Post on 02-Mar-2023
INDIA INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCE COMPANY
LIMITED
ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARDS DUE DILIGENCE REPORT (50 MW Solar PV Project’ of Welspun Solar AP Private Limited, Jodhpur, Rajasthan)
WELSPUN SOLAR AP PRIVATE LIMITED
September 2013
Pub
lic D
iscl
osur
e A
utho
rized
Pub
lic D
iscl
osur
e A
utho
rized
Pub
lic D
iscl
osur
e A
utho
rized
Pub
lic D
iscl
osur
e A
utho
rized
Pub
lic D
iscl
osur
e A
utho
rized
Pub
lic D
iscl
osur
e A
utho
rized
Pub
lic D
iscl
osur
e A
utho
rized
Pub
lic D
iscl
osur
e A
utho
rized
I
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards I
CONTENTS
1. PURPOSE OF THE REPORT ..................................................................................................... 1
2. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................... 1
3. APPRECIATION OF THE SUB-PROJECT ................................................................................ 1
3.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................................................................................. 1 3.1.1 Site Setting ................................................................................................................................... 2 3.1.2 Technology & Design ................................................................................................................... 4 3.1.3 Solar PV modules ......................................................................................................................... 5 3.1.4 Power Conditioning Units (PCU)/ Inverters .................................................................................. 5 3.1.5 Circuit Breakers ............................................................................................................................ 5 3.1.6 Transformer .................................................................................................................................. 5 3.1.7 Cabling ......................................................................................................................................... 5 3.1.8 Control Room ............................................................................................................................... 6 3.1.9 Power Evacuation ........................................................................................................................ 6 3.1.10 Energy Yield Prediction ................................................................................................................ 6 3.1.11 Operation and Maintenance ......................................................................................................... 6 3.1.12 Manpower ..................................................................................................................................... 6 3.1.13 Utilities and Infrastructure ............................................................................................................. 6
4. APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY ......................................................................................... 7
4.1 ACTIVITY1: PROJECT SITE VISIT ................................................................................................................................................ 7 4.2 ACTIVITY2: CONSULTATION WITH DEVELOPER ............................................................................................................... 7 4.3 ACTIVITY-3: PREPARATION OF EDDR ..................................................................................................................................... 7 4.4 ACTIVITY 4: JOINT SITE VISIT WITH THE WORLD BANK AND UPDATING DDR ................................................... 8 4.5 SCOPE OF WORKS............................................................................................................................................................................. 8
5. ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE OF THE PROJECT SITE ........................................................ 8
5.1 TERRAIN ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 5.2 LAND USE ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 9 5.3 SURFACE WATER ............................................................................................................................................................................. 9
5.3.1 Interpretation of Surface Water Quality Results ........................................................................... 9 5.4 GROUNDWATER ............................................................................................................................................................................... 9 5.5 CLIMATE & METEOROLOGY ....................................................................................................................................................... 9 5.6 AIR AND NOISE QUALITY ........................................................................................................................................................... 10 5.7 SOIL ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
5.7.1 Interpretation of soil testing results ............................................................................................. 10 5.8 SEISMIC HAZARD ........................................................................................................................................................................... 10 5.9 GEOLOGY ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 10 5.10 HYDROGEOLOGY ........................................................................................................................................................................... 11 5.11 ECOLOGY ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
5.11.1 Floral Diversity ............................................................................................................................ 11 5.11.2 Faunal Diversity .......................................................................................................................... 11 5.11.3 Ecologically Sensitive Area ........................................................................................................ 11
5.12 SOCIO ECONOMIC PROFILE ....................................................................................................................................................... 11 5.13 DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE ............................................................................................................................................................. 12
5.13.1 Education and Literacy ............................................................................................................... 12 5.13.2 Economic Activity and Livelihood Pattern ................................................................................... 12
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
II
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards II
6. ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARD DUE DILIGENCE .............................................................. 12
6.1 POLICY, LEGAL AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................. 12 6.1.1 Legal Setting .............................................................................................................................. 13 6.1.2 Policy Setting .............................................................................................................................. 14 6.1.3 Other Legislations Applicable to Construction Activities: ............................................................ 14 6.1.4 Compliance to Clearance Requirements .................................................................................... 15
6.2 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES – SITE SELECTION ........................................................................................................... 15 6.3 ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & MITIGATION MEASURES ........................................................ 16
6.3.1 During Construction Activities ..................................................................................................... 16 6.3.2 During Operational Activities ...................................................................................................... 21 6.3.3 Decommissioning Phase ............................................................................................................ 22
6.4 PUBLIC CONSULTATION DURING PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION STAGE ...................................................... 22 6.5 ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN ................................................................................................................ 23
6.5.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan ................................................................................................... 28
7. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS .................................................................................. 29
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Project Highlights ................................................................................................................................................................. 1
Table 2: Statutory clearance required and present status of clearance .............................................................................................. 15
Table 3: Key outcomes of the Consultations during Planning and Construction stages ................................................................... 22
Table 4: Key Outcomes of the Consultations during Planning and Construction stages................................................................... 23
Table 5: Environmental Mitigation Action Plan ............................................................................................................................... 23
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Project Location .................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Figure 2: Project Site Layout – 50mw Solar Power Plant ................................................................................................................... 4
Figure 3: Grid Connected System – Basic System Design ................................................................................................................. 5
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix 1: CTE under Water Act
Appendix 2: CTO under Water Act
Appendix 3a & b: MOEF Memorandum
Appendix 4: Tree cutting
Appendix 5: Ground Water Guidelines
Appendix 6: Site Plan including Landscaping Plan
Appendix 7: Plantation Plan
Appendix 8: EHS Policy
Appendix 9: Occupational Health & Safety
Appendix 10 : Corporate Social Responsibility
Appendix 11 a & b: Contract between WSAPPL & Karnimata Construction Company
Appendix 12: Quarterly Compliance Report to RPCB
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
III
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards III
ABBREVIATIONS
CGWA : Central Ground Water Authority
CRZ : Coastal Regulation Zone
CSR : Corporate Social Responsibility
CTE : Consent to Establish
CTO : Consent to Operate
DFO : Divisional Forest Officer
EDDR : Environmental Due Diligence Report
EHS&S : Environmental, Health, Safety & Sustainability
ESIA : Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Report
ESSF : Environmental and Social Safeguards Framework
IIFCL : India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
JNNSM : Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission
LASA : LEA Associates South Asia Private Limited
MoEF : Ministry of Environment & Forests
NAAQS : National Ambient Air Quality Standards
NVVN : NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited
O&M : Operation and Maintenance
OHS : Occupation Health and Safety
PPA : Power Purchase Agreements
PPE : Personal Protective Equipment
RoW : Right of Way
RREC : Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation
RSPCB : Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board
RVPNL : Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Prasaran Nigam Ltd.
SEIAA State Environment Impact Assessment Authority
ST : Scheduled Caste
WSAPPL : Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
1
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 1
ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARD DUE DILIGENCE
1. PURPOSE OF THE REPORT
1. This Environmental Due Diligence report has been carried out by India Infrastructure Finance
Company Limited (IIFCL) in consultation with the Project Developer, Welspun Solar AP Private Ltd.
(WSAPPL) (50MW at Phalodi) to assess the adequacy of the project with the applicable National and
World Bank Social Safeguard policies. The report has been prepared as per the documents received from
project developer and site visit observations.
2. IIFCL as part of its infrastructure scheme has approved Rs 80.00 Cr. to Welspun Solar AP Private
Ltd. (WSAPPL) out of the total project cost of Rs 472.68 Cr. Out of the approved Rs 80.00 Cr., IIFCL has
already disbursed Rs 79.53 Cr. to WSAPPL.
3. World Bank has sanctioned US$ 195 million line of credit to IIFCL to encourage flow of private
investments into infrastructure. The sub-project has been considered for refinancing by IIFCL from
Bank’s line of credit. In order to be eligible for funding from the WB loan facility, IIFCL has prepared the
Environmental Due Diligence Report (EDDR) for the sub-projects on behalf of WSAPPL, and all the
information given in the EDDR is agreed by WSAPPL.
2. INTRODUCTION
4. India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) has retained LEA Associates South Asia
Private Limited (LASA) as Consultant for the review of sub-projects from social, environmental,
procurement, technical and legal perspectives for its credit review process and post-sanction monitoring of
sub-projects. LASA has been carrying out detailed due diligence of sub-projects to be financed by IIFCL
in order to ensure that the sub-projects comply with social safeguard operational policies of the World
Bank. This is the due diligence report on environmental safeguards for the sub-project ‘50 MW Solar PV
Project’ of Welspun Solar AP Private Limited (WSAPPL).
3. APPRECIATION OF THE SUB-PROJECT
3.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
5. WSAPPL is in the process of establishing a 50 MW Solar Photovoltaic Power plant at Phalodi
Taluka of Jodhpur district in Rajasthan. The solar plant will be based on advanced PV technology with
highest conversion efficiency, wherein solar energy is converted directly into electricity. The Project will
be developed under Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) and will generate 91.98 million
units of electricity every year. The entire power generated from the project will be purchased by NTPC
Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited (NVVN) through state DISCOM. The life of the project is 25 years and the
proposed land will be leased from Government of Rajasthan for a period of 30 years. Three separate power
purchase agreements (PPA) will be signed with NVVN to this effect and the PPA will be based on the
Tariffs offered by WSAPPL in the JNNSM bidding and will be applicable for the entire life of the Plant.
Summary of project information is provided in Table 1.
Table 1: Project Highlights
Sl. No. Parameter Information
1 Project Owner Welspun Solar AP (P)Limited
2 Project Capacity 50 MW
3 Technology Photovoltaic
4 Total Investment Rs 472.68 cr
5 Generation per annum 91.98 million units
6 Capacity Utilization Factor 21%
7 Project Life 25 years
8 Tariff Period 25 years
9 Debt Equity Ratio 75:25
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
2
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 2
10 Construction Period 12 months
11 Commercial Operation Date 26th February 2013
12 Levelized Tariff for 25 years
20 MW @ Rs 7.97/kwh
15MW @ Rs 8.05 /kwh
15MW @ Rs 8.14 /kwh
13 Power Evacuation RVPNL
14 Project Site Kanasar and Rawra Village in Phalodi Teshsil, Jodhpur District
15 Total area 1080 bigha1
16 Type of land Government land allotted by Government of Rajasthan
17 Ecologically Sensitive Area No legally notified ecologically sensitive area viz national parks, wild life
sanctuaries etc. existing within 10km radius of the project site
18 Site coordinates Between latitude 270-06 to 270-09 North and 720-20 to 720-23 East
Source: Information Memorandum, 2012. Welspun Solar AP Private Ltd.
