OVER AN EXTENT OF 5.0 HECTARES OF COLOUR GRANITE MINE · POKARNA LIMITED is conscious of its...

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

_______________________________________________________________

For

OVER AN EXTENT OF 5.0 HECTARES OF COLOUR GRANITE MINE

In

Sy. No: 53, of Tekkali village, Tekkali Mandal, Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh

Proposed By

M/s. POKARNA LIMITED 105, Surya Towers, S.P. Road, Secunderabad – 500 003.

Prepared By

____________________________________________________________________________________

M/s. GLOBAL ENVIRO LABS (Recognised by Govt. of India, MoEF, New Delhi Vide Gazette Notification No. S.O. 773 (E))

2-2-1075/14/A/1, Tilaknagar “X” Roads , Bagh Amberpet, Hyderabad – 500 072. Ph.: 040-65582886; Telefax:040-27407969

E.Mail: [email protected]

CONTENTS

CHAPTER - 1

INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER - 2

PROJECT DETAILS

CHAPTER - 3

EVALUATION OF IMPACTS

CHAPTER - 4

ENVIRONMENTAL MAGEMENT PLAN

MINING PLAN

CONTENTS PARTICULARS Page No:

1.0 Introduction 1

2.0 Project Description

2.1 The Project 4

2.2 Need for the Project 4

2.3 Topography 4

2.4 Geology 4

2.5 Geological Reserves 6

2.6 Mining 6

2.7 Mineral Processing 9

2.8 Site Services 9

2.9 Employment Potential 9

3.0 Evaluation of Impacts

3.1 Air Environment 10

3.2 Noise Environment 12

3.3 Water Environment 13

3.4 Land Environment 14

3.5 Biological Environment 15

3.6 Socio Economic Environment 16

4.0 Environmental Management Plan

4.0 Introduction 18

4.1 Air Pollution Control Measures 18

4.1.1 Occupational Health and Safety Measures 20

4.2 Noise Pollution Control Measures 20

4.3 Water Pollution Control Measures 21

4.4 Land Environment 22

4.5 Socio Economic Benefits 25

4.7 Post Project Monitoring 25

4.8 Implementation of Environmental Management Plan 25

List of Tables

Table – 1 Salient Features of the Study Area 2

Table – 3 Cost of Environmental Protection Measures 26

List of Figures

Figure –1 Topographical Map 3

EMP Report For Colour Granite Mine of 5.00 Ha, located in Tekkali village,Tekkali Mandal, Srikakulam District,, A.P.

M/s. Pokarna Limited

Global Enviro Labs, Hyderabad 1

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

M/s GAUTAM GRANITE, Srikakulam, was granted a Quarry Lease for colour Granite

in Survey number 53 of Tekkali village, and Mandal, Srikakulam District, A.P. over an

extent of 5.00 Ha for a period of 15 yearss. Subsequently, the company applied for a

transfer of the said lease in favor of M/s POKARNA LIMITED. The lease was

transferred in the name of M/s POKARNA LIMITED; vide DMG Proceedings No.

30465/R1-1/20084 dated 3-2-2009. The lease was executed by the Assistant Director of

Mines and Geology, Srikakulam., Vide Proceeding No. 340/Q/2008 dated 28-02-2009,

for the un expired period of the Lease ie., upto 31-01-2012.

The Mining Plan was approved by Joint Director of Mines and Geology, Hyderabad,

Vide letter No 8166/MP-1 2003, dated 27-10-2003, in the name of Gautham Granites.

A mining scheme was approved by Dept. of Mines & Geology vide Lr.No: 1907/MP/11,

dated 30-07-2011 in the name of Pokarna Limited.

This project was applied for EC on 26.11.2012 to AP SEAC and committee consider in

SEAC,AP and SEIAA meeting held on 06.12.2012 in his meeting committee suggested

to take credible action and Later the District Collector, Srikakulam District initiated

violation in 1st class additional judicial magistrate ,Tekkali vid C.C.No:259/2016.

The Lessee is proposes to produce about 2160 Cum/year of Colour Granite. The total cost

of the project is Rs. 50 lakhs only.

M/s. POKARNA LIMITED is conscious of its responsibility towards the society in

minimizing the pollution load due to this proposed activity and according to Office

Memorandam No. -11011/47/2011-IA.II(M), dated.18-05-2012 from MoEF, GoI, New

Delhi for obtaining Environmental Clearance from SEIAA, Andhra Pradesh; the project

proponents intends to prepare an Environmental Management Plan for submission for

grant of Environmental Clearance for their proposed 5.00 Ha. of Granite Mine Lease

area.




