NTPC Limited - Environmental Clearance

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT/ ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

July’ 2021

Rammam Hydro Power Project, Stage-III

(3x40 MW)

in

District-Darjeeling & West Sikkim

State-West Bengal & Sikkim

NTPC Limited (A Government of India Enterprise)

PREPARED BY

SV ENVIRO LABS & CONSULTANTS Visakhapatnam

Phone: 0891-2755528, Fax: 0891-2755529

Email: [email protected]

Recognized by MoEF&CC and QCI – Accredited,

Certificate No. NABET/EIA/1821/SA 0118

UNDERTAKING BY CONSULTANT

This is to certify that M/s. SV Enviro Labs & Consultants is a NABET & NABL Accredited,

ISO 9001:2015 certified company and is recognised by Ministry of Environment, Forest and

Climate Change under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

Further, this Environmental Impact Assessment/ Environmental Management Plan for the

Rammam Hydro Electric Project Stage-III (3 x 40 MW) in Darjeeling District of West

Bengal and West Sikkim District of Sikkim has been carried out by M/s. SV Enviro Labs &

Consultants and the prescribed ToR’s have been complied with and the data submitted in the

Final EIA report is factually correct.

Thanks and Regards,

M. Murali Krishna

Managing Partner

July, 2021

DECLARATION BY EXPERTS CONTRIBUTING TO THE EIA

“Environmental Impact Assessment/ Environmental Management Plan” for the proposed

Rammam Hydro Electric Project Stage-III (3 x 40 MW) in Darjeeling District of West

Bengal and West Sikkim District of Sikkim

I hereby certify that I was a part of the EIA team in the following capacity that developed the

above EIA.

EIA Co-ordinator :

Name : Dr. G.V.A Ramakrishna

Signature :

Period of Involvement : July’ 2020 to September’2020

Functional Area Experts:

S.No Functional

Areas

Name of the Expert Category as per

NABET

Involvement (Period and

task**)

Signature and Date

1 AP * M. Murali Krishna

A Air Pollution

monitoring,

prevention &

control

2 WP * V. Hemalatha

A Water Pollution

monitoring,

prevention &

control

3 SHW * K. Anitha

A Solid waste

management

4 SE * Dr. B. Vijay

Bhaskara Rao

A Socioeconomic

studies

5 EB * Dr. M. Tarakeswara

Naidu

A Ecology and Bio-

diversity

6 HG * Dr. G.V.A

Ramakrishna

A Hydrology

7 GEO * Dr. G.V.A

Ramakrishna

A Geology

8 SC * D. Sunder Rao

A Soil conservation

9 AQ * M. Murali Krishna A Air quality

modelling

10 NV * M. Murali Krishna A Noise and vibration

11 LU * Dr. G.V.A

Ramakrishna

A Land use studies

12 RH * Shaik Kasim

A Risk and hazard

study

Declaration by the Head of the accredited consultant organization/ authorized person

I, M. Murali Krishna, hereby, confirm that the above mentioned experts prepared the

EIA/EMP for proposed Rammam Hydro Electric Project Stage-III (3 x 40 MW) in Darjeeling

District of West Bengal and West Sikkim District of Sikkim.

Signature:

Name: M. Murali Krishna

Designation: Managing Partner

Name of the EIA consultant organization: SV Enviro Labs & Consultants

NABET Certificate No. & Issue Date: NABET/EIA/1821/SA0118 Dt: 28.09.2020 valid up to

21.07.2021

Certificate of Plagiarism check

Title of EIA Report

Environmental Impact Assessment/Environmental

Impact Assessment Report for Rammam Hydro Electric

Project Stage-III (3 x 40 MW) in Darjeeling District of

West Bengal and West Sikkim District of Sikkim

Name of Accredited Organization SV Enviro Labs & Consultants

Unique Identification Number SVELC/EIA/NTPC/FINAL/2021

Name of EIA Co-ordinator (EC) Dr. G.V.A. Ramakrishna

Name of the Software Plagiarism Checker X

Date of Check 05.07.2021

Time of Check 5:00 PM

Declaration by the Head of the accredited consultant organization/authorized person

I hereby certify that this EIA/EMP Report has been evaluated using in-house software

Plagiarism Checker X version 6.0.11. The report produced has been analyzed by the system and

based on it, I certify that the EIA report produced in accordance with good scientific practice.

Date and Sign of EIA Coordinator: 06.07.2021

Name: Dr. G.V.A. Ramakrishna

Designation: EIA Coordinator

Date and Sign of Head of Accredited Organization: 06.07.2021 (M. Murali Krishna)

Name of the EIA consultant organization: SV ENVIRO LABS & CONSULTANTS

NABET Certificate No. & Issue Date: NABET/EIA/1821/SA 0118 Dt. 28.09.2020

CONTENTS

Table of Contents C0-1

List of Tables C0-9

List of Figures C0-12

List of Annexures C0-14

Index of Compliance with TOR for EIA Study – Additional TOR C0-15

Index of Compliance with TOR for EIA Study – Standard TOR C0-20

Chapter I Introduction C1-1

Chapter II Project Description C2-1

Chapter III Description of the Environment C3-1

Chapter IV Anticipated Environmental Impacts &Mitigation Measures C4-1

Chapter V Analysis of Alternatives C5-1

Chapter VI Environmental Monitoring Program C6-1

Chapter VII Additional Studies C7-1

Chapter VIII Project Benefits C8-1

Chapter IX Environment Cost Benefit Analysis C9-1

Chapter X Environmental Management Plan C10-1

Chapter XI Summary and Conclusions C11-1

Chapter XII Disclosure of Consultants C12-1

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT FOR

RAMMAM HYDRO ELECTRIC PROJECT STAGE - III (3 x 40 MW)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

S. No. TITLE Page No. Chapter I: Introduction 1.0 General C1-1 1.1 Brief Details of The Project C1-1 1.2 Identification of Project & Project Proponent C1-2 1.3 Hydro Potential C1-3 1.4 Purpose of The Study C1-4 1.5 Brief Description of Nature, Size, Location of The Project C1-5 1.5.1 Nature of The Project C1-5 1.5.2 Size of The Project C1-5 1.5.3 Locations of The Project C1-5 1.6 Background of The Project C1-6 1.6.1 Statutory Clearances C1-6 1.6.2 Current Status of Work C1-7 1.7 Location & Accessibility C1-9 1.8 Need for The Project & its Importance to The Country and Region C1-13 1.8.1 Demand Supply Gap C1-14 1.9 Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework C1-15 1.10 Scope of The Study C1-17 1.11 Environmental Parameters in The Study Area C1-18 1.12 Generic Structure of EIA Document C1-18 Chapter II: Project Description 2.0 General C2-1 2.1 Location of Project C2-1 2.2 Size or Magnitude of Operation C2-3 2.3 Salient Features of The Project C2-6 2.4 Project Description C2-10 2.4.1 Diversion Structure C2-10 2.4.2 Intake and Intake Tunnel C2-13 2.4.3 Desilting Chamber C2-13 2.4.4 Head Race Tunnel (HRT) C2-13 2.4.5 Surge Shaft C2-14 2.4.6 Pressure Shaft C2-14 2.4.7 Power House C2-14 2.4.8 Tail Race Channel C2-14 2.4.9 Hydro-Mechanical Works C2-14 2.4.10 Minimum Flow in The River Downstream of The Barrage C2-15 2.5 Land Requirement C2-16 2.6 Infrastructure Facilities C2-17



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2.6.1 Access Roads C2.17 2.6.2 Construction Materials and Equipment C2-19 2.6.3 Project Township/Colonies C2-20 2.6.4 Water & Power Requirement C2-20 2.6.5 Muck Generation & Disposal C2-20 2.7 Manpower Requirement C2-21 2.8 Project Schedule & Cost Estimates C2-21 Chapter III: Description of the Environment 3.0 Introduction C3-1 3.1 Study area C3-2 3.2 Study period C3-2 3.3 Methodology of EIA study C3-2 3.4 Micro-meteorological data C3-3 3.4.1 Wind Speed and Direction C3-4 3.4.2 Temperature C3-4 3.4.3 Rainfall C3-4 3.4.4 Site Specific Met Data C3-4 3.5 Air Environment C3-7 3.5.1 Selection of Sampling Locations C3-7 3.5.2 Methodology of Sampling and Analysis C3-7 3.5.3 Summary of Existing Ambient Air quality C3-16 3.6 Water Environment C3-17 3.6.1 Surface Water and Ground Water Quality Assessment C3-18 3.6.2 Selection of sampling locations C3-18 3.6.3 Sampling techniques C3-18 3.6.4 Water Sampling Stations C3-21 3.6.5 Surface water Quality Results are Summarized Below C3-29 3.6.6 Groundwater Quality Results are summarized Below C3-29 3.7 Soil Environment C3-30 3.7.1 Selection of Sampling locations C3-30 3.7.2 Sampling and Analytical Techniques C3-30 3.7.3 Summary of Soil analysis Data C3-35 3.8 Noise Environment C3-37 3.8.1 Identification of Sampling Locations C3-37 3.8.2 Methodology C3-37 3.8.3 Description of Locations C3-38 3.8.3.1 Noise Levels in The Study Area C3-38 3.9 Traffic Study C3-42 3.10 Geology and Hydrogeology C3-43 3.10.1 Geological Setting C3-44 3.10.2 Minerals C3-48 3.10.3 Hydrogeological Setting C3-50 3.10.4 Land Slide in The Area C3-52 3.10.5 Seismicity C3-53



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3.10.6 Soils C3-54 3.11 Hydrology C3-54 3.11.1 Objective of The Study C3-55 3.11.2 Rainfall Data C3-56 3.11.3 Water Availability Studies C3-58 3.11.4 Runoff-Runoff Correlation C3-59 3.11.5 Extending Singlabazar flow series based on Rangit Stage-IV data C3-60 3.11.6 Rainfall –Runoff Correlation C3-61 3.11.7 Design Flood Studies C3-62 3.11.8 Dimensionless Unit Hydrograph C3-62 3.11.9 Derivation of synthetic Unit Hydrograph C3-64 3.11.10 Flood Frequency analysis C3-67 3.11.12 Diversion Flood C3-68 3.11.13 Drainage Pattern C3-69 3.11.14 Catastrophic Events like Cloud Burst and Flash Floods C3-69 3.11.15 Sedimentation Data C3-70 3.11.16 Environmental Flow C3-70 3.12 Biological Environment C3-72 3.12.1 Introduction C3-72 3.12.2 Objectives C3-73 3.12.3 Study Area C3-73 3.12.4 Cropping Pattern C3-77 3.12.5 Agriculture production System C3-79 3.12.6 Vegetation Composition in The Study Area C3-81 3.12.7 Methodology C3-84 3.12.8 Secondary Data Collection C3-87 3.12.9 Floristic composition C3-89 3.12.10 Medicinal Plants C3-111 3.12.11 Economically Important Plant Species C3-112 3.12.12 Phytosociology Analysis for Community Structures C3-113 3.12.13 Biodiversity Indices C3-132 3.12.14 Fauna C3-148 3.12.15 Butterflies C3-156 3.12.16 Aquatic Ecology C3-157 3.12.17 Methodology C3-158 3.12.18 Sampling Locations C3-159 3.12.19 Phytoplankton C3-161 3.12.20 Zooplankton C3-163 3.12.21 Macro-Benthic Biota C3-163 3.12.22 Primary Productivity C3-164 3.12.23 Fisheries C3-165 3.12.24 National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries C3-168 3.13 Landuse Pattern C3-173 3.13.1 Land Use Pattern-remote sensing Data C3-173 3.13.2 Methodology C3-174



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3.13.3 Landuse map analysis C3-174 3.13.4 Spatial Data from SOI Topographical Sheets C3-175 3.13.5 Contour Map and Elevations of Study Area C3-178 3.15.6 Digital Elevation Model C3-178 3.13.7 Land use land cover statistics of study area C3-178 3.14 Socio-economic Environment C3-185 3.14.1 Overview C3-185 3.14.2 Methodology C3-185 3.14.3 Brief Profile of West Bengal district C3-186 3.14.3.1 Demographical details of the District C3-186 3.14.3.2 Demographical details of the study area C3-188 3.14.3.3 Economy and Land based Livelihood C3-193 3.14.3.4 Landuse Pattern C3-193 3.14.3.5 Working Population C3-193 3.14.3.6 Cropping Pattern C3-194 3.14.3.7 Agricultural Implements C3-194 3.14.3.8 Irrigation C3-195 3.14.3.9 Horticulture C3-196 3.14.3.10 Industries C3-197 3.14.3.11 Tea Industry of Darjiling District (Darjeeling Tea) C3-197 3.14.3.12 Physical and Social Infrastructure Facilities in Darjeeling C3-198 3.14.4 Brief Profile of the Sikkim District C3-203 3.14.4.1 Communities of Sikkim C3-203 3.14.4.2 Demographical details of the study area C3-203 3.14.4.3 Economy and Land based Livelihood of Sikkim C3-210 3.14.4.4 Physical and Social Infrastructure Facilities in Sikkim C3-213 3.14.5 Primary Survey C3-215 Chapter IV: Anticipated Environmental Impacts &Mitigation Measures 4.0 Introduction C4-1 4.1 Impact Assessment C4-1 4.2 Identification of Impacts C4-2 4.3 Impacts On Land Environment C4-3 4.3.1 Construction Phase C4-3 4.3.2 Operation Phase C4-10 4.4 Impacts On Water Quality C4-11 4.4.1 Construction Phase C4-11 4.4.2 Operation Phase C4-14 4.5 Impacts On Air Environment C4-19 4.5.1 Construction Phase C4-19 4.5.2 Operation Phase C4-22 4.6 Impacts On Noise Environment C4-22 4.6.1 Construction Phase C4-22 4.7 Impacts On Ecology C4-28 4.7.1 Terrestrial Ecology C4-28



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4.7.2 Aquatic Ecology C4-31 4.8 Impact On Socio-Economic Environment C4-34 4.8.1 Positive Impacts C4-35 4.8.2 Negative Impacts C4-36 4.9 Impact On Geological Environment C4-40 4.10 Impact of Natural Resources C4-41 Chapter V: Analysis of Alternatives

5.0 General C5-1 5.1 Alternate Location for the project C5-1 5.2 Alternate Technology C5-2 5.3 Conclusion C5-2 Chapter VI: Environmental Monitoring Program 6.0 Introduction C6-1 6.1 Objective of Monitoring C6-1 6.2 Area of Concern C6-1 6.3 Ambient Air Quality and Meteorology C6-2 6.4 Water Quality C6-3 6.5 Noise Monitoring C6-4 6.6 Erosion and Siltation C6-5 6.7 Ecology C6-5 6.8 Incidence of Water-Related Diseases C6-5 6.9 Summary of Environmental Monitoring Programme C6-6 6.10 Environmental Management Group (Emg) C6-8 6.11 Cost for Implementing Environmental Monitoring Programme C6-9 6.12 Environmental Audits and Corrective Action Plans C6-9 6.13 Submission of Monitoring Reports To Regulatory Authorities

(MOEF&CC, CPCB, WBSPCB & SSPCB) C6-10

Chapter VII: Additional Studies 7.0 Additional Studies C7-1 7.1 Public Consultation C7-1 7.2 Catchment Area Treatment Plan C7-11 7.2.1 Need for Catchment Area Treatment C7-12 7.2.2 Objectives of Catchment Area Treatment Plan C7-14 7.2.3 Approach For The Study C7-14 7.2.3.1 Data Acquisition C7-15 7.2.3.2 Data Preparation C7-15 7.2.3.3 Output Presentation C7-18 7.2.4 Estimation of Soil Loss Using Silt Yield Index (SYI) Method C7-20 7.2.5 Watershed Management – Available Techniques C7-22 7.2.6 Catchment Area Treatment Measures C7-23 7.2.7 Cost Estimate C7-25 7.3 Disaster Management Plan C7-28



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7.3.1 Purpose of The Plan C7-28 7.3.2 Scope of The Plan C7-28 7.3.3 Hazardous Chemicals On-Site & Their Normal Inventories C7-29 7.3.4 Emergencies Scenarios C7-32 7.3.5 Factors To Control Emergency C7-34 7.3.6 Emergency Organization C7-43 7.3.7 Response Functions C7-43 7.4 R&R Action Plan C7-44 7.4.1 Details of Land Acquired C7-45 7.4.2 Resettlement & Rehabilitation C7-46 7.4.3 Basis of R&R Action Plan C7-47 7.4.4 Process of formulation of R&R Action Plan C7-47 7.4.5 Social Assessment & Project Design C7-48 7.4.6 R&R Basic Approach C7-51 7.4.7 R&R Entitlement Matrix C7-52 7.4.8 Rehabilitation Measures C7-54 7.4.9 Resettlement Measures C7-57 7.4.10 Additional Resettlement Benefits C7-57 7.4.11 Socio-Economic Profile of PAPs C7-58 7.4.12 Community Development Measures C7-59 7.4.13 Implementation Mechanism for One Time Rehabilitation Package C7-60 7.4.14 Cost Incurred C7-60 7.5 Power Potential Study C7-63 Chapter VIII: Project Benefits 8.0 General C8-1 8.1 Benefits to Economy C8-1 8.2 Social Infrastructure C8-1 8.2.1 R & R Benefits C8-2 8.2.2 CSR/CER Activities C8-2 8.3 Employment Potential C8-5 8.4 CO2 Emissions C8-6 Chapter IX: Environment Cost Benefit Analysis 9.0 General C9-1 9.1 Need for The Hydropower Project C9-1 9.1.1 Power Evacuation C9-2 9.2 Environment Cost Benefit Analysis C9-2 9.3 Environment Cost C9-3 9.3.1 Cost of Forest Land Diverted C9-3 9.3.2 Compensatory Afforestation C9-4 9.3.3 Cost Incurred In Rehabilitation & Resettlement C9-4 9.4 Environment Benefits C9-5 9.4.1 Increase In Electricity Production C9-5 9.4.2 Economic Benefits C9-5 9.4.3 Employment Generation C9-6



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9.4.4 Economic Benefits Due To Catchment Area Treatment Plan C9-6 9.4.5 Positive Social Impact Assessment of Project C9-6 9.5 Environment Cost and Benefits C9-7 9.5.1 Cost Estimate for R&R Action Plan C9-7 9.5.2 Cost for Implementing Environmental Management Plan C9-8 Chapter X: Environmental Management Plan 10.0 Introduction C10-1 10.1 EMP During Various Project Phases C10-1 10.2 Control of Pollution From Labour Camps During Construction Phase C10-2 10.2.1 Facilities In Labour Camps C10-2

10.2.2 Sanitation Facilities C10-2 10.2.3 Solid Waste Management From Labour Camps C10-3 10.2.4 Provision of Free Fuel C10-3 10.3 Environmental Management In Road Construction C10-3 10.4 Management of Muck Disposal Sites C10-5 10.5 Restoration and Landscaping Of Project Sites C10-6 10.6 Greenbelt Development C10-7 10.7 Compensatory Afforestation C10-8 10.8 Biodiversity and Wildlife Conservation and Management Plan C10-9 10.8.1 Introduction C10-9 10.8.2 Biodiversity Policy of NTPC C10-9 10.8.3 Objectives C10-11 10.8.4 Study Area C10-11 10.8.5 Protected Areas C10-12 10.8.6 Conservation Plan For IUCN Threatened Category Plants C10-13 10.8.7 Establishment of Gardens For Voucher Specimens (Threatened

Category Plants) C10-15

10.8.8 Conservation And Cultivation of Medicinal Plants C10-15 10.8.9 Forest Protection Plan C10-17 10.8.10 Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) C10-18 10.9 Public Health Delivery System C10-19 10.10 Control of Air Pollution C10-19 10.11 Control of Water Pollution C10-20 10.12 Fish Management C10-21 10.12.1 Release of Minimum Flow C10-21 10.12.2 Fish Migration C10-21 10.12.3 Sustenance of Endemic Fisheries C10-22 10.13 Wildlife Conservation C10-23 10.14 Seismicity Considerations C10-24 10.15 Noise Control Measures C10-24 10.16 Establishment of an Environmental Management Group C10-25 10.17 Summary of Impacts and EMP C10-26 10.18 NTPC’s Environmental Policy C10-30 10.19 Cost for Implementing Environmental Management Plan C10-30



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Chapter XI: Summary and Conclusions 11.0 Introduction C11-1 11.1 Location & Accessibility C11-2 11.2 Need of the Project C11-5 11.3 Project Description C11-5 11.3.1 Project Cost C11-6 11.3.2 Minimum water flow in the River C11-6 11.4 Baseline Environmental Status C11-7 11.4.1 Physical Environment C11-7 11.4.2 Biological Environment C11-11 11.4.3 Traffic Survey C11-11 11.4.4 Socioeconomic Environment C11-11 11.5 Environmental Impact Assessment and Mitigation Measures C11-12 11.5.1 Impact on Land Environment - Construction Phase C11-12 11.5.2 Impact on Air Quality C11-13 11.5.3 Impact on Noise Quality C11-14 11.5.4 Impact on Topography and drainage C11-14 11.5.5 Impact on Water Quality C11-15 11.5.6 Impact on Biological Environment C11-15 11.5.7 Impact on Socio economic Environment C11-16 11.6 Public Consultation C11-17 11.7 Risk Assessment Plan and Disaster Management Plan C11-17 11.8 Catchment Area Treatment Plan C11-18 11-9 Project Benefits C11-18 11-10 Environment Cost Benefit Analysis C11-18 11-11 Environmental Management Plan and Monitoring Plan C11-19 11-12 Disclosure of Consultant C11-20 11-13 Conclusions and Recommendations C11-21 Chapter XII: Disclosure of Consultants 12.0 Disclosure of Consultants Engaged C12-1 12.1 About SV Enviro Labs & Consultants (SVELC) C12-1 12.2 Services offered by SV Enviro C12-2



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LIST OF TABLES

S. No. Description Page no. 1.1 Coordinates of Project Components C1-9 1.2 All India Installed Capacity (In MW) Of Power Stations (As On

31.01.2021) C1-13

1.3 All India Demand-Supply Scenarios By 2026-27 C1-14 1.4 Eastern Region Demand-Supply Scenarios By 2026-27 C1-14 1.5 Key Environmental Legislations Pertaining To Hydro Projects C1-16 2.1 Salient Features of Rammam Stage-III Hydroelectric Project C2-6 2.2 Details of Land Acquired C2-17 2.3 Length of Project Road C2-18 3.1 Summary of Methodology for Baseline Data Collection C3-2 3.2 IMD Climatological Data of Period 1981-2010 C3-3 3.3 Site-Specific Meteorological Data C3-4 3.4 Techniques and Detectable Limits For Ambient Air Quality Monitoring C3-8 3.5 Location of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations C3-9 3.6 Summary of Ambient Air Quality Analysis C3-11 3.7 Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) For Water Sampling C3-19 3.8 Analytical Techniques for Water Analysis C3-19 3.9 Ground Water Sampling Locations C3-21 3.10 Surface Water Sampling Locations C3-21 3.11 Ground Water Quality of The Study Area C3-25 3.12 Surface Water Quality of The Study Area C3-27 3.13 Analytical Techniques for Soil Analysis C3-30 3.14 Details of Soil Sampling Locations C3-31 3.15 Soil Analysis Results In The Study Area C3-33 3.16 Standard Soil Classification C3-36 3.17 Noise Monitoring Locations C3-37 3.18 Noise Levels In The Study Area C3-38 3.19 Traffic Density Monitoring Locations C3-42 3.20 Traffic Volume Counts C3-43 3.21 Gauge and discharge data C3-56 3.22 Time Distribution Coefficients C3-66 3.23 Areas Under Field Crops From West Sikkim District (Ha) C3-77 3.24 Areas Under Horticultural Crops From West Sikkim District (Ha) C3-77 3.25 Areas Under Field Crops From Darjeeling District (Ha) C3-78 3.26 Areas Under Horticultural Crops From Darjeeling District (Ha) C3-79 3.27 Production And Productivity of Major And Horticultural Crops From