3.1.1 Site Setting
6. The proposed project site lies in Phalodi Tehsil of Jodhpur District which is surrounded by Bikaner,
Nagaur and Jaisalmer Districts. This area forms a part of the Thar Desert region. The altitude of the site is
270 meters above MSL. The total area of the proposed project site is 350 acres. It is well connected by
roads and railways. National Highway NH-15 (Pathankot-Kandla) and State Highway SH-2 (Jodhpur-
Jaisalmer) passes through Phalodi town. The nearest railway station is Phalodi RS located at a distance of
38 kms from the project site in southeast direction. The proposed project site is levelled and favourable for
setting up a solar PV plant. Figure 1 shows the location of the project site. The project site layout plan is
shown in Figure 2.
1 ~ 350 acres
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
3
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 3
Figure 1: Project Location
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
4
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 4
Figure 2: Project Site Layout – 50mw Solar Power Plant
3.1.2 Technology & Design
7. The proposed 50 MW solar power plant is of Grid Connected System type, producing a large
quantity of photovoltaic electricity at a single point.
8. The system consists mainly of the following:
Solar PV array – Solar PV arrays are used to produce DC electricity when solar rays are incident on it.
Power Conditioning Units (PCU) – PCU helps in converting DC (Direct Current) electricity into AC
(Alternating Current) electricity and facilitate synchronization with the grid power.
Transformers – which transform the AC output of the Power Conditioning Units to the level required at
the grid.
9. A grid connected SPV power plant consist mainly of the following components:
Solar PV Modules
Module Mounting System
Power Conditioning Units/Inverters
Circuit Breakers
Transformers
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
5
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 5
Figure 3: Grid Connected System – Basic System Design
3.1.3 Solar PV modules
10. A solar photovoltaic module is constructed from individual solar cells. Modules connected in series
are known as strings. The strings are connected to the String Monitoring Units (SMUs) and the SMUs are
connected to the PCUs which convert DC to AC power supply.
11. Thin film type PV modules will be used in the proposed project having south facing orientation,
tilted at 22° from the horizontal plain to maximize the total annual incident solar irradiation.
12. The course of the transmission line will be selected based on techno-economic feasibility.
3.1.4 Power Conditioning Units (PCU)/ Inverters
13. The Power Conditioning Units used in grid connect SPV systems consist of an inverter and other
electronics for MPPT, Synchronization and remote monitoring. Inverter is the most complicated part of the
PV system. It has to act as the interface between the PV array and the Grid.
3.1.5 Circuit Breakers
14. The circuit breaker will be restrike free under all duty conditions and will be capable of breaking-
magnetizing current of transformer and capacitive current of unloaded overhead lines without causing over
voltages of abnormal magnitudes.
3.1.6 Transformer
15. The AC power from the PCUs are fed into lower voltage panel and then to transformers through
isolators and circuit breakers. Transformers have been selected to operate at maximum efficiency and
withstand a maximum temperature rise of 50°C with a daily average ambient temperature at 45°C.
3.1.7 Cabling
16. Modules will be interconnected to form a string of modules using these leads. For further
connections, single core, 6mm2 multi-stranded copper cables will be used to connect the strings to the
String Monitoring Unit (SMU). These cables will be cross-linked polyethylene insulated with ultraviolet
(UV) and temperature resistant solar grade cables.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
6
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 6
3.1.8 Control Room
17. The objective of control room will be to house all electronic equipments like PCUs, low voltage
panels, high voltage panels, metering and protection, etc.
3.1.9 Power Evacuation
18. Power will be evacuated from proposed 50 MW solar power plant to electric sub-station at Bap
village. The SPV array (constituting solar PV modules of selected rating connected in series to build up the
required voltage in parallel to build up the required current) of the designed DC power produces DC
electricity when Solar insolation is incident on it. The DC power thus produced is taken through various
junction and isolators and connected to the PCU.
19. The PCU houses the inverter circuitry which converts DC power supply into AC power supply, the
synchronization circuitry which actualizes the tie-up of solar PV source to the grid source and the remote
monitoring and control circuitry. A number of PCUs are connected in parallel to buildup the required AC
power, and combiners permit AC output power at 3 Ph, 315 V, 50 Hz to be fed into transformers. Power
generated will be stepped up to 132 kV level and from the switchboard located in main control room, will
be evacuated to sub-station through overhead transmission line.
3.1.10 Energy Yield Prediction
20. Total annual generation from the 50 MW Power plant is expected to reach 92,166 MWh.
3.1.11 Operation and Maintenance
21. Depending on the O&M requirements, the firm will make necessary arrangements for proper
implementation of O&M. During the commissioning of the plant, training will be imparted to the Engineer,
Supervisor and Operators. Theme of the training will be according to the plant’s O&M manual. This
operational training will cover (i) the nature, purpose and limitations of all plant and equipment; (ii) the
detailed operating instructions on each section and equipment of the plant; and (iii) the emergency
procedures and all related HSE issues according to the standards.
3.1.12 Manpower
22. The proposed 50 MW power plant proposed to create employment opportunity for approximately
600 persons during construction phase and approximately 15 persons during operation phase at the project
site. During the construction phase, a labor camp was organized with relevant capacity, facilities including
sanitation. Since the project is now in operational phase, there is no longer a labor camp and currently
employed persons have their own arrangements of stay.
3.1.13 Utilities and Infrastructure
23. Water is mainly required to clean up the module during the operation phase. Assuming a minimum
of 2 to 3 liters of water per module, the water requirement for cleaning of the whole plant (4,31,950
modules) and other needs is around 12,95,850 liters. However, the cleaning of modules will be undertaken
once in 30 days. Annual requirement will be around 1, 55, 50,200 litres of water.
24. For solar module cleaning, 3 PVC tanks (each of 10 cum) are proposed to be provided and built at a
suitable location. Near the tanks, pump (of capacity 10 cum/hr) will be provided which will pump water
into piping network that will be laid around the plant having pipe tapping at regular intervals.
25. Power: A minimal LT power is required for the project at the time of plant construction. Estimated
power requirement for project is 100 kW.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
7
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 7
4. APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY
26. The EDDR reviews the available documents and assesses the compliance of the subproject with
respect to (i) regulatory clearances (environmental clearance, forest clearance, etc.), (ii) Environmental
safeguards as per Environment and Social safeguard framework (ESSF) of IIFCL and applicable
operational policies of World Bank (iii) analysis of alternatives; (iv) the process of identifying
environmental impacts and integration of environmental management measures; (v) public consultation
and information disclosure etc. The approach adopted for the preparation of EDDR are as follows:
4.1 ACTIVITY1: PROJECT SITE VISIT
27. A site visit was conducted by the DDR consultant on 20th Dec 2012 to
(i) appreciate the project site and environmental conditions and understanding key environmental issues
including: presence of any ecological hot spots like sanctuaries and wildlife areas in the vicinity of the
project site ;
(ii) interaction with project authorities
(iii) understand the environment management measures undertaken, details pertaining to project team to
implement such measures;
(iv) assess the health and safety practices adopted and preparedness of the team to address the emergency
situation if any; and ,
(v) monitoring and evaluation arrangements w.r.t environment safeguards at the project site.
4.2 ACTIVITY2: CONSULTATION WITH DEVELOPER
28. Subsequently, a meeting of the due diligence consultants has been held with the Developer- Welspun
Solar AP Private Limited Ltd. on 19th January 2013 to collect information and discuss on the compliance
to the various clearance conditions by the State Pollution Control Board apart from discussions on the
capacity of the EHS team of Welspun and the roles and responsibilities in effectively implementing the
EMP provisions.
(i) ESIA Report prepared by Senes consultants
(ii) Carry out discussions on The Consent to Establish, under Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution)
Act, dated 24th August 2012, issued by Regional Office, Jodhpur of RSPCB and the Consent to
Operate, under Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, dated 04.01.2013, issued by Regional
Office, Jodhpur of RSPCB.
(iii) Application to Tehsildar for felling of Khejri trees at the site for placing the solar modules
(iv) Green Belt Development Plan, Landscaping plan within the premises of the Solar power plant
(v) Plantation programme of WSAPPL outside the plant premises, along the approach road for 5km.
(vi) Details of Rainwater harvesting system proposed at the site
(vii) Whether environment management, health & safety (EHS) measures had been incorporated in the
contract and has been adequately addressed during construction
(viii) Role of EHS department personnel in monitoring effective implementation of environment measures
proposed.
(ix) Project implementation arrangements for implementation of environmental measures.
4.3 ACTIVITY-3: PREPARATION OF EDDR
29. Preparation of EDDR which included
(i) Review of available documents and collating information from various documents to assess the possible
environmental impacts of the project and
(ii) Compilation of EMP by taking information on several measures integrated in the project documents.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
8
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 8
4.4 ACTIVITY 4: JOINT SITE VISIT WITH THE WORLD BANK AND UPDATING DDR
30. A joint site visit has been carried out to the project site during 23rd April to 25th April 2013, along
with the World Bank and IIFCL officials on the basis of review of draft ESDDR submitted by due diligent
consultant. The comments received based on review of ESDDR and observations made by the World Bank
during the site visit have been considered to update the ESDDR.
4.5 SCOPE OF WORKS
31. The Environmental Due Diligence Report (EDDR) includes:
A description of the project including details of solar technology adopted for the project
Environmental profile of the project area (the site and its immediate surroundings) based on secondary
information and detailed site visits. Detailed description of features of the site, physical features in terms
current land use of the site (open/agricultural / forest etc.) and its surroundings, presence of any temporary
/ permanent structures, any features such as water bodies, streams / nalas, etc and other sensitive features
at / around the site (religious structures/schools/ hospitals / settlements etc.)
Legal framework for solar projects (including the laws relevant to the site features), also supported by
copies of various clearances as obtained from Project Developer like forest clearance if applicable and
NOC from various authorities. Other state level regulatory authorities for establishing the facility and
construction equipment running DG Sets and storage of fuel any tree cutting permission. Permission for
ground water use. Hazardous substances management/Hazardous waste authorisation etc.
Analysis of environmental impacts (if any) both during construction and operation phase of the project and
formulation of remedial measures with relevant implementation arrangements addressing: (a) sensitive
environmental features (forests/national parks/sanctuaries/wildlife. CRZ and cultural heritage sites) and
impact of project on such areas; and (b) aspects like impact on community properties like grazing lands
water bodies and community severance. etc
Criteria for site selection or any alternative analysis study done for project site
Details of the public consultations during planning and construction stage (if not. then carry out focus
group discussions during the project to assess community issues related to the project)
Environmental Management Plan for construction and operation phase and the management measures
need to be built in to the project implementation measures/management.