Table – 1: SALIENT FEATURES OF THE STUDY AREA

Details of the Study Area

District & State Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh

Mandal Tekkali

Village Tekkali

Nature of the Area Govt. Revenue Land

Latitude 18o37’31.9” N

Longitude 84o13’59.9” E

General Climatic Conditions

Maximum Temperature 40oC

Minimum Temperature 15oC

Annual Rainfall 950 mm

Wind Pattern NE to SE

Accessibility

Road Connectivity A B.T. road of 0.9 km length is

connecting to the area from

Sanyasinipuram village

Rail Connectivity The nearest Railway station is located at

Tekkali, at a distance of 1.8 km from the

applied area

Air Port Vishakapatnam 100km

Nearest Village Sanyasinipuram village 0.9 km from ML

area

Historical / Important Places

Archaeologically Important Site Nil within the study area

Historically Important Site Nil within the study area

Sensitive Places Nil within the study area

Sanctuaries / National Parks Nil within the study area

Nearest Forest Pedda Kedar R.F. 1.0 km N

Polavaram R.F. 6.7 km SW

Water bodies Balancing Reservoir (NE)-1.2 Km;Water

pond (SW)- 0.5 Km;Canal -1.0 Km

Figure 1 shows the 10 km radius of the study area around the proposed Mine Lease area.




2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 THE PROJECT

The project of M/s. Pokarna Limited deals with the production of 2,160 m3/Year of

Colour Granite in Sy. No. 53, of Tekkali village, Tekkali Mandal, Srikakulam District of

Andhra Pradesh. The method of working shall be by Semi-Mechanised opencast working

of quarrying by using jack hammer drilling & cutting by Wire Saw & blasting by low

explosives if required.

The lease area is at the intersection of 18o37’31.9” North latitudes and 84

o13’59.9” E

East longitudes. The area is located at a distance of 1.8 km from Tekkali.

2.2 NEED FOR THE PROJECT

In order to meet the statutory requirements the lessee intends to obtain Environmental

Clearance from Statutory Authorities.

2.3 TOPOGRAPHY

The Quarry Lease land area is marked by physiographic imprints, like elevated mounds,

The deposit is exposed to above surface level. The area gently sloping towards South –

Eastern side. This region is characterized by tropical climate. The east, west and south

sides of Q.L. area deposit is extended

2.4 GEOLOGY

2.4.1 Regional Geology

In and around Annavaram Charnockite Gneiss / Khondalite are occurring which area a

part of Eastern Ghat Group of Rocks consisting of Charnockites, Khondalite and

Granitoids, a variety of hybrid rock formed by the interaction of Intrusive granite with the

Khondalite. The Eastern Ghat Group attains a maximum thickness in the Ganjam – cuttak

tract. It occurs as ridges trending NE-SW. The Eastern Ghat belt exhibits high grade

metamorphism as evidenced by the presence of Garnet and Silliminite. The Charnockite

shows intrusive relation towards Khondalite and itself undergone post migmatic changes.

Felspathic bands are common and are due to Granitisation




2.4.2 Local Geology

The terrain in and around the area is of undulating in nature. The major portion of the

area is occupies by big boulders and sheet of Khondalite and Granitoid which is

porphyritic in nature. The Granitoid or Porphyritic Granite will be quarried and blocks

will be produced from it. Two set of joints are observed, one is parallel and the other

perpendicular to strike direction, widely spaced and are useful in splitting big blocks from

the mother rock. The rock on physical examination is Porphyritic texture consists of Big

Crystals of Feldspar, surrounded by fine ground mass. It is massive has an augen gneiss

pattern and compact. The predominant minerals are Feldspar, Sillimanite, and Garnet.

The other accessory minerals present are Biotite and Quartz. The rock exhibits an augen

gneissic pattern. The rock at places is intruded by quartz vein and feldspar bands. The

weathering extends to a depth varying from few inches to a foot in some areas. A

megascopic and polished sample indicates that the rock takes good polish and exhibits a

very attractive texture. The over all appearance of the rock is prophyritic yellowing in

colour.

Litho units Present in the area: The main litho unit present in the area is Porphyritic

Granite in the form of boulders and sheet. The Feldspar which is prophyritic is reddish to

brown in color and therefore impart a general reddish color to the granite. At places the

Feldspar is Gery in color and is therefore light in color. Commercially the granite is

known as maple red / tan brown.

EXPLORATION:

Already carried out:

Exploration of the area was in the form of collection surface samples and subjecting them

to cutting and polishing. Mining is being carried out in this quarry and so far about

6,253.285 cu m of Granite blocks were produced and dispatched.

Proposed to be carried out: No exploration is proposed in the ensuing Scheme period.




2.5 GEOLOGICAL RESERVES

2.5.1 Mineable Reserves and Life of the Mine

The updated reserves are arrived at deducting the Granite mined from the area as on date

from themineable reserves which were established as 39,091 cu.m

Mineable reserves : 39,091 cu m

Granite mined so far : 6,253.285 cu m

Balance Mineable reserves : 32,837.715 cu.m

Life of the Mine = Total Minable reserves – Already recovered

Actual anticipated annual production

= 39,091 M3 - 6,253.285 M

3

2,160 M3

= 15 years

2.6 MINING

Method of Mining: Opencast Semi Mechanized:

Below table showing the Machinery to be deployed in the quarry

Machinery Quantity Nature of Work

Excavator 1 no The excavator to be employed for

the removal of the over burden,

small boulders, cut boulders and

waste rock

Tipper 2 no For transportation of the overburden

and blocks

Compressors 4 no For drilling holes for splitting

Jack hammers 12 no For drilling holes

Chain pulley block 1-10 ton For lifting small blocks

Crane 1-10 ton For loading the blocks in to the

trucks

TOOLS:

Drill Rods of size ranging from 2.5 feet to 10 feet long

Feather and wedges for splitting the holed rock in a linear direction

Grinding Wheels for grinding the diamond bits of the rods

Wire net, Wire rope, chain 50mm, and other spares

Diamond wire saw.




