in the village Rohana instead of extending to villages Eklara & Kushari and that land requirement shall be now reduced to 1371acres.

 

M/s Bhandara Thermal Power Co. Ltd. has submitted revised layout and have requested the Ministry for amendment of TOR by affecting the above mentioned changes. It was also informed that the Directorate of Industries, Govt. of Maharashtra has also advised the company to purchase land from Rohana village and to reduce land requirement.

 

The matter was placed before the Committee for its views.

 

The Committee deliberated the matter and noted that the revised layout involves reduction by 1.5 % of double crop agricultural land; 7.26 % un-irrigated rainfed agricultural land; and increase by 20.88 % single crop agricultural lands. The Committee recommended for reiteration of TOR prescribed earlier with the inclusion of issues involved in the change in the land of area to be acquired along with related R and R issues based on relevant legislation.

 

 

2.27  1x600 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Plant of M/s Jhabua Power Ltd. at Villages Barela and Gorakpur, in Ghansore Taluk, in Seoni Distt., in Madhya Pradesh - Amendment in environmental clearance.

 

M/s Jhabua Power Ltd. was accorded environmental clearance on 17.02.2010 for its 1x600 MW Coal Based Thermal Power Plant proposed to be located at Ghansore Tehsil, in Seoni Distt., in Madhya Pradesh.

 

Condition no. (xii) of the environmental clearance prescribes as follows:

 

Closed cycle cooling system with natural draft cooling towers shall be provided. The effluents shall be treated as per the prescribed norms”.

 

M/s Jhabua Power Ltd. informed that during detailed engineering for better choice of cooling systems they have found that adoption of induced draft cooling towers instead of natural draft cooling tower is a better option. The company have therefore requested for amendment in the environmental clearance by replacing natural draft with induced draft.

 

The request was placed before the Committee for its views.

 

The Committee noted that the technical change sought can be agreed to as these are matters of engineering requirements on account of several factors and not an issue with environmental degradation per say. The Committee therefore decided that the Ministry may do the needful.

 

 

2.28  Amendment of environmental clearance accorded for 123 MW Captive Thermal Power Plant of M/s Welspun Corp. Ltd. (formerly M/s Welspun Gujarat Stahl Rohren Ltd.) at Village Varsamedi, in Kutch Distt., in Gujarat     - reg. (reconsideration).

 

 

The matter was earlier placed in the 30th Meeting of the Committee held during August 8-9, 2011, wherein the following information was provided by the project proponent.

 

M/s Welspun Corp. Ltd. (formerly M/s Welspun Gujarat Stahl Rohren Ltd.) was accorded environmental clearance for its 123 MW (43 MW and 2x40 MW) Captive TPP at village Varsamedi, in Kutch Distt., in Gujarat. It was informed that 43 MW was commissioned and is in operation since April, 2008. The company now desires to club the 2x40 MW and install a single unit of 80 MW.

 

The Company however also desires that environmental clearance accorded for 123 MW be split into two units such that 43 MW will be run by M/s Welspun Corp. Ltd. and 1x80 MW will be operated by M/s Welspun Captive Power Generation Ltd. (a wholly owned subsidiary of M/s Welspun Corp. Ltd.)

 

The matter was deliberated and the Committee noted that the issue needs to be legally examined. The Committee therefore advised the project proponent to submit a detailed self explanatory note vis-à-vis the provisions of Electricity Rules and Companies Act and any other Acts and Rules germane to the request (including High Court of Gujarat Order). Accordingly the matter was deferred for reconsideration at a later stage.

 

The matter was again placed for re-consideration.

 

The project proponent submitted a legal opinion under Electricity Act, 2003 and also informed the following:

 

As per Section 21 of Company Act, 1956, fresh certificate of incorporation from the Registrar of Companies for change of name of company from M/s WGSRL to M/s WCL has been obtained and hence permission from High Court is not required.