Details of Institutional arrangement for environmental safeguards implementation and define components
for periodic monitoring of health, safety and Environmental aspects (parameters and frequency for
environmental monitoring);
Environmental management plan related clauses as per project contract documents which can be obtained
from project developer for the concerned project.
5. ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE OF THE PROJECT SITE
32. This section briefly describes the baseline environmental profile of the study area of the Solar PV
Power plant. The proposed site lies in Phalodi Tehsil of Jodhpur District in Rajasthan, covering a land area
of 1080 bigha (land belonging to villages Kanasar & Rawra). The environmental baseline of the site has
been compiled from the ESIA report prepared by Senes Consultants and supplemented with findings
from the field surveys and consultations carried out as part of the preparation of the due diligence
report.
5.1 TERRAIN
33. The proposed project area is characterized by flat terrain with an average elevation of around 225 m
above the Mean Sea Level. Regional slope is from northwest towards eastern direction.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
9
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 9
5.2 LAND USE
34. The proposed project site lies on flat land with seasonal grazing as the main land use. During
monsoon, few pockets of surrounding land are cultivated and rest of the year, left as fallow land. A small
pond is located at about 1 km towards north of the proposed site. Study of land use and land cover in a 10
km area around the project site shows that major portion (approx. 54%) of the area is agricultural land.
Approximately 45 % of the land is in the category of open scrub land. Settlements and roads account for 1
% (approx.) of the area. Seasonal water bodies constitute only around 0.04 % of the land use. The site is
located on almost flat barren land with no distinct vegetation around. Seasonal grazing is carried out during
monsoon season. There is no vegetation or any inhabitants on the land acquired.
5.3 SURFACE WATER
35. Drainage pattern around the site is characterized by a network of ephemerally rain fed natural
drainage channels ultimately discharging into a pond in southern direction of the project site. The pond
serves as the major domestic water source for the inhabitants of nearby village. It was observed, during site
visit, that locals have made small sand bunds in their fields to stop rainwater running through their fields
for post monsoon usage. Indira Gandhi Canal passes at radial distance of 12 kms (approximately) from the
project site towards the north-east of the site.
36. Surface water sampling was carried out by the EIA consultants at two locations in the study area.
Surface water sample taken from the existing ponds in Kanasar and Rawra village near the project site was
analysed by EIA consultants. The pond water is used for drinking and washing purposes by domestic (cow,
sheep, goats) as well as wild animals.
5.3.1 Interpretation of Surface Water Quality Results
37. Analysis of collected samples of surface water showed that pH of the surface water sample in
Kanasar and Rawra villages are 9.58 and 9.12 respectively, indicating the water is alkaline in nature in
both the locations. The DO level in both the water samples is 6.2 mg/L at Kanasar and 6.0 mg/L at Rawra
village, while BOD is absent in both water samples, indicating good water quality. The coliform count
recorded is 94 MPN/100ml in Kanasar and 84 MPN/100ml in Rawra village.
5.4 GROUNDWATER
38. The groundwater in the area mainly occurs in unconfined state and the water levels are normally in
the range of 4 to 13 m below ground level (bgl) in hot weather while they are in the range of 2 to 13 mbgl
in Rabi season. As per CGWB, 1.59 m has been recorded as maximum rise in groundwater level for Bap
block. According to the District Groundwater Brochure (2008), the groundwater in the Bap block has high
concentration of Nitrate (more than 100 mg/l), Fluoride (1.5 -3.0 mg/l) and electric conductivity (4000-
6000 micromhos/cm).
39. Groundwater sampling was carried out at two locations within the study area. The concentration of
turbidity, PH, total hardness, chloride, calcium, magnesium, sulphate for the sample was observed to be
higher than the desired limit but was well within the permissible limits of IS: 10500. However, TDS is
little higher than the desirable as well as permissible limit.
5.5 CLIMATE & METEOROLOGY
40. Jodhpur district forms part of the Great Thar Desert of Rajasthan. Hence, the district experiences arid
to semi-arid type of climate which is hot and dry. The rainy days are limited to maximum 15 days in a
year. Almost 80% of the total annual rainfall is received during the southwest monsoon, which enters the
district in the first week of July and withdraws in the mid of September.
41. Phalodi is the nearest available monitoring station of IMD in Jodhpur district and located at 35 kms
(approx.) southeast of the project site. Some of the meteorological parameters are discussed below.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
10
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 10
42. Rainfall: The annual average rainfall recorded in Phalodi is 265.7 mm with the maximum rainfall
during the months of July and August and minimum rainfall in December. This is significantly low as
compared to the national average of 1200 mm.
43. Temperature: The meteorological data of Phalodi station shows that, the maximum temperature
occur in the month of May (45.20C), where as the lowest temperature was observed in the month of
January (3.10C).
44. Wind Direction: According to IMD data of Phalodi monitoring station, predominant wind direction
over the 30 year period (1951-1980) was recorded South West.
5.6 AIR AND NOISE QUALITY
45. Air Quality: Ambient concentrations of major air pollutants viz. particulate matters (PM10 and
PM2.5), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO) were monitored twice a
week at three locations in the project area by the EIA consultants.
46. Monitored concentrations of each parameter at all the three locations have been compared with the
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) stipulated by the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
Concentrations of all the ambient air quality parameters (PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NOx ) at all monitoring
stations were observed to be well below the NAAQS.
47. Ambient Noise Quality: The project site is located amongst barren fields with no continuous noise
generating sources in the vicinity of the project site. The ambient noise levels in the area were monitored at
three locations in nearby settlement (known as Dhani) of Ravara and Kanasar village. Monitored results for
day & night were within the applicable CPCB standards for ambient noise.
5.7 SOIL
48. Soil investigation carried out by EIA consultants at project site reveals that soil type is sandy silt.
Soil sample was collected from project site and analyzed during the ESIA study for the project.
5.7.1 Interpretation of soil testing results
49. Based on the particle size distribution obtained from the soil analysis, the texture of soil at the
project site is sandy silt type. Soil of the project site is slightly alkaline with a pH value of 9.10. Soil
sample contains high concentration of sodium and chloride ions, and soil is saline in nature. Soil sample
also contain high concentration of other minerals like Ca, Mg and show high value of TDS, which reflect
low nutrient holding and cation exchange capacity and poor fertility of soil. Concentration of organic
carbon and nutrient element like nitrogen is also low.
5.8 SEISMIC HAZARD
50. As per the Zoning map published by the Disaster Management and Relief Department, Government
of Rajasthan, the project site is located in the earthquake low damage risk Zone II (MSK VI) with low
seismicity hazard.
5.9 GEOLOGY
51. The geological set-up of Jodhpur district is represented by various igneous, metamorphic and
sedimentary rocks. Delhi Super Group litho units are very limited and in the form of isolated pockets.
Erinpura granites and Malani igneous rocks cover large area in the southern part of the district. Marwar
Super Group of rocks occupies maximum geographical area of the district lying in the central, western, and
eastern parts of the district. The rock units of various formations belonging to Cenozoic epoch represented
in very small area lies in the North-Western parts of the district. In the entire district, the hard rocks are
overlain by thin blanket of alluvium and windblown sand.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
11
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 11
52. Jodhpur district forms part of Great Thar Desert of Rajasthan. In this arid region, there are sand
dunes, alluvial areas dotted with few hillocks and hill chains scattered in the area.
5.10 HYDROGEOLOGY
53. The ground water in Jodhpur district occurs under unconfined and semi-confined conditions in rocks
of Delhi Super Group, Jodhpur sandstones, Bilara limestone, Nagpur sandstones, Lathi sandstones and
unconsolidated sediments (valley fills and alluvium). These form the chief source of groundwater in the
district. Confined conditions exist at deeper levels in north-western part of the district.
5.11 ECOLOGY
54. Ecological profile in the study area is based on the site survey, literature review and the ESIA report.
The study area characterized by arid climate and sandy soil does not support abundant growth of
vegetation. While some area comprises of scrub land with thorny bushes, majority of the area is barren
land. Natural vegetation therefore represents xerophytic community. With the first shower in late July, a
few grass species grow and shrubs and dwarf trees become green. But soon after the retreat of monsoon in
mid September, the vegetation dries up, leaving only few perennial shrubs and thin pads of pale green
grass on the landscape. There are no endangered species in the project area. In any case, being a solar
plant, project activities do not have any significant adverse effect on any living flora or fauna.
5.11.1 Floral Diversity
55. Babool, Aak, Kair, Khejdi, Senia and Neem were recorded as major vegetation in the areas the
project site during site visit. Sewan grass, a perennial drought tolerant species, was also identified as
commonly found species in the area. Aak and dry Sewan grasses were observed as major vegetation on the
proposed project site.
5.11.2 Faunal Diversity
56. The wild animals living in these harsh and dry climatic conditions belong to the Thar desert region.
The area is suitable for the burrow and low water consuming animals. Domestic animals like camel, cow,
dog, sheep and goat are seen in nearby Dhani during the site visit. Animals such as Indian Fox (Vulpes
bengalensis), Desert Fox (Vulpes vulpes pussila), Jackal (Canis aureus), Hyena (Crocuta crocuta), Wolf
(Canis lepus pallips), Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) are present in the study area (10km radius around
the project site) as per the records of forest department but has not been sighted.
57. Avifauna: Occurrence of low number of avian species in the study area is due to hostile climatic
factors, sparse vegetal cover, very little tree cover with small canopy and less availability of water bodies.
58. Reptile Diversity: Goh, Sanda, Sand mouse and Girgit are the reptilian species recorded and
confirmed by local villagers in the study area. In addition to this, lizard and snakes are the commonly
observed reptiles. In The Thar Desert region, lizard species which are abundant and without any threat are
Stenodactylus orientalis, Crytodactylus scaber,Crytodactylus watsoni, Hemidactylus brooki, Hemidactylus
leschenaultia etc. Among snakes, saw scaled viper, large rat snake, Viper, Indian Krait, Cobra and sand
boa are common.
5.11.3 Ecologically Sensitive Area
59. There is no existing legally denoted ecologically sensitive area like national parks and wildlife
sanctuaries within the 10 km radius of project site.
5.12 SOCIO ECONOMIC PROFILE
60. Considering the scale and nature of the solar power plant, a study area of 5 km from the project site
had been identified for profiling of socio-economic environment of villages.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
12
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 12
61. Identification of the study area had primarily been based on reconnaissance surveys, understanding
of the project and professional judgment during the EIA study. Villages selected for socio-economic
profiling include Kanasar at 5.23 km and Rawra village at 5.0 km.
5.13 DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE
62. The demographic profile includes total population, household size, sex-ratio and scheduled
population of the selected villages in the study area of the district with respect to the proposed solar plant
of the study area villages, Kanasar has the highest population (2,806). The highest sex ratio within the
study area is found in Rawra village (941). The highest SC population is recorded in Kanasar village (759).