4.1.2 METHOD OF DELINEATION

Several methods of delineation can be carried out and the prominent among them is

mentioned below.

Drilling & Separation

Drill hole pattern for primary and secondary smooth blasting-Free end is made on one

side of mother block followed by line drilling. Line drilling is used by using V-6

compressor, the holes of 35 mm will be made at 40cm interval up to 6m depth. At bottom

of the block horizontal holes are made i.e from bottom of the bench up to 2mm width at

70 cm spacing. The horizontal holes will be filled partially with rock-broken chemical

powder (about 200grams in each hole) all the vertical holes will be filled with water,.

After two to three hours the primary block bounded by jack hammer holes will move out

few cm from the mother block.

Depending on the weak plains to get the required size blocks i.e.3.2x1.8x1.8m small

holes will be made with jack hammer and blocks of above dimensions are separated. The

blocks sized will be pulled by winch or pock liner the blocks will be dressed before sale

in the dressing yard.

Dressing:

(i) Dressing of dimensional rough blocks for export:

The primary blocks obtained during quarrying operations i.e after primary cut are to be

dressed. This will be done manually or by using pneumatic picks to get good geometric

shape. This also depends on the rock surface to be exposed.

(ii) Dressing of rough blocks in the quarry for domestic processing plants.

The size below the G.S are dressed and sized by using the same technique as above for

use in domestic market.

The rough blocks of different sizes are dressed depending on the demand these blocks

will be sold. By adopting methods in para (ii), (iii) the recovery will improve there by the

profitability of the quarry will improve.

(iii) Handling of blocks within the quarry:

In this mine to achieve the required handling of 282M of material per annum of total

granite blocks and waste rock one hydraulic excavator shall be used. The machinery to be

used is given under machinery deployed. The machinery will be used for handling the

blocks and for meeting the drilling requirements.




(iv) Transportation of the blocks from quarry to yard and to destination.

The equipment listed in machinery shall be enough to handle the blocks from quarry to

yard where final dressing of useful blocks takes place after necessary trimming .The

crane shall be used to load the finished blocks on the transportation trucks to dispatch the

blocks.

Removal/Excavation of O.B. and other quarry waste:

The O.B. consist of soil and weathered Colour granite boulders of various sizes. They

shall be loaded into tippers by using excavators. The waste is then hauled to the

predesigned dump yard on south-western side part of the Q.L. area.

Separation of Primary Blocks from Mother Rock

After removal of the overburden the sheet formation of exposed. Then either naturally

occurring vertical / inclined joint plane ie., attempted to develop a working face. After

exposing the working face the rock splitting is effected by using jack Hammers operated

by compressed air for putting line-holes for wedging. Alternatively, the rock splitting also

can be effected by natural joints (both epi and syngenetic) joints are also helpful in

primary rock separation from the mother rock. Separation of primary blocks from mother

rock and obtained the block size 250x150x150 cms. to 300x200x150cm. In case of

extracting huge size during the stage of rock splitting, such blocks are cut by using

Diamond wire-saw to suit the size of gang-saw.

Sub-division of large primary blocks in to secondary block

After primary separation the rock mass will be carefully examined to avoid hair-line

rocks, mineral segregations and veinsetc; the dressing of the rough blocks will be made

by clipping the edges and geometrically equaling the edges of the block at the dressing

yard. The rough blocks obtained after primary cut need to be dressed for obtaining good

geometric shape, from one primary block two numbers of secondary blocks can be made

dimensional shape of 1.0 to 3.5M3 in size, and the same measurements are

180x75x75Cms to 227x133x118 Cms.

Production of Commercial Block

The main idea is to bring the block to proper dimension after chipping the rough corners.

It is done manually using hand held wedges. Flaws like Colour lines, fractures and

penetrative cracks are taken care of at this stage of forming commercially marketable

blocks.




2.7 MINERAL PROCESSING

The Lessee has set up two highly sophisticated exports oriented Granite processing plants

in the State of Andhra Pradesh. Various types of Granite are processed in these plants and

the rough block is converted into value added items Slabs, Tiles and Monuments.

Applicant intends to export the finished product and as well as export the raw blocks to

foreign countries.

2.8 SITE SERVICES

The rest shelter cum office, first aid room, and toilets are constructed in the flat portion of

the area. The roof is of asbestos sheets covered by hay to keep it cool in summer. A first

aid certificate holder will be the in charge of the first aid room. Protected drinking water

will be provided and stored in earthen pots.

2.9 EMPLOYMENT POTENTIAL

The mining activity will provide the job facilities to the local people. It will have 1 Mines

Manager, skilled & unskilled labour about 30 persons.




3. EVALUATION OF IMPACTS

3.0 INTRODUCTION

Opencast mining activity causes some adverse impacts on the surround environment

unless proper environmental management plan is adopted. Selecting suitable sites for

mining and adopting the guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Environment & Forests

(MoEF) and Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), one can minimize the major possible

impacts.