West Sikkim District C3-79

3.28 Production And Productivity of Major And Horticultural Crops From Darjeeling District

C3-80



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3.29 Details Of Sampling Locations And Number Of Quadrats C3-86 3.30 Flora Recorded In The Study Area C3-89 3.31 Checklist Of Medicinal Plants Recorded During The Field Study C3-111 3.32 Checklist Of Economic Importance Plants From Study Area C3-112 3.33 Importance Value Index of Tree Species At Salangdang Area C3-114 3.34 Phytosociology of The Shrubs And Lainas At Salangdang Area C3-116 3.35 Phytosociology of The Herbs At Salangdang Area C3-117 3.36 Phytosociology of The Tree Species In The Right Side of The Barrage C3-119 3.37 Phytosociology of The Shrubs And Lainas Species In The Right Side

of The Barrage C3-121

3.38 Phytosociology of The Herbs In The Right Side of The Barrage C3-122 3.39 Phytosociology of The Trees In The Near Township Area C3-123 3.40 Phytosociology Of The Shrubs And Climbers In The Near Township

Area C3-125

3.41 Phytosociology of The Herbs In The Near Township Area C3-126 3.42 Phytosociology of The Trees In The Karmi Area C3-128 3.43 Phytosociology of The Shrubs And Climbers In The Karmi Area C3-129 3.44 Phytosociology of The Herbs In The Karmi Area C3-130 3.45 Biodiversity Indices Of All Four Study Sites C3-132 3.46 List of Major Animal Species Reported In The Study Area C3-149

3.47 Locations Of Aquatic Samples C3-161 3.48 List Of Phytoplankton Species Observed In Various Sampling Sites In

The Study Area C3-161

3.49 Zooplanktons Observed In Various Sampling Sites C3-163 3.50 Phytoplankton Primary Productivity In Various Sampling Sites C3-165 3.51 List of Fish Species Recorded From Teesta Rangeet River System C3-165 3.52 Fish Species Recorded In Rammam River C3-167

3.53 Vegetation Reported In Singalila National Park C3-169 3.54 Land Use Land Covers Statistics of Study Area C3-184 3.55 Demographical Details of The Study Area C3-189 3.56 The Important Hydel Power Projects In Darjeeling District, West

Bengal C3-200

3.57 Details of Physical And Social Amenities In The Study Area C3-202 3.58 Demographical Details Of The Study Area C3-205 3.59 Details of Physical And Social Amenities In The Study Area C3-214 3.60 Particulars of The Participants C3-215 4.1 Activities – Impacts/Risks Interaction Environmental Sensitivities C4-2 4.2 Details of road construction in the project C4-7 4.3 Details of land acquired C4-9 4.4 Component Wise Detail of Land acquired for Rammam Stage-III

HEPP C4-10

4.5 Free Flowing Stretch of Rammam River C4-17 4.6 Emissions Limits for DG sets C4-21 4.7 Summary of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring C4-22



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4.8 Noise level due to operation of various construction equipment C4-23

4.9 Increase in noise levels due to increased vehicular movement C4-24 4.10 Noise generated due to drilling C4-25 4.11 Noise generation due to blasting C4-26 4.12 Maximum Exposure Periods specified by OSHA C4-27 4.13 Tree density at various sampling sites C4-29 6.1 Ongoing Env. Monitoring Programme During Construction Phase C6-6 6.2 Proposed Env. Monitoring Programme During Operation Phase C6-7 6.3 Cost For Env. Monitoring Programme During Construction Phase C6-9 6.4 Cost For Env. Monitoring Programme During Operation Phase C6-9 7.1 Land use pattern of the catchment area C7-18 7.2 Criteria for erosion intensity rate C7-21 7.3 Basis for selection of catchment area treatment measures C7-22 7.4 Erosion intensity categorization as per SYI classification C7-23 7.5 Area under various erosion categories C7-23 7.6 Cost for Catchment Area Treatment - Biological Measures C7-25 7.7 Cost for Catchment Area Treatment - Engineering Measures C7-27 7.8 Year wise target (physical and financial) for Catchment Area

Treatment Plan C7-27

7.9 Hazardous Chemicals and their normal inventory at different sites C7-29 7.10 Location-wise list of Portable Fire Extinguishers C7-41 7.11 Detail of Type of Land Acquired For Rammam Stage-III HEPP C7-45 7.12 Component Wise Detail of Land acquired for Rammam Stage-III

HEPP C7-46

7.13 Category Wise Detail of PAPs as Per NTPC R&R Policy C7-58 7.14 R&R Measures Identified to be Undertaken for Rammam Stage-III

HEP C7-61

7.15 Summary of Actual Exp.Incurred on RAP for Rammam Stage-III HEP C7-63 8.1 CER/CSR-CD Activities Undertaken in and Around The Project Area C8-3 8.2 Details of Expenses of CSR-CD/CER Activities C8-4 8.3 Proposed CER/CD Activities for 2021-2024 C8-4 9.1 Summary of R&R Budget C9-8 9.2 Cost for Implementing Environmental Management Plan (EMP) C9-8 10.1 List of Plant Species for Greenbelt C10-7 10.2 Techniques of ex-situ Conservation C10-14 10.3 Farm Components in Snowtrout Facilities Proposed for Rammam

Stage-III HEP C10-22

10.4 Organization Structure of NTPC for Overall Environmental Management

C10-25

10.5 Summary of Impacts, Suggested Management Measures and Implementing Agency

C10-26

10.6 Cost for Implementing Environmental Management Plan (EMP) C10-30 11.1 Coordinates of Project Components C11.2



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LIST OF FIGURES

S. No. Description Page no. 1.1 Location Map C1-10 1.2 Vicinity Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW) C1-11 1.3 Topo Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW) C1-12 2.1 Topo Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW) C2-2 2.2 Location Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III C2-4 2.3 Location Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III w.r.t. NP/ WLS &

their Ecosensitive Zones C2-5

2.4 A Layout Map of Project Component C2-11 2.4 B General Layout Plan of Project C2-12 2.5 Road Construction Work by NTPC Rammam HEPP C2-18 2.6 Project Township View C2-20 3.1 Wind Rose for The Period of July 2020 To Sep 2020 C3-6 3.2 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Location Map C3-10 3.3 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Photographs C3-17 3.4 Groundwater Sampling Location Map C3-22 3.5 Surface Water Sampling Location Map C3-23 3.6 Water Sampling Photographs C3-24 3.7 Soil Sampling Photographs C3-31 3.8 Soil Sampling Location Map C3-32 3.9 Ambient Noise Monitoring Location Map C3-39 3.10 Ambient Air Monitoring Stations C3-40 3.11 Geomorphology Map C3-46 3.12 Lineament Map C3-47 3.13a Mineral map of Sikkim Part of Study Area C3-48 3.13b Mineral map of West Bengal Part of Study Area C3-49 3.14 Drainage Map Around 10 Km Radius C3-69 3.15 Barrage Area C3-82 3.16 Power House C3-83 3.17 Vegetation At Township Area C3-84 3.18 Terrestrial Ecology Sampling Locations C3-88 3.19 Photographs of various plant species in area C3-147 3.20 Photos of Butterflies C3-157 3.21 Collection of Water Samples for aquatic study C3-159 3.22 Aquatic Ecological Sampling Locations C3-160 3.23 Location Map Of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III With Singalila

National Park and Barsey Rhododendron WLS ESZ Boundary C3-171

3.24 Flow Chart of Methodology C3-176 3.25 Satellite Image C3-177 3.26 Digital Elevation Map C3-179



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3.27 Contour Map C3-180 3.28 LULC Map C3-181 3.29 Road Network Map C3-182 3.30 Slope Map C3-183 3.31 Graphical Presentation of Land Use Statistics C3-184 3.32 Demographical Details of The District C3-187 3.33 Details of The Working Population C3-194 3.34 Primary Consultation With Local Communities C3-216 3.35 Community Need of The Study Area C3-217 4.1 Settling Tank provided near crusher plant C4-12 4.2 Cascade Development of Hydro Power Projects on Rammam

River C4-18

7.1 Directly Draining Catchment Area C7-13 7.2 Land Use Classification Of The Catchment Area C7-17 7.3 Slope Map Of Directly Draining Catchment Area C7-19 7.4 Prioritization Of Directly Draining Catchment Area C7-24 7.5 Catchment Area Treatment Measures C7-26 7.6 Layout Of Project Site C7-30 7.7 Barrage Complex – Layout Plan C7-31 7.8 Power House – Layout Plan C7-31 7.9 Emergency Communication Organization C7-36 7.10 Emergency Organization Chart C7-43 11.1 Vicinity Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW) C11-3 11.2 Topo Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW) C11-4 12.1 NABET Certificate C12-4 12.2 NABET Validity Extension Certificate C12-5 12.3 NABL Certificate C12-6



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LIST OF ANNEXURES (VOLUME-II)

Annexure No. Description Page No.

Annexure-I MoEF&CC Notification dated 18.01.2021 A-1Annexure-II ToR Copy A-5Annexure-III MoEF&CC Notification S.O. 1247(E) dated 18.03.2021 A-11Annexure-IV Memorandum of Implementation Agreement with WBSEB A-14Annexure-V Techno Economic Clearance (TEC) accorded by CEA A-20Annexure-VI Inter State Agreement between West Bengal & Sikkim A-23Annexure-VII NOC obtained from Ministry of Defence A-27Annexure-VIII Copies of Earlier Environmental Clearance A-29Annexure-IX Clearance accorded by Directorate of Forest, GoWB A-37Annexure-X Forest Clearance accorded by MOEF&CC A-40Annexure-XI Consent to Establish from West Bengal Pollution Control Board

and SPCB, Sikkim A-44

Annexure-XII MoEF&CC Notification S.O. 4254 (E) dated 27.11.2020 A-58Annexure-XIII Certified Compliance Report A-62Annexure-XIV CCF (WL), West Bengal letter dated 01.02.2008 A-69Annexure-XV MoEF&CC Notification No. S.O.3613(E) dated 16.11.2017 A-72Annexure-XVI MoEF&CC Notification No.S.O.2172 (E) dated 27.08.2014 A-94Annexure-XVII-A Hydrology Report A-118Annexure-XVII-B Hydrology Flow Series A-179Annexure-XVIII Conservation plan for Schedule-I species A-182Annexure-XIX Public Hearing Proceedings, West Bengal A-277Annexure-XX Public Hearing Proceedings, Sikkim A-292Annexure-XXI Emergency Action Plan A-330Annexure-XXII Power Potential Study A-414Annexure-XXIII Guidelines for conducting Cost Benefit Analysis A-432Annexure-XXIV NTPC Biodiversity Policy A-439Annexure-XXV NTPC Environment Policy A-445Annexure-XXVI Catchment Area Treatment Plan, West Bengal A-451Annexure-XXVII Catchment Area Treatment Plan, Sikkim A-457Annexure-XXVIII Seismotectonic Study for Rammam HEPP A-475Annexure-XXIX CWC Clearance for Design of Rammam HEPP A-497Annexure-XXX Project Layout Superimposed on Counter Map A-499



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Compliance Index for TOR for EIA Study (MOEF&CC File No. J-12011/11/2020-IA-I (R))

A. Compliance with Additional ToR

S.No. Condition Compliance Page reference in EIA report

1. Land acquired for the project shall be suitably compensated in accordance with the law of the land with the prevailing guidelines. Private land shall be acquired as per provisions of Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013

Entire land for the project has already been acquired and the PAPs have been compensated. However, the provisions of Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 were not applicable at that time. Approved Budget for R&R plan is 59.20 Crore.

One time settlement for R&R package to affected PAPs has been agreed during VDAC meeting as per R&R policy. Total of Rs. 3.58 Crores disbursed as per R&R policy till 31.03.2021.

Details are given in Section 2.5 of Chapter-2.

C2-16

2. The details of funds allocation and activities for CER shall be incorporated in EIA/EMP report

The details of funds allocated for CER/CD activities for the FY 2021-2024 provided in Table 8.3 at Chapter-8. The total allocation of Rs 9.25 Crores has been kept for CER/CD.

The Corporate Environment Responsibility (CER)/Community Development (CD) activities undertaken are provided in Table 8.1 of Chapter-8.

C8-4

C8-3

3. Consolidated EIA/EMP report is to be submitted as per the generic structure (Appendix III & III A) given in the EIA Notification, 2006

The EIA/EMP is prepared as per the generic structure (Appendix III & III A) given in the EIA Notification, 2006.

4. One season baseline data shall be collected for all the environmental attributes including biological environment

One season baseline data July’2020 to Sep’2020 has been included in EIA/EMP report in Chapter-3 Description of Environment. The baseline data are given in Chapter-3.

C3-1

5. The EIA report should clearly mention activity wise EMP

The EMP Budget allocated with clear breakup of capital and recurring cost

Table of Contents



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and CER cost details and should earmark clear break up of the capital and recurring cost along with the timeline for incurring the capital cost

provided in Section 10.19 of Chapter-10.

The CER cost details for various activities provided in Table 8.1 of Chapter-8

C10-31

C8-3

6. Conservation Plan for the Scheduled I species, if any, in the project study area shall be prepared and submitted to the competent authority for approval

Conservation Plan for the Scheduled I species in the project study area has been provided as Annexure-XVIII. It will be submitted to State Forest Department.

7. DPR on Hydrology and Layout Map and Power Potential Studies duly approved by CWC/CEA shall be submitted

DPR for Rammam HEPP Stage-III ( 3x40 MW) prepared by M/s WAPCOS Ltd. A summary of DPR is being submitted separately along with EC Application.

8. Dam break analysis, Disaster Management Plan and Fisheries Management Plan be prepared and submitted in the EIA/EMP report

As the Rammam HEPP stage-III is Run of River project, no Dam is envisaged. Further, the height of barrage is 23 m only and the storage capacity is limited to 0.27 MCM. As the river passes through deep gorge, the water spread in case of failure shall be restricted within the river banks only.

Disaster Management Plan provided under Section 7.3 of Chapter-7.

Fish Management Plan provided under Section 10.12 of Chapter-10.

C7-28

C10-21

9. Environmental matrix during construction and operational phase needs to be submitted

The environmental matrix for prediction of impacts provided in Table 4.1 at Chapter-4.

C4-2

10. Both capital and recurring expenditure under EMP shall be submitted

The EMP Budget allocated with clear breakup of capital and recurring cost provided in Section 10.19 of Chapter-10.

C10-31

11. Environmental Cost Benefit analysis shall be done

Environmental Cost Benefit analysis provided in Chapter-9.

C9-2

12. Impact of developmental activity/project on the wildlife habitat, if any, within 10 km of the project boundary shall be studied.

Impact of Wildlife habitat due to the developmental activity is provided in Section 4.7.1 at Chapter-4. C4-28

13. Detailed Social Impact analysis along with status of R&R plan shall be submitted in the EIA/EMP report

Land for project has already been acquired. Few local people were affected in the form of acquisition of their land and Houses. Members of these families were provided with R&R package as per NPRR-2003. Details of social impact are given Section 4.8.1 at Chapter-4 and R&R Plan is enclosed at Section 7.4 of Chapter 7.

C4-35C7-44

14. Certificate from the Chief Wildlife Warden that project

None of the project components are located within National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuary or

A-182



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components are outside the Eco Sensitive Zone of Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary of Sikkim

other protected area or within the notified Eco sensitive zones of these protected area. As confirmed by CCF (WL), West Bengal vide letter dated 01.02.2008.

The project area is at a distance of about 7.1 km from the nearest boundary of Eco-sensitive Zone of Singalila National Park. However, the Singalila National Park is about 9.0 km from the project components as notified by MOEF&CC notification No. S.O. 3613 (E) dated 16.11.2017.

The Eco Sensitive Zone of Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is at 4.2 km from the project site and 4.4 km away from boundary of Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, West Sikkim notified by MOEF&CC notification No.S.O.2172 (E) dated 27.08.2014. Details are given in Section 4.7.1 of Chapter-4. C4-28

15. Compliance report from the Regional Office of MoEF&CC for the earlier EC issued vide letter dated 17.08.2007

Certified Report No: 102-166/07/EPE dated 06.04.2021 from MoEF&CC, Integrated Regional Office, Kolkata attached as Annexure-XIII

16. The consultant engaged for preparation of EIA/EMP report has to be registered with Quality Council of India (QCI/NABET) under the scheme of Accreditation & Registration of MoEF&CC. This is a pre-requisite

SV Enviro Labs & Consultants has been registered with Quality Council of India (QCI/NABET) under the scheme of Accreditation & Registration of MoEF&CC.

NABET Certificate No: NABET/EIA/1821/SA 0118 valid up to 21.07.2021 is enclosed as Figure-12.1 &12.2 of Chapter-12.

C12-4

C12- 5

17. Consultant shall include a “Certificate” in EIA/EMP report regarding portion of EIA/EMP prepared by them and data provided by other organization(s)/ laboratories including status of approval of such laboratories. Declaration by the Consultant that information submitted in the EIA/EMP is factually correct and shall be submitted along with EIA/EMP reports

“Certificate” in EIA/EMP report regarding portion of EIA/EMP prepared by them and data provided by other organization(s)/laboratories incorporated in EIA/EMP Report.

Declaration by the Consultant that information submitted in the EIA/EMP is factually correct is included in the EIA/EMP Report

18. An undertaking as part of the EIA report from Project Proponent, owning the contents (information and data) of the EIA report with

Undertaking by the Project Proponent as per MoEF&CC OM No. 11013/41/2006-IA.II (I) Dt: 05.10.2011 incorporated in theEIA/EMP Report

A-62

After Cover page

After Cover page



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the declaration about the contents of the EIA report pertaining to a project have not been copied from other EIA reports

19. As per Ministry’s Notification 17.02.2020, the ToR will remain valid for a period of 5 years from the date of issue of this letter for submission of EIA/EMP report along with public consultation. The ToR will stand lapsed after completion of 5 years in case final EIA/EMP is not submitted

ToR accorded by MoEF&CC vide F.No. J-12011/11/2020-IA-I (R) dated 12thFebruary, 2021 and is valid upto 11thFebruary, 2026

20. Baseline data and public consultation shall not be older than 3 years at the time of submission of the proposal, for grant of Environmental Clearance

The Baseline data for one season as per the approved ToR was collected during July’2020 to September’ 2020.

21. In case of any change in the scope of the project such as capacity enhancement, change in submergence, etc., fresh scoping clearance has to be obtained

Project is in advance stage and more than 50 % work has been completed. Hence there is no change in capacity enhancement, change in submergence.

22. Details of the name and number of posts to be engaged by the project proponent for implementation and monitoring of environmental parameters be specified in the EIA report.

Environmental Management Group headed by Additional General Manager and assisted by Sr. Manager is already established at site. This department is responsible for environmental related issues and monitoring of environmental parameters. Details is given in Section 10.16 of Chapter-10. C10-25

23. The EIA/EMP report must contain an Index showing details of compliance of all ToR conditions. The Index will comprise of page No. etc., vide which compliance of a specific ToR is available. It may be noted that without this index, EIA/EMP report will not be accepted

An index showing the details of compliance of all ToR conditions along with reference of page numbers is incorporated in the EIA/EMP report.

24. Appropriate Biodiversity Conservation and Management Plan for the Native, Rare & Endangered floral and faunal species getting affected due to the

Biodiversity Conservation and Management Plan for the Native, Rare & Endangered floral and faunal species getting affected due to the project is given in Section 10.8 of Chapter-10.

C10-9

C3-1 to C3-219



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project shall be prepared 25. The PP should complete all

the tasks as per the provisions of EIA Notification, 2006 and as amended time to time and submit the application for final clearance within the stipulated time.

The EIA/EMP report is prepared as per the approved Terms of Reference and EIA Notification, 2006 and its subsequent amendments.



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B. Compliance with Standard TOR

Sl. No. Condition Reference Section Page reference in EIA Report

Standard Terms of Reference

1 Scope of EIA Studies

The EIA Report should identify the relevant environmental concerns and focus on potential impacts that may change due to the construction of proposed project. Based on the baseline data collected for three (3) seasons (Pre-monsoon, Monsoon and Winter seasons), the status of the existing environment in the area and capacity to bear the impact on this should be analysed. Based on this analysis, the mitigation measures for minimizing the impact shall be suggested in the EIA/EMP study.

Environmental concerns and potential impacts that may change due to the construction of proposed project are provided in Chapter-4 anticipated environmental impacts and mitigation measures. The baseline data for one season as per the approved tor was collected during July’2020 to September’ 2020 and provided in Chapter-3.

2 Details of the Project and Site

i General introduction about the proposed project.

Introduction about the project is provided in Section 1.0 of Chapter-1.

C1-1

ii Details of project and site giving L-sections of all U/S and D/S projects of River with all relevant maps and figures. Connect such information as to establish the total length of interference of Natural River, the total length of tunneling of the river and the committed unrestricted release from the site of diversion into the main river.

Details of project and project site with all relevant maps and figures are provided in Section 4.4.2 of Chapter-4.

C4-14

iii A map of boundary of the project site giving details of protected areas in the vicinity of project location

Singalila National Park is about 9.0 km and Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is 4.4 km away from the

C2-4

C4-1 to C4-41

C3-1 to C3-219



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project. Details are given in Figure-2.2 of Chapter-2.

iv Location details on a map of the project area with contours indicating main project features. The project layout shall be superimposed on a contour map of ground elevation showing main project features (viz. location of dam, Head works, main canal, branch canals, quarrying etc.) shall be depicted in a scaled map

The superimposed project layout on a contour map of ground elevation showing main project features is provided in chapter-2 projectdescription along with location details on a map of the project area.Please also refer Annexure-XXX.

v Layout details and map of the project along with contours with project components clearly marked with proper scale maps of at least a 1:50,000 scale and printed at least on A3 scale for clarity

Project layout and map details with clear markings are provided in chapter-2 project description. Please also refer Annexure-XXX.

vi Existence of National Park, Sanctuary, Biosphere Reserve etc. in the study area, if any, should be detailed and presented on a map with distinct distances from the project components

The project area is at a distance of about 9.0 km from the nearest boundary of Singalila National Park and about 4.4 km from the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, West Sikkim. None of the project components are located within National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuary or other protected area or their Ecosensitive Zones. As confirmed by CCF (WL), West Bengal vide letter dated 01.02.2008 attached as Annexure-XIV.

Details are given in Section 2.1 of Chapter- 2. C2-1

vii Drainage pattern and map of the river catchment up to the proposed project site

Drainage pattern and map of the river catchment is provided in Section 7.2 of Chapter-7.

C7-1

viii Delineation of critically degraded areas in the directly draining catchment on the basis of silt Yield Index as per the methodology of All India Soil and Land Use Survey of

Delineation of critically degraded areas in the directly draining catchment details provided in Catchment Area Treatment Plan in

A-499

A-499

A-69



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India. Section 7.2 of Chapter-7. C7-11

ix Soil characteristics and map of the project area.

Soil characteristics provided in Section 3.7 of Chapter-3. C3-30

x Geological and seismo-tectonic details and maps of the area surrounding the proposed project site showing location of dam site and powerhouse site.

Geological and seismo-tectonic details provided under Geology and Hydrogeology in Section 3.10 of Chapter-3. A detailed seismo-tectonic evaluation of Rammam

as HEPP Stage-III is enclosed Annexure-XXVIII.

C3-43

xi Remote Sensing studies, interpretation of satellite imagery, topographic sheets along with ground verification shall be used to develop the land use/land cover pattern of the study using overlaying mapping techniques viz. Geographic Information System (GIS), False Color composite (FCC) generated from satellite data of project area.

Remote Sensing studies, interpretation of satellite imagery, topographic sheets along with ground verification used to develop the land use/land cover pattern of the study and provided under Section 3.11 in Chapter-3.

C3-54

xii Land details including forests, private and other land.

Land details including forests, private and other land provided in Table 2.2 of Chapter-2. C2-3

xiii Demarcation of snow fed and rain fed areas for a realistic estimate of the water availability.

Details of snow fed and rain fed is given in Section 3.11 of Chapter- 3.