 

That the share holder pattern and electricity consumption in the SPV shall be as follows:

 

Name of Shareholder               Shareholder                            Energy consumption

 

M/s Welspun Steel Ltd.                     50%                               50% (36 MW)

M/s Welspun India Ltd.                     30%                               30% (24 MW)

M/s Welspun Corp Ltd.                     10%                               10% (8 MW)

M/s Welspun Energy Ltd.        10%                               0% (investor holder)

 

That as per their proposed structure, the equity shareholding of the company would be held by the aforesaid three share holders who would be collectively holding more than 26% and will be the recipient of 90% of the electricity generated from the units at all time.

 

That therefore the proposed structures comply with the applicable law as captive generating plant under the provisions of Electricity Act, 2003.

 

The Committee decided that the request can be agreed to subject to fulfillment of any other provisions as may be applicable under the EIA Notification, 2006 (and its amendments). Accordingly the Committee decided that the Ministry may do the needful.

 

 

There being no agenda item left the meeting ended with thanks to the Chair. It was also decided that the next meeting of the Committee will be held during October 10-11, 2011 at Scope Convention Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi.

 

 

 

-----------------------------


 

ANNEXURE- A1

 

 

Terms of Reference (TOR) :

 

i)                         Vision document specifying prospective long term plan of the site, if any, shall be formulated and submitted.

ii)                       Status of compliance to the conditions stipulated for environmental and CRZ clearances of the previous phase(s), as applicable, shall be submitted.

iii)                    Executive summary of the project indicating relevant details along with recent photographs of the approved site shall be provided. Response to the issues raised during public hearing and to the written representations (if any), along with a time bound action plan and budgetary allocations to address the same, shall be provided in a tabular form, against each action proposed.

iv)                      Harnessing solar power within the premises of the plant particularly at available roof tops and other available areas shall be formulated and status of implementation shall be submitted to the Ministry.

v)                        The coordinates of the approved site including location of ash pond shall be submitted along with topo sheet (1:50,000 scale) and confirmed GPS readings of plant boundary and NRS satellite map of the area, shall be submitted. Elevation of plant site and ash pond with respect to HFL of water body/nallah/river shall be specified, if the site is located in proximity to them.

vi)                      Layout plan indicating break-up of plant area, ash pond, area for green belt, infrastructure, roads etc. shall be provided.

vii)                   Land requirement for the project shall be optimized and in any case not more than what has been specified by CEA from time to time. Item wise break up of land requirement and revised layout (as modified by the EAC) shall be provided.

viii)                 Present land use as per the revenue records (free of all encumbrances of the proposed site, shall be furnished. Information on land to be acquired) if any, for coal transportation system as well as for laying of pipeline including ROW shall be specifically stated. 

ix)                     The issues relating to land acquisition and R&R scheme with a time bound Action Plan should be formulated and clearly spelt out in the EIA report.

x)                       Satellite imagery or authenticated topo sheet indicating drainage, cropping pattern, water bodies (wetland, river system, stream, nallahs, ponds etc.), location of nearest villages, creeks, mangroves, rivers, reservoirs etc. in the study area shall be provided.

xi)                     Location of any National Park, Sanctuary, Elephant/Tiger Reserve (existing as well as proposed), migratory routes / wildlife corridor, if any, within 10 km of the project site shall be specified and marked on the map duly authenticated by the Office of the Chief Wildlife Warden of the area concerned. 

xii)                  Topography of the study area supported by toposheet on 1:50,000 scale of Survey of India, alongwith a large scale map preferably of 1:25,000 scale and the specific information whether the site requires any filling shall be provided.  In that case, details of filling, quantity of fill material required; its source, transportation etc. shall be submitted. 

xiii)                A detailed study on land use pattern in the study area shall be carried out including identification of common property resources (such as grazing and community land, water resources etc.) available and Action Plan for its protection and management shall be formulated. If acquisition of grazing land is involved, it shall be ensured that an equal area of grazing land to be acquired is developed alternatively and details plan shall be submitted.