In this chapter, an attempt has been made to quantify the possible environmental impacts

on various features such as air, water, noise, land, ecology and socio-economies. The

following aspects have been studied to identify the possible impacts while achieving the

total production of 2,160 Cum/Year of Colour Granite.

The magnitude and significance of the environmental pollution caused by mining

depends on method of mining, scale and concentration of mining activity.

3.1 AIR ENVIRONMENT

The impacts on air environment from a mining activity depend on various factors like

production capacity, machinery involved, operations and maintenance of various

equipments and vehicle. Apart from these, there will be other activities associated viz

transportation of mineral and waste, stocking facilities and dump management within the

mine lease area that may contribute to pollution.

3.1.1 SOURCES OF DUST EMISSION

Mining is carried out by open cast semi mechanized method by using jack hammer

drilling & wire saw cutting and using low explosive blasting. Based on the various

operations involved in the production of minerals, the various emission sources has been

identified as given below.




a. Point soruces

b. Area sources.

c. Line sources.

Drilling operations of the mine are considered as point sources. Extraction of mineral

from mine, are considered as area sources. Transportation of material from mining

benches to various end points are considered as line sources. The impact of above sources

on air environment is discussed below:

a) Drilling & Blasting

One the boulder is freed by removing the soil and waste rock surrounding it, a series of

holes are drilled by compressed air using Jack Hammer at a regular interval of 15-30 cms

depending on the size of the boulder, the depth of the hole depends on the height of the

boulder and the holes are drilled up to the bottom leaving about a foot at the base. The

holes have to be perfectly straight and vertical so that the vertical split is obtained. Line

drilling machine can be used to drill straight holes. Feather and wedges are inserted into

the holes and hammered continuously applying uniform pressure and the boulder splits

vertically. Similarly dressing is done and the boulder is given a rectangular shape. All the

defects are avoided during the dressing stage. Diamond wire saw may also be employed

to dislodge the block from the parent rock.

Drill hole pattern will be uniform single lined pattern, equidistances holes from 0.33 m to

0.75 m , 4.5 m in depth. Spacing depends upon the size of the boulder, in general it 15

cms from hole to hole for better splitting.

The concentrations due to low explosives blasting will be confined to a maximum

distance of 10 m from the area of blasting. These concentrations will not be emitted

continuously. However presence of personnel near the blasting site during blasting will

be totally avoided. So, the impact of blasting on the air environment will be minimal.

b) Extraction & Loading

Extraction & Loading will be done by a crane and excavator and these activities of mine

operation is contributing to the area source emission and the extent of influence of this

operation is about 100 m2.




c) Haulage &Transportation

In the operating mine, the dressed blocks from mine face to the consumers is transported

by hired trucks. The trucks will be well maintained so that exhaust smoke does not

contribute abnormal values of noxious gases and unburnt hydrocarbons. The other

sources of air pollution is due to the dust generated during the movement of tippers on the

haul road.

The above sources, which include drilling, low explosives blasting, excavation, haulage

for transport of blocks will contribute to dust pollution in the air.

3.1.2ANTICIPATED IMPACTS

The impacts envisaged due to mining activity are evaluated based on various factors. The

emission inventory of the pollutants is as follows, the main air pollutant would be dust or

particulate matter generated by handling and transportation of colour granite. But the

impact of mining operations on air quality is minimum as mining involved method by

using jackhammer drilling & wire saw cutting & low explosive blasting and as the

production quantity is very less i.e. 8.64 Cum/Day only.

3.1.2.1 Dust Generation and Control

The air pollutant would be dust or particulate matter generated by handling and

transportation of granite blocks. The dust generated due to mining operations will be

controlled by water sprinkling through water tankers.

3.2 NOISE ENVIRONMENT

Noise will be produced at the mine is due to operations of machinery, drilling, blasting,

and movement of vehicles. The noise generated by the mining activity is dissipated

within a small zone around the mine. There is no major impact of the mining activity on

the vicinity however; pronounced effect of above noise levels will felt only near the




active working area and on the personnel working in the vicinity. The impact of noise on

the villages is negligible as the villages are located far from the mine site.

3.3 WATER ENVIRONMENT

The Mining activity will be carried out on mound slope will not have any effect on the

ground water and the static water table in this area is below 25 m.

3.3.1 Impact on Surface Water

There are no major streams and rivers, which can get effected by the mining. Hence,

there will be no effect on the surface water.

During the present plan period quarrying will go to depth of 10 meters from the present

level of mining. During the monsoon period, the rainwater, if gets stagnated, will be

drained out. The benches will made with an inward slope to facilitate run off more faster

on to the mine floor. Small bunds, garlands and silting tanks also will be constructed to

minimize inflow muddy water which carry fine material.

3.3.2 Impact on Ground Water

Mining activity will be above the BWL (25m). Hence, there will be no effect on the

ground water regime.

3.3.3 Impact on Water Quality

Water quality in the buffer zone have indicted that the ground water is free from heavy

metal concentration and this mining activity will not interference on the water quality.