C3-54

xiv Different riverine habitats like rapids, pools, side pools and variations in the river substratum – bedrocks, rocks, boulders, sand/silt or clay etc. need to be covered under the study.

Details about riverine habitats are provided in Section 3.12.16 of Chapter-3.

C3-157

3 Description of Environment and Baseline Data

To know the present status of environment in the area, baseline data with respect to environmental components air, water, noise, soil, land and biology & biodiversity (flora & fauna), wildlife, socio-

The baseline data for one season as per the approved ToR was collected during July’2020 to September’ 2020 is provided in Chapter-3.

A-475



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economic status etc. should be collected with 10 km radius of the main components of the project/site i.e. dam site and power house site.The air quality and noise are to bemonitored at such locations whichare environmentally& ecologicallymore sensitive in the study area.The baseline studies should becollected for 3 seasons(PreMonsoon, Monsoon and PostMonsoon seasons). The study areashould comprise of the following:

i Catchment area up-to the dam site Catchment area details are provided in section 2.2 of Chapter-2.

C2-3

ii Submergence Area Submergence area details are provided in section 2.2 of chapter-2.

C2-3

iii Project area or the direct impact area should comprise of area falling within 10 km radius from the periphery of reservoir, land coming under submergence and area downstream of dam upto the point where Tail Race Tunnel (TRT) meets the river.

The study area of 10 km radius from the periphery of the barrage has been considered as shown in Figure 1.3 in Chapter-1.

C1-12

iv Downstream upto 10 km from tip of Tail Race Tunnel (TRT)

Downstream upto 10 km from tip of Tail Race Tunnel (TRT) considered as shown in Figure 1.3 in Chapter-1.

C1-12

4 Details of the Methodology

i The methodology followed for collection of base line data along with details of number of samples and their locations in the map should be included. Study area should be demarcated properly on the appropriate scale map. Sampling sites should be depicted on map for each parameter with proper legends. For forest classification, Champion and Seth (1968) classification should be followed.

The methodology for collection of base line data, number of samples and their locations, sample sites and demarcated study area is provided in chapter-3 description of environment.



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5 Methodology for collection of Biodiversity Data

i The number of sampling locations should be adequate to get a reasonable idea of the diversity and other attributes of flora and fauna. The guiding principles should be the size of the study area (larger area should have larger number of sampling locations) and inherent diversity at the location, as known from secondary sources (e.g. eastern Himalayan and low altitude sites should have a larger number of sampling locations owing to higher diversity)

The no. of sampling locations and map provided in Table 3.29 and Fig 3.18 of Chapter-3. C3-86

C3-88

ii The entire area should be divided in grids of 5km X 5km preferably on a GIS domain. There after 25% of the grids should be randomly selected for sampling of which half should be in the directly affected area (grids including project components such as reservoir, dam, powerhouse, tunnel, canal etc.) and the remaining in the rest of the area (areas of influence in 10 km radius form project components). At such chosen location, the size and number of sampling units (e.g. quadrats in case of flora/transects in case of fauna) must be decided by species area curves and the details of the same (graphs and cumulative number of species in a tabulated form) should be provided in the EIA report. Some of the grids on the edges may not be completely overlapping with the study area boundaries. However these should be counted and considered for selecting 25% of the grids. The number of grids to be surveyed may come out as a decimal number (i.e. it has an integral and a fractional part) which should be rounded to the next whole number

Details provided under Section 3.12 of Chapter-3.

C3-27



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iii The conventional sampling is likely to miss the presence of rare, endangered and threatened (R.E.T.) species since they often occur in low densities and in case of faunal species are usually secretive in behaviour. Reaching the conclusion about the absence of such species in the study area based on such methodology is misleading. It is very important to document the status of such species owing to their high conservation value. Hence likely presence of such species should be ascertained from secondary sources by a proper literature survey for the said area including referring to field guides which are now available for many taxonomic groups in India. Even literature from studies/surveys in the larger landscapes which include the study area for the concerned project must be referred to since most species from adjoining catchments is likely to be present in the catchments in question. In fact such literature form the entire state can be referred to. Once a listing of possible R.E.T. species form the said area is developed, species specific methodologies should be adopted to ascertain their presence in the study area which would be far more conclusive as compared to the conventional sampling. If the need be, modern methods like camera trapping can be resorted to, particularly for areas in the eastern Himalayas and for secretive/nocturnal species. A detailed listing of the literature referred to, for developing lists of R.E.T. species should be provided in the EIA reports.

Details provided under Section 3.12 of Chapter-3.

C3-27

iv The R.E.T. species referred to in this point should include species

Details provided under Section C3-27



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listed in Schedule I and II of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and those listed in the red data books (BSI, ZSI and IUCN)

3.12 of Chapter-3.

6 Components of the EIA Study

A. Physical and Chemical Environment

Geological & Geophysical Aspects and Seismo – Tectonics:

i Physical geography, Topography, Regional Geological aspects and structure of the Catchment

Physical geography, Topography, Regional Geological aspects and structure of the Catchment provided under Section 3.10 of Chapter-3

C3-21

ii Tectonics, seismicity and history of past earthquakes in the area. A site specific study of the earthquake parameters will be done. The results of the site specific earthquake design shall be sent for approval of the NCSDP (National committee of Seismic Design Parameters, Central water commission, New Delhi for large dams

The seismic study has been conducted by IIT Roorkee. The suggested Earth Quake (EQ) design parameters have been cleared from National Committee of Seismic Design Parameters (NCSDP) of CWC and are being adopted for design of the project components. (Report already submitted to MOEF, Shillong through e-mail in May 2011) (Ref. Compliance Report submitted vide NHL/RammamIII/11-12/01 dated 9th May 2011). Copy of Seismo-tectonic evaluation is enclosed as Annexure-XXVIII. Central Water Commission has accorded clearance vide letter dated 05.08.2014 based on TEC clearance dated 12.09.2006. Copy of CWC letter is enclosed as Annexure-XXIX.

iii Landslide zone or area prone to landslide existing in the study area should be examined

Landslide zone or area prone to landslide existing in the study area examined in Section 3.10.4 of Chapter-3. C3-52

iv Presence of important economic mineral deposit, if any

There are no economic mineral deposits in the project area. The mineralogical maps are presented

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in Section 3.10.2 of Chapter-3. C3-48

v Justification for location & execution of the project in relation to structural components (dam height)

The project is in advanced stage of construction after Techno-economic Clearance by CEA and Environmental Clearance by MOEF&CC. The location for execution of the project was found feasible. Details are given in Section 2.1 of Chapter-2.

C2-1

vi Impact of project on geological environment

Details of local geology of area is given at Section 3.10 of Chapter-3. As the proposed project is Runof River project, no major impactson local geology are envisaged.The impact due to tunneling will berestored by thick concreting. Thedetails of impact on geologicalenvironment are covered in Section4.9 of Chapter-4.

C3-43

C4-40

Meteorology, Air and Noise:

i Meteorology (viz. Temperature, Relative humidity, wind speed/direction etc.) to be collected from nearest IMD station.

Meteorology (viz. Temperature, Relative humidity, wind speed/direction etc.) collected from IMD provided in Section 3.4 of Chapter-3.

C3-3

ii Ambient Air Quality with parameters viz. Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) i.e. suspended particulate materials

Ambient air quality with parameters at 7 locations is provided in Section 3.5 of Chapter-3. C3-7

iii Existing noise levels and traffic density in the study area at 6 locations

Ambient noise levels at 7 locations is provided in Section 3.8 of Chapter-3. Traffic Study of study area id given in Section 3.9 of Chapter-3.

C3-37

C3-42

Soil Characteristics:

i Soil classification, physical parameters (viz., texture, porosity, bulk density and water holding capacity) and chemical parameters

Soil classification, physical parameters and chemical parameters at 10 locations is provided in Section 3.7 of C3-30



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(viz. pH, electrical conductivity, magnesium, calcium, total alkalinity, chlorides, sodium, potassium, organic carbon, available potassium, available phosphorus, SAR, nitrogen and salinity, etc.) (6 locations)

Chapter-3.

Remote sensing and GIS Studies:

i Generation of thematic maps viz., slope map, drainage map, soil map, land use and land cover map, etc. Based on these, thematic maps, an erosion intensity map should be prepared

Thematic maps provided under Section 3.11 of Chapter-3. C3-54

Water Quality:

i History of the ground water table fluctuation in the study area

Depth of the ground water table fluctuation in the study area is provided in Section 3.10.3 of Chapter-3. C3-50

ii Water quality for both surface water and ground water for (i) Physical parameters (pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, TSS); (ii) Chemical parameters (Alkalinity, Hardness, BOD, COD, NO2, PO4, CI, SO4, Na, K, Ca, Mg, Silica, Oil & Grease, phenolic compounds, residual sodium carbonate); (iii) Bacteriological parameter (MPN, Total coliform) and (iv) Heavy Metals (Pb, As, Hg, Cd, Cr-6, total Cr, Cu, Zn, Fe) (6 locations)

Water quality at 8 locations for surface water and 4 location for ground water for physical parameters, chemical parameters, bacteriological parameter and heavy metals is provided in Section 3.6.1 of Chapter 3.

C3-18

iii Delineation of sub and micro-watersheds, their locations and extent based on the All India Soil and Land Use Survey of India (AISLUS), Department of Agriculture, Government of India. Erosion levels in each micro-watershed and prioritization of micro-watershed through silt yield index (SYI) method of AISLUS

Details provided under Catchment Area Treatment Plan in Section 7.2 of Chapter-7. C7-11



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B. Water Environment & Hydrology

i Hydrometeorology of the project viz. precipitation (snowfall, rainfall), temperature, relative humidity, etc. Hydro-meteorological studies in the catchment area should be established along-with real time telemetry and data acquisition system for inflows monitoring.

Hydrometeorology of the project like rainfall, temperature, relative humidity etc. provided in Section 3.4 of Chapter-3. No snowfall is observed in the area. C3-3

ii Run off, discharge, water availability for the project, sedimentation rate, etc.

Run off, sedimentation, water availability for the project provided in Section 3.11 of Chapter-3. C3-54

iii Basin characteristics

iv Catastrophic events like cloud bursts and flash floods, if any, should be documented.

Flash flood and cloud brust details are provided in Section 3.11.14 of Chapter-3. C3-69

v For estimation of Sedimentation Rate, direct sampling of river flow is to be done during the EIA study. The study should be conducted for minimum one year. Actual silt flow rate to be expressed in ha-m km2 year-1

The project is a Run of River (ROR) project in which barrage bays with crest level at riverbed level have been proposed for flushing out the silt at regular intervals. Suitable sediment management practices like routine flushing during flood period will be evolved to avoid sediment deposition in the pond. Details are provided in Section 3.11.15 of Chapter-3. The calculated values of Silt Yield Index, erosion intensity and water shed management is given in Section 7.2.4, 7.2.5 and 7.2.6 of Chapter-7.

C7-20 C7-22 C7-23

vi Set up a G&D monitoring station and a few rain gauge stations in the catchment area for collecting data during the investigation

The G&D monitoring Stations are located at Singlabazar, Lodhama Khola and Rammam-II. For the proposed project, the available ten daily discharge data of Singlabazar as well as discharge data as derived based on Rammam stage-II H.E. Project generation data are considered for water availability studies. Details are given in

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Section 3.11.2 of Chapter-3.

vii Flow series, 10 daily with 90%, 75% and 50% dependable years discharges

Flow series, average ten daily flows with various % dischargesare given in Annexure-XVII.

viii Information on the 10-daily flow basis for the 90 per cent dependable year the flow intercepted at the dam, the flow diverted to the power house and the spill comprising the environmental flow and additional flow towards downstream of the dam for the project may be given

Information on the 10-daily flow basis for the 90 per cent dependable year the flow intercepted at the Barrage, the flow diverted to the power house and the spill comprising the environmental flow and additional flow towards downstream of the dam for the project provided in Section 3.11 of Chapter-3 and Annexure- XVIIA.

ix The minimum environmental flow shall be 20% of the flow of four consecutive lean months of 90% dependable year, 30% of the average monsoon flow. The flow for remaining months shall be in between 20-30%, depending on the site specific requirements. A site specific study shall be carried out by an expert organization.

National Green Tribunal in the matter of Pushp Saini Vs. Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change & Others dated 09/08/2017 regarding environmental flow of the River directs that all the rivers in the country shall maintain minimum 15 % to 20% of the average lean season flow of that river. Accordingly, as per site specific requirement, NTPC Rammam HEPP shall maintain the minimum Environmental flow of 18 % in River Rammam. Details are given in Section-2.4 of Chapter-2.

C2-10

x Hydrological studies/data as approved by CWC shall be utilized in the preparation of EIA/EMP report. Actual hydrological annual yield may also be given in the report

The Central Water Commission (CWC) has accorded clearance for design data of Rammam HEPP Stage-III (3x40 MW) vide letter dated 05.08.2014 considering the TEC clearance dated 12.09.2006 and its revalidation dated 01.08.2013. Copy of TEC letter is enclosed as Annexure-V and CWC approval letter is enclosed as Annexure-XXIX. Hydrological studies/data as approved by CWC has been utilized in preparation of EIA report.

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xi Sedimentation data available with CWC may be used to find out the loss in storage over the years.

Sedimentation data is useful for large Dam projects. As, the project is a Run of River (ROR) project in which barrage bays with crest level at riverbed level have been proposed for flushing out the silt at regular intervals. Barrage height is also smaller 23 m to to minimize the sedimentation. Suitable sediment management practices like routine flushing during flood period will be evolved to avoid sediment deposition in the pond. Moreover, intake has been proposed to be located at suitably higher level above the spillway crest to prevent the entry of the silt in the water conductor system. However, underground desilting chambers have been proposed for removal of silt particles of size 0.20 mm and above. Details are given in Section 3.11.15 of Chapter-3.

C3-70

xii A minimum of 1 km distance from the tip of the reservoir to the tail race tunnel should be maintained between upstream and downstream projects

There is no hydro power project downstream of Rammam HEPP. The details of distances among Upstream project are given in Section 4.4.2 of Chapter-4.

C4-14

C. Biological Environment

Besides primary studies, review of secondary data/literature published for project area on flora & fauna including RET species shall be reported in EIA/EMP report

Secondary data incorporated in the EIA report from available published literature (books, websites, scientific papers, articles etc.). The State Forest/ Working Plan were also referred for secondary information. Details are given in Section 3.12 of Chapter-3.

C3-72

Flora

i Characterization of forest types (as per Champion and Seth method) in the study area and extent of each forest type as per the Forest Working Plan

Characterization of forest types provided in section 3.12.3 of Chapter-3.

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ii Documentation of all plant species i.e. Angiosperm, Gymnosperm, Pteriodophytes, Bryophytes (all groups).

Documentation of all plant species reported and observed in study area are provided in Section 3.12 of Chapter-3.

C3-72

iii General vegetation profile and floral diversity covering all groups of flora including lichens and orchids. A species wise list may be provided.

General vegetation profile and floral diversity covering all groups of flora provided in Section 3.12 of Chapter-3. The list of species given in Table 3.30 at Chapter-3.

C3-72 C3-89

iv Assessment of plant species with respect to dominance, density, frequency, abundance, diversity index, similarity index, importance value index (IVI) , Shannon Weiner index etc. of the species to be provided. Methodology used for calculating various diversity indices along with details of locations of quadrates, size of quadrates etc. to be reported within the study area in different ecosystems.

Assessment of plant species with respect to dominance, density, frequency, abundance, diversity index, similarity index, importance value index (IVI), Shannon Weiner index etc. provided in Section 3.12 of Chapter-3.

C3-72

v Existence of National Park, Sanctuary, Biosphere Reserve etc in the study area, if any, should be detailed.

Singalila National Park is about 9.0 km and Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is 4.4 km away from the project. Details are provided in Section 3.12.24 of Chapter-3.

C3-168

vi Economically important species like medicinal plants, timber, fuel wood etc

Economically important species like medicinal plants, timber, fuel wood etc. provided in Section 3.12 of Chapter-3.

C3-72

vii Details of endemic species found in the project area.

Details of endemic species found in the project area provided in Section 3.12.6 of Chapter-3.

C3-81

viii Flora under RET categories should be documented using International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) criteria and Botanical Survey of India’s Red Data list along-with economic significance. Species diversity curve for RET species should be given.

Details provided in Section 3.12 of Chapter-3.

C3-72

ix Cropping pattern and Horticultural Details provided in Section 3.12 of C3-72



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Practices in the study area Chapter-3.

Fauna

i Fauna study and inventorisation should be carried out for all groups of animals in the study area. Their present status along with Schedule of the species


C3-72

ii Documentation of fauna plankton (phyto and zooplankton), periphyton, benthos and fish should be done and analyzed

Documentation of fauna plankton, periphyton, benthos and fish carried out and details provided in Section 3.12.16 of Chapter-3.

C3-157

iii Information (authenticated) on Avi-fauna and wildlife in the study area

Details on Avi-fauna provided in Section 3.12.14 of Chapter-3.

C3-148

Status of avifauna their resident/ migratory/ passage migrants etc.

Details provided in Section 3.12.14 of Chapter-3.

C3-148

Documentation of butterflies, if any, found in the area.

Details provided in Table 3.46 and Section 3.12.15 of Chapter-3.

C3-149 C3-156

Details of endemic species found in the project area.


C3-148

RET species-voucher specimens should be collected along-with GPS readings to facilitate rehabilitation. RET faunal species to be classified as per IUCN Red Data list and as per different schedule of Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.


C3-148

Existence of barriers and corridors, if any, for wild animals.

There is no wildlife corridors in study area. The main barriers for wild life are River Rammam and Rangit, however existing bridges has removed these barriers. Details of wildlife is provided in Section 3.12.14 of Chapter-3.

C3-148

Compensatory afforestation to compensate the green belt area that will be removed, if any, as part of the proposed project development and loss of biodiversity.

Amount deposited to State Forest Department, West Bengal and Sikkim for Compensatory Afforestation. Details provided in Section 10.7 of Chapter-10.

C10-8

Collection of primary data on agricultural activity, crop and their

Details provided in Sub-section 3.14.3.6 to 3.14.3.9 of Chapter-3.

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productivity and irrigation facilities components

C3-196

For categorization of sub-catchment into various erosion classes and for the consequent CAT plan, the entire catchment (Indian Portion) is to be considered and not only the directly the draining catchment.

Details provided in Catchment Area Treatment Plan in Section 7.2 of Chapter-7.

C7-11

D. Aquatic Ecology

i Documentation of aquatic fauna like macro-invertebrates, zooplankton, phytoplantktons, benthos etc.

Details of aquatic fauna like macro-invertebrates, zooplankton, phytoplantktons, benthos etc provided in Sub-section 3.12.16 of Chapter-3.

C3-157

ii Fish and fisheries, their migration and breeding grounds.

Details provided in Sub-section 3.12.23 of Chapter-3 and Section 10.12 of Chapter-10.

C3-165 C10-21

iii Fish diversity composition and maximum length & weight of the measured populations to be studies for estimation of environmental flow.

Details provided in Sub-section 3.12.23 of Chapter-3.

C3-165

iv Conservation status of aquatic fauna.

Details provided in Sub-section 3.12.16 of Chapter-3.

C3-157

v Sampling for aquatic ecology and fisheries and fisheries must be conducted during three seasons – Pre-monsoon (summer), monsoon and winter. Sizes (length & weight) of important fish species need to be collected and breeding and feeding grounds should also be identified along the project site or in vicinity

Aquatic ecology and fisheries sampling has been done at 4 locations and important fish species has been recorded. Details provided in Sub-section 3.12.16 of Chapter-3. However, as per specific TOR, the data has been collected for one season only.

C3-157

E. Socio-Economic

i Collection of baseline data on human settlements, health status of the community and existing infrastructure facilities for social welfare including sources of livelihood, job opportunities and

Collection of baseline data on human settlements, health status of the community etc. done and details provided under Section 3.14 of Chapter-3.

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safety and security of workers and surroundings population.

ii Collection of information with respect to social awareness about the developmental activity in the area and social welfare measures existing and proposed by project proponent.


C3-185

iii Collection of information on sensitive habitat of historical, cultural and religious and ecological importance


C3-185

iv The socio-economic survey/ profile within 10 km of the study area for demographic profile; Economic Structure; Developmental Profile; Agricultural Practices; Infrastructure, education facilities; health and sanitation facilities; available communication network etc.


C3-185

v Documentation of demographic, Ethnographic, Economic Structure and development profile of the area


C3-185

vi Information on Agricultural Practices, Cultural and aesthetic sites, Infrastructure facilities etc.


C3-185

vii Information on the dependence of the local people on minor forest produce and their cattle grazing rights in the forest land.


C3-185

viii List of all the Project Affected Families with their name, age, educational qualification, family size, sex, religion, caste, sources of income, land & house holdings, other properties, occupation, source of income, house/land to be acquired for the project and house/land left with the family, any other property, possession of cattle, type of house etc.

The Socio-economic Impact Assessment Study was conducted by Indian Institute of Social Welfare and Business Management, Kolkata in 2007. The The Socio-economic profile of PAPs are given in Section 7.4.11 of Chapter-7. R&R Plan has been approved and implemented and land has been acquired by NTPC long ago.

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Project is under advance stage of construction. R&R action plan summary is provided in Section 7.4 of Chapter-7.

ix Special attention has to be given to vulnerable groups like women, aged persons etc. and to any ethnic/indigenous groups that are getting affected by the project.

R&R plan has one of the criteria ‘Socio-economic status of the PAPs i.e. vulnerable groups, occupation,educational status, income, etc. forthe identification of the targetgroup’.Special efforts for welfare measures was made for SC/ST, Physically Challenged, Women Headed Household, Aged, etc. These also include special vocational training programmes, priority in engagement for suitable jobs and facilities, free/enhanced subsidized medical treatment, etc. Details provided in Section 7.4 of Chapter-7.

7 Impact Prediction and Mitigation Measures

The adverse impact due to the proposed project should be assessed and effective mitigation steps to abate these impacts should be described.

The adverse impact due to the project delineated in Chapter-4.

Air Environment

i Changes in ambient and ground level concentrations due to total emissions from point, line and area sources.

As all equipment and DG sets have preventive maintenance program and pollution control system during construction. Therefore, no major impacts are envisaged due to total emissions from point, line and area sources. During operation phase, no pollutant emissions envisaged except intermittent low-level emissions from DG sets and vehicles. No major industry is located in study area, except

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Rammam HEPP Stage-II. Hence thre would be no significant change in ambient air quality and ground level concentrations due to project. Ambient air quality levels in study area are well within the permissible limits of NAAQS 2009. It indicates that there is no major impact on air quality due to DG sets and other emissions sources. Details are given in Section 4.5 of Chapter-4.

C4-20

ii Effect on soil, material, vegetation and human health.

No significant effects on soil, material, vegetation and human health are envisaged. Details are given in section 4.3, 4.7,4.8 of Chapter-4.

C4-3 C4-28 C4-34

iii Impact of emissions from DG set used for power during the construction, if any, on air environment.

A 250 kVA DG set with acoustic enclosure being utilized in the project site and emission levels are within the standards. Ambient air quality levels in study area are within the permissible limits of NAAQS 2009. It indicates that there is no major impact on air quality due to DG sets emissions. Details are given in section 4.5 of Chapter-4.

C4-19

iv Pollution due to fuel combustion in equipment’s and vehicles

The SPM emissions are minimal hence no significant impact on ambient air quality. Ambient air quality levels in study area are well within the permissible limits of NAAQS 2009. It indicates that there is no significant impact on ambient air quality due to fuel combustion in equipment and vehicles. Details are given in section 4.5 of Chapter-4.

C4-19

v Fugitive emissions from various sources

Adverse impacts on this account are not expected to be significant and water sprinkling is being resorted to at necessary places to



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suppress the dust. Details are given in section 4.5 of Chapter-4.

C4-19

Water Environment

i Changes in surface and ground water quality

No change in ground water quality and minimal change in surface water quality due to the construction activities, which is short-term impact. No ground water is being used for construction and same is also not envisaged during operation phase. Details are given in section 4.4 of Chapter-4.