Scheduled Tribes are not found in the villages.
5.13.1 Education and Literacy
63. The highest literacy rate is observed in Kanasar village (35%) while average male and female
literacy rate in Kanasar is recorded at 80% and 20 % respectively.
5.13.2 Economic Activity and Livelihood Pattern
64. The workforce participation rate in the target villages of Jodhpur varies between 1.0 % to 88%.
Majority of inhabitants (about 88%) in the study area are employed in the category of cultivators. Other
workers’ category comprises the second most important work category in the study area constituting about
10% of the total workforce. Employments in agricultural (1.0 %) as well as workers working in household
industries (1.0 %) are low in number.
6. ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARD DUE DILIGENCE
65. This chapter presents the findings of the due diligence on the following issues (i) policy, legal and
regulatory requirements, (ii) analysis of alternatives considered in selection of the project site, (iii)
assessment of environmental impacts and mitigation measures (iv) consultations carried out and (v)
provisions in the environmental management plan. Apart from a review of the corresponding issues as
outlined in the ESIA document, consultations with WSAPPL and site visits were carried out to assess the
compliance of the measures outlined in the EMP.
6.1 POLICY, LEGAL AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS
66. This section briefly describes the policy, legal and regulatory requirements for implementing the
solar photovoltaic power project. A solar power project requires assessment for applicability of the
following:
(i) The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981
(ii) The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974
(iii) Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Rules, 1978
(iv) The Environmental (Protection) Act 1986 and Rules
(v) Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification 2006, MoEF Office Memorandum dated 13th May
2011 and 30th June 2011
(vi) Environment (Protection) Seventh Amendment Rules 2009 on AAQ standards
(vii) Noise (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000 amended in 2010
(viii) Forest Conservation Act, 1980
(ix) Conservation of Natural resources related laws
(x) Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling and Trans-boundary Movement) Rules 2008
(xi) The Building and Other Construction Workers’(Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act
1996
(xii) Central Electricity Authority (Safety Requirements for Operation, Construction and Maintenance of Electric
Plants and Electrical Lines) Regulations 2008
(xiii) Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923 and Rules 1924
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
13
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 13
(xiv) Employers’ Liability Act No. 24 of 1938
(xv) The Contract Labor (Regulation and Abolition) Rules, 1971
(xvi) Environment safeguard requirement of IIFCL as per their Environmental and Social Safeguard Framework
(ESSF) and environmental safeguard requirements of its development partners; and
(xvii) Other legislation applicable to construction activities.
6.1.1 Legal Setting
6.1.1.1 Environment (Protection) Act, 1986:
67. The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (EPA-1986) provides holistic framework for the protection
and improvement of the environment. Under the EPA-1986 certain development projects have been
identified requiring environmental clearance (as defined under EIA notification dated 14th September 2006
including all its amendments). Since the solar power projects are non polluting in nature and do not involve
disposal of solid waste, effluents and hazardous substances on land, air and water, such projects are
exempted from environmental clearance as per the EIA notification.
68. This Act is an umbrella legislation providing the coordination of Central and State Pollution Control
Boards established under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974 and Air (Prevention
and Control of Pollution) Act 1981. Under the powers conferred by this Act, the central government has
formulated a set of Rules known as the Environment (Protection) Rules and published Notifications
directed at the following aspects:
Restricting and prohibiting new, expansion and modernization project activities on their potential
environmental impacts;
Regulating the location of industries and the carrying on of processes and operations in different areas.
Setting standards for air emissions, waste water discharges, and hazardous waste management;
Setting standards for the ambient air quality and ambient noise levels, and
Protection of public health and welfare.
69. The other applicable rules & regulations under EPA 1986 includes
The Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2003;
The Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000;
The Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001 as amended;
6.1.1.2 The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981
70. The Air Act prohibits any person to establish or operate any industrial plant in an air pollution
control area, without previous consent of the State Pollution Control Board. Under the above Act,
industries are mandatorily required to apply for Consent to Establish and Consent to Operate from the State
Pollution Control Board. State Boards are responsible for granting and renewing the consents and are
empowered to revoke such permits and order closure of a project in case of noncompliance with the
provisions of these Acts and/or the general or specific consent conditions. Any Establishing or Operating
Industrial Plant is required to ensure under the Act, that the emissions from the activities within the plant
site comply with the Specific Emissions Standard as laid down by Central Pollution Control Board as part
of the Act.
Applicability
71. As per the Industry Classification published by the Rajasthan Pollution Control Board, solar power
projects are classified as Other Category industries requiring Consent to Establish & Consent to Operate
from the Pollution Control Board. CTE & CTO under Air Act has not been applied for by WSAPPL.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
14
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 14
6.1.1.3 The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974
72. The Water Act prohibits any person from knowingly causing or permitting any poisonous, noxious
or polluting matter, determined in accordance with standards laid down by the State Board, from entering
directly or indirectly into any stream or well or sewer or on land; It also prohibits any person from
knowingly causing or permitting to enter into any stream any other matter which may tend, either directly
or in combination with similar matters, to impede the proper flow of the water of the stream in a manner
leading or likely to lead to a substantial aggravation of pollution due to other causes or of its consequences.
Under the above Act, industries are mandatorily required to apply for Consent to Establish and Consent to
Operate from the State Pollution Control Board (also called No Objection Certificates). The State Boards
are responsible for granting and renewing the consents and are empowered to revoke such permits and
order closure of a project in case of non-compliance with the provisions of these Acts and/or the general or
specific consent conditions. As per the Industry Classification published by the Rajasthan Pollution
Control Board, solar power projects are classified as Other Category industries requiring Consent to
Establish from the Pollution Control Board.
Applicability
73. CTE has been obtained from RSPCB via F(Tech)/Jodhpur(Phalodi)/109(1)/2012-2013/999-1001
dated 24-08-12.
74. The CTO under Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, dated 04.01.2013, has been obtained
from Regional Office, Jodhpur of RSPCB (Copy enclosed as Appendix 1 & 2)
6.1.1.4 Noise (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000 amended in 2010
75. The Rules stipulate ambient noise limits during day time and night time for industrial, commercial,
residential and ecologically sensitive areas. Under this Rule, Areas/ Zones have been categorized into
industrial, commercial, residential or silence areas/zones for the purpose of implementation of noise
standards. The ambient air quality standards for noise specified in the Schedule need to be complied with.
An area comprising not less than 100 meters around hospitals, educational institutions and courts is
declared as silence area/zone for the purpose of these rules.
Applicability
76. For construction activity as well as plant operations, ambient noise quality will have to be monitored
and maintained on a regular basis a part of the implementation of the Environmental Management Plan.
The conditions stipulated by the Rajasthan Pollution Control Board in the CTE & CTO will have to be
adhered to- Industrial standards of Leq 75 dB (A) during day & Leq 70 dB (A) during the night.
6.1.2 Policy Setting
77. The Environmental and Social Safeguard Framework (ESSF) of IIFCL provides the enabling
mechanism to IIFCL to deliver its policy objectives and applies to projects funded by IIFCL throughout the
Project Cycle (PC). The ESSF defines procedures, roles, and responsibilities, at various project milestones
for managing the adverse environmental impacts. Projects financed by IIFCL need to undergo an
environmental and social due diligence process utilizing the procedures described in the ESSF to ensure
sustainable project investment.
6.1.3 Other Legislations Applicable to Construction Activities:
78. Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1971 - the Act provides for certain welfare
measures to be provided by the contractor to contract labour.
79. Minimum Wages Act, 1948 - the employer is supposed to pay not less than the Minimum wages
fixed by appropriate Government as per provisions of the act;
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
15
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 15
80. Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986 the Act prohibits employment of children
below 14 years of age in certain occupations and processes and provides for regulation of employment of
children in all other occupation and processes. Employment of child labour is prohibited in Building and
Construction industries).
81. The building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and conditions of
Service) Act 1996 and the Cess Act of 1996 - all the establishments which carry on any building or other
construction work employs 10 or more workers are covered under this Act; the employer of the
establishment is required to provide safety measures at the building or construction work and other welfare
measures, such as canteens, first-aid facilities, ambulance, housing accommodation for workers near the
workplace etc.
82. Central Electricity Authority (Safety Requirements for Operation, Construction and
Maintenance of Electric Plants and Electrical Lines) Regulations 2008: This regulation lays down
broad safety requirements for construction, operation and maintenance of electrical plants and electric
lines, which includes development and implementation of a safety management system.
83. Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923 and Rules 1924: The Act gives requirements related to
employer's liability of compensation to any personal injury caused to a workman by accident in the course
of his employment. The Act also gives a framework for calculating amount of compensation and wages.
Notice of accidents resulting in death or serious bodily injury is required to be given to the government.
The Rules give provisions for application and review of compensation after death or serious injury of a
workman at site or on duty. The reporting of accidents needs to be done in prescribed forms. The Rules
give the procedures for the handling of claims.
84. Employers’ Liability Act No. 24 of 1938: The employer needs to maintain all the works, machinery
or plant connected with or used in his trade or business, in good and safe condition to avoid personal injury
to any workman, who may sue for damages in respect of the injury. A contract of service or apprenticeship
cannot limit any liability of the employer in respect of personal injuries caused by negligence.
6.1.4 Compliance to Clearance Requirements
85. Solar Power Projects do not require EIA/Environmental Clearance as per the EIA notification
2006 by the Ministry of Environment & Forests (MOEF), Government of India. The statutory clearances
required as part of the proposed project was assessed and the current status of availability of such
clearances is given in Table 2. The project site does not include any forest area, thus no forest clearance is
involved in the project.
Table 2: Statutory clearance required and present status of clearance
Clearances Status
Consent to Establish & Consent to Operate Obtained under Water Act (Enclosed as Appendix 1 & 2)
Environmental Clearance Not Applicable (MOEF office memorandum 13th May 2011&
30th June 2011 (Enclosed as Appendix 3 a & b)
Forest Clearance Not Required
Provisions under Biological Diversity Act 2002 Not Required as project site does not lie within 10km of any
National Park, Wild Life Sanctuary
Permission for Tree cutting Application submitted to concerned Tehsildar (Enclosed as
Appendix 4)
Permission for Ground water use Ground water will not be required
Hazardous Waste (Management, Handling & Trans boundary
Movement) Rules, 2008
Not Applicable as no Hazardous Waste generation is expected
during operation of the Solar PV Power plant.
6.2 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES – SITE SELECTION
86. The project site has been chosen based on evaluation criteria which included (i) solar radiation, (ii)
land use, (iii) available infrastructure, (iv) distance to nearest substation, (v) connectivity to site, (vi)
availability of water, (vii) approvals and clearances, (viii) proximity to development and (ix) site shading.
