Initial Environmental Examination (Draft) Annexes · 2019-05-28 · ANNEXURES Annexure 1: Minimum Ground Clearance as Per IE-1956 (Rule 77) Voltage Mandatory ground clearance as per

Initial Environmental Examination (Draft) — Annexes

Project Number: 51308-001 May 2019

India: Chennai-Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor: Power Sector Investment Project

Prepared by Tamil Nadu Transmission Company (TANTRANSCO), Government of Tamil Nadu (Department of Energy) for the Asian Development Bank.

This initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “terms of use” section of this website. In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.

LIST OF ANNEXURES

Annexure 1: Minimum Ground Clearance as Per IE-1956 (Rule 77) Annexure 2: Site Analysis for Grid Substations Annexure 3: Route Analysis for Transmission Lines Annexure 4: Inventory along the Transmission Lines Annexure 5: Environmental Audit Checklist for Electric Power Transmission Substations Annexure 6: Standards, Baseline Environment Monitoring for Air, Water, Noise and

Soil Sampling for Subprojects Annexure 7: National Parks and Sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu State Annexure 8: Important Bird Area Information Annexure 9: Details of Sample Public Consultations Annexure 10: Terms of Reference for National Safeguards Consultant for Monitoring

during Construction and comissioning Annexure 11: Due Diligence Report of 2x800 Uppur Super Critical Coal based

Thermal Power Plant

ANNEXURES

Annexure 1: Minimum Ground Clearance as Per IE-1956 (Rule 77)

Voltage Mandatory ground clearance as per I.E Rule 77

66 kV 6.1 meters 132 kV 6.1 meters 220 kV 7.0 meters 400 kV 8.84 meters 800 kV 12.40 meters

Clearances from Buildings of HT and EHT voltage lines IE Rule 80

Vertical Distance

High voltage lines up to 33 kV 3.7 Meter Extra High Voltage 3.7 Meter + Add 0.3 meter for every additional 33KV

Horizontal clearance between the conductor and Building

High Voltage Up to 11 kV 1.2 Meter 11 kV To 33 kV 2.0 Meter Extra High Voltage 2.0 Meter + Add 0.3 meter for every additional 33KV

Clearance above ground of the lowest conductor As per IE Rule 77

Overhead Line Across Street Low and Medium Voltage 5.8 Meter High Voltage 6.1 Meter Overhead Line Along Street (Parallel To Street) Low and Medium Voltage 5.5 Meter High Voltage 5.8 Meter Overhead Line Without Across or Along Street Low/Medium/HT line up to 11 kV If Bare Conductor

4.6 Meter

Low/Medium/HT line up to 11 kV If Insulated Conductor

4.0 Meter

Above 11 kV Line 5.2 Meter Above 33 kV Line 5.8 Meter + Add 0.3 meter for every additional 33KV

ROW WIDTH FOR VALLEYS 1. TANTRANSCO is following the Electrical Rules 77 and 80 which is strictly followed and as per guidelines. Therefore, it meets all national and international standards.

Supply voltage

No of circuits

Maximum ROW As per guidelines

Minimum ROW ‘’A”

Minimum ROW under conductor in valleys ** “B”=D+3

Conductor to Conductor Distance ‘’D”

Effect of Conductor Swing & Sag ##“E”

Distance on either side of the extreme end conductor(To be only considered in areas under valleys)

Clearance from conductor to tree. As per Indian Electricity rules “C”

400 kV Double ckt.

46m 30 m 20 m 16.40m 1.3m 1.5m 5.5m

220 kV Double ckt.

35m 22m 15 m 10.4m 1m 1.5m 4.6m

132 kV Double ckt.

27m 19m 13 m 9.2m 0.61m 1.5m 4m

66 kV Double ckt.

18m 12m 7.0 m 3.78m 0.56m 1.5m 3.4m

33 kV Double Ckt

15m 9m 6.0 m 2.6m 0.4m 1.5m 2.8m

Annexure 2: Site Analysis for Grid Substations List of Projects

Substation Operating voltages (kV)

S1 Virudhunagar (2x1500 MVA) 765/400 S2 Ottapidaram (2x500 MVA) + (2x200 MVA) 400/230/110

New bays at associated substations Quantity

S3.1 400 kV bays at Existing Kamuthi substation 2 S3.2 400 kV bays at Existing Kayathar substation 2 S3.3 110 kV bay provisions at Existing Vijayapuri substation 1 Sub total 5

COMPONENT I: Substations S1 – 765/400 kV Virudhunagar (2x1500MVA) Grid Substation

SNo Description Site

1. Substation details 765/400 kV Virudhunagar substation with 2x1500 MVA, 765/400 kV ICTs

1a Area (dimensions) 226.53 acres

1b Geographical coordinates Mannarkottai & Valayapatti Village 9° 26' 41.827" N 77° 59' 52.876" E

1c Slope/Plain Land Plain

1d Amount of land cutting required Filling required in depressions

2 Number of transformers 2x1500MVA (3x500 MVA ICT each)

3 Number of Bays 2 No 765 kV bays, 6 Nos 400 kV bays

4 Size/ type of oil sump Sump pits & Oil collecting pit etc., which are covered at top, designed for a live load of 500 kg/sq.m

5 Ownership of land (Private / Forest/ Other Government Department/ Other) - Private - Government

Private

6 Private land (in Bighas) 230 acres has been identified in Mannarkottai Village and Valayapatti Village

(i) Agriculture:- a. Irrigated b. Non-irrigated

Non-irrigated

(ii) Non-Agriculture/ Private waste land / banjar. No data available

(iii) House or Building: a. Residential b. Non-Residential

None

7.a Distance from Nearest River/coastal area 61 km from coastal area

7.b Distance from Nearest National / State Highway 9 km from NH 7

7.c Distance from Nearest Forest Area 62 km Meghamalai WLS

7.b Distance from Nearest Village / town 20 km from Virudhunagar

7.e Distance from industry or thermal power plant

8. Distance from Interstate / International Boundaries

65 km from international waters

9. Nos. of Forest Trees:- a. Trees to be felled b. Trees to be lopped

No data

10. Nos. of private trees No data

SNo Description Site

(i) Fruit Trees: a. Trees to be felled b. Trees to be lopped

(ii) Non-Fruit Trees: a. Trees to be felled b. Trees to be lopped

11. Altitude of substation 95 m

12. Nearest distance from Airport 52 km from Madurai airport

13. Distance from nearest religious or Archaeological sites

Not determined

14. Name of villages involved/Name of District Mannarkottai Village and Valayapatti Village, Virudhunagar district

(Source DPR and site visits) S2 – 400/230/110 kV Ottapidaram (2x500MVA) + (2x200MVA) Grid substation

No Description Site

1. Substation details Establishment of 400/230-110 kV substation at Ottapidaram with 2x500MVA, 400/230 kV ICTs & 2x200MVA, 400/110 kV ICTs

1a Area (dimensions) 60.61 acres has been registered and the balance 12.33 cents is under the process of registration (DPR estimates)

1b Geographical coordinates Saminthan Village 8° 53' 39.695" N 78° 2' 53.010" E

1c Slope/Plain Land Plain

1d Amount of land cutting required None

2 Number of transformers 2x500 MVA and 2x200 MVA ICTs

3 Number of Bays 6 Nos. 400 kV bays 4 Nos 230 kV bays 5 No. 110 kV bays

4 Size/ type of oil sump Sump pits & Oil collecting pit etc., which are covered at top, designed for a live load of 500 kg/sq.m

5 Ownership of land (Private / Forest/ Other Government Department/ Other) - Private - Government

Ind Bharat, a private IPP

6 Private land (in Bighas) 60.61 acres (i) Agriculture:- c. Irrigated d. Non-irrigated

(ii) Non-Agriculture/ Private waste land / banjar.

(iii) House or Building: c. Residential d. Non-Residential

7.a Distance from Nearest River/Coast 15 km from coast

7.b Distance from Nearest National / State Highway 5.12 km from NH 45B

7.c Distance from Nearest Forest Area No data

7.d Distance from Nearest Village / town 3 km from Puthiamputhur

No Description Site

7e. Distance from any industry/thermal power plant 1.3 km from thermal power plant

8. Distance from Interstate / International Boundaries 26 km international waters

9.. Nos. of Forest Trees:- c. Trees to be felled d. Trees to be lopped

None

10.. Nos. of private trees Not estimated

(iii) Fruit Trees: c. Trees to be felled d. Trees to be lopped

Nil

(iv) Non-Fruit Trees: c. Trees to be felled d. Trees to be lopped

Nil

11. Altitude of substation 41 m

12. Nearest distance from Airport/railway station Aerially 25 km from Tuticorin railway station

13. Distance from nearest religious or Archaeological sites

None

14. Name of villages involved/Name of District Saminathan village, Thoothukudi

(Source DPR and site visits) S3-5. The three bays are also existing and therefore no analysis required. Data and site photographs are attached in Section 3.

Annexure 3: Route Analysis for Transmission Lines 3A.1 Maps containing 3 alternatives T1.1 Virudhunagar to Coimbatore

PLOT 1

PLOT 2

PLOT 3

PLOT 4

T1.2 Virudhunagar to Kayathar

T1.3 Virudhunagar to Thappangundu

T2.1 Ottapidaram to Udangudi

T2.2 Ottapidaram to Kamuthi

T2.3 Ottapidaram to Sipcot-Kavanoor

T2.4 Ottapidaram to Savasapuram

T2.5 Ottapidaram to Eppothumvendran

T2.6 Ottapidaram to Vijayapuri

T2.7 Ottapidaram to TTN Auto-T-off Sipcot Lines

3A.2: Transmission line alternatives

Transmission lines associated with Virudhunagar substation Route Length

(km)

T1.1 765 kV double circuit line Virudhunagar - Coimbatore 242 T12 400 kV double circuit line Virudhunagar - Kayathar 72 T1.3 400 kV double circuit line in and out at Virudhunagar for Kamuthi to Thappagundu

(proposed) line 5

Transmission lines associated with Ottapidaram substation Route Length

(km)

T2.1 400 kV double circuit line Ottapidaram - Udangudi 68 T2.2 400 kV double circuit line Ottapidaram - Kamuthi 71 T2.3 230 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Sipcot - Kavanoor line 10 T2.4 230 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Sipcot - Savasapuram line 6 T2.5 110 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Ottapidaram -

Eppothumvendran 4

T2.6 110 kV single circuit line Ottapidaram - Vijayapuri 34 T2.7 110 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for TTN Auto - T-off Sipcot line 10 Source: Anna University Route Survey 2018

COMPONENT II. Transmission T1.1: Virudhunagar 765 kV SS to Coimbatore 765 kV SS Bee line Length: 208.5 km from Virudhunagar SS Coimbatore SS

Alternative Routes

Length In km

% Deviation From Bee Line

Land use Crossing Details (km) No. of Angle Points

Number of Crossings

Forest

Built-up/ Habitation

Road Crossing

Crop Land + Plantation

Waste land

Water Bodies

0 to 30 deg

30 to 60 deg

60 to 90 deg

Total Number

River

Road (NH/SH)

Rail Line

Major Power lines

Route A

222.93

6.92 - 1.22 0.76 178.94 33.32

8.69 39 18 2 58 5 7 7 33

Route B

227.53

9.13 0.16 1.27 0.68 189.19 25.19

11.04

54 15 3 72 4 7 5 30

Route C

223.80

7.34 0.46 2.89 0.87 176.47 28.80

14.31

43 26 3 72 4 6 4 31

Route D

(Combined of Route A &

Route C)

241.90

16.02 0.89 189.57 39.11

12.31

54 33 5 92 4 7 6 31 Approved (Route

A is approve

d by TLC/Ma

durai and

Route C is

approved by TLC/

Perundurai)

Source: Anna University Route Survey 2018

T1.2: Route - 400 kV DC Line from Virudhungar 765 kV SS to Kayathar 400 kV SS Bee Line Length: 63.45 km From: Virudhunagar SS To: Kayathar SS

Alternative Routes

Length In km



Number of Crossings

Approval from TANTRANSCO

Forest

Built Up/ Habitation

Road Crossing

Crop Land+ Plantation

Waste Land

Water Bodies

0 to 30 deg

30 to 60 deg

60 to 90 deg

Total Number

River

Road (NH/SH)

Rail Line

Major Power lines

Route A

69.06 8.12

- - 0.13

37.85

27.49 3.59 11 7 5 59 2 2 1 10

Route B

67.32 5.74

- - -

41.17

22.73 3.42 20 4 3 27 2 2 1 8

Route C

72.07 11.96

- -

0.08 47.8

1 20.3 3.88 9 13 5 27 1 - 1 5

Approved by

TANTRANSC

O Source: Anna University Route Survey 2018

T2.1: Route - 400 kV DC Line from Ottapidaram 400 kV SS to Udangudi Switch Yard Bee line Length: 48.3 km From: OTTAPIDARAM 400KV SS to: UDANGUDI SWITCHYARD

Alternative Routes

Length In km



Number of Crossings


Forest

Built Up/ Habitation

Road Crossing


Waste Land

Water Bodies

Salt Pan

CRZ

0 to 30 deg

30 to 60 deg

60 to 90 deg

Total Number

River

Road (NH/SH)

Rail Line

Major Power lines

Route A

68 28.97 - - 0.024 34.75

20.95

12.23 - - 49 16 3 68 1 1 1 8 Approved by

TANTRANSC

O

Route B

52.30

8.28 - - 0.09 27.5 15.54

3.18 5.50

- 13 8 1 22 1 3 2 10

Route C

50.27

4.07 - - 0.09 29.22

13.57

7.08 0.31

- 16 3 - 19 1 3 2 13


T2.2 Route - 110KV TL LILO Ottapidaram 400 kV SS to Kamuthi SS Bee line Length: 63.55 km From: OTTAPIDARAM 400 kV SS to: Kamuthi SS

Alternative

Routes

Length In km

% Deviation

From Bee Line


Number of Crossings

Approval from

TANTRANSCO

Forest

Built Up/

Habitation

Road Cross

ing

Crop Land+ Planta

tion

Waste Lan

d

Water

Bodies

Salt Pan

0 to 30 deg

30 to 60 deg

60 to 90 deg

Total Number

River

Road

(NH/SH)

Rail Line

Major Power line

s

Route A

68.08

7.12 - - 0.064 50.93 15.39

1.70 - 11 6 - 17 1 1 - 6

Route B

71.05

10.55 - - 0.05 52.00 15.41

1.71 - 32 10 1 43 1 1 - 5 Approved by

TANTRANSCO

Route C

70.82

11.43 - - 0.055 47.74 17.95

5.09 - 6 9 - 15 1 1 - 6


T2.3: 230 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Sipcot-Kavanoor line Bee Line Length: 9.38 km From : Ottapidaram SS To: Sipcot-Kavanoor SS

Alternative Routes

Length In km



Number of Crossings


Forest


Road Crossing


Waste land

Water Bodies

0 to 30 deg

30 to 60 deg

60 to 90 deg

Total Number

River

Road (NH/SH)

Rail Line

Major Power lines

Route A

9.9 5.54 - - 0.03 6.78 3.06

0.03 5 4 1 10 - 1 - 4 Approved


T2.4: 230 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Sipcot-Savasapuram line Bee Line Length: 5.41 km From : Ottapidaram SS To: Sipcot-Savasapuram SS

Alternative Routes

Length In km



Number of Crossings


Forest


Road Crossing


Waste land

Water Bodies

0 to 30 deg

30 to 60 deg

60 to 90 deg

Total Number

River

Road (NH/SH)

Rail Line

Major Power lines

Route A

5.58 3.14 - - - 3.81 1.62

0.15 5 1 0 6 - - - 2 Approved


T2.5: 110 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Ottapidaram - Eppothumvendran line Bee Line Length: 3.44 km From : Ottapidaram SS To: Eppothumvendran SS

Alternative Routes

Length In km



Number of Crossings


Forest


Road Crossing


Waste land

Water Bodies

0 to 30 deg

30 to 60 deg

60 to 90 deg

Total Number

River

Road (NH/SH)

Rail Line

Major Power lines

Route A 3.56 3.48 - - - 1.40

2.16 - 1 1 1 3 - - - 2

Approved


T2.6: Route - 110KV TL LILO Ottapidaram 400 kV SS to Vijayapuri SS Bee line Length: 31.8 km From: OTTAPIDARAM 400KV SS to Vijayapuri SS

Alternative

Routes

Length In km

% Deviation

From Bee Line


Number of Crossings

Approval from

TANTRANSCO

Forest

Built Up/

Habitation

Road Crossing


Waste Land

Water

Bodies

Salt Pan

0 to 30 deg

30 to 60 deg

60 to 90 deg

Total

Number

River

Road

(NH/SH)

Rail Line

Major Power line

s

Route A

35.47

11.54 - - 0.061 16.96 17.81

0.64 - 9 3 - 12 - - - 4

Route B

34.43

7.63 - - 0.072 23.69 7.05

3.62 - 22

5 3 30 - - - 3 Approved

Route C

33.47

5.25 - - 0.061 21.06 11.27

1.08 - 7 5 - 12 - - - 5


T2.7: 110 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Ottapidaram – TTN Auto-T-off Sipcot line Bee Line Length: 8.26 km From : Ottapidaram SS To: TTN Auto-T-off Sipcot

Alternative Routes

Length In km



Number of Crossings


Forest


Road Crossing


Waste land

Water Bodies

0 to 30 deg

30 to 60 deg

60 to 90 deg

Total Number

River

Road (NH/SH)

Rail Line

Major Power lines

Route A

10.27 24.33 - - - 6.41

3.78 0.08 2 2 6 10 - - - 2

Approved

Notes: 1. The routes are planned using Land use/cover Map prepared using Resources at Satellite (5.8m resolution) and Least Cost Path Analysis in an GIS environment. The least cost path routes are generalized to minimize the number of angle points and crossings. The selection of best route from the available alternatives (Route A, Route B and Route C) is to be decided by TANTRANSCO based on the above details in the table and the maps attached earlier. 2. The given co-ordinates of Angle Points are to be adjusted to suit the local field constraints. For example, if the agricultural land is converted as residential layout and with no buildings on it, it may not be very clearly visible on satellite imagery. Hence, if the route encounters such residential/industrial land, the field engineer can modify the angle point location to overcome the field constraints. Source: Anna University Route Survey 2018

Annexure 4: Inventory along the Transmission Lines

TOWER No.

From (km) To (km)

Section length

Name of village/Tehsil/District

Approx. Distance of transmission line from nearby village/Housing (km)

Ownership of Land (Private Govt. Forest)/ Use of Land

Use of Land (Cultivation, plantation/barren)

Name of Crops

Number of trees under cutting/trimming

Types (Names) of Trees cut

T1.1 765 kV double circuit line Virudhunagar - Coimbatore

5-10km Siluvaipuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana

25 Neam, Palm, English babool

10-12km

Kutiampuli 1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana

24 Neem, Coconut, Palm, Emali

12-15km

Sivaganapuram

2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


15-17km

Servaikuranmadan

2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


17-20km

Sakammalpuram

2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


20-25km

Sampadi 2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


25-35km

Agaram 2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana

30 Neem, Palm, Coconut, Babool

35-40km

Ramchandrapuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana

36 Palm Tree, Neem, Babool, Coconut

40-50km

Narasanvillai

1 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana

42 Palm Tree, Neem, Babool

50-55km

Nagakaniyapuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


55-60km

Thalavapuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


60-65km

N Muthiyapuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


65-70km

Kallamozhi 1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


5-10km Siluvaipuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


10-12km


Cultivable

Rice, Banana


12-15km

Sivaganapuram

2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


15-17km

Servaikuranmadan

2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


TOWER No.

From (km) To (km)

Section length





Name of Crops



T1.2 400 kV double circuit line Virudhunagar - Kayathar

Chandiragiri

1 Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Maize, Dal

3 Neem

Poosanoor 1 Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Maize, Dal

10 Neem, Palm, Shrubs

O Lakshminarayanpuram

1 Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Maize, Dal


Muthiyapuram

1 Private

Cultivable

Coriender, Chilly, Maize, Dal


Pondampulli

1 Private

Cultivable

Coriender, Chilly, Maize, Dal, Onion


Sathuranayakkan Patti

1 Private

Cultivable



Thoppadiapatti

1 Private

Cultivable



Nerinjipatti 1 Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Maize, Dal, Rice, Cotton


Idaiyankulam

1 Private

Cultivable



Chandiragiri

1 Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Maize, Dal

3 Neem

Poosanoor 1km Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Maize, Dal


T2.1 400 kV DC TL from Ottapidaram to 400 kV SS Udangudi

TOWER No.

From (km) To (km)

Section length





Name of Crops



5-10km Siluvaipuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


10-12km


Cultivable

Rice, Banana


12-15km

Sivaganapuram

2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


15-17km

Servaikuranmadan

2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


17-20km

Sakammalpuram

2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


20-25km

Sampadi 2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


25-35km

Agaram 2 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana

30 Neem, Palm, Coconut, Babool

35-40km

Ramchandrapuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


40-50km

Narasanvillai

1 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


50-55km

Nagakaniyapuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


55-60km

Thalavapuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


60-65km

N Muthiyapuram

1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


65-70km

Kallamozhi 1.5 Private

Cultivable

Rice, Banana


T2.2 400kv DC-TL from Ottapidaram to Kamuthi

Chandiragiri

1 Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Maize, Dal

3 Neem

Poosanoor 1 Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Maize, Dal


O Lakshminarayanpuram

1 Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Maize, Dal


Muthiyapur 1 Privat Cultiva Coriender, 10 Neem, Palm, Shrubs

TOWER No.

From (km) To (km)

Section length





Name of Crops



am e ble Chilly, Maize, Dal

Pondampulli

1 Private

Cultivable



Sathuranayakkan Patti

1 Private

Cultivable



Thoppadiapatti

1 Private

Cultivable



Nerinjipatti 1 Private

Cultivable



Idaiyankulam

1 Private

Cultivable

Chilly, Rice, Cotton


T2.3 230KV TL LILO Ottapidaram- SIPCOT & Kavanoor

0-2 Saminathan 2 Private

Cultivable

Green Gram, Maize, Bajara

4 English Babool

2-4 Laxmipuram

1 Private

Cultivable


3 English Babool, Neem

4-7 Sinthalakuttai

1 Private

Cultivable


5 Babool, Neem, Palm tree

7-10 Sinthalakuttai

1 Private

Cultivable



TOWER No.

From (km) To (km)

Section length





Name of Crops



10-12 Sinthalakuttai

1 Private

Cultivable



12-15 Kumarapuram

2 Private

Cultivable


3 Babool, Neem

T2.4 230 kV TL LILO Ottapidaram SIPCOT & Savasapuram


Non Cultivable

4 English Babool

2-4 Sillanathan 2 Private

Non Cultivable

5 Babool, Neem, Shrubs


Non Cultivable

6 Neem, Babool, Palm Tree

6-9 Venkatachalpuram

1 Private

Cultivable


4 Neem, Babool, Palm tree

9-11 Valasamutharam

1 Private

Cultivable



T2.5 110 kV TL LILO Ottapidaram TTN Auto & TSIPCOT Feeder


Cultivable




Cultivable



4-6 Kumargiri 2 Private

Cultivable

Green Gram, Maize,


TOWER No.

From (km) To (km)

Section length





Name of Crops



Bajara

6-8 South Veerapandiyan puram

1.5 Private

Cultivable



8-10 South Veerapandiyan puram

3.5 Private

Non Cultivable

No Crop 8 Palm Tree, Neem, Babool

T2.6 110 kV TL LILO Ottapidaram-Vijayapuri


Cultivable

Green Gram, Maize, Bajara, Cotton


5-10 Ottapidaram

2.5 Private

Cultivable


14 Neem, Babool

10-15 Keelamudiman

2.5 Private

Cultivable



15-20 Pasuvanthanai

2.5 Private

Cultivable



20-25 Kamanayakkampatti

2 Private, Barren

Cultivable


10 Neem, Emali, Babool, Palm tree

25-30 Vijayapuri 1 Private, Barren

Cultivable

Green Gram, Maize, Bajara,


TOWER No.

From (km) To (km)

Section length





Name of Crops



Cotton

T2.7 110 kV DC LILO Ottapidaram-Eppothumvendran


Barren 10 English Babool







Annexure 5: Environmental Audit Checklist for Electric Power Transmission Substations

A. Project Details 1. The existing substations are located in Kayathar in Thoothukudi district, Kamuthi in

Ramanathapuram District and Vijayapuri in Thoothukudi District. The direct impact area of augmentation has been defined as the total land extent where bay connectivity works are conducted in the above existing substations.

2. Expansion of bay facilities in these substations will be carried out under component 1 and 2 of the

CKIC Power Project. All three substations have existing land area that is bounded on all sides. Kayathar Substation Details 3. The Kayathar substation has 91 acres and augmentation of the existing 400 bays to connect 400

kV double circuit line Virudhunagar – Kayathar is expected at this substation. Additional equipment to be installed at 400/230/110 kV existing AIS substation at Kayathar is as follows:

• 2 nos. of 400 kV bays at Kayathar 400 kV SS for connecting DC line from Virudhunagar 765/400 kV substation.

• 2 Nos. of 400 KV Reactor (2x100 MVAR).

Kamuthi Substation Details 4. The 400/230/110 kV existing AIS substation at Kamuthi substation has 70 acres and extension of

the existing 400 kV line bays to connect the 400 kV double circuit line Ottapidaram - Kamuthi constructed by the Project is expected at this substation. Additional equipment to be installed at Kamuthi is as follows:

• 2 nos. of 400 kV bays at Kayathar 400 kV SS for connecting 400 kV DC quad line from Ottapidaram 400 kV substation.

• 2 Nos. of 400 KV Reactor (2x100 MVAR).

Vijayapuri Substation Details 5. The Vijayapuri substation has 5 acres and extension of the existing 110 kV line bays to connect

the 110 kV single circuit line Ottapidaram - Vijayapuri is expected at this substation. Additional equipment to be installed at 110/11 kV existing AIS substation at Vijayapuri is as follows:

• 110 kV Bay provision at Vijayapuri 110 kV substation to connect 110 kV SC line on DC tower from the proposed Ottapidaram 400/110 kV SS.

B. Methodology Followed: 6. Method used for field data collection were the following:

• Consultants conducted a site visit to the three substations listed above.

• Interviewing staff and any workers engaged at these substations.

• Review all health and safety aspects, tools and plant, cleanliness, proper equipment usage

and maintenance procedures followed.

• Reviewing all storage facilities for oil, batteries, SF6 cylinder, trash and empty oil durms etc.

• Comparing work procedure at these substations with the EMP applied for the project; review work place practices at the substation.

• Interviewing the likely project affected households due to the project at the substation sites.

• Reviewing any complaints received in the area and check complaint redress process and the situation of current complaints.

C. Applicable Environmental Policies and other Legislations for substatons (Supplements Section 2 earlier) 7. The Government of India (GOI’s) National Environmental Policy 2006 and ADB’s Safeguard Policy

2009 as well as associated procedures and guidelines thereto apply to all components/subprojects funded by ADB. The sub-projects included under this program should comply with the requirements of the following Acts, Rules, Notifications and Standards of GoI and policies as well as ADB safeguard requirements.

• The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 as amended;

• The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 as amended;

• The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986;

• The Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 1994 as amended;

• The Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989 as amended;

• The Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000;

• The Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001 as amended;

• The Indian Forest Act, 1927 as amended;

• The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 as amended;

• The Biological Diversity Act, 2002;

• The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 as amended.

• The National Environmental Policy, 2006 of GoI

• The Safeguard Policy, 2009 of ADB 8. The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (CC), Government of India, vide its

Notification No. S.O. 1533 dated 14-09-2006, reengineered the EIA process in India and also decentralized some powers and made provision to constitute the State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) and the State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) for performing functions under the said Notification. The Environmental regulations, legislation, policy guidelines and control that may impact this project, are the responsibility of a variety of government agencies. The principal Environment Regulatory Agency in India is the MoEFCC which formulates environmental policies and accords environmental clearances for different projects.

9. The Important environmental legislations in India are given below:

(i) The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, amended 1988 (ii) The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Rules, 1975 (iii) The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981, amended 1987 (iv) The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Rules, 1982 (v) The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, amended 1991 and including the following

Rules/Notification issued under this Act.

• The Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, including amendments

• The Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000

• The Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989

• The Hazardous Wastes (management, handling and transboundary movement) Rules 2009

• The Bio-Medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 1998

• Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000,

• Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2002

• Eco Sensitive Zone Notification: Restricting location of industries, mining and other activities in Doon Valley (UP)

• Ministry of Environment and Forest, Guidelines for EIA for River Valley Projects.

• The Environmental Clearance Notification, 1994

• Environmental Impact Assessment Notification-2006

• Environmental Standards of CPCB (vi) Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 (vii) National policy on Resettlement and Rehabilitation for Project Affected Families 2003, MORD

(2004) (viii) The Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, amended 1993 (ix) The Wildlife (Protection) Rules, 1995 (x) The Indian Forest Act, 1927 (xi) Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, amended 1988 (National Forest Policy, 1988)

• Forest (Conservation) Rules, 1981 amended 1992 and 2003

• Guidelines for diversion of forest lands for non-forest purpose under the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980

(xii) The National Environmental Appellate Authority Act, 1997 Key Environmental Legislations

Name Scope and Objective Key Areas Operational Agencies/Key Players

Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution Act, 1974)

To provide for the prevention and control of water pollution and enhancing the quality of water

Controls sewage and industrial effluent discharges

Central and State Pollution Control Board

Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution Act - 1981)

To provide for the prevention and control of air pollution

Controls emissions of air pollutants

Central and State Pollution Control Boards

Forest Act, 1927 To consolidate acquisition of common property such as forests

Regulates access to natural resources, state has a monopoly right over land, categories forests

State government, forest settlement officers

Forest Conservation Act, 1980

To halt India’s rapid deforestation and resulting Environmental degradation

Restriction on de-reservation and using forest for non-forest purpose

Central Government

Wildlife Protection Act, 1980

To protect wildlife Creates protected areas (national parks, sanctuaries) categories of wildlife which are protected

Wildlife Advisory Boards; Central Zoo Authorities

Environment Protection Act, 1986 Environmental Impact Assessment Notifications 1994

To provide for the protection and improvement of Environment

An umbrella legislation; supplement laws

Central government nodal agency MoEF; can deplete powers to state department of Environment

D. Audit Observations 10. All three substations were visited in February 2019. During the visit visual inspection and cross

checking of critical issues related to Environment audit issues were used for preparing the checklist. The checklist identifies issues as per the following criteria according to ADB SPS 2009 guidelines:

• General environmental management

• Waste management practices

• Hazardous material management

• Ground water and soil contamination control

• Occupational health and safety management, and

• Noise management 11. Details for site visits and substation details collected for each substation are list in A5.A for

Kayathar substation, A5.B for Kamuthi substation and A5.C for Vijayapuri substation respectively. 12. These tables provide detailed description of each of the existing substations where additional bays

will be constructed. The table contains details regarding project components that are compliant or non-compliant with national and IFC/World Bank EHS guidelines.

Table A5.A: Physical Features of Existing Kayathar substation 2 nos 400 kV Bay Extension

Features Specification/Type of Equipment

Year of Make/Condition

Land ownership TANTRANSCO 2014 / 91 Acres (36.69 hectares)

Scheme Main busbar scheme

Substation type Outdoor 2014

Voltage kV 400/230kV/110kV

Switchgear type Existing: Air-Insulated Bay extension: Air-insulated

Air Insulated 2013/ SIEMENS/ Good condition 50 Numbers Rated Voltage: 420 kV

Insulation medium power circuit breaker

SF6 Gas/Oil Sf6 Gas SIEMENS-2013 Numbers; 50 Rated voltage: 420kV

Transformer Oil cooled 1 Number: Good condition/ 2013/ Transformers and rectifier India Ltd/ 400/110kV/ 200MVA 2 numbers: Good condition / 2014: 2 No: 400/230kV/315MVA

Protection system description

Auto fighting water spray system

Auto Nitrogen Injection Fire Protection System

Bay under construction for Virudhunagar line 400kV

Bay under construction for Thennampatty 400 kV line

Information Required

Guidelines Considered Information Required

Type of oil in transformers and switchgear

Transformers Condition/year/make/nos, indicate if PCB oil used

Good/ 2013/ Transformers and rectifier India Ltd/ 1 No Good / 2014/ Transformers and rectifier India Ltd - 2 Numbers

Oil Switchgear Condition/year/make/nos, indicate if PCB oil used

No

Safe disposal of oil Storage location within yard Yes

Prevention of fires Equipment at site Nitrogen Injection Fire Protection System and Fire extinguishers available in Control Room, Admin block and Yard.

Oil Labelling for storage at site No proper storage facility available in the station. Oil is being stored in open in the yard (Refer pictures) Few drums are also found stored in small available store room in the station premises

Oil leakage Minor leakage reported in 2017. Lined pits / sumps available for the emergency oil leak situations.

Retrofitting No

Use of SF6 and other greenhouse/hazardous gases

Gas insulated switchgear Condition/year/make/nos. Good/ 2013/ SIEMENS/ 50 Numbers Rated Voltage: 420 kV

Gas insulated t/f Condition/year/make/nos -


Presence of SF6 in switchgear Yes

SF6 retrieval arrangements Available

Presence of other hazardous gases No

Storage of liquid fuels, raw and in-process materials, solvents, wastes: to prevent spills, to prevent soil contamination and to prevent ground and surface water contamination

Containment, Dikes, and Berms (e.g. for transformers)

Condition/year/make/nos Good/ 2014/ 3 Nos

Storage facility Type Small store room available

Drainage Type Open drains

Oil leakage No. of leakages in last five years

Leak reported in 2017 in Transformer. Rectified immediately

Need for extra gravel Condition Good / No need of extra gravel at this stage.

Workplace air quality

Monitoring of workplace air quality Any measurement undertaken if any

No

Good ventilation (ensure) Being ensured.

Maintenance of air quality Sufficient exhaust fans available in control room, battery room and administrative block

Providence of respiratory equipment

Condition/year/make/nos -

Enforcement of the application of personal protective equipment whenever exposure levels of fumes, solvents and other materials exceed threshold limit

Belts, ropes, gloves, helmets for workers available

Workplace noise

Noise control equipment Locations in yard by capacity No

IFC/ EHS Noise levels Any measurement undertaken since last 5 years

No measurement

Ambient Noise (dB)

Day Night Level within 70/45 dB limit No

Residential 55 45

Industrial 70 70

Maintenance of equipment Condition/year/make/nos -

Use of protective gear when noise level exceeds 85 dB

-

Other Physical Agents

Safe working area (absence of radiation, magnetic fields)

-

Monitor regularly for radiation and field levels and equipment integrity (earthing, protective shields, lockouts etc.

No such measurements being done

Electrocution

Strict procedure for de-energizing before working on electrical equipment

Strict procedure for de-energizing followed.

Training of personnel for safety Periodic safety training being


procedures conducted by Engineers

Occupational health and safety guidelines

Physical factors in the workplace signage

Available but need strengthening

Lighting (including security lights) Available

Fire detection mechanism/equipment

Locations in yard by capacity No fire detection system available. Fire fighting equipment available: Nitrogen Injection Fire Protection System for transformers. Sand buckets & Fire extinguishers

Firefighting equipment Condition/year/make/nos Available. Nitrogen Injection Fire Protection System for transformers. Sand buckets & Fire extinguishers, etc. available in yard Fire extinguishers available in control room and Admin block

Cleanness (inside and outside substation)

Need strengthening

First Aid Kit Locations in yard Reportedly available, under lock and key at the time of visit.

Features that pose safety risks (missing or broken slabs, dogged holes, etc.)

Locations in yard At many places around the yard

Fence or enclosure of the site (Restriction of unauthorized people)

Compound wall and chain link fencing available around the station.

Welfare Facilities

Safe and clean drinking water Locations Available

Toilets Location Available in side Admin block and Control room

TV/Radio/internet Internet facility available

Guard kiosk Available at the main gate

Personal Protective Equipment

Eye and face Condition/year/make/nos No

Head Condition/year/make/nos Hard hats available but need strengthenining

Hearing Condition/year/make/nos No

Hand Condition/year/make/nos Gloves available and used in Control room

Respiratory Condition/year/make/nos No

Leg and body Condition/year/make/nos No

Ambient factors in the workplace

Noise Visually within limits at the time of visit

Apparently within limits at the time of visit

Vibration Visually within limits at the time of visit



Illumination Visually within limits at the time of visit

Satisfactory

Reflections Visually within limits at the time of visit

-

Temperature Visually within limits at the time of visit


Hazardous materials Presence of SF6 Gas and Transformer oil

Presence of SF6 Gas and Transformer oil in Switchgears and transformers. Extra transformer oil stored in yard and little store room. No extra SF6 Gas stored at the time of visit.

Ionization radiation -

Training and Documentation

Regular trainings being conducted. Safety classes register available.

Training (Learning materials, equipment and tools)

-do-

Training on operational hazardous and how to control the hazards

-do-

Training on health risks, hygiene, and exposure prevention

-do-

Training on accidents and accident prevention, protective equipment and clothing

-do-

Performance Monitoring

OHSMS organization policy No OHSMS organization Policy available.

Emergency prevention, preparedness and response

SOP developed by TRANTRANSCO followed

Investigation of work related injuries, ill health, disease and accidents

No record available at station at the time of visit

Safety inspection, testing and calibration

Special maintenance being carried out by another wing (PNC)

Material handling (Hazardous and non-hazardous materials)

Storage Locations in yard by capacity Small store available, Oil being stored in the yard

Labelling Location in yard by capacity Need strengthening.

Handling Location in yard by capacity Being handled in yard.