xiv)                 A mineralogical map of the proposed site (including soil type) and information (if available) that the site is not located on economically feasible mineable mineral deposit shall be submitted.

xv)                    Details of 100% fly ash utilization plan as per latest fly ash Utilization Notification of GOI along with firm agreements / MoU with contracting parties including other usages etc. shall be submitted. The plan shall also include disposal method / mechanism of bottom ash.

xvi)                 Water requirement, calculated as per norms stipulated by CEA from time to time, shall be submitted along with water balance diagram. Details of water balance calculated shall take into account reuse and re-circulation of effluents which shall be explicitly specified.

xvii)               Water body/nallah (if any) passing across the site should not be disturbed as far as possible. In case any nallah / drain has to be diverted, it shall be ensured that the diversion does not disturb the natural drainage pattern of the area. Details of diversion required shall be furnished which shall be duly approved by the concerned department.

xviii)            It shall also be ensured that a minimum of 500 m distance of plant boundary is kept from the HFL of river system / streams etc.

xix)                Hydro-geological study of the area shall be carried out through an institute/ organisation of repute to assess the impact on ground and surface water regimes. Specific mitigation measures shall be spelt out and time bound action plan for its implementation shall be submitted.

xx)                   Detailed Studies on the impacts of the ecology including fisheries of the river/estuary/sea due to the proposed withdrawal of water / discharge of treated wastewater into the river/creek/ sea etc shall be carried out and submitted alongwith the EIA Report. In case of requirement of marine impact assessment study, the location of intake and outfall shall be clearly specified along with depth of water drawl and discharge into open sea.

xxi)                Source of water and its sustainability even in lean season shall be provided along with details of ecological impacts arising out of withdrawal of water and taking into account inter-state shares (if any).      Information on other competing sources downstream of the proposed project. Commitment regarding availability of requisite quantity of water from the Competent Authority shall be provided along with letter / document stating firm allocation of water.

xxii)              Detailed plan for carrying out rainwater harvesting and its proposed utilisation in the plant shall be furnished.

xxiii)           Feasibility of zero discharge concept shall be critically examined and its details submitted.

xxiv)             Optimization of COC along with other water conservation measures in the project shall be specified. 

xxv)               Plan for recirculation of ash pond water and its implementation shall be submitted.

xxvi)             Detailed plan for conducting monitoring of water quality regularly with proper maintenance of records shall be formulated. Detail of methodology and identification of monitoring points (between the plant and drainage in the direction of flow of surface / ground water) shall be submitted. It shall be ensured that parameter to be monitored also include heavy metals.

xxvii)          Socio-economic study of the study area comprising of 10 km from the plant site shall be carried out by a reputed institute / agency which shall consist of detail assessment of the impact on livelihood of local communities.

xxviii)        Action plan for identification of local employable youth for training in skills, relevant to the project, for eventual employment in the project itself shall be formulated and numbers specified during construction & operation phases of the Project.

xxix)            If the area has tribal population it shall be ensured that the rights of tribals are well protected. The project proponent shall accordingly identify tribal issues under various provisions of the law of the land.

xxx)              A detailed CSR plan along with activities wise break up of financial commitment shall be prepared. CSR component shall be identified considering need based assessment study. Sustainable income generating measures which can help in upliftment of poor section of society, which is consistent with the traditional skills of the people shall be identified. Separate budget for community development activities and income generating programmes shall be specified.

xxxi)            While formulating CSR schemes it shall be ensured that an in-built monitoring mechanism for the schemes identified are in place and mechanism for conducting annual social audit from the nearest government institute of repute in the region shall be prepared. The project proponent shall also provide action plan for the status of implementation of the scheme from time to time and dovetail the same with any Govt. scheme(s). CSR details done in the past should be clearly spelt out in case of expansion projects.