Preliminary data collection, evaluation and detailed technical investigation of identified sites have been
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
16
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 16
carried out. Afterwards detailed analysis of top three sites – Pokhran, Jaisalmer and Phalodi have been
done to finally choose the present project site at Phalodi in Jodhpur district. The first two sites had issues
with respect to access, transmission line proximity with respect to evacuation, partly forest land, presence
of sandy soil and also lower levels of solar radiation. Government land has been allotted for setting up of
the project and the land is barren in nature.
87. The site satisfies the basic principles of site selection in that:
No historical and culturally important place lies adjacent to the project site;
The proposed project does not affect any public utility services like playground, schools and other
establishments;
There are no ecologically sensitive areas like Wild life Sanctuary, National Parks etc. adjacent to the
project site;
No protected /reserve forest area present within or adjacent to the project site.
No habitation/settlements within the project site, thus there are no rehabilitation issues
No water bodies affected as a result of the project, no ground water sources affected by the project
Proposed location will not create any severance issues at the site.
6.3 ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & MITIGATION MEASURES
88. WSAPPL has carried out an environmental and social impact assessment of the proposed project.
The present section presents the observations of the due diligence consultant regarding the mitigation
measures taken against the potential environmental impacts.
6.3.1 During Construction Activities
6.3.1.1 Land Use
89. 350 acres of land has been allotted to WSAPPL for the proposed project by the government of
Rajasthan. This is entirely Government owned land and remains fallow throughout the year except during
monsoon period when it is used for grazing. Thus the proposed project does not involve loss of livelihood.
ESIA study observes that there is another patch of land in the vicinity which is used for grazing, which can
be used by the villagers. Thus impact on land use is not significant in nature.
90. Transmission lines and 54 towers have been erected from the power plant to the substation, which is
located 14.5 km away. Land required for Transmission Line has been obtained on ‘Right to Use’ contract
and permanent land acquisition is not involved. For this purpose, the land required to erect towers has been
‘used’ as per the State Government regulations. There were 41 compensation agreements in place against
private land and those encroached into government land. Compensation was given to people, having
possession/using the piece of land, considered beneficiary and were suitably compensated during
transmission line erection for the larger interest of villagers and society as well as timely completion of the
project. WSAPPL had deputed Karnimata Construction Company for the Erection, Testing and
Commissioning of transmission line. Karnimata Construction Company will arrange Right of Way (RoW)
and also compensate for the crop damages, for the installation of transmission line, as per Clause 4 of the
Technical Specification and Scope of Work of the work order provided by WSAPPL. The crop damage
compensation due to erection of towers was paid by the contractors through a person agreement. The
agreement includes details of the owner, total ownership of land, type of crop impacted and amount of
compensation payable. The relevant Clauses with respect to obtaining the RoW are presented in Box 1.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
17
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 17
Box 1: Extract from the Work Order for transmission lines
6.3.1.2 Drainage
91. There is no natural drainage in the project site. However, to avoid alteration of the contour level
which may cause local flooding in the area during the monsoons, storm water drainage has been
constructed in the project site. Discussion with the WSAPPL team reveals that there are definite plans in
place for rain water harvesting in the project site, as recommended by the RPCB in the CTE & CTO. The
environment and social management and monitoring plan provided as part of the ESIA carried out by
WSAPPL also suggests that “during operation phase, surface run-off from project site will be channelized
to recharge the ground water table through rain water harvesting system.
6.3.1.3 Ambient Air Quality
92. The increase in air pollution concentration caused by fugitive dust generated due to excavation work
and material handling, DG set operation for power supply during the construction phase is expected to be
short-lived and insignificant. However, cumulative air impact, though intermittent, is anticipated from area
development activities by other solar power plants operating in the area.
93. Contractors had obtained valid pollution under control (PUC) certificates for all construction
equipment / vehicles and complied with the latest applicable emission norms. WSAPPL have ensured that
the relevant certificates are obtained by the contractors.
94. Spraying of water during construction is being carried out by the Contractors to reduce dust emission
to a great extent.
6.3.1.4 Ambient Noise Levels
95. During construction phase, the sources of noise pollution are primarily limited to movement of
vehicles transporting construction material and equipments to the site. The project sites are however away
from settlement areas of villages; hence the villagers are not affected due to increased noise level. Use of
low noise generating equipments and restriction of construction activity for limited periods (as per the
stipulation & noise standards mentioned in the CTE & CTO obtained from RPCB) further reduced the
disturbance from noise pollution.
6.3.1.5 Water
96. Water use during construction & operation phase is less in a solar power plant. During discussion
with WSPPL officials, it was revealed that water is being provided by EPC contractor through water tanker
for both construction and operation phases. During operation phase, water will be required only for
cleaning the modules which is only once a month.
97. Due Diligence Consultant has observed that only a tube-well is established in the project site for
construction purposes. However, the discussions revealed that since the alkaline content is higher, the
water is not suitable for construction & operation activities. It is also informed that the tube-well was
established following CGWA guidelines (Guidelines enclosed as Appendix 5).
98. WSAPPL also ensured that drinking water for labour and staff during construction and operation
phase is meeting IS: 10500 quality standards.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
18
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 18
6.3.1.6 Water Quality
99. As per the Consent To Establish under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974-
WSAPPL shall discharge domestic effluent in soak pits through properly designed septic tank. (A
maximum of 1600 KLD domestic sewage generated during construction phase is disposed in Septic tank &
soak pit &38KLD water generated from vessel, equipment washing will be used in plantation,
horticulture).
100. WSAPPL shall comply with the general conditions of CTE under Water (Prevention & Control of
Pollution) Act 1974.
101. WSAPPL shall submit cess returns in case the water consumption is more than 10 KLD under the
provision of water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act – 1977 and as amended from time to time.
102. WSAPPL has also designed rain water harvesting pond inside the plant boundary integrated with
drainage plan which would collect plant drain/storm water drain during monsoon. The pond is being
designed wherein the rain water shall be collected & treated suitably to make usable as for domestic use
purpose. As a part of the scheme, 6 nos of storage tank with capacity of 875 (6x875 = 5250 m3) cubic
meter is being constructed at drain exits for utilization of rain water for washing of solar modules.
Overflowed water from storage tanks will be passed to the 8 nos recharge pond/well, which will recharge
1075.76 m3/day & will ultimately enhance self sufficiency in water resource as well as positive impact in
the vicinity. Optimum utilization of water through systematic water supplying network has been tendered
to reputed company M/s Jain irrigation. An illustration of rain-water harvesting structures is given in the
figure.
6.3.1.7 Soil
103. The probable impacts and mitigation measures taken at the project site are related to:
i. Felling of trees at project site which may enhance soil erosion due to loss of soil binding source.
WSAPPL had initially sought permission from concerned Tehsildar, Bap, district Jodhpur, for removal
of Khejri trees since it obstructs the installation of solar panels but later decided to retain the trees within
the layout for solar panels due to ecological & religious significance (after discussion with Revenue
Department).
ii. In labour camps, there might be degradation of soil quality due to improper sanitation facilities.
WSAPPL has provided adequate sanitation facilities in the labour camp located within the construction
site.
104. Sufficient landscaping is being carried out within the plant premises to compensate for the tree loss
and binding the soil.
Template 1: Illustration of Rainwater harvesting
structures
Template 2: Retaining Khejri trees within the layout
of solar modules
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
19
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 19
6.3.1.8 Ecology & Biodiversity:
105. There are no legally notified ecologically sensitive areas viz. National park, wildlife sanctuary etc.
within the 10 km radius of the project site, therefore impacts on biodiversity are not expected due to the
proposed project.
106. During the transmission line route selection for the proposed project (by Karnimata construction
Company), necessary consideration has been made to avoid forestland & ecologically sensitive areas.
107. Flora: 20 Khejri trees are falling within the layout of solar panels. Initially the plan was to cut them
to enhance power generation and permission for the same had been sought from the Tehsildar, Bap, district
Jodhpur (Appendix 4). But after discussion with the Revenue department it emerged that the species is
ecologically important in arid & semi arid areas and also has religious importance, so it was decided that
the trees would not be cut but would be accommodated within the layout of solar panels sacrificing the
power generation potential within the area of spread of each tree canopy. Landscaping has also been
proposed within the plant premises to serve aesthetic purpose and act as pollution sink.
108. Road side plantations are taken up for about 10-15 km of the road length. While the survival rate of
these plantations is a significant issue, the current corrective measures adopted by the developer could
improve the local/community vegetation.
109. Green Area Development: The ESIA recommends developing plantation in the project area in
order to strengthen the biodiversity in the region. Accordingly, WSAPPL has developed a site plan of the
proposed power plant and the proposed green area (in part) has been enclosed as Appendix 6. A plantation
plan has also been planned at Rawra village in land allotted by forest department/local administration in
consultation with DFO Jodhpur, ADM Phalodi, Sarpanch Rawra, Nursery-in-charge Bap, nursery-in-
charge Phalodi. About 3000 trees will be planted through this programme. The plan also includes
plantation along 5 km of village road. The plan is enclosed in Appendix 7.
110. The landscaping plan in the plant site comprises of low height plants, shrubs, trees (at certain
locations), ground cover and use of local materials for aesthetic beauty. The landscaping is being
developed at the site presently. Species recommended are indigenous to the project area.
Low height plants have been proposed as tall
trees will block sunlight. The low height
plants recommended include: Plumeria alba,
Palm (Royal Palm), Hibiscus (white, pink,
red), Kaner.
The shrubs recommended are: Sadabahar,
Motiya, Madhumalti, Giloy, Amarbel.
Ground cover will be provided by grassing
(mainly Siwan grass-found in the project
area, Burberry crimson & Pygmy. Aloe vera
plants have also been recommended because
of their medicinal value.
Tree species include Ficus panda (yellow
colored bushy plant), Ficus benjamina
(tolerance of poor growing conditions).
The small height trees, plants are to be planted in the north east part while the large trees in the south west
portion of the power plant.
Besides plants, playing with local materials like stones, slabs & mud pots have also been included in the
plan to improve aesthetics.
Template 3: Aloe Vera planted in a nearby Plant
owned by Welspun
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
20
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 20
Template 4: Plantation carried out along the roadside Template 5: Landscaping done in another nearby
plant site owned by Welspun
111. Perimeter Landscaping is currently being developed at the site with two rows of plantation all along
the boundary for about 8 km. These measures will not only reduce the dust at the site but would also add to
regenerating vegetative cover in the desert condition. In addition, the ongoing Aloe vera plantations
below/foot of the panels would improve the site vegetation.