Solid Waste/Scraps

Handling Locations in yard by capacity Dustbins only available in Admin block. Littering observed across yard.

Disposal Locations in yard by capacity Thrown outside station compound

Space for Expansion

Availability of space for expansion Locations in yard by capacity Available on the entrance side.

Photo-Gallery.

Main Gate of Station Approach road and Admin block

Information board Overview of station

New 400 kV bay No 1 under construction New 400 kV bay No 1 under construction

New bay No 2 under construction New bay No 2 under construction

Transformer No 1 Transformer No 2


Transformer No 3

Fire safety system

Fire extinguisher and alarm system

Fire Extinguishers Auto fire system

SF6 Switchgear SF6 Switchgear

Lighting arrangement in yard Storage of empty transformer oil drums in yard. Debris is strewn across yard.

Minor oil leaks Storage of oil in store

Broken slabs in yard causing health and safety hazard to workers

Sign boards in yard

Guard kiosk and security guard Residential quarters for staff

Additional land available in the premises

AC Room Battery room

Exhaust fan in battery room Improper storage in admin block

Control room Control room

Safety gloves in control room Safety class register

Oil leak trench Drainage system

Gravel Oil refilling tank

Waste mismanagement in the yard

Table A5.B: Physical Features of Existing Kamuthi substation – 2 Nos. 400 kV Bay

Extension

Features Specification/Type of

Equipment Year of Make/Condition

Land ownership TANTRANSCO 2016 (70 Acres equivalent to 28.23 hectare)

Scheme Main busbar scheme 2016

Substation type Outdoor

Voltage kV 400/230/110kV


Air Insulated ALSTOM/-2015 / Good condition 28 Number : Rated Voltage 245kV


SF6 Gas/Oil

Sf6 Gas ALSTOM/2015 / Good condition 28 Number : Rated Voltage 245kV

Features Specification/Type of

Equipment Year of Make/Condition

Transformer Oil cooled Oil Cooled 2 Number: 400/230kV, 315mva 3 Number: 400/110kV,200mva

Protection system description

Auto fighting water spray system

Auto Hydrogen gas spray system

Transformers – the open land beyond transformer earmarked for the two bays of the Grid Substation

Existing bay

Substation Layout

Information Collected from Project site




Good /2016/Transformers and Rectifier India Ltd/ 5 Nos


-


Safe disposal of oil Storage location within yard

Sumps available

Prevention of fires Equipment at site Auto Hydrogen Gas Spray System. Fire extinguishers and Sand buckets available in yard

Oil Labelling for storage at site No proper storage facility available

Oil leakage No major leaks reported till date, Lined pit available.

Retrofitting -


Gas insulated switchgear Condition/year/make/nos. Good/ 2015/ ALSTOM/ 28 Rated voltage 245 kV


Presence of SF6 in switchgear Yes

SF6 retrieval arrangements Available

Presence of other hazardous gases No



Condition/year/make/nos Available Good /2016/5

Storage facility Type Small store available. Open storage of Oil and Gas in yard observed.

Drainage Type Open drainage


No major leakage reported till date

Need for extra gravel Condition Yes, level needs to be raised up to road level.


Monitoring of workplace air quality Any measurement undertake if any

No

Good ventilation (ensure) Good ventilation in Admin bloc, Control room etc. Exhaust fans available

Maintenance of air quality Sufficient exhaust fans available in control room, battery room and administrative block




Ropes, gloves, helmets for workers available

Workplace noise

Noise control equipment Locations in yard by capacity

None


No measurements

Ambient Day Night Level within 7045 dB limit No measurements


Noise (dB)

Residential 55 45 -

Industrial 70 70 -

Maintenance of equipment Condition/year/make/nos -


-



- -



Electrocution


Strict procedure for de-energizing followed. No previous accident reported.

Training of personnel for safety procedures

Periodic safety training being conducted by Engineers



Need strengthening

Lighting (including security lights) Sufficient lighting available


Locations in yard by capacity

Available in Admin block and Control room

Firefighting equipment Condition/year/make/nos Satisfactory, need strengthening by way of providing dustbins in the yard. Empty oil drums and SF6 Gas cylinders were found stacked along with the compound wall on one end of the yard. (Refer pictures). Some scrap was found stacked under the staircase of Control room (refer picture).


Available in Control Room

First Aid Kit Locations in yard New substation, no such situation arise yet All cable trays were covered at the time of visit.


Locations in yard Surrounded by compound wall. Guarded by security guards on the gate

Fence or enclosure of the site (Restriction of unauthorized people)

Satisfactory, need strengthening by way of providing dustbins in the yard. Empty oil drums and SF6 Gas cylinders were found stacked along with the compound wall


on one end of the yard. (Refer pictures). Some scrap was found stacked under the staircase of Control room (refer picture).

Welfare Facilities

Safe and clean drinking water Locations Piped water supply not available. Need to be provided

Toilets Location Available in Admin block

TV/Radio/internet Internet available through data card

Guard kiosk Available at main gate



Head Condition/year/make/nos Need strengthening


Hand Condition/year/make/nos Gloves and rope available in control room




Noise Within limits at the time of visit

Vibration Within limits at the time of visit

Illumination Sufficient

Reflections -

Temperature -

Hazardous materials SF6 Gas and Transformer oil


Training and Documentation Regular training organized by Engineers. No training record available at the time of visit


-do-


-do-


-do-


-do-


OHSMS organization policy No such policy available


SOP being followed

Investigation of work related injuries, ill health, disease and accidents

No


Regularly being done


Storage Locations in yard by No store facility available


capacity

Labelling Location in yard by capacity

-

Handling Location in yard by capacity

Open storage of oil drums and SF6 Gas cylinders in yard.

Solid Waste/Scraps

Handling Locations in yard by capacity

Dustbins available for solid waste, Need strengthening in and around yard.

Disposal Locations in yard by capacity

Disposal of solid waste with local village Panchayat system

Space for Expansion

Availability of space for expansion Locations in yard by capacity

Yes scope for expansion Available on 3 sides except for front Gate side.

Photo-Gallery.

Main Gate of Station Admin block & Control Room

Compound wall Information board

Security guard and Kiosk Store room

Existing bay Existing bay

Transformer Transformer

Auto Hydrogen Gas Spray System Fire extinguishers

Sand buckets SF6 Gas Circuit (ALSTOM)

ALSTOM SF6 Circuit

Storage of Transformer oil and SF6 Gas in Yard

Fire Extinguishers in Admin block Smoke detection system in Control room

Oil retrieval tank Oil retrieval tank

Lighting arrangement in yard Overview of Station

Storage of oil in yard on ground Battery room

Exhaust fan & Fire extinguisher in Battery room

Control Room

Land for new bays

Control Room

AC Room Battery room

First Aid box in Control Room (not complete for electrical substation)

Gloves and Rope in Control room

AC room AC room

Storage of articles in corridor Storage of distilled water in battery room

Solid Waste Management in Station Insufficient store facility

Drainage and overview of station Adjacent ADANI Green Energy Plant

Table A5.C: Physical Features of Existing 110 kV substation Vijayapuri substation – 110 kV Bay Extension



Land ownership TANTRANSCO 09.03.2006: 3.56 Acres land

Scheme Main busbar scheme 09.03.2006 / Good

Substation type Outdoor

Voltage kV 110kV/11 kV 110/33 kV


Air-Insulated


SF6 Gas/Oil SF6 2 Nos 2005 & 2013 / Good 2 no. 110 V each

Transformer Oil cooled • 2005 / Transformers & Rectifiers India Ltd, Gujrat / Good. Voltage110/33kV

• 2013 / Venkateshwara



Electrical Industries Ltd, Chennai / Good. Voltage 110/11 kV

Protection system description Auto fighting water spray system

No. Manual fire fighting

Transformers – the open land beyond transformer earmarked for the new bays of the Grid Substation

Existing Bay Area

Substation Layout Terminal Gantry

Information Collected from Project Site

Guidelines Considered Information Required Details



• Good / 2005 / Transformers & Rectifiers India Ltd, Gujrat / 1 No and voltage 110/33 kVA

• Good / 2013 / Venkateshwara Electrical Industries Ltd, Chennai / 1 No and voltage 110/11 kVA



None

Safe disposal of oil Storage location within yard

No storage of oil being done within the station. Three old empty drums are lying in cycle parking area. There is no lined pit available.

Prevention of fires Equipment at site Manual: 12 No. Fire extinguishers available

Oil Labelling for storage at site

N/a. Three old empty drums are lying in cycle parking area. No lined pit available

Oil leakage Minor leaks observed near transformers.

Retrofitting No


Gas insulated switchgear

Condition/year/make/nos. Good / 2003 / Shreem / 1 110 kV Good / 2005/ Alstom / 1 110Kv


Presence of SF6 in switchgear

Yes

SF6 retrieval arrangements

By Special maintenance team of TANTRANSCO

Presence of other hazardous gases

No



Condition/year/make/nos No

Storage facility Type No

Drainage Type No


No major leak reported till date

Need for extra gravel Condition Good, No extra gravel required at this time


Monitoring of workplace air quality

Any measurement undertake if any

No

Good ventilation (ensure)

Control room has good ventilation. Exhaust fan available in battery room

Maintenance of air quality

-


Condition/year/make/nos Not provided


Only hand gloves available at the time of visit. Reportedly at the time of maintenance works PPE provided to maintenance team by AE/Rural wing.

Workplace noise

Noise control equipment


Not available



Not measured

Ambient Noise (dB) Day Night Level within 70/45 dB limit

No measurement in past

Residential 55 45 -

Industrial 70 70 -

Maintenance of equipment



-



-



Electrocution


Strict procedure for de-energizing followed. No previous accident reported.

Training of personnel for safety procedures

Regular monthly trainings conducted by AEE Rural.



Not available.

Lighting (including security lights)

Available, need strengthening



Fire extinguishers available near Control room.

Firefighting equipment Condition/year/make/nos Good/ 2018/ Allanne Safety Fire Engineers/12


Satisfactory but needs strengthening and improvement. Cleaning and housekeeping was good at the time of visit. Three empty oil drums were found lying in cycle parking area. Some paper scrap and litter was found on the back side of the control room.

First Aid Kit Locations in yard Reportedly available in Control room in custody of Operator.


Locations in yard None, as all tray were covered at the time of visit.

Fence or enclosure of Fenced with barbed wire


the site (Restriction of unauthorized people)

Welfare Facilities

Safe and clean drinking water

Locations No piped water supply available. Potable water being procured from nearby RO plant.

Toilets Location Available in control room

TV/Radio/internet No Personal mobile internet of operator

Guard kiosk No



Head Condition/year/make/nos No


Hand Condition/year/make/nos Gloves available in control room




Noise Apparently within limits at the time of visit

Vibration Apparently within limits at the time of visit

Illumination Visually within limits at the time of visit

Reflections Visually within limits at the time of visit

Temperature Apparently within limits at the time of visit

Hazardous materials Presence of SF6 Gas and Transformer oil in the Switchgears and transformers. No extra storage of Gas and Oil in the station,


Training and Documentation


Regular trainings given by AEE Rural. No training records available at station.


-do-


-do-


-do-


OHSMS organization policy

No OHSMS organization Policy available.


SOP developed by TRANTRANSCO followed

Investigation of work-related injuries, ill health, disease and

No record available at station at the time of visit


accidents


Special maintenance being carried out on monthly basis


Storage Locations in yard by capacity

No storage facility available in station the drums are not stored in some specific area. Solid waste and scrap is disposed off through local Panchayat system.

Labelling Location in yard by capacity

N/A

Handling Location in yard by capacity

Manual

Solid Waste/Scraps

Handling Locations in yard by capacity

Relatively clean surrounding Photos look otherwise outside the station, Inside is clean enough.

Disposal Locations in yard by capacity

Some litter found on back side of the control room . Disposal through local panchayat system

Space for Expansion

Availability of space for expansion


Space for new bay available. Scope of further expansion limited since only 3.4 acres of land available

Photo- Gallery.

Main Gate of Station Approach road inside station

Information board Overview of station

Incoming tower Terminal / outgoing lines

Transfer No 1 Transformer No 2


Switch gear Barbed fencing

Fire Extinguishers Sand buckets

Battery room Battery details displayed

Exhaust fan in battery room Store adjacent to control room

Land for new bay

Gloves in control room Single line diagram in Control room

Layout available on file Emergency numbers displayed

Control room

Oil leak near around transformer Storage of used empty drums

Empty drums Scattered litter

Fire extinguisher Scattered littering

E. Audit Report 13. Substations have been audited using the tabular criteria listed in Tables A5.A, A5.B, A5.C.

Accordingly, the major audit findings and required remedial actions for each substation are liste below:

General Observations 14. Kayathar Substation: Audit findings and the required remedial actions are as follows:

• The substation is earthed and has protective shields to minimize radiation and magnetic field effects. Nitrogen Injection Fire Protection System for transformers. Fire extinguishers available in control room, Administration block and the yard.

• The substation has 2 transformers and several SF6 circuit breakers. The substation is PCB free.

• The substation is fenced and has warning signs to prevent the general public from being exposed to any risk of electrocution.

• No workplace related air, water, noise measurements are made during operations.

• The substation needs improvements in the following area: the substation needs the yard cleanliness, oil storage lined facility, SF6 cylinder storage areas and appropriate waste handling and disposal practices.

• Complete health and safety related complete first aid kit boxes, with proper PPRE for supervisors and works at operational sites, proper number of fire extinguishers and fire buckets are required.

15. Kamuthi substation: Audit findings and the required remedial actions are as follows:

• The substation is earthed. Safe touch and step voltages are maintained at all accessible locations. The substation has Auto Hydrogen Gas Spray System for transformer protection. Fire extinguishers and Sand buckets available in yard.

• The substation has 5 nos. 400/230 kV transformers, 230/110 kV transformers and SF6/oil circuit breakers, but none of these use PCB. The substation is PCB free.



• The substation needs improvements in the following area: the substation needs a designated oil storage lined area, SF6 cylinder storage areas which are currently stored in unlined unearmarked areas.


16. Vijayapuri substation: Audit findings and the required remedial actions are as follows:

• The substation is earthed. Safe touch and step voltages are maintained at all accessible locations. The substation has 12 firefighting equipment in working condition.

• The substation has 2 nos. 110/11 kV transformers and 2 nos. SF6 oil circuit breakers. The substation is PCB free.



• The substation needs improvements in the following area: the substation needs the yard cleanliness, oil storage lined facility, SF6 cylinder storage areas and appropriate waste handling and disposal practices.


A5.D Summary of Non Compliances identified during Due Diligence No. Issues Non-compliance with SPS 2009 guidelines

A Kayathar

1 H&S hazard Broken slabs in yard. Debris strewn across the yard is a trip hazard

2 Oil leaks from drums Drums appear unlabelled and oil dripping from drums

No. Issues Non-compliance with SPS 2009 guidelines

contaminating the land area.

3 Handling of Hazardous Materials Storage areas for SF6 gas cylinders and lined facility for transformer oil, and non-hazardous material needs to be improved especially in storage arrangement and prevention of spillage. 110% bunded area, impermeable surface etc. required

4 Waste mismanagement at yard Storage of empty transformer oil drums in yard. Debris is strewn across yard.

B Kamuthi

1 Health and Safety Hazard For all sites suggest H&S needs improvement based on content of First Aid box in Control Room, morefire bucket etc. No proper PPE worn by staff at site.

2 Solid Waste Management in Station Substation facilities should designate special areas/ points for solid waste collection and collect all unwanted scraps for a safe disposal.

3 Material Management/stores Insufficent storage facilities for SF6 gas cylinders

4 Handling of Hazardous Materials Lined facility for transformer oil, and non-hazardous material requried especially in storage arrangement and prevention of spillage. 110% bunded area, impermeable surface etc. required

C Vijayapuri

1 Safety from theft and loss at site Site seems easily accessible by the public with low fence

2 Health and Safety of staff Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPEs) not worn by staff at site

3 Unsafe storage of material Storage of hazardous material- handling of transformer oil at site without 110% bunded area. Stores at substation not properly managed

Public Concern 17. There are no public concerns regarding the substations as the substations are located a safe

distance away from settlements. Infact, during consultations by the survey teams near the substation area, the local people said that though they area not aware of the the proposed line project connecting the substations, they want work/job opportunity in the project and they were ready to support the project without any objection.

F. Corrective Action Plan with Time frame 18. The above review demonstrates that corrective action is required to ensure that adverse impacts

noticed of activities during construction, access to land, working conditions and amenities, health and safety. The regulatory nature of all national laws need to be adhered during implementation of the project activities and internal monitoring to make the project implementation compliant with the agreed policy in the IEE/EMP is required.

19. TANTRANSCO is required to review the Existing Facilities Audit Report and undertake the

corrective action plan, including specific actions, budget responsible agencies/persons and within the required deadline for each action as shown in Table A5.E.

Table A5.E: Final Corrective Action Plan Proposed Sno

Issue Corrective Action By whom By when

1 Improvement of waste management facilities at the substation.

• No proper solid waste management

• Scrap scattered at sites

• Collect waste and wastewater.

• Barricading scrap store and substation area

TANTRANSCO

Immediately

2 Health and Safety of Staff Staff to use personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

PPE to be provided to the staff. Staff and Contractor

Immediate

Sno

Issue Corrective Action By whom By when

3 UnStorage of SF6 cylinders Hazardous SF6 cylinder lying scattered in yards.

Prepare a storage area for SF6 cylinders.

TANTRANSCO

Immediately

4 Unsafe storage of material Hazardous Transformer oil stored haphazardly with any bunding to prevent leakage to ground.

Prepare a bunded area for storage of transformer oil. Remedy the leakage into the ground.

TANTRANSCO

Immediately

5 Theft Issue : Boundary wall Only barbed wire around facility.

Secure a walled boundary for the substation project.

TANTRANSCO

Immediately

6 Health and Safety Equipment H&S equipment such as incomplete first aid box, lesser quantities of fire buckets, fire extinguisher

TANTRANSCO to ensure complete kits, fire safety as well as fire alarms systems should be available at sites

TANTRANSCO

Immediately

G. Budget 20. The full cost of implementation of the above CAP will be borne by TANTRANSCO. Table A5.F: Budget for Corrective Action Plan Issue Costs

1 Improvement of waste management facilities at the substation. No proper solid waste management, Scrap scattered at sites

Costs to be borne by TANTRANSCO for development of area for storage of waste . Under TANTRASCO’s operational procedures for substations and lines lines

2 Health and Safety of Staff Staff to use personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

Costs to be borne by TANTRANSCO. Under TANTRASCO’s operational procedures for substations and lines

3 UnStorage of SF6 cylinders Hazardous SF6 cylinder lying scattered in yards.

Constuction of bounded storage area to be borne by TANTRANSCO. Under TANTRASCO’s operational procedures for substations and lines.

4 Unsafe storage of material Hazardous Transformer oil stored haphazardly with any bunding to prevent leakage to ground.

Constuction of bunded area to be borne by TANTRANSCO. Under TANTRASCO’s operational procedures for substations and lines

5 Theft Issue : Boundary wall Only barbed wire around facility.

Costs to be borne by TANTRANSCO. Under TANTRASCO’s operational procedures for substations and lines.

6 Health and Safety Equipment H&S equipment such as incomplete first aid box, lesser quantities of fire buckets, fire extinguisher etc.

Costs to be borne by TANTRANSCO. Under TANTRASCO’s operational procedures for substations and lines

Annexure 6: Standards, Baseline Environment Monitoring for Air, Water, Noise and Soil Sampling for Subprojects

A6.1 GoI Standards Water Quality Protocols (Central Pollution Control Board, GOI)

Table 3: Drinking Water standards

Parameter Standard Drinking Water Specification as per IS –10500:1991 as amendment up to 3 July 2010

Protocol (Test Method)

Desirable Limit Permissible Limit in absence of alternate source

Essential Characteristics Physical Parameter

Color, Hazen Units 5 25 IS: 3025 Part 4 - 1983

Odor Unobjectionable - IS: 3025 Part 5 - 1983

Taste Agreeable - IS: 3025 Part 7,8 -1984

Turbidity, NTU 5 10 IS: 3025 Part 10 - 1984

pH 6.5 – 8.5 - IS: 3025 Part 11 - 1984

Essential Characteristics-Chemical Parameters

Total Hardness as CaCO3 300 Mg / L 600 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 21 - 1983

Iron as Fe 0.3 Mg / L 1.0 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 53 - 2003

Chloride as Cl 250 Mg / L 1000 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 32 - 1988

Residual Free Chlorine 0.2 Mg / L - IS: 3025 Part 26 - 1986

Desirable Characteristics-Chemical Parameters

Dissolved Solids 500 Mg / L 2000 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 16 - 1984

Calcium as Ca 75 Mg / L 200 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 40 - 1991

Magnesium as Mg 30 Mg / L 100 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 46 - 1994

Copper as Cu 0.05 Mg / L 1.5 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 42 - 1992

Manganese as Mn 0.1 Mg / L 0.3 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 59 - 2006

Sulphate as SO4 200 Mg / L 400 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 24 - 1986

Nitrate as NO3 45 Mg / L No relaxation IS: 3025 Part 34 - 1988

Fluoride as F 1.0 Mg / L 1.5 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 60 - 2008

Phenolic Compounds as C6H5OH

0.001 Mg / L 0.002 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 43 - 1991

Mercury as Hg 0.001 Mg / L No relaxation IS: 3025 Part 48 - 1994

Cadmium as Cd 0.01 Mg / L No relaxation IS: 3025 Part 41 - 1992

Selenium as Se 0.01 Mg / L No relaxation IS: 3025 Part 56 - 2003

Arsenic as As 0.05 Mg / L No relaxation IS: 3025 Part 37 - 1998

Cyanide as CN 0.05 Mg / L No relaxation IS: 3025 Part 27 - 1986

Lead as Pb 0.05 Mg / L No relaxation IS: 3025 Part 47 - 1994

Zinc as Zn 5 Mg / L 15 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 49 - 1994

Anionic Detergents as MBAS

0.2 Mg / L 1.0 Mg / L APHA 5540 C

Chromium as Cr+6 0.05 Mg / L No relaxation IS: 3025 Part 52 - 2003

Mineral Oil 0.01 Mg / L 0.03 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 39 - 1991

Alkalinity 200 Mg / L 600 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 23 - 1986

Aluminium as Al 0.03 Mg / L 0.2 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 55 - 2003

Boron as B 1 Mg / L 5 Mg / L IS: 3025 Part 57 - 2005

Bacteriological Characteristics

Coliform Organisms 10 CFU 10 CFU IS: 1622 - 1981

E. Coli Absent Absent IS: 1622 - 1981

Table 4: Surface water quality criteria for different uses (specified by CPCB, 1979 and the Bureau of Indian Standards, 1982)

S. No

Water quality parameter

Characteristic of water body

A * B * C * D * E *

1 Dissolved Oxygen (DO) mg/l (minimum)

6 5 4 4 3

2 Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), mg/l (max)

2 3 3 - -

3 Total Coliform organisms ** MPN/100ml (max)

50 ** 500 500 - -

4 Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) mg/l (max)

500 - 1500 - 2100

5 Chlorides (as Cl-) mg/l (max) 250 - 600 - 600

6 Colour, Hazen units (max) - 10 300 300 -

7 Sodium Absorption Ratio (max) - - - - 20

8 Boron (as B), mg/l (max) - - - - -

9 Sulphates (as SO4)-2, mg/l (max)

400 - 400 - 1000

10 Nitrates (as NO3)- mg/l (max) 20 - 50 - -

11 Free Ammonia (as NH3) mg/l(max)

- - - 1.2 -

12 Conductivity at 25oC micro mhos/cm (max)

- - - 1000 2500

13 pH value 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 6.0-8.5

14 Arsenic (as As), mg/l (max) 0.05 0.2 0.2 - -

15 Iron (as Fe), mg/l (max) 0.3 - - 0.5 -

16 Fluoride (as F), mg/l (max) 1.5 1.5 1.5 - -

17 Lead (as Pb), mg/l (max) 0.1 - 0.1 - -

Note: * Classes of water use: A Drinking water source without conventional treatment but after disinfection B Out door bathing (organised) C Drinking water source with conventional treatment followed by disinfection. D Propagation of wild life, fisheries. E Irrigation, industrial cooling, controlled waste disposal. ** If the coliform is found to be more than the prescribed tolerance limits, the criteria for coliforms shall be satisfied if not more than 20 percent of samples show more than the tolerance limits specified and not more than 5 percent of samples show values more than 4 times the tolerance limits. There should be no visible discharge of domestic and industrial waste into class “A” waters. In case of classes “B” and “C” the discharge shall be so regulated/ treated as to ensure maintenance of the stream standards.

Table 5: Ambient Air Quality Standards in respect of Noise

Area Code Category of Area/Zone Limits in dB(A) Leq * Day Time Night Time

(A) Industrial area 75 70 (B) Commercial area 65 55 (C) Residential area 55 45 (D) Silence Zone 50 40

Note 1. Day time shall mean from 6.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. 2. Night time shall mean from 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m. 3. Silence zone is defined as an area comprising not less than 100 metres around hospitals,

educational institutions and courts. The silence zones are zones which are declared as such by the competent authority.

4. Mixed categories of areas may be declared as one of the four above mentioned categories by the competent authority.

*dB(A) Leq denotes the time weighted average of the level of sound in decibels on scale A which is relatable to human hearing. A "decibel" is a unit in which noise is measured. "A", in dB(A) Leq, denotes the frequency weighting in the measurement of noise and corresponds to frequency response characteristics of the human ear. Leq: It is an energy mean of the noise level, over a specified period. Source: Ministry of Environment and Forests Notification, New Delhi, the 14 February 2000 S.O. 123(E)

Table 6: Air Quality Standards

A6.2: IFC/World Bank EHS Guidelines

Table 7: WHO Ambient Air Quality Guidelines

7 World Health Organization (WHO). Air Quality Guidelines Global Update, 2005. PM 24-hour value is the 99th percentile. 8 Interim targets are provided in recognition of the need for a staged approach to achieving the recommended guidelines.

Table 8: Noise-Level Guidelines

54 Guidelines values are for noise levels measured out of doors. Source: Guidelines for Community Noise, World Health Organization (WHO), 1999. 55 For acceptable indoor noise levels for residential, institutional, and educational settings refer to WHO (1999).

Table 9: Sanitary waste discharge guidelines

Table 10: WHO Guidelines For Drinking Water WHO produces international norms on water quality and human health in the form of guidelines that are used as the basis for regulation and standard setting, in developing and developed countries worldwide. The quality of drinking water is a powerful environmental determinant of health. Assurance of drinking water safety is a foundation for the prevention and control of waterborne diseases. The guidelines developed by WHO are prepared through a vast global consultative process involving WHO member states (India is the member state), national authorities and international agencies, in consultation with the WHO Expert Advisory Panel.

Parameters Standard limits as per WHO guidelines (mg/L)

Acrylamide 0.0005

Alachor 0.02

Aldicarb 0.01

Aldrin and Dieldrin 0.00003


Ammonia 1.5

Antimony 0.02

Arsenic 0.01

Atrazine 0.002

Barium 0.7

Benzene 0.01

Benzo(?)pyrene 0.0007

Boron 0.5

Bromate 0.01

Bromodichloromethane (BDCM) 0.06

Bromoform 0.1

Cadmium 0.003

Carbofuran 0.007

Carbon tetrachloride 0.004

Chlorate 0.7

Chlordane 0.0002

Chloramines 0.5 - 1.5

Chloride 200 - 300

Chlorine 5

Chlorite 0.7

Chloroform 0.3

Chlorotoluron 0.03

Chlorpyrifos 0.03

Chromium 0.05

Colour in drinking water No visible colour

Copper 2.0

Cyanazine 0.0006

Cyanide 0.07

1,2-Dichlorobenzene 1.0

1,4-Dichlorobenzene 0.3

1,2-Dichloroethane 0.03

Dichloromethane 0.02

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid 0.03

DDT and metabolites 0.001

Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate 0.008

1,2-Dichloroethylene 0.05

1,2-Dichloropropane 0.04

Dimethonate 0.006

1,4-Dioxane 0.05

Dissolved oxygen No health-based guideline value is recommended

Edetic acid (EDTA) 0.6

Endrin 0.0006

Epichlorohydrin 0.0004

Ethylbenzene 0.3

Fenoprop 0.009

Fluoride 1.5

Hexachlorobutadiene 0.0006

Iron No health-based guideline value is proposed

Isoproturon 0.009

Lead 0.01

Lindane 0.002

Manganese 0.4


Mercury 0.006

Methoxychlor 0.02

Metolachlor 0.01

Microcystin-LR 0.001

Molinate 0.006

Molybdenum 0.07

Monochloroacetate 0.02

N-Nitrosodimethylamine 0.0001

Nickel 0.07

Nitrate 50

Nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) 0.2

Nitrite 3

Pendimethalin 0.02

Pentachlorophenol 0.009

Permethrin 0.3

pH No health-based guideline value is proposed

Pyriproxyfen 0.3

Selenium 0.01

Simazine 0.002

Sulphate No health-based guideline value has been derived

Styrene 0.02

Terbuthylazine 0.007

Tetrachloroethylene 0.04

Toluene 0.7

Total dissolved solids (TDS) No health-based guideline value is proposed

Trichloroacetate 0.2

Trichloroethylene 0.02

2,4,6,-Trichlorophenol 0.2

Trifluralin 0.02

Trutuim 10000 Bq/L

Uranium 0.015

Vinyl chloride 0.0003

Xylenes-total 0.5

Zinc No health-based guideline value is proposed

Annexure 7: National Parks and Sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu State Source: Wildlife Conservation and Management in Tamil Nadu- A Historical Perspective by Tamil Nadu Forest Department 2016

Biodiversity conservation in Tamil Nadu State has a long history with the 15 Wildlife Sanctuaries, 5 National Parks, 4 Tiger Reserves, 15 Bird Sanctuaries and two Conservation Reserves as on date. The various protected areas notified are presented in this annexure. 1. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve 1. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is located between 11° 31' 54.9” and 11° 42' 18.5” North latitudes and between 76° 21'28.9” and 76° 45' 21.5” East longitudes. The reserve is situated in Gudalur, Udhagai and Pandalur Taluks of the Nilgiris District, Tamil Nadu. Considering its importance as a key Tiger Conservation Unit, the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park (321 km2) was upgraded as Mudumalai Tiger Reserve during 2007. 2. The Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary was formed back during 1940 in G.O.Ms.No.193, development department, dated: 27.01.1940. The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, which is located at the tri- junction of three states, viz, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu plays a unique role by forming part of the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, which was the first Biosphere Reserve in India, declared during 1986. It provides a significant corridor for the wildlife, enabling the movement of animals from Western Ghats to Eastern Ghats and vice versa. It is the best breeding ground for the tigers and also allows for the maintenance of genetic diversity of various other fauna and flora. 3. The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve harbors excellent habitat diversity for several species of rare, endangered and endemic Flora and Fauna. This reserve is one of the richest wildlife areas in India, being particularly noted for its diverse assemblage, it acts as a source for populating the northern and eastern parts of the Western Ghats landscape. This tiger population is capable of existing at reasonably high density due to the deciduous nature of the forest tract. 4. The heritage of these rich faunal, floral assemblages, diverse habitats, terrain, climate, the location of the sanctuary along with the tribal communities gives an important scientific, educational and recreational value for Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Mudumalai remains one of the most popular and largely visited sanctuaries of the country, where more than a lakh tourists visit every year. The predominantly deciduous vegetation interspersed with vayals in the tourism area provide greater visibility during the dry months followed by abundant herbaceous and grass growth in the pre-monsoon periods offering scope for best wildlife sightings. 2. Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve 5. The Kalakkad-Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR) is the 17th and Southern most Tiger Reserve in India and the one of the four Tiger Reserves in Tamil Nadu. As per the provisions of section 38 V Government of Tamil Nadu had issued a notification declaring this area as Tiger Reserve vide G.O.Ms.No.28, Environment and Forests Department Dated: 5.1.1989. 6. The core area has already been declared vide Government of Tamil Nadu, Environment and Forests Department G.O.Ms.No.145 dated 28.12.07 and published in the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette dated 31.12.2007. KMTR is located between 77o 10‟E and 77o 35‟ E longitudes and between 8o 25‟N and 8o 53‟N latitudes. The KMTR is spread over an area of 895 sq.km. encompassing portion of Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari Districts of Tamil Nadu. 7. Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve includes two adjacent sanctuaries namely Kalakkad Sanctuary (1976) and Mundanthurai Sanctuary (1962) in Tirunelveli District. It is also includes part of Kilamalai and Veerapuli Reserved Forests of Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary (2002). All these three conservation Units are the unified administration of KMTR. KMTR also includes non-sanctuary RFs to the extent of 2705.69 ha. Proposal has been sent to the District Collector for declaration this area

as sanctuary. 8. KMTR is the source of as many as fourteen rivers and is rightly known as the River Sanctuary of Tamil Nadu. The perennial river Tambiraparani, the life line of Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Kanyakumari is sustained by the conservation of Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. 9. KMTR forming part of the Southern Western Ghats includes part of the Agasthiyarmalai Biosphere Reserve which is recognized as one of the five important centers of Plant species diversity in India and as one of the 24 Micro centers of endemism in India. 10. As many as 448 endemic species of angiosperms have been identified from this region. The major endemic species of the reserve include: Hopea utilis, Gluta travancorica, Humboldtia unijuga (var. unijuga and trijuga) Eugenia singampattiana, Popowia beddomeana, Palaquium bourdilloni, Psychotria beddomei, Symplocos marcrocarpa, and S. macrophylla to name a few. 79 genera and 161 species of ferns have been reported from this reserve. 11. KMTR bears a large contiguous tract of about 400 sq.kms of wet evergreen forests located away from the equatorial region. Besides a rich array of flora and fauna, it harbors a large number of threatened species including the Lion Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus), a flagship species of rainforests in the Western Ghats. 12. Richest from the faunal point of view: This tiger reserve also supports a large number of mammalian fauna. All the 5 primates of Peninsular India are found in KMTR. All the 14 endemic mammals of Western Ghats are found in KMTR. There are 19 endemic birds formed in Western Ghats are of Tamil Nadu and out of this, 15 are found in KMTR. The threatened species include the Lion Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus), Nilgiri Langur (Seminopethicus johnii), Nilgiri Marten (Martes gwatkinsi sub sp.,), Brown Palm Civet (Paradoxurus jerdoni), and Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius). Fifteen bird species that are endemic to Western Ghats are reported from KMTR viz., Nilgiri Pipit (Anthus nilghiriensis), Travancore White Breasted Laughing Thrush (Garrulax jerdoni), Grey Headed Bulbul (Pycnonotus priocephalus), Blue Winged Parakeet (Psittacula columboides), Nilgiri Wood Pigeon (Columba elphinstonii), Rufous Babbler (Turdoides subrufus), Malabar Grey Hombill (Tockus griseus) and Black and Rufous Flycatcher (Muscicapa nigrorufa). The reserve has a very diverse fish fauna including 32 species (Annamalai 2004). Butterfly fauna with rare species such as Spot Puffin (Appias lalage). Herpetofaunal assemblage is high with many endemic and rare species such as Dasia haliana, Calotes andamanensis and the Black Microhylid Frog, Melanobatrachus indicus. 13. KMTR houses quite a number of religious places like Nambikoil in Thirukurungudi Range, Karumandiamman and Pattarayan koils in Kalakkad Range, Amman koil in Ambasamudram Range, Agasthiar and Sorimuthuayyanar Koil in Papanasam Range, Siva temple in Mundanthurai Range, Gorakanathar Temple and Dhangha in Kadayam Range. Among these, two main places of religious importance viz, Sorimuthuayyanar Koil on the Mundanthurai plateau, and Nambi Kovil in the Thirukurungudi foothills. These places are visited by a large number of pilgrims that has already impinged on the biological values of the reserve. 14. Further Agasthiyarmalai (1868 M above msl), named after the Sage Agasthiyar, who is a legendary father of Tamil language and literature, is considered to be the sacred mountain and thousands of pilgrims used to visit during the full moon day of Tamil month Chithirai. River Tambiraparani originates from here. Agasthiyar falls, Manimuthar falls, Karaiyar Dam, Banathritham falls, Servalar Dam, Mundanthurai plateau and the Kalakkad Thalayani river attract large number of National and International tourists. 3. Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary 15. Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Vedaranyam Taluk of Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu. It is located 60 kilometres south of Nagapattinam and lies where the Bay of Bengal meets the Palk Strait. The sanctuary was created in 1967 as per G.O.Ms.No.1821, Agriculture, 13th June 1967.