C4-11

ii Steps to develop pisci-culture and recreational facilities

It is proposed to develop small gardens at 2 locations and few viewpoints along the periphery of the water spread area and power house site. pisci-culture activities will be promoted in consultation with fishery department. Details are given section 10.5 & 10.11 of Chapter-10.

C10-6 C10-20

iii Changes in hydraulic regime and downstream flow.

No major changes are envisaged as project is run-of-river hydraulic electric project. However, minimum environmental flow to be discharged from barrage will be about 18% of normal flow of river. Details are given in Section 2.4.10 of Chapter-2 and Section 4.4.2 of Chapter-4.

C2-15, C4-14

iv Water pollution due to disposal of sewage

No sewage disposal is envisaged as it is sent biodigester septic tank and treated water is being reused/recycled in plantation. Details are given in section 4.4 of Chapter-4.

C4-11

v Water pollution from labour colonies/ camps and washing equipment

The sewage quantity is too small w.r.t to river water to cause any adverse impact. However, it is being treated in biodigester septic tank. Settling tanks has been installed at crushers site to prevent sediments. Details are given in section 4.4 of Chapter-4.

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Land Environment

i Adverse impact on land stability, catchment of soil erosion, reservoir sedimentation and spring flow (if any) (a) due to considerable road construction / widening activity (b) interference of reservoir with the inflowing stream (c) blasting for commissioning of HRT, TRT and some other structures.

Minimal impacts are envisaged and specific management measures are suggested in Section-4.3 of chapter-4.

ii Changes in land use / land cover and drainage pattern

Impacts due to changes in land use / land cover and drainage pattern and mitigation measures are provided in Section 4.3 of Chapter-4.

C4-3

iii Immigration of labour population Immigration of labour is occurring only during the construction period only. Impact on land, air quality, water quality, local ecology and socio-economic environment due to immigration of labour and mitigation measures has been described in Section 4.3, 4.5 4.7 and 4.8 of Chapter-4.

C4-3 C4-19 C4-28 C4-34

iv Quarrying operation and muck disposal

A suitable area is earmarked for the disposal of muck generated during the construction phase. Muck disposal and mitigation measures are covered in Section 4.3 of Chapter-4. No quarrying is envisaged for the project and the requirement of construction material is met from muck generated.

C4-3

v Changes in land quality including effects of waste disposal

Minimal changes in land quality is envisaged as the land requirement is less due to Run of River project. Detailed are given in Section 4.3 of Chapter-4. Necessary management plan to minimize impact on land is provided in Section 10.3, 10.4 and 10.5 of Chapter-10.

C4-3

C10-3 C10-5 C10-6

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vi River bank and their stability Impacts on riverbank and its stability are shown in Sub-section 4.3.1 and 4.4.1 of Chapter-4.

C4-3 C4-11

vii Impact due to submergence Minimal impact as the project is envisaged as a run of river (ROR) scheme, with significant diurnal variations in water level. Impact is described in Sub-Section 4.4.2 of Chapter-4.

C4-14

Biological Environment

i Impact on forests, flora, fauna including wildlife, migratory avi-fauna, rare and endangered species, medicinal plants etc.

Anticipated environmental impacts and mitigation measures on biological environment is provided in Section 4.7 of Chapter-4.

C4-28

ii Pressure on existing natural resources

No significant pressure has envisaged on existing natural resources for long term. The impact on natural resources due to project has been discussed in Section 4.10 at Chapter-4.

C4-41

iii Deforestation and disturbance to wildlife, habitat fragmentation and wild animal’s migratory corridors

No wild animal’s migratory corridors, National Park and Wildlife sanctuary is located within the project area. Only 1.927 Ha. of forest land is converted which is quite degraded. The details are given in Sub-section 4.7.1 at Chapter-4.

C4-28

iv Compensatory afforestation-identification of suitable native tree species for compensatory afforestation and green belt.

The total land acquired for the project is about 74.007 ha, of which 1.927 ha is the forest land. During field study, it was found that the forest land acquired for the project do not contain any unique or rare or endangered species. Compensatory afforestation and identification of suitable native tree species are done by State Forest Department. The details of Compensatory afforestation are given in Section 10.7 of Chapter-10.

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v Impact on fish migration and habitat degradation due to decreased flow of water

The project is a Run of River (ROR) scheme, hence minimum impact on fish migration and habitat degradation due to decreased flow of water. The impact on fishes due to project is provided in Section 4.7.2 of Chapter-4. A Fish Management Plan to mitigate these impacts is provided in Section 10.12 of Chapter-10.

C4-31 C10-21

vi Impact on breeding and nesting grounds of animals and fish.

The project is a Run of River (ROR) scheme, therefore nesting and breeding will not have major impact. The impact is discussed in Section 4.7.2 of Chapter-4. A Fish Management Plan to mitigate these impacts is provided in Section 10.12 of Chapter-10.

C4-31 C10-21

Socio-economic aspects

i Impact on local community including demographic profile.

There is some migration of labor force from outside into the project area during construction phase, which may put some pressure on local settlements and resources. The project envisages all round development and growth in the region. However, few local people were affected in the form of acquisition of their land. Members of families were provided with R&R package as per NPRR-2003. Impact have been discussed in Section 4.8 of Chapter-4.

C4-34

ii Impact on socio-economic status Details provided in in Section 4.8 of Chapter-4.

C4-34

iii Impact on economic status. Various types of business-like shops, food-stall, tea stalls, etc. besides a variety of suppliers, traders, transporters will concentrate here and benefit immensely as demand will increase significantly for almost all types of goods and services. The business



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community as a whole will be benefited. Development of infrastructure and availability of reliable power supply as a result of the project realization would contribute to the stimulation of economic activities like small scale industries in the area. Details provided in Section 4.8.1 of Chapter-4.

C4-35

iv Impact on human health due to water / vector borne disease

Details provided in Section 4.8.2 of Chapter-4

C4-36

v Impact on increase traffic Details provided in Section 4.5.1 of Chapter-4.

C4-19

vi Impact on Holy Places and Tourism No Holy place like temples, Church, mosque and Monastery are located within project site. No Holy place of national importance is located within Study Area. The barrage of project will promote the tourism activities in the area. Details provided in section 4.8.2 of Chapter-4.

C4-36

vii Impacts of blasting activity during project construction which generally destabilize the land mass and leads to landslides, damage to properties and drying up of natural springs and cause noise population will be studies. Proper record shall be maintained of the baseline information in the post project period.

There would be controlled blasting is being done at project with all preventive measures to prevent any damage to surrounding area. Details provided in Section 4.5.1, 4.6.1 and 4.9 at Chapter-4.

C4-19 C4-22 C4-40

viii Positive and negative impacts likely to be accrued due to the project are listed.


C4-34

8 Environmental Management Plans

i Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) Plan should be prepared micro-watershed wise.

Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) Plan provided in section 7.2 of Chapter-7.

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Identification of free draining/ directly draining catchment based upon Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System (GIS) methodology and Sediment Yield Index (SYI) method of AISLUS, Deptt. of Agriculture, Govt. of India coupled with ground survey. Areas or watersheds falling under ‘very severe’ and ‘severe’ erosion categories should be provided and required to be treated. Both biological as well as engineering measures should be proposed in consultation with State Forest Department for areas requiring treatment. Year-wise schedule of work and monetary allocation should be provided. Mitigation measures to check shifting cultivation in the catchment area with provision for alternative and better agricultural practices should be included.

ii Compensatory Afforestation shall be prepared by the State Forest Department in lieu of the forest land proposed to be diverted for construction of the project as per the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. Choice of plants for afforestation should include native and RET species, if any. This will be a part of the forest clearance proposal.

Compensatory Afforestation Plan was prepared by the State Forest Department West Bengal and Sikkim. Amount deposited to State Forest Department, West Bengal and Sikkim for Compensatory Afforestation. Sikkim has been implemented the plan. Final Forest Clearance already accorded by MOEF&CC on 23.05.2008. Details provided in Section 10.7 of Chapter-10.

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iii Biodiversity and Wildlife Conservation and Management Plan for the conservation and preservation of rare, endangered or endemic floral/faunal species or some National Park/Sanctuary/ Biosphere Reserve or other protected area is going to get

Biodiversity and Wildlife Conservation and Management Plan for the conservation and preservation of rare, endangered or endemic floral/faunal species is provided in Section 10.8 of Chapter-10. A detailed Wildlife Conservation Plan has been

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affected directly or indirectly by construction of the project, then suitable conservation measures should be prepared in consultation with the State Forest Department and with the physical and financial details. Suitable conservation techniques (in-situ/ex-situ) will be proposed under the plan and the areas where such conservation is proposed will be marked on a project layout map

enclosed at Annexure-XVIII.

iv Fisheries Conservation and Management Plan – a specific fisheries management measures should be prepared for river and reservoir. If the construction of fish ladder/ fishway etc. is not feasible then measures for reservoir fisheries will be proposed. The plan will detail out the number of hatcheries, nurseries, rearing ponds etc. proposed under the plan with proper drawings. If any migratory fish species is getting affected then the migratory routes, time/season of upstream and downstream migration, spawning grounds etc will be discussed in details.

Fish Management Plan provided under Section 10.12 of Chapter-10.

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v Resettlement and Rehabilitation Plan needed to be prepared on the basis of findings of the socio-economic survey coupled with the outcome of public consultation held. The R&R package shall be prepared after consultation with the representatives of the project affected families and the State Government. Detailed budgetary estimates are to be provided. Resettlements site should be identified. The plan will also incorporate community development strategies.

One-time settlement for R&R package to affected PAPs has been agreed during VDAC meeting as per R&R policy. Cost provision for land including R&R was Rs. 59.20 Crores out of which, spent/ committed expenditure as on date under land head is Rs. 45.20 crores while R&R including CD/CER provisions is Rs. 19.03 Crores (within overall amount of Rs. 59.20 crores). Total of Rs. 3.58 Crores disbursed as per R&R policy till 31.03.2021. Land acquisition has been completed and R&R plan has been implemented by NTPC. Detailed R&R action Plan and its implementation is

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given in Section 7.4 of Chapter-7.

vi Green Belt Development Plan along the periphery of the reservoir, approach roads around the colonies and other project components, local plant species must be suggested with physical and financial details. A layout map showing the proposed sites for developing the green belt should be prepared.

As the proposed project is located in hilly area the area available for plantation is limited. Therefore NTPC will carry out plantation in nearby villages in consultation with forest department. Green belt development plan is provided in section 10.6 of Chapter-10.

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vii Reservoir Rim Treatment Plan for stabilization of land slide / land slip zones, if any, around the reservoir periphery is to be prepared based on detailed survey of geology of the reservoir rim area. Suitable engineering and biological measures for treatment of identified slip zones to be suggested with physical and financial schedule. Layout map showing the landslide/landslip zones shall be prepared and appended in the chapter.

As the Rammam HEPP stage-III is Run of River project and the storage capacity is limited to 0.27 MCM, no reservoir is envisaged. The surrounding loose rocks in water storage area of barrage will be dressed to prevent land slide, in future. Plantation will be done in surrounding area of barrage to mitigate land slide and land slip. Details has been provided in Section 10.20 of Chapter-10.

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viii Muck Disposal Plan suitable sites for dumping of excavated materials should be identified in consultation with State Pollution Control Board and State Forest Department. All muck disposal sites should be minimum 30 m away from the HFL of river. The quantity of muck to be generated and the quantity of muck proposed to be utilized shall be calculated in consultation with the project authorities. Details of each dumping site viz. area, capacity, total quantity of muck that can be dumped etc. should be worked out and discussed in the plan. Plan for rehabilitation of muck disposal sites should also be given. The L-section / cross section of muck disposal sites and approach roads should be

Anticipated environmental impacts and mitigation measures for Muck disposal is provided in Section 4.3.1 of Chapter-4. Muck disposal plan provided in section 10.4 of chapter-10

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given. The plan shall have physical and financial details of the measures proposed. Layout map showing the dumping sites vis-à-vis other project components will be prepared and appended in the chapter.

ix Restoration Plan for Quarry Sites and landscaping of colony areas, working areas, roads etc. Details of the coarse/fine aggregate/clay etc. required for construction of the project and the rock/clay quarries/river shoal sites identified for the project should be discussed along-with the Engineering and Biological measures proposed for their restoration with physical and financial details. Layout map showing quarry sites vis-à-vis other project components, should be prepared.

No quarrying is envisaged for the project and the requirement of construction material is met from muck generated.

x Study of Design Earthquake Parameters: A site specific study of earthquake parameters should be done. Results of the site specific earthquake design parameters should be approved by National Committee of Seismic Design Parameters, Central Water Commission (NCSDP), New Delhi.

The seismic study has been conducted by IIT Roorkee. The suggested Earth Quake (EQ) design parameters have been cleared from National Committee of Seismic Design Parameters (NCSDP) of CWC and are being adopted for design of the project components. (Report already submitted to MOEF, Shillong through e-mailin May 2011) (Ref. Compliance Report submitted vide NHL/RammamIII/11-12/01 dated 9th May 2011). A detailed seismo-tectonic evaluation of Rammam HEPP Stage-III is enclosed as Annexure-XXVIII.

xi Dam Break Analysis and Disaster Management Plan The outputs of dam break model should be illustrated with appropriate graphs and maps clearly bringing out the

As the Rammam HEPP stage-III is Run of River project, no Dam is envisaged. Further, the height of barrage is 23 m only and the storage capacity is limited to 0.27

A-499



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impact of Dam Break scenario. To identify inundation areas, population and structures likely to be affected due to catastrophic floods in the event of dam failure. DMP will be prepared with the help of Dam Break Analysis. Maximum water level that would be attained at various points on the downstream in case of dam break will be marked on a detailed contour map of the downstream area, to show the extent of inundation. The action plan will include Emergency Action and Management plan including measures like preventive action notification, warning procedure and action plan for co-ordination with various authorities.

MCM. As the river passes through deep gorge, the water spread in case of failure shall be restricted within the river banks only. Disaster Management Plan provided in Section 7.3 of Chapter-7.

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xii Water, Air and Noise Management Plans to be implemented during construction and post-construction periods

Water, Air and Noise Management Plans provided in Section 10.10, 10.11 & 10.15 of Chapter-10.

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xiii Public Health Delivery Plan including the provisions of drinking water supply for local population shall be in the EIA/EMP Report. Status of the existing medical facilities in the project area shall be discussed. Possibilities of strengthening of existing medical facilities, construction of new medical infrastructure etc. will be explored after assessing the need of the labour force and local populace.

Public Health Delivery Plan provided in Section 10.9 of Chapter-10.

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xiv Labour Management Plan for their Health and Safety.

Labour Management Plan provided in Section 10.2 of Chapter-10.

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xv Sanitation and Solid waste management plan for domestic waste from colonies and labour camps etc.

Adequate facilities for collection, conveyance and disposal of solid waste are developed. The solid wastes being disposed regularly through Nayabazar Jorethang Municipal Corporation (NJMC).



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Sanitation and Solid waste management details are provided in Section 10.2.3 of Chapter-10.

xvi Local Area Development Plan to be formulated in consultation with the Revenue Officials and Village Pancahayats. Appropriate schemes shall be prepared under EMP for the Local Area Development Plan with sufficient financial provisions.

VDAC (Village Development Advisory committee) for monitoring R&R activities have been constituted by DM of concerned districts which include representatives of Project Affected Persons. Infrastructure facilities like schools, community centre, roads are being developed by NTPC. Various plan and activities under CD/CER/CSR has been provided in Section 8.2 of Chapter-8 for development of local area and other welfare measures.

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xvii Environmental safeguards during construction activities including Road Construction.

Environmental protection measures during construction activities including Road Construction provided in Section 10.3 chapter-10.

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xviii Energy Conservation Measures for the work force during construction with physical and financial details. Alternatives will be proposed for the labour force so that the exploitation of the natural resource (wood) for the domestic and commercial use is curbed.

Energy Conservation Measures with provision of LPG provided in Section 10.2.4 of Chapter-10. At present LPG gas is being used for officers & staff engaged in the construction work. Adequate fuel for labour camp (30 LPG cylinders, Kerosene & fire wood) is provided by the contractor. Also, fuel depot at Jorethang (South Sikkim) is available within accessible reach from site. Regular preventive maintenance of heavy equipment is being done to save fuel and energy. LED lights are being used at road side to conserve energy.

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xxi Environmental Monitoring Programme to monitor the mitigatory measures implemented at the project site is required will be prepared. Provision for

Environmental Monitoring Programme provided in Chapter-6

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Environment Management Cell should be made. The plan will spell out the aspects required to be monitored, monitoring indicators/ parameters with respect to each aspect and the agency responsible for the monitoring of that particular aspect throughout the project implementation.

xx A summary of Cost Estimates for all the plans, cost for implementing all the Environmental Management Plans.

Summary of Cost Estimates for all the plans, cost for implementing all the Environmental Management Plans provided in Section 10.19 of Chapter-10.

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CHAPTER – I

INTRODUCTION



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CHAPTER-1 INTRODUCTION

1.0 GENERAL Electrical energy has a vital and significant role to play in the economy of any State.

To accommodate the need of growing population of country and an improved quality

of life, the demand for irrigation, drinking water and electric power is increasing day

by day. Comparing the projected growth of peak power demand, anticipated energy

requirement, there would be requirement of new projects and completion of under

construction projects.

NTPC has been exploring the possibility of tapping the potential of non-conventional

sources such as solar power, wind power, hydro power etc. Rammam Hydro Power

Project is one such project, the construction of which was started by NTPC in year

2014. However, due to several reasons, (due to late receipt of tree felling permission,

Gorkha land movement, intermittent strikes by villagers, etc.) the construction of the

project could not be completed within the extended validity period of its

Environmental Clearance. The present EIA Report is prepared to obtain a fresh

Environmental Clearance for Rammam HEPP (3x40 MW), in order to complete its

construction.

Hydropower or water power is power derived from the energy of falling or fast-

running water, which may be harnessed for useful purposes. Hydro power is a

renewable, economical, non-polluting and eco-friendly source of energy. This form of

green energy, unlike energy from fossil fuel sources, entails no discharge of waste or

emission of harmful hydrocarbons and other gases in the atmosphere. Power

generation from such projects is also comparatively less damaging for the

environment. Hydropower has generated a great deal of interest in India because it is

in-exhaustible source of energy and a clean method of providing electricity to far

flung areas in hilly regions.

1.1 BRIEF DETAILS OF THE PROJECT NTPC Limited is constructing Rammam Hydro Electric Power Project (HEPP), Stage

III (3x40 MW) in Darjeeling District of West Bengal. The project is located on



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Rammam River, which flows along the border of West Bengal and Sikkim at about 50

km from Ghoom and 130 km from Siliguri on Siliguri-Darjeeling Road in District

Darjeeling of West Bengal.

The site for diversion structure is located downstream at the confluence of Rammam

with Lodhama khola near Lodhama village just downstream of the power house of

Rammam Stage-II hydroelectric project (51 MW under operation by West Bengal

State Electricity Board). The site for power house is located near village Barbatia on

the right bank of River Rammam. All the major project components are located in the

State of West Bengal except the right abutments of the Barrage structure and a portion

of submergence area in Siktam Block of West Sikkim. Techno Economic Clearance

(TEC) for the project has been obtained from Central Electricity Authority

(CEA)/Govt. of India vide letter dated 12.09.2006 and revalidated on 01.08.2013 and

the construction of the project started in September 2014. However, as the

construction of the project is likely to continue beyond the validity period of

Environmental Clearance (EC), the EIA study has been conducted to obtain fresh EC

from MOEF&CC.

1.2 IDENTIFICATION OF PROJECT & PROJECT PROPONENT NTPC Limited (A Govt. of India Enterprise), is the largest power generating company

in India. It was set up by Government of India (GoI) in November, 1975 with the

objective of planning, promoting and organizing integrated development of thermal

power in the country. In 1997, NTPC was conferred “Navratna” status by GoI and in

2007, it became the first public sector company to be granted “Maharatna” status.

NTPC is now emerging as a well-diversified company on its way of becoming an

Integrated Power Major, having entered into hydro power, coal mining, power

trading, equipment manufacturing, power distribution business and renewable energy

generation. Company also plans to enter into nuclear power development.

Presently, NTPC generates power from Coal, Gas, Hydro and Renewable (i.e. Solar

and Wind) projects. With an installed capacity of 65,810 MW (as on June 2021),

NTPC is the largest power generating major in the country. With an increasing

presence in the power value chain, NTPC is well on its way to becoming an Integrated

Power Major. Considering the track record of the company, Govt. of India,



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subsequently allowed NTPC to venture into hydro power development and other non-

conventional energy sources. NTPC is presently implementing number of Greenfield

and expansion projects in thermal and hydro areas.

NTPC is already operating Koldam Hydro Power Project (800 MW) in Himachal

Pradesh. Further Rammam Hydro Power Project (120 MW) in West Bengal &

Tapovan Vishnugad Hydropower Project (540 MW) in Uttarakhand are under

execution.

1.3 HYDRO POTENTIAL India has an estimated hydropower potential of 1,45,320 MW, excluding small hydro

projects (SHPs). At the end of February 2020, installed capacity was about 45,700

MW. Only about 10,000 MW of hydropower could be added over the last 10 years. In

a bold move, the Government of India accorded Renewable Energy (RE) status to

large HEPs in March 2019, enabling new HEPs to receive concessions and green

financing available to RE projects.

Advantage of Hydro Power

A renewable source of energy - saves scarce fuel reserves.

Non-polluting and hence environment friendly.

Long life - The first hydro project completed in 1897 is still in operation at

Darjeeling.

Cost of generation, operation and maintenance is comparable than the other

sources of energy.

Ability to start and stop quickly and instantaneous load acceptance/rejection

makes it suitable to meet peak demand and for enhancing system reliability

and stability.

Has higher efficiency (over 90%) compared to thermal (35%) and gas (around

50%).

Cost of generation is free from inflationary effects after the initial installation.

Storage based hydro schemes often provide attendant benefits of irrigation,

flood control, drinking water supply, navigation, recreation, tourism,

pisciculture etc.



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Being located in remote regions leads to development of interior backward

areas (education, medical, road communication, telecommunication etc.)

1.4 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process to identify, predict

and evaluate the environmental effects of proposed actions and projects. The purpose

of EIA study is to provide information for decision-making on the environmental

consequences of proposed actions and promote environmentally sound and

sustainable development through the identification of appropriate enhancement and

mitigation measures. The EMP (Environmental Management Plan) provides a plan

meant for reducing the adverse impacts of the project.

As per Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification dated 14th September,

2006 and its subsequent amendments, hydroelectric power generation projects >50

MW falls under category ‘A’ of activity 1(c) requires prior Environmental Clearance

(EC) to be obtained from MoEF&CC before the commencement of ground activity.

Earlier Ministry of Environment Forest & Climate Change (MOEF&CC) accorded the

Environmental Clearance (EC) for project vide letter No. J-12011/42/2007-IA.I dated

17.08.2007 with a validity period of 10 years. Further, MOEF&CC vide its letter

dated 13.07.2017, extended the validity of Environmental Clearance (EC) for a further

period of 3 years i.e. up to 16.08.2020.

MOEF&CC vide Notification dated 18.01.2021 (Copy enclosed at Annexure-I) has

amended the EIA Notification, 2006 and made a provision that period from

01.04.2020 to the 31.03.2021 shall not be considered for the purpose of calculation of

the period of validity of prior Environmental Clearance in view of outbreak of Corona

Virus (COVID-19) and subsequent lockdowns. In this regard, the Environment

Clearance for Rammam HEPP is valid till 16.08.2021.

An application for extending the validity of the Environment Clearance (EC) of the

Rammam Hydro Power Project, Stage-III (3X40 MW) was submitted by NTPC vide

letter dated 28.02.2020 and 11.05.2020 citing the reasons for delay and plan of

commissioning. The proposal was considered during the EAC meeting held on

15.05.2020 and as per MOM of EAC posted on the website of MoEF&CC, EAC


RAMMAM HYDRO ELECTRIC PROJECT

STAGE - III (3 x 40 MW)

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suggested the Project Proponent to apply de novo for processing of fresh

Environmental Clearance.