3.3.4 Water Consumption & Wastewater Generation

The water requirement for this proposed mining activity will be 6.5 KLD. Breakup

details are:

Sl. No: Purpose Quantity (KLD)

1 Dust suppression purpose 5

2 Domestic purpose 0.5




3 Greenbelt purpose 1.0

Total 6.5

There is no generation & discharge of wastewater from this mine.

3.4 LAND ENVIRONMENT

Various components of land environment have been identified for study of impact of the

mine operations. Details of the same are given below:

3.4.1 Solid Waste Generation

Removal of weathered rock and the rock waste is the only solid waste that will be

generated from this mine. Some of the material from the waste may be sorted out and

used for making small blocks to be used by the local unit for making tiles. The market for

tiles is good at the moment and they will offer a better substitute for marble in terms of

price and quality. Some rejected and unsorted material may be used in the civil

engineering projects in the vicinity of the area. The waste material can also be crushed

into smaller sizes and can be used as road metal

The waste generated during the five years may be dumped in the zone separately reserved

for dumping within the Q.L. area. The dump is located in the Northeastern part of outside

the lease area (i.e. company’s own land). The dump will be designed in such that it will

have slopes equal to the angle of repose of such material. Garland drains have to be sunk

along around the leading edge of the dump. A retaining wall will be constructed around

the dump to preventing the slanting of boulders Care will be taken to minimize the waste

generation at the source.

About 5040 m3/Year of waste will be generated from this mine. The waste generated

during the five years may be dumped in the zone separately reserved for dumping in the

adjoining to the quarry lease. The length of the dump is proposed to be 150 m, width 100

m and height will be about 6 m. The slope will be maintained at 35 degrees. The dumps

will have to design in such that it will have slopes equal to the angle of repose of such

material.




3.4.3 Impact on Land use

The mine is located in an area of 5.0 Ha. No forestland is involved.

After the operations cease, the mine spoiled area will be back field. It may not be

possible to complete regain the original topography of the area. During quarrying

whatever solid waste is generated shall be dumped at dumping site in outside the Q.L.

area. The mining lease area is not a part of any type of forest. Entire mine lease area is

govt. land hence all the impact on land use is positive because aesthetic environment will

not be effected, as the mine is located on a plain with some bushes.

Due to opencast mining activities, the landscape will be slightly changed. There

will be no land subsidence as the country is made up of hard rock. The Soil cover in this

mine is almost nil and Agriculture is seen mainly in the plains in the vicinity of the lease

area and the mining will not have any impact on the agricultural pattern. Only few bushes

will be cleared to facilitate mining and other related activities and there are no big

trees, which may have to be cut.

3.4.4 Impact of Ground vibrations

Fragmentation of rock by blasting is an important operation in mining project, where hard

rock occurs. Blasting will be done only when it is absolutely necessary, using low

intensity explosives.

Blasting of the mineral at the proposed mine will be done by using Low-density

chemical explosives like ECM/ CaOH will be used. Sometimes smooth blasting may be

done using silent non-explosive demolishing agents like Acconex.

The ground vibrations caused by blasting will not have any affect as the mining is on a

mound and the vibrations will be minimum and will not be carried too far due to the hard

nature of the rock.

3.5 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

There is no adverse impacts are anticipated due to the proposed mining activity on

biological environment. However, with the implementation of the environmental




management measures, there will be improvement in the parameters of biological

environment.

The tree species found with the core zone represent the common type of flora species

along with small shrubs and bushes. Due to mining activities community structure of the

vegetation will not change. Where as diversity of plant species and food web index of the

area reduced to certain extent.

However, if the proposed reclamation of the mining area and dumped out area using

proper re-vegetation techniques and development of green belt around the ultimate limit

and roadside there shall be an improvement in the species diversity and food web index

compared to the existing level

3.6 SOCIO- ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

3.6.1 No Rehabilitation

The mine area does not cover any habitation. Hence the mining activity does not involve

any displacement of human settlement. No public buildings, places, monuments etc. exist

within the lease area or in the vicinity. The mining operations will not disturb/ relocate

any village or need resettlement. Thus no adverse impact is anticipated.

3.6.2 Improvement in Socio Economic Status

It will be obvious to assume that the activities of the mining operations have to be

produced some improvements in the socio-economic levels in the study area.

The Lessee will provide employment to local population and it will give preference to the

local people whenever there is requirement of manpower.

The proposed mining activities will provide employment to persons of different skills and

trades. The local population is the largest plausibility among these employees. The

employment potential ameliorated economic conditions of these families directly and

provided employment to many other families indirectly who are involved in business and




service oriented activities. This in-turn will improve the socio-economic conditions of the

area.

3.6.3 Occupational Health and Safety

The mine is going to be developed mainly semi mechanized opencast method by using

jackhammer drilling & wire saw cutting & low explosive blasting. No major crushing or

pulverization will be done here. The small-scale mining will not have any ill effects on

the health of labour.

Excessive dust and noise are the chief health hazards for the miners. As already

mentioned these causative factors are well within the safety limits and the proponents

will strictly implement the prescribed safety measures. The health of the workers will be

regularly checked and suitable medical facilities should be created on or close to the site.

Highest safety will be ensured in the working conditions of the miners.




4. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

4.0 INTRODUCTION

The mining development in the study area needs to intertwined with judicious utilization

natural resources within the limits of permissible assimilative capacity. The assimilative

capacity of the study area is the maximum amount of pollution load that can be

discharged in the environment without affecting the designated use and is governed by

dilution, dispersion and removal due to natural physio-chemical and biological processes.

The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is required to ensure sustainable

development in the study area.

This chapter covers the genesis of pollution, the principal sources of pollution, the nature

of pollution, the proposed measures required for meeting the prevailing statutory

requirements of gaseous emissions, wastewater discharge characteristics, noise levels etc.

for environmental management purpose in connection with the mining and mining related

activities in the study area.

This section discusses the management plan for mitigation/abatement impacts and

enhancement of beneficial impacts due to mining. The Environmental Management Plan

(EMP) has been designed within the framework of various Indian legislative and

regulatory requirements on environmental and socio-economic aspects.

Environmental Management Plan giving the environmental protection measures at mine

to meet the stipulated norms of IBM/MoEF are as detailed.

4.1 AIR POLLUTION CONTROL MEASURES

The present ambient air quality measurements in the mine area are well within the limits.

Due to the proposed production of 2,160 Cum/Year of colour granite, there will be

marginal increase in dust concentrations.




Mitigative measures suggested for air pollution control are based on the baseline ambient

air quality monitoring data. From the point of view of maintenance of an acceptable

ambient air quality in the region, it is desirable that air quality should be monitored on a

regular basis to check it vis-à-vis the standards prescribed by CPCB and in cases of non-

compliance appropriate mitigative measures shall be adopted.

The following dust prone areas are identified for adopting proper control measures in the

mine area.

i) Drilling & Wire Saw Cutting & Blasting

ii) Excavation

iii) Transportation

The environmental control measures which will be implemented to control the fugitive

dust released from the proposed production are given below:

Wet drilling system & Dust proof

Optima Wire Saw Cutting (using water reduces dust)

Use of sharp drill bits for drilling holes. The charge concentration of the

explosives will be between 10 – 40 grams per linear meter.

Water sprinkling arrangements such as specially fabricated tankers mounted on

tipper are deployed at mine site to control the fugitive dust generation from the

haulage roads.

Regular grading of haul roads and service roads to clear accumulation of loose

material

The blasted blocks (temporary) are wetted by spraying water

Avoiding blasting during high windy periods, night times and temperature

inversion periods.

Excavation operations are suspended during periods of very strong winds.

Massive afforestation for control of dust

Spraying of water on sub grade stacks




The vehicles and machinery are kept in well-maintained condition so that

emission of fugitive constituents is minimized.

Plantation of wide leaf trees, creepers, tall grass around working pit, along roads

will help suppress dust.

Tall trees with an average height of 5 m will be developed all along the boundary

of the lease area to minimize the dispersion of the dust from the mining.

Periodical monitoring of air quality to take steps to control the pollutants.

4.1.1 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY MEASURES

All the precautions would be adopted to prevent dust generation at site and to be

dispersed into the outer environment. However, for the safety of workers at site, engaged

at strategic locations/dust generation points like drilling, loading and unloading points,

etc., dust masks would be provided. Dust masks would prevent inhalation of RSPM

thereby reducing the risk of lung diseases and other respiratory disorders. Regular health

monitoring of workers will be carried out.

4.2 NOISE POLLUTION CONTROL MEASURES

The ambient noise level monitoring is carried out in and around the proposed mine shows

that ambient noise levels are well within the stipulated limits of CPCB.

Noise generation may be for an instant, intermittent or for continuous periods, with low

to high decibels. Periodic inspection and checks of the risk prone areas and equipments

have to be conducted.

To control noise pollution during the proposed mining operations following steps will be

practiced.

The noise generated by the machinery will be reduced by proper lubrication of the

machinery and equipment.

The workers employed should be provided with personal hearing protection

equipment, with earmuffs and earplugs combined, as a protection from the high

noise level generated at the plant site.




The provision of green barrier along the boundary will further reduce the

propagation of noise level generated.

Limiting time exposure of workers to excessive noise.

Speed of trucks entering or leaving the mine is limited to moderate speed of 25

kmph to prevent undue noise from empty tippers.

Safety in Blasting

Care should be taken to evacuate the mining area completely at the time of low explosive

blasting operations. The blasting team should be equipped with all personal safety and

precautionary measure. The following safety measures will be given attention while

conducting the blasting operations.

A blasting SIREN should be used at the time of blasting for audio signal.

Before blasting and after blasting, red & green flags should be displayed as visual

signals.

Warning notice boards indicating the time of blasting and NOT TO TRESPASS

are displayed prominently.

4.3 WATER POLLUTION CONTROL MEASURES

The action program for minimizing adverse affects on water regime is to prevent wash-

off of mine water and uncontrolled run-off water during monsoon. Proposed measures for

this are as follows:

a) Building/extending of retention/toe walls at the foot of the dumps

b) Construction of Garland drains along the slopes to divert the rainwater course

away from the dumping areas.

c) Covering of dump slopes with grass plantation to stabilize and prevent erosion.

d) Plantation of trees along the ridges and slopes.