112. Fauna: The project site has boundary wall & fence to avoid entry of wild animals such as Deer,
Nilgai, etc within the plant premises, also to avoid the risk of electrocution of animals and also the risk of
these animals damaging solar panels. Further, night time movement of vehicles during construction phase
will be restricted to avoid any direct interaction with wild animals (deer, nilgai), which are common in this
region.
6.3.1.9 Health and Safety
113. WSAPPL has developed a comprehensive Environmental, Health, Safety & Sustainability Policy
(EHS&S) – The Policy is enclosed as Appendix 8.
114. Safety at work has been ensured by the Contractor as per the Occupational, Health & Safety
Conditions of Contract (Refer to Appendix 9 between WSAPPL & Piling Work Contractor) during (a)
manual excavation during construction (cut hazard), (b) manual loading and unloading of materials such as
modules, inverters, (c) work at height during construction and repair and maintenance work (fall hazard),
and (d) working on electrical equipments during repair and maintenance work (electrocution hazard).
115. The health and safety of workers is ensured as required by Building and other Construction Workers
(Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act 1996; Contract Labour Act, 1970 and the
Central Electricity Authority (Safety Requirements for Operation, Construction and Maintenance of
Electric Plants and Electrical Lines) Regulations 2008. Aligned to specific provision of the aforesaid Act
and Rules, adequate measures are being taken by WSAPPL to ensure proactive efforts being made by the
civil contractors towards provision of welfare facilities for contract workers viz. canteens, restrooms,
sufficient supply of drinking water, creches, latrines and urinals, washing facilities etc.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
21
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 21
116. WSAPPL enhances awareness of the contractor
workforce on occupational health and safety risks through
implementation of training programme in accordance with
EHS&S.
117. During the office visit to Welspun & on discussion
with the environment team, it has been recorded that the
EHS&S document of WSAPPL is confidential and the
EHS&S monitoring at the plant site is carried out
regularly & documented. There are meetings every month
in WSAPPL -Senior Management meetings & Internal
Engineering meeting where environmental compliances &
work progress of contractor & WSAPPL are discussed.
6.3.1.10 Socio economic Condition
118. The project has provided employment opportunity the local people during construction phase, when
manual, un-skilled labours are required for civil and mechanical work. About 40% of the total workforce
comprises of locals.
6.3.1.11 Resettlement
119. The proposed project lies on Government land only. As there is no private land involved for the
project, social impact due to land acquisition on land owners and involuntary settlement is not envisaged.
6.3.1.12 Cultural Sites
120. No significant area or building of cultural heritage is present near the project site; hence no impact is
envisaged.
6.3.2 During Operational Activities
6.3.2.1 Land Use
121. Contamination of land during the operation phase is not envisaged. Waste generation during the
operation phase is minimum in a solar power plant. The solar panels will be taken back by the supplier
after a period of 25 yrs, when they become defunct.
6.3.2.2 Air and Noise Quality
122. The operation of a solar power plant does not involve emission of gases and generation of dust
particles, hence the impact on ambient air quality is anticipated to be very less. Similarly impact on noise
quality is envisaged to be very low.
6.3.2.3 Water
123. There is scarce resource consumption during the operation phase. Water is required for cleaning the
solar modules once a month. Suitability of ground water is being tested for the purpose. If water is found
suitable, necessary permission will be taken from the Central Ground Water Board. If not found suitable,
water will be supplied by tankers.
6.3.2.4 Flora
124. No impact on flora envisaged. Rather, the plantation program will enhance the vegetative covering in
the project area.
Template 6: Workers safety ensured during
construction through use of helmets
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
22
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 22
6.3.2.5 Fauna
125. The project site is fenced to avoid entry of wild animals such as Deer, Nilgai, etc within the plant
premises so as to avoid the risk of electrocution of animals and also the risk of these animals damaging
solar panels. Reflection from solar panels may impact flight pattern of local birds.
6.3.2.6 Health and Safety
126. No significant Health & safety issues envisaged during the operation phase. Only the solar power
plant panels could generate reflection which could cause a nuisance to the nearby settlements. Most of the
health impacts are beneficial, due to a reduction in toxic emissions arising from the otherwise combustion
of fossil fuels.
6.3.2.7 Socio-Economic Condition:
127. Socio-economic condition of the villages in the project area is expected to improve due to an overall
increase in power supply in the grid and hence an increased power supply in the villages. Increase in power
supply to these rural areas will beneficially impact the socio-economic conditions thereby
directly/indirectly triggering the growth of agricultural up gradation, health and education facilities,
infrastructural development etc. Therefore, the overall impact on socio-economic condition will be
positive.
6.3.3 Decommissioning Phase
6.3.3.1 Proper Maintenance & Disposal of Solar PV Panels
128. Photovoltaic panels may contain hazardous materials, and although they are sealed under normal
operating conditions, there is the potential for environmental contamination if they were damaged or
improperly disposed upon decommissioning.
129. Measures: It has been learnt from WSAPPL that all the damaged/dormant photovoltaic modules &
its accessories will be sent back to the manufacture as per their recycling policy. The supplier will be
taking back the solar PV panels at the end of their life cycle to ensure their proper disposal.
6.4 PUBLIC CONSULTATION DURING PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION STAGE
130. Consultations with the village community were carried out by WSAPPL during planning as well as
construction stages. The community suggested employing them in the non-skilled works at the project site.
Apart from providing direct employment to the villagers, WSAPPL has taken initiative in involving the
machinery and trucks and other transport vehicles, etc., owned by the villagers. This was revealed during
the discussion with the Project Team at site.
Table 3: Key outcomes of the Consultations during Planning and Construction stages
Key Issues Suggestions by the Community Integration into the Project work
Employment to villagers
in the project work Developer should employ villagers in
suitable non-skilled jobs.
Hiring of vehicles, water tankers, and
other construction equipments from
villagers.
About 40 percent of the total workforce at the site
has been mobilized from local villages.
Trucks and tractors for transporting of solar panels,
water tankers, earth-moving equipments, etc., have
been sub-contracted to village residents. The hiring
rates are though not competitive, WSAPPL has
taken such an initiative to ensure the participation
of the villagers in the overall functioning of the
project.
Upgradation of road
leading to the proposed
project site
Contract of road construction should be
given to resident villagers.
Villagers should be employed in the
road construction work.
The level grading of the earthen road leading to the
project site was carried out by WSAPPL for which
sub-contract was given to Contractor based in
Rawra village.
The contractor has employed villagers in the road
construction work.
Boundary wall of the A pond near the boundary wall requires Renovation works of the pond is in progress. The
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
23
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 23
Key Issues Suggestions by the Community Integration into the Project work
Project Site obstructs free
movement of villagers for
toilet purposes and
grazing of animals
to be deepened and should be kept as
source of drinking water for cattle.
Toilet facilities need to be provided for
the households reside adjacent to the
boundary wall of the project site.
small pond is located adjacent to the boundary wall
of the project site. The expenses will be met by
WSAPPL.
About 13 families will obtain toilet facility within
their homestead and at a location preferred by the
household. The expenses towards construction will
be met by WSAPPL.
131. Approximately 70 persons would be required to continue providing the following services during
Plant’s operational period for the next 25 years.
Table 4: Key Outcomes of the Consultations during Planning and Construction stages
No. of Personnel Purpose Rate/Month (in Rs.)
40-45 Cleaning of solar modules 6000 to 7000 (at Rs.350/day)
10-12 Security services for plant 10000
8-10 Housekeeping 6000 to 7000
3-4 Drivers 6000 to 7000
3-4 Cooks 6000 to 7000
5-6 Personnel for water supply 6000 to 7000
6.5 ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN
132. The EMAP has been prepared by collecting the information on several measures integrated in project
documents towards minimizing negative environmental impacts. The major components of the EMP
include:
Mitigation of potentially adverse impacts;
Monitoring during the project implementation and operation; and,
Institutional arrangements.
133. The environmental issues and action plan with institutional arrangements for implementation,
supervision and monitoring mechanism have been provided in Table 5. The construction phase is over and
the project has commissioned from 19th February 2013.
Table 5: Environmental Mitigation Action Plan
Environmental
Aspect Action Plan Responsibility
Realistic Time Frame [start
date, end date, if periodic,
mention the period (daily,
weekly, monthly, etc)
Monitoring Mechanism
Safeguard of
occupational
health of the
workers
onsite
Provision of adequate
hygiene facilities like
drinking water, toilet
O&M contractor under
the supervision of
WSAPPL’s staff
Drinking water & Toilet
facilities to be provided at
control room by 31/07/2013
Completion report of Drinking
water & Toilet facilities with
photograph , signed by project
executor and O&M Incharge will
be sent to Head- E,H&S.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
24
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 24
Environmental
Aspect Action Plan Responsibility
Realistic Time Frame [start
date, end date, if periodic,
mention the period (daily,
weekly, monthly, etc)
Monitoring Mechanism
Health and safety
of
Workers
First Aid boxes provided at site; hazard signs placed
near energized
components; provision of
sufficient fire
extinguishers at site to
tackle fire hazards;
adequate use of Personal Protective Equipments
during work; ensuring
implementation of proper
occupational health and
safety
programmes/procedures
viz. Permit to Work, etc
and safety inductions and trainings to prevent safety
hazards at work prior to
commencement of any
operation and maintenance
activities.
Construction workers provided with requisite
shelter, drinking water and
sanitation in accordance
with requirements of the
Building and other Construction Workers
(Regulation of
Employment and
Conditions of Service)
Act, 1996, the Central
Electricity Authority
(Safety Requirements for
Operation, Construction and Maintenance of
Electric Plants and
Electrical Lines)
Regulations 2008 and the
guidelines published
jointly by International
Finance Corporation (IFC)
and the European Bank for Reconstruction and
Development (EBRD).
O&M contractor under
the supervision of
WSAPPL’s Personnel
Initiated all possible Safety &
Health measures mentioned in the
action plan at site. Monthly
reporting system to be initiated
from September 2013.
Construction work completed,
now plant is in O&M phase.
Adequate facility of drinking
water & toilet facility adjacent to
two inverter rooms.
Completion date : 30.9.2013
Completion report of Drinking
water & Toilet facilities with
photograph , signed by project executer and O&M Incharge will
be sent to Head- E,H&S.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
25
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 25
Environmental
Aspect Action Plan Responsibility
Realistic Time Frame [start
date, end date, if periodic,
mention the period (daily,
weekly, monthly, etc)
Monitoring Mechanism
Proper handling
and
disposal of wastes
and
protection of local environment
Construction debris after completion of major
construction phase reused
in paving site approach
road or filling of low lying
areas.
Domestic waste water disposed off in septic
tanks.
Waste water from cleaning of Solar
Modules, during
operational phase used
for plantation &
horticulture as per
suitability.