Application for approval of Terms of Reference (TOR) for generation of fresh baseline environmental data and upgradation of EIA report for Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW) was submitted to MoEF&CC on 07.07.2020. The proposal was considered in the EAC meeting held on 29.07.2020. MoEF&CC issued Terms of Reference for the Rammam Hydro Power Project, Stage III (3x40 MW) vide F.No. J-12011/11/2020-IA-I (R) dated 12th February, 2021 (Copy enclosed at Annexure-II) for the preparation of the EIA/EMP report. Pointwise compliance of Additional TOR and Standard TOR along with the Index of Compliance is presented in the Contents Section (C0-15 to C0-49) is enclosed as Annexure-II A. NTPC has appointed M/s. SV Enviro Labs & Consultants, Visakhapatnam for carrying out this Environmental Impact Assessment study for Rammam HEPP as per the EIA Notification, 2006 and MOEF&CC TOR. SV Enviro Labs & Consultants has accreditated by NABET, Quality Council of India, New Delhi for carrying out EIA studies of various sectors including hydro power projects. Since the project is in advanced stage of construction and more than 50% has been completed, it is exempted from requirement of public hearing as per MoEF&CC Notification S.O. 1247(E) dated 18.03.2021 (Copy enclosed at Annexure-III).

1.5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF NATURE, SIZE, LOCATION OF THE PROJECT

1.5.1 Nature of the Project

The Rammam Stage-III project is a Run of River (ROR) scheme utilizing power

potential of Rammam River from elevation EL. 900.0 m to EL. 397.0 m.

1.5.2 Size of the Project

The capacity of the project is 120 MW (3x40MW). The total land required for the

project is 74.007 Ha of which 66.777 Ha is acquired in West Bengal and the balance

7.3 Ha is acquired in Sikkim.

1.5.3 Location of the Project

All the major project components are located in the State of West Bengal except the

right abutments of the Barrage structure and a portion of submergence area in Siktam

Block of West Sikkim.



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1.6 BACKGROUND OF THE PROJECT Ministry of Environment Forest & Climate Change (MOEF&CC) accorded the

Environmental Clearance (EC) for Rammam Hydro Electric Power Project (HEPP),

Stage-III (3X40 MW), vide letter No. J-12011/42/2007-IA.I dated 17.08.2007 with a

validity period of 10 years. Further, MoEF&CC vide its letter dated 13.07.2017,

extended the validity of Environmental Clearance (EC) for a further period of 3 years

i.e. up to 16.08.2020.


amended the EIA Notification, 2006 and made a provision that period from

01.04.2020 to the 31.03.2021 shall not be considered for the purpose of calculation of

the period of validity of prior Environmental Clearance in view of outbreak of Corona

Virus (COVID-19) and subsequent lockdowns. In this regard, the Environment

Clearance for Rammam HEPP is valid till 16.08.2021.

MoEF&CC has issued Terms of Reference for the Rammam Hydro Power Project,

Stage III (3x40 MW) vide F.No. J-12011/11/2020-IA-I (R) dated 12th February, 2021.

1.6.1 Statutory Clearances The construction of the project was started after obtaining all statutory clearances.

The details of statutory clearances for the project is as follows:

1. Memorandum of Implementation Agreement with WBSEB signed on

28.04.2005 which is provided as Annexure-IV2. Techno Economic Clearance (TEC) was accorded by CEA on 12.09.2006 and

re-validated on 01.08.2013 which is attached as Annexure-V3. Inter State Agreement between West Bengal & Sikkim signed on 26.06.2007

which is attached as Annexure-VI4. NOC obtained from Ministry of Defence on 20.01.2006 which is attached as

Annexure-VII5. EC was accorded by MOEF&CC vide letter No. J-12011/42/2007- IA.I dated

17.08.2007 with a validity period of 10 years which was subsequently

extended vide MoEF&CC letter dated 13.07.2017, for a further period of 3

years i.e. up to 16.08.2020 and attached as Annexure-VIII. EC was further

extended up to 16.08.2021.



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6. Wildlife Clearance accorded by Directorate of Forest, GoWB on 01.02.2008

which is attached as Annexure-IX7. Final Forest Clearance accorded by MOEF&CC on 23.05.2008 which is

attached as Annexure-X8. Consent to Establish are available from West Bengal Pollution Control Board

and SPCB, Sikkim which are attached as Annexure-XI9. MoEF&CC notification S.O. 4254 (E) dated 27.11.2020 Extension of Validity

of Environmental Clearance attached as Annexure-XII10. Investment Approval accorded/ Construction started in September, 2014.

Scheduled completion of the project was in September, 2019 and the

anticipated completion is by December, 2026.

11. NTPC has already spent Rs. 762.68 Crores out of the total approved project

cost of Rs. 1381.84 Crores on the project. Total spent is about 55% of the said

approved Project cost.

12. Out of total approved expenditure of Rs. 34.14 crores towards environment &

ecology and community development an amount of Rs. 17.48 crores has

already been spent.

13. The project site was inspected by Integrated Regional Office, MOEF&CC

Kolkata on 23.03.2021 and 24.03.2021. Certified Report No: 102-166/07/EPE

dated 06.04.2021 from MoEF&CC, Integrated Regional Office, Kolkata is

attached as Annexure-XIII.

1.6.2 Current Status of Work The units are under advance stage of construction and is expected to be commissioned

by

Unit I: October, 2026 Unit II: November, 2026 Unit III: December, 2026

The EIA is required for seeking fresh Environmental Clearance (EC) from the

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). The progress of

construction work is shown in following photographs.



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ADIT – 1 DC -1 GANTRY (ADIT-1)

BARRAGE ADIT – 1

POWER HOUSE SLOPE SWITCH YARD

Progress of Construction Work at Rammam HEPP



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1.7 LOCATION & ACCESSIBILITY

Rammam Hydro Power Project, Stage-III (3X40 MW) is located in District

Darjeeling (West Bengal) & West Sikkim (Sikkim). It is a Run of the River (ROR)

scheme utilizing power potential of Rammam River from elevation EL. 900.0 m to

EL. 397.0 m. All the major project components are located in the State of West

Bengal except the right abutments of the Barrage structure and a portion of

submergence area in Siktam Block of West Sikkim. The Latitude and Longitude of

the Diversion Structure and Barrage are given in Table-1.1

Table-1.1 Coordinates of Project Components

Project Component Latitude Longitude Diversion Structure 27°06'47" N 88°08'39" E Township 27°07'47" N 88°12'55" E Power House 27°07'25" N 88°13'20" E

The location map and vicinity map of the project is shown in Fig 1.1 and 1.2

respectively. The topographical map with project components superimposed is shown

in Fig 1.3

The project is about 50 km from Ghoom (Siliguri-Darjeeling Road) and about 130 km

from Siliguri in Darjeeling District of West Bengal. The nearest rail head is New

Jalpaiguri (at about 115 km) and the nearest airport is Bagdogra (at about 110 km).



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Fig 1.1 Location map



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Fig 1.2 Vicinity Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW)



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Fig 1.3 Topo Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW)

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR RAMMAM HYDRO ELECTRIC PROJECT

STAGE-III (3 x 40 MW)

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1.8 NEED FOR THE PROJECT & ITS IMPORTANCE TO THE COUNTRY AND REGION Power development is one of the key infrastructural elements for the economic

growth of the country. The power system operation stability requires the system to

minimize fluctuations between demand and supply. In the recent years, India’s energy

consumption has been increasing at fast rates in the world due to population growth

and economic development. As per the CEA Annual Report 2019, the projected Peak

Demand is 226 GW and Energy requirement is 1,566 BU at the end of year 2021-22.

By 2021-22, the Renewable Energy capacity target has been set to 175 GW. The

Renewable Energy Generation will contribute about 20.1 % of the total energy

requirement in 2021-22.

More than 60% of India’s total installed capacity is thermal-based (Table-1.2).

However expansion of this energy source is encountering difficulties because of the

burden it places on the infrastructure for supply (mines) and transportation (railways)

of coal. Hydropower provides a number of ancillary services which are needed in

order to manage a transmission system in a way that secures system stability and

security of supply. Hydropower brings a strong contribution to flexibility in the power

system today filling the gap between supply and demand that has been induced by the

non-dispatchable variability of RES.

Table-1.2 All India Installed capacity (in MW) of power stations

(As on 31.01.2021) Region Ownership/

Sector Mode wise breakup Grand

Total Thermal Nuclear Hydro RES* Coal Gas Diesel Total

Northern Region

State 16909.00 2879.20 0.00 19788.20 0.00 5103.75 725.51 25617.46 Private 14450.00 558.00 0.00 15008.00 0.00 2613.00 17038.11 34659.11 Central 12540.00 2344.06 0.00 14884.06 1620.00 11516.52 379.00 28399.58 Sub Total 43899.00 5781.26 0.00 49680.26 1620.00 19233.27 18142.62 88676.15

Western Region


Southern Region


Eastern State 7450.00 100.00 40.05 7590.05 0.00 4458.25 280.36 12328.66



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Region Private 7667.00 0.00 0.00 7667.00 0.00 399.00 1318.81 9384.81 Central 19710.00 0.00 0.00 19710.00 0.00 1005.20 15.10 20730.30 Sub Total 34827.00 100.00 40.05 34967.05 0.00 5862.45 1614.27 42443.77

North Eastern Region


ALL INDIA


Source: Central Electricity Authority *RES-Renewable Energy Sources

1.8.1 Demand Supply Gap

The demand supply scenario has been analyzed in the following sections to establish

the techno-economic feasibility of the project. The anticipated power demand supply

position of All India, Eastern Region and West Bengal with and without the benefits

of subject project has been worked out considering the following:

1. The demand as per 19th EPS.

2. The benefit of Power from Private Sector Projects is considered only to the state

in which the Project is located.

3. The project is in advanced stage of construction and its all three units (Unit 1, 2 &

3) are expected to be commissioned by December 2026.

4. The All India Demand-Supply scenarious by 2026-27 was given in Table-1.3 and

the Eastern Region Demand-Supply Scenarios by 2026-27 was given in Table-1.4.

Table-1.3 All India Demand-Supply Scenarios by 2026-27

Description Units 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 Peak Load MW 238899 25228 266844 282418 298774

Energy MKWH 1650594 173961 1836001 1939111 2047434

Table-1.4 Eastern Region Demand-Supply Scenarios by 2026-27

Description Units 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 2026-27 Peak Load MW 29428 30879 32401 33998 35674

Energy MKWH 179613 188410 197636 207315 217468



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Although, the proportion of Hydro Electric Power (13.84%) in terms of installed

Capacity (MW) at Eastern Region (ER) is close to the national average of 12.33%, but

the proportion of Hydro + Renewable Energy source (RES) at ER is only 17.42% in

comparison to the national average of 35.92% (Country wide installed capacity dated

31.05.20 has been considered). As the scope of installation of Wind Power or Solar

PV generating stations, the main two components of RES in India are less in ER,

hence in ER, emphasis should be put on installing medium to small hydro power

generating units for enriching the proportion of green energy.

As per National Electricity Plan (NEP), 2018, Capacity addition in between 2017-22

in Hydro Power Sector in ER is limited to only one project, i.e. Rammam HPP, Stage-

III (3x40 MW) by NTPC.

Ministry of Power has given following allocation:

S.No. State Share in installed capacity (%)

Equivalent quantum in installed capacity (MW)

1. West Bengal 73 87.6 2. Sikkim 12 14.4 3. Unallocated 15 18

Total 100 120

As per the interstate agreement between Sikkim & West Bengal, the share of power of

the Sikkim Government (12%) will be made available to the Sikkim Government at

free of cost. The Rammam Stage-III Hydro Electric Power Project would not only

meet the power requirements, but would also improve the ratio of hydro, thermal mix

as well.

1.9 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK The emerging environmental scenario calls for requisite attention on conservation and

proper use of natural resources and also development without destruction. There is a

need of integrate the environmental consequences of the development activities and to

planning suitable mitigation measures in order to ensure sustainable development in

the region. The environmental consideration in any development process have

become a necessity for achieving sustainable developmental to achieve these goals,



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the Ministry of Environment & Forest, Govt. of India has enacted Acts, Legislations,

Guidelines and Standards from time to time.

The regulation of environment acts, legislation, guidelines and standards is the

responsibility of different government agencies. The principle environmental

regulatory agency in India in the Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate

Change, New Delhi. MoEF&CC formulates environmental policies and accords

environmental clearances for different projects. The important environmental

legislations in India are given in Table-1.5.

Table-1.5 Key Environmental Legislations pertaining to Hydro projects

Name Scope and Objective Key Areas Operational

Agencies/Key Play Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, 1988

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

Control sewage and industrial effluent discharges

Central and State Pollution Control Boards

Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, 1987

To provide for the prevention and control of air pollution

Controls emission of air pollutants

Central and State Pollution Control Board

Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980

To consolidate acquisition of common property such as forest, halt India’s rapid deforestation and resulting environmental degradation

Regulates access to natural resources, state has a monopoly right over land, categories forests, restriction on de-reservation and using forest for non forest purpose

State Government and Central Government

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

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

Wildlife Advisory Boards, Central zoo Authorities

Environment To provide for the An umbrella Central government



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(Protection) Act, 1986

protection and improvement of environment

legislation, supplements pollution laws

nodal agency, MoEF&CC can delegate to state departments of environment

National Policy on R & R, 2007 and Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013”.

Resettlement and rehabilitation of project affected people

Social issues Central and State Government

EIA Notification 14th September 2006

Environment Impact Assessment

Environmental Protection

Project Development, State and Central Government

1.10 SCOPE OF THE STUDY The scope of the EIA study considers the impact due to setting up Rammam Satge-III

Hydro Electric Project (ROR) of 3x40 MW capacity in Darjeeling district of West

Bengal and West Sikkim district of Sikkim on physical, biological and socioeconomic

environment of the surrounding areas in compliance to the approved ToR provided by

MoEF&CC. The scope of the EIA study includes the following:

To establish the prevailing environmental and socio-economic condition of the

study area;

To assess environmental and socioeconomic impacts arising out of the

proposed activities;

To recommend appropriate preventive and mitigation measures to eliminate or

minimize pollution;

To identify and propose management plans in terms of good practices that

may help in abating environmental or socio-economic impacts due to the

project;

To prepare a Disaster Management Plan (DMP), Catchment Area Treatment

(CAT) Plan and Resettlement and Rehabilitation Plan.

The study area for the EIA study shall be as under:

Submergence area



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• Area within 10 km of periphery of submergence area & other project

appurtenances viz. Barrage, Power House, Muck Disposal etc. and

As per the approved Terms of Reference, one season baseline data has been collected

for all environmental attributes including biological environment for the preparation

of the EIA/EMP report. Environmental baseline monitoring was carried out during

July’ 2020 to September’ 2020 representing monsoon season and used to identify

potential significant impacts.

1.11 ENVIRONMENTAL PARAMETERS IN THE STUDY AREA Collection of base line data is an integral aspect of the preparation of Environmental

Impact Assessment report. Baseline data reflects the present scenario of Environment

before the initiation of any activity of the project. The possible effects due to the

project are estimated and superimposed on the compiled baseline data subsequently to

assess Environmental impacts.

Project environment assessment was conducted in the study area during July’ 2020 to

September’ 2020. Studies were under taken to generate base line data of the

following:-

1. Geology

2. Hydrology

3. Meterology

4. Ambient Air Quality

5. Water Quality – Ground Water & Surface Water

6. Ambient Noise Quality

7. Soil Quality

8. Ecology

9. Land Use / Land Cover

10. Socio-Economy.

1.12 GENERIC STRUCTURE OF EIA DOCUMENT In terms of the EIA notification of MoEF&CC dated 14th September 2006 and its

subsequent amendments, the generic structure of the EIA document is as follows:



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Chapter – I: Introduction

The chapter gives an overview of the project details, identification of project &

project proponent, nature, size and location of the project, purpose of the study, need

for the project and its importance to country and region, policy, legal and

administrative framework, scope and methodology adopted for EIA study.

Chapter – II: Project Description The chapter narrates the project background, size or magnitude of the operation,

salient features of the project, project description, infrastructure requirements and

associated facilities, project colonies/buildings and project schedule and cost estimate.

Chapter – III: Environmental Baseline Study The chapter covers identification of the study area and baseline study of the physico-

chemical and biological environmental condition of the study area. The rationale is to

evaluate the key environmental parameters of the project area before its actual

implementation. The planning of baseline survey emanated from short listing of

impacts assessed during identification. The baseline study involved both review of

secondary data and generation of primary data through field studies.

Chapter – IV: Impact Assessment & Mitigation Measures The chapter assesses the anticipated impacts (positive and negative) arising during

various phases of the project. Prediction is essentially a process to forecast the future

environmental conditions of the project area that may occur as a result of the project

activities. An attempt has been made to predict future environmental conditions

quantitatively on the present and possible scenario. Based on the anticipated impacts,

the mitigation measures have been suggested.

Chapter – V: Analysis of alternatives (Technology and site) The chapter provides the alternate location and technology analyzed for various

parameters in the project.



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Chapter – VI: Environmental Monitoring Programme Environmental Monitoring Programme to ensure effectiveness of the environmental

management plan during various phases of project advancement and health, safety

and environmental management cell is briefed in this chapter.

Chapter – VII: Additional Studies The Chapter depicts the Public Hearing outcomes and identifies the risks associated

with the project, CAT Plan, and Disaster Management Plan to be implemented in the

event of an emergency.

Chapter – VIII: Project Benefits The Chapter discusses the overall benefits which will accrue after implementation of

the project to cover power demand of central and state governments, employment

generation and overall economic development.

Chapter – IX: Environmental Cost Benefit Analysis The chapter covers details of cost and Benefits related to Rammam HEPP.

Chapter – X: Environmental Management Plan The chapter details the Environment Management Plan (EMP) to maximize the

positive environmental impacts and to minimize the negative ones.

Chapter – XI: Summary & Conclusion

This chapter provide the summary of EIA study and gives conclusions &

recomondations for appraisal of EC.

Chapter – XII: Disclosure of Consultants engaged

This chapter describe the accreditation of EIA Consultant and associated expert in

EIA Study.

CHAPTER – II

PROJECT DESCRIPTION




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CHAPTER-2

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.0 GENERAL

Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW) is a Run of the River (ROR) Scheme Project

located on Rammam River (Teesta River basin), which flows along the border of

West Bengal and Sikkim at about 130 km from Siliguri on Siliguri-Darjeeling Road in

District Darjeeling of West Bengal.

The site for diversion structure is located downstream at the confluence of Rammam

with Lodhama khola near Lodhama village just downstream of the power house of

Rammam Stage-II HEPP (51 MW under operation by WBSEB). The site for

powerhouse is located near village Barbatia on the right bank of River Rammam.

2.1 LOCATION OF PROJECT

Rammam Stage-III H.E Project is a Run of the River (ROR) scheme utilizing power

potential of Rammam River from elevation 900 m to 397 m, in the District of

Darjeeling, West Bengal with an installed capacity of 120 MW (3x40 MW). All the

major project components are located in the State of West Bengal except the right

abutments of the Barrage structure and a portion of submergence area in Siktam

Block of West Sikkim.

Location of the project components on 1:50,000 scale toposheet is presented in Fig.

2.1.

The location of the project on google map is shown in Fig 2.2.

The location of the project with respect to National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary and their

eco-sensitive zones is shown in Fig 2.3.




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Fig 2.1: Topo Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW)




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Justification of location & execution of the project in relation to structural

components (Barrage height)

As the project is a Run of River project, a barrage is being constructed in place of

Dam. The barrage height (23 m) has kept considering the location and structure

component of project. Details of structural components of Rammam HEPP project are

given in Table: 2.1.

The project is in advanced stage of construction after Techno-economic Clearance by

CEA and Environmental Clearance by MOEF&CC. As per Detailed Project Report

(DPR), the location for execution of the project was found feasible.

None of the project components are located within National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuary

or other protected area or within the notified Eco sensitive zones of these protected

area. As confirmed by CCF (WL), West Bengal vide letter dated 01.02.2008 copy

attached as Annexure-XIV, the project area is at a distance of about 7.1 km from the

nearest boundary of Eco-sensitive Zone of Singalila National Park. However, the

Singalila National Park is about 9.0 km from the project components as notified by

MOEF&CC notification No. S.O. 3613 (E) dated 16.11.2017 (copy enclosed as

Annexure-XV). The Eco Sensitive Zone of Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is at 4.2

km from the project site and 4.4 km away from boundary of Barsey Rhododendron

Sanctuary, West Sikkim notified by MOEF&CC notification No.S.O.2172 (E) dated

27.08.2014 (copy enclosed as Annexure-XVI) and about 10 km from the nearest

boundary of the reserve forest area of Darjeeling Territorial Forest Division.

2.2 SIZE OR MAGNITUDE OF OPERATION

The capacity of the project would be 120 MW with installation of 3 units of 40MW

each. Township with adequate nos. quarters/facilities/infrastructure shall be

constructed to accommodate staffs of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III.

Project Area: 74.077 Ha (excluding submergence area)

Submergence area: 3.852 Ha.

Catchment Area: 5273 Ha (WB side: 3808 Ha + Sikkim side: 1465 Ha)




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Fig 2.2 Location Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III




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Fig 2.3 Location Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III w.r.t. NP/ WLS & their Eco-sensitive Zones




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2.3 SALIENT FEATURES OF THE PROJECT

The project consists of 23 m high Barrage (above u/s apron level) 122.5m long

Barrage near Lodhama Village and approximately 10.75km of water conductor

system (8.2 km long 3.5m dia horse shoe shape head race tunnel, 1.6 km long

Penstock and 0.74 km long tailrace channel etc.). It has also a 14.5 m dia 53.75m high

surge shaft and a deep seated surface power house near Barbatia village on right bank

of the Rammam River.

The project is envisaged to use water from catchment area of 247sq. km. The Full

Reservoir Level (FRL) of the pondage behind the Barrage structure has been fixed at

EL903m with a view to provide sufficient storage capacity above Minimum Draw

Down Level to provide optimum peaking operation of more than 2 hours at a time.

The Minimum Draw Down Level (MDDL) is fixed at EL 892m. The storage at FRL

is 0.27MCM and at MDDL is 0.05MCM.

Storages between FRL and MDDL is 0.22 MCM. About 476 MU will be generated

using 28.31 cumec of discharge excluding a 4.69 cumec of water to flush silt and

1 cumec of water as environmental flow. Upstream of Rammam Stage-III is 51

MW Rammam Stage-II project and on the downstream there is no project on the

Rammam River till its confluence with Rangit River.