16. The sanctuary is home to the largest population (about 1000) of the Blackbuck in Southern India and second Largest population of India as a whole. It harbors the single largest stretch of the unique dry-evergreen forest in the country. With about 154 species of medicinal plants in the dry-evergreen forest, the sanctuary is a rich genepool of dry-tropical species. Two species of insectivorous plants viz., Drocera indica and Drocera burmani are also found in the sanctuary. 17. The sanctuary and its surrounding wetlands are important wintering grounds for water birds from the North. The sanctuary coast has been a regular nesting site of the endangered Olive Ridley turtle. Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary Block (A) (Muthupet) notified vide G.O(Ms.) No.59, Environment and Forests (FR.5) department dated 26.04.2013 Statement of significance. 18. The recently notified Block (A) is a sanctuary mangrove wetland, is located in the southern most end of the Cauvery delta it occupies and area of approximately 12,000 ha, including 1700 ha. a lagoon (Muthupet). 4. Anamalai Tiger Reserve 19. Anamalai Tiger Reserve is carved out of the Tamil Nadu portion of the Anamalais. It lies South of the Palakkad gap in the Southern Western Ghats. Geographically it is located between the longitudes 76 49.3‟ and 77 21.4‟E and latitudes 10 13.2‟ and 10 33.3' N. The tiger Reserve falls in four revenue taluks namely; Pollachi, Valparai in Coimbatore district and Udumalpet in Tiruppur District and Kodaikanal taluk in Dindigul district in the State of Tamil Nadu. 20. The Anamalai Tiger Reserve has a long management history since 1848. The erstwhile Coimbatore South Forest division, a model Forest Division for the Madras State was declared as Wildlife Sanctuary in 1976 and named “Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary” vide G.O.Ms.No.288 Forests and Fisheries dated 14.10.1976. Consequently it was renamed “Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary” in 1987. The total extent of the notified protected area is 958 sq km. Karianshola (Tamil Nadupart), Grass Hills and Manjampatti have been declared as National Parks and have been protected as the “Indira Gandhi National Park” (108 sq km). 21. Considering its importance as a key Tiger Conservation Unit, being part of a landscape that holds promise for future survival of Tiger, the Government of India accorded in principle approval for declaration of “Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park” vide IGF and Director, Project Tiger GOI, Ministry of Environment and Forests, New Delhi, Letter No.3-1/03PT Dated 5.8.2006. The Government of Tamil Nadu has notified entire Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park as Tiger Reserve vide Government of Tamil Nadu, Environment and Forest (FR V Department) G.O.Ms.No.49 dated 02.04.2007. The entire 958 Sq. km area of Anamalais has been notified as “Critical Wildlife habitat or Core of Tiger Reserve” videG.O.Ms.No.145, Environment and Forests (FR. 5) Dept. dated 28.12.2007 and notified in Tamil Nadu Government Gazette No. 363 dated December 31, 2007. The post Wildlife Warden, Pollachi was upgraded to the level of Conservator of Forests. This post was subsequently upgraded to the level of Chief Conservator of Forests w.e.f. 30.07.2010. 22. The Anamalai Tiger Reserve possesses diverse fauna and flora, well representative of the region. The Tiger Reserve supports diverse habitat type viz. wet evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests, moist deciduous, dry deciduous, dry thorn and shola forests. Other unique habitats like montane grasslands, savannah and marshy grasslands are also present. 23. A revision of flora of the Anaimalais done by Thiru. V. Ganesan, I.F.S., with reference to the Flora of Tamil Nadu revealed that the Tiger Reserve supports around 2500 species of Angiosperms. From field explorations conducted in the Tiger Reserve, certain interesting groups of plants which have rich diversity are Balsams, Crotalarias, Orchids and Kurinchi. There is rich diversity of wild genetic resources of crop plants like Mango, Jack, Banana, Ginger, Turmeric, Pepper, Cardamom, Solaipuli, Nutmeg, Cinnamom, Amla, Jasmine, Capparis, Nervilia, Bittergourd, Snakegourd, Ivygourd Drumstick, Yams, Elephant foot yam, Malabar tamarind, Rice, Strawberry, Rose, Raspberry, Wild guava, Nilgiri lily, Carrisa, Ber. Elaeocarpus, Elaegnus etc.

24. Endemism of the vegetation is very rich in the tiger reserve. There is a long list of red, endangered and threatened species of plants (≥ 39) distributed and well protected in the Tiger Reserve, Gymnosperms like Podocarpus wallichiana, Cycas circinalis, Gnetum ula are distributed in fairly good population. Insectivorous plants like Drosera are found distributed in grass land ecosystem. Ficus, one of the keystone species responsible for supporting important avifauna like hornbills is well represented with over 12 species. The staple food source of Lion Tailed Macaque, the Cullenia exarillata is represented by two varieties in the Tiger Reserve. Interesting plant groups like Ceropegias and Hoya are also represented well. There is a rich diversity of medicinal plant wealth and Kariyan shola is protected as one of the Medicinal Plants Conservation Area (MPCA) in the country. Highly threatened medicinal plants like Utleria salicifolia, Decalepis hamiltonii are well represented in the tiger reserve. 25. The diversity of bamboos, canes, reeds, palms is also unique and interesting. Rich diversity of ferns including tree ferns with endemic elements are noticed. Bryophytes, Thallophytes diversity is also very high due to moist evergreen, shola, and grassland habitats. There is rich diversity of fungi both edible and non-edible categories. 26. The Tiger Reserve supports healthy population of several endangered wild animals (Fishes ≥ 70 species, Amphibians ≥ 70 species, Reptiles ≥ 120 species, Birds ≥ 300 species, Mammals ≥ 80 species. The presence of more than 20 tigers underscores the healthiness of this eco system. Most of the herbivores species of the Western Ghats viz. Asian elephant, Sambar, Spotted deer Barking deer, Mouse deer are well represented. Anamalais supports one of the highest densities of Gaur population in Southern India. A report of white (albino) variety of Gaur is made from Manjampatti area. The only South Indian wild goat, and the State animal of Tamil Nadu, the Nilgiri Tahr is found in sizeable number (600+) on the high altitude rocky hills and grass lands in the Tiger Reserve. It is commonly seen at the 9th hairpin bend rocky portions on the Pollachi – Valparai ghat road. Grass Hills National Park which is contiguous with Eravikulam National Park is supporting the largest Nilgiris Tahr population in the world. A healthy population of more than 600 Lion Tailed Macaque found in evergreen fragments of the Tiger Reserve supports all the five primate species found in Tamil Nadu viz. Lion Tailed Macaque, Nilgiri langur, Common langur, Bonnet macaque and Slender loris. Interesting two giant squirrels both Malabar and the Grizzled are found in healthy numbers in the Tiger Reserve, so also two flying squirrels. 27. Other important wild animals like Wild pig, Sloth bear are also found in large numbers. Canids like Jackal, Wild dog, Indian fox, Felids other than Tiger, viz. Leopard, Jungle cat, Leopard cat, Rusty spotted cat, Fishing cat, Mustelids (Otters) like Smooth coated otter, Small clawed otter, Marten (Nilgiri marten), Viverrid civets – (Small Indian civet) Palm civet – (Common palm civet, Brown palm civet), Herpestids - Mongoose viz. Grey mongoose, Ruddy mongoose, Brown mongoose, Stripe-necked mongoose, Edentates like Indian pangolin, Lagomorph like Indian Hare and Insectivores like House shrew, Day‟s shrew, Kelaart's long clawed shrew, Hedge hog (Madras hedge hog), rodents like Porcupine, Giant squirrels (2), Striped squirrels (Three striped, Dusky striped, Layard's striped), Flying Squirrels (2), several Rats, Mice including Malabar Spiny Dormouse, Tree Shrew (Madras), Bats awaiting to be documented are available in Anamalais. 28. Anamalais support rich diversity of reptiles. Interestingly all the fresh water turtles and tortoises in the South like Tranvancore tortoise, Cochin forest cane turtle, Indian flap shell turtle, Indian Black turtle, Leith‟s soft shell turtle are distributed. Uropeltid snakes are interesting. Unique species of lizard, Salea anamalayana, a Western Ghats endemic is also found in these hills. Avifaunal diversity is amazing with more than 260 species of birds documented representing 16 of the 17 endemic species in the Western Ghats. Amphibian diversity is very unique where new records like Rhacophorus pseudo malabaricus, Naisikabatrachus sahyadrensis are found in Anamalais. Caecilians diversity is very interesting. Fish faunal diversity hitherto was unknown. A recent study made has recorded six new species.

29. Interesting invertebrates like butterflies and moths, mites and spiders, beetles and weevils, bugs, etc. are also well represented in the Tiger Reserve. 30. Anamalais is worth to be designated as „Anthropological Reserve‟ as it supports 6 indigenous people viz. Malasar, Malai malasars, Kadars, Eravallars, Pulayars and Muduvars. This is very unique in the entire Tamil Naduand probably the only Protected Area with diverse groups of indigenous people. These indigenous people protect several traditional varieties of agricultural crops like Rice, Ragi, Tenai, Grain amaranth etc. 31. It has interesting scenic spots like Waterfalls, Nallamudi Pooncholai, Punganodai view point, Chinnakallar waterfalls, Monkey falls etc. and important peaks like Pandaravarai, Koochimalai, Perumkundru, Vellimudi, Thanakamalai etc. 32. The Anamalai Tiger Reserve is dotted with culturally and historically important areas. Many temples of local and historical importance are found inside the Tiger Reserve as enclosures. In the eastern part of the Anamalai Tiger Reserve falling in Udumalpet, Amaravathy ranges, historic sites like ruins of forts of Vijaynagar kings, Pandavar kuzhis are seen. 5. Guindy National Park 33. Guindy National Park is situated in Mambalam-Guindy Taluk of Chennai District in south-west corner of Chennai City. The area was taken over for management by Forest Department in the year 1958. Prior to 1958 the area was under the control of Raj Bhavan. Considering the ecological, faunal, floral geomorphological and zoological importance an area of 270.57 ha of the Guindy Park Reserved Forest, was declared as National Park by the Government of Tamil Nadu in G.O.Ms.No.773, Forest and Fisheries dated 4.9.1978. 34. The presence of dry evergreen forests and endangered Blackbuck, makes the Park more significant. 6. Mukurthi National Park 35. Mukurthi Park is located in the Nilgiri District of Tamil Nadu. It lies between latitude 11°.10‟ to 11°.22‟ North and longitudes 76°.26‟ to 76°.34‟ East. 36. Mukurthi was first declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in the year 1982. Subsequently its status was enhanced to a National Park in 1990). Final notification of Mukurthi National Park as a National Park was issued in 2001. At present the extent of the National Park is 78.46 sq.km. The park holds the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (Hemitragous hylocrius), population, the State animal of Tamil Naduand endemic to Western Ghats. 7. Vallanadu Black Buck Sanctuary 37. The Vallanadu area was declared as Sanctuary as per G.O.Ms.No.1028 Forest & Fisheries Department dated 28.09.1987. 38. This Sanctuary is located in Vallanadu village of Srivaikundam Taluk of Thoothukudi in district in Tamil Nadu on Tirunelveli- Thoothukudi road at a distance of 16 kilometers from Tirunelveli town. Thoothukudi district is situated in the extreme southeastern corner of Tamil Nadu. Vallanadu Reserved Forests is the southernmost location where Blackbuck is naturally available, which speaks for itself the need for their conservation. 8. Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park and Biosphere Reserve 39. The Gulf of Mannar, the first Marine Biosphere Reserve in the South and South East Asia, running down south from Rameswaram to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, India is situated between Longitudes 78008‟E to 79030‟E and along Latitudes from 8035‟N to 9025‟N with a total area of 10,500 Km2. This marine Biosphere Reserve encompasses a chain of 19 islands and adjoining coral reefs off the coasts of the Ramanathapuram and the Tuticorin districts forming the core zone; the

Marine National Park. The surrounding seascape of the Marine National Park and a 10 km strip of the coastal landscape covering a total area 10,500 sq. km., in the Ramanathapuram, Tuticorin, Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari Districts forms the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. 40. The Gulf of Mannar has drawn attention of conservationists even before the initiation of the Man and Biosphere (MAB) program by the UNESCO in 1971. With its rich biodiversity of 3600 Species of various flora and fauna part of this Gulf of Mannar has been declared as a Marine National Park in 1986 by the Government of Tamil Nadu and later as the first Marine Biosphere Reserve of India in 1989 by the Government of India. 41. While the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park (GOMNP) is protected and managed by the Wildlife Wing of the Tamil Nadu State Forest Department, the activities in the GOMBR is facilitated, supported and managed by the multi-agency GOMBRT, wherein besides the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, Environment, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Rural Development and other government departments of Tamil Nadu, national and local NGOs, CBOs and academic institutions are also involved. The GOMBR Trust is chaired by the Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu and its functional Chief Executive is a Chief Conservator of Forests of the Tamil Nadu Government. The GEF-UNDP project is operational upto 2008. 9. Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary 42. The Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the Western Ghats falling in the revenue districts of Virudhunagar and Madurai between North latitudes 90 23‟ and 90 48‟ and East and 770 26‟ 770 46‟. 43. The area was declared as a sanctuary in G.O.Ms.No.399, Environment and Forests (FR.II) dated. 26-12-1992 consisting the Reserved Forests of erstwhile Kamarajar Forest Division and Saptur R.F of Madurai Forest Division with the sanctuary headquarters at Srivilliputhur. 44. It is an important landscape for elephant conservation programme in Periyar Tiger Reserve. Owing to its large contiguous forests and connectivity with adjoining Reserve Forest Divisions, this Division has wide varieties of endangered species such as Grizzled Squirrel, Elephant, Tiger, Leopard, Nilgiri tahr, Gaur, Lion Tailed Macaque and Hyena. The diversity of habitat has got an assemblage of several species of rare plants, invertebrates, fishes, amphibians, and reptiles. Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary has also got several species of endemic flora and fauna. The total extent of the sanctuary is 48891.91 ha. 45. It is one of the six potential habitats with viable population of Grizzled Squirrel in India. Grizzled Giant Squirrel identified as flagship species for this protected area. The area serves as catchments and assures continuous water supply to the Towns and Villages in the District and sustains the agricultural production. 10. Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary 46. Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary is the southern-most sanctuary of India and forms the part of Southern-most end of Southern Western Ghats, and also forms a part of the Agasthiyarmalai Biosphere Reserve. 47. In G.O.Ms.No.152 E& F Department dated: 16.7.2002 the Kanyakumari Forest division was declared as Wildlife Sanctuary. Administratively out of 45,777.57 ha area of Kanyakumari Forest Division, an area of 40239.55 ha is carved out from reserved forests of Kanyakumari Forest Division, is declared as Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary. The ecological significance of the Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary is of paramount importance as the forests play a vital role in sustaining the water security of the district. 48. The richness and diversity of the flora of this region are due to the variation in its elevation from sea level to about 1800 m, tropical climate, heavy rainfall and the mountainous configuration.

49. The dry deciduous forests of the Panagudi side of the Mahendragiri, the moist deciduous forests of the Asambu Hills and the wet evergreen forests of the Veerapuli and Kilamalai forests are a joy to behold with bamboos, canes, reeds, orchids, endemic palms like Bentinckia condapanna and grasslands abound. The peaks of Varayattumottai, Mahendragiri, Muthukuzhivayal, Upper Kodayar and waterfalls such as Olakkai aruvi, Kutharapanchan aruvi and Kalikesam enchant the unsuspecting tourists. 50. The area is a part of wildlife corridor with high biodiversity, and in addition to tigers, is home to the threatened species: Indian Bison, elephant, Indian Rock Python, Lion-tailed Macaque, Mouse deer, Nilgiri Tahr and Sambar deer. There are a few tribal villages in the sanctuary and adjoining reserve forests. In addition to large number of species of birds, arthropods and other invertebrates a variety of wildlife can be seen in the division. 11. Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve 51. Sathyamangalam Forest Division encompasses large contiguous Reserve Forests extending over 1455 sq km with diversity of vegetation types from dry thorn shrub to patches of semi-evergreen forests in the upper regions. The southern portion of the division covering an area of 524.34 sq km has been declared as Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary, vide G.O.Ms.No.122 dated 3.11.08 in the G.O.Ms.No.93, Environment and Forests (FR V) Department dated 11.08.2011, an area of 141,160.94 ha. was notified as Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary. Subsequently the above has been notified as Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve in the G.O.Ms.No.41, Environment and Forests (FR V) Department dated 15.03.2013. 52. The Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary is the meeting place of two distinct geographical regions of bio diversity landscape; Western Ghat and Eastern Ghat. It is an important landscape for elephant conservation programme in Nilgiris and Eastern Ghats. Owing to its large contiguous forests and connectivity with adjoining reserve forest divisions, this division has wide varieties of endangered species such as Elephant, Gaur, Blackbuck, Tiger, Leopard, White backed vulture and Hyena. The diversity of habitat has got an assemblage of several species of rare plants, invertebrates, fishes, amphibians, and reptiles. This sanctuary also harbors several species of wild relatives of cultivated plants including, Wild ginger, Turmeric, Solanum, and Mango that act as a gene pool for the cultivated plants. Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary has also got several species of endemic flora and fauna. 12. Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary 53. Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is carved out of Madurai and Theni Division forest areas in the Southern Western Ghats. Geographically it is located between the Longitudes 770 45' N and Latitudes 090 31' to 090 58' E. The territorial jurisdiction of the sanctuary falls in two taluks, Uthamapalayam and Periyakulam in Theni district and two taluks, Thirumangalam and usilampatty in Madurai District. 54. The areas included in the Sanctuary have a long management history. Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary was declared in 2009 vide G.O.(D)No.63, Environment and Forest (FR-V) Department dated26.06.2009. Total extent of the notified sanctuary is 269.10 Km2 (26910.815 Ha). 55. Megamalai Sanctuary falls in Western Ghats bio-geographic zone. A part of the sanctuary falls in Periyar Elephant Reserve. The biota of the region is highly diverse. Sanctuary is known for its rich diversity. It harbors large number of Endemic, endangered and vulnerable flora and fauna. 56. Sanctuary is a home for indigenous tribal group - Paliyars. With biological richness, the sanctuary offers excellent scope for scientific research on biological, anthropological, historical and cultural aspects as this area remains as one of the least studied protected areas in the country. 57. Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary provides important ecological services for Theni and Madurai region as it forms the catchment of Vaigai River, the life line of the region. Sanctuary also supports some irrigation cum hydroelectric Project like Periyar and Suruliar Hydro Electric Projects. The

agricultural and economic prosperity of the region thus depends heavily on the sanctuary. 58. Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary is thus very rich biologically with floral, faunal and anthropological uniqueness in the Western Ghats with Himalayan faunal associates like Nilgiri Tahr. Sanctuary qualifies as Elephant Reserve, Tiger Reserve, Anthropological reserve, Primate Sanctuary and Wild gene sanctuary. It plays vital role in the water security of the region as water sanctuary and enhances quality of life as very great oxygen sanctuary. Conservation of Megamalai is therefore very crucial for the physical, mental and spiritual well-being of humanity as a whole. 13. Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary 59. The Forests of Kodaikanal Wild Life Sanctuary falls between 770 16‟ and 770 45‟ of East longitude and 100 20‟ and 100 5‟ of North latitude. The Kodaikanal Wild life Sanctuary is spread over an area of 655.70 sq.km encompassing portion of Dindigul and Theni Districts of Tamil Nadu. 60. Kodaikanal Wild Life Sanctuary is formed in G.O.No.143, E&F Dept. Dated 20.9.2013. Major water source for two districts, Dindigul and Theni. 61. Owing to wide variations in the topographical geomorphological, edaphic and climatic features, the forests of Kodaikanal Wild Life Sanctuary consequently justify their wide variations in floristic composition. 62. This sanctuary also supports a large number of mammalian fauna (44 numbers). The threatened species include Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri Marten, Brown Palm Civet and Nilgiri Tahr. Ten bird species that are endemic to Western Ghats are reported from this sanctuary viz., Nilgiri Pipit, Grey Headed Bulbul, Blue Winged Parakeet, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Rufous Babbler and Black and Rufous Flycatcher. The reserve has a very diverse fish fauna including 8 species. Butterfly fauna with rare species such as Spot Puffin, Herpetofaunal assemblage is high with many endemic and rare species such as Dasia haliana, Calotes andamanensis and the Black Microhylid Frog, Melanobatrachus indicus. 63. Kodaikanal Wild Life Sanctuary offers excellent opportunities for practicing restoration ecology particularly shola. 14. Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary 64. The entire reserved forest areas to the extent of 3573.33 ha. of Tirunelveli Forest Division was declared as "Nellai wildlife Sanctuary" in G.O.Ms.No.12, Environment and Forests (FR.V) Department dated: 04.02.2015. 65. This forms part of the broader landscape of Kalakkadu Mundandurai Tiger Reserve, Tirunelveli as link between Kanyakumari Wildlife Sanctuary, Kalakkadu Mundandurai Tiger Reserve and Srivilliputhur Grizzled Giant Squirrel Sanctuary with compare floral and faunal diversity similar to the other adjoining areas. 15. Gangaikondan Wildlife Sanctuary 66. Tirunelveli Wildlife Preservation Association during the year 1976 took initiative to form 'Deer Park' on a leased forest land of 500 acres in Gangaikondan Village in Tirunelveli Division vide G.O.Ms.No.406, Forests and Fisheries Department dated: 11.05.1976. Recently the above park has been notified Gangaikondan Deer Sanctuary in G.O.Ms.No.150, Environment and Forests (FR.V) Department dated: 01.10.2013. Central Asian Flyway and Stop Over Sites in Tamil Nadu 67. Migrating birds cover long distances during their annual migration and how they navigate their flight path is still not fully understood. Birds seem to navigate by a combination of senses, position of sun and stars, setting of sun, earth‟s magnetic field, etc. Water birds generally follow the same route

year after year for migration owing to the presence of stop over points enroute which provide food supplies. The stop over sites where migrating birds refuel and rest for several hours to few days are very critical in the survival and success of migrating birds. 68. Sanctuaries which are lying on the migratory route of migrating birds act as stop over sites. Point Calimere and wetlands in Rameswaram and Kanyakumari are not only major stop over sites for water birds during their southward migration but also are wintering sites for portion of the migratory population. Point Calimere is the stop over site for passerine birds and Western Ghats are the major wintering sites. 69. The Central Asian Flyway is spread over more than 30 countries from the Arctic to Indian Ocean. Tamil Nadu is the last landmass in this flyway. The Flyway comprises several important migration routes of water birds, most of which extend from the northernmost breeding grounds in Russia (Siberia) to the southernmost non-breeding (wintering) grounds in West and South Asia, the Maldives and the British Indian Ocean Territory. Bird Migration Studies in Tamil Nadu 70. BNHS has conducted large scale bird ringing studies in Point Calimere, Gulf of Mannar, Kanyakumari, Pulicat, Kaliveli, Nilgiris, Palani hills and some other parts of southern Western Ghats and generated data on the distribution and movement of migratory birds all over Tamil Nadu.BNHS is undertaking ringing and colour flagging studies in Point Calimere and this can be extended to other wetlands of Tamil Nadu. Department staff could be trained on bird ringing and identification at Bird Migration Study Centre, Point Calimere. Bird Sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu 71. All the sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu including Point Calimere, Vedanthangal and Pulicat are significant for nesting of resident birds. Koonthankulam and Karaivetti sanctuaries support thousands of migratory ducks and geese as well. Sanctuaries like Vedanthangal are situated amidst agrarian landscapes and birds spend the day out there in the fields feeding and return back to the lake in the evening for shelter. Out of 223 species of birds recorded from the coastal wetlands of India, the highest number of species was recorded from the east coast. The order Charadriiformes was highest in dominance followed by Falconiformes and Ciconiiformes. 31 threatened birds species were recorded from the coastal wetlands. Hence, there is a need to protect coastal and marine areas with high priority conservation for future research on bird communities.

The brief details of Bird Sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu (as on 01-01-2016) are stated below:

Sl.No Name of Sanctuary Area in ha Legal status

G.O.Ms. No.in which declared

District in which located

Major Species found Section of Wildlife (Protection) Act under which declared

1 Vedanthangal Birds Sanctuary

30.000 PWD TANK

199 E&F Department dated 3.7.98

Kanchee puram Cormorants, egrets, grey heron, Open billed stork, Pelicans, migratory birds like garguney, teals, shovallers

Final notification issued u/s 26A(1)

2 Karikili Birds Sanctuary 61.210 PWD TANK


Kanchee puram Cormorants, egrets, grey heron, spoon billed stork,

18(1)

3 Vettangudi birds Sanctuary

38.400 PWD TANK


Sivagangai Cormorants, egrets, herons, teals, pelicans

18(1)

4 Kanjirankulam Birds Sanctuary

104.000 PWD TANK

684 E&F Department Dated 21.9.89

Ramanatha puram

Cormorants, egrets, herons, teals, pelicans

18(1)

5 Chitrangudi Birds Sanctuary

47.630 PWD TANK


Ramanatha puram

Cormorants, egrets, herons, teals, pelicans

18(1)

6 Udayamarthanda puram Birds Sanctuary

45.280 PWD TANK


Tiruvarur Little cormorant, darter, spoon bill, Indian Reef Heron, Grey heron, white necked stork


7 Vaduvoor birds Sanctuary

128.100 PWD TANK


Tiruvarur Cormorants, egrets, ibis, herons and many variety of birds

Final notification issued under section 26A(1)

8 Koonthankulam- Kadankulam Birds Sanctuary

129.000 PWD TANK


Tirunelveli Grey pelican, painted stork, white Ibis, jackal, rat snake

18(1)

9 Karaivetti Birds Sanctuary

453.710 PWD TANK

92 E&F Department Dated 5.4.99

Arialur Egrets, pelican, Grey heron, White Ibis, Spoon bill

18(1)

10 Vellode Birds Sanctuary 77.180 PWD TANK


Erode Spoon bill, Teals, Pintail ducks, Darter


Sl.No Name of Sanctuary Area in ha Legal status

G.O.Ms. No.in which declared

District in which located

Major Species found Section of Wildlife (Protection) Act under which declared

11 Melaselvanur- Kilaselvanur Birds Sanctuary

593.080 PWD TANK


Ramanatha puram

Grey Pelican, Painted Stork 18(1)

12 Theerthangal Bird Sanctury

29.290 PWD TANK

G.O.Ms No.220 E&F Department dated 15.12.2010

Ramanatha puram

White -breasted Kingfisher, Spot- billed Pelican, Brahminy Kite

18(1)

13 Sakkarakottai Tank Birds Sanctuary

230.490 PWD TANK

G.O.Ms. No 114 E&F Department dated 17-04-2012

Ramanatha puram

Spot billed Pelican, Egret, Common Myna, Grey Heron, Little Cormorant, Black Kite etc

18( 1 )

14 Oussudu Lake Birds Sanctaury

331.785 PWD TANK

G.O.Ms. No 49 E&F Department dated 31-03-2015

Villupuram Spot billed Pelican, Egret, Common Myna, Grey Heron, Little Cormorant, Black Kite etc

18( 1 )

15. Pulicat Lake Birds Sanctuary

15367.000 LAKE 1247E&F Department dated 22.9.80

Tiruvallur Spot billed Pelican, Egret, Common Myna, Grey Heron, Little Cormorant, Black Kite etc

18( 1)

Total 17666.155

Annexure 8: Important Bird Area Information Acoording to Birdlife International, the detailed information of the Important Bird Area are listed as below.

No IBA Northing Easting Altitude m Area ha

IN274 Naduvattam 11.32 N 76.57 E 1500-0 m 3,538

IN258 Big Tank (Peria Kanmai) and Sakkarakotai Kanmai

9.37 N 78.57 E 0 m 2,541

IN264 Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park 8.67 N 78.17 E 0-6 m 623

IN278 Srivilliputhur Wildlife Sanctuary 9.52 N 77.42 E 200-1200 m 48,520

IN265 Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

10.42 N 76.97 E 350-2500 m 98,700

IN258 Veeranam Lake 11.25 N 79.54 E 72-0 m 3,885

IN282 Vandivoorand Kunnathur Tanks (Madurai)

9.92 N 78.15 E 0 m 287

IN224 Pulicat Lake 13.67 N 80.18 E 0-10 m 60,000

IN275 Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary 10.30 N 79.85 E 0-3 m 37,733

IN261 Chitragudi and Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary

9.33 N 78.48 E 15-0 m 152

IN251 Silent Valley National Park 11.13 N 76.43 E 658-2383 m 8,952

IN271 Kullur Sandai Reservoir 9.56 N 78.01 E 80-0 m 1,362

IN269 Kuntangulam Bird Sanctuary 8.47 N 77.73 E 0-0 m 129

Source: http://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet

http://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet

98

IN274 : Naduvattam Country/territory: India IBA Criteria met: A1, A2 (2004) Area: 3,538 ha Protection status: Bombay Natural History Society

Most recent IBA monitoring assessment

Year of assessment Threat score (pressure) Condition score (state) Action score (response)

2003 low not assessed not assessed

Site description 1. Naduvattam is a forest range under the jurisdiction of the South Division of Nilgiris. It comprises of two areas, namely Mudimunth (1,346 ha) and Naduvattam beats (2,192 ha). It has several pockets of Shola and exotic plantation. This site is located between Mudumalai and Ooty. Key biodiversity 2. Avifauna: Not much study has been done, but Loven Pereira (pers. comm. 2003) has seen more than 40 species, including some Western Ghats endemics. The site lies in the Western Ghats (Endemic Bird Area 123), where Stattersfield et al. (1998) have listed 16 restricted range species. Eight of them are found in this IBA. All the five restricted range species associated with Wet Temperate sholas and Subtropical Broadleaf Hill Forest (Stattersfield et al. 1998) are found, which proves that some shola habitat is still available, despite extensive plantation of exotics in the past. The Vulnerable Kashmir Flycatcher Ficedula subrubra is also recorded from this IBA. Naduvattam is located in Biome-10 (Indian Peninsula Tropical Moist Forests: BirdLife International, undated). Fifteen species represent this biome. Only two species, White-cheeked Barbet Pomatorhinus horsfieldii and Indian Scimitar Babbler Pomatorhinus horsfieldii, have been located till now, but more are likely to be found once detailed studies are conducted. 3. Other Key Fauna: Not much information is available. Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 4. The IBA is quite well protected. No one is allowed without a permit. A Cinchona plantation has been converted into a tea plantation by the Government of Tamil Nadu. Commercialization of native vegetation types (mainly grassland) has, however, severely effected the ecology of this area. IBA Criteria 5. Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species

Species Current IUCN Red List Category

Season Year(s) of estimate

Population estimate

IBA Criteria Triggered

Nilgiri Woodpigeon Columba elphinstonii

VU resident 2004 present A1, A2

Grey-headed Bulbul Brachypodius priocephalus

NT resident 2004 present A2

http://datazone.birdlife.org/country/india

http://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/22690173




http://www.birdlife.org/



Population estimate


Garrulax cachinnans NR resident 2004 present A1, A2

Brachypteryx major NR resident 2004 present A1, A2

Nilgiri Flycatcher Eumyias albicaudatus

LC resident 2004 present A2

Kashmir Flycatcher Ficedula subrubra

VU winter 2004 present A1, A2

Black-and-orange Flycatcher Ficedula nigrorufa


Crimson-backed Sunbird Leptocoma minima


Nilgiri Pipit Anthus nilghiriensis

VU resident 2004 present A2

Note: This table presents the IBA criteria triggered and the species that triggered then at the time of assessment, the current IUCN Red List category may vary from that which was in place at that time. IBA Monitoring


Year of assessment Threat score (pressure)

Condition score (state)

Action score (response)


Was the whole site covered?

Yes State assessed by unset

Accuracy of information good

Threats to the site (pressure)

Threat Level 1 Threat Level 2 Timing Scope Severity Result

Agricultural expansion and intensification

annual & perennial non-timber crops - agro-industry farming

happening now

small area/few individuals (<10%)

slow but significant deterioration

low


wood and pulp plantations (includes afforestation) - agro-industry plantations

happening now


very rapid to severe deterioration

low

Conservation actions taken at site (response)

Conservation Designation Management Planning Conservation Action Result

Not assessed Not assessed Not assessed not assessed

IBA Protection Protection status:

Protected Area

Designation Area (ha)

Relationship with IBA Overlap with IBA (ha)

Western Ghats

World Heritage Site 795,315 protected area is adjacent to site

0

Nilgiri Tahr National Park 7,800 unknown 0

Nilgiri Bird Reserve 552,000 unknown 0

Nilgiri UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserve

552,000 protected area contains site

3,538














http://www.protectedplanet.net/sites/555547990





100

Habitats

IUCN Habitat Habitat detail Extent (% of site)

Forest

-

Shrubland

-

Land use

Land-use Extent (% of site)

forestry -

Country/territory: India Central coordinates: 11o 19' 0" North (11.32o) 76o 34' 0" East (76.57o) Area: 3,538 ha Altitude: 1500-0 m

http://www.iucnredlist.org/technical-documents/classification-schemes/habitats-classification-scheme-ver3

IN258: Big Tank (Peria Kanmai) and Sakkarakotai Kanmai Country/territory: India IBA Criteria met: A1, A4iii (2004) For more information about IBA criteria please click here Area: 2,541 ha Protection status:




Site description 6. Big Tank or Peria Kanmai (System Tank) (891 ha) and Sakkarakottai Kanmai (Non-system Tank) (1,650 ha) are twin wetlands of great importance for bird conservation, although they were initially built to provide irrigation and drinking water. Peria Kanmai is fed by the River Vaigai and Sakkarakottai Kanmai is rainfed. These wetlands are located 5 km north of the district headquarters at Ramanathapuram. The wetlands are rich in aquatic flora, especially Scirpus, Cyperus pygmaeus, Cyperus difformis and Cynodon dactylon. Ipomea carnea can be seen in dense stands on the periphery. Key biodiversity 7. Avifauna: This site has been selected as an IBA based on the large numbers of congregatory waterfowl, and especially as a nesting site for the globally threatened Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis. The wetlands have attracted waterfowl immediately after the completion of the dams. Many birds started nesting on the numerous Acacia niloticatrees found inside the tank. Significant numbers of heronry species such as the Grey Heron Ardea cinerea, Purple Heron Ardea purpurea, cormorants Phalacrocorax spp., Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis, Little Egret Egretta garzetta and Large or Great Egret Casmerodius albus nest there. Coot Fulica atra is also found breeding on these wetlands. Recently small numbers (35-40) of Spotbilled Pelican were found breeding. Balachandran (pers. comm. 2003) has found that the pelicans shift their nesting site between these two wetlands, depending upon availability of water. The Big Tank (Peria Kanmai) is close to the Gulf of Mannar, from where Greater Flamingos Phoenicopterus ruber frequent this lake in thousands when the water level is low (S. Balachandran, per. comm. 2002). During the Annual Waterfowl Count in 2002, nearly 1,600 were sighted. A very large congregation of ducks is also seen. At a time, there may not be as much as 20,000 birds (A4iii criteria), but in a year more than 20,000 birds use these wetlands. These tanks also attract many species listed as Near Threatened. On 25 April, 2002, 1,800 White Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus, 250 Black Ibis Pseudibis papillosa, 1,300 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus, 1,500 Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala and 2000 Little Egret Egretta garzetta were seen, along with other waterbirds (S. Balachandran pers. comm. 2003). The numbers were much more than the 1% mentioned by Wetlands International (2002). 8. Other Key Fauna: As these wetlands are surrounded by human habitation, there is not much large terrestrial fauna. Country/territory: India Central coordinates: 9o 22' 0" North (9.37o) 78o 52' 0" East (78.87o) Area: 2,541 ha Altitude: 0-0 m


http://datazone.birdlife.org/site/ibacriteria

102

IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate


Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis


A4iii Species group - waterbirds

n/a unknown 2004 20,000 individuals

A4iii

Note: This table presents the IBA criteria triggered and the species that triggered then at the time of assessment, the current IUCN Red List category may vary from that which was in place at that time. Year of compilation: 2004 Site description 9. Big Tank or Peria Kanmai (System Tank) (891 ha) and Sakkarakottai Kanmai (Non-system Tank) (1,650 ha) are twin wetlands of great importance for bird conservation, although they were initially built to provide irrigation and drinking water. Peria Kanmai is fed by the River Vaigai and Sakkarakottai Kanmai is rainfed. These wetlands are located 5 km north of the district headquarters at Ramanathapuram. The wetlands are rich in aquatic flora, especially Scirpus, Cyperus pygmaeus,





Cyperus difformis and Cynodon dactylon. Ipomea carnea can be seen in dense stands on the periphery. Key biodiversity 10. Avifauna: This site has been selected as an IBA based on the large numbers of congregatory waterfowl, and especially as a nesting site for the globally threatened Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis. The wetlands have attracted waterfowl immediately after the completion of the dams. Many birds started nesting on the numerous Acacia niloticatrees found inside the tank. Significant numbers of heronry species such as the Grey Heron Ardea cinerea, Purple Heron Ardea purpurea, cormorants Phalacrocorax spp., Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis, Little Egret Egretta garzetta and Large or Great Egret Casmerodius albus nest there. Coot Fulica atra is also found breeding on these wetlands. Recently small numbers (35-40) of Spotbilled Pelican were found breeding. Balachandran (pers. comm. 2003) has found that the pelicans shift their nesting site between these two wetlands, depending upon availability of water. The Big Tank (Peria Kanmai) is close to the Gulf of Mannar, from where Greater Flamingos Phoenicopterus ruber frequent this lake in thousands when the water level is low (S. Balachandran, per. comm. 2002). During the Annual Waterfowl Count in 2002, nearly 1,600 were sighted. A very large congregation of ducks is also seen. At a time, there may not be as much as 20,000 birds (A4iii criteria), but in a year more than 20,000 birds use these wetlands. These tanks also attract many species listed as Near Threatened. On 25 April, 2002, 1,800 White Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus, 250 Black Ibis Pseudibis papillosa, 1,300 Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus, 1,500 Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala and 2000 Little Egret Egretta garzetta were seen, along with other waterbirds (S. Balachandran pers. comm. 2003). The numbers were much more than the 1% mentioned by Wetlands International (2002). 11. Other Key Fauna: As these wetlands are surrounded by human habitation, there is not much large terrestrial fauna. Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 12. Main Threats: Illegal snail collection; Poaching and collection of eggs and chicks; Illegal tree cutting. 13. These wetlands are under the control of the Irrigation Department, but the Forest Department has control on the wildlife. Illegal collection of bird eggs and chicks still occurs, though not to the same extent as before. Effluence from a hospital pollutes the water of Sakkarakotai Kanmai. This needs to be stopped at once. Attempts should be made to involve villagers and students in the conservation of birds. Environmental awareness programmes to highlight the role of guano-rich water in increasing the fertility of the crop fields should be taken up. If the villagers agree, these tanks should be considered as Community Conservation Areas, under the modified Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act. IBA Monitoring