4.4 LAND ENVIRONMENT

The Dhanbad declaration on Environmental Management in Mining Industry states “It is

imperative that in order to ensure the continued and sustained progress of the mining

industry in India, the environmental dimensions should be integrated into the planning,

design, development, operation and working practices of quarry on scientific and rational

lines, by the Governments and the industry in a mutually reinforcing manner”. The land

related Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been presented here under two

sections viz., Soil & Water conservation and Afforestation.

Storage and Reuse of Top Soil:

Topsoil removed during clearing of the area for granite extraction shall be stacked

separately to check the erosion of the stacked soil. A retaining wall shall be constructed

all around the topsoil stockyard. Planting of grass and local species etc., are proposed on

the surface of this stack to prevent erosion and to increase the soil nitrogen. As per the

analysis of the soil samples they are found to be basic in nature. During afforestation, it is

recommended to plant fast growing species with good canopy cover and dense leaf

density and some ornamental species to give a good aesthetic look. It is recommended to

sow neem, mahogany plants as soil and climatic conditions are suitable for the growth of

these plants.

Solid Waste Management

Removal of weathered rock and the rock waste is the only solid waste that will be

generated from this mine. Some of the material from the waste may be sorted out and

used for making small blocks to be used by the local unit for making tiles. The market for

tiles is good at the moment and they will offer a better substitute for marble in terms of

price and quality. Some rejected and unsorted material may be used in the civil

engineering projects in the vicinity of the area. The waste material can also be crushed

into smaller sizes and can be used as road metal

The waste generated during the five years may be dumped in the zone separately reserved

for dumping within the Q.L. area. The dump is located in the Northeastern part of the

area. The dump will be designed in such that it will have slopes equal to the angle of




repose of such material. Garland drains have to be sunk along around the leading edge of

the dump. A retaining wall will be constructed around the dump to preventing the

slanting of boulders Care will be taken to minimize the waste generation at the source.

About 5040 m3/Year of waste will be generated from this mine. The waste generated

during the five years may be dumped in the zone separately reserved for dumping in the

adjoining to the quarry lease. The length of the dump is proposed to be 150 m, width 100

m and height will be about 6 m. The slope will be maintained at 35 degrees. The dumps

will have to design in such that it will have slopes equal to the angle of repose of such

material.

Stabilization of Dumps: Since the waste generated is only rock debris and boulders

vegetal growth is not possible on the waste dumps. A retaining wall will be constructed

around the dump to preventing the slanting of boulders.

Land Restoration/Reclamation:

Land restoration or reclamation of the area is very essential in any mining industry.

Proper measures adopted during restoration will control most of the adverse

environmental impacts of Quarry and also improve the aesthetic beauty of the area. Due

to the Quarry activities in this area the profile of the ground will change due to formation

of pits. At the end of the Quarry operations, the top soil/mineral rejects will be utilized

for back filling wherever suitable and rehabilitated.

Following steps shall be taken for improving and protecting the environment.

a) Quarry lease area

b) Surrounding the Quarry lease area.

c) Surrounding the statutory buildings

d) On the undisturbed virgin lease area.

Surrounding the Mining area

The dust generated during the quarrying operations will be carried by wind and will be

deposited over the trees and on the adjacent area around the quarry in the buffer zone. To

filter this dust, a green belt of 10m width shall be developed along the quarry lease area

i.e., around ultimate pit limit, this green belt will also act as sound barrier. In between the




tree saplings, grass and bushes shall be grown. Creation of the green belt around the lease

areas shall be undertaken on priority basis and shall be completed concurrent to Quarry

over a 10-year period.

Surrounding the statutory buildings

All around the proposed statutory buildings and along the road sides trees shall be planted

in addition to the existing ones which will protect the workers from the noise and dust.

To plant trees around the statutory buildings, the topsoil that is going to be mined from

the area shall be laid to form a strip of 10-15m width and 0.5m thickness.

On the undisturbed virgin lease area:

The undisturbed virgin lease area shall be utilized for afforestation purposes by

developing the area with local varieties. This work shall be done after the cessation of

Quarry operations.

4.4.3 Afforestation Plan

Each year some part of the barrier zone will be subjected to afforestation and care will be

taken to protect the sapling. Fruit growing trees are proposed to planted. The table below

shows the afforestation plan.

Table showing programme of year wise afforestation for the five year period

YEAR No of Plants Area Covered In Ha.

2011-2012 20

375

2012-2013 20

375

2013-2014 20

375

2014-2015 20

375

2015-2016 20

375

Total 100 1,875

Apart from the green belts and aesthetic plantation for eliminating fugitive emissions and

noise control, all other massive plantation efforts shall be decided and executed with the




assistance and co-operation of the local community. Based on the community needs the

afforestation would mainly aim at:

a) Protection & Development of Natural Vegetation

b) Protection of soil erosion

c) Plantations of fuel wood blocks to meet the energy requirements.

4.5 SOCIO ECONOMIC BENEFITS

There is positive impact on socio-economics of people living in the villages. The villages

in buffer zone depend upon agriculture. Mining operations in the subject area has positive

impact by providing direct and indirect job opportunities. There will be indirect

employment opportunities in transportation of ore to destination.