xxxii)         R&R plan, as applicable, shall be formulated wherein mechanism for protecting the rights and livelihood of the people in the region who are likely to be impacted, is taken into consideration. R&R plan shall be formulated after a detailed census of population based on socio economic surveys who were dependant on land falling in the project, as well as, population who were dependant on land not owned by them.

xxxiii)       Assessment of occupational health as endemic diseases of environmental origin shall be carried out and action plan to mitigate the same shall be prepared.

xxxiv)  Occupational health and safety measures for the workers including identification of work related health hazards shall be formulated. The company shall engage full time qualified doctors who are trained in occupational health. Health monitoring of the workers shall be conducted at periodic intervals and health records maintained. Awareness programme for workers due to likely adverse impact on their health due to working in non-conducive environment shall be carried out and precautionary measures like use of personal equipments etc. shall be provided. Review of impact of various health measures undertaken at intervals of two years shall be conducted with an excellent follow up plan of action wherever required.

xxxv)           One complete season site specific meteorological and AAQ data (except monsoon season) as per MoEF Notification dated 16.11.2009 shall be collected and the dates of monitoring recorded. The parameters to be covered for AAQ shall include SPM, RSPM (PM10, PM2.5), SO2, NOx, Hg and O3 (ground level). The location of the monitoring stations should be so decided so as to take into consideration the pre-dominant downwind direction, population zone, villages in the vicinity and sensitive receptors including reserved forests. There should be at least one monitoring station each in the upwind and in the pre - dominant downwind direction at a location where maximum ground level concentration is likely to occur.

xxxvi)  A list of industries existing and proposed in the study area shall be furnished.

xxxvii)      Cumulative impact of all sources of emissions (including transportation) on the AAQ of the area shall be well assessed. Details of the model used and the input data used for modelling shall also be provided. The air quality contours should be plotted on a location map showing the location of project site, habitation nearby, sensitive receptors, if any. The wind roses should also be shown on the location map as well.

xxxviii)   Radio activity and heavy metal contents of coal to be sourced shall be examined and submitted along with laboratory reports.

xxxix)       Fuel analysis shall be provided. Details of auxillary fuel, if any, including its quantity, quality, storage etc should also be furnished.

xl)                     Quantity of fuel required, its source and characteristics and documentary evidence to substantiate confirmed fuel linkage shall be furnished.

xli)                  Details of transportation of fuel from the source (including port handling) to the proposed plant and its impact on ambient AAQ shall be suitably assessed and submitted. If transportation entails a long distance it shall be ensured that rail transportation to the site shall be first assessed. Wagon loading at source shall preferably be through silo/conveyor belt.

xlii)                For proposals based on imported coal, inland transportation and port handling and rolling stocks /rail movement bottle necks shall be critically examined and details furnished.

xliii)             Details regarding infrastructure facilities such as sanitation, fuel, restrooms, medical facilities, safety during construction phase etc. to be provided to the labour force during construction as well as to the casual workers including truck drivers during operation phase should be adequately catered for and details furnished.

xliv)               EMP to mitigate the adverse impacts due to the project along with item - wise cost of its implementation in a time bound manner shall be specified.

xlv)                 A Disaster Management Plan (DMP) along with risk assessment study including fire and explosion issues due to storage and use of fuel should be carried out.  It should take into account the maximum inventory of storage at site at any point of time. The risk contours should be plotted on the plant layout map clearly showing which of the proposed activities would be affected in case of an accident taking place. Based on the same, proposed safeguard measures should be provided.  Measures to guard against fire hazards should also be invariably provided.

xlvi)               The DMP so formulated shall include measures against likely Tsunami/Cyclones/Storm Surges/Earthquakes etc, as applicable. It shall be ensured that DMP consists of both on-site and off-site plan, complete with details of containing likely disaster and shall specifically mention personnel identified for the task. Smaller version of the plan shall be prepared both in English and local languages.