Local waste recyclers identified for disposal of
recyclables viz. packaging
Materials, metal scrap generated primarily during
construction phase.
Solar PV technology is a green technology therefore
generation of hazardous
waste in the project site
not anticipated.
EPC contractor and
O&M contractor under
the supervision of
WSAPPL’s Personnel
Completion date :31.12.2013
Completion date 30.9.2013
After washing of Solar
Modules waste water will be
used in plantation beneath the
solar panel.
Effective Date : December,
31 2013 throughout life
cycle
Packing materials of solar
modules and other associated
equipments have already
been disposed/sold to local
recycler
Not Applicable as there is no scrap generated from project.
Not Applicable
Completion report on suitable use of construction debris
signed by project executor
and O&M Incharge will be
sent to Head- E,H&S.
Completion report with no. of soak pits and septic tanks,
photographs , signed by
project executor and O&M
Incharge will be sent to Head- E,H&S.
Monthly Progress report of
Aloe vera plantation beneath the solar modules
with photographs will be sent
to Head- E,H&S.
Proper disposal of
Solar PV Panels Proper transportation of
PV panels, maintenance &
disposal of these panels
considered.
The damaged/dormant photovoltaic modules &
accessories will be sent
back to the
manufacturer/recycling
agency/supplier.
O&M contractor under
the supervision of
WSAPPL’s Personnel
During decommissioning Stage
All damaged/ broken modules
to be kept in a Steel Closed container on a concrete
platform. Whenever the
container will be full of broken
modules, it will be sent to
appropriate
recycling/manufacturing
agency/ supplier etc.
Proposed Effective date :
31.12.2013 throughout life
cycle
Photographs after installation of Steel Closed container on a
concrete platform will be sent
to Head- E, H&S. Records of
damaged Cell to be kept with
O&M incharge and records to
be sent to Head-E,H&S at the time of final disposal
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
26
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 26
Environmental
Aspect Action Plan Responsibility
Realistic Time Frame [start
date, end date, if periodic,
mention the period (daily,
weekly, monthly, etc)
Monitoring Mechanism
Developing own
Water Resource
during operation of
the Solar project
Rain Water Harvesting, storage cum Recharge
scheme integrated with
drainage plan is being
implemented at the project
site. As a part of the
scheme, 6 nos of storage
tank with capacity of 875 (6x875 = 5250 m3) cubic
meter is being constructed
at drain exits for
utilization of rain water
for washing of solar
modules. Overflowed
water from storage tanks
will be passed to the 8 nos recharge pond/well, which
will recharge 1075.76
m3/day & will ultimately
enhance self sufficiency in
water resource as well as
positive impact in the
vicinity. Optimum
utilization of water through systematic water
supplying network has
been tendered to reputed
company M/s Jain
irrigation.
O&M contractor under
the supervision of
WSAPPL’s Personnel
Completion date : 31.12.2013 Completion report of Rain
Water Harvesting, storage
cum Recharge scheme
integrated with drainage plan
with photograph , signed by
project executor and O&M
Incharge will be sent to
Head- E,H&S.
Implementation of
site drainage
system & water
harvesting structures
Suitable drainage system implemented & integrated
with rain water harvesting,
storage & recharging
scheme at project site.
EPC contractor and
O&M contractor under
the supervision of
WSAPPL’s personnel
Completion date : 31.12.2013 Completion report of Rain
Water Harvesting, storage
cum Recharge scheme
integrated with drainage plan
with photograph , signed by
project executor and O&M
Incharge will send to Head- E,H&S
Prevention of soil
and
groundwater
contamination
Spillage of materials e.g.,
Transformer oil on soil
will be prevented, by
placing these materials in safe places with
impermeable liners during
storage, handling and use.
Adequate spill control arrangements viz. sand
bucket, etc is to be
provided onsite to address
accidental spills.
O&M contractor under
the supervision of
WSAPPL’s personnel
Storage facility will be
developed for Storage of
Transformer Oil.
Completion date : 30.11.2013
Completed
Completion report of
Storage facility for
Transformer Oil with
photographs, signed by project executor and O&M
Incharge will be sent to
Head- E,H&S.
Prevent any
disturbance to flora
and fauna near the
project site
Fauna: Temporary nature of construction phase
(approx. 6-9 month) not
likely to create significant
impact. However, impacts
managed through
implementation of
appropriate mitigation
measures viz. avoiding construction activity and
traffic movement at night
time and during early
hours of morning. Also,
proper fencing around the
site deter animals from
entering the site and getting hurt.
Flora: Plantation
programme proposed in
neighbouring Rawra village in discussion with
DFO & other authorities
in govt/forest land allotted
for the purpose. About
3000 trees to be planted.
WSAPPL personnel
during both construction
and operational phase
Proper boundary has been constructed around the site
Caution Boards displayed at
strategic area
Completion Period :
30.11.2013
Progress report for plantation of 3000 saplings in
nearby areas of the project
site & road side with
photographs, signed by Head
( CSR ) will send to Head-
E,H&S.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
27
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 27
Environmental
Aspect Action Plan Responsibility
Realistic Time Frame [start
date, end date, if periodic,
mention the period (daily,
weekly, monthly, etc)
Monitoring Mechanism
Action to increase
survival rate of
road side plantation
Ensuring survival rate of plants that have been
planted by consulting with
Forest Department for
methods to increase
survival rate of plant
species.
WSAPPL personnel
During operation phase Planning to undertake repair
work on the fencing, regular
supply of water via water
tankers, spraying of
pesticides, gap filling where
ever required.
Effective date: 30.9.2013,
through out life cycle.
Progress report for repair work gap filling plantation
with photograph , signed by
Head ( CSR ) will be sent to
Head- E,H&S
Develop positive
perception among local
communities about
project
Open dialogues maintained with the
community members and
all other local stakeholders
of the project to communicate details of the
project, its utility in a
national and sectoral
perspective, extent of
benefits and opportunities
the project can present to
the local communities and
plans/measures the project proponent is taking to
address the community
concerns about social and
environmental impacts.
Project specific Community
Development Plans
enclosed in Appendix 10.
WSAPPL Management
and EPC Contractor
The process is ongoing and
implemented as per CSR plan. Monitoring will be done as
per CSR plan, progress report
with photograph will be
signed by Head ( CSR ) and
will be sent to Head- E,H&S.
Legal compliance Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to
Operate (CTO) has been
obtained from Rajasthan
Pollution Control Board
(RPCB) under the Water
Act.
The conditions of the CTE and CTO to be complied
with and the compliance
will be reported to the
Pollution Control Board, periodically, as mentioned
in the aforesaid
permits/consents.
Permission from Central Ground Water Board to
tap ground water for plant
operations
WSAPPL personnel
during both construction
and operation phase
Consent to Establish (CTE) and
Consent to Operate (CTO) has
been obtained.
Quarterly compliance report of CTO is being submitted to
RPPCB (10/04/2013)
Depending on the outcome of scientific study by deputed
consultant, CGWB permission
shall be taken if required
Quarterly compliance report of
CTO is being submitted to
Rajasthan Pollution Control
Board, acknowledgement of the
same will be kept as ready reference & records.
Quarterly Compliance report as
submitted in April 2013 is
enclosed as Appendix 12.
Impact specific to Transmission line Construction & Operation
Air Pollution Taking precaution to reduce
dust & emission levels (if
any).
Contractor (appointed by
WSAPPL under the
supervision of WSAPPL
)
During construction &
Operation
Project commissioned on
19/02/2013
Noise pollution –
during Transmission line
operation- corona
noise
from the
conductors
The transmission line
alignment selected as defined in Electricity Act
2003
The Contractor
appointed by WSAPPL under the supervision of
WSAPPL
During
Planning Not Applicable as there is no
noise generation from the
transmission line & plant activity.
Noise pollution –
during Operation
of transformers- Transformer
noise
The transformer location
selected as defined in
Electricity Act 2003
Contractor appointed by
WSAPPL under the
supervision of WSAPPL
Not applicable in our project area
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
28
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 28
Environmental
Aspect Action Plan Responsibility
Realistic Time Frame [start
date, end date, if periodic,
mention the period (daily,
weekly, monthly, etc)
Monitoring Mechanism
Occupational
Health & Safety-
Physical hazards
related to working
at height - Erection of towers, line
stringing
Safety practices adopted to
prevent physical hazards
Contractor appointed
by WSAPPL under the
supervision of WSAPPL
.
During
Construction.
Project commissioned on
19/02/2013
Public Health &
Safety - Exposure
to electromagnetic
Fields when the
Transmission line
is operational
The transmission line
alignment fixed at a distance
of 30 m from village
settlements at a minimum.
Karnimata Construction
Company in discussion
with WSAPPL.
(Contract between
WSAPPL & Karnimata
construction company-
Refer General Clause 3.03.00 of Contract
Enclosed as Appendix
11a & b)
During planning. Completed &
Complied.
Project commissioned on
19/02/2013
Effect of Haul
Roads on
Agricultural lands-
Destruction of
standing crops and loss of top
soil, productivity
After completion of
erecting towers and stringing, the haul roads to
be restored.
The owners of the lands compensated for the loss
of standing crops.
The haul roads sprinkled
with dust suppressants to prevent re-suspension of
dust and their deposition
on agricultural lands and
crops.
Contractor (Karnimata
Construction Company)
appointed by WSAPPL
under the supervision of
WSAPPL.
During
Construction
Completed & Complied.
Project commissioned on
19/02/2013
Safety of Localities
& Traffic during
construction
Carrying out site works in a manner creating least
interference to local
community & flow of
traffic.
A passage for traffic created either along a part
of existing carriageway
under improvement or a
temporary diversion close
to the highway
Contractor (Karnimata
Construction Company)
appointed by WSAPPL
under the supervision of
WSAPPL.
During
Construction
Completed & Complied.
Project commissioned on
19/02/2013
Legal Compliance The Statutory clearance
applications have been
submitted by WSAPPL. Assistance provided by
Contractor (Karnimata
Construction Company).
Approvals with respect to
CEIG, PTCC, CEA,
RRVPN, Railway, Electrical
inspector handled by Contractor (Karnimata
Construction Company.
WSAPPL & Contractor
(Karnimata Construction
Company)
During
Construction
Completed & Complied. Project commissioned on
19/02/2013
6.5.1 Environmental Monitoring Plan
134. The Plant-in-charge at the project site supported by EHS Department of WSAPPL monitors the
implementation of Environment Management and Monitoring Plans at the plant site.