4.6 POST PROJECT MONITORING

The Lessee will monitor the environmental parameters as per APPCB/IBM/CPCB

guidelines

4.7 IMPLEMENTATION OF EMP & MONITORING PROGRAMME

The environment management plan is detailed on the basis of impact assessment. Control

and mitigation measures for the adverse impacts envisaged. As the major environmental

attributes have been confined to the project area alone, implementations of the proposed

control measures and monitoring thereof will be undertaken on the regional basis. The

Lessee will ensure the implementation of the measures within the mine area and carryout

efficient monitoring. In order to implement the measures suggested for mitigating the

adverse impacts on the environment, it is suggested to monitor the environmental

parameters regularly.

The details of investments to carryout the regular monitoring and pollution control

measures are given below in table – 2.




Table – 2: Cost of Environmental Protection Measures (in Rs.)

Sl.No Description Item Capital

Cost

Recuring

Cost Remarks

1 Air Pollution

Nose Marks - 2,000.00

Replaceable, and

cost can increase

with time

Cloth for drillers - 3,000.00 Issued thrice in a

year

Gunny bags for

covering the surface

of jackhammer

holes

- 1,500.00 As and when

needed

Road wetting and

plant water feeding 50,000.00 125,000.00

Water tanker cost @

two tankers per day

for 8 months

Plantation on road

side plus

maintenance

30,000.00 25,000.00 Re-plant the non-

surviving plants

2 Water

Pollution

Construction of

garland drains 100,000.00 50,000.00

Once only (For

manual de-silting)

De-silting

operations - 22,000.00

Yearly and manual

operations

Construction of

check dams 50,000.00 30,000.00

Once in year, cost

incurred is to buy

sand bags and

filling sand

Construction of

retaining wall for

waste dump

120,000.00 35,000.00

Cost of construction

of wall around the

dip side of the

dump.

3 Noise

Pollution

Maintenance of

machinery suitably

– Rs. 4000 per 3

months

40,000.00 20,000.00 Included in main

cost

PPE’s like Ear

muffs – Rs. 15 each 10,000.00 5,000.00 Once in six months

4

Occupational

Health &

Safety

Providing First aid

kits – 4 No’s and

fire extinguishers –

5 No’s

10,000.00 5,000.00

Once in year,

replace by

conducting

periodical checkup




Providing Personal

protective

equipments to all

employees (hand

gloves, safety shoe

and helmets)

40,000.00 23,000.00

Included in air

pollution and noise

pollution

Training and

awareness programs

on risk factors

during emergencies

by the experts

15,000.00 10,000.00

Once in six months

and create sign

boards about the

risk and safety

precautions

regularly

Periodical medical

checkup and supply

of medicines – Rs.

200 per head

6,000.00 5,000.00

Once in a year and

supply of medicines

for every three

months

5 Environmental

monitoring

Ambient air quality

studies – Once in

six months – 3

locations

- 25,000.00

MoEF /NABL

recognized

laboratories

Water quality

studies – Once a

year – 3 Locations

- 8,000.00

Noise studies – once

in six months – 3

Locations

- 7,000.00

Vibration studies –

Once in year – 1

location

- 10,000.00

6 CSR

Activities

For providing

School uniform,

Books and health

camp etc.

100,000.00 80,000.00

TOTAL 571,000.00 491,500.00

The applicant will adhere to all the terms & conditions laid in respect of safe working

keeping in view of the sustainable Environmental Management and will comply with the

provisions of the Environmental Protection Act-1986, The Mines Act-1952 & Mineral

Conservation & Development Rules-1988 and any other Rules notified from time to time.




CONCLUSIONS, SUGGESTIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS

The Mining method proposed as per the approved Mining Plan from Dept. of Mines &

Geology is small-scale semi mechanical mining activities without deployment of deep

hole drilling and use of Heavy machinery. The actual method of mining Colour Granite is

by slicing. Based on the appraisal of the existing environmental scenario coupled with

the assessment studies carried out, it is concluded that there is no long term

environmental impact due to the Colour Granite quarry at the lease area.

The particulate matter getting airborne from the mining activity gets dispersed in close

proximity itself and settles down early. The noise levels due to the proposed quarry

activity are also not of a higher order that calls for immediate corrective measures. The

ground water analysis indicates that the sources do not get influx of pollutants from the

quarry activity. There is positive socio-economic front in the surrounding region due to

the proposed mining industry. The practice of afforestation scheme is a step in the right

direction towards achieving ecological balance.

Suggestions/Recommendations

Even though there is no perceptible impact from the quarry activity on the environment of

the region, it is imperative that mitigative measures have got to be implemented on full

scale for creating environmental balance and intern maintain the ecology of the region.

The following suggestions/recommendations merit due consideration in this regard.

As no control over wind can be exercised, the frequency of the dust

suppression measures like constant watering of the haul roads shall be

practiced.

Afforestation as envisaged in the mining plan is to be carried out so that it

not only enhances the green canopy but also stop the spread of dust

particles and air borne pollutants.

Surface water conservation measures and groundwater recharge be given

high priority.

OVER AN EXTENT OF 5.0 HECTARES OF COLOUR GRANITE MINE · POKARNA LIMITED is conscious of its...

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