Threat Level 1

Threat Level 2 Timing Scope Severity Result

Biological resource use

hunting & collecting terrestrial animals - intentional use (species being assessed is the

happening now

small area/few individuals

no or imperceptible deterioration

low

104

target) (<10%)


logging & wood harvesting - unintentional effects: subsistence/small scale

happening now



low

Pollution industrial & military effluents - type unknown/unrecorded

happening now



low

Conservation actions taken at site (response) Conservation Designation Management Planning Conservation Action Result Not assessed Not assessed Not assessed not assessed

Habitats


Coastline

-

Artificial - aquatic

-

Land use


agriculture -

fisheries/aquaculture -


IN264: Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park IBA Criteria met: A1, A4iii (2004) Area: 623 ha Protection status:



2003 medium not assessed not assessed

Site description 14. The Gulf of Mannar, the first marine Biosphere Reserve of India, off the southern extremity of India, includes a group of 21 islands, located 0.2 to 8 km off the coast. Most of the islands are small, from a few hectares to less than 4 sq. km., running roughly parallel to the coast. The islands are mainly of coral origin. The Gulf of Mannar is the first Marine Biosphere Reserve not only in India, but also in south and southeast Asia. It is about 60 km from Ramanathapuram. The Gulf of Mannar has a coastal length of about 141 km. The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) commission on National Parks, and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), identified the Reserve as being an area of “Particular concern” given its biodiversity and special ‘multiple use’ management status. Mandapam lies on a narrow peninsula projecting from the southeast coast of India, with the Gulf of Mannar to the south and Palk Bay to the north. At the end of the peninsular extension is Pamban Island, which is connected to the mainland by a railway bridge. The inshore region of the Palk Bay is largely muddy, while in the Gulf of Mannar, it is rocky and interspersed with small areas of sand and mud (Balachandran 1995). The mixing of waters of Palk Bay and the Gulf takes place through the Pamban Pass and also through Adam’s Bridge between Dhanushkodi and the west coast of Sri Lanka (Jayaraman 1954). The Gulf of Mannar Marine NP consists of 6.23 sq. km, but the Biosphere Reserve stretches 180 km along the coast and is c. 10 km wide. Forty villages lie within the Biosphere Reserve. There are four or five main islands and lagoons: Manali Island, Hare island, Dhanushkodi lagoon, Kundugal inter-tidal area, Pallaimadam lagoon and Dhanushkodi lagoon. Key biodiversity 15. Avifauna: About 187 species of aquatic and terrestrial birds have been identified from this IBA (Balachandran 1990, 1995), which is famous for waders and seabirds. Sometimes >50,000 water birds are found here. Pelagic birds are also recorded (Balachandran 1990). Its proximity to Sri Lanka makes this IBA an important flyway for migratory birds. Among the waders, the Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus, Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea and Little Stint Calidrisminuta are the most abundant. Red Knot Calidris canutus is a regular winter visitor in small numbers, and the species is not a vagrant as reported previously. The rare Eastern Knot C. tenuirostris has also been recorded from this area. The occurrence of Crab Plovers Dromas ardeola in hundreds indicates that the two islands (Manali and Hare) in the Gulf of Mannar are important habitats for the species, next only to Pirotan Islands in Kutch (coastal northwest India, another IBA) (where two to three thousand individuals were reported to winter regularly). The Bar-tailed Godwit Limosalapponica, reportedly a straggler in south India, has been recorded in hundreds. The status of Sanderling Calidris albawas confirmed as a regular common winter migrant, after being first recorded by Biddulph (1938) earlier. The marine terns, such as the Lesser Crested Sterna bengalensis and the Sandwich S. sandvicensis commonly occur, and the former was found breeding. The other breeding species at Mandapam are: Little Tern Sterna albifrons, Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus, Stone Plover Esacus magnirostris and Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus. Since Greater flamingos Phoenicopterus ruber frequent this area in several thousands, this IBA ranks third as an important wintering ground for flamingos along the east coast, after Pulicat Lake (IBA) and Great Vedaranyam Swamp. Rare waders in this area are the Broad-billed Sandpiper Limicola falcinellus, Dunlin Calidris alpina, Long-toed Stint Calidris subminuta and Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus. The Gulf of Mannar lies within the passage of many migrants such as Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa and Broad-billed Sandpiper. Also, 15 species of migratory waders and 8 species of migratory terns were found to

106

summer here especially on the two islands. Along with Chilika Lake in Orissa (an IBA) and Point Calimere in Tamil Nadu (an IBA), the Gulf of Mannar forms an extremely important link for migrant and resident waders. On the Sri Lanka side, about 10 km away, in Jaffna district, there are 4 IBAs (Anatidal-Thondamannar, Araly South-Punale, Kaithady and Kayts Island-Mandativu (Anon. 2003). 16. Other Key Fauna: This IBA is very important for the Dugong Dugong dugon, one of the most endangered species of marine mammals on the east coast of India. Several species of cetaceans also occur in the Park. Marine turtles breed in small numbers, and there is a rich marine fauna associated with the reefs and seagrass. Green Tiger Prawn Penaeussemisulcatus is extensively harvested for export. 17. The Gulf of Mannar NP has 3,600 species of plants and animals. The Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay contain some of the most extensive beds of sea-grasses (Hydrocharitaceae and Potamogetonaceae) on the east coast of India. Six of the world’s 12 seagrass genera and 11 of the world’s 50 species, occur in the Gulf. Krusadai Island exemplifies the biological significance of this area. The island harbours three species of seagrass endemic to the Gulf of Mannar, and also a unique Balanoglossus (protochordate) Ptychdera fluva, a taxonomically unique living fossil which links vertebrates with invertebrates. The seagrass beds are extremely important for the Dugong. They also provide food and habitat to five species of marine turtles: Green Chelonia mydas, Olive Ridley Lepidochelys olivacea, Hawksbill Eretmochelys imbricata, Leathery Dermochelys coriacea, and Loggerhead Caretta caretta which is very rare. 18. About 120 species of coral have been identified from the Gulf of Mannar NP. Mangroves are also very common. 17 species have been identified so far, including Pemphis acidula, which is endemic to the Gulf of Mannar. IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate





n/a non-breeding

2004 20,000-49,999 individuals

A4iii













fishing & harvesting aquatic resources - unintentional effects: subsistence/small

happening now

some of area/population (10-49%)


medium





scale


hunting & collecting terrestrial animals - intentional use (species being assessed is the target)

happening now



low

Energy production and mining

mining and quarrying past (and unlikely to return) and no longer limiting



low

Human intrusions and disturbance

recreational activities happening now



low

Invasive and other problematic species and genes

invasive non-native/alien species/diseases - named species

happening now



low

Residential and commercial development

commercial and industrial development

happening now



low

Transportation and service corridors

shipping lanes likely in long term (beyond 4 years)



low





Protected Area

Designation Area (ha) Relationship with IBA Overlap with IBA (ha)

Gulf of Mannar

UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserve

1,050,000 protected area contains site

623

Gulf of Mannar

Marine National Park 62,300 protected area contains site

623

Habitats


Forest

-

Shrubland

-

Coastline

-

Land use



nature conservation and research -

Country/territory: India Central coordinates: 8o 40' 0" North (8.67o) 78o 10' 0" East (78.17o)






108

Area: 623 ha Altitude: 0-6 m

IN278: Srivilliputhur Wildlife Sanctuary Country/territory: India IBA Criteria met: A1, A2 (2004) For more information about IBA criteria please click here Area: 48,520 ha Protection status:



2003 high not assessed not assessed

Site description 19. Srivilliputtur Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wild Sanctuary is located about 40 km south of Madurai, north of Sivagiri Hills. Its southwestern boundary abuts Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala. The terrain is mostly undulating with high grassy and barren rocky peaks, while the slopes and deep valleys have very dense vegetation. Srivilliputur receives the major part of its annual rainfall from the northeast monsoon from October to November. It also receives heavy rain from the southwest monsoon. The vegetation of the Sanctuary consists of Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest, Tropical Moist Forest, and Tropical Thorn Forest. The Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest dominates in the eastern and lower altitude slopes. It is also an important habitat for the Grizzled Giant squirrel Ratufa macrura dandolena. The higher areas have Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest and Wet Evergreen Forests. The eastern lowlands have Tropical Thorn Forest. Key biodiversity 20. Avifauna: About 220 bird species have been recorded in this area, which includes 14 of the 16 restricted range and endemic species found in the Western Ghats (J. Joshua pers. comm. 2003). There is a clear evidence of change in species composition according to change in altitude and habitat. The valleys with Moist Deciduous, Semi-evergreen and Evergreen forests on the slopes are home to the Small Sunbird Nectarinia minima, White-bellied Treepie Dendrocitta leucogastra, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher Cyornis pallipes and many endemic species, that still exist in good numbers. The Nilgiri Wood-Pigeon Columba elphinstonii is also frequently sighted in this area. The raptors are well represented, with more than 14 species including the Critically Endangered Oriental White-bellied Vulture Gyps bengalensis and Long-billed Vulture G. indicus. Another raptor, the Rufousbellied Hawk Eagle Hieraaetus kienerii, also exists in this area. Three hornbill species, the Great Pied Hornbill Buceros bicornis, Malabar Pied-hornbill Anthracoceros coronatus and Malabar Grey Hornbill Ocyceros griseus can be sighted frequently. 21. Other Key Fauna: The Grizzled Giant Squirrel Ratufa macroura dandolena is the most famous mammal of Srivilliputtur Sanctuary. It is endemic to the southern Western Ghats and Sri Lanka (Prater 1990). This Sanctuary has a viable breeding population of this rare animal. 22. The other threatened mammals found here are Indian Giant Squirrel Ratufa indica indica, Slender Loris Loris tardigradus, Nilgiri Langur Trachypithecus johni, Lion-tailed Macaque Macaca silenus, Nilgiri Marten Martes gwatkinsi, Nilgiri Tahr Hemitragus hylocrius, Asiatic Elephant Elephas maximus, Gaur Bos frontalis and Indian Wild Dog Cuon alpinus. 23. Nineteen species of reptiles were recorded during a study conducted by the World Wide Fund for Nature-India (Bhupathy and Kannan 2002). The following three species are endemic to the Western Ghats: Draco or Gliding Lizard Draco dussumieri, Large-scaled Calotes Calotes grandisquamis and Southern Green Calotes C. calotes (Malhotra and Davis 1991).



110

Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 24. Main Threats: Poaching; Illicit cutting of trees; Over-grazing by livestock; Seasonal fires; Lopping for minor non-timber forest products. 25. Habitat degradation is one of the major conservation issues in this Sanctuary. The last remaining population of the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel also faces heavy pressure, along with avifauna and larger mammals, because of habitat degradation mainly due to severe wood cutting for fuel and timber (Joshua and Johnsingh 1994). Forestry practices like monoculture, plantation and weed infestation in the forest should be controlled immediately. Joshua (1992) has reported that the Grizzled Giant squirrel greatly prefers Tamarindus indica trees, for foraging and nesting. There are pressures from the locals adjoining the forest, and from other areas of the nearest towns Srvilliputur and Rajapalayam. Srivilliputur, which is famed for milk products, that has a large population of livestock that uses this forest intensively. Livestock grazing must be stopped entirely. Effective biodiversity need to be implemented to ensure protection of biodiversity. Country/territory: India Central coordinates: 9o 31' 16" North (9.52o) 77o 25' 7" East (77.42o) Area: 48,520 ha Altitude: 200-1200 m IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate




White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis

CR non-breeding

2004 present A1





Indian Vulture Gyps indicus CR non-breeding

2004 present A1

Malabar Grey Hornbill Ocyceros griseus


Malabar Parakeet Psittacula columboides


White-bellied Treepie Dendrocitta leucogastra


Broad-tailed Grassbird Schoenicola platyurus




Garrulax cachinnans NR resident 2004 present A1, A2

Rufous Babbler Argya subrufa


Wynaad Laughingthrush Garrulax delesserti


Brachypteryx major NR resident 2004 present A1, A2



White-bellied Blue-flycatcher Cyornis pallidipes







VU resident 2004 present A2













livestock farming and ranching (includes forest grazing) - small-holder grazing, ranching or farming

happening now


moderate to rapid deterioration

high



happening now



low


gathering terrestrial plants - unintentional effects (species being

happening now



low




























112

assessed is not the target)



happening now



low



happening now

majority/most of area/population (50-90%)


high


invasive non-native/alien species/diseases - unspecified species

happening now



low

Natural system modifications

fire & fire suppression - increase in fire frequency/intensity

happening now



low





Protected Area



Western Ghats

World Heritage Site

795,315 protected area overlaps with site

44,236

Srivilliputhur Sanctuary 48,520 is identical to site 48,520

Habitats


Forest

-

Land use







IN265: Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park

Country/territory: India IBA Criteria met: A1, A2, A3 (2004) Area: 98,700 ha Protection status:




Country/territory: India Central coordinates: 10o 25' 10" North (10.42o) 76o 58' 10" East (76.97o) Area: 98,700 ha Altitude: 350-2500 m

Site description 26. Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, also called Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 98,700 ha. On its western side lies the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary (an IBA) of Kerala which covers 28,500 ha. The inter-state boundary between Tamil Nadu and Kerala separates the two protected areas administratively, but ecologically there is no barrier. The terrain is largely hilly with altitude varying from 350 m to 2,500 m. The Anamalai Hills cover an area of about 2,00,000 ha in the Western Ghats. Between the Anamalai Hills in the south and the Nilgiri Plateau in the north, is a 25 km wide stretch of flat land called the Palghat Gap, which has been an important biogeographic barrier for certain birds and other taxa. This isolation from the northern ranges has resulted in speciation in many plant and animal groups in the Anamalai Hills (Rodgers and Panwar 1988). The altitudinal range (<150 m to >2500 m) has led to a variety of habitats. Due to these factors, Anamalai Hills have assumed special conservation importance. Protected areas cover three-quarters of the total area of Anamalai Hills, of which Anamalai and Parambikulam Sanctuaries form more than 80%. The vegetation can be divided into five broad categories: Tropical Evergreen Rainforest, Tropical Montane Forest, Grassland and Moist Dry Deciduous Forest. Important plant species include Michelia nilagirica, Rhododendronarboreum, Cymbopogon sp., Terminalia-Anogeissus-Tectona grandis


114

series, pure stands of Bambusa arundinacea and Dendrocalamus strictus. Monocultures include plantations of tea Thea sinensis, coffee Coffee arabica, Cinchonacinchona sp., rubber Ficus sp. and teak Tectona grandis which surround this IBA. Key biodiversity 27. Avifauna: From 1991 to 1993, in a bird survey in Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, a total of 218 bird species were recorded. Of these, 12 were endemic and 75 were typical rainforest species (Kannan 1998, Raman 2001). In a recent study that was confined to two ranges (Ulandy and Pollachi) of this IBA, 139 species were recorded, of which 10 are restricted range and three are Vulnerable (Sivakumaran and Rahmani 2002) The Vulnerable Nilgiri Wood-Pigeon Columba elphinstonii, and Near Threatened Great Pied Hornbill Buceros bicornis are breeding residents in the Sanctuary, mainly in Kariyan-Shola, Anaikunthy-Shola, Varagalaiyar, and Vanathiar-Shola of Ulandy Range, and the other ranges such as Valparai and Manjam Patty. Ceylon Frogmouth Batrachostomus moniliger, an uncommon species, breeds in Kariyan-Shola, and probably in other sholas also (Sivakumaran and Rahmani, 2002). Stattersfield et al. (1998) have listed 16 restricted range species in the Western Ghats Endemic Bird Area. In this IBA site, 15 have been recorded till now (Raman 2001, Sivakumaran and Rahmani 2002). Except for the Nilgiri Laughingthrush Garrulax cachinnans, which is in any case not found south of the Palghat Gap (Ali and Ripley 1987, Grimmett et al. 1998), all the endemic birds of the Western Ghats were seen. This is one of the IBAs in the Western Ghats where every expected endemic has been found. Besides threatened species, this site also has five Near Threatened species. This IBA lies in the Biome-10 (Indian Peninsula Tropical Moist Forest), according to the classification by BirdLife International (undated). Fifteen species have been listed in this biome, of which ten are found at this site. 28. Other Key Fauna: The Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary and the Eravikulam National Park (both in Kerala), in conjunction with the adjacent forests form a vital conservation unit for many endangered large mammals including the Asian Elephant Elephas maximus and the Nilgiri Tahr Hemitragus hylocrius (Rodgers and Panwar 1988). Mishra and Johnsingh (1994) estimate between 560 and 680 Tahrs in Anamalai and Parambikulam Sanctuaries, and between 1,360 and 1,480 if we include Eravikulam also – this conservation unit contains approximately half of the existing population of Nilgiri Tahr in the wild. Tiger Panthera tigris, Leopard Panthera pardus and Dhole or Wild Dog Cuon alpinus are the major predators of Tahr in the area. This area has a viable population of Gaur Bos frontalis. 29. Mammals endemic to the Western Ghats, besides the Nilgiri Tahr, include the Lion-tailed Macaque Macaca silenus, the Nilgiri Langur Trachypithecus johni, the Dusky-striped Squirrel Funambulus sublineatus, and the Travancore Flying Squirrel Petinomys fuscocapillus (Prater 1980; Ashraf et al. 1993). Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 30. Main Threats: Encroachments in the foothills; Poaching; Excessive tourism. The Anamalai Hills were opened to planters in 1864 when the Government agreed to auction some of the rainforest areas, termed as ‘waste’ in official records, for tea and coffee plantations. Thus began the establishment of the British in the Anamalai, and a century of deforestation and habitat conversion. Vast areas were cleared for coffee, tea, and teak plantations (Kumar 1987). Most of the remaining forests were also selectively logged. These plantations also caused large-scale resettlement of a huge workforce (Kumar 1987). The area abounded in wildlife and attracted hunters, although notes of hunters and planter-naturalists from the early 20th century indicate that hunting was not on a major scale. At present, tea estates occupy about 18,000 ha and Cinchona plantations 4,000 ha within the Anamalai Sanctuary (Sundararaju 1987). The Anamalai is home to nearly 5,000 tribals of six groups: Malasar, Malai Malasar, Kadar, Muduvar, Ervallars and Pulayars. They grow traditional crops, without the use of chemicals. It is possible that due to onslaught of civilization, some of these crops varieties are going extinct, particularly in the plains. There is an urgent need to document the traditional knowledge and wisdom of these tribals.

IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate



VU resident 2004 present A1, A2, A3


LC resident 2004 present A2, A3








NT resident 2004 present A2, A3

Garrulax jerdoni NR resident 2004 present A2, A3





Brachypteryx major NR resident 2004 present A1, A2, A3
























happening now



high

Agricultural expansion and

annual & perennial non-timber crops -

happening now

small area/few individuals

moderate to rapid

low





























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intensification small-holder farming (<10%) deterioration



past (and unlikely to return) and no longer limiting



low



happening now



low


logging & wood harvesting - unintentional effects: large scale

happening now



high


recreational activities

happening now



low


housing and urban areas

happening now



low





Protected Area



Western Ghats

World Heritage Site

795,315 protected area is adjacent to site

0

Indira Gandhi

National Park 11,710 protected area contained by site

11,710

Indira Gandhi

Sanctuary 84,149 protected area contained by site

84,149

Anamalai Sanctuary 84,149 protected area contained by site

84,149

Habitats


Forest

-

Shrubland

-

Grassland

-

Artificial - terrestrial

-

For further information about the habitat classification please click here. Land use


forestry -











IN258: Veeranam Lake

IBA Criteria met: A1, A4i, A4iii (2004) Area: 3,885 ha Central coordinates: 11o 15' 0" North (11.25o) 79o 32' 30" East (79.54o) Area: 3,885 ha Altitude: 72-0 m Protection status:




Year of compilation: 2004 Site description 31. Veeranam lake is situated in Cuddalore district, about 25 km west of Chidambaram town. It is one of the biggest and oldest lakes in Tamil Nadu. The Chola King Paranthaga constructed this lake in the 9th century AD. The book Ponniyen Selvan authored by Kalki in 1950 gives information on this lake, stating that it was constructed over 1,000 years ago by Prince Rajathithar, son of Paranthaga Cholan. The lake was originally called Veeranarayanan lake. The lake is about 16 km long and 8 km broad with a waterspread of about 15 sq. km. There are 34 sluices around the lake through which

118

about 40,000 acres of two talukas, namely Chidambaram and Kattumanarkoil receive irrigation. The lake is fed by Vadavar river and Sengal stream. Under the current New Veeranam Project, parts of the lake were desilted recently. Veeranam Lake has a rich aquatic plant diversity with submerged, floating and emergent species. In several parts of the lake, mats of reeds and Ipomoea carnea occur. The trees found in the surrounding areas, islets and on the bunds are Acacia nilotica, Prosopis chilensis, Thespesia populnea, Pithecelobium dulce, Borassus flabellifer, Ficus benghalensis, F. religiosa and Azadirachta indica. Key biodiversity 32. Avifauna: Veeranam lake is an important area for migrant and resident birds. The lake qualifies A4iii criteria as it holds, on a regular basis, more than 20,000 waterbirds. According to Thiyagesan (pers. comm. 2001), about 20,000 Asian Openbill Anastomus oscitans visit this area, and V. Santharam (pers. comm. 2003) has counted about 10,000 Black-tailed Godwits Limosa limosa. According to Wetlands International (2002), the total breeding population of the Asian Openbill in South Asia is 1,25,000 and the 1% population threshold is 1,250. Similarly, the total biogeographic population in South Asia of Black-tailed Godwit is 1,00,000 (Wetlands International 2002). With the sighting of 10,000 in Veeranam, it means that 10% of the population uses this IBA. Therefore, this site also qualifies A4i criteria. The Asian Openbill regularly forages in the lake and nests in the adjacent village Tiruchinapuram. According to the locals, Spotbilled Pelicans Pelecanus philippensis also visit the lake in small numbers especially during summer when the water level is reduced. Altogether, 54 species have been recorded, of which 81% are waterbirds (Anand et al. 1997, Meganathan 2002). 33. Other Key Fauna: As the lake is surrounded by agricultural fields and human habitations, there are no large wild mammals of any conservation concern. The lake is rich source of many commercial fish such as Anabas testudines, Channa punctatus, Mastacembelus armatus and Mystus tenegra, (Anand 1999, Bharathi 2002). Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 34. Main Threats: Poaching of birds; Fishing and associated disturbances; Cattle grazing; Siltation; Encroachment; Weed invasion; Pollution. 35. Improvements of the Vadavar channel, and strengthening of the Veeranam lake main bund are two pressing needs. There has been a demand to declare this area as a bird sanctuary, or to create community conservation areas where water would be managed by the Irrigation Department, and the Forest Department would have the authority to ensure a viable water level for birds. Use of pesticides is very high in the area, which may be causing problems. There is a proposal to divert water from Veeranam to Chennai for drinking purposes. This would deplete the reservoir quickly, much before the migratory waterfowl leave the site. Several research studies have been conducted by the Wildlife Biology Division of Anbanathapuram Vagayara Charity College (Autonomous) (A.V.C), Mayiladuthurai, all of which suggest the importance of this wetland area for the welfare of both the local people and birds. IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate


Asian Openbill Anastomus oscitans

LC - 2004 present A4i



Black-tailed Godwit NT winter 2004 present A4i






Limosa limosa



A4iii

Note: This table presents the IBA criteria triggered and the species that triggered then at the time of assessment, the current

IUCN Red List category may vary from that which was in place at that time. IBA Monitoring












annual & perennial non-timber crops - small-holder farming

happening now



low



happening now



low



happening now



low


work and other activities

happening now



low


invasive non-native/alien species/diseases - unspecified species

happening now



low

Natural system modifications

dams & water management/use - abstraction of surface water (domestic use)

likely in long term (beyond 4 years)



medium

Pollution agricultural & forestry effluents - herbicides and pesticides

happening now



medium

Pollution agricultural & forestry effluents - soil erosion, sedimentation

happening now



medium




Habitats




120



-

Land use


agriculture -


forestry -

other -

rangeland/pastureland -

water management -


IN282: Vandivoorand Kunnathur Tanks (Madurai)

IBA Criteria met: A1 (2004) For more information about IBA criteria please click here Area: 278 ha Protection status:




Central coordinates: 9o 55' 16" North (9.92o) 78o 9' 13" East (78.15o) Area: 278 ha Altitude: 0-0 m Site description 36. The Madurai tank, as the name indicates, is located on the outskirts of Madurai city, north of the river Vaigai. The tank is fed by monsoon rains and also by the Periyar-Vaigai irrigation system, located about 2 km from the tank. This irrigation system is on the two rivers, Periyar in Kerala and the seasonal Vaigai. The water is diverted to Madurai tank through channels. The tank contains water till February/March, after which it dries out. Prosopis chilensis and Ipomea mainly dominate the vegetation of the tank, which is infested with Water Hyacinth Eichhornia crassipes. Key biodiversity 37. Avifauna: The site has become significant as the globally threatened Spotbilled Pelican Pelecanus philippensis is present during the monsoon. About 150 Spot-billed Pelicans were reported from this site during April 1997 (Sathasivam 1997). Apart from this, the site harbours several resident and migratory waterfowl. The significant species are Lesser Whistling Duck Dendrocygna javanica, Comb Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos, Cotton Pygmy Goose Nettapus coromandelianus, Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha, Garganey A. querquedula, Northern Shoveller A. clypeata, Common Pochard Aythya ferina, Purple Moorhen Porphyrio porphyrio, Common Coot Fulica atra, Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus, Pheasanttailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus, Little Grebe


122

Tachybaptus ruficollis, Darter Anhinga melanogaster, Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger and Indian Shag P. fuscicollis. 38. Other Key Fauna: As the tank lies close to the city, the site does not have any large mammal of conservation concern. Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 39. Main Threats: Heavy drainage flow from the city; Dumping of wastage in the tank; Human over population; Fishing by explosives. 40. As the tanks are close to Madurai City, there is heavy traffic on the roads surrounding the Vandioor tank, while Kunnathur is slightly inside and hence comparatively undisturbed. Local conservationists have given a proposal to the Forest Department to declare the 2 tanks together as a bird sanctuary. According to Sathsivam (1997), poachers use explosives for fishing. IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate














Threat Level 1



fishing & harvesting aquatic resources - unintentional effects: large scale

happening now



high


work and other activities

happening now



low

Pollution domestic & urban waste water - run-off

happening now



medium

Pollution garbage & solid waste happening now



high






Habitats



-

For further information about the habitat classification please click here. Land use



water management -



124

IN224: Pulicat Lake

Central coordinates: 13o 40' 0" North (13.67o) 80o 10' 59" East (80.18o) Area: 60,000 ha Altitude: 0-10 m IBA Criteria met: A1, A4iii (2004) Area: 60,000 ha

Protection status:



2014 very high favourable high

Site description 41. Pulicat lake is an extensive brackish to saline lagoon with associated marshes and a massive freshwater to brackish swamp to the north. There are two connections with the sea; in general, sea water enters the lagoon through the channel at the northern end of Sriharikota Island, and flows back into the Bay of Bengal through the channel at the southern end. The backwaters attract large congregations of the Greater Phoenicopterus ruber and Lesser P. minor flamingos, Spot-billed or Grey Pelican Pelecanus philippensis, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Grey Heron Ardea cinerea, and species of ducks, teals, terns, gulls and waders. Pulicat is the third most important wetland for migratory shorebirds on the eastern board of India. Sriharikota Island, well protected as it is the satellite launching station of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has remnants of Tropical Dry Evergeen Forest of considerable botanical interest (Suryanarayana et al. 1989, 1998). On the other islands in the lake, where protection is negligible, the exotic Prosopischilensis has invaded many areas (Scott 1989). In the elevated mudflats, succulent halophytes, such as Arthrocnemum indicus, Sesuvium portulacastrum, Salicornia brachiata, Suaeda maritima, S. monoica and S. nudiflora occur. Submerged macrophytes include species of Enteromorpha, Hypnea, Ulva, Halophila and Enhalus (Oswin 1987). Key biodiversity 42. Avifauna: Pulicat Lake is an extremely important area for a variety of resident and Palaearctic migratory waterfowl. The lagoon supports significant populations of Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis. A total of 88 species of birds has been recorded from Pulicat Bird Sanctuary during a

BNHS study (Rao and Mohapatra 1993). During the mid-winter waterfowl count in 1988, 83,000 waterfowl were counted in the Sanctuary. However, during 1991 and 1992, the numbers were 38,722 and 10,902 respectively (Rao and Mohapatra 1993). The abundance of waterfowl fluctuates mainly with the prevailing water regime. This site has been selected as an IBA on the basis of its population of Spot-billed Pelican (Criteria A1) and waterfowl congregation (Criteria A4iii). Pulicat is the major foraging ground of pelicans that breed in Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, an IBA, less than 20 km away (Manakadan and Kannan 2003). The lagoon in Pulicat Lake is one of the two major wintering grounds in southeast India for shorebirds (Prater et al. 1977). Due to its vastness, only a rough estimate of the wader population is possible (Rao and Mohapatra 1993). Many waders are likely to occur above their 1% geographical population threshold. Therefore this site would qualify for A4i criteria. Most of the waders are distributed over the extensive mudflats along the Sriharikota-Sulurpet road and near Tada in the southwest part of the lagoon. The BNHS has conducted ringing camps in this area, and a notable recovery was that of a Curlew Sandpiper Calidris testacea with a Polish ring. Subsequently, it was found that the bird had been banded in the Arctic Circle region of Russia (Rao and Mohapatra 1993). Taher and Pittie (1989) have prepared a checklist of birds of Andhra Pradesh. During ringing at Pulicat Lake in 1990-91, seven birds were added to the bird list of Andhra Pradesh (Rao and Mohapatra 1994). Interesting among them are the Large Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii, Knot Calidris canutus, Eastern Knot C. tenuirostris and Black Tern Chlidonias niger. Pulicat Lake also provides suitable feeding conditions for the two species of flamingos. In October 2002, more than 2,000 Greater Flamingos were seen there. 43. Other Key Fauna: The mammalian fauna includes the Jungle Cat Felis chaus, Golden Jackal Canis aureus, Wild Boar Sus scrofa, Small Indian Mongoose Herpestesauropunctatus and Monitor Lizard Varanus bengalensis. 44. Recently, a dead Leopard Panthera pardus was found, trapped in the slush in the lake. This was the first record of Leopard from Pulicat Lake (Kannan and Manakadan in press). Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 45. Main Threats: Fishing activities; Illegal Prawn farming; Industrial development on the shores of the lagoon; Siltation. More than 1,00,000 people live in 52 villages around the borders and islands of Pulicat Lake. The southernmost end of the lagoon is near the metropolis of Chennai, which burdens it with additional ‘developmental problems’. Due to these and other factors, Pulicat Lake faces a number of threats. The fishing community in Pulicat Lake numbers around 30,000, spread over 50 settlements. An average of c. 1200 tonnes of fish is harvested each year. Sixty percent of the catch is made up of prawns, 23% of mullets, and the rest largely Clupeioides catfish, Beloniformes and crabs. Since the northern side of the lake dries up in summer, a large part of the fishing ground is not productive throughout the year. Depletion of fish resources due to overfishing, use of destructive fishing gear, and changes in the hydrology have resulted in conflicts among fishermen, especially between the fishermen of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Another problem related to fisheries is the conversion of land for prawn aquaculture since 1993, some of which were/are in the sanctuary area. Prawn farms are largely concentrated around Durgarajpatnam, and as of 1994, there were about 32 parties guilty of raising aqua farms illegally in the precincts of the Sanctuary (Ramesh 1994, Panini 1996). The area of Pulicat Lake in Tamil Nadu faces greater threats than those in Andhra Pradesh. The 630MW North Chennai Thermal Power Station (NCTPS), the Ennore Satellite Port project, and a proposed petrochemical park are major threats to the lake’s ecosystem. Thousands of acres of land have been cleared for three projects that will progressively damage the ecosystem, stretching across 40 km, from Ennore (20 km north of Chennai) to Pulicat. The North Chennai Thermal Power Station (NCTPS) draws 44 lakh litres of fresh water from the Ennore Creek, lets out hot coolant water into the Buckingham Canal, and discharges toxic fly ash, in the form of slurry, into the lagoon. This has resulted in an increase of temperatures of 5 °C at the outlets. Despite precipitators and chemical filters, the fly ash contains toxic elements such as arsenic, cadmium, mercury, lead, manganese, fluorine and beryllium. In Athipattu village, 10 km from NCTPS, the contamination of saltpans has forced the people to give up their occupation. Fly ash is especially harmful as it can be inhaled and leads to permanent respiratory disorders, dermatitis, asthma, bronchitis and cancer. The

126

silica in fly ash could cause silicosis. The site of the Ennore Satellite Port falls in Category I (No- Development Zone) of the Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) classification. The port, a sheltered harbour facility, when fully operational, is expected to handle about 16.12 tonnes of coal, which is the daily requirement for the NCTPS and the thermal power stations at Mettur. The construction of the breakwaters for the port has caused the sea to ingress 50 m into the mainland that separates the Pulicat lagoon system and the sea. This has caused severe water erosion at Koraikuppam and eight other fishing hamlets in the Pazhaverkadu area, which form an island, with the sea to its east, and the lagoon to the west. This island is home to a fishing community more than 20,000 strong. The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) is acquiring 2,900 ha for the proposed Rs. 600 million petrochemicals industrial complex. It is estimated that the proposed complex would require 45 million litres of water per day, an amount that would seriously deplete coastal aquefers. IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate




White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis

CR non-breeding

2004 present A1

Greater Spotted Eagle Clanga clanga

VU winter 2004 present A1



A4iii






2014 very high favourable high





Threat Level 1 Threat Level 2

Timing Scope Severity Result

Transportation and service corridors

shipping lanes

happening now



very high

Condition of habitat (state)

Habitat Habitat Detail

Reference Area (ha)

Actual Area (ha)

% of habitat remaining

% of carrying capacity (overall)

Result

Wetlands (inland)

0 0 good (> 90%) good (> 90%) near

favourable


Conservation Designation

Management Planning Conservation Action Result

Whole area of site A comprehensive and The conservation measures high









(>90%) covered by appropriate conservation designation

appropriate management plan exists that aims to maintain or improve the populations of qualifying bird species

needed for the site are being comprehensively and effectively implemented


Protected Area



Pulicat Lake Sanctuary 15,367 protected area contained by site 15,367

Habitats


Forest Dry evergreen forest (tropical) -

Coastline Lagoons -

Wetlands (inland)

-

Land use


urban/industrial/transport -



128

IN275: Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary

Country/territory: India Central coordinates: 10o 18' 0" North (10.30o) 79o 50' 59" East (79.85o) Area: 37,733 ha Altitude: 0-3 m IBA Criteria met: A1, A4i, A4iii (2004) Area: 37,733 ha Protection status:




Year of compilation: 2004 Site description Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary is situated on a low promontory on the Coromandel coast in Nagapattinam district. The Great Vedaranyam Swamp stretches for about 48 km from east to west, parallel to the Palk Strait and separated by a sand bank. Its dimensions are about 10 km from north to south, and it is broadest in the east, narrowing to about 8 km in the central part and 6 km at the western end. It is about 11 km from Vedaranyam town. There are only two villages, namely Kodikkarai and Kodikkadu. A motorable road connects the Sanctuary with the nearest town. The control of the area passed from the Revenue Department to the Forest Department in 1907. The forest of Point Calimere Sanctuary has an area of 1,729 ha, comprising of the Kodikkadu Reserve Forest and Kodikkadu Extension Reserve Forest. During 1988, it was proposed to declare Point Calimere Sanctuary as Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary and Bird Sanctuary with a total area of 37,733 ha, including the Great Vedaranyam Swamp and Talaignayar Reserve. This IBA comprises of mangrove forest and lagoon in the Muthupet-Adirampattinam, and mudflats interspersed with numerous islets in the Siruthalaikkadu-Kodikkarai area. The IBA also encompasses Tropical Dry Evergreen Forest and low-lying coastal grazing lands. Five freshwater channels empty into the Swamp, most of which have running water only during the monsoon. The Korayar river confluences with the Mullipallam lagoon in the west. The Swamp is demarcated to the north by an artificial bund. There is a 30 m wide belt of mangrove vegetation. The area has variable rainfall regimes, and is not typical of tropical monsoon climate. The northeast monsoon is the main contributor to this area, though some rainfall occurs during the southwest monsoon. The winds are dry, but cause low-pressure depressions in the Bay of Bengal, resulting in cyclonic storms on the mainland (Daniel and Rao 1988-1991). Key biodiversity Avifauna: The IBA is an extremely important staging and wintering ground for migratory birds. Remarkable among them are flamingos, ducks, waders, gulls and terns. It is also a vital foraging


ground for several species. It harbours a large number of migratory waders and flamingos (Ali 1963). A total of 110 species of waterbirds has been recorded from the swamp and saltpans. Of these, 34 are winter migrants from the Palearctic region (Sugathan 1982). According to a census in January 1987, 28,000 Flamingos Phoenicopterus ruberand 1,00,000 Garganey Anas querquedula were recorded. The threatened Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis also occurs here. Manakadan (1992) had recorded 150-250 birds yearly in the late 1980s in the Great Vedaranyam Swamp during regular bird census. About 1,200 pelicans were recorded in the Great Vedaranyam Swamp during October 1999 (Balachandran pers. comm. 2002). Hussain (1976) has recorded Broad-tailed Grass-Warbler or Grassbird Schoenicola Platyura, a globally Vulnerable species. Many species of ducks and waders occur in much above their 1% biogeographical number as determined by Wetlands International (2002). 46. Other Key Fauna: Major mammals include Blackbuck Antilope cervicapra, Spotted Deer or Chital Axis axis, Jackal Canis aureus, Wild Boar Sus scrofa and Black-naped Hare Lepus nigricollis. Large number of feral cattle and feral horses are seen in the Kodiakkadu forests. Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 47. Main Threats: Encroachment; Poaching; Cattle grazing; Collection of firewood; Industrialisation in Great Vedaranyam Swamp. 48. The entire Swamp and the adjoining Muthupet mangrove area should be declared as a single National Park. No major industries should be allowed within the prescribed limits as per the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Existing industries should treat their effluents and should have separate effluent storage tanks. A permanent research station should be established to monitor the habitat status of the migratory as well as the resident birds. Studies should be taken up on the autecology of the important medicinal plants occurring in the forest, so as to preserve this invaluable gene pool. Freshwater inflow should be allowed into the Swamp, this would help to provide a healthier habitat for migratory waterbirds. To reduce overgrazing of cattle in the Sanctuary, unregistered animals should be removed from the Sanctuary. Tilling, ploughing and plantation operations should be banned in the open grazing land, as they affect the Blackbuck population. IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate


Garganey Spatula querquedula


Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus



NT resident 2004 present A1, A4i

Spoon-billed Sandpiper Calidris pygmaea

CR winter 2004 present A1

Spotted Greenshank Tringa guttifer

EN winter 2004 present A1



A4iii



Year of assessment Threat score Condition score Action score













130

(pressure) (state) (response)






Threat Level 1




happening now



low



happening now



high



happening now



low



happening now



low


happening now



low


commercial and industrial development

happening now



low





Protected Area Designation Area (ha)

Relationship with IBA

Overlap with IBA (ha)

Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary

Ramsar Site, Wetland of International Importance


37,733

Point Calimere Sanctuary 17,260 protected area contained by site

17,260

Habitats


Forest Mangrove forest (tropical), Dry evergreen forest (tropical) -

Coastline Estuarine waters, Intertidal mud, sand & salt flats, Lagoons, Sand dunes & beaches

-

Artificial -

-





terrestrial

Wetlands (inland)

Coastal lagoons, Intertidal mud, sand or salt flats -

Land use


agriculture -


other -

132

IN261: Chitragudi and Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary IBA Criteria met: A1, A4i (2004) Area: 152 ha Protection status:




Year of compilation: 2004 Site description 49. Chitrangudi (48 ha) and Kanjirankulam (104 ha) Bird Sanctuaries are situated in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, in the villages of the same names. The Sanctuaries are c. 5 km from Mudukulathur and c. 25 km from Paramakudi, in a drought prone area. The floral diversity is very poor and the area seems to be scrub jungle type. The area has been planted with Prosopis chilensis and Acacia nilotica in the villages and around the tanks; the two species were introduced and planted by the Forest Department on a massive scale to sustain firewood collection. Tamarind Tamarindus indicus is the only common tree, seen sporadically on the roads and the tank bunds. Due to the nature of the soil and scanty rainfall, the natural vegetation is sparse. Key biodiversity 50. AVIFAUNA: The site qualifies as an IBA as the threatened Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensisbreeds here. A maximum of 100 birds reportedly breed, i.e 2.5% of the species biogeographic population at the 1% level of 40 birds (Wetlands International 2002). Chitrangudi and Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary are two of the oldest known pelicanries in the state. Since time immemorial, the locals have protected both the pelicanries. In January 1988, in Chitrangudi Sanctuary, 934 Pelicans and 100 nests were found (BirdLife International 2001). Johnson et al. (1993) have seen 700 pelicans in January 1989, and 286 in 1991 in the same tank. Besides the Spot-billed Pelican, the Asian Openbill Anastomus oscitans, Little Egret Egretta garzetta, Large Egret Casmerodius albus, Grey Heron Ardea cinerea, Purple Heron Ardea purpurea, and Indian Pond Heron Ardeola grayii are known to breed in both villages. In Kanjirankulam, Abraham (1973) found Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala breeding on the same trees as pelicans nests were found. During his visit, the nesting colony was on 60 trees, mainly Ficus religiosa, Thespesia populnea and Acacia arabica. He also found nesting colonies of Oriental White Ibis Threskiornismelanocephalus and Black Ibis Pseudibis papillosa, about 1.6 km away from Kanjirankulam. 51. Other Key FauNA: Due to the presence of scrub jungle and surrounding agricultural fields, the vegetation cover does not permit the presence of large or medium sized mammals. Pressure/threats to key biodiversity Main Threats: Poaching; Encroachment. 52. While poaching at the nesting site is not a major problem, many adult birds are killed by tribals for food. Traditional nesting trees are dying due to drought and poor rainfall. The tanks need reconstruction of their bunds to collect and store adequate water during the monsoon season to safeguard the nesting trees of the pelican. Forest Department should take remedial measures or alternate ways to protect the trees. Conservation education is needed to inform and motivate the locals in order to restrict the anthropogenic pressure on the avifauna. IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate


Spot-billed Pelican NT resident 2004 present A1, A4i


Pelecanus philippensis














happening now



low



happening now



high

Climate change and severe weather

drought happening now



high





Protected Area Designation Area (ha)


Kanjirankulam Sanctuary 104 protected area contained by site

104

Chitrangudi Sanctuary 48 protected area contained by site

48

Habitats



-

Shrubland

-

Artificial - terrestrial

-

Land use






134

agriculture -


water management -

Central coordinates: 9o 19' 48" North (9.33o) 78o 28' 59" East (78.48o) Area: 152 ha Altitude: 15-0 m

IN251: Silent Valley National Park

Country/territory: India IBA Criteria met: A1, A2, A3 (2004) Area: 8,952 ha Protection status:



2013 low favourable high

Central coordinates: 11o 7' 54" North (11.13o) 76o 25' 46" East (76.43o) Area: 8,952 ha Altitude: 658-2383 m

Site description 53. Silent Valley is a rectangular tableland enclosed by a high contiguous ridge along its northern and eastern borders, and by a lower, irregular ridge along its western and southern borders. It is flanked by steep escarpments to the south and west, which descend some 1,000 m to the plains of Kerala, and by sheer cliffs to the north and east which rise a further 1,000 m to the Upper Nilgiri Plateau. Kunthipuzha river flows southwards through the entire 15 km length of the Park, dividing it into a narrow western sector of less than 2 km and a wider eastern sector of 5 km. The valley is drained by five main tributaries of the Kunthipuzha, which originate near the eastern border and flow westwards. Only a few minor streams drain into the Kunthipuzha from the western sector. The river is uniformly shallow, with no floodplains. Its bed falls from 1,861 m to 900 m over a distance of 12 km, the last 8 km being particularly level, with a fall of only 60 m. Kunthipuzha is one of the less torrential rivers of the Western Ghats, with a pesticide-free catchment area. The soil is blackish and slightly acidic in the evergreen forests, where there is good accumulation of organic matter. The underlying


136

rock in the area is granite with schists and gneiss, which give rise to the loamy laterite soils on slopes (Anon., undated, 1981, 1982; Unnikrishnan, 1989). The total area is 8,951.65 ha. The Park is contiguous to the proposed Karimpuzha National Park (22,500 ha) in the north and to Mukurthi National Park (7,846 ha), Tamil Nadu, in the northeast. The altitude ranges from 658 m to 2,383 m (Balakrishnan 1984). Most of the Park lies between 880 m and 1,200 m (Anon. undated). High peaks such as Anginda (2,383 m), Sispara (2,206 m) and Kozhipara (1,904 m) occur in the northern part of the Park. Four main types of vegetation can be recognized: Tropical Evergreen Forest, Subtropical Hill Forest, Shola forest and grasslands which are restricted to the narrow sector west of the Kunthipuzha and to the higher slopes and hill tops in the eastern sector. Seven new plant species have been recorded from the Silent Valley (Manilal 1988), as well as many rare, endemic and economically valuable species, such as Cardamom Elettaria cardamomum, Pepper Piper nigrum, Yam Dioscorea spp., various beans Phaseolus spp., a pest-resistant strain of Rice (species unknown), and 110 plant species of importance in Ayurvedic medicine (Nair et al. 1980). Key biodiversity 54. Avifauna: Kerala’s avifauna is well represented within the Park. Two hundred species of birds have been recorded (Jayson 1990, Basheer and Nameer 1990). Four globally threatened species are found here. The Nilgiri Wood-Pigeon Columba elphinstonii is an uncommon bird (Zacharias and Gaston 1999, BirdLife International 2001), even in this well protected forest. The Broadtailed Grassbird Schoenicola platyura has a wide range in the Western Ghats but is uncommon everywhere. Santharam (1996) found it in the Poochipara area in December 1990. The site lies in the Western Ghats Endemic Bird Area (EBA) (Stattersfield et al. 1998). In this IBA, all the 16 endemic or restricted range species have been recorded. Flocks of Wynaad Laughingthrush Garrulax delesserti are sighted up to an elevation of 1,700 m. Above that, it seems to be the range of the Nilgiri Laughingthrush Garrulax cachinnans. Vijayan et al. (1999) also found this species in the upper reaches. Both the species confine themselves strictly to their respective altitudinal ranges. Nilgiri Flycatcher Eumyias albicaudata, a Near Threatened species, is common in the foothills of the National Park. Silent Valley is not only a paradise for local species, but it also host a large number of forest migrants in winter, from the Himalaya and beyond. Some of the forest birds noted are Tickell’s Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus affinis, Large-billed Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus magnirostris, Western Crowned Warbler Phylloscopus occipitalis, Rufous-tailed Flycatcher Muscicapa ruficauda, Brown-breasted Flycatcher Muscicapa muttui and Blueheaded Rock-thrush Monticola cinclorhynchus. This site lies in Biome-10 (Indian Peninsula Tropical Moist Forest) where 15 species are considered as representative of this biome’s assemblage. Nine of these species have been recorded from Silent Valley NP. Only those species which live in comparatively drier habitats are not found here, for example, the Small Greenbilled Malkoha or Blue-faced Malkoha Phaenicophaeus viridirostris, a bird of scrub and secondary jungle, and the Jerdon’s Nightjar Caprimulgus atripennis, a bird found in scrub forests, edges of moist forests and secondary growth. Silent Valley NP has been selected as an IBA as it qualifies three criteria (A1, A2, and A3) and more importantly, it has one of the finest undisturbed forests left in the Western Ghats. This famous forest has significant populations of many threatened and endemic birds. It also adjoins another IBA, Mukurthy NP in Tamil Nadu. 55. Other Key Fauna: The faunal diversity is very high and includes a number of endemic and threatened species. Some 26 species of mammals, excluding bats, rodents and insectivores, have been recorded (Balakrishnan 1984). Notable species include Nilgiri Langur Trachypithecus johni, Lion-tailed Macaque Macaca silenus, Tiger Panthera tigris, Leopard P. pardus, Jerdon’s Palm Civet Paradoxurus jerdoni, Wild Dog Cuon alpinus, Nilgiri Marten Martes gwatkinsi, Asian Elephant Elephas maximus, Gaur Bos gaurus and Nilgiri Tahr Hemitragus hylocrius, some of which are endemic to the Western Ghats. Estimates of large mammal populations are provided by Balakrishnan (1984). Six species of bats have been recorded, of which Peshwa’s bat Myotis peshwa and Hairy-winged bat Harpiocephalus harpia are considered rare. Amphibians total 19 species, lizards 9 species and snakes 11 species (Kerala Forest Department 1990). Notable records are two fishes (Holaloptera pillae and Garra menimi) and two amphibians (the primitive caecilian Ichthyophis longicephalus and Malabar tree toad Nectophryne tuberculosa). 56. Lepidoptera comprise about 100 species of butterflies and about 400 of moths, of which 13

are endemic to South India, and now have very restricted distributions, mostly within the Western Ghats (Mathew 1990). Pressure/threats to key biodiversity Main Threats: Grazing; Firewood collection. 57. A large number of people in the Mannarghat plains depend directly on the perennial flow of water in Kunthipuzha. The whole cultural fabric of these people is woven around the fact that this river retains its flow even in the harshest of summer. Bharathapuzha, which receives the water from Kunthipuzha is dry, except for this lean flow through the summer heat. The greatest threat to the forest of Silent Valley has been warded off with the abandonment of the hydroelectric power project and dam and the consequent declaration of the National Park. At present, forest fires have assumed a major role as the destroyer of prime forest. Uncontrolled tourism activities can equally well destroy the forest environment. A constant check on all these major factors is essential to the well being of the National Park. BA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate



VU resident 2004 present A1, A2, A3










NT resident 2004 present A2, A3

Garrulax cachinnans NR resident 2004 present A1, A2, A3

Garrulax jerdoni NR resident 2004 present A2, A3





Brachypteryx major NR resident 2004 present A1, A2, A3









































138





2013 low favourable high


No State assessed by unset

Accuracy of information medium


Threat Level 1 Threat Level 2

Timing Scope Severity Result



happening now


no or imperceptible deterioration

low

Condition of habitat (state)

Habitat Habitat Detail

Reference Area (ha)

Actual Area (ha)

% of habitat remaining

% of carrying capacity (overall)

Result

Forest

0 0 good (> 90%) good (> 90%) near favourable


Conservation Designation

Management Planning Conservation Action Result

Whole area of site (>90%) covered by appropriate conservation designation

A comprehensive and appropriate management plan exists that aims to maintain or improve the populations of qualifying bird species

The conservation measures needed for the site are being comprehensively and effectively implemented

high


Protected Area

Designation Area (ha) Relationship with IBA Overlap with IBA (ha)

Western Ghats

World Heritage Site


8,952

Silent Valley National Park 8,952 is identical to site 8,952

Habitats


Forest

-

Grassland

-

Land use


forestry -






IN271: Kullur Sandai Reservoir

Country/territory: India IBA Criteria met: A1 (2004) Area: 1,362 ha Protection status: Central coordinates: 9o 33' 29" North (9.56o) 78o 0' 34" East (78.01o) Area: 1,362 ha Altitude: 80-0 m




Year of compilation: 2004 Site description 58. The Kullur Sandai Reservoir is located in Aruppukottai Taluka of Virudunagar district, about 8 km along the Palavanatham road. It is about 80 km southwest of Madurai. The climate of this region is semiarid tropical monsoon type, with high temperature and low humidity. It receives scanty rainfall, with an annual average of just 800 mm. The reservoir receives most of the rainfall during the northeast monsoon from October to December. It also receives inflows from the Khowsika river, which originates in the Western Ghats. The Vallikulam stream also flows into the Reservoir during the monsoon. Kullur Sandai Reservoir has a waterspread of 1,361 ha. The Public Works and the Fisheries Departments protect the dam and undertake measures for storing water and also for fish culture. Apart from the Kullur Sandai Reservoir, there are other irrigation reservoirs in the area (Anaikootam, Vembakottai and Golwarpatti). Pelicans and other birds move between these various waterbodies according to the availability of water. The dam and its environs are rich in aquatic vegetation, with tall and medium Borassus flabellifer trees along the banks. The fringes have been invaded by Ipomoea carnea. The reservoir is fortunately free of water hyacinth. Key biodiversity 59. Avifauna: Kullur Sandai Reservoir qualifies IBA criteria A1, as it holds a significant number of globally threatened Spot-billed Pelicans Pelecanus philippensis. During the Asian Waterfowl Census in January 1987, at least 32 Spot-billed Pelicans were recorded (Johnson et al. 1993). In recent years,


140

the number of Pelicans appears to have increased, as 1,670 were recorded during the pelican survey in September 2002 (Manakadan and Kannan 2003). The 1% biogeographic population threshold of this species is 40 (Wetlands International 2002). This IBA also harbours several other species during winter, such as the Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis, Common Coot Fulica atra, Northern Shoveller Anasclypeata, Gadwall Anas strepera, Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha, Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger, Indian Shag Phalacrocorax fuscicollis, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Little Egret Egretta garzetta, and Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber. The total population of waterbirds sometimes exceeds 10,000. 60. OTHER KEY FAUNA: The Fisheries Department has almost eliminated the native fish community by the introduction of commercial species of carps such as Catla catla, Labeo rohita, Cerrhina mrigala, Channa spp. as well as catfish. The water of the dam is rich in phytoplankton, zooplankton, and submerged vegetation. Because of the rich growth of plankton and heavy stock of fish, pelicans and other waterfowl congregate. This brings them in direct conflict with the Fisheries Department. Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 61. Main Threats: Land accreditation; Influx of heavily polluted drainage water; Poaching pressure; Discharge from Cement Industry. 62. This IBA site is under great pressure from commercial fishery. According to the Fisheries Department, fish-eating birds such as Cormorants and Spot-billed Pelicans inflict heavy loss on the commercial fish culture. Their staff regularly chase away the birds, especially Cormorants. In many places, the bund has been broken due to neglect. It is in urgent need of repair and strengthening, to enable storage of more water. The weed Ipomoea carnea is spreading fast and if left uncontrolled it poses a threat to the ecology of the area. In order to encourage nesting of Pelicans, we suggest that Barringtonia sp. and Acacia nilotica trees should be planted on small artificial islands. These trees would also serve as roosting sites for other birds. One of the biggest problems is that the Virudunagar Municipal Corporation drains polluted water and city sewage into Kullur Sandai Dam. This not only results in eutrophication, but also brings in weeds such as Ipomoea and Water Hyacinth. Steps should be taken to minimise or divert the drainage elsewhere. In addition, appointment of forest personnel is essential to provide adequate protection to the birds. IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate


Spot-billed Pelican NT resident 2004 present A1











Threat Level 1




fishing & harvesting aquatic resources - unintentional effects: large scale

happening now



high



happening now



low


hunting & collecting terrestrial animals - persecution/control

likely in short term (within 4 years)



low


work and other activities happening now



low


invasive non-native/alien species/diseases - named species

happening now



medium

Pollution domestic & urban waste water - run-off

happening now



high


happening now



low




Habitats



-

Land use


agriculture -



water management -


142

IN269: Kunthangulam Bird Sanctuary Country/territory: India IBA Criteria met: A1, A4i (2004) Area: 129 ha Protection status:




Year of compilation: 2004 Site description 63. The Koonthangulam Bird Sanctuary is located in Naguneri Taluka of Tirunelveli district between Moolakaraipatti and Kariandi. It is about 20 km from Tirunelveli town. It is a rain and river-fed freshwater tank, and receives water from the Manimuthar river. The globally threatened Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis breeds here, along with other birds. It is one of the oldest known pelicanries in India, having existed for 200 years or more. Rhenius first reported this pelicanry in 1906 (Rhenius 1907). The villagers believe that the birds that come to Koonthangulam are harbingers of good luck and their yearly arrival ensures good rainfall. They also benefit from the rich guano deposited in the breeding colonies. This is used to fertilize the fields. Guano-rich tank water is used for irrigation. Koonthangulam (also transcribed as Koondakulam) has a large tank within the village precints, and several smaller tanks scattered in the vicinity. These waterbodies and the fields are the main foraging grounds for birds. Koonthangulam is basically an agricultural area, so there is no forest as such. Acacia nilotica has been planted in about 35.5 ha. This is where most of the birds nest. Key biodiversity 64. Avifauna: The pelicanry at Koonthangulam is quite famous and commented upon by various naturalists (e.g. Rhenius 1907, Webb-Peploe 1945, Wilkinson 1961, Nagulu and Rao 1983, Kumar 1993 and Thomas et al. 2000). In the early 1990s, about 1000 Spot-billed Pelicans were recorded (Anon. 1993). This constitutes more than 8% of the biogeographic population. During a pelican survey in January 2003, only about 452 Spot-billed Pelican were recorded breeding. BirdLife International (2001) has listed records of pelicans from 1906 up till 1993 from this site. Besides the Spot-billed Pelican, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala breeds in the village in large numbers, sometimes on the trees inside private property. In some years, Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber also built nest mounds, though breeding has not been confirmed. Asian Openbill Anastomus oscitans, Oriental White or Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus, Black Ibis Pseudibis papillosa, Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus, Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia, Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger, Pond Heron Ardeola grayii, Grey Heron Ardea cinerea, Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax, Darter Anhinga melanogaster, Little Egret Egrettagarzetta, Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis, Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus, Northern Pintail Anas acuta, Northern Shoveller Anas clypeata, Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis, Common Coot Fulica atra, White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus, Indian Moorhen Gallinula chloropus, Purple Moorhen Porphyrio porphyrio and various species of waders are also seen here, many in numbers greater than their 1% biogeographic population threshold. This IBA site is also famous for its vast flocks of Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellussometimes up to 1,000 are seen together, foraging in the inundated crop fields or flying from one foraging area to another. 65. Other Key Fauna: Most of the smaller mammals of rural areas are seen in this site, such as Golden Jackal Canis aureus, Common Palm Civet Paradoxurus hermaphroditus, and Jungle cat Felis chaus. Pressure/threats to key biodiversity 66. Koonthangulam is about 65 km from Kanyakumari, a major tourist area where millions of people, especially school groups come every year. Koonthangulam also receives about 15,000 Indian


tourists and about 100 foreigners. It can become a major centre for environmental education for students and public. However, as the villagers are very sensitive to the protection of ‘their’ birds, crass tourism should be avoided. Regulated guided tours, watching birds from selected points and an interpretation centre would help in conveying the message of environmental education. A system should be developed so that at least half of the revenue from tourism should go to village panchayat (council) for the development of social infrastructure. Local youth could be trained as guides. As the birds forage in agricultural fields, it is absolutely necessary to monitor the pesticide use in the area. Regular scientific monitoring of birds, both breeding and wintering species, is also required. It is also recommended that this IBA site should be kept natural, and no attempt should be made to ‘beautify’ the place. Nothing is more beautiful that a hungry pelican chick being fed by its parent, or a flock of 500 Glossy Ibis going to roost. IBA Criteria Year of most recent IBA criteria assessment: 2004 Populations of IBA trigger species



Population estimate


Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus



NT resident 2004 present A1, A4i













recreational activities happening now



high

Pollution agricultural & forestry effluents - herbicides and pesticides

happening now



high





Protected Area Designation Area (ha) Relationship with IBA Overlap with IBA (ha)

Kuthankulam Sanctuary 129 is identical to site 129






144

Habitats


Wetlands (inland)

-

Land use


water management -

Country/territory: India Central coordinates: 8o 28' 12" North (8.47o) 77o 43' 48" East (77.73o) Area: 129 ha Altitude: 0-0 m


Annexure 9: Details of Sample Public Consultations A9.I Village wise List of the participants and their occupation are given in Tables A9.1-5 below. List of 16 1public consultations are listed below for reference. Table A9.1 Consultation at

S1 Virudhunagar (2x1500MVA) 765/400

SNo Village Tehsil/Mandal

Districts Distance from the District Head Quarters

Number of Participants

1 Valayapatti Virudhu nagar Virudhu nagar

Virudhu nagar 17

SNo Name of the Participants Occupation

Name of the Village: Valayapatti

1 Mr. S Pedamal Agriculture

2 Mr. S Sodigiraj Agriculture

3 Mr. T Kuttimuryan Agriculture

4 Mr .P. Perumal Agriculture

5 Mr. A Sabbiga Agriculture

6 Mr. A Kudbalingam Agriculture

7 Mr. P.Ponna Samy Agriculture

8 Mr. P Kuttiyam Agriculture

9 Mr. S Puniswany Business

10 Mr. B.Solan Agriculture

11 Mr. T. Sivasuriyam Agriculture

12 Mr. M Muthaya Agriculture

13 Mr. G .Rajsekar Driver

14 Mr. V .Gopal Agriculture

15 Mr. A.K Arruppa Swamy Driver

16 Mr. D.Karruppa Swamy Agriculture

17 Mr. Enavara Swamy Agriculture

Table A9.2: Consultation at

S2 Ottapidaram (2x500MVA) + (2x200MVA) 400/230/110 kV

SNo Village Panchayat Districts Distance from the District Head Quarters Number of Participants

1


Name of the Village:

1 Mr. S Pedamal Agriculture

2 Mr. S Sodigiraj Agriculture

3 Mr. T Kuttimuryan Agriculture

4 Mr .P. Perumal Agriculture

5 Mr. A Sabbiga Agriculture

6 Mr. A Kudbalingam Agriculture

7 Mr. P.Ponna Samy Agriculture

8 Mr. P Kuttiyam Agriculture

1 The detailed consulation formats for 56 locations is available on request from PPTA survey team

engaged separately under the project.

146


9 Mr. S Puniswany Business

10 Mr. B.Solan Agriculture

11 Mr. T. Sivasuriyam Agriculture

12 Mr. M Muthaya Agriculture

13 Mr. G. Rajsekar Driver

14 Mr. V .Gopal Agriculture

15 Mr. A. K Arruppa Swamy Driver

16 Mr. D. Karruppa Swamy Agriculture

17 Mr. Enavara Swamy Agriculture

Table A9.3: Consultation at Subproject T1.1

765 kV double circuit line Virudhunagar - Coimbatore 242

SNo Village Panchayat

Districts

Distance from the District Head Quarters

Number of Participant

s

1

Qs sl no

Name of Component/ Site


Location Name of village

1 765 kV DC-TL from Virudhunagar to 765 kV SS Coimbatore

7 kavutham Palayam Kavutham Palayam

S.No. Name Occupation Signature

1 Mr C Ramesh Kumar Student

2 Mr K. Arunach Alam Agriculture

3 Mr. A Viswanath Power loom worker

4 Mr. S Sanjnagan Agriculture

5 Mr. G. Vilegiri Power loom worker

6 Mr. A. Planiswamy Pvt.Service

7 Mr. J. Janaradha Pvt.Service

Qnnrs sl no


Number of Participant Location Name of village


7 At bus stand /Public place Sirukalanji


1 Mrt. P Mahender Business

2 Mr V. Anand Service

3 Mr. V Krishanan Pvt. Service

4 Mr. A Sathivel Pvt.Service

5 Mr. R Servanan Driver

6 Mr. C Tanga muttu Agriculture

7 Mr. K Tangavel Agriculture

Qnnrs sl no





8 At the grampanchayat premises

Padiyaandi Palayam


1 Mr. Vel Swamy Agriculture

2 Mr. K. Alagumuthu Agriculture

3 Mr.P Karthikeyan Agriculture

4 Mrs P Minakshi H/W

5 Mrs. S Kavitha H/W

6 Mrs. G Geetha H/W

7 Mr. S Murti Farmer

8 Mr. Shiva Chezian Hotel Business

Qnnrs sl no




7 Public place near the primary school

G.Nadupatti

148

Qs sl no





1 Mr. R Raman Bus.conductor

2 Mr. k. Krishanan Agriculture

3 Mr. S Parma Swamy Forman Eb

4 Mr. S Parimal Swamy Retd. Eb

5 Mr. G Govind Student

6 Mr. Kuppa Swamy Agriculture /labour

7 Mr. R Ramanan Agri/labour

Qnnrs sl no




6 Near the temple premises/Bus stand

Pudhukkittat


1 Mr. S Bala Muruggan Pvt. Service

2 Mr. M Raja Pandiyan Bore well operator

3 Mr. P Muniswamy Govt.service

4 Mrs. Bhagya Lakshmi H/W, Shop

5 Mrs. Pandi Ammal H/W, Shop

6 Mrs. V Lakshmi Agriculture /labour

Qnnrs sl no




7 at the bus stand/at temple premise

V.Kovilpatti


1 Mr. R Mani Farmer

2 Mr. P Sunder Farmer

3 Mr. M Karuppa Swamy Farmer

4 Mr. Selvan Farmer

5 Mr. C Pandi Farmer

6 Mr. Moka Pandi Agri

7 Mr. Rama Swamy Agri

Qnnrs sl no




6 At ex.president resident and bus stand, tea shop

Vagaikulam


1 Mr. Pandi Farmer

2 Mr. Mahesh Student

3 Mr. T Shiva Priya Student

4 Mr. C.Kandiban Agri

5 Mrs R. Radha Tea shop

6 Mr. R. Pandi Agri labour

Qnnrs sl no




8 At temple premises S.Gobalapuram


Qs sl no




1 Mr. P Senthil Kumar Pvt. service

2 Mr. Narayan Swamy Farmer

3 Mrs. Vatslya Agri

4 Mrs. Analakshi Agri

5 Mrs. Anitha H/W

6 Mrs. Saroja H/W

7 Mrs. Geetha H/W

8 Mrs. Vishnu Priya Govt. service

Qnnrs sl no




7 Public place/near the temple premises

Lalapuram


1 Mr. R Jay Rachangan Farmer

2 Mr. A Alagar Swamy Agriculture

3 Mr. R Caokappa Rediyar

Agriculture

4 Mr. A shri vasan Agriculture /Labour

5 Mr. R Pandiammal Agriculture /Labour

6 Mr. K Karthiresan Agriculture /Labour

7 Mr. A S Alagar Swamy Agriculture /Labour

Qnnrs sl no




6 Public place /Bus stand Valayapatti


1 Mr. J Periya Swamy Driver

2 Mr. R Kuttiyan Farmer

3 Mr. A Nalla Muthu Student

4 Mr. K Kuttiyan Student

5 Mr. P Karthik Driver

6 Mr. Chinna cattering Work

150

Table A9.4: List of Participants for Consultation for Subproject

T1.2 400 kV double circuit line Virudhunagar - Kayathar 73

SNo Village Panchayat Districts

Distance from the District

Head Quarters Number of

Participants

1

VIRUDHUNAGAR TO KAYATHAR

Qnnrs sl no

Name of Component/ Site Number of Participant Location Name of village

11 400 kV DC - TL from Virudhuagar 765 kV SS to Kayathar 400 kV SS

8 At the hotel near the bus stand

Ayyanaruthu


1 Mr. B.Abdul Farmer

2 Mr. S.Pulliya Farmer

3 Mr. K Maheshwaran Private job in jio

4 Mr. V Suppaiya Electrician

5 Mr. V Sanmuggiya Farmer

6 Mr. P ganeshan Farmer

7 Mr. T Velpande Farmer

8 Mr. S Shantithan Farmer

Qnnrs sl no



7 Malaipaity - at temple

Malaipatti


1 Mr. O Jay anand Farmer

2 Mr. M Jayveeran Farmer

3 Mr. K Kumaranan Agriculture labour

4 Mr. P Kuttiyan Agriculture labour

5 Mr. D Rajender Farmer

6 Mr. R Boss Farmer

7 Mr. S Kahi raj Farmer

Qnnrs sl no



8 Public place near bus stand

sirukkulam


1 Mr. M Gajendran Agriculture

2 Mr. E Ramamurthi Agriculture

3 Mr. R Adinarayan Agriculture

4 Mr. S Mardisamy Agriculture

5 Mr. N Solaisamy Agriculture

6 Mr. K Velmusayan Agriculture

7 Mr. R Pandiraj Agriculture

8 Mr. R Suburaj Agriculture

Qnnrs sl no



6 Near the bus stand/ tea shop

Lingampatti


1 Mr. P Chantiram Agriculture labour

2 Mr. R Shamigaiya Farmer

3 Mr. S Thangvel Farmer

4 Mr. A Sosail Agriculture labour

5 Mr. A Kovilmuthu Farmer

6 Mr. A Parriyaan Farmer

7 Mr. D John Farmer

8 Mr. S Anal raj Farmer

Qnnrs sl no



8 Aathamappan patti Oddamchathirada


1 Mr.N.Nachimthoo Agri

2 Mr.K.Moothu Swamy carpenter

3 Mr.K Marudhan Agri labour

4 Mr.N Nachiappa Goundar Agri

5 Mrs. P Bhagyamnal Agri labour

6 Mrs.S Velammal Agri labour

7 Mr.A. Muthugatham Agri labour

Mr.K Mani Agri


6 G.Nadupatti Dindigul - west


1 Mr.S Perumal Swamy Retd.

2 Mr.S Parma Swamy Electrician

3 Mr.R.Ramar Bus Contector

4 Mrs.A.Sappammal Agri Labour

5 Mrs.S.Rukmani Agri-Labour H/W

6 Mrs.A. Geetha H/W


7 Near the bus stand. Sivangvinanpuram


1 Mr. V Rahey reddy Business

2 Mr. V Periyasammy Farmer

3 Mr. K Samamurthy Agriculture labour

4 Mr. C Nagarajan Farmer

5 Mr. P Chandran Agriculture labour

6 Mr. Chalayia Agriculture labour

7 Mr. S Algamanisuney Agriculture farmer

152


T1.3 400 kV double circuit line in and out at Virudhunagar for Kamuthi to Thappagundu (proposed) line

Covered in Virudhunagar Line because of small length


T2.1 400 kV double circuit line Ottapidaram - Udangudi 68 km

SNo Village Panchayat

Districts

Distance from the District Head Quarters


s

1 Sakkamal Puram

6


Name of the Village: Kuttampuli

1. R.A. Joseph Retired Army Official

2. S. Durai Raj Business

3. P. Mookendi Agriculture

4. B. Parvesh Agriculture

5. R. Ramanan Pvt Job

6. Krushna Agriculture




Participants

2 Sampadi 6


Name of the Village: Siluvaipuram

1. Muthu Raj Government Clerk

2. Jay Raj Agriculture

3. Ashok Kumar Student

4. Muthu Raman Fishing

5. Peran Padayan Agriculture

6. Sampat Private job




Participants

3 Agaram 6


Name of the Village: Agaram

1. Jeba Singh Private Job

2. Arun Kumar Private Job

3. Jeeya Seelan Agriculture

4. Beniel Student

5. R. Raja Student

6 Mr. Sundaram Farmer

SNo Village Panchayat Districts Distance from

the District Number of

Participants

Head Quarters

4 Ramachandra Puram 7


Name of the Village: Servaikaranmadam

1. Kashi Rajan Driver

2. Mariappan Driver

3. Pulamandan Contractor

4. Guru Raj Driver

5. Mutthu Kumar Labour

6 M. Rama Lingam Labour

7 Viswanathan Driver

Table A9.7: List of Participants for Consultation for Subproject T2.2 400 kV double circuit line Ottapidaram - Kamuthi 72 km

SNo Village Panchayat Districts Distance from the District Head Quarters Number of

Participants

1 Chandiragiri 8


Name of the Village: Chandiragiri

1. Mr Marimurthy Driver/Village Head

2. Mr Sekhar Driver

3. Mr Rahul Student

4. Mr K Kumar Labour

5 Mr. Rahul Labour

6 Mr. radha Krishnan Driver

7 Mr. V. Kumaran Farmer

8 Mr. S. Raman Farmer




Participants

2 O Lakshminarayan puram

6


Name of the Village: O Lakshminarayan puram

1. Mr. Laxmana Perumal Farmer

2. Mr. Gopal Krishnan Service

3. Mrs. R Karuppai Housewife

4. Mr. A. Karuppai Labour

5. Mr. C. Rajan Farmer

6 Mr. Krishnan Farmer




Participants

3 Muthhiyapuram 6


Name of the Village: Muthhiyapuram

154


1. K. Mallapan Farmer

2. B. Alagu raju Farmer

3. P. Reddy Farmer

4. G. Ganeshan Farmer

5. Seethalaxmi Government Servant

6 K. Swami Labour

7 C. Raja Labour

8 D. Vellu Farmer




Participants

4 Nerinjipatti 7


Name of the Village: Nerinjipatti

1. Mr. Subhramaniyam Farmer

2. Velusami Farmer

3. Murugan Farmer

4. Bala Murugan Driver

5. Pakkia Raj Labour

6 Chandran Farmer

7 Muriya Swami Farmer


T2.2 400 kV double circuit line Ottapidaram - Vijayapuri 35

SNo Village Panchaya

t District

s Distance from the District Head

Quarters


s

1 Keelamudiman

7


Name of the Village: Keelamudiman

1. Mr. Joseph Contractor

2. Mr. R. Swami Farmer

3. Mr. B. Amal Raj Labour

4. Mr. M. Swami Labour

5. Mr. Y. Prakashan Labour

6. Mr. R. Ramanan Farmer

7. Mr. Deenakaran Business




Participants

2 Kamanayakkam Patti 8


Name of the Village: Kamanayakkam Patti

1. Mr. J. Moses Farmer

2. Mr. D. Mohan Student

3. Mr. A. Alagapparaj Labour


4. Mr. M. Murugan Labour

5. Mr. A. Daniel Labour

6. Mr. G. Murugan Labour

7. Mr. A. Antony Raj Farmer

8. Mr. R. George Labour




Participants

3 Ottapidaram 8


Name of the Village: Ottapidaram

1. Mr. P. Jayachnadran Private job

2. Mr. S. Bharat Kamal Private job

3. Mr. N. Kartik Student

4. Mr. G. S. Muthhu Farmer

5. Mr. P.Shiva Perumul Farmer

6. Mr. P. Suresh Kumar Private job

7. Mr. M. Sanmurgaraj Private job

8. Mr. A. Murugan Technician


T2.4 230 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Sipcot - Savasapuram line

6 km




Participants

1 Valasamuthiram 5


Name of the Village: Valasamuthiram

1. Mr. Pakil Nadar Retired

2. Mr. Alagu Krishnan Driver

3. Mrs. Selva Rani Tea Stall

4. Mr. Muniandi Agriculture Labour

5. Mr. Ramachandran Agriculture


T2.5 110 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Ottapidaram - Eppothumvendran

5




Participants

1 Silanathan 7


Name of the Village: Silanathan

1. A. Manika Private Job

2. A. Arul Raj Private Job

3. A. Swami Private Job

4. K. Murthy Labour

156


5. P. Rediara Farmer

6. K. Raj Farmer

7. S. Lingam Labour


T2.7 110 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for TTN Auto - T-off Sipcot line

10.5 km




Participants

1


Name of the Village:

1. No data


T2.7 230 kV double circuit line in and out at Ottapidaram for Sipcot - Kavanoor line

10 km




Participants

1 Sinthalakathai 6


Name of the Village: Sinthalakathai

1. Kashi Viswanath Farmer

2. M. Mariappan Retired Government officer

3. J. Mani Driver

4. J. J. Manik raj Retired personnel

5. V.K. Rajan Driver

6. N. Raman Carpenter




Participants

2 Kumarapuram 7


Name of the Village: Sinthalakathai

1. Mr. Mariselvan Private job

2. Mr. Manokaran Farmer

3. Mr. U. Maiyan Business

4. Mr. Ganeshan Farmer

5. Mr. Maheswaran Farmer

6. Mr. C. Munishan Labour

7 Mr. Mkundan Business




Participants

3 Saminathan 7


Name of the Village: Saminathan

1. A. Ramaswami Artisan

2. Mr. Murugan Labour

3. Mr. N. Selvan Service

4. Mr. N. Nallaselvan Agriculture

5. Mr. P. Achari Agriculture

6. Mr. S. Raja Ratnam Labour

7 Mr. C. Shekhanan Student

158

A9.II General Perception and Summary of Consultations are given in Table A9.13 below. Table A9.13

S.no

Name of component/ site

Number of participant

Location Name of village General perception about the project and the awareness about the proposed project.