However at present during the construction stage, no impounding/ stoppage of river

water flow is being done. The river has been diverted through diversion channel to

facilitate the construction of Barrage. The salient features of the project are given in

Table 2.1

Table-2.1

Salient Features of Rammam Stage-III Hydroelectric Project

1 LOCATION a) State West Bengal b) District Darjeeling c) Latitude & Longitude Diversion Structure: 27°06'47" N,

88°08'39" E Township: 27°07'47" N, 88°12'55" E Power House: 27°07'25" N, 88°13'20" E

d) Nearest rail head New Jalpaiguri (115 KM)

e) Nearest Airport Bagdogra (110 KM)




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f) Approach/Access Road 50 Km From Ghoom (Siliguri-Darjeeling Road), 130 KM From Siliguri

g) Name of the River, Tributary Rammam h) Name of River basin Teesta Basin 2 HYDROLOGY AND CLIMATE a) Catchment Area up to head works 247 sq.km b) Average Annual Yield 686.56 MCM c) Maximum/Minimum Yield 1040.37 / 485.65 MCM d) Average annual rainfall 2800 mm e) Design Flood 1825 cumecs f) Ninety percent available discharge 15.43 cumecs g) Max. temperature 30o C h) Min. temperature 3o C i) Max. relative humidity 100% j) Design discharge for barrage/dam 1825 cumecs 3 BARRAGE/DAM a) Length of Barrage 122.5 m b) Height of Barrage 23 m (above u/s apron level) c) Number of gated bays 5 d) Type of gate Radial Gate (operated by hydraulic

hoists) e) Crest elevation 884.00 m (4bays)/882.00 m (1bay) f) Width of the top roadway 6.5 m 4 RESERVOIR a) Full Reservoir Level (FRL) 903.00 m b) Maximum Drawdown Level (MDDL) 892.00 m 5 INTAKE a) No of Intake 2 b) Design discharge of Intake 33.0 m3/sec d) Center line of Intake EL 887.50 m e) Nos. and size of Gates 2 (2.60 m x 2.850 m) each f) Type of Gates Fixed Wheel g) Intake Bulk Head Gate 1 No. 2.60 x 2.85 m fixed wheel type 6 DESILTING CHAMBER (Underground) a) Numbers 2 b) Size 140.0 x 7.50 x 12.55m c) Top level of trough EL. 876.85 m d) Bottom Level of Conduits EL. 875.85 m e) Design discharge 33.0 cumec f) Discharge (for flushing) 4.69cumec (for both SFT) g) Particle size to be removed 0.2 mm & above h) Efficiency of removal 90 % 7 HEAD RACE TUNNEL a) Alignment Right bank b) Length 8200 m




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c) Shape &Diameter Horseshoe & 3.5 m diameter d) Design discharge 28.31 m3/sec. e) Velocity 1.93m/sec. f) Number of adits 3 8 SURGE SHAFT a) Type Restricted orifice type b) Dia (m) 14.50 c) Height (m) 53.75 m d) Top Elevation (m) 923.0 e) Bottom Elevation (m) 869.25 9 PRESSURE SHAFT / PENSTOCK a) Type Circular b) Number of Pressure Shafts /

Penstocks One

c) Maximum discharge through pressure shaft / penstocks (cumecs)

28.31 cumecs

d) Dia. Of each pressure shaft / penstock 2.7 m e) Maximum Velocity 4.9 m / sec f) Length of pressure shaft / penstock 1526 m g) Penstock valve (type &dia) Butterfly, 2.5 m dia

10 POWER HOUSE

a) Type Deep Seated Surface Power House

b) Location Near village Barbatia in West Bengal

c) Number of units 3

Size of Power House 73.50 m x 22.40 m x 41.60 m

d) Rated unit capacity 40 MW

e) Installed capacity 120 MW

f) Max. Gross Head 495.33 m

g) Rated Head (m) 484.33 m

h) Type of turbine Vertical shaft pelton

i) Maximum flow through each unit 9.33 cumec

j) Generator

- Type - Power factor, generator voltage - Speed

Synchronous, Vertical Shaft 0.9, 11.0 kV 428.6 rpm

k) Size of machine hall 65.0 x 19 x 35m

l) Transformers – Type, Nos., No. of Phases, step – up voltage capacity

Single phase, 11 Nos., 16 mVA, 11/132/ √3 kV

m) Power House Cranes

- Nos. and Capacity (Ton) 1 EOT Crane with 125 T main hook & 25 T auxiliary hook

11 TAIL RACE CHANNEL a) Size 4m x 3m, Rectangular Section

b) Length 740 m

c) Tail Water Level 397.0 m (max.)




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12 SWITCHYARD

a) Type of Switchyard Conventional

b) Number of bays in the switchyard 9

c) Voltage Level 132 kV

d) Location Outdoor

13 ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY

Singalila National Park None of the project components are within the Eco-sensitive zone of Singlila National Park notified by MOEF&CC notification No. S.O. 3613 (E) dated 16.11.2017 (copy enclosed as Annexure-XV). The nearest boundary of Singalila National Park Eco-Sensitive Zone is located at about 7.1 km from the Rammam Stage-III HEPP. However, the Singalila National Park is about 9.0 km from the project components.

Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, West Sikkim

None of the project components are within the Eco-sensitive zone of Barsey Rhododendron wild life Sanctuary notified by MOEF&CC notification No.S.O.2172 (E) dated 27.08.2014 (copy enclosed as Annexure-XVI). The nearest boundary of Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary Eco-sensitive Zone is about 4.2 km from the Rammam Stage-III HEPP. However, the Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary is about 4.4 km from the project components.

14 R & R 275 families have lost only land. 61 families have lost land as well

as homesteads. 11 families have lost only

homesteads.15 TARIFF (As per Investment approval)

Levellised Rs. 6.51 kWhr

First years Rs. 7.88 kWhr

16 PROJECT COST

Total Cost of the Project As per EC: Rs. 633.92 Crores As per Inv. Approval: Rs. 1,381.84

Crores (2ndQtr, 2014)




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2.4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The project is envisaged to harness the hydropower potential of River Rammam. The

project comprises of diversion arrangement, desilting chamber, water conveyance

system, power house and tailrace. Installed capacity of the project will be 120 MW

and will utilize a design discharge of 28.31 cumecs.

The project comprises of the following components:

Barrage/dam as a diversion structure

Intake tunnel

Underground desilting chamber

HRT (Head Race Tunnel)

Surge Shaft

Surface Penstock

Vertical Pressure Shaft

Power House

Tail Race Channel (TRC)

The layout Map of the project component is shown in Fig 2.4A & General Layout

Plan is shown in Fig 2.4B. The above referred project appurtenances are briefly

described in the following sections:

2.4.1 Diversion structure

It is planned to construct a barrage with its axis about 200 m downstream of

confluence of Rammam River with Lodhama Khola. The barrage/dam has been

designed to have optimum pondage and capacity so as to safely pass a designed flood

of 1825 cumecs which correspond to Standard Project Flood (SPF) of the Rammam

River. It is proposed to provide surge shaft, hence, storage for diurnal peaking has

been made in the barrage only. The average bed level at barrage/dam site is 883.0 m

and maximum pond level for the barrage/dam has been kept at 903.0 m considering

the out fall level of Rammam Stage-II (EL 908.00 m). Storage between Maximum

Pond Level (EL 903.0) and Minimum Draw Down Level (EL 892.0) is 220,000.0

cum.




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Fig 2.4 A: Layout Map of Project Component




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Fig 2.4 B: General Layout Plan of Project




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The barrage is planned with three piers each of 4 m width and two abutments each of

size 2.75 m and the floor of the Barrage/dam has been designed as raft. Since

barrage/dam width is less than River width, it is proposed to construct flank wall

through in filled cellular wall. To prevent the seepage through foundation two rows of

grout curtain have been proposed. The grout curtain is proposed to be extended at

least 1.0 m in the fresh rock, which will provide a barrier for seepage below

barrage/dam foundation.

2.4.2 Intake and Intake Tunnel

Two intakes have been proposed on the right bank of the River at about 40 m

upstream of the barrage/dam axis to enable withdrawal of 32 cumecs of water. The

intake sizes have been fixed in such a way that the entry velocity through trash racks

is less than 1.0 m/sec. Two D -shaped intake tunnels of size 2.85 m have been

proposed to feed desilting chamber independently. As the geographical conditions of

rock on the right bank are quite competent and steep, placing of intake will not need

much stabilization measures. For preventing the entry of trash in the intake, trash rack

of adequate size has been provided.

2.4.3 Desilting Chamber

Considering the stability problem of hill slope and associated land acquisition etc. an

underground desilting chamber has been constructed in the project. Two underground

desilting chambers each of size 140.0 m x 7.5 m x 12.55 m is provided for collecting

the settled silt particle, which passes through a duct of size 0.75 m x 1.0 m for

flushing the settled silt particle. Combined silt flushing duct of size 2.0 m x 2.5 m will

be provided for disposing the settled silt back in the Rammam River. The total length

of silt flushing tunnel is 230 m.

2.4.4 Head Race Tunnel (HRT)

A horse shoe-shaped HRT with 3.5 m as finished diameter has been proposed with a

capacity to convey 28.31 cumecs from desilting chamber to surge shaft. The length of

HRT will be 8200m. For ease in construction, three adits of length 100m, 800m &

90m each have been proposed.




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2.4.5 Surge Shaft

Restricted orifice type, surge shaft of 14.5 m diameter is proposed to take care of rise

in water level due to surge created because of sudden change in operating conditions.

2.4.6 Pressure Shaft

For conveying the water from surge tank to power house, combination of surface

penstock and pressure shaft has been proposed. Optimum penstock diameter has been

finalized as 2.7 m. Initial 175 m penstock passes through tunnel, a surface valve house

is proposed. Subsequently 1211 m length of penstock runs on surface and considering

the topography and deep seated power house, last 140 meter has been proposed as

vertical and horizontal pressure shaft.

2.4.7 Power House

Surface power house of 120 MW (3 x 40 MW) is at the right bank of the Rammam

River, 50.0 m upstream of the confluence of the Ramsu Khola with Rammam River.

It houses three units of Pelton turbine having center line at EL 400.0 m.

2.4.8 Tail Race Channel

Tail Race Channel (TRC) of 4.0 m x 3.0 m is planned from power house to 707 m

downstream of power house. For protection against flood of intensity greater than 1 in

100 years, gated arrangement is proposed at the outfall structure. TRC will be a

concrete cut and cover section.

2.4.9 Hydro-Mechanical Works

The following are the hydro mechanical works:

i. Two sets of fixed type trash racks

ii. Four Nos. Radial gates, (3 nos-8 x 6m and 1 no-8 x 14m) operated with

Hydraulic hoist.

iii. One set of stop logs operated with gantry crane and lifting beam.

iv. Two Nos. of Intake gates operated with rope drum hoist supported on trestles.

v. One No. of Intake Bulk head gate operated with gantry crane.

vi. Two Nos. of desilting chamber gates operated with rope drum hoist.

vii. Two Nos. of silt flushing gates operated with hydraulic hoist.

viii. One No. surge shaft gate operated with rope drum hoist.




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ix. One No. Tail race gate operated with mono rail crane.

x. One No. tail race outfall gate at out fall operated with rope drum hoist

supported on trestle.

2.4.10 Minimum Flow in the River downstream of the barrage:

Environmental clearance for the projects was been accorded with a condition that

iv) A minimum flow of 1 cumec shall always be released from the

barrage. The minimum flow to be released is about 22% of the

minimum flow of 4.47 cumec recorded in the river

The project has been designed accordingly. However, the standard TOR condition

stipulates that the minimum environmental flow shall be 20% of the flow of four

consecutive lean months of 90% dependable year, 30% of the average monsoon flow.

The flow for remaining months shall be in between 20-30%, depending on the site

specific requirements.

The change in minimum flow as per Standard TOR at this stage shall drastically

reduce the power generation from the project and render the project commercially

unviable.

The issue of minimum flow in the rivers downstream of the hydro power projects has

been a subject of study and deliberations at different levels.

(a) National Green Tribunal in its Order dated 09/08/2017 in the matter of Pushp

Saini Vs. Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change & Others

regarding environmental flow of the rivers directed that all the rivers in the

country shall maintain minimum 15 % to 20% of the average lean season flow

of that river. During the same case, counsel appearing for Ministry of

Environment, Forest and Climate Change submitted that the Ministry has

already completed river basin study of 6 river basins i.e. Siang River Basin,

Twang River Basin, Bichom River Basin, Subansiri River Basin, Dibang

River Basin and Lohit River Basin and upon study the Ministry has

recommended the minimum flow of the river to be 18% of the average of lean




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season flow of the river. However, in some of the cases, it has stated to be

even 20%.

(b) Further, MOEF&CC has also undertaken a Cumulative Impact Assessment

and Carrying Capacity Study (CIA & CCS) of Teesta River Basin. The

minutes of EAC (Hydro) meeting held on 23.04.2019, during which a

presentation was made on the CIA and CCS Study, it was noted that

Rammam-II & Rammam-III are under operation and construction stage

respectively. However, for Rammam-I and Rammam Intermediate HEP

Environmental Flows have been recommended as per the following Norms:

Monsoon

Season

30% of average Discharge of monsoon season for 90%

Dependable Year

Non Monsoon

Non Lean

Season

25% of average Discharge of Non-Monsoon Lean season

for 90% Dependable Year

Lean Season 20% of average Discharge of lean season for 90%

Dependable Year

In view of the above, NTPC Rammam HEPP will maintain the minimum

Environmental flow of 1 cumecs as stipulated in the original environmental clearance.

2.5 LAND REQUIREMENT

The total land required for the project is 74.077 Ha of which 66.777 Ha is acquired in

West Bengal and the balance 7.3 Ha is acquired in Sikkim.

Details of Land Acquisition for Rammam HEPP, Stage-III given in Table 2.2

Total Govt. & Pvt. Land Acquired - 72.150 Ha.

Total Forest Land Diverted - 1.927 Ha.

Grand Total: 74.077 Ha




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Table-2.2

Details of land acquired

Description of Land Acquired

Acres Hectares

Government Land 25.561 10.344

Private Land 152.725 61.806

Diverted Forest Land (ROU) 4.761 1.927

Total Land 183.047 74.077

Entire land for the project has been acquired and is in physical possession of NTPC.

The land use has been permanently changed to industrial use due to construction of

Barrage Complex & Power House Complex including Approach Road,

Muck Disposal Area, Storage Facilities and Camps etc.

Entire land for the project has already been acquired earlier and the PAPs have been

compensated. However, the provisions of Right to Fair Compensation and

Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 were

not applicable at that time.

On time settlement for R&R package to affected PAPs has been agreed during VDAC

meeting as per R&R policy. Total of Rs. 3.58 Crores disbursed as per R&R policy till

31.03.2021.

2.6 INFRASTRUCTURE FACILITIES

2.6.1 Access Roads

The project is about 50 km from Ghoom (Siliguri-Darjeeling Road). Transportation of

heavy machines and equipment’s is required for construction of various components

of the project. The total length of road constructed is 29 km and details given in

Table-2.3. The road construction works done by NTPC is depicted in Fig 2.5 below




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Table-2.3 Length of Project Roads

Location Length (km) Location Remark Barrage/dam complex

4 Right bank of Rammam (Lodhama Bridge-Adit1-Adit2)

3.7 Km length under construction

Jhepi Adit crossing

11 Along right bank of Jhepi khola

Power house complex

2.7 Along right and left bank of River Rammam

2.0 Km Constructed

Surge shaft complex

11.3 Road from power house to surge shaft

6KM Constructed, WBM & protection measures under progress

Total 29 11.7 km constructed

KHARYA KHOLA BRIDGE (PUL BAZAR)

ROAD FROM POWER HOUSE TO NEJI VIA KHOPRAIL

Fig 2.5 Road Construction Work by NTPC Rammam HEPP




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2.6.2 Construction Materials and Equipment

Cement, Steel and Aggregates are the main raw materials required for construction of

project components. The aggregates can be easily obtained from nearby feasible

locations, which are acquired by the NTPC Rammam site.

The lists of major equipment being used during construction phase are:

Dozer

Dumpers

Loaders

Transit mixers

Drill jumbos

Rock bolting machine

Compressors

Drilling machines

DG sets

Pneumatic concrete placers

Concrete pumps

Ventilation equipment

Batching plant

Grouting, Guniting and Shotcreting equipment

Crushers, screening plant and rod mill

Mechanized construction has been adopted for almost all types of construction

activities so as to achieve consistent quality at a faster progress rate. Special attention

has been paid to the equipment planning for the underground works since the large

quantities involved and restricted work space coupled with geological constraints and

interdependence of various construction activities make this work very critical.

The sequencing of construction activities, wherever possible, has been attempted in

such a way that equipment from one activity, on its completion can be shifted to the

other. This way, the total requirement of equipment at a time would be reduced and

also, sufficient utilization of equipment on the project would be ensured.




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2.6.3 Project Township/Colonies

The area possesses moderate level of infrastructural facilities. The township

being constructed near Barbatia village shall be permanent residence for the

project. About 100 number of employees, supporting staff and CISF Staff will be

residing at site during operation phase of the project. NTPC has developed

prefabricated bachelor and office accommodation and other non-residential

buildings for staff of NTPC, CISF, Support Staff, etc. are under different stages of

construction. The project township view in shown in Fig 2.6 below

Fig 2.6 Project Township View

2.6.4 Water & Power Requirement

Water requirement from Rammam River is being met for the construction and other

activity. During operation phase, project will utilize the water from flow of River. The

domestic water requirement is about 50 m3/day. Water supply to the colony will be

met through pumping from Rammam River to treatment plant at EL 475 meters, and

piping network through gravity. Construction Power required for operating the

construction machineries during the construction phase, is being met from West

Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) and by DG set.

2.6.5 Muck generation & disposal

Muck of 0.99 Mm3 is expected to be generated from construction of project. Out of

which 0.40 Mm3 is being utilized as construction material. At the present the dumping

sites are already identified for muck disposal. The balance 0.59 Mm3 muck will be




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disposed at designated/identified site in a planned manner so that it takes a least

possible space and is not hazardous to the environment.

2.7 MANPOWER REQUIREMENT

The estimated no. of employees during operation phase of the project is estimated to

be about 50. Considering the staff of CISF and support services, it is estimated

that about 100 families will reside in the project township during operation

stage. However, during construction stage, the number of workers are much higher

(about 1000). Temporary labour colonies with amenities like water supply and

sanitation facilities including biodigester has been developed for the construction

phase. Total capacity of Biodigester being installed is 98 KL, cost of supply &

installation is Rs 70 Lakhs.

2.8 PROJECT SCHEDULE & COST ESTIMATES

The project is in advance stage of construction and anticipated completion of its all

three units (i.e. I, II & III) is by December 2026.

Total Cost of the Project is:

o As per EC: Rs. 633.92 Crores

o As per Inv. Approval: Rs. 1,381.84 Crores (2nd Qtr, 2014)

CHAPTER – III

DESCRIPTION OF

ENVIRONMENT




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CHAPTER-3

DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENT

3.0 INTRODUCTION

This chapter describes the existing environmental and socio-economic baseline for the

project and its surrounding area. Baseline data establishes the present status of the

environment identifies the sensitive receptors in the study area and provides the basis

for assessment of the impacts due to the project, and enabling the development of a

robust and comprehensive environmental management and monitoring plan.

The baseline quality of various components of the environment, viz. air, noise, water,

land, biological, meteorological and socio-economic factors are assessed within the

impact zone of 10 km radius around the project site. Secondary data has also been

incorporated from authentic sources viz. Govt./Non-Governmental Agencies,

Universities, Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Ground Water Board etc.

Various environmental components were monitored and samples analyzed.

The main purpose & objective of the study is:

To delineate the prevailing environmental condition of project/study area as per

TOR accorded by MoEF&CC for EIA study.

To understand the project need and environmental characteristics of the area.

To assess the existing environmental quality

To identify environmentally significant factors or sensitive geographical

locations.

To generate &/or collect the information of physical-chemical properties of the

environment of the project area, which includes data indicating quality &

prevailing status of air, water resources, soil fertility, noise, flora & fauna,

ecological habitats etc.

To study & generate/prepare the Land Use/Land Cover map, Topographic map,

Cartographic Map of 10 km radial area from the site.

To generate &/or collect details regarding climatic condition of project area.




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3.1 STUDY AREA

Study area covers 10 km radius from the project site located in Rammam Hydro

Electric Power Project (HEPP), Stage III (3x40 MW) in Darjeeling district of West

Bengal and West Sikkim District of Sikkim.

3.2 STUDY PERIOD

MoEF&CC issued Terms of Reference for the Rammam Hydro Power Project, Stage

III (3x40 MW) vide F.No. J-12011/11/2020-IA-I (R) dated 12th February, 2021 for

preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment with one season basline data for all

the environmental attributes. Environmental baseline monitoring was carried out

during July’ 2020 to September’ 2020 representing monsoon season and used to

identify potential significant impacts. Primary baseline data has been supplemented

with requisite secondary data wherever necessary.

3.3 METHODOLOGY OF EIA STUDY

A. Approach & Methodology of Baseline Study

The methodology for conducting the baseline environmental survey has been obtained

from the guidelines provided in the “Guidance Manual for Environmental Impact

Assessment and Clearance of River Valley Projects” issued by the Ministry of

Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).

B. Primary Data Collection: Monitoring Plan and Quality Assurance Procedures

The study period and methodology for primary data collection is followed as per the

approved ToR accorded by MoEF&CC. Summary of monitoring plan with sampling

testing methodology followed is summarised in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1

Summary of Methodology for Baseline Data Collection

S. No.

Environmental Attributes

No. of Locations/

Area

Duration and frequency of sampling and other remarks

1. Meteorology Data At one station Meteorology data was collected on an hourly basis for 3 months.

2. Ambient Air Quality 7 Twice a week for 24 hours; for 3 months




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S. No.

Environmental Attributes

No. of Locations/

Area

Duration and frequency of sampling and other remarks

3 Ambient Noise Levels 7 For 24 hours each in a month; for 1 season

4 Surface Water Quality 6 Once per a month

5 Groundwater Quality 6 Once per a month

6 Soil Quality 10 Once per a month

7 Ecology & Biodiversity Study area Once during the study period

8 Socio-economic Studies Study area Primary consultations were carried out in villages within 10 km radius during study period.

List of villages surveyed within 10 km radius is enclosed – Refer Social Baseline for details

3.4 MICRO-METEOROLOGICAL DATA

The study area falls under Humid Subtropical zone according to Koppen’s

classification of climate zones. Winter and early summer are long and dry; summer is

exceedingly hot leading to heat waves. The rainy season lasts from Juneto September.

Historical meteorological data were obtained from climatological tables pertaining to

Darjeeling (as the nearest representative IMD station) for the period 1981-2010 and is

summarised in Table 3.2.

Table 3.2

IMD Climatological data of Period 1981-2010

Month Temperature ºC Mean Relative

Humidity (%)

Rainfall

mm

Wind

speed

kmph

Predominant

wind

direction Maximum Minimum 8.30AM 05.30PM

January 10.7 1.5 78 81 13.5 1.7 SW, N

February 12.4 2.9 81 78 14.0 2.3 SW

March 15.6 5.7 76 75 30.8 3.1 SW

April 18.5 8.8 79 78 76.9 3.3 SW

May 19.3 10.6 89 88 137.9 3.0 SW

June 19.8 12.8 94 93 466 2.6 SW

July 19.6 13.4 96 94 656.7 2.2 SW

August 20.0 13.4 94 92 528.2 2.2 SW

September 19.8 12.4 93 90 379.7 2.0 SW




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October 19.5 10.5 84 84 59.1 1.7 SW

November 17.1 6.3 74 75 14.4 1.6 SW

December 14.0 3.8 75 74 2.9 1.5 SW, N

(Source-IMD Darjeeling)

3.4.1 Wind Speed and Direction

Wind speed is high and found mostly between 1.5 to 3.3 kmph for all the months. The

wind speed during summer recorded is high, and during rainy season, and winter

recorded low. The predominant wind direction is from Southwest (Fig 3.1).

3.4.2 Temperature:

December and January constitutes winter months with daily mean minimum

temperature around 1.5oC. With daily mean maximum temperature around 20.0oC.

August is the hottest month.

3.4.3 Rainfall

The distribution of rainfall in the region, which includes the study area, is regular.

Annual total rainfall in the region is 2380 mm. Over 80% of the total annual rainfall is

received during the monsoon period between June and September.

3.4.4 Site specific Met data

An automatic met station was established at Lodhama village, Darjeeling, West

Bengalto collect the site-specific data.The predominant wind direction was from

southwest direction. Clam conditions remain 11.44% of the time (Table 3.3).

Table 3.3

Site-specific meteorological data

Sl. No.

Parameters July.20 Aug.20 Sep.20

1 Temperature (0C)

Maximum 21.90 21.10 20.50

Minimum 17.10 16.30 15.70

Average 20.04 19.24 18.70

2 Relative Humidity (%)

Maximum 84.20 85.50 82.80

Minimum 55.40 56.70 56.00

Average 68.66 69.96 69.10

3 Wind Speed (m/s)

Maximum 3.80 4.36 4.83

Minimum 0.00 0.00 0.00




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Sl. No.