135. Responsibilities include:
Implementation of Social and Environmental Management Plan
Conducting and coordinating meetings as required with local communities
Conducting and facilitating EHS awareness and management trainings to the project and operations teams
Liaising with Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board for obtaining and/or renewing consent with the
support of corporate EHS.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
29
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 29
136. Apart from the in-house monitoring being carried out, WSAPPL has devised a monitoring plan in
which third-party monitoring will be carried out (given low environmental impacts, once every three years)
in order to monitor the environmental parameters & comparing them with benchmarks set by the
regulatory authorities to help WSAPPL assess the environmental performance and identify gaps ensuring
immediate actions. WSAPPL has initiated the process of selecting the third-party monitoring agency.
7. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
137. The project is a Category B project in line with IIFCL’s safeguards framework. The site allotted for
the proposed project is on a barren government land and is not located in the vicinity of any protected
/environmental sensitive areas.
138. An environmental assessment has been carried out for the project through an external environment
consultant. No significant impacts pertaining to the project implementation are identified, and
environmental impacts are largely construction related and have been addressed through integration of the
environmental management measures outlined in the EMP as part of the bid documents of the civil
contractors.
139. Environmental clearance from MoEF/SEIAA is not required for this project as Solar Power Projects
do not require EIA/Environmental Clearance as per the EIA notification 2006 by the Ministry of
Environment & Forests (MOEF), Government of India.
140. Statutory clearances and approvals in line with the requirements of Water Act and other legal
requirements have been obtained by WSAPPL. Compliance to the requirements laid down in the
clearances by the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board is being taken up, first quarterly compliance
report submitted to RPCB in April 2013.
141. WSAPPL has supervisory staff at the project site to ensure conformance of the contractors to the
PPE and safety measures to be adopted during construction & operation. Site visits indicated a satisfactory
compliance by the construction workers to the safety norms and PPE.
142. WSAPPL is developing its own Water Resource during operation of the Solar project. Rain Water
Harvesting, storage cum Recharge scheme integrated with drainage plan is being implemented at the
project site.
143. Application to the revenue department seeking the felling of 20 khejri trees had been submitted to
revenue department. But the trees would be retained now and no permission is required.
144. WSAPPL confirmed that all panels damaged will be taken back by the suppliers and replaced.
Therefore, the need for disposal of those panels is not triggered. Developer has identified a space within
the site which shall be earmarked for storage of such panels.
145. The alignment of the transmission line passes through government lands for a major length. Along
stretches through private lands, the contractor has worked out arrangements with the landowners prior to
the construction of the transmission lines. No outstanding grievances were reported by the local
communities to the due diligence team.
146. Consultations with the communities at the project location revealed extensive participation of the
local population as construction labour and in the provision of construction equipments and vehicles. The
CSR policies of WSAPPL are being implemented towards upliftment of the local communities including
improvements to the school buildings, development of water sources for cattle apart from development of
toilets for a group of households closer to the boundary wall of the site;
147. The environmental assessment study included monitoring of the environmental attributes including
air, water noise and soil quality at the proposed project site. The environment assessments include a
monitoring plan, wherein monitoring of air, water, noise is proposed through the appointment of an
external monitoring agency during operation stage. The appointment of monitoring agency by WSAPPL is
underway.
Welspun Solar AP Private Limited
30
India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards
Due Diligence Report on Environmental Safeguards 30
148. A landscaping plan is proposed to be implemented by WSAPPL, once the civil works at the site is
completed.
149. Overall, the development of the solar power plant including the transmission lines will not have any
significant impact on the environment.
Figure1 : CSR Initiatives Architecture (Source: Corporate Social Responsibility – 2011, Welpsun India Limited – Copy of the Document given in Appendix 7)
Details of Project Specific Community Welfare measures carried out by the Developer
1. Regular interactions have been held with the local villagers and the village Sarpanch of Kanasar and Rawra seeking suggestions from the community for developing a robust CSR plan. WSAPPL had conducted most of the discussions in an informal set up in order to offer a platform where the villagers are able to share their views without trepidation. Based on the interactions, the CSR personnel have rolled out various CSR initiatives addressing the needs of the local communities.
2. Prior to undertaking the various CSR initiatives, meetings have been held with the local authorities to obtain permission for going ahead with respective activities/projects. Minutes of meetings with Sarpanch of Rawara and the permission letters obtained from different Government departments are enclosed in Appendix 8.
3. As part of the community welfare measures WSAPPL has taken initiative in community development activities in Kanasar and Rawra villages that include: construction/enhancement of community facilities, organizing of health camps, competition events, provision of labour during construction phase etc. Details of some of the activities taken up so far are summarised as follows:
School at Kanasar village: assistance given for developing a Library-Recreation-Information Centre in the
School (Refer Appendix 9 for details of the initiative taken by WSAPPL). Apart from this, the School received
assistance from Developer to renovate the Kitchen room.
School at Rawra village: in addition to plantations in the school compound, enhancements have been made to
the school room.
Community hall in Rawra village: a community hall constructed in Rawra is being utilized by the local
population for the purpose of cooking for social functions, social gatherings, meetings of women, etc.
Construction of toilets: as the plant location caused loss of access to open area previously used for open
defecation, WSAPPL had in discussion with the two villages agreed for construction of toilets for 13
households – 6 in Kanasar and 7 in Rawra. Construction contracts have been issued to a local firm1 and the
construction is scheduled to begin in the last week of June, with a targeted completion by October 30th 2013.
Competition, events and health camps: Events such as “Come, See and Learn” including competitions have
been organized. Accordingly, Welspun has organised a competition for students of 4 schools at Rajasthan
Middle School in Rawra village (Refer Appendix 10 for details) and Medical Camp at School level in Kanasar
village (Refer Appendix 11 for details).
Distribution of sweaters to children: Two hundred sweaters were distributed to school going children of 4
schools namely Govt Primary School No. 1 & 2, Ganesh Nagar, Govt Middle Primary School, Mistri Ki Dani &
Chokhani Ki Dani, Kanasar.
Cattle health check up camp: A Veterinary Camp was held in Rawra in the month of May 2012. The cattle
health and vaccination camp was organized at Rajkiy Primary School, Raware, in which a total of 3200 small
(Goat & Sheep) and big cattle (Cow & Camel) were treated and vaccinated. A similar camp was conducted in
Kanasar village in the month of November 2012 with the support of Government Veterinary Department, Bap,
Kanasar Panchayat.
Training on cattle rearing and management: To educate the villagers on the various government schemes
and the ways in which the farmers can avail from the veterinary department, a training program was organized
at the Govt. Primary School, Takhat Ki Dani, Raware, in which 54 villagers participated.
Job fair at Jodhpur: A Job fair was organized on 25th June 2012, at Shri Ummed Rajkiya stadium in Jodhpur.
The Welspun CSR team together with the Collectorate of Jodhpur, the District employment officer & ITI
Jodhpur, planned & coordinated the event. Various employment opportunities ranging from Fitters, Electricians,
Wiremen, Turner etc were available at Welspun India Limited, Anjar, Gujarat & personnel in the age group of
18-28 years were recruited for these posts at the Job fair.
Construction of approach road: An approach road of 1.5 km was constructed in view of constant demand
from villagers and village panchayat. The road was constructed from Rawra Ki Dani to Naion Ki Dani of Rawra
village.
Installation of solar light: 2 solar lights have been installed in the Govt. Primary School, Rawra in order to
educate school children about the functioning of a solar panel.
Construction of bus-shelter with drinking water facility: WSAPPL has constructed 2 bus-shelters with
drinking water facility (PYAVU), one at Bap to Rawra road and another near Kanasar road.
4. WSAPPL has invested INR 2,952,146 on various CSR projects / activities as on date. Proposed budget and expenditure details of CSR activities at Jodhpur site of WSAPPL for the year 2012-13 is given in Appendix 12. Additionally, as per the government order issued on 14th August 2012 by the Government of Rajasthan Planning Department, WSAPPL is required to adopt at least one school and one Primary Health Centre (PHC) in the project villages. WSAPPL is required to spend approximately INR 300,000 to INR 600,000 annually for a minimum period of three years. WSAPPL spend at about INR 300,000 per year as part of the activities taken up so far.
1 M/s Babulal & Company, C202, Murlidhar Vyas Nagar, Bikaner.
Library-Recreation-Information Center developed with
assistance from Developer Renovated Kitchen room of the School
1
Annexure # 1
Plantation Plan/Details
The species selection is based on local soil condition and resource availability. The site surface mainly rock type, gravel rich. Keep this in view; the site surface is not having the features like soil, nutrient & others required to support vegetation. Therefore, it is recommended to dig holes of 1.5 m dia with 1.0 m depth and filled with soil (having nutrients) for at site plantation. Consider the ground condition at site It is recommended not to restrict plantation at site, but take up it as a site area development (include plantation at Road side) program. Some of suggested plants are as given below. It is strictly recommended not to plant any tree / herb / shrubs which not occur in the area, because it may disrupt the local environmental settings. Acacia catechu Azadiricta indica Tecomella undulate Acacia jaquemontii Prosopis cineraria Salvadora oleoides Acacia leucophloea
The saplings shall be taken from local RFO office. The Range officer has been approached in regard to with regard to the supply of saplings and sought advice on plan of action. Three villages have been identified with probable locations. The sarpanch is engaged for allocating the area in the respective villages where we will take up plantations. The sarpanch is also collaborating for allocating man power for carrying out plantation. We have connected with the local organization, which has done quite a bit of water harvesting and ensured there is water around the area. We intend to work with the same party and see if we can ensure the availability of water for the same.
In regard to biodiversity park, land need to be allotted by district administration, we awaiting such allocation. It is suggested that forest department may take up this activity and we shall along with other solar power & wind power developers will contribute proportionately. The detail of plantation plan is tabulated below.
2
Sr. No. Name of Plant Species Area Covered in Acre
No. of Plant Location Expenditure
Village – Rawra (Outside the Plants Boundary )
1 Neem, Babbol , Khejdi , Pipal & Bargad
6 Acres 2550 Road Side (5 kms. stretch ‐ Raware village triraha to the end of Raware village)
Government Primary School, Takhat ki Dani, Rawra
Burial Place
Rs.931353/‐
Within the Plant Boundary
2 Gulmohar, Ashok, Neem, Kadamb, Peltaphorum, Tebulia Rosea, Plumeria Alba, Palm (Royal palm), Hibiscus (White, pink, red), kaner & Chinese Palm
1 Acre 500 R‐1 1012458/‐
3 Gulmohar, Ashok, Neem, Kadamb, Peltaphorum, Tebulia Rosea, Plumeria Alba, Palm (Royal palm), Hibiscus (White, pink, red), kaner & Chinese Palm
1 Acre 550 R‐2 1096487/‐
4 Neem, Babbol , Khejdi , Bogenvilliya, Kaner & Gulmohar
4 Acres 3500 Gap filling & R ‐3 Rs.500000/‐