Is the land irrigated and what are the sources of irrigation?

Loss of residential/commercial structures, if any due to the project

Loss of community life like any market places or community activities to be affected

Protected areas (national park, protected forest, religiously sensitive sites, historical or archaeological sites), if any

Current environmental conditions in the area – air, dust, noise conditions in the area.

Will the project siting adversely impact the water or soil resource in the locality

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

765 kV Double Circuit Line Virudhunagar - Coimbatore


7 Kavutham palayam

Kavutham palayam The local people are not aware about the project, not in favour of this proposed project.

No land is not imigated, fully depends on rain water.

No loss No loss Anamalai tiger reserve, pollachi 275 km, protected forest at 6 km Vijaya manalam village.

Current environmental condation is good.

No air pollution, dust, noise, observed in area.


7 At bus stand /public place

Sirukalanji The local people are not aware about the project -general perception is against the HT line due to loss of farming,land and its value.

No imigation facility. Fully depend on rain. Wells used to collect water and through pump set lift water for imigation.

No loss of residential structure..

No loss of community life.

Anamalai tiger reserve -polachi-285 km protected forest-3km at vijaymangalam.

Very clean no polluction

Accoording the local peoples opinion ground water may startage by the HT line due to earthing of

S.no










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

towers.



Padiyaandi palayam The local people are worry about the proposed project-they have not heared regaring this project.village is closed to the main kangayam city.

Well used for imgation but only in the rainy season.

No loss of residental and community life due to the project.

Anamalai tiger reserve-polachi-100 km, protected forest-25km

Current environmental conditions in the area is clean no air dust noise pollution observed/noticed.

Due to EHV line/tower ground water may goes down.



G.nadupatti The local people are worry about the proposed project-no any objection regarding, the project.

Land is not irrigated fully depend on rain for water,well are used as irrigation after collection of rain water through pump set.

No loss of residentional and community life due to the project.

National park or protected forest are not near the village. More then 150 km from the village. anamalai tiger reserve polachi in

Enviornmental condition is very good no air, dust, noise pollution observed.

No idea/aware about the adversly impect on the water or the soil resourses.

160

S.no










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Coimbatore dist. No sensitive site.


6 Near the temple premises/bus stand

Pudhukkittat The local people have not heared about the project, but not in tower of new HT line already HT line,railway line, NH -existing in the village, distubed the agri and day to day activities.

Not irrigation facility

No less of residential/commercial structure and communication life

Anamalai tiger reserve-200 km no protected forest or secretive site.

By the railway line and nh near the village noise pollution observed but enviormental coundation is clean/good.

No idea about the adverge impects on ground water or on the soil.

6 765 kV DC-TL from Virudhunagar to

7 At the bus stand/at temple premise

V. kovilpatti Local people have not heard regarding the project, not interested in the

Already many HT line going in and near the village,area is paddy field and

Availablity of gound water is very

No loss of any residental and commers

Anamalai tiger reserve -170 km no protected forest near the

Current enviorment condation is very neat and

Wild pig and randiya/deers

S.no










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

765 kV SS Coimbatore

project. dance coconut,fully greenary area.

up.village and pound and chanels are the main sources for irrigation. Land is irrigated by punds, channels, walls

ial and community life due to the towers/HT

village. clean,no air, dust, noise pollution obserbed.

7 765 kV DC-TL from Virudhunagar to 765 kV SS

6 At ex-president resident and bus stand, tea shop

Vagaikulam Local people have not aware before, they don’t want any towers/HT line from this village only from the

Land is irrigated by well pump sets.

No loss of any residential or commersial complex

No loss of any community life due to the HT line of towers.

Anamalai tiger reserve-200 km no any protected forest but due to baren land green area

Current environmental condation in the area like air, dust,

No idea about the adverse impact on the water and soil resourses.

162

S.no










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Coimbatore

outside from west distance.

due to the HT lines

noticed. noise, pollution not observed.


8 At temple premises

S. Gobalapuram Local people have not heared about the project. hands value is very high due to near the NH road both side of the village. fully cultivate land, bore well/well are the main sources of irrigation.

No loss due to the project

No loss of community life due to the tower

Anamalai tiger reserve – 200 km from thois village. no protected forest or sensitive sites near the village

Enviornement condations in the area is clean without any pollution.

This is benefit of the local people that due to tower and line ground water may go down and plantation coconut and other tree may drg.

9 765 kV DC-TL from

7 Public place/near the

Lalapuram Not aware about the project. first time came to

Well and bore well are the main sources of

No loss of residenti

Anamalai tiger reserve-210 km no

Environment condations

No idea regarding the

S.no










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Virudhunagar to 765 kV SS Coimbatore

temple premises

know about the project.no any major objection regarding the HT line.already HT line existing in the village.

irrigation al/commercial structure and any community life due to the tower and HT line

protected forest, no sensitive site near the village.

in the area is very clean, no any kind of pollucation observed.

adversly impacts on the water and soil.


6 Public place /bus stand

Valayapatti Not heard about the HT tower project but aware about the sub-station at Mallayapatti already tower exiting in the village

No imagination facility only well and bore well are the main sourses but depend on the rain water only.

No loss of any residential or commercial complex due to the HT lines

Anamalai tiger reserve 250 km. no any project forest and no sensitive site in the village.

Current environmental conditions are good no any kind of pollution observed

Neem, palm (a few), babool shrubs

400 kV DC - TL from Virudhunagar 765 kV SS to Kayathar 400 kV SS

11 400 kV DC - TLl

8 At the hotel

Ayyanaruthu Not aware of the project, but local

Irigation through bore well.

No loss of

Due to many HT line/tower,

No environme

164

S.no










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

from Virudhunagar 765 kV SS to Kayathar 400 kV SS

near the bus stand

people have not any objection, due to already sub-station and power wind mill established 5 to 10 year before. this is the hub of power

residential/ commercial structure and community life due to the project.

wild birds like peacock and kulbi burent every day. Water level gone down, cancer case increased from the last 5 years in the village.

nt problem,no pollucation observed.

12 400 kV DC - TLl from Virudhunagar 765 kV SS to Kayathar 400 kV SS


Malaipatti Not aware about the project,not willing to support the proposed project.

Land is irrigeted by bore well

No loss of residental/commercial structures due to the project.

No loss of community life.

No protected area, sensitive sites.

Current environment condations is clean in the area, no pollucation in the area.

The project sitting adversly impact on ground water, gone down due to the HT line and towers.

S.no










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 400 kV DC - TLl from Virudhunagar 765 kV SS to Kayathar 400 kV SS


Sirukkulam Disturbance in the farming and safety of major issues not avoided about the project

Bore-well is the only source of irrigation.

No loss of any structures fue to the project.

No loss of any community life.

No such area in the village but, dam or Arjuna river 2 km distance

Current environmental condition is clean without air dust and noise problem.

Ground water goes down due to towers.

14 765 kv.dc-tl from v.nagar to 765 kv.ss coimbatore

Near the bus stand/ tea shop

Lingampatti Not awarded about the project .the project is not benefits for the local people

Through the bore-well only irrigation facility.

No loss of registration /common structures and communty life due to the proposed project.

No protected area, but hill side forest department of pollution observed.

Environmental condition is neat and clean no any kind of pollution is observed.

The local people people think that government water goes down due to the towers earthing

15 400 kV DC - TLl

7 Near the bus

Sivangvinanpuram Local people have not

Irrigated through bore-

No No No Neat and clean

By the earthing of

166

S.no










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

from Virudhunagar 765 kV SS to Kayathar 400 kV SS

stand. awarded about the project. Not in favour of the project from the village want the HT line from the existing time.

well / pump sets.

environmental condition, no air due to noise pollution.

tower, ground water may goes down / impact on farming

S.No



Location

Name of village

Type of trees in the area: Fruit/non fruit/forest/ rare/endangered species etc.

Wild, endemic, endangered animals in the area.

Type of agriculture/crops in the area.

Number of Households in the Village/District, Area populated by ethnic minorities etc.

General socio-economic standing: What are the economic activities? Land use, cropping pattern (Seasonal), types of crops, Average land holding size etc.

What other organizations of a social nature (NGOs/CBOs/ Civil Society) active in the area? Name of these organizations

Any critical issue or concern by the local people regarding the project?

Any other observations

1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

765 kV double circuit line Virudhunagar - Coimbatore

1 765 kV DC-TL from

7 Kavutham Palaya

kavutham Palayam

The local peoplethinking the

Peocock, chitukubi and many

Main crops bajra,

Totol no of household 120+ only

The main economic activities are agriculture,

Single crops only kharif average

No NGO working in this area.the

The local EB official in trying for the

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20


m project will sitting adversly impact on the ground . The main tree are neem, kiker, babool, coconut,water due to HT line and sub-station in the village.

other birds available in large number.

G.nut, Turmeric, maize, coconut

Gounder and Mudaliya communication no any ethic minority living in this village.

powerloom and working in the private company.

landholding 5 acres to 10 acres.

local people are not ready to support the purpose project due to adverise impect by the 1+1 line and sub-station

support of the local people by the local land brokers. The local people demanding high rate of the land and all round development found for the village like route, street, and free power suply in the village.

2 765 kV DC-TL from Virudhun

7 At bus stand /Public place

Sirukalanji Cocone,palm, neem, kikar,

Peocock and wild pig found in plenty in

Cotton, coconut,bazara, turmeric

Total no. HH-100.Nadar and

The main economic activities-Agri + agri labour-70% non agri works -30%.

No working in this village

No critical ossues sitting by the localpeople.

The local people are not in the favour of HT

168

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

agar to 765 kV SS Coimbatore

babools this arera. Kongvilada are the main communities, no ethnic minority living in the village

only one crops in a year in the karif seasons. Average land holding size 5 to 10 areas.

But disturbance in the farming a major issues.

line from the village.They think permanent disturbance in the farming and value of the land become zero. Bad impects on the income.



Padiyaandi Palayam

coconut, babool, neem

No endemic/ endangered animals found in the area.

sigle crops in a year,the main crops are - cotton,chilli,coconut

Total no of HH in the village - 70% Kongovalad and adi dranid are the main community.No ethinic minority.

Main occupation-agri+agri labour and non agri labour in the rice, oil textiles mill.


The village is very closed to main city-Kangayan. The area is under industries/ factory/mill. Land value is very high.

The village is attached with the main taluka city Kangayam.The land value of very high. People are not agree

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Mostly demand for industryes coconut plantation is the main crops and sourses of income,through the town and HT line-adverse impacts any possible.

for the proposed project.They want to sift from the other side where waste land available.



G.Nadupatti

Coconut, palm, neem, shrubs, kikar

Wild rabbit, Wild pig, Peacock

Ground nut,Maize, bajara, chilli, Vegetable

Total no of HH-4000+, Goundars,Nayakkan, Maniyam are the main community.No ethnic majority living in the

Main occupation-agri/agri labour-60%, Non agri labour-40%


No critical issue or conserns by the local people regarding the project they want market rate for the

No objection by the local people regarding the proposed project. The demand any maximum compensati

170

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

area. compensation for the loss ofcoconut trees and others tree as per its value.

on as per open market rate.


6 Near the temple premises/Bus stand

Pudhukkittat

Neem, coconut, emali, kikar/babool

No wild endemic,endangered animals in the village / area.

Onion, vegetable, Flowers (medicinal), bajara, gram, Maize, rice

Total HH - 600hh, sc and bc dewan,gounder, shetiyar are the main communities.

Agri/agri labour -75%, non agri labour 25%, driver, borewell operator/jcb driver mainly. Average land 5 - 10 acres.

No NGO working in the village

Already HT line and railways line exiting in the village. HT line is not beneficial, its disturbed the farming and decreased the value of the land. Compensation given by the EB earlier HT line.

Want perpose componsation for the HT line tower as per less and value of the land and works / job oppertunity in the project.

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20


7 at the bus stand/at temple premise

V. Kovilpatti

Yes the local people have opinion of adversly impect on ground weater and plantation Due to HT line /towers.

Neem,coconut, palm, emali, babool are the main tree found in the area.

Main crops - paddy, cotton, coconut

total no of HH 500,only dewar communication living in the village

agri/agri labour are the main occupation non agri labour only 10% double crops in a year possible in the artea average land holding size is 5- 10 acres.


Already many towers/HT line existing in the village, disturbance in farming.

The local people demandtoavoide the praposed project,land is highely cultivable and good for paddy.cultivation is the main sourses of livelihood.

7 765 kV DC-TL from Virudhunagar to 765 kV SS Coimbato

6 At ex. president resident and bus stand, tea

Vagaikulam

Neem, palm, babool, are the main tree

Wild pig and Randiar found in the area.

Main crops - Paddy,cotton, green gram, bajara.

Total no of HH-350HH, main communities are dewar, periyar, sakaliar, pallar

Main occupation-agri + agri labour - 50% non agri works 50% average land size 3 to 5 minimum /maxumum 10 acres.

No NGO working in the village.

Already HT lines existing all the sides of the village which is not beneficial for the farmers and

The local people are work about the towers and HT lines. land value decreased,

172

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

re shop cultivation activities disturbed.

no development near the tower possible. But if the line crossed from the west direction of the village they no any objection.


8 At temple premises

S.Gobalapuram

Neem, palm, babool, but not at large scale. Trees found only beside the

wild rabbit,wild bear and randiyar found in the baren land/very common animal.

The main crops - cotton, Groundnuts, Green gram,sun flawer, maize, bajra

Total HH-200, majar cast- Nayadu, shetiyar/acharya

Main occupation - agri/agri labour 80% pvt. job 20% average land holding size 3 to 5 aeres.single crops only kharif possible.

No NGO working in this village.

Critical issues is disturbance in the farming and value of land that cases due to the tower no any demand of land near

The village on the road side both side NH road crossing.the land value is very high so people are worry about the

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

village within1 to 1.5 km area only.

the tower. proposed project.


7 Public place/ near the temple premises

Lalapuram Wild bear pig, Randiyar, peacock are very common in this area.

main crops- suger cane, rice, g.nut

main tree - plam,neem,babool

Total house hold- 300, main cost - Recliyar valeyer, Devendrem(s) main occupation-mostely farmers-80% agri labour, non agri labour -20% average land holding size 5 to 10 acres.


100% land is cultivated, no forest, barren, or barren land in the village. Due to tower farming disturbed, decrease the value of the land, no any development in the future.

The local people don’t want the HT line from the village. Farming disturbed due to the tower/HT line. The crossing of the HT line is at least 3 to 4 km away the village.

10 765 kV DC-TL from

6 Public place/ Bus

Valayapatti Neem, palm, babool,

Wild bear, peacock, found this

The main crops-cotton,

Total no of house hold -230 main

Main occupation-Agri + agri labour 90% non agri


No critical issue, the local people

The local people have no objection

174

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20


stand shrubs area at large scale.

g.nut, sunflower, bajra, maize

caste valayer only (bc). no ethnic minority living.

labour 10% average land holding size 3 to 5 acres.

are ready to support.

regarding the project. full support by the local people only depend maximum compensation.

400 kv DC - TL from V.nagar 765 kv.ss to kayathar 400 kv. SS

11 400 kV DC - TL from Virudhunagar 765 kV SS to Kayathar 400 kV SS

8 At the hotel near the bus stand

Ayyanaruthu

Neem, coconut, Plam, Babool

Peocock,Kulbi

Paddy,cotton,maize, G.nut, chilli, coconut

Total hh 130, muslims -50% hindu - 50% Agri/agri labour - 50% Mat merchant - 50%

Single crop during kharif only average land holding size 3 to 5 area.

No NGO working in the area.

Bad impact on the health a major issues, cancer cases increasing from the last 5 year. Team from chennai visited to find the reason of

The local people want support and special care about the health concerns want good hospital and care.

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

cancer in the village.a very fearful situation in the village.

12 400 kV DC - TL from Virudhunagar 765 kV SS to Kayathar 400 kV SS


Malaipatti Neem,babool, plam, emali

No wild endemic,endangered animals in the area.

Ured dal, bajra, maize, cotton, chilli, sunflower, g.nut

Total no of hh 1500, Rediyar bc/sc and mbc are in the main castes.

Agri and agri labour are the main occupation total land used for cultivate single crops only during kharif average land holding size 5 to 10 acres

No NGO working in the area.

Due to distrubance in the agri field and farming,the local people are not ready to provide land for the towers and HT line

The local people are worry about the proposed project due to loss of agri,its value and no use in the future due to towers and HT line.

13 400 kv DC - TL from V.nagar 765 kv.ss


sirukkulam Neem, palm tree, babool

No wild animals in the area.

Bajra, maize, cotton, chilli, dal.

Total number of household 250 main caste

Farmer-60%, agriculture labour-40% non agriculture is the secondry

No NGO working in the village only gram panchayat active.

Land is fully under cultivation and fully depend on

Due to loss of agriculture land and its value the

176

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

to kayathar 400 kv. Ss

nayadu-200, shetiyar others +50.

occupation single crops only during rainy season, average land holding is 3-5 area.

agriculture land value is very high.

local people are not ready to accept any compention for this project. They want other side.

14 765 kV.DC-TL from v.nagar to 765 kV.SS Coimbatore

near the bus stand/ tea shop

Lingampatti

Neem, palm babool.

No Maize, urad dal, cotton,, bajra.

Total household -2004, main caste, nadar sc tower, naidu and yadav.

Agriculture+ agriculture labour - 80%, non agriculture+ business / private . Service -20% average land hoding 3-5 areas / single crops.

No NGO working.

No critical issues. People want proper compention as per local market rate.

The local people are work due to towers and its negative impacts on farming and value of the land.

15 400kv dc-TL from v nagar to kayathan 400kv ss.

7 Near the bus stand.

Sivangvinanpuram

Neem/ palm/ babool.

No Dal, maize, bajra, lemon plantation and

Total household- 180, nadar sc, dewar, komar main caste.

Farmer/ agriculture labour 80% non agriculture labour -20% average land holding side - 3-5 area single crops in

No NGO working.

Already from the NH-7 left side HT line exsiting, so people want from that

From NH-7 left side, 2 km from the village, HT line crossing, so

S.No



Location

Name of village









1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

match-box wood plantation.

a year. side only not from the village side.

people of this village demanding proposed line from that side.

No Name of Component/ Site

Location Number of Participant

General perception about the project and the awareness about the proposed project.

Is the land Irrigated and what are the sources of Irrigation?


Loss of community life like any market Places or community activities to be affected




1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

1 T2.3-230 kV TL LILO Ottapidaram SIPCOT

Kumarpuram

7 Generally people are not in the favour of the towers and HT line. Not aware about the

Land is not irrigated full depends on rain

No loss of residential/ commercial structure

No loss of community life

No protected area in and around the village only Vallanad Deer park-55km

After thermal power air pollution and dust is very common but last 3 years plant is closed only 1-2

No adversely impacts on water and soil

178










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 & Kavanoor

proposed project

plant is only working

2 T2.3-230 kV TL LILO Ottapidaram SIPCOT & Kavanoor

Saminathan

7 People have not heard about the project no interest in the project

Fully depend on rain water-no irrigation facility only 15-20 borewell in the village

No loss of any kind of structure


No protected area

Current environmental condition is not good due to starlite chemical factory

No idea but due to wind power mill it may be possible in future but not by this project


Sinthalakattai

6 Common man not aware about the proposed project not interested in the proposed project.

The land is not irrigated fully depends on rain



Only Vallanad Deer Park-50 km. No protected area in and around this area.

Air pollution is common problem due to thermal power dust in the air a common problem

Not observed any adversely impact on the water or on the soil

4 T2.5-110 kV DC line Ottapidaram-Eppothuri

Sillanathan 8 The thought of the people on the proposed project are positive but they have issues

Land is not irrigated full depends on rain

No loss of residential/ commercial structure


No national park protected forest religious Sensitive site, historical site affected

Current environmental condition is not good due to industries in local area

No the project will not any adverse effects on the ground water










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 vendran regarding

Transmission line and tower.

5 T2.6-110 kV TL LILO Ottapidaram-Vijayapuri

Kamanayakkam Patti

8 Local people do not have any benefit from the tower and line, there is no enthusiasm for this project people are not aware.

No irrigation facility due to no availability of ground water fully depend on rain



Only Valland Deer Park -40 km

Current environmental condition is good no air problem dust noise condition in the area

No adversely impacts on water and soil


Keelamudiman

7 Mostly people are not aware the project they are not happy with the proposed project

Fully depend on rain water, for vegetable cultivation a few people using pump set for irrigation total-25 borewell in the village



Vallanad Deer park-50 km

Due to strong wind air pollution noticed due to dust otherwise no issue regarding pollution

No idea regarding adversely impact on water or soil

7 T2.6-110 kV TL LILO-

Ottapidaram

8 Not aware about the project mostly

Very few land near the village as irrigated by

No such loss observed


Vallanad Deer park-55 km

Due to thermal power plant and chemical factories

Not aware

180










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Ottapidaram- Vijayapuri

are unhappy with the proposed project

pump sets, total 20 pump set in the village

air pollution noticed.

1 T2.1 400 kV DC-TL from Ottapidaram to Udankudi

At temple 6 Local people are not happy with the proposed project, they are not aware about the project

Yes land is irrigated through borewell and pond water, area is under wetland.

No No No Current environmental condition in the area is good without any pollution.

No

2 T2.1 400 kV DC-TL from Ottapidaram to Udankudi

At temple 6 Local people are not aware about the project, but people will support the project

Mostly land is irrigated, main source of irrigation is river and pond

No No No Current environmental condition in the area is good without any pollution

No

3 T2.1 400kv DC-TL from Ottapidaram to

At temple 6 People have no any information about the project, project is not beneficial for local people,

Pond water is the only irrigation facility, fully depend on rain water and pond water


No










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Udankudi banana

cultivation may disturbed due to tower and high tension line

4 T2.1 400kv DC-TL from Ottapidaram to Udankudi

Community centre

7 Local people are not aware about the project want this project from the other side of the village from the forest area, barren land

Irrigation facility available borewell and river water are the sourece of irrigation


No

5 T2.2 400kv DC-TL from Ottapidaram to Kamuthi

Community centre

8 No objection about the project, people are not aware about the proposed project

The land is not irrigated no any source of irrigation only borewell rarely source of irrigation

No No No Due to power plant and construction site air, dust, noise are noticed

No

6 T2.2 400kv DC-TL

Muthiyapuram

8 Local people have no any objection they

No irrigation facility, fully depend on rain

No No No Current environmental condition in the

No

182










1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 from Ottapidaram to Kamuthi

are not aware about the proposed project ready to support positively

area is good without any pollution


At temple 7 Local people want no more towers and high tension line, already many high tension line exisiting in the village, not aware about he project



No


O Lakshmi narayan puram

6 People have not heard, not aware about the project but they ready to support this project without objection



No

S.No Name of Componen

t/ Site

Type of trees in

the area: Fruit/non fruit/fores

t/ rare/enda

ngered species

etc.

Wild, endemic,

endangered animals

in the area.

Type of agriculture/cr

ops in the area.

Number of Household

s in the Village/District, Area populated by ethnic minorities

etc.

General socio-economic standing:

What are the economic

activities? Land use, cropping

pattern (Seasonal), types of crops, Average land

holding size etc.

What other organizations

of a social nature

(NGOs/CBOs/ Civil Society) active in the area? Name

of these organizations

Any critical issue or concern by the

local people regarding the

project?


1 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19


Neem, palm trees, English Babool, Shrubs

No wild endemic or endangered animals

Main crops- Green gram, Maize, Bajra, Cotton

Total 300-HH, Mostly are SC and OBC

Mostly collie work in the plant, construction workers, seasonal agriculture work, a few 20 no area involve in goat raring, average land holding 2to 5 acres only. Mostly are marginal farmers


There are towers and HT line around the village apart from this the wind power mills have been installed but this did not help the common people financially. Land value reduced after towers installation

Local people get no benefit from the project this is why people are unhappy with this project people say that the towers should not be installed in the cultivated land because the land of cultivating very less


Neem, Palm tree, Babool, Shrubs


Urad, Maize, Bajra, Cotton are main crops

Total 250 household, no ethnic minority in the village

Agriculture, Agriculture labour, Non agriculture labour, MNREGA especially for female, carpenter drivers main occupation, average land holding size-3-5

No NGO working in the village, gram panchayat actively working in the village

No critical issue by the local people regarding the project. But other factories specially 'Starlite' people have environmental issue by the leakage of gas in the recent past

There is number of thermal power and chemical factories in the area. Whereby pollution spreads. Especially from thermal power plants in the recent past the local people had to face difficulties due to the gas leak from the chemical

184


t/ Site

Type of trees in


t/ rare/enda

ngered species

etc.

Wild, endemic,

endangered animals

in the area.


ops in the area.

Number of Household


etc.





holding size etc.


of a social nature





project?


1 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 acre factory during the protest

12 people lost their life in police proceedings there is still a lot of stress in the area

3 T2.3 : 230 kV TL LILO Ottapidaram SIPCOT & Kavanoor

Neem, English Babool, Palm trees are main trees


Green Dal, Maize, Bajra, Vegetable

Total-500 HH in the village mostly are SC community

Farmers, Drivers, Construction workers and work in the local plant, factories

No NGO in the village

Air Pollution dust is major issue by the local people

There are already many towers in the village people are not interested for the proposed project they said no employment opportunity in the project for local people of this area

4 T2.5-110 kV DC line Ottapidaram-Eppothurivendran

English Babool, Neem, Palm trees are very common. Fruit trees very less on the


Moong, tuar dal, cotton, maize jwar, chilly, onion and ragi main crops

Total household-300, no minorities

Main economic activities- agriculture, agriculture labour, construction labour, average land holding -2-5 acres, only single crops in a year

No NGO/CBO in the village, Gram panchayat functioning actively SHG formed and working by the women

Value of land will be reduced by the tower and Transmission line. No construction or development work will be possible in the future

The land for cultivation is very limited farming will be affected by the tower and HT line there are many lines already existed in the village


t/ Site

Type of trees in


t/ rare/enda

ngered species

etc.

Wild, endemic,

endangered animals

in the area.


ops in the area.

Number of Household


etc.





holding size etc.


of a social nature





project?


1 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 road side - Neem and Emali


Neem, English Desi Babool, Palm trees, Emali Shrubs etc


Vegetables, Bajra, Maize, Green Gram, Cotton

Total HH-1100

Mostly engaged in agriculture and agriculture based activities non agriculture construction labour factory labour factory workers small business private service etc 50% land only use for cultivation rest is barren only one crops in a year average land holding is 3-5 acre


Tower and HT line reduced the value of the land not useful in the future

Local people have no interest in the proposed project no direct benefits by the project no employment opportunity in the project for the local people

6 T2.6-110 kV TL LILO Ottapidara

Neem, English Babool, Shrubs,


Vegetables, Maize, Green Urad, Bajra,

Total HH-500 No ethnic minority

Agriculture, Agriculture Labour, non-agriculture labour, Business


Ground water has iron; kidney stone is very common due to water

Mostly people are ready to support the proposed project but they demand arrangement of safe

186


t/ Site

Type of trees in


t/ rare/enda

ngered species

etc.

Wild, endemic,

endangered animals

in the area.


ops in the area.

Number of Household


etc.





holding size etc.


of a social nature





project?


1 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 m-Vijayapuri

Palm trees

Banana mostly BC/SC

service others only 50% land use for cultivation only one crops in a year average land holding size-3-5 acre

drinking water

7 T2.6-110Kv TL LILO- Ottapidaram- Vijayapuri

Neem, Emali, English Babool, Palm


Urad, Maize, Bajra, Chilly, Flowers, Vegetable, Cotton, banana

Total household-1000, No ethnic minority

Agriculture, Agriculture labour, non-agriculture labour, private service, small business, tailoring, only one crop in a year during rainy season, average land holding 3-5 acre

No Ngo working in the area local gram panchayat actively working, SHG formed but not doing any economic activities

By the installation of tower and HT line people are not feeling good. Land value reduced due to tower, farming disturbed by the tower in the field

Nowadays the environment is a big issue in this area, recently there was a lot of protest due to leakage of aluminium gas in the Sterlite chemical factory near the Tuticorin. In which 12 person died in the police proceeding that is why the people of the area are afraid.


Neem, Palm tree, Coconut, Emali and

No Banana, Rice main crops

Total-100 household, no ethnic minority living in the village

Mostly are farmers, agriculture labour-60% and non agriculture labour-30%, Business-10%, only kharif

No NGO/CBO working in the village

No critical issue regarding the project but people demading high tension line should cross by the

No issues regarding the proposed project but people want high tension from the forest land or government land.


t/ Site

Type of trees in


t/ rare/enda

ngered species

etc.

Wild, endemic,

endangered animals

in the area.


ops in the area.

Number of Household


etc.





holding size etc.


of a social nature





project?


1 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

English Babool

crops, average land holding size 5-10 acre

government land or forest land


Neem, Palm tree, Coconut, Babool are commonly tree in the area


Total No of household 100 (All SC), no any ethnic minority living in the area

Mostly are farmers, agriculture labour-70% and non agriculture labour-25%, Business-5%, only kharif crops, average land holding size 5-10 acre, 20% are landless


No critical issue, But the area comes and wet land mostly a major issue

Local people have no issue regarding the proposed project but mostly want high tension line from the forest land area.


Coconut, Palm tree, Neem, Emali, Siris


Total no of household 1000, no any ethinic minority in the village

Mostly are farmer and agriculture labour-80%, 20% non agriculture labour and small business, only kharif crop, average land holding size-5-10acre


Fear of loss land value and loss of banana plantation due to high tension line and tower a critical issue, land are motsly wet land also a critical issue

Loss of banana plantation due to the project a critical issue for the local people they are supporting the project but advice the project should be crossed by the forest area from the other side of the village.

4 T2.1 400kv DC-TL

Coconut, Palm

No Banana, Rice, Maize

Total No of household

Farming and agriculture labour-

No NGO/CBO working in the

Loss of value of the land permanently a

No objection regarding the proposed project,

188


t/ Site

Type of trees in


t/ rare/enda

ngered species

etc.

Wild, endemic,

endangered animals

in the area.


ops in the area.

Number of Household


etc.





holding size etc.


of a social nature





project?


1 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 from Ottapidaram to Udankudi

tree, Neem, Emali, Siris

and vegetable

80, no any ethinic minority in the village

70%, Non agriculture labour-25%, small business 5%, average land holding size is 5-10 acres

village major issue. Mostly land is under wet land

people will support and participate in the implementation as per requriment.


Only neem, palm tree and shrubs of english babool no fruit tree

No Chilly, maize and dal are the main crops

Total- 275 household, no any ethinic minority in the village

Farming/ agriculture labour/ non agrculture labour-60%, land use cultivation, only kharif crops, average land holding 5-10 acre


Loss of valuable land and value decreased due to tower and high tension line is the main issue

Local people not aware about the proposed project local people want work/job opportunity in the project, people are ready to support the project without any objection.


Palm tree, Neem, Shrubs

No Coriender, Chilly, Maize and urad main crop

Mostly are farmer 70%, 30% agriculture labour and non agriculture labour, only kharif crop, average land holding is 5-10 acre


Loss of cultivable land, disturbance in farming and decreased the value of the land are the main issue

Local people are not aware about the proposed project, nobody shared the information regarding the project. People ready to support without any condition, there is no tower and high tension


t/ Site

Type of trees in


t/ rare/enda

ngered species

etc.

Wild, endemic,

endangered animals

in the area.


ops in the area.

Number of Household


etc.





holding size etc.


of a social nature





project?


1 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

line existing so no objection.


Palm tree, Neem, Emali,Shrubs

No Chilly, maize, cotton and dal

Total 500 household, no any ethinic minority in the village

Farmer, agrciulture labour and non agriculture labour, only kharif crop, average land holding 5-10 acre


Loss of land value due to tower and high tension line permanently a major concern

Local people not aware and not informed regarding the project, already towers existing surrounding the village so local people demanding basic development instead of the proposed project, a bridge demanded on the river to link and easy travelling for the village.


Palm tree, Neem and shrubs

No Chilly, onion, maize, dal

Total no of household 150, no any ethinic minority in the village

Farming, agriculture labour and non agriculture labour 80% land use for cultivation, kharif is only crops, average land holding is 3-10 acre


Loss of value of the land after tower footing and high tension line

There is no any high tension line existing in and around the village, so local people have no any objection regarding the proposed project.

190

A9.III Some Photographs of Public Consultations

T1.1: 765 kV double circuit line Virudhunagar - Coimbatore

Consultation at Valayapatti Consultation at Thathampatti

Consultation at M. Puliamkulam Consultation at Lalapuram

Consultation at Amaapatti Consultation at Vagaikulam

Consultation at Virakkal Consultation at Kilangundal T1.2: 400 kV double circuit line Virudhunagar - Kayathar

Consultation at Malaipatti Consultation at Sirukkulam

Consultation at Lingampatti Consultation at Ayyanaruthu T2.1: 400 kV double circuit line Ottapidaram - Udangudi

Consultation at Siluvipuram Consultation at Sampadi

192

Consutlation at Narasan Villai Consultation at Kallamozhi

T2.2: 400 kV double circuit line Ottapidaram - Kamuthi

Consultation at Chandra Giri Consultation at O. Lakshmi Narayanpuram

Consultation at Muthuyapuram Consultation at Nerinjipatti

T2.6: 110 kV single circuit line Ottapidaram to Vijayapuri

Consultations at Kamanyakkanpatti Consultations at Pasuvanthanai

Consultation at Ottapidaram Consultation at Vijapuri II

T2.3, T2.4, T2.5 and T2.7- All LILOs

Consultation at Kumarapuram Consultation at Venkatachalapuram

Consultation at Saminathan Consultation at Laxmipuram

194

Consultation at Sillanathan Consultation at Sinthalakattai

Consultation at South Vieerapandiyan Consultation at Valasamutharam

Annexure 10: Terms of Reference for National Safeguards Consultant for Monitoring during Construction and comissioning

A. Environmental Consultant for Monitoring, 8-person months

Qualifications: The Environment Monitoring consultant will have the relevant education background with specialization in environmental engineering, environmental planning or environmental sciences to undertake environmental impacts mitigation and monitoring works for similar projects. The consultant will be familiar with implementation of transmission projects complying with India’s environmental protection law and ADB Safeguard Policy Statement and preferably have at least 5 years’ experience in implementation level environmental impact assessment/monitoring. The consultant must have prior experience working on projects funded/ supported by ADB. Tasks to be performed: The consultant will (among other things):

• Review in consultation with the EPC contractor, the final proposed alignment of the new transmission lines, locations of substations, ROW of existing transmission corridors, substation lands, extent of reserved/forest areas for all project components, and gain understanding of the key environmental, health and safety concerns at each subprojects and other associated facilities such as power plants etc.;

• Review baseline environmental information available for all subprojects and provide guidance to EPC contractor in undertaking baseline survey to meet ADB SPS requirement. Also access relevant regulatory databases for developing the baseline information for each sub-project;

• Provide oversight on all state/national permissions requirement (e.g. forest clearances/rail/road/river/buffer zones) for both the transmission lines and substations. Work with the TN Forest department and EPC contractor to identify impacts to biodiversity/sensitive receptors within the subproject’s areas from any nearby protected areas, reserved forests, etc.;

• Closely work with the EPC contractor/Design consultant to ensure that care is been undertaken in avoiding project impacts and proper mitigation measure have been initiated.

• Review and record any adverse environmental impacts (direct and indirect impacts, and cumulative and induced impacts), mitigating measures undertaken, and corrective action plan for each subproject and its associated facilities in line with ADB SPS requirements. To assist TANTRANSCO to update initial environmental examination reports and environment management plan documents during the course of implementation of sub-projects in line with ADB SPS 2009 requirements;

• Carry out periodic site visits jointly with EPC contractor staff to monitor the implementation of the environmental management measures. The consultant will review the environment parameters data collected on monthly basis by the EPC contractor as specified in the EMoP and prepare semi-annual environmental monitoring reports. If required, prepare an environmental audit report for transmission lines for any existing facilities, or ongoing construction activities, by identifying gaps against ADB SPS requirements and formulate corrective action plan to meet ADB SPS requirement. Provide oversight at each sub-project site level to ensure that measures incorporated in the IEE and environmental management plan are implemented during construction;

• Update initial environmental examination report, and environmental management plan comprising of mitigation measures, monitoring program, corresponding cost estimates, institutional arrangements, implementation schedule during the course of

196

implementation as required;

• Review the consultation process undertaken by EPC contractor with stakeholders who participated and assess against ADB requirements; the consultant will lead the additional consultations, if still required. The consultant will examine whether there are complaints from the public or local communities regarding the project’s environmental performance. Such measures need to reported semi-annually during construction period and annually during operations until the Project Completion report is issued;

• Report the progress of implementation of the environmental provisions of the various transmission line and substation subprojects on a monthly basis to TANTRANSCO and ADB; and

• In coordination with TANTRANSCO, prepare training materials and carry out capacity development and training programs to the all staff and contractors.