Parameters July.20 Aug.20 Sep.20

Average 0.69 0.81 0.86

4 Wind Direction (%)

E 1.61 2.15 1.25

ENE 0.67 1.75 1.67

ESE 0.94 1.48 1.67

N 1.88 0.81 1.81

NE 1.88 2.02 1.11

NNE 1.08 1.75 1.67

NNW 1.08 1.48 2.08

NW 2.02 1.88 1.25

S 8.20 0.40 3.06

SE 1.34 1.61 2.08

SSE 2.96 1.08 1.53

SSW 7.12 5.24 5.56

SW 3.23 9.14 9.03

W 1.34 3.09 3.61

WNW 1.48 1.88 1.39

WSW 1.48 8.06 5.56

CALM 61.69 56.18 55.69




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Fig 3.1 Wind rose for the period of July 2020 to Sep 2020




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3.5 AIR ENVIRONMENT

3.5.1 Selection of Sampling Locations: To assess the baseline ambient air quality a

scientifically designed ambient air quality monitoring network was established. Air

quality monitoring study was carried out during pre-monsoon season (i.e. July’20 to

Sep’20) within 10km radius of the project site. The ambient air quality monitoring

stations were selected after a brief study based on the following considerations

Meteorological conditions

Topography of the study area

Predominant wind direction

Emission sources

Receptors sensitivity

Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations were set up at seven locations with due

consideration to the above mentioned points. The locations of the sampling stations

are given in the Table 3.5 and the same are shown in the Fig 3.2.

3.5.2 Methodology of Sampling and Analysis

Air samples collected were tested for the following parameters

PM10

PM2.5

Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)

Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx)

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Ozone (O3)

Lead (Pb)

Ammonia (NH3)

Benzene (C6H6)

Benzo(a)Pyrene (BaP)

Arsenic (As)

Nickel (Ni),

Hydro Carbon HC (Methane and Non Methane)

Volatile Organic Compound (VOC)




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The sampling and analysis of ambient air quality parameters was carried out as per the

procedures detailed in relevant parts of IS: 5182 (Indian Standards for Ambient Air

Quality Test Methods). The methods used for determining the above mentioned

parameters and furnished hereunder in the Table 3.4.

Frequency of Sampling: 24 hourly samples for PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NOx were

collected from each station (Table 3.5), at a frequency of twice a week for the

monsoon season

Table 3.4

Techniques and detectable limits for Ambient Air Quality Monitoring

S. No. Parameter Technique Technical Protocol Minimum Detectable Limit

1 PM10 (µg/m3) Respirable Dust Sampler (Gravimetric method)

IS-5182 (Part-XXIII)

5.0 g/m3

2 PM2.5 (µg/m3) Fine Particulate Sampler (Gravimetric method)

IS-5182 (Part-XXIV)

2.0 g/m3

3 Sulphur dioxide SO2 (µg/m3)

Modified West and Gaeke

IS-5182 (Part-II) 4.0 g/m3

4 Oxides of Nitrogen NOx (µg/m3)

Jacob &Hochheiser IS-5182 (Part-VI) 4.0 g/m3

5 Carbon Monoxide (CO) mg/m3

Non Dispersible Infra-red Spectroscopy (NDIR)

IS:5182 (Part-X) 0.10 mg/m3

6 Ozone (O3) µg/m3 Chemical Method IS:5182 (Part-IX) 10 µg/m3

7 Lead (Pb) µg/m3 ICP after sampling on EPM 2000 or equivalent filter paper

IS:5182 (Part-XXII) 0.06 µg/m3

8 Ammonia (NH3) µg/m3

Indophenol blue method

IS:5182 (Part-XXV) 20 µg/m3

9 Benzene (C6H6) µg/m3

Gas Chromatography IS:5182 (Part-XI) 2.0 µg/m3

10 Benzo(a)Pyrene (BaP) ng/m3

Solvent extraction followed by GC

IS:5182 (Part-XII) 0.5 ng/m3

11 Arsenic (As) ng/m3 ICP after sampling on EPM 2000 or equivalent filter paper

CPCB guidelines 0.44 ng/m3

12 Nickel (Ni), ng/m3 ICP after sampling on EPM 2000 or equivalent filter paper

IS:5182 (Part-XXVI)

0.6 ng/m3




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13 Hydro Carbon (Methane and Non Methane)

Gas Chromatography IS-5182 (Part-XVII) 0.5 ppm

14 Volatile Organic Compound

GC Method EPA 21 PID 0.5 ppm

Table 3.5

Location of Ambient Air Quality monitoring stations

S. No Location Station

Code

Direction

Distance from

Project Site (km)

Latitude and

Longitude

Environmental

Setting

1 Project Site

A1 -- Near barrage site

27° 6'48.39"N,

88° 8'38.84"E

Industrial Area

2 Lodhoma

A2 SW

2.43 km from

adit-1

27° 6'12.77"N

88° 7'19.44"E

Residential Area

3 Tikpur

A3 NW

3.45 km from

barrage site

27° 8'5.76"N

88° 7'10.03"E

Residential Area

4 Salyangdang

A4 NE

1.03 km from

barrge site

27° 7'11.68"N

88° 9'4.16"E

Residential Area

5 Tharpu

A5 NE

2.90 km from

township

27° 8'37.74"N

88°11'26.02"E

Residential Area

6 Daramdin

A6 NE

3.63 km from

barrage site

27° 8'20.12"N

88° 9'59.85"E

Residential Area

7 Namla

A7 SW

4.39 km from

adit-1

27° 5'42.67"N

88° 6'17.01"E

Residential Area




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Fig 3.2 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Location Map




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Table 3.6 Summary of Ambient Air Quality Analysis

Mon

ito

rin

g L

oca

tion

s

No

of

Sam

ple

s

PM10(µg/m3) PM2.5(µg/m3) SO2(µg/m3) NOx(µg/m3) M

ax

Min

Mea

n

98

pe

rcen

tile

Max

Min

Mea

n

98

pe

rcen

tile

Max

Min

Mea

n

98

pe

rcen

tile

Max

Min

Mea

n

98

pe

rcen

tile

A1 26 54.5 42.3 48.8 54.2 28.1 15.3 21.6 27.6 10.6 8.4 9.5 10.5 11.9 9.3 10.6 11.8

A2 26 48.6 35.6 43.7 48.3 23.5 12.7 17.3 22.6 9.7 7.8 8.8 9.6 10.8 8.3 9.6 10.6

A3 26 52.5 39.6 47.1 52.2 27.3 15.5 20.4 26.2 10.7 8.4 9.6 10.6 12.0 9.3 10.6 11.9

A4 26 66.9 48.5 57.0 65.4 33.0 20.5 27.4 32.6 13.1 9.9 11.7 13.0 14.6 11.7 13.4 14.4

A5 26 55.9 43.7 50.5 55.7 29.8 16.2 22.7 29.1 11.1 8.8 9.9 11.0 12.4 9.7 11.2 12.3

A6 26 53.8 29.0 37.1 47.6 19.5 8.1 12.3 19.0 8.8 6.8 7.5 8.5 9.2 7.2 8.2 9.1

A7 26 63.8 47.7 55.3 62.6 32.4 19.8 26.1 32.1 12.6 9.7 11.3 12.5 13.9 11.0 12.8 13.8

NAAQ Standards

100(µg/m3) 60(µg/m3) 80(µg/m3) 80(µg/m3)




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Mon

itor

ing

Loc

atio

ns

No

of S

amp

les CO(mg/m3) O3(µg/m3)

Max

Min

Mea

n

98

per

cent

ile

Max

Min

Mea

n

98

per

cent

ile

A1 26 0.18 0.11 0.13 0.17 32.2 16.2 24.4 31.7

A2 26 0.15 0.10 0.11 0.14 30.2 14.2 22.2 29.7

A3 26 0.18 0.10 0.13 0.17 34.2 18.2 25.9 33.2

A4 26 0.30 0.15 0.22 0.29 44.2 26.2 34.7 43.2

A5 26 0.19 0.11 0.14 0.18 35.2 17.2 26.4 34.2

A6 26 0.14 0.10 0.11 0.13 23.2 9.2 16.5 22.7

A7 26 0.29 0.14 0.2 0.27 42.2 23.2 31.6 40.2

NAAQ Standards 4.0mg/m3 at 1hr 180µg/m3 at 1hr




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GRAPHICAL PRESENTATION OF AMBIENT AIR QUALITY IN THE STUDY AREA

54.248.3

52.2

65.4

55.747.6

62.6

100

0.0

20.0

40.0

60.0

80.0

100.0

120.0

A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 Standard

98 Percentile of PM10 (µg/m3)

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7

Standard

27.6

22.626.2

32.629.1

19.0

32.1

60

0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

50.0

60.0

70.0


PM2.5 (µg/m3)

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7

Standard




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10.5 9.6 10.6 13.0 11.0 8.512.5

80

0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

50.0

60.0

70.0

80.0

90.0


SO2 (µg/m3)

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7

Standard

11.8 10.6 11.914.4 12.3

9.113.8

80

0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

50.0

60.0

70.0

80.0

90.0


NOx (µg/m3)

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7

Standard




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0.17 0.14 0.17 0.29 0.18 0.130.27

4

0

0.5

1

1.5

2

2.5

3

3.5

4

4.5


CO (mg/m3)

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7

Standard

31.7 29.7 33.243.2

34.222.7

40.2

180.00

0.0

20.0

40.0

60.0

80.0

100.0

120.0

140.0

160.0

180.0

200.0


O3 (µg/m3)

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7

Standard




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3.5.3 Summary of Existing Ambient Air Quality

On the perusal of above summary of analysis of ambient air quality in the study area it

is evident that all monitored values in various locations are well within the specified

limits of NAAQS. The results are summarized below:

PM10: The highest PM10 concentration 66.9µg/m3 was observed in the ambient air

was recorded at station A4 while the lowest PM10 concentration was found to be

29.0µg/m3 at A6. All the monitored values of PM10 are well below the specified limit

of 100 µg/m3.

PM2.5: The highest PM2.5 concentration 33.0µg/m3 was observed in the ambient air

was recorded at station A4 while the lowest PM2.5 concentration was found to be

8.1µg/m3 at A6. All the monitored values of PM2.5 are well below the specified limit

of 60µg/m3.

SO2: The highest SO2 concentration 13.1µg/m3 was observed in the ambient air was

recorded at station A4 while the lowest SO2 concentration was found to be 6.8µg/m3

at A6. All the monitored values of SO2 are well below the specified limit of 80 µg/m3.

NOx: The highest NOx concentration 14.6µg/m3was observed in the ambient air was

recorded at station A4 while the lowest NOx concentration was found to be 7.2µg/m3

at A6. All the monitored values of NOx are well below the specified limit of 80µg/m3.

CO: The highest CO concentration 0.30mg/m3was observed in the ambient air was

recorded at station A4 while the lowest CO concentration was found to be

<0.10mg/m3 at A6. All the monitored values of CO are well below the specified limit

of 4.0mg/m3.

OZONE (O3): The highest O3 concentration 44.2µg/m3 was observed in the ambient

air was recorded at station A4 while the lowest O3 concentration was found to be

9.2µg/m3 at A6. All the monitored values of O3 are well below the specified limit of

180µg/m3.




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Ammonia (NH3, Lead (Pb), Benzene (C6H6), Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), Arsenic (As),

Nickel (Ni), HC (methane and non methane Hydro Carbon), Volatile Organic Carbon

(VOC) - are remained below detection limit (BDL) in the study area.

Fig 3.3: Ambient Air Quality Monitoring photograhs

3.6 WATER ENVIRONMENT

The water resources, both surface and groundwater play an important role in the

development of the area. Likewise, the water resources of the area have been studied

to establish the current status of water quality in the area. The parameters of prime

importance were selected under physical, chemical inorganic, chemical organic and

heavy metal groups. Water samples from ground and surface water sources were

collected. The water samples were collected in pretreated sampling cans and

transported to laboratory for analysis. Due care was taken during sampling &

transportation of these samples.




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3.6.1 Surface Water and Ground Water Quality Assessment

In order to assess water quality impacts surface water and ground water samples are

collected from the surrounding villages. The samples analyzed for various physical

and chemical parameters to know the contamination levels and compared as per the IS

Standards.

1. Ground water quality --- IS 10500-2012

2. Surface/canal/sea water quality --- IS 2296

3.6.2 Selection of sampling locations

Sampling locations (Table 3.9 & 3.10) were selected on basis of:

a) Drainage pattern

b) Location of residential areas respecting different activities

c) Likely areas those can represent baseline conditions

Samples for bacteriological analysis were collected in sterilized glass bottles. Selected

physico-chemical and bacteriological parameters have been analyzed for projecting

the existing water quality status in the study area. Water sampling locations are shown

in Fig 3.5.

The samples were analyzed in accordance with “Standard Methods for Examination

of Water and Wastewater Analysis” published by APHA.

3.6.3 Sampling techniques

Samples for chemical analysis were collected in polyethylene carboys. Samples

collected for metal content were acidified with 1 ml HNO3. Samples

forbacteriological analysis were collected in sterilized glass bottles. Selected physico-

chemical and bacteriological parameters have been analyzed for projecting the

existing water quality status in the study area. Parameters like temperature, Dissolved

Oxygen (DO) and pH were analyzed at the time of sample collection.

The methodology for sample collection and preservation techniques was followed as

per the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) mentioned in Table 3.7.




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Table 3.7

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for water sampling

Parameter Sample Collection Sample Size Storage/ Preservation

pH Grab sampling

Plastic /glass container

50 ml On site analysis

Electrical

Conductivity

Grab sampling


50 ml On site parameter

Total suspended

solids

Grab sampling


100 ml Refrigeration,

can be stored for 7 days

Total Dissolved

Solids

Grab sampling


100 ml Refrigeration,

can be stored for 7 days

BOD Grab sampling


500 ml Refrigeration, 48 hrs

Hardness Grab sampling


100 ml Add HNO3 to pH<2,

refrigeration; 6 months

Chlorides Grab sampling


50 ml Not required; 28 days

Sulphates Grab sampling


100 ml Refrigeration; 28 days

Nitrates Plastic containers 100 ml Refrigeration; 48 hrs

Fluorides Plastic containers only 100 ml Not required; 28 days

Alkalinity Plastic/ glass containers 100 ml Refrigeration; 14 days

Ammonia Plastic/ glass containers 100 ml Add H2SO4 to pH>2,

refrigeration, 28 days

Heavy Metals (As,

Cd, Mn, Cu, Fe,

Zn, Pb etc.)

Plastic/ Glass rinse with

1+1 HNO3

500 ml Filter, add HNO3 to pH>2;

Grab sample; 6 months

Analytical Techniques

The analytical techniques used for water analysis is given in the Table 3.8.

Table 3.8

Analytical techniques for water analysis

Parameter Method

pH APHA-4500-H+

Colour APHA-2120 C

Odour IS: 3025, Part-4

Temperature APHA-2550 B

Dissolved Oxygen APHA-4500 O

BOD APHA-5210 B




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Parameter Method

Electrical conductivity APHA-2510 B

Turbidity APHA-2130 B

Chlorides APHA-4500 Cl-

Fluorides APHA-4500 F-

Total dissolved solids APHA-2540 C

Total suspended solids APHA-2540 D

Total hardness APHA-2340 C

Sulphates APHA-4500 SO4-2

Arsenic APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3114 B/ APHA-3500 As

Calcium APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Ca

Magnesium APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Mg

Sodium APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Na

Potassium APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 K

Manganese APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Mn

Mercury APHA-3112 B/ APHA-3500 Hg

Lead APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Pb

Copper APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Cu

Cadmium APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Cd

Iron APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Fe

Zinc APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Zn

Boron APHA-4500 B

Coliform organisms APHA-9215 D

Alkalinity APHA-2320 B

COD APHA-5220 D

Phenolic Compounds APHA-510 C

Nitrates APHA 22nd Edition -4500- NO3- B

Residual Chlorine IS : 3025 Part 32-1988 (Reaff: 2014)

Total kjeldal Nitrogen APHA 22nd Edition -4500- NH3 B&C

Dissolved phosphates IS : 3025 Part 31-1988 (Reaff:2014)

Hexavalent Chromium Cr+6 APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Cr+6

Aluminum APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Al

Ionic Detergents IS : 3025 Part 23- 1986 (Reaff:2012)

Barium APHA-3120 B/ APHA-3500 Ba

SAR Calculation

Free Ammonia APHA 22nd Edition -4500- NH3 B&C

Salinity APHA 22nd Edition -2520 B

Source: Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, Published By APHA,

AWWA, WEF 23rd Edition, 2017




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3.6.4 Water Sampling Stations

Table 3.9

Ground water sampling locations

Code Station Direction Distance in km Latitude & Longitude

Source of collection

GW1 Namla

SW 4.26 km from

barrage site

27° 5'51.97"N

88° 6'17.02"E Tube well

GW2 Lodhoma

SW 2.2 km from

barrage site

27° 6'13.69"N

88° 7'28.41"E Tube well

GW3 Kankiabong

SE 1.87 km from

adit-1

27° 5'52.50"N

88° 9'8.14"E Bore well

GW4 Salyandang

NE 0.97 km from

barrage site

27° 7'14.45"N

88° 8'56.70"E Bore well

GW5 Daramdin

NE 3.4 from from

barrage site

27° 8'8.63"N

88°10'2.12"E Tube well

GW6 Rammam sub

station NE

0.66 km from

barrage site

27° 7'6.93"N

88° 8'48.13"E

Bore well

Table 3.10

Surface water sampling locations

Code Station Direction Distance in km Latitude & Longitude

Source of collection

SW1

(Upstream) Tikpur NW

1.93 km from

barrage site

27° 7'17.01"N

88° 7'37.14"E

River

SW2(Down

stream Longchok NE

2.04 km from

adit-1

27° 7'0.17"N

88° 9'51.70"E

River

SW3 Daramdin Bazar

NE 4.15 km from

barrage site

27° 8'32.29"N

88°10'13.05"E

Surface Water

SW4 Bansbotay Bazar

SW 5.78 from adit-1 27° 5'2.10"N

88° 5'45.16"E

Surface Water

SW5 Lodhoma

SW 2.27 km from

barrage site

27° 6'17.28"N

88° 7'23.47"E

Surface Water

SW6 NTPC Township

NE Near township 27° 7'49.22"N

88°13'3.00"E River




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Fig 3.4 Groundwater sampling location map




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Fig 3.5 Surface water sampling location map




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Fig 3.6 Water sampling photographs




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Table 3.11

Ground water quality of the study area S.No. PARAMETER UNIT GW1 GW2 GW3 GW4 GW5 GW6 IS:10500-Standards

Acceptable Permissible

1. pH - 6.1 6.4 5.8 6.7 6.1 6.6 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5

2. Temperature of Water 0C 21.7 23.4 21.9 22.6 23.4 22.9 - - 3. Turbidity NTU 0.31 0.39 0.30 0.36 0.42 0.25 1 5 4. Electrical conductivity mmhos/cm 188 255 174 218 209 148 - - 5. Total Dissolved Solids mg/l 101 113 89 104 112 89 500 2000 6. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 38 44 36 33 48 37 300 600 7. Total alkalinity (as CaCO3) mg/l 42 59 41 54 51 48 200 600 8. Chlorides as Cl mg/l 19.2 21.6 20.4 21.8 24.6 17.5 250 1000 9. Sulphates as SO4 mg/l 21 29 14 20 37 14 200 400

10. Nitrates as NO3 mg/l 1.7 2.6 1.7 2.1 2.6 1.2 45 45 11. Residual Chlorine mg/l <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 - - 12. Fluoride as F mg/l 0.31 0.43 0.27 0.46 0.59 0.33 1 1.5 13. Sodium as Na mg/l 7.7 9.2 6.4 8.6 8.1 4.7 - - 14. Potassium as K mg/l 1.4 2.1 1.1 1.6 2.2 1.0 - - 15. Salinity PSU <2 <2 <2 <2 <2 <2 <2 <2 16. Total kjheldal Nitrogen mg/l < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0 - - 17. Dissolved phosphates mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 - - 18. Dissolved Oxygen mg/l 3.3 3.8 3.5 2.9 3.7 4.1 - - 19. Phenolic Compounds as

C6H5OH mg/l

<0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.001 0.002

20. Arsenic as As mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.01 0.05 21. Cadmium as Cd mg/l <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 0.003 0.003 22. Mercury as Hg mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - - 23. Nickel as Ni mg/l <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 - - 24. Manganese as Mn mg/l <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 0.1 0.3 25. Hexavalent Chromium as Cr6+ mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.01 0.01 26 Lead as Pb mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.01 0.01 27 Iron as Fe mg/l 1.28 1.46 1.25 1.48 1.65 1.1 0.3 0.3




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28 Copper as Cu mg/l <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 0.05 1.5 29 Zinc as Zn mg/l 0.11 0.22 0.10 0.14 0.24 0.10 5 15 30 Total Coliforms MPN/100

ml 28 44 31 26 44 20

Not Detectable

Not Detectable

31 Faecal Coliforms MPN/100 ml

Not Detectable

Not Detectable

Not Detectable

Not Detectable

Not Detectable

Not Detectable

Not Detectable

Not Detectable

32 Aluminium (asAl) mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - - 33 Ionic Detergents mg/l <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 - - 34 Barium as Ba mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - - 35 Calcium as Ca mg/l 6.4 8.2 7.1 6.9 9.5 8.1 75 200 36 chloraminine as Cl2 mg/l <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 - - 37 Magnesium as Mg mg/l 3.9 4.8 4.1 4.4 5.2 3.1 30 100 38 Mineral oil mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 - - 39 Selenium mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - - 40 Cyanide as Cn mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - - 41 Molybdenum as Mo mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - - 42 Pesticides µg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 - - 43 Polychlorinated biphenyles ng/l <10ng/l <10ng/l <10ng/l <10ng/l <10ng/l <10ng/l - - 44 PAH ppb <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 - - 45 Trialomethanes mg/l <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 - - 46 SAR milli eq/l 0.54 0.61 0.59 0.62 0.61 0.52 - - 47 Free ammonia mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 - -




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Table 3.12

Surface water quality of the study area S. No PARAMETER UNIT SW1 SW2 SW3 SW4 SW5 SW6 IS:2296 –

Standards 1. Color Hazen <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 <1 2. Odour - Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable Agreeable - 3. Taste - Taste less Taste less Taste less Taste less Taste less Taste less - 4. pH - 6.8 6.8 7.0 6.9 7.1 7.2 6.50 – 8.50 5. Temperature of Water 0C 22.8 21.9 23.3 24.1 23.4 23.9 - 6. Turbidity NTU 2.2 2.6 2.8 1.9 2.7 2.4 - 7. Electrical conductivity mmhos/c

m 138 144 149 121 141 126

-

8. Total Dissolved Solids mg/l 79 84 77 86 74 71 1500 9. Total Hardness (as CaCO3) mg/l 24 26 29 31 36 26 - 10. Total alkalinity (as CaCO3) mg/l 39 43 46 40 45 39 - 11. Chlorides as Cl mg/l 7.7 7.9 8.1 7.2 7.7 8.2 600 12. Sulphates as SO4 mg/l 1.1 1.3 1.6 1.0 1.4 1.2 400 13. Nitrates as NO3 mg/l 0.16 0.18 0.28 0.14 0.24 0.31 50 14. Residual Chlorine mg/l ND ND ND ND ND ND - 15. Fluoride as F mg/l 0.31 0.32 0.34 0.28 0.33 0.29 1.5 16. Sodium as Na mg/l 3.1 3.6 4.1 2.9 3.3 3.8 - 17. Potassium as K mg/l 4.4 4.8 5.6 4.7 5.9 5.5 - 18. Salinity PSU 2.1 1.8 1.1 1.6 1.2 1.4 - 19. Total kjheldal Nitrogen mg/l <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 - 20. Dissolved phosphates mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - 21. Dissolved Oxygen mg/l 5.2 5.8 5.6 5.1 5.8 6.1 5.0 min

22. Biochemical Oxygen Demand mg/l 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.0 1.2 1.3 3 23. Chemical Oxygen Demand mg/l 2.9 3.1 3.3 3.1 2.8 3.2 - 24. Phenolic Compounds as

C6H5OH mg/l

<0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.005

25. Arsenic as As mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - 26. Cadmium as Cd mg/l <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 - 27. Mercury as Hg mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 -




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28. Nickel as Ni mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - 29. Manganese as Mn mg/l <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 - 30. Hexavalent Chromium as Cr6+ mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.05 31. Lead as Pb mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - 32. Iron as Fe mg/l 0.26 0.31 0.38 0.21 0.33 0.25 - 33. Copper as Cu mg/l 1.0 1.1 1.37 1.0 1.28 1.34 1.5 34. Zinc as Zn mg/l < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0 15 35. Total Coliforms MPN/100

ml 460 480 490 440 470 460 5000 36 Faecal Coliforms MPN/100

ml <2 <2 <2 <2 <2 <2

Not specified

37 Aluminium (asAl) mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 - 38 anIonic Detergents mg/l <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 - 39 Barium as Ba mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - 40 Calcium as Ca mg/l 4.9 5.1 5.8 4.9 5.6 5.2 - 41 chloraminine as Cl2 mg/l <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 - 42 Magnesium as Mg mg/l 4.6 4.9 4.7 4.1 3.9 4.3 - 43 Mineral oil mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 - 44 Selenium mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - 45 Cyanide as Cn mg/l <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 - 46 Molybdenum as Mo mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 - 47 Pesticides µg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 - 48 SAR milli eq/l 0.22 0.25 0.29 0.21 0.23 0.26 -




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3.6.5 Surface water quality results (Table 3.12) are summarized below:

pH of the surface water collected was slightly acidic in nature with pH ranging

from 6.8 – 7.2

TDS was found to be 71 mg/l to 86 mg/l. The tolerance limit of 1,500 mg/l as per

IS:2296

Total hardness was found to be 24 mg/l to 36 mg/l

Presence of Nitrate was recorded as 0.14 mg/l to 0.31 mg /l

DO was observed as 5.1 mg/l to 6.1 mg /l

Total coliform in water was 440MPN/100 ml to 480MPN/100 ml. The likely

source of bacteriological contamination was due to the proximity to residential

area

All the heavy metals were found to be within below detectable limits.