xlvii)            Detailed plan for raising green belt of native species of appropriate width (50 to 100 m) and consisting of at least 3 tiers around plant boundary (except in areas not possible) with tree density of 2000 to 2500 trees per ha with a good survival rate of about 80% shall be submitted. Photographic evidence must be created and submitted periodically including NRSA reports.

xlviii)          Over and above the green belt, as carbon sink, additional plantation shall be carried out in identified blocks of degraded forests, in close consultation with the District Forests Department. In pursuance to this the project proponent shall formulate time bound action plans along with financial allocation and shall submit status of implementation to the Ministry every six months.

xlix)              Corporate Environment Policy

 

a)           The company to have a well laid down Environment Policy approved by its Board of Directors.

b)           The Environment Policy must prescribe for standard operating process / procedures to bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or forest norms / conditions.

c)            The hierarchical system or Administrative Order of the company to deal with the environmental issues and for ensuring compliance with the environmental clearance conditions must be furnished.

d)           To have proper checks and balances the company should have a well laid out 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.

 

All the above details should be adequately brought out in the EIA report and in the presentation to the Committee.

 

l)                         Details of litigation pending or otherwise with respect to project in any court, tribunal etc. shall invariably be furnished.

 

 

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ANNEXURE- A2

 

Additional TOR for Coastal Based TPPs:

 

 

Over and above the TOR mentioned in Annexure- A1, the following shall be strictly followed (as applicable):

 

a)                 Low lying areas fulfilling the definition wetland as per Ramsar Convention shall be identified and clearly demarcated w.r.t the proposed site.

b)                 If the site includes or is located close to marshy areas and backwaters, these areas must be excluded from the site and the project boundary should be away from the CRZ line. Authenticated CRZ map from any of the authorized agency shall be submitted.

c)                  The soil levelling should be minimum with no or minimal disturbance to the natural drainage of the area. If the minor canals (if any) have to be diverted, the design for diversion should be such that the diverted canals not only drains the plant area but also collect the volume of flood water from the surrounding areas and discharge into marshy areas/major canals that enter into creek. Major canals should not be altered but their bunds should be strengthened and desilted.

d)                 Additional soil for leveling of the sites should be generated as far as possible within the sites, in a way that natural drainage system of the area is protected and improved

e)                 Marshy areas which hold large quantities of flood water shall be identified and shall not be disturbed.

f)                   No waste should be discharged into Creek, Canal systems, Backwaters, Marshy areas and seas without appropriate treatment. The outfall should be first treated in a guard pond (wherever feasible) and then discharged into deep sea (10 to 15 m depth). Similarly, the intake should be from deep sea to avoid aggregation of fish and in no case shall be from the estuarine zone. The brine that comes out from desalinization plants (if any) should not be discharged into sea without adequate dilution.

g)                 Mangrove conservation and regeneration plan shall be formulated and action plan with details of time bound implementation shall be specified, if mangroves are present in study area.

h)                A common Green Endowment Fund should be created by the project proponents out of EMP budgets. The interest earned out of it should be used for the development and management of green cover of the area.

i)                   Impact on fisheries at various socio economic level shall be assessed.

j)                   An endowment of Fishermen Welfare Fund should be created out of CSR grants not only to enhance their quality of life through creation of facilities for fish landing platforms / fishing harbour / cold storage, but also to provide relief in case of emergency situations such as missing of fishermen on duty due to rough seas, tropical cyclones and storms etc.

k)                 Tsunami Emergency Management Plan shall be prepared and plan submitted prior to the commencement of construction work.

l)                   There should not be any contamination of soil, ground and surface waters (canals & village pond) with sea water in and around the project sites. In other words necessary preventive measures for spillage from pipelines, such as lining of guard pond used for the treatment of outfall before discharging into the sea and surface RCC channels along the pipelines of outfall and intake should be adopted. This is just because the areas around the projects boundaries is fertile agricultural land used for paddy cultivation.

 

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