Specific Deliverables: Reports, Workshops and Training

1. The consultant shall support TANTRANSCO in ensuring safeguard compliance for all ADB financed subprojects. The consultant shall submit the following reports: (i) An inception report within one month of mobilization, detailing the approach

and methodology, and (ii) Final completion report on environmental issues once project implementation

is complete.

2. In addition, the consultant shall support TANTRANSCO in preparation and finalization of the following safeguard documents: (i) Updating of Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report and EMP for the

project, and (ii) Semi-annual Environmental and Social Performance reports to be submitted to

ADB during the period of implementation until when Project Completion report is submitted to ADB.

3. Organize periodic training and capacity building workshops as specified in the

IEE/EMP document to TANTRANSCO staff and contractors. TANTRANSCO will provide logistic support as far as possible.

Counterpart’s Input and Personnel TANTRANSCO will ensure access to the available pertinent information to this assignment to the consultant. The consultant will have to collect relevant project data and reports from the EPC contractors, environment monitoring data from respective departments as required to successfully completing the monitoring reports. The environment parameters data from the EPC contractor will be provided to the consultant on monthly basis as specified in the EMoP. The designated personnel of the entities will interact with the Consultants and provide data, arrange discussions and assistance as required. Assignment Duration The duration of this project will be 36 months.

B. Health and Safety Consultant for Monitoring, 3-person months Qualifications: The Health and Safety (H&S) monitoring consultant will have the relevant education background with specialization in civil/mechanical/electrical engineering to undertake worker and community health and safety issues monitoring works for similar projects. The consultant will be familiar with implementation of transmission projects complying with India’s worker safety and community safety laws/acts and international health and safety best practise norms such as the World Bank’s EHS guidelines and preferably have at least 5 years’ experience in implementation level H&S plan preparation, implementation and monitoring. The consultant must have prior experience working on projects funded/ supported by ADB. Tasks to be performed: The consultant will (among other things):

• Review in consultation with the EPC contractor, the final proposed alignment of the new transmission lines, locations of substations, ROW of transmission corridors, substation lands, and gain understanding of the key health and safety concerns at each subprojects and other associated facilities such as power plants etc.;

• Review H&S plans prepared by the EPC contractor and provide guidance to EPC contractor in revise the plan to meet the ADB/World Bank/IFC requirement. Also access relevant regulatory databases, local worker skills status for developing the action plan for each sub-project;

• Provide oversight on all state/national permissions requirement (e.g. Contract Labor Acts, Worker Compensation Act, Employer’s Liability Act and others listed in IEE section 2.) for both the transmission lines and substations. Work with the TN Labor department and ensure employers and supervisors are obliged to implement all reasonable precautions to protect the health and safety of workers;

• EPC contractor to ensure air and noise emissions, wastewater effluents, oil and hazardous materials, electric shocks and wastes should be managed according to the guidance provided in the respective sections of the General EHS Guidelines with the objective of protecting soil and water resources. Closely work with the EPC contractor/Design consultant to ensure that care is been undertaken in avoiding accidents from working at heights for both workers and community at work place and proper measures to ensure safety have been initiated.

• Carry out periodic site visits jointly with EPC contractor staff to monitor the implementation of the H&S plan and review safety procedures employed at site. The consultant will review the H&S data collected on monthly basis by the EPC contractor and prepare semi-annual environmental monitoring reports. Provide oversight at each sub-project site level to ensure that H&S measures are implemented during construction;

• Update H&S plan of the EPC contractor comprising of safety measures, monitoring schedule, corresponding cost estimates, institutional arrangements during the course of implementation as required in line with World Bank EHS guidelines;

• Review the consultation process undertaken by EPC contractor with stakeholders who participated and assess against ADB requirements; the consultant will lead the additional consultations, if still required. The consultant will examine whether there are complaints from the public or local communities regarding the project’s Community Health and Safety issues. Such measures need to reported semi-annually during construction period and annually during operations until the Project Completion report is issued;

• Ensure proper Accident and Emergeny reponse plan is prepared and implementaed by the EPC contractor at each worksite. To review safety measures implemented by the contractor’s designated H&S officer at each site -transmission line and substation

198

subprojects; and

• In coordination with TANTRANSCO, prepare training materials and carry out capacity development and training programs to the all staff and contractors on H&S measures as well as Emergency reponse.

Specific Deliverables: Reports, Workshops and Training

4. The consultant shall support TANTRANSCO in ensuring H&S compliance in accordance with EHS guidelines for all ADB financed subprojects. The consultant shall assist in

• Updating of H&S plan for the project, and

• Preparetion of semi-annual H&S reports to be submitted to ADB during the period of implementation until when Project Completion report is submitted to ADB.

5. Organize periodic training and capacity building workshops on H&S issues to TANTRANSCO staff and contractors. TANTRANSCO will provide logistic support as far as possible.

Counterpart’s Input and Personnel TANTRANSCO will ensure access to the available pertinent information to this assignment to the consultant. The consultant will have to collect relevant project data and health and safety plans, reports from the EPC contractors on health and safety data from respective sites. The designated personnel of the entities will interact with the Consultant and provide data, arrange discussions and assistance as required. Assignment Duration The duration of this project will be 36 months.

Annexure 11: Due Diligence Report of 2x800 Uppur Super Critical Coal based Thermal Power Plant

TA-8254 REG: Enhancing Economic Analysis and South-South

Learning

2x800 Uppur Super Critical Coal based Thermal Power Plant of

TANGEDCO, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu, India

Environmental Due Diligence Report

200

1. Introduction a. Project description: title, type of project, location and setting, amount, size

(capacity, number of staff, etc.).

Project Name 2x800 MW Super critical imported coal based thermal power project

Location of Project

Village Uppur, Valamavoor and Thiruppalaikudi

Tehsil Thiruvadanai

District & State Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu

1. 9°33'12.62"N 78°53'50.36"E

2. 9°36'02.58"N 78°55'17.84"E

3. 9°35'12.88"N 78°53'50.36"E

Coordinates of Ash Pond Area 9°35'58.04"N 78°55'12.56"E

General Climatic Conditions

Mean Maximum Temperature (0C)

37.8

Mean Minimum Temperature (0C)

20

Relative Humidity (%) 70

Annual Rainfall (mm) : 827

Wind Pattern (during study period)

South

Elevation 4.5 m MSL

Accessibility

Road Connectivity Ramanathapuram-Pattukottai (East Coast Road 600 m)

National Highway-NH-210 (6.0 km)

Rail Connectivity Ramanathapuram (28 km)

Airport Madurai (140 km)

Seaport Tuticorin Port (140 km)

Environmental Sensitivity

Water bodies Peyar River (2.0 km), Uppar River (6.5 km),

Forest Area: None within the 10 km radius of the proposed plant site

Sanctuaries / National Parks None within the 10 km radius of the proposed plant site

Archaeological/Historically Important Site

None within the 10 km radius of the proposed plant site

Seismic zone Seismic Zone-II as per IS: 1893-2002

Staff 324 personnel during plant operation

Land requirement: 912 acres inclusive of 275 acres Green Belt, 138 acres of Ash Disposal area. Tanks such as Uppur Tank, Aladiyendal Tank, Naganendal Small Tank, Naganendal Big Tank, Valamavoor Tank, Mavilangaiyenthal Tank, Thiruppalaikudi Tank, etc., are located in the study area. The Palk Bay is at a distance of 1.0 km.

NRSA Satellite imagery available for the project in the EIA: IRS R2 L4 FX indicating drainage, cropping pattern, water bodies, location of nearest villages, reservoirs in the 10 km study area. Project is in a Green Field Location. The total geographical location of study area of the EIA is 56,922.05 ha. The agricultural crops grown in the study area were as follows: Cholam, Paddy, Coconut, Sugarcane, Cotton, Ground nut, Citrus, Pulses, Banana, Sapota, Pomegranate, Papaya, Mango, Guava and Vine yards. The revenue generating plants of the study area are as follows: Borassusflabellifer Handicraft and brush making Agave sp. Making ropes and bags Acacia nilotica and Acacia so. Timber Bombaxmalabaricum Plywood and match box Tamarindiusindica Yield of ripe tamarind b. Environmental categorization and rationale. Terms of Reference (TORs) issued by MoEFCC reference no. F. No. J- 13012/011 2012-IA II (T) dated 28-05-2012. Environment Category A for the project as per GOI regulations. c. Applicable Environmental Requirements – national and international best

practices. Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) document has been prepared by Bhagavathi Ana Labs Pvt. Labs, Hyderabad. It is proposed to use 100% imported coal (5.02 MTPA) for the project with maximum sulphur and ash contents of 0.8% and 10% respectively. Radio activity and heavy metal contents of coal to be sourced have been tested and the parameters are well within limits. Roof tops as well as surface rain water harvesting will be implemented in the proposed plant site. The stored rainwater will be used for green belt development and dust suppression within the plant premises. Brine from the desalination plant and cooling tower blow down will be discharged into the sea after proper dilution. All other effluents will be treated in ETP/STP and utilized within plant premises, so zero discharge of wastewater will be achieved. It is proposed to implement recirculation of ash pond water. The Marine EIA Study has been carried out through M/s. WAPCOS. Field survey was conducted for three seasons i.e., June 2013, September 2013 and January 2014 for primary data generation on various aspects of marine water quality and ecology. 15 Nos. marine sampling points were selected in Thiruppalakudi and Uppur coastal villages. The Marine samples were collected and tested by a team of experts from the Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology of Annamalai University. The results of the survey indicate that the water is well oxygenated and nutrients are adequate supporting good plankton population, the base in the food chain. Similarly, the levels of heavy metals and petroleum hydrocarbon were found to be below permissible level in all the seasons. The outfall of the proposed TPP would not change the quality of existing natural coastal environment. The rise in temperature is not likely to cause any alteration in the biotic community of the coastal waters of the project area. The Temperature and Salinity Dispersion Modelling Study for drawl and discharge of sea water has been carried out through M/s. IIT Madras The temperatures in the sea will rise by about 0.5-0.75°C within a radius of 2.0 km. Salinity will rise by about 4 ppt within 1.5 km distance from outfall. Beyond this, ambient conditions will be preserved. The intake/outfall pipelines will

202

be laid over RCC Deck supported by concrete pillars. Height of Deck above Chart Datum will be 7.5 m and this will ensure free movement of fishing vessels. Considering Fish escape velocity of 0.15 m/sec, the Diameter of Intake Well is fixed as 14 m, with offshore pump house. The location of Intake Well is 5.0 Km from LTL and at 4.0 m water depth. The location of Outfall is 7 km at 5.0 m water depth. The total ash generation is only 0.502 MTPA (1,375 Tonnes/day). 100% fly ash utilization is proposed. Many Cement Companies, viz., M/s. Tamil Nadu Cements, M/s. Dalmia Cements Ltd., M/s. Malabar Cements Ltd., M/s. Ultra Tech Cements Ltd., and M/s. Chettinad Cement Company Ltd., have furnished their expression of interest for off take of fly ash. The fly ash from the other running Units is being sold by e-auction and the same is proposed for the instant Unit. TANGEDCO will encourage small scale industry development in the industrially backward region by supplying fly ash to brick manufacturers. Ash Dyke of 138 acres has been provided within the Plant area for disposal of bottom ash in slurry form and the ash dyke will be lined with geo- membrane. As committed, in addition to provision of green belt of 50 m width all around the project boundary, a minimum budget of Rs. 3.0 Crores shall be provided for Green Endowment Fund for planting of trees outside the project boundary. As committed, a budget of Rs. 1.0 Crore shall be provided for mangrove protection and restoration. The mangroves shall be developed in consultation with Government of Tamil Nadu. 2. Gap Analysis The EIA report of Uppur was reviewed and the comparisons of Uppur practice and ADB’s SPS/IFC guidelines are presented in Table 1 below.

Table 1. Gap Analysis for Uppur Supercritical Thermal Power Plant No

Items GoI requirement ADB’s SPS/IFC requirement GAP

1. Category Category A, EIA study Category A, EIA study No Gap

2. Alternative Analysis

As guided by MoEFCC, Alternatives for Siting, Fuel Selection, Power Generation Technology, Water Supply, Cooling System, Ash disposal system are needed.

Fuel Selection Power Generation Technology Water Supply Cooling System Ash disposal system Site Etc.

No Gap

204

No


3. Impact Assessment

A. Effluent Discharge

The cooling water temperature will not exceed 5 degree C above the receiving water temperature. The modelling result shows temperatures in the sea will rise by about 0.5-0.75°C within a radius of 2.0 km.

Standards for discharge of liquid effluents more stringent for IFC.

B. Air New Emission Standards vide Notification No. S.O. 3305 (E) dated 01 Jan.2017 Particulate Matter- 30 mg/Nm3 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) -100 mg/Nm3 Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) -100 mg/Nm3 Mercury (Hg) 0.03 mg/Nm3 AEROMOD View model uses GLCs predictions. Isopleths of predicted GLCs are shown.

Solid Fuel (DA)

Particulate Matter- 30 mg/Nm3 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) -200 mg/Nm3 Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) -200 mg/Nm3 Air Impact Assessment Process

The emission standards, India is more stringent

No


The Ambient Air Quality (AAQ) was monitored during July – September 2012. There are no existing/proposed industries in 10 km radius study area. The 24hrs maximum base line concentration for PM10, SO2 and NOx was 66.6 μg/m3, 15.4 μg/m3 and 18.9 μg/m3 respectively. The 24 hrs maximum incremental concentration of PM10, SO2 and NOx would be 0.8 μg/m3, 35.32 μg/m3 and 14.6 μg/m3 respectively. Final GLC of all these will be within the prescribed AAQ limits (below).

206

No


C. Noise The predicted noise levels at the proposed plan boundary are 36 dB(A) which are below the noise standards and the isopleth. However, it is predicted that the high noise levels will be limited to work zone only.

Noise No employee should be exposed to a noise level greater than 85 dB(A) for a duration of more than 8 hours per day without hearing protection. In addition, no unprotected ear should be exposed to a peak sound pressure level (instantaneous) of more than 140 dB(C).

The IFC requirement for workplace noise is more stringent at work place.

4. EMP The project cost is Rs.12,664.76 Crores (approx). The capital and recurring cost towards EMP is Rs. 478 Crores and 48 Crores respectively.

A. Air a. Air: Stack height at 275m

- Parameters SPM, PM10 PM2.5, SO2, NOX, HG, O3 (ground level) covered in AAQ - Location of monitoring stations decided based on pre-dominant downwind direction, population zone, villages in vicinity and sensitive receptors - Monitoring station Tiruppalaikudi considered as upwind direction (North) and Uppar as pre-dominant down wind direction (South) based on wind pattern during the study period. - AEROMOD View model uses GLCs predictions. Isopleths of predicted GLCs are shown. - Air quality contours are plotted on the topographical maps of study area.

b. High Efficiency Electrostatic Precipitators (ESPs) shall be installed to ensure that particulate emission does not exceed 30 mg/Nm. Adequate dust extraction system such as cyclones/bag filters and water spray system in dusty areas such as in coal handling and ash handling points, transfer areas and other vulnerable dusty areas shall be provided along with an environment friendly sludge disposal system.

Based on modelling

India is

more

detailed

No


c. Green belt shall also be developed around the Ash Pond over and above the Green Belt around the plant boundary. Green Belt consisting of three tiers of plantations of native species all around plant and at least 50 m width shall be raised. Wherever 50 m width is not feasible a 20 m width shall be raised and adequate justification shall be submitted to the Ministry. Tree density shall not be less than 2500 per ha with survival rate not less than 80 %.

B. Water The specific water consumption shall not exceed 2.5 m3/MWh and zero waste water discharge shall be achieved.

Water consumption impacts should be assessed

India is

more

detailed C. Disaster Management Plan (DMP)

DMP prepared to meet any eventuality in case of an accident taking place due to storage of oil. Adequate safety measures provided in the plant area to check/minimize spontaneous fires in coal yard, especially during summer season. Storage facilities for auxiliary liquid fuel such as LDO/ HFO/LSHS shall be made in the plant area in consultation with Department of Explosives, Nagpur. Sulphur content in the liquid fuel will not exceed 0.5%. First Aid and sanitation arrangements shall be made for the drivers and other contract workers during construction phase.

Emergency and Risk Management Plan included

No Gap

5. Monitoring The project proponent shall upload environmental quality monitored data on a regular

Continuous monitoring at stack and locations and periodicity for AQ is decided. Regular monitoring of ambient air ground level concentration of S02, NOx, PM2.5 & PM10 and Hg shall be carried out in the impact zone and records maintained. If at any stage these levels are found to exceed the prescribed limits, necessary control measures shall be provided immediately. The location of the monitoring stations and frequency of monitoring shall be decided in consultation with SPCB. Periodic reports shall be submitted to the Regional Office of this Ministry. The data shall also be put on the website of the company.

Air quality Monitoring guidelines Continuous Automatic Air quality sampling EMoP prepared with Parameters, Sampling Frequency, Evaluation Criteria, Sampling points overlaid with relevant site layout/surrounding maps and the Cost

208

No


basis on its website.

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 also be undertaken and results/findings submitted along with half yearly monitoring report. Disposal of solid/liquid from Desalination plant shall comply with the prescribed standards and if need be, environmental safeguard measures by providing balancing/neutralizing tank may be set up and operated regularly & efficiently. Noise levels emanating from turbines shall be so controlled such that the noise in the work zone shall be limited to 85 dB(A)from source. For people working in the high noise area, requisite personal protective equipment like earplugs/ ear muffs etc. shall be provided. Workers engaged in noisy areas such as turbine area, air compressors etc shall be periodically examined to maintain audiometric record and for treatment for any hearing loss including shifting to non noisy/less noisy areas.

6. Public Consultation

Focus group (includes gender, tribal etc.) discussions followed by Public Hearing for disclosing EIA and get responses. Public Hearing/Public Consultation for the project was conducted by Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board on 04.07.2014. Detailed Socio-economic & Community Needs Assessment study has been conducted through M/s. Madras School of Social Work, Chennai. Based on the Community Needs Assessment, TANGEDCO has earmarked Rs. 38.0 crores and Rs. 3.0 crores as Capital Cost and recurring cost per annum for CSR respectively. As committed, a minimum amount of Rs. 56 Crores shall be earmarked

ADB SPS 2009: For environment category A projects, public consultations will necessarily include consultations at the early stage of EIA field work and when the draft EIA report is available during project preparation, and before project appraisal by ADB.

No Gap. Both require consultations at least twice.

No


towards the capital cost of CSR activities to be undertaken during the construction phase of the project.

7. External Monitoring

None For projects likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts, the borrower/client will retain qualified and experienced external experts or qualified NGOs to verify its monitoring information. The borrower/client will document monitoring results, identify the necessary corrective actions, and reflect them in a corrective action plan. The borrower/client will implement these corrective actions and follow up on these actions to ensure their effectiveness.

Third Party

monitoring

lacked in

Uppur

8. Grievance Redress system

Grievance as part of local government/EA set up. Also, CSR in consultation with Local bodies and Revenue department/Government of Tamil Nadu

Grievance redress framework (both informal and formal channels), setting out the time frame and mechanisms for resolving complaints about environmental performance.

Time

Frames are

not time

bound.

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2.1 Scope of review and methodology a. Secondary documents reviewed (e.g., environmental assessment reports, copies

of permits/licenses). Documents prepared for the project approval by TANGEDCO: • Terrestrial Environmental Impact Assessment Study - MIs. Bhagavathi Ana Labs,

Hyderabad carried out during July - September 2012. • Marine Environmental Impact Assessment Study - M/s. WAPCOS Ltd., Government of

India Organisation. • Mathematical Modelling for Intake and Outfall of cooling water for the Project- M/s. IIT

Madras. • Detailed Project Report – M/s. Development Consultants Private Limited, Chennai • Geo Hydrological Study - Anna University, Chennai. • Feasibility of Transportation of Coal for the Project - M/s. RITES, Government of India

Organisation. • Socio Economic and Community Needs Assessment Study – M/s. Madras School of

Social Work. Clearances Secured:

• Environment Clearance J-13012/01/2012-IA.1I (T) Dated: 18.05.2016 from Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India Titled: 2x800 MW Uppur Supercritical Thermal Power Plant and CRZ clearance for the foreshore facilities (cooling water intake and outfall structures) at Villages Uppur, Valamavoor & Thiruppalaikudi, Tehsil Tiruvadanai, District Ramanatahapuram, Tamil Nadu by Mis Tamil Nadu Generation & Distribution Corporation Ltd. (TANGEDCO).

• Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC - Thermal Power) in its 38th & 52nd Meetings held during 25th-26th June, 2015 & 29th February & 1st March, 2016 respectively and EAC (CRZ) in its 150th & 156th Meetings held during 29-31st July, 2015 & 28th-29th January, 2016 respectively, the Ministry hereby accords environmental clearance to the above power plant under the provisions of ElA Notification dated September 14, 2006 & subsequent amendments therein.

• CRZ clearance for foreshore facilities (cooling water intake and outfall structures) under the provisions of CRZ Notification, 2011 & subsequent amendments.

• Administrative sanction for acquisition of land issued by GOTN vide G.O. dt 21.1.2014. Acts Applicable: • CRZ Notification, 2011. • Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. • Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. • Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and rules. • Hazardous Wastes (Management, Handling & Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2008

and its amendments. • Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991 and its amendments. • National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. NOCs: NOC obtained from Airport Authority of India for construction of 275 m height chimney. NOC from PCCF and Chief Wildlife warden has been obtained on 21.5.2014. b. Methodology adopted (Site visit, inspection report, etc.). No primary data will be

collected. Geographical location of the study area: The project area comprising of Villages Uppur, Velamavoor, Thirupalaikudi, Tehsil Thiruvadanai, Ramanadhapuram District of Tamil Nadu.

Satellite data: The Indian Remote Sensing satellite IRS R2 L4 FX was used for present analysis. One scene of satellite imagery covered the entire study area. Topographical maps of the study area: The Survey of India topographical map of 58 Kl11, 58 Kl13, 58 Kl14, 58 Kl15 on 1:50,000 scale covering Ramanadhapuram District of Tamil Nadu, was used as reference map for geo-referencing of the remote sensing data. Land Issues: Govt. of Tamil Nadu issued Administrative Sanction for Acquisition / Alienation of lands for the Project vide G.O.Ms.91, dt.21.1.2014. However, no activity has been carried out in the lands except preliminary survey and geo-technical investigation (bore hole studies). However, only after obtaining requisite statutory clearance, actual work at the field will be started. Land Acquisition will be carried out only as per the prevailing LA Act. Community land of 2 ha (taken from roads, threshing ground). Acquisition of patta lands was done on 10.10.2015 and District Commissioner permission for Poramboke lands was granted on 3.1.2016. c. Review of Special conditions: Technology used by power plant is one of them.

The use of different technologies can produce large differences in environmental impact (e.g. subcritical versus supercritical boilers in thermal power plants).

Super Critical Technology is used that reduces water requirement. 2.2 Status of Environmental Safeguards Standards followed: a. Appropriate identification of major anticipated environmental impacts and risks

- Site levelling and filling of earth material The proposed project site elevation is + 4.5m above MSL. It is proposed to level the site to + 5.0 above MSL. The project area is 912 acres of land, after removing the green belt area (275 acres) and ash dyke area (138 acres), the balance area need to be filled is 499 acres. About

10 lakh cubic metres of filling material will be required for leveling. The fill earth is proposed to be obtained from Sadaveli and Varavani villages near R.S. Mangalam, which is at a distance of about 15 – 20 km from the project site. The filling earth material will be transported by trucks. There will be a marginal impact on the surrounding land use during the construction activity. The existing ground level and other water levels near to the plant are given below. (i) RL of East Coast Road : MSL + 5.300 m (ii) RL of Project Site (Average) : MSL + 4.800 m (iii) High Flood Level in River : 1.542 m (iv) RL of River Bed : MSL + 3.380 m (v) RL of High Flood Level in River : MSL + 4.922 m (vi) Free Board : 0.300 m (vii) Safe Grade Elevation of Project Site : RL of River Bed + HFL + Free Board

= MSL +5.230 Therefore, MSL +5.230 m has to be adopted as a safe grade elevation throughout the project site.

- Explore commercial utilisation of brine instead of discharging into sea. Only cooling water along with the brines from Desalination plant will be discharged into the sea. b. Adequacy of environmental assessment (for category A projects, including the

adequacy of alternative analysis).

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Environmental Impact Assessment as prepared by TANDGEDCO is deemed sufficient to fit the GOI norm for Category A projects. The plant is approved for construction with conditions attached in Environmental Clearance document. Updation of power evacuation scheme is required in the EIA. However, there are additional aspects are needed to be studied: No alternative analysis

proposed in the EIA for: - Alternative location of power plant not mentioned in the EIA. Document mentions that

site was selected based on the Site Selection Criteria stipulated by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The site is away from Cities (Nearest Town Ramanathapuram is at a distance of 28 km, 500m away from East Coast Road, 4 Km away from NH-210 and there are no eco- sensitive zones within 10 km of the project site.

- Alternative sites for ground/surface water source and disposal not mentioned in the EIA

c. compliance status with applicable national regulatory requirements on (i) Information disclosure: Public media and websites as per GoI requirements. (ii) Consultation with affected people and other stakeholders: The public hearing was held on 04.07.2014 at 10:00 AM in Bharathi Thirumanmdapam, Devipattinam, Ramanathapuram district for the project of TANGEDCO, Uppur Thermal Power Plant at Uppur, Thirupalaikudi, and Valamavur village of Thiruvadanal Taluk, Ramanathapuram district. (iii) Occupational and community health and safety, biodiversity conservation and

sustainable natural Occupational Health Assessment of Occupational health as endemic diseases of environmental origin will be carried out after commission of the plant. Evaluation such as following will be followed:

Occupation Type of evaluation

Coal Handling Area Chest X-ray, spirometry and vision testing

Ash Handling Area Chest X-ray, spirometry, Vision; and Hearing tests

Boiler Area & Turbo Generator Area Chest X-ray, spirometry and vision testing

Noise prone areas Audiometry

Main Control Room Far & Near Vision; Colour Vision; and Hearing tests

Biodiversity Conservation: Mangroves in coastal areas, healthy phyto-planktons and fish in the area, salinity in the sea is within limits. (iv) resource management, and physical cultural resources: No PCR in the area. Resources: Sea Water for cooling water; lands used are patta lands and Poramboke lands; fuel is imported or blended coal through conveyors, or rail road.

(v) Adequacy of mitigation measures and EMP (mitigation measures, monitoring and reporting, institutional arrangement, budget), or corrective action plan for existing facilities, if any

No existing facilities at the project site. The areas in question are pristine with no existing/proposed industry within 10 kms of the proposed project area. There are no National Parks, Sanctuaries, Elephant/Tiger Reserves, migratory routes/wildlife corridors within 10 km of the project site. Therefore, no corrective action plan is needed for the project. Moreover, the project proponent will meet the Regulatory requirement: An Environmental Cell comprising of at least one expert in environmental science/ engineering, marine ecology, occupational health and social science, shall be created preferably 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 Plant who would be accountable for implementation of environmental regulations and social impact improvement/ mitigation measures. 2.3 Examination of Environmental Impact: a. Examine issues in terms of environmental impacts, mitigation measures and compliance requirements applicable ADB environmental requirements and national laws, regulations, and standards. The site was selected only based on the Site Selection Criteria stipulated by CPCB. The site is away from Cities (Nearest Town Ramanathapuram is at a distance of 28 km), 500m away from East Coast Road, 4 Km away from NH-210 and there are no eco- sensitive zones within 10 km of the project site. There are no major industries in the Core Zone / Buffer Zone of the Project area. The major activities are agriculture and fishing. There are few aqua culture units and salt pans near the project area. b. Review of the following information from all published and available reports from secondary sources for the following items: Air quality

i. Air dispersion modelling - Impact on air emissions from stacks due to numerous merchant power plants. Dust disposal procedure from ESP, other filters.

Stack is proposed to the height of 275 m for an effective dispersion of the pollutants. NOC obtained from Airport Authority of India for construction of 275 m height chimney. Site specific meteorological and air quality data of July, August, September 2012 collected and monitoring done as per MOEFCC notification dated 16.11.2009. Suitably designed ESPs with an efficiency of 99.9% will be placed upstream of the stacks which will separate out the incoming dust in flue gas and limit the dust concentration at its designed outlet concentration to less than 50 mg/Nm3. High Efficiency Electrostatic Precipitators (ESPs) shall be installed to ensure that particulate emission does not exceed 30 mg/Nm3. Adequate dust extraction system such as cyclones/bag filters and water spray system in dusty areas such as in coal handling and ash handling points, transfer areas and other vulnerable dusty areas provided along with an environment friendly sludge disposal system. The SO2, NOx and Hg emissions shall not exceed 100 mg/Nm3, 100 mg/Nm3 and 0.03 mg/ Nm3 respectively.

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- Parameters SPM, PM10 PM2.5, SO2, NOX, HG, O3 (ground level) covered in AAQ - Location of monitoring stations decided based on pre-dominant downwind direction,

population zone, villages in vicinity and sensitive receptors - Monitoring station Tiruppalaikudi considered as upwind direction (North) and Uppar as

pre-dominant down wind direction (South) based on wind pattern during the study period.

- AEROMOD View model uses GLCs predictions. Isopleths of predicted GLCs are shown.

- Air quality contours are plotted on the topographical maps of study area. Cumulative Impact of Air quality Effect of this plant vs area: The level of suspended particulate matter in this study area is 148 Micro gram/Cub-m. The permissible limit is 200 Microgram/Cub-in as per TNPCB standards. The tentative increase in quantity after the project is 4-6 Microgram/Cub-m (assumption taken from Udangudi plant due to similar technology used). Cumulative impact on air quality of all thermal power plants has not been calculated. ii. Open yard storage of coal – list of measures taken to reduce air pollution due to

high wind velocity. Yard: Coal storage for 45 days approx. and mill bunker storage of 14 hours is proposed. Transportation: Tuticorin port is developing Hare Island for handling of 15-20 rakes of coal per day by railroad. New siding of 5.2 km long Tuticorin Marshalling yard to Hare Island will have attendant loading facilities at Hare Island. Two road over bridges one each on NH Road (Ramnad-Madurai crossing) and EXG. NH Road (Ramnad-Trichy). Open wagons like BOXN where coal is unloaded through tippling will be used. Assuming bunching of 25%, the facilities inside the yard been designed to handle minimum of 6.7 rakes on daily basis. 1400 KL per annum of LDO (11100 KL) for cold start and HFO (3700 KL) for flame stabilization at lower load by road tankers is required for the plant. It is proposed that one full rake for unloading of POL be provided at the plant. iii. Disposal of ash at Ash dyke’s from fly ash plants. MOUs with private parties on

Fly ash utilization. The bottom ash is proposed to be disposed in Ash Dyke. The entire fly ash will be disposed off to Cement Companies / Brick Manufacturers. Many Cement Companies, viz., M/s. Tamil Nadu Cements, M/s. Dalmia Cements Ltd., M/s. Malabar Cements Ltd., M/s.Ultra Tech Cements Ltd., and M/s. Chettinad Cement Company Ltd., have furnished their expression of interest for off take of flyash. Ash (non-exclusive) arrangements with Dalmia Cements have been made to pick up 0.402 MTPA of fly ash (1,100 tonnes per day). A long term study of radio activity and heavy metals contents on coal to be used shall be carried out through a reputed institute and results thereof analysed every two year and reported along with monitoring reports. Thereafter mechanism for an in-built continuous monitoring for radio activity and heavy metals in coal and flyash (including bottom ash) shall be put in place. iv. Air condenser – details of estimated heat dissipation to the atmosphere. The sea water will be used for condenser cooling and portion of it will be desalinated and used for other purposes. The concentrated sea water will be produced from cooling tower

blow down and desalination & RO-OM plant, which will be collected in CT blow down cum reject water storage tank and then pumped to sea with diffuser arrangement to dilute the effluent without affecting ocean atmosphere. Details of heat dissipated to atmosphere not included in the EIA. Water Availability The Tuticorin port is at a distance of 140 km. The water bodies in the study area are Peyar River at 2.0 km and Uppar River at 6.5 km from the project site. In addition tanks such as Uppur Tank, Aladiyendal Tank, Naganendal Small Tank, Naganendal Big Tank, Valamavoor Tank, Mavilangaiyenthal Tank, Thiruppalaikudi Tank, etc., are located in the study area. The Palk Bay is at a distance of 1.0 km. The water samples were analyzed as per Standard Methods IS 10500 and for analysis of water and wastewater, American Public Health Association (APHA) Publication.

i. Procedure of generating DM water which will be obtained from captive R.O Plant. Water requirement: Sea water from Palk Bay 15,376 m3/hr. Cooling System: NDCT with closed cycle cooling.

Parameter Description

Water requirement : 15376 m3/hr

Source of water : Sea water from Palk Bay

Water intake point at 9033'3.49"N 78°58'23"E at a distance of 5.8 km from the shore at a depth of 4.5 m in the sea.

The outfall point of the 9033'38.9"N; 78°59'11.9"E at a distance of 6.5 km from the shore at a depth of 5.0 m in the sea.

Water transportation : The land fall point of intake and outfall is 9034'21.5"N; 78°55'25"E on the sea shore.

The intake and outfall studies were done by Department of Ocean Engineering, lIT Madras, Chennai Tamil Nadu

Raw water treatment : Desalination Plant, RO plant and DM plant

Cooling water system : Natural draft cooling tower with closed cycle cooling

ii. Impact on water allocation from TWAD or private suppliers drawing from ground

water through tankers. Water for local consumption may be diverted to Coal plants and may raise prices for locals due to huge demand of water from power plants.

Total water requirement The total plant water requirement will be 15,376 m3/hr. The water is used in different processes of the thermal power plant, the main uses are Make-up water for condenser cooling; Cooling of electrical and mechanical auxiliary equipment such as, generators, transformers, compressors, and other heat exchangers; Make-up water for power cycle (boiler make-up); water requirement for ash disposal; Water for miscellaneous services such as Fire-fighting, General services viz. air conditioning, ventilation, service water, dust suppression, potable water for plant and township, etc. Desalination plant (11 MLD capacity) is proposed for plant water, service water and potable water requirement of the plant and for supply of drinking water to nearby villages. In case of failure of Desalination Plant, the Power Plant will be stopped till the Desalination Plant is repaired.

216

Drinking water requirements The water requirement includes the drinking water requirement includes the drinking water supply to the nearby villages. Total present population in the nearby villages of Uppur, Valamavoor and Thiruppalaikudi is about 13000. Considering the life of the power project as 30 years and gradual influx of migrants to service the power plant, the population in the area may triple in size, ie. to about 39000. As per the IS 1172-1993, for communities with population up to 20,000, without flushing system, for supply of water through stand post, the per capita per day water requirement is a minimum of 40 litres. Therefore, the water requirement for 13,000 to 39000 persons (taking an average of 25,000 persons), will be about 1000,000 litres per day of drinking water is required for the three villages and to be supplied. Water Disposal/Impact on Marine/Human Life

i. Disposal of brine and waste into sea, on land disposal sites of DM plant wastes from thermal plants.

EIA approval requirements: The specific water consumption shall not exceed 2.5 m3/MWh and zero waste water discharge shall be achieved. Detailed plan for conducting monitoring of water quality and identification of surface and ground water points based on drainage pattern and water quality data in the EIA. Sources of waste water and their treatment method adopted

Source of Wastewater Treatment Method

Filtration plant back wash The sea water filtration plant filters are periodically backwashed with filtered sea water.

OM plant regeneration The generation of the OM plant will be carried with 33% HCI waste and 48% NaOH solution and the effluents will be let in to the neutralizing pit

Sanitary waste from plant The sewage from the plant will be conveyed through closed toilets drains to septic tanks from where they will be treated in the ETP and used for gardening purpose.

Boiler blow down Boiler blow down water will be let into the guard pond.

Miscellaneous plant service This will be conveyed to closed drains to the guard pond.

Fuel oil storage and handling area runoff

The effluents will be collected in a pit and after treatment will be let into the ETP

Dust suppression I extraction system runoff

The dust extraction system runoff water will be let into the guard pond and after settling down the water will be allowed in to the ash water tanks.

Coal pile area runoff The Coal pile area runoff water will be let off into a guard pond and after settling down the clear water will be allowed to flow into the ash water tank.

Cooling tower blow down The Cooling tower blow down water will be sent through the CW system return line directly to the sea.

Ash pond effluent The ash recovery water from the ash pond will be pumped to the proposed clarifier. The recovered water will be pumped to the raw water storage tank.

ii. Impact to aquatic and human life in the vicinity of the outfall. Impact of blow down

water on marine life in the outfall area. Disposal of brine into the sea from plant – quantities and level of dilution. Marine/CRZ clearance for permissible facilities required for the power plant. Review fish data at the intake water side.

Clearances for CRZ

The Marine Environmental Impact Assessment Study was conducted through M/s. WAPCOS, a Government of India Organisation, accredited by NABET (Accreditation No.168) and Mathematical Model Study for Thermal and Salinity Dispersion of cooling water outfall was conducted through M/s. IIT Madras. Administrative Sanction for acquisition of the land has been issued by GOTN vide G.O dt.21.1.2014 and the survey works have started. NOC from PCCF & Chief Wildlife Warden has been obtained on 21.5.2014. The public hearing meeting was held on 4.7.2014. The District level CRZ meeting was held on 20.8.2014. The State level CRZ Committee in its meeting held on 27.11.2014 recommended the project. Field survey was conducted for three seasons i.e., June 2013, September 2013 and January 2014 for primary data generation on various aspects of marine water quality and ecology. 15 Nos. marine sampling points were selected in Thiruppalakudi and Uppur coastal villages. The Marine samples were collected and tested by a team of experts from the Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology of Annamalai University. The results of the survey indicate that the water is well oxygenated and nutrients are adequate supporting good plankton population, the base in the food chain. Similarly, the levels of heavy metals and petroleum hydrocarbon were found to be below permissible level in all the seasons. The outfall of the proposed TPP would not change the quality of existing natural coastal environment. The rise in temperature is not likely to cause any alteration in the biotic community of the coastal waters of the project area. Sea water outfall The cooling water will be drawn at a distance of about 4.0 km from the shore through an Intake Well located at a distance of 5.2 km from shore at 4.0m water depth The Outfall will be at a distance of 7.0 km from shore at 5.0m water depth near ambient temperature due to closed cycle cooling system. The Modelling Study for dispersion of temperature and salinity has been conducted by lIT Madras for worst conditions it is seen that the temperatures in the sea will rise by about 0.5- 0.75 0C and Salinity will rise by about 4 ppt within 2.0 km distance from outfall. Beyond this, ambient conditions will be preserved. Likewise salinity rise will also be diluted within a radius of 2.0 km and then the plume will have ambient conditions. The outfall of the proposed Uppur Power Plant would not change the quality of existing natural coastal environment. The Intake Well has been designed with fish escape velocity as 0.15m/sec. The Intake and Outfall pipes will be laid over Jetty. M/s. WAPCOS, the consultants for Marine EIA Study have concluded that rise in temperature is not likely to cause any alteration in the biotic community of the coastal waters of the project area. Shoreline investigations show no change in shoreline due to construction of the jetty. However, during construction phase there could be a few meters of shoreline that could be

disturbed. Mangrove vegetation loss 0.5 ha of mangrove vegetation associations (i.e. not including the open canopy Avicennia marina scattered vegetation) currently spreadout over an area of 129.15 Ha will be affected (a loss of approximately 0.004%), which is considered to be a negligible impact on this vegetation association. The mangrove area affected due to the proposed project is less than an acre and also it has been observed that there is only sporadic growth of mangroves. It is unlikely that this project will detrimentally impact upon the conservation status of any species of mangrove, marine fauna or avifauna, as there are no known species endemic to present project location. Those species that inhabit these mangrove areas are known to occur more widely along the East Coast of India. Although species impacts are not expected, the loss of mangrove vegetation may impact upon the fisheries and ecosystem services provided by the mangroves temporarily during the construction period. Although such impacts are important, due to the low level of loss of both closed canopy and sparse mangrove vegetation

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associations, relative to the surrounding habitats (approximately 0.5 ha out of 129.15 ha currently present in the area), it is considered that this impact will be very minimal. iii. Existence of any coral reefs and algal patches – review available marine ecology

studies in the Marine EIA if available. Review the impact on Mangroves and water temperature and quality in creek in outfall area also.

Various results on the chemical and biological parameters indicate that the water is well oxygenated, nutrient rich and biologically productive at primary and secondary levels. The marine flora and fauna also indicate the existence of diverse population. The Uppur coastal area has mangrove vegetation along the shore with Avicennia marina, and Rhizophora apiculata. However, the project is more than 1 km from the sea shore and hence will not affect the mangrove vegetation. The cooling water intake and outfall pipelines will be routed so as to cause minimal impact on the mangrove vegetation. However it may not be possible to avoid all direct impacts on mangroves and impacts have been minimised as far as possible by optimising the design of the infrastructure corridor. iv. Potential impact on Gulf of Mannar National Park –as Gulf of Mannar/Palk Strait is

a sensitive area. CRZ clearance to be reviewed for clearance requirements and approvals for permissible facilities required for the power plant.

The vegetation of study area is of marine habitat type. The existing species are well adapted to high salt tolerance and have some mechanism to conserve their body water. Due to intense interactions between land, sea and air, productivity of natural system along the coastal area is very high. There is no marine national park or sanctuary within study area. The terrestrial vegetation of the study area can be broadly studied under two major groups: • Scrub & Halophytic vegetation • Mangrove vegetation The dominant plant in the study area is Prosopis juliflora, which is found commonly near the nallas and village wastelands. Azardirachta indica is a common tree near the villages and on the hedge of agricultural field. Vegetation of the study area can be broadly categorized under inland and marine nature. Scrub & Halophytic Vegetation This type of vegetation mainly confined towards western part of the study area. The species are sparsely distributed. The common species observed Borassus fabelifer, Prosopis juliflora, Coccos nucifera, Salicornea brachiata, Suaeda maritima, Artiplex repens, Aeluropus lagopoides, etc. Common grass species of the study area were Cynodon dactylon, Chrysopogon fulvus, Heteropogon contortus, etc. Mangrove Vegetation Mangrove scrubs are the salt water vegetation of tropical and subtropical intertidal regions of the world. Mangroves of this area are of fringing type confined to intertidal zones between low tidal and high tide level. The mangrove vegetation was located near mouth of river and sea water. The most dominanting species of this mangrove vegetation was Avicennia marina, Rhizophora mucronata. Their height varies from 0.3 to 3.0 m. Besides Excoecaria agallocha and Thespesia populnea were also observed in some of the patches. The list of mangroves species found in the intertidal zones other than the species mentioned above was as follows: Avicennia officinalis, Suaeda maritime, Suaeda monoica, and Salichornia brachiala. Suaeda maritima of Chenopodiaceae family was found to be the most common species in all locations with grasses having a higher frequency of occurrence at all the locations. Prosopis juliflora of Mimosaceae family is relatively dominant near proposed site. A buffer of 50 m along the mangroves will be left at the project site.

v. Review reported statements of affected fishermen at the intake and outlet water channels. Note enhancement of any community assets, provision of any facility out of public demand.

The total sea water requirement for the Power Plant is about 15,376 m3/h and the cooling water discharge into the sea is 10,508 m3/h. COC of 1.3 has been proposed to optimize water usage. Closed cycle cooling system with Natural Draft Cooling Towers (2 no.) is proposed. Sea Water outfall includes ultrafiltration, desalination plant RO plant, CT blow down cum reject water to the tune of 10,508 m3/hr into Palk Bay. Desalination plant (11 MLD capacity) is proposed for plant water, service water and potable water requirement of the plant and for supply of drinking water to nearby villages. Canals and Tanks The existing surplus drains originating from Tiruppalaikudi, Valamavur, and Nagananthanal Big tank crosses the project site at four different locations. Particularly, the Nagananthal Big tank which is having two surplus drains, crosses at the middle portion of the project site. Continuing the same alignment of these channels may cause the disturbance to the function of thermal power plant. At the same time, these surplus discharges are necessary to maintain the ecosystem balance on the downstream side. Hence, design of new canal is required for the safe disposal of surplus without disturbing the functional activity of the power plant. In order to maintain the environmental stability, the surplus is discharged into the existing natural drainage at the downstream of project site. The existing surplus channel originating from the Thirupalaikudi and Valamavur tanks are used where these channels are passing through the project site on the southern side of project site. The surplus canal originating from Thirupalaikudi tank having length 0.64 km confluences to the new canal originating from Valamavur tank having length 0.911 km used to discharge the peak Discharge (m3/s) surplus of 29.75 m3/s. The canal originating from Thirupalaikudi tank has to be constructed for a width of 6 m and depth 0.8 m. Whereas the canal starting from Valamavur tank should has a width of 8 m and depth of 1.0 m. The new alignment of surplus canal is made on the northern part of Valamavur tank and discharges into coastal area. For this new canal the existing bed slope is maintained (1 in 416). The length of new surplus canal is 1.244 km which will carry a peak runoff of 30.17 m3/s. The width and depth of new rectangular canal are 12 m and 1.2 m respectively. This canal will carry the surplus water safely without affecting any operation of the power plant. In addition to that, the surplus water will reach the coastal habitat located on the eastern side of the power plant. Coal transportation/handling

i. If coal is transported through barges: Impact of high volumes of coal handling at jetty or high seas through barges to the coastal areas. Monsoon period is normally high tide, so the rough seas could lead to spillage of coal in sea and pollute Gulf of Mannar which is sensitive area. Some jetties will be located 7.5 km from shore.

The coal requirement is 4.64 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) with 85% PLF by using 100% imported coal and 5.57 MMTPA with 85% PLF blended coal with the ratio of 30% indigenous coal and 70% imported coal as optional. This imported coal will be transported from Tuticorin Port Trust to the project site through the existing railway line from Tuticorin to Ramanathapuram and then by laying a private siding from Ramanathapuram to the project site. TANGEDCO has carried out the feasibility study for transporting the coal from Tuticorin Port to the site through rail route by M/s RITES.

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ii. If coal is transported through rail rakes: Impact of loose shunting of rakes and extent of pilferage and its spillage on land and water bodies.

Feasibility study for transportation of coal done by RITES. The coal will be transported from Tuticorin Port Trust to Ramanathapuram through the existing railway route and then from Ramanathapuram to the Project site through a new 25.8 km railway siding. This will be dedicated line for the project and therefore the issue of loose shunting, pilferage and spillage on land and water bodies is limited. iii. Transportation of coal through conveyors - total length and procedure to avoid

spillage. No transportation using conveyors in the project. Mitigation and Emergency Plans, Health and Safety

i. EMPs, Monitoring requirements etc. Ash Management The bottom ash through dry bottom ash handling system will be used for brick manufacturing and road laying purposes. The radio activity and heavy metals in coal / ash will be tested once the coal source is finalised. The bottom ash is proposed to be disposed in ash dyke which will be lined with Geo-membranes. Hence there will be no impact on the ground water.

- Dust suppression system by water sprinkler at dump hopper of coal. - Control of fugitive emissions from the ash dyke through maintaining a permanent

blanket of water cover over the deposited ash. - Green belt development and afforestation in the plant and surroundings of ash disposal

area and building areas. Wastewater The surface water run-off from the coal stack yard will be led to a sump for settling and the overflow will be utilized for green belt development. The major impact on ground/surface water quality is insignificant as all the wastewater generated from the proposed power plant will be treated in effluent treatment plant and reused for ash management, dust suppression and green belt development. Only the cooling tower blow down and desalination plant brines will be suitably diluted and then let out into sea after ensuring that the temperature and salinity of the outfall water are within the limits. The waste water generation and reuse consists of blow down water, DM regeneration, CPU regeneration, wastewater from floor cleaning of plant area, oil waste water from powerhouse, oil handling area run off, CTBD, sewage treatment plant: a total of 3,574 m3/day. The sludge generated in ETP will be about 28.8 tonnes/day and sludge from STP will be 7.5 tonnes/day. The dried STP sludge will be utilized as manure for green belt development and the ETP sludge will be utilized for land filling in low lying areas. ii. Type of emergency accident management plans in case of spillage of oil/coal etc.

in Gulf of Mannar. The main hazards potential are categorized as below:

• Material hazards: Light Diesel Oil (LDO) and Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) as an auxiliary fuel for start-up and flame stabilization, and coal as the major fuel used in the proposed thermal power plant.

• Process hazards: due to loss of containment during handling of hazardous materials or processes resulting in fire, explosion, etc.

• Mechanical hazards: due to "mechanical" operations such as welding, maintenance, falling objects etc. - basically those NOT connected to hazardous materials.

• Electrical hazards: electrocution, high voltage levels, short circuit, etc. The closest property to the Ash pond is 1 km as in the map below. It is proposed to utilize 100% of the fly ash for which ash utilization plan is ready. During emergency the ash will be disposed off safely in ash pond area. The proposed ash pond area is 138 acres. The average ash dump height is 9.0 m. Bottom ash and unutilized fly ash will be disposed off in the ash pond. To control fugitive dust emission from the ash pond area water layer will be maintained above the ash pond.

Ash pond will be lined with non-permeable membrane HOPE lining will be provided. Epoxy lining will be provided for guard pond to prevent seepage. iii. Accidents and incidents management during construction and operations, health

and work safety measures, community severance issues, and state any non-compliance problems and liabilities.

Besides earthquake, cyclone, flood, arson and sabotage, the possible emergencies that can arise in the plant due to storage and handling of the above materials are: - Explosion in boilers, turbo generators, and transformers. - Heavy leakage and subsequent fire in the fuel oil handling area and storage tanks - Large fires involving the coal stockyard and coal handling areas - Accidental release of huge ash slurry - Chlorine leakage in the water treatment plant - Accidental fire due to some other reasons

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The proposed project site is 1.0 km away from the shoreline and far beyond 100 km from an area where disasters have occurred in the past. The power plant will be established at an elevation of 5.0 m above mean sea level and thick green belt will be developed along the periphery of the project site. Hence, the proposed power plant may not have significant impacts due to natural disasters like tsunami, cyclones. The cyclone atlas is provided in EIA. Other facilities:

i. Review environmental clearance for proposed coal jetty and associated foreshore facilities, and review of marine EIA

The Comprehensive Marine EIA Study was carried out to identify the impacts of outfall of the proposed Coal Based Thermal Power Project in Thiruvadanai Taluk, in Ramanathapuram District on marine environment. The currents in the study area are relatively weaker. During the spring period, the currents could range from 0.02-0.1m/s. The conclusions of the study are as follows:

• Approximately 200 dilution takes place within a distance of 2.5km from the outfall location during flooding tide and ebbing tide.

• The spread of the plume is limited towards south to about 2 km. Hence, it is concluded that a dilution of 200 is possible within a distance of about 2.5 km from outfall.

• The temperatures in the sea will rise by only about 0.5-0.75°C within a radius of 2.5 km. Beyond this, the plume will have ambient conditions.

• The rise in temperature is not likely to cause any alteration in the biotic community of the coastal waters of the project area.

• The pile supported jetty with offshore pump house is recommended since this will cause much lesser disturbance to prevailing marine and seabed environments. Hence the intake and outfall pipeline supported on jetty with the common corridor is recommended with offshore pump house and outfall reservoir respectively. Piles shall be placed at 20-25m c/c along the jetty for minimizing environmental impacts.

• The control of bio-fouling is difficult in buried pipeline as this may clog and reduce the area of flow in the inlet system, hence it is recommended for pipeline on the pile supported jetty.

• The marine water quality and ecology in and around the proposed outfall area is that of any normal coastal environment during the study period in all the seasons.

• The project area has biological features characteristics of any coastal area in the occurrence, abundance and bio diversity of biological community of phytoplankton, zooplankton, benthos and fishes. No rare, endangered, threatened marine species were recorded during marine survey.

• The survey made during periods of June 2013, September 2013 and January 2014 suggests that the physical, chemical and biological parameters exhibited only marginal variation which can be ascribed to seasonal changes. Various results on the chemical and biological parameters indicate that the water is well oxygenated and nutrients are adequate supporting fairly good plankton population, the base in the food chain. Similarly the levels heavy metals and petroleum hydrocarbon were found to be below permissible level.

• For the maintenance of quality of the marine ecology of the study area, critical locations and designated monitoring sites are to be carefully selected for periodic monitoring with respect to marine water, sediment, flora and fauna.

• Regular monitoring of the health of the mangroves in the vicinity of the project area is recommended.

• The outfall of the proposed Uppur Power Project would not change the quality of existing natural coastal environment.

The project site is not defined as wetland as per Ramsar Convention. The site is demarcated under CRZ and it is sited away from CRZ. The authenticated CRZ map prepared by Institute of Remote Sensing, Anna University, Chennai is enclosed in EIA. Moreover, the project site is not defined as wetland as per Ramsar Convention. Intake and Outfall water velocity and shoreline The intake velocity is about 0.15m/s. This is fixed as very low due to sensitivity of the region and requirement of small juvenile fishes to escape intake suction. This velocity is very close to the ambient velocity of tide, which is about 0.1-0.12 m/s. Hence the turbulence generated will be insignificant at the intake. The outfall is provided in such a way to direct the flow into water column. Hence, the sea bed around the diffuser will have minimum impact due to the discharge. The turbidity patterns show up to 8 ppm increase to extent of about 50 m in radius. The diffuser induced turbulence is less than 10% within 5-7 m. The ambient turbulence of seawater will be of the order of 10%. Hence, turbulence will not have any significant impact on the environment. The turbulence near sea bed is less the 3%. This will not cause any sediment movement. Considering Fish escape velocity of 0.15 m/sec, the diameter of Intake Well is fixed as 14 m, with offshore pump house. The location of Intake Well is 5.0 Km from LTL and at 4.0 m water depth. The location of Outfall is 7 km at 5.0 m water depth Erosion However, establishment of the project will not have any impact on the coastal erosion, since the cooling water intake and outfall pipelines are proposed to be laid over Jetty. The support columns will be placed 16m c/c. The Jetty will not block the littoral drift of the coastal waters. Based on the Report prepared by Institute for Ocean Management, Anna University, for MOEF/GOI, it is seen that a portion of the coast near Morpannai village has high erosion. Hence as a part of CSR Activity, TANGEDCO has proposed to construct a Sea Wall of 500 m in the village. Surface Water Tanks The core zone, ie., the Project Boundary of the Uppur Thermal Power Project does not contain any tank. However, the Buffer zone of the project area has 37 tanks. The tanks are dry for most of the year. Only during rainy season, the tanks get filled. The entire water is used up for irrigation before the next rainy season. The tanks are not perennial water sources and hence there will not be any impact on the flora and fauna in the Tanks. TANGEDCO has conducted Geo-hydrological Study of the Project area through Anna University and the report has given proposal for desilting and proposes to increase the depth of tanks for increasing the storage capacity. This increase in capacity will improve the irrigation activity as well as economic status of the people surrounding the tanks. The de-silted volume of soil can be used for filling the project site. Based on the design hydrograph, the peak flood discharge can be easily stored within the tanks on the upstream of the project site itself. Impact of flood discharge to the project site is very less. Further, flood discharge can be safely discharged into the Nayar River and drained to Bay of Bengal. Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) There shall be no construction or development in the project site falling in CRZ-I. The construction shall strictly be as per the provisions of CRZ Notification, 2011. Filing activities shall be avoided during post monsoon period (January to March period), when regeneration of seagrasses takes place immediately after the North East Monsoon. There shall be no disposal of solid waste including the construction waste in CRZ and in the seagrass area. The location of storages of construction material and labour camps shall be away from the CRZ. There shall no ground water drawl within CRZ. There shall be online monitoring of the

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temperature and gradients at the discharge point and at a distance of 1.5 km from the final discharge point in the sea. Marine Water & Sediment Quality: The frequency of monitoring shall be once in a season. Detailed studies to be conducted to study the phytoplankton population, genetic diversity, zooplankton biomass, population and group density, macro-benthic biomass, population and group diversity, Marine water and sediment samples will also be analysed for the all designated biological parameters.

ii. Review of other facilities if information is available: i) Green Belt requirements, number of trees felling due to projects, compensatory afforestation status, any gap or improvement, ii) rehabilitation of borrow areas, (iii) soil erosion control measures, embankment protection measures, (iv) re development of quarry areas, (v) restoration of camp sites and plant sites, (vi) suspected land/groundwater contamination, and (vii) impact on sensitive receptors

Green Belt Detailed green belt with native species will be developed around plant boundary. The width of green belt around 50-100 m will be maintained with 3 tiers in the plant site. The tree density of 2000 per ha with 80% survival rate of plant species will be maintained. Photographs along with satellite imageries of the plant site will be submitted before and after green belt development. Green Belt will be developed in an area of 275 acres in the proposed project site. In addition to that plantation will be carried out around the plant boundary. There is no forest land in 10 km radius of study area. 2.4 Monitoring requirements a. Review third party/NGO monitoring requirements according to national

requirements No third party review recommended by the EIA. b. Review compliance requirements for EMP implementation According to the EIA approval, the following requirements need to be met for which no reports are provided:

- Harnessing solar power within the premises of the plant particularly at available roof tops shall be carried out and status of implementation including actual generation of solar power shall be submitted along with half yearly monitoring report.

The following requirement will be met in the future by TANGEDCO:

- A long term study of radio activity and heavy metals contents on coal to be used shall be carried out through a reputed institute and results thereof analysed every two year and reported along with monitoring reports

- Assessment of Occupational health as endemic diseases of environmental origin will be carried out after commission of the plant.

- Smaller version of DMP will be prepared in English & Tamil languages and made available after execution of the project.

- Scheme for regeneration and preservation of village ponds in the study area shall be formulated.

- Mangrove conservation and regeneration plan will be formulated. • Mangrove Monitoring Program for management of potential impacts on mangrove

vegetation will consist of: Mangrove mapping; Mangrove health surveys; and Monitoring of any sediment accumulation within mangrove vegetation associations; and Assessment of the potential for changes in soil salinity in the vicinity of the infrastructure corridor. Mangrove Mapping: Aerial photography and

field surveys will be used to map the distribution and coverage of mangrove vegetation associations situated near the project footprint. Aerial photography will be ortho-rectified to allow for determination of mangrove cover. Mangrove mapping will be undertaken prior to the commencement of the project to provide current information on mangrove distribution; at project milestones including the completion of clearing activities within the infrastructure corridor; and on completion of the project. Mangrove distribution and cover will be compared to the baseline data to confirm that the area of direct disturbance of mangrove habitat does not exceed the approved limits.

• Mangrove health surveys will be undertaken in an effort to ensure that any negative impacts are detected as soon as possible. Regular visual assessments to determine mangrove condition; and detailed mangrove health surveys prior to dredging, after six months (following commencement of construction) and on completion of the project. Mangrove monitoring sites will be established prior to the commencement of construction activities.

- A common Green Endowment Fund will be created so as to improve the green cove in and around proposed plant site. Surplus channels being realigned to ensure that creeks flow back to original route after crossing the plant.

Burrowing in/around project sites EIA clearance notes that burrowing of earth to be avoided and effort to balance cutting and filling and also to explore the possibility of making an embankment without raising the level of project site. The site is flat terrain and requires minor levelling. No marshy lands are situated near the project. A detailed Hydrogeological study has been done by Anna University, Chennai for regeneration and preservation of village tanks and for diversion of minor canals/natural drains in the study area. Additional soil for levelling of the project site will be procured from the desilting of tanks of surrounding project area. Deepening the area marked for ash dyke and use the cutting earth for filling to reduce burrowing of earth in nearby areas. Air Quality It is proposed to monitor particulate emission qualitatively and quantitatively in the stack and with the aid of a continuous particulate stack monitoring system. The stack monitoring data would be utilized to keep a continuous check on the performance of ESPs. Effluent Quality in Plant

Source of Effluent Frequency of analysis

Parameters for Examination

Ash dyke area Weekly pH, suspended solids, oil and grease, chromium, zinc, iron, manganese, nickel

Effluent quality in Guard Pond & Neutralization pit

Weekly pH, suspended solids, oil and grease, copper, Iron

c. Review requirements for environmental monitoring reports and institutional

arrangement in place for implementation and monitoring of EMP Sea water quality shall be continuously monitored for salinity, turbidity and temperature at selective sites across the impacted zone including estuarine waters. Mitigation measures shall be undertaken for continuous preservation of mangroves and their ecology. The monitoring data shall be uploaded on the company's website and also submitted to Regional Office of the Ministry every six months. CDM 0.941 tones CO2/MWhr (based on CDM Executive Board approved methodology ACM0013 Ver 01). The amount of CO2 expected to be reduced is 1.15 million Tonnes/year. This shall

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be updated during the development of PIN and POD for the project. No other details are available. d. Review report on Environment related CSR (corporate social responsibility)

activities planned. Rs. 38.00 Crores earmarked under CSR program for the benefit of community in the vicinity of the project to improve standard of living. Several measures include: • Drinking water supply to the nearby villages around the project area • Desilting tanks / ponds around the project area • Augmentation of facilities in nearby Schools, Anganwadis and Public Health Centres • Provision of Community Halls, fish auction halls, net mending sheds, fish drying platforms

etc. • Fishermen welfare fund • Women self-help group fund • Roads, streetlights and toilet facilities augmentation Fishing vessels The intake/outfall pipelines will be laid over RCC Deck supported by concrete pillars. Height of Deck above Chart Datum will be 7.5 m and this will ensure free movement of fishing vessels. e. Any recommended mitigation measures, if gaps are identified. After review, state

any risk control or mitigation measures to be taken by the project. Public consultation comment: The project area consists of 37 tanks and the overflow during flood times will reach sea. But the EIA Report does not contain any details about the effect of emissions from the power plant on the flora and fauna in these tanks. f. Adequacy of measures to avoid adverse impacts (measures to mitigate and

minimize adverse impacts, monitoring and reporting, institutional arrangement, budget)

Disaster Management Disaster Management Plan (DMP) along with risk assessment study including fire and explosion issues due to storage and use of fuel were carried out. The maximum inventory of storage at site at any point of time was considered for the study. The risk contours were plotted on plant layout map. The proposed safeguard measures against fire hazards are provided. The measures against natural calamities such as Tsunami/Cyclones/Storm Surges are included in DMP. The DMP is containing on-site and off-site emergency plans, likely disaster occurrence and specifically mentioned personnel identified for the task. The proposed project is in Seismic Zone-II as per IS: 1893-2002 BIS. Institutional Arrangements at HQ level TANGEDCO has established one Environment Management Cell at its Headquarters, comprising one Executive Engineer, three Assistant Executive Engineers, one Assistant Engineer and one Chemist and its functions are as follows: To obtain all Statutory Environmental, Coastal Regulation Zone and Aviation clearances for the State Sector Power Projects from the controlling authorities viz., Ministry of Environment and Forests/Government of India, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board/ State Environment & Forests Department and Airports Authority of India, including preparation of Environment Impact Assessment and Environment Management Plan. Conducting Ambient Air Quality Survey, Stack Emission Test, Effluent Analysis, Noise level measurements and study of General Environmental Conditions in all the TANGEDCOs Thermal Power Stations (coal and gas based) annually. The team of engineers and chemist go on camp for 10 days each to every Thermal Power Station for conducting the above survey and environmental study.

2.5 Consultation, Grievance Redress a. Adequacy of information disclosure and meaningful consultation. Socio Economic Study, the Consultants, M/s. Madras School of Social Work have conducted direct household interviews, key informants interviews and cluster level focus group discussions regarding the Project. The above interviews have been held in the villages which fall in both core zone and buffer zone of the Project area, which includes Thiruppalaikudi and Morpannai villages. b. Review broad community support, and whether there are complaints from the

public or local communities on the project company’s environmental performance.

The public hearing was held on 04.07.2014 at 10:00 AM in Bharathi Thirumanmdapam, Devipattinam, Ramanathapuram district for the project of TANGEDCO, Uppur Thermal Power Plant at Uppur, Thirupalaikudi, and Valamavur village of Thiruvadanal Taluk, Ramanathapuram district. Public Hearing Issues:

- Type of trees in green belt to be listed. - Effect on agriculture due to acquisition not determined. - Land for Land and increase compensation 4 times/vs 20 times of compensation

requested. - Add names of Valamavoor and Thiruppalaikudi village in affected villages. - 30 villages around project are rice bowl of Ramanathapuram, land acquisition must be

under new Act. - 10000 persons are fishing with help of small country boats. Emission from power plant

will affect fish development and hence fishermen livelihood. - Details of CO emission, (well within the limits of 4 mg/m3). - Improve infrastructure of the villages affected. - Due to the discharge of treated effluent, which will contain heat and salinity at the

discharge point will negatively affect fish growth. This will affect the livelihood of the fishermen in the area.

- Sea shallow near project site and biodiversity may be affected. Ramanathapuram District has very longest coastal area and the plankton food for fish is available in plenty in the sea, will be affected by the waste water let out by the power plant.

- Employment to the local people will not be possible in the Thermal Power Plant as it required more technical skills.

- The EIA Report is not covering the site selection criteria given by Central Pollution Control Board like the Thermal Power Plant should not be located within 15 km from any residential area, 5 km away from any NH or 10 km from any tourist or eco-sensitive area.

- There is major chance for discharge of chemicals into sea which are used in the water treatment and therefore micro-organisms, fish growth will be affected.

- The possibility of acid rain will increase due to the SO2 emission - Agriculture will get affected due to the water scarcity. The alternate plan for satisfying

water demand in case of failure of desalination plant is not available. - Details of solar power usage inside the plant are not available. - The details of water flow pattern in case of over flow of tanks are not available. - The disposal details of ash are not available. - The waste water generation points are not given in detail. - The list of industries in the nearby locations is not available. - The details on heavy metal management and radiation are not available. - The details of railway line proposal are not given.

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- The Natural Disaster Management Report is not available. - The report on Mangrove forest protection is not available. - The details with respect to the effect on the fisheries are not available. - At public consultation, participant informed that around 150m of Ramnad district, the

coastal shore already got eroded and this EIA Report is not having cumulative effect about the coastal erosion.

- M/s. Madras School of Social Work have conducted direct household interviews, Key informants interviews with District level officials, President of the SHG/ President of the Village level association, Block Development Office/ President GP/ Ward member GP/ ICDS-Teacher/ School Headmaster/Head mistress, etc., Cluster level focus group discussions with Women/Self Help Group/ Village level committee/Youth groups/salt pan groups, etc., to get quality data on the community needs. Only based on the Community Needs Assessment, TANGEDCO has fixed the budget for CSR Activity CSR The project cost is Rs. 9600 crores and 0.4% will be provided budget for CSR activities. Rs.38.00crores as capital cost and 3.00 crore as annual recurring cost will be earmarked for the activities to be taken up under CSR in consultation with Local bodies and Revenue department/Government of Tamil Nadu. The following needs for the community are: • Renovation of schools, PHCs, Anganwadis • Toilet facilities • Community halls • Infrastructure facilities • Auction halls for fishermen, fish net mending shed, fish drying platform, berth for boat

anchoring purpose for fishermen • Youth training development programmes • Protection wall for about 500m in Morepannai village shore • Regular health camps • Desilting of village tanks • Laying roads, street lights Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Budget

No. Particulars Amount (Rs. In Lakhs)

1. Drinking water supply 1034.00

2. Augmentation of School Facilities 300.00

3. Augmentation of Anganwadi Facilities 80.00

4. Augmentation of PHC Facilities 125.00

5. Toilet facilities 200.00

6. Community halls 150.00

7. Auction halls, net mending sheds, fish drying platforms 120.00

8. Sea wall in Morepannai villaqe 100.00

9. Youth training programmes 100.00

10. Library, playground, gym 200.00

11. Roads, street lights 500.00

12. De-silting of Tanks in the study area 600.00

13. Women Empowerment Group 60.00

14. Fishermen Welfare fund 200.00

Total 3769.00 - 3800.00

c. Adequacy of grievance redress mechanism arrangements

Community needs assessment conducted by Madras School of Social Work, Chennai – detailed assessment of impact on livelihood of local communities within 10 km study area. The sociological aspects of this study include human settlements, demography, and social strata such as Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and literacy levels besides infrastructure facilities available in the study area. The economic aspects include occupational structure of workers. The Baseline Demographic and Socio economic characteristics with regards to demography, literacy and occupational status have been described based on the Primary Census Abstract, 2001. The relevant details of the Infrastructure Facilities have also been gathered from the Primary Census Abstract, 2001.

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3. Environment Action Plan Based on the gap analysis above, an Environmental Action Plan (Table 2) has been prepared to monitor independently the implementation of Uppur TPS.

Table 2. Uppur Project Environmental Action Plan (EAP) No. Recommended Action Risk

Ranking Involved Parties Objectives and

Deliverables Timeframe for Completion

1.

Establish Joint committee between TANTRANSCO, TANGENDCO with TA funded Environment consultant as working team member during construction period in advisory role.

Low

Uppur EPC construction company (s) and TANTRANSCO GCC and Loan funded Environment Consultant

Collect reports on Environmental monitoring during construction and suggest suitable adaptation measures if any adverse impact is noticed

Within 90 days of loan effective

2. TANTRANSCO and TANGEDCO share project monitoring reports as relevant to Power Evacuation

Low Uppur TPS and TANTRANSCO GCC

Environmental monitoring reports for operations

90 days prior to operation

Appendix 1

Terms of Reference of Environmental Due Diligence Report Thermal Power Projects in Tamil Nadu, India

Introduction a. Project description: title, type of project, location and setting, amount, size (capacity, number of

staff, etc.). b. Environmental categorization and rationale. c. Applicable Environmental Requirements – national and international best practises. Scope of review and methodology a. Secondary documents reviewed (e.g., environmental assessment reports, copies of

permits/licenses). b. Methodology adopted (Site visit, inspection report, etc.). No primary data will be collected. c. Review of Special conditions: Technology used by power plant is one of them. The use of

different technologies can produce large differences in environmental impact (e.g. subcritical versus supercritical boilers in thermal power plants).

d. Status of Environmental Safeguards Standards followed: a. appropriate identification of major anticipated environmental impacts and risks b. adequacy of environmental assessment (for category A projects, including the adequacy of

alternative analysis). c. compliance status with applicable national regulatory requirements on (i) information disclosure,

(ii) consultation with affected people and other stakeholders, (iii) occupational and community health and safety, biodiversity conservation and sustainable natural (iv) resource management, and physical cultural resources (v) adequacy of mitigation measures and EMP (mitigation measures, monitoring and reporting, institutional arrangement, budget), or corrective action plan for existing facilities, if any

Examination of Environmental Impact: a. Examine issues in terms of environmental impacts, mitigation measures and compliance requirements applicable ADB environmental requirements and national laws, regulations, and standards. b. Review of the following information from all published and available reports from secondary sources for the following items: 1. Air quality v. Air dispersion modelling - Impact on air emissions from stacks due to numerous merchant power

plants. Dust disposal procedure from ESP, other filters. vi. Open yard storage of coal – list of measures taken to reduce air pollution due to high wind

velocity. vii. Disposal of ash at Ash dyke’s from fly ash plants. MOUs with private parties on Fly ash

utilization. viii. Air condenser – details of estimated heat dissipation to the atmosphere. 2. Water Availability iii. Procedure of generating DM water which will be obtained from captive R.O Plant. iv. Impact on water allocation from TWAD or private suppliers drawing from ground water through

tankers. Water for local consumption may be diverted to Coal plants and may raise prices for locals due to huge demand of water from power plants.

3. Water Disposal/Impact on Marine/Human Life

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vi. Disposal of brine and waste into sea, on land disposal sites of DM plant wastes from thermal plants.

vii. Impact to aquatic and human life in the vicinity of the outfall. Impact of blow down water on marine life in the outfall area. Disposal of brine into the sea from plant – quantities and level of dilution. Marine/CRZ clearance for permissible facilities required for the power plant. Review fish data at the intake water side.

viii. Existence of any coral reefs and algal patches – review available marine ecology studies in the Marine EIA if available. Review the impact on Mangroves and water temperature and quality in creek in outfall area also.

ix. Potential impact on Gulf of Mannar National Park –as Gulf of Mannar/Palk Strait is a sensitive area. CRZ clearance to be reviewed for clearance requirements and approvals for permissible facilities required for the power plant.

x. Review reported statements of affected fishermen at the intake and outlet water channels. Note enhancement of any community assets, provision of any facility out of public demand.

4. Coal transportation/handling iv. If coal is transported through barges: Impact of high volumes of coal handling at jetty or high

seas through barges to the coastal areas. Monsoon period is normally high tide, so the rough seas could lead to spillage of coal in sea and pollute Gulf of Mannar which is sensitive area. Some jetties will be located 7.5 km from shore.

v. If coal is transported through rail rakes: Impact of loose shunting of rakes and extent of pilferage and its spillage on land and water bodies.

vi. Transportation of coal through conveyors - total length and procedure to avoid spillage. 5. Mitigation and Emergency Plans, Health and Safety iv. EMPs, Monitoring requirements etc. v. Type of emergency accident management plans in case of spillage of oil/coal etc. in Gulf of

Mannar. vi. accidents and incidents management during construction and operations, health and work

safety measures, community severance issues, and state any non-compliance problems and liabilities.

6. Other facilities: iii. Review environmental clearance for proposed coal jetty and associated foreshore facilities, and

review of marine EIA iv. Review of other facilities if information is available: i) Green Belt requirements, number of trees

felling due to projects, compensatory afforestation status, any gap or improvement, ii) rehabilitation of borrow areas, (iii) soil erosion control measures, embankment protection measures, (iv) re development of quarry areas, (v) restoration of camp sites and plant sites, (vi) suspected land/groundwater contamination, and (vii) impact on sensitive receptors

Monitoring requirements a. Review third party/NGO monitoring requirements according to national requirements b. Review compliance requirements for EMP implementation c. Review requirements for environmental monitoring reports and institutional arrangement in

place for implementation and monitoring of EMP d. Review report on Environment related CSR (corporate social responsibility) activities planned. e. Any recommended mitigation measures, if gaps are identified. After review, state any risk

control or mitigation measures to be taken by the project. f. adequacy of measures to avoid adverse impacts (measures to mitigate and minimize adverse

impacts, monitoring and reporting, institutional arrangement, budget) Consultation, Grievance Redress a. Adequacy of information disclosure and meaningful consultation.

b. Review broad community support, and whether there are complaints from the public or local communities on the project company’s environmental performance.

d. Adequacy of grievance redress mechanism arrangements