3.6.6 Groundwater quality results (Table 3.11) are summarised below:

During the study period, the pH of the groundwater was found varying between

5.8 and 6.6 and found to be slight acidic due to high iron content in the water. The

best way to treat this is to use aeration/ filtration or chlorination techniques. The

TDS of all the samples were within the permissible limit of 2000 mg/l.

The Chloride levels in the groundwater samples collected in the study area were

ranging from 19.2-24.6 mg/l.

In the groundwater samples collected from the study area, the hardness was found

to be varying from 33 mg/l to 48 mg/l.

In the groundwater samples of study area the fluoride values were found to be

within a range of 0.31 mg/l to 0.59 mg/l.

Total coliforms were present in the GW results due to human sewage or animal

droppings which could contain other bacteria, viruses, or disease causing

organisms.

All the heavy metals in all samples were found to be below the permissible limits

except Iron (Fe).




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3.7 SOIL ENVIRONMENT

3.7.1 Selection of sampling locations

For studying soil profile of the region, sampling locations were selected to assess the

existing overall soil conditions around the project site. The study of the soil profile

establishes the baseline characteristics and this will help in future for identifying the

incremental concentrations if any, due to the project. The sampling locations have

been identified with following objectives.

a) To determine the baseline soil characteristics of the study area

b) To determine the impact of the project activities on soil characteristics

3.7.2 Sampling and analytical techniques

Ten sampling locations were selected to assess the existing soil conditions

representing various land use conditions and geological features. At each location,

soil samples were collected from three different depths viz. 30 cm, 60 cm and 90 cm

below the surface and are homogenized. This is in line with IS: 2720 & Methods of

Soil Analysis, Part-1, 2nd edition, 1986 of (American Society for Agronomy and Soil

Science Society of America). The homogenized samples were analyzed for physical

and chemical characteristics. The soil samples were collected at different locations

(Table 3.14).The samples have been analyzed as per the established scientific

methods for physico-chemical parameters. Soil sampling locations are shown in

Figure 3.7. The methodology adopted for each parameter is described in Table 3.13.

Table 3.13

Analytical techniques for Soil analysis

Parameter Method (ASTM number)

Textural classification Chart developed by Public Roads

Administration

pH pH meter (D 1293-84)

Electrical conductivity Conductivity meter (D 1125-82)

Nitrogen Kjeldahl distillation (D 3590-84)

Phosphorus Molybdenum blue, calorimetric (D 515-82)

Potassium Flame photometric (D 1428-82)

Sodium Flame photometric (D 1428-82)

Calcium IS:2720

Magnesium IS:2720

Chlorides Argentometric (D 512-81 Rev 85)




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Table 3.14

Details of soil sampling locations

Code Location/Villages Direction Distance (km) Latitude and

Longitude

S1 Near Project site -- Barrage site 27° 6'48.29"N

88° 8'38.50"E

S2 Lodhoma SW 2.15 km from

adit-1

27° 6'13.53"N

88° 7'30.69"E

S3 Bansbotay Bazar SW 5.83 km from

barrage site

27° 5'3.44"N

88° 5'41.65"E

S4 Namla SW 3.98 km from

barrage site

27° 5'54.51"N

88° 6'26.93"E

S5 Longchok NE 0.92 km from

barrage site

27° 7'4.71"N

88° 9'5.90"E

S6 Daramdin NE 3.77 km from

barrage site

27° 8'16.53"N

88°10'12.57"E

S7 NTPC Township NE Near township 27° 7'49.35"N

88°12'58.87"E

S8 Sombaria N 2.9 km from

barrage site

27° 8'20.61"N

88° 8'49.20"E

S9 Tikpur NW 1.8 km from

barrage site

27° 7'22.33"N

88° 7'46.99"E

S10 Karthok NE 5.82 km from

barrage site

27° 9'24.56"N

88°10'35.92"E

Fig 3.7 Soil Sample Collection




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Fig 3.8 Soil sampling location map




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Table 3.15

Soil Analysis Results in the Study Area S.No Parameter Unit S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10

1 pH (1:5) Aq Extract -- 5.8 5.5 5.4 5.7 5.9 6.1 5.8 5.5 5.4 5.6 2 Conductivity

(1:5 Aq Extract) mhos

/cm 59.1 62.3 55.4 49.3 56.5 52.4 58.2 61.5 52.3 62.9 3 Texture

(a) Sand 17.1 18.2 18.4 18.6 19.4 17.5 18.2 19.6 19.5 19.1

(b) Silt % 34.8 37.3 36.5 37.5 36.4 38.2 37.6 36.5 38.2 38.4

(c) Clay 48.1 44.5 45.1 43.9 44.2 44.3 44.2 43.9 42.3 42.5

4 Bulk Density gm/cm3 2.1 2.0 1.6 1.9 2.2 1.8 2.1 2.4 1.8 2.0

5 Moisture Content % 24.5 24.8 21.4 17.8 23.1 19.6 25.1 25.4 16.5 21.6 6 Availabe Nitrogen as N kg/ha 272 281 265 242 261 249 283 291 224 257 7 Availabe Phosphorous as P kg/ha 3.1 3.2 2.8 2.6 2.9 2.7 3.3 3.4 2.3 3.1 8 Available Potassium as K kg/ha 20.2 21.5 16.5 15.1 18.5 16.3 21.2 22.5 12.4 21.4 9 Exchangeable Sodium as Na mg/kg 101 105 94 79 96 88 101 116 78 86

10 Exchangeable Calcium as Ca mg/kg 774 785 758 736 765 748 731 765 705 786 11 Exchangeable Magnesium as Mg mg/kg 198 186 182 161 188 165 214 219 142 188 12 Water Soluble Chlorides as Cl mg/kg 61 68 55 42 65 49 77 73 71 65 13 Water Soluble Sulphates as SO4 mg/kg 265 278 255 239 255 240 274 286 216 258 14 Organic matter % 0.83 0.82 0.65 0.51 0.77 0.55 0.94 0.92 0.46 0.74 15 Organic Carbon % 0.48 0.56 0.38 0.27 0.44 0.29 0.65 0.82 0.26 0.53 16 Porosity % 29 26 31 36 22 25 18 33 25 22 17 Infiltration capacity mm/hr 11 9 11 14 6 10 7 11 10 9 18 Arsenic as As mg/kg 0.04 0.03 0.05 0.05 0.03 0.06 0.06 0.04 0.07 0.04

19 Cadmium as Cd mg/kg <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

20 Mercury as Hg mg/kg <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

21 Nickel as Ni mg/kg <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

22 Manganese as Mn mg/kg 0.06 0.05 0.07 0.09 0.06 0.04 0.06 0.10 0.06 0.05




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23 Hexavalent Chromium as Cr+6 mg/kg <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

24 Lead as Pb mg/kg <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01

25 Iron as Fe mg/kg 0.78 0.70 0.58 0.64 0.52 0.62 0.60 0.58 0.54 0.58

26 Copper as Cu mg/kg 0.07 0.05 0.04 0.07 0.04 0.06 0.05 0.08 0.07 0.09

27 Zinc as Zn mg/kg 3.9 3.6 4.1 3.9 3.4 4.1 3.6 3.2 3.9 4.1

28 SAR m.eq/100g 4.5 5.9 7.4 4.9 2.6 5.2 4.8 4.6 5.4 5.1 29 Permeability cm/hr 1.1 1.0 1.6 1.1 1.5 1.4 1.0 1.4 1.5 1.1 30 Water holding capacity % 25 28 22 26 31 22 25 22 21 26 31 Metals: Sb mg/kg <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 32 Ba mg/kg <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 33 Cr+3 mg/kg 5.8 5.2 5.8 5.1 5.4 5.9 5.6 5.4 5.1 5.6 34 Co mg/kg <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 35 Mo mg/kg <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 36 Cyanide mg/kg <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 37 Thiocyanide mg/kg <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1

*Note: Detection Limits for Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, Cr+6 are 0.01mg/kg; for Sb, Ba, Cr+3, Co, Mo is 0.02mg/kg and for Cyanide and thiocyanide is 0.1mg/kg




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3.7.3 Summary of Soil Analysis Data

The analytical results of the soil samples are summarized below.

The pH of the soil is an important property; the normal range of pH in the soil is 6.0

to 8.5. The pH values in the study area are varying from 5.4 to 6.1 indicating that the

soils are falling in acidic soil.

Based on the electrical conductivity, the soils are classified into four groups (Normal,

Critical for germination, Critical for growth of the sensitive crops, Injurious to most

crops). The electrical conductivity in the study area is varying from 52.3 to 62.9

micro-mhos/ cm (µmhos/cm). This is average for germination.

The other important parameters for characterization of soil for irrigation are the

primary nutrients – Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium (N, P, K) and the secondary

nutrients-Calcium, Magnesium and Sulphur (Ca, Mg, S). The primary and secondary

nutrient elements are known as major elements. This classification is based on their

relative abundance, and not on their relative importance.

Nitrogen encourages the vegetative development of plants by imparting a healthy

green color to the leaves. The available Nitrogen as N in the study area is varying

from 224 to 281 kg/ha. This is less for crops when compared with soil standards.

Phosphorus influences the vigour of plants and improves the quality of crops. In the

study area available, Phosphorus was found in varying quantities of 2.3 to 3.4kg/ha.

This is less sufficient level when compared to soil standards.

Potassium enhances the ability of the plants to resist diseases, insect attacks, cold and

other adverse conditions. The available potassium in the study area varies between

12.4 to 22.5 kg/ha. This is very less sufficient level for crops.

Organic Carbon in the study area ranges from 0.0.26 to 0.82%. This is very less level

for crops.

Based on the above results, the soils in the region are average fertile enough for

cultivation of crops.




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Table 3.16

Standard soil classification

S. No Soil Test Classification 1. pH <4.5 Extremely acidic

4.51- 5.50 Very strongly acidic 5.51-6.00 moderately acidic 6.01-6.50 slightly acidic 6.51-7.30 Neutral 7.31-7.80 slightly alkaline 7.81-8.50 moderately alkaline 8.51-9.0 strongly alkaline >9.00 very strongly alkaline

2. Electrical Conductivity (ppm) (1ppm = 640 µmhos)

Up to 1.00 Average 1.01-2.00 harmful to germination 2.01-3.00 harmful to crops (sensitive to salts)

3. Organic Carbon Up to 0.2: very less 0.21-0.4: less 0.41-0.5 medium, 0.51-0.8: on an average sufficient 0.81-1.00: sufficient >1.0 more than sufficient

4. Nitrogen (Kg/ha) Up to 50 very less 51-100 less 101-150 good 151-300 Better >300 sufficient

5. Phosphorus (Kg/ha) Up to 15 very less 16-30 less 31-50 medium 51-65 on an average sufficient 66-80 sufficient >80 more than sufficient

6. Potassium (Kg/ha) 0 -120 very less 120-180 less 181-240 medium 241-300 average 301-360 better >360 more than sufficient




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3.8 NOISE ENVIRONMENT

3.8.1 Identification of sampling locations

Noise at different generating sources (Table 3.17) was identified based on the

activities in the village area, ambient noise due to construction activities, traffic and

the noise at sensitive areas. A detailed survey on noise environment was carried in

and around the project site to study the levels of noise, as the high dB (A) levels may

cause adverse effect on human beings and associated environment, including

structures, domestic animals and natural ecological systems. The locations were

identified keeping in view the land use pattern and environmental setting.Spot noise

levels were measured using a precision noise level meter at seven locations within

study zone. Noise sampling locations are shown in Figure 3.9.

3.8.2 Methodology

The monitoring was carried out at seven locations for a period of 24hrs, once during

the study period. The day levels of noise have been monitored during 6 am to 10 pm

and the night levels during 10 pm to 6 am. The Ld, Ln and Ldn were calculated based

on the hourly Leq values. Spot noise levels were measured using a precision noise

level meter at residential areas, industrial areas and commercial centres etc., in all

seven locations which were covered with in study zone. The noise levels include

vehicular movement and local activities.

Table 3.17

Noise Monitoring Locations

S.No Location Station Code

Direction Distance in

km Latitude and

Longitude Environmental

Setting

1 Project Site N1 -- Near barrage

site 27° 6'48.39"N,

88° 8'38.84"E Industrial Area

2 Lodhoma N2 SW 2.43 km

from adit-1 27° 6'12.77"N

88° 7'19.44"E Residential

Area

3 Tikpur N3 NW 3.45 km

barrage site 27° 8'5.76"N


Area

4 Salyangdang N4 NE 1.03 km

barrge site 27° 7'11.68"N


Area




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5 Tharpu N5 NE

2.90 km

from

township

27° 8'37.74"N

88°11'26.02"E Residential

Area

6 Daramdin N6 NE 3.63 km

barrage site 27° 8'20.12"N


Area

7 Namla N7 SW 4.39 km

adit-1 27° 5'42.67"N


Area

3.8.3 Description of Locations:

N1 to N7 – the locations have been selected to assess noise levels near to the project

in residential areas with light Vehicular Movement.

3.8.3.1 Noise Levels in the Study Area

The noise level monitored during the study period are given in following Table 3.18

in the form of Lday, Lnight and Ldn compared with CPCB Standards.

Table 3.18

Noise levels in the study area

Location

Code

Environmental

Setting

CPCB norms Leq (dBA) Leq day

dB(A)

Leq night

dB(A) Day Night

N1 Industrial 75 70 62.5 51.9

N2 Residential 55 45 51.6 42.6









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Fig 3.9 Ambient Noise Monitoring Location map




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Fig 3.10 Ambient Noise Monitoring Stations




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Graphical representation of Noise

0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

50.0

60.0

70.0

80.0

Equivalent Noise Day Time Leq dB(A)

0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

50.0

60.0

70.0

80.0

Equivalent Noise Night Time Leq dB(A)




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Results and discussions

Ambient noise equivalent levels were measured at seven locations in and around the

project site. Noise equivalent levels varied from 50.8 to 62.5 Leq dB(A) during day time

and 42.6 to 55.6 Leq dB(A) during night time.

The noise levels at N1 were observed to be high as it is close to the construction

operations at the project site.

An overview of the above results indicate the noise levels in the study area are well

within the prescribed limits of CPCB.

3.9 TRAFFIC STUDY

The baseline traffic studies in the EIA Project study area were carried to assess the traffic

flow. The traffic survey is essential to realistically and accurately assess the prevailing

traffic volumes and travel characteristics by undertaking classified volume count. The

objective of traffic volume count survey is to assess the traffic intensity on the most

vulnerable section of the road. Traffic density was recorded at approach roads to the

powerhouse and barrage site and in the surrounding areas of the project site for 24 hours.

In order to record the traffic density the vehicles plying on the roads were divided into

heavy and light vehicles, three wheelers and two wheelers. Table 3.19 shows the traffic

monitoring sites.

Table 3.19

Traffic density monitoring locations

S.No. Location Latitude Longitude

1. Jorethang-Soreng Road 27° 7'50.39"N 88°16'19.25"E

2. Jorethang-Sombaria Road 27° 8'5.78"N 88° 9'5.38"E

The analysis of traffic counts provides an estimate of average daily traffic (ADT). In

order to convert recorded vehicles into a common scale, the passenger car units (PCU)

equivalent factor as per IRC:64-1990 has been adopted. Table 3.16 shows the details of

traffic density and PCU/day.




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Table 3.20

Traffic volume counts

Types of Vehicles T1 T2 No. of

vehicles/day PCU/day No. of

vehicles/day PCU/day

Two wheelers 56 28 31 15.5 Three wheelers 12 6 9 4.5 Cars/Van/Jeep 128 128 96 96 Trucks 83 249 66 198 Mini-Bus 23 34.5 15 22.5 Total 302 445.5 217 336.5

(PCU Factor – Light duty vehicles – 1.0, 2/3 wheelers – 0.5, Mini bus – 1.5, Trucks/Buses – 3.0)

Observation

During monsoon collection, mainly four wheelers/cars/jeeps were observed to be more

than the trucks or heavy vehicles. It is because tourists from all over India transport in the

region. Highest traffic volume was recorded on Jorthang-Soreng road. The road widths in

the region vary from 6-10 m as it is a hilly terrain. Most of the roads are blacktop, there

would not be much of dust emission. Considering the design service volume of 5200

PCU/day for hilly terrain road, the existing traffic volume at the point of traffic count is

found to be level of service (LOS) is “A”.

3.10 GEOLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY

The Himalayan belt of northern India run in a general east-west direction for a length of

2400 km over a width which varies from 230 to 320 km. The chain is a part of Alpine

Meso-cenzoic seismic belt. Major crustal deformations, thrust movements, intrusive

action, volcanic activities and metamorphism occurred mainly between pre-tertiary and

late eras.

The three important groups of rocks observed in the vicinity of the project area are:

Older Daling group represented by Garubathan formation comprising of quartz-

chlorite-sesicite phyllite/schists with occasional quartz vein and the Rayang formation

comprising greywork type of slaty quartzite.




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The tectonic window in the Rangit River valley restricted to the north of the Great

Rangit River and known as Rangit window is the most important geological structure

of the area. The younger Gondwana group is observed and is represented by pebbly

phyllite, shale, carbonaceous shale, with occasional thin coal band and sandstone of

Danuda formation. The older Daling/Buxa group of rocks are exposed as a result of

prolonged weathering. The youner Gondwana group of rocks, encircles the older

Daling/Buxa group of rocks.

Within the window zone, along either bank of River Rangit, extensive occurrences of

dolomitic rocks of Buxa group are observed. These then meet in the sub-surface with

tectonic slices within the flaggy quartzite in Gok area.

3.10.1 Geological setting

Diversion Structure

The intake structure is located on a straight course of River Rammam having steep rocky

cliff on the right bank upto a height of 100 m and a wide shoal deposit and terrace resting

over slumped disjointed rock mass on the left bank. The rock exposed on either side is

quartz-muscovite-biotite gneiss.

The rocks exposed at the barrage/dam site on the hill slope are garnetiferous quartz

biotite muscovite gneiss with quartz veins and lenses.

Desilting Chamber

The desilting chamber is proposed underground in the right side hill of River Rammam

near Lodhama confluence. The rocks exposed in this area are garnetiferrous quartz biotite

muscovite gneiss.

Head Race Tunnel

The tunnel alignment passes through different geological conditions. The alignment

passes below Jhepi Khola. The rock type exposed on left bank of Jhepi Khola towards

downstream below the ground elevation of 900 m is quartz-biotite gneiss. On the right




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bank chlorite mica schist with some band of mica schist generally strike N 30o to 60o W –

S 30o to 60o E with dip of 20o to 60o towards SSW.

Surge shaft

The major rock type observed at the surge shaft is massive bedded quartzite with phyllitic

intercalation, striking NNW-SSE dipping hillward at an angle of 35o.

Penstock

The area around the underground pressure shaft portion from the surge shaft is mostly

occupied by surfacial soil and overburden with sporadic rock outcrops of flaggy sericite

quartzite interbanded with phyllite and chlorite-sercite schist.

Power house

The power house is proposed as deep seated surface type structure near the confluence of

Rammam and Ramsu Khola confluence on a rocky lodge, comprising chlorite schist

intercalated with quartzite or vein quartz, striking along the slope and dipping upstream

side at a steep angle. At this location, width of River Rammam is nearly 150-200 m wide.

The banks are stable and firm with rocky ledges.

Tail Race Channel

In the initial stage, the tail race is expected to have a rocky foundation, after which it

shall be laid within riverine boulders and sand.




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Fig 3.11 Geomorphology map




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Fig 3.12 Lineament map




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3.10.2 Minerals

No major occurrence of economic deposit has been found in the study area, except

materials likeboulder, pebbles, sand that bears no economic mineral importance, being

utilized as construction material. The mineral map of Sikkim and West Bengal Parts of

the study area are shown in Fig 3.13(a) and (b) respectively.

It is evident from the maps that the project and study area are located in the areas devoid

of any minerals of economic importance.

Fig 3.13(a) Mineral map of Sikkim Part of Study Area




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Fig 3.13(b) Mineral map of West Bengal Part of Study Area




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3.10.3 Hydrogeological setting

The study area is divided into two parts:

North of Rammam River part of West Sikkim district of State Sikkim and

South of Rammam River which is a part of Darjeeling district of West Bengal

Hydrogeological setting on the northern part of Rammam River in study area

Physiographically the area is represented by moderate to steeply sloping hills, cliffs and

valleys. The rugged and hilly topography of the area does not favour the construction of

large scale multipurpose irrigation scheme. Irrigation practice is very limited due to soil

erosion issues. Rainwater and spring fed cultivation is predominant.

Geologically the area comprise of Buxa formation comprising of dolomite, phyllite and

quartzite,Darjeeling formation comprise of migmatite gneiss, calc-silicate lenses,

Kanchanjunga formation is represented by augen gneiss, quartzite, amphibolites,

migmatitic gneiss rocks,Chungthang formation comprise of quartz-biotite gneiss, calc-

silicate, marble, quartzite, kyanite and granite schists and Quatenary deposits of alluvium

with assorted gravel and fragments of gravels, pebbles, boulders and terrace covers are

developed sporadically along the streams and rivers.

The major water bearing formations are Darjeeling, Daling and Gondwana groups where

ground water occurs in weathered zones, joints and fractures.

Since the area is characterised by hilly terrain - it acts as a recharge area where surface

runoff is very high, has limited infiltration in the intermountain valleys. Ground water is

harnessed using perennial springs and jhoras. The discharge of most of the springs ranges

from 1 to 50 lpm during lean period and a few jhorasi kholas give discharge in the range

of 50 to 500 lpm.

Ground water occurs in largely disconnected localised along weathered zones, joints and

fracture zones. As such till date no ground water abstraction structures like wells are

present.




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Hydrogeological setting on the southern part of Rammam River in study area

Because of heavy rainfall and high infiltration through highly permeable formations the

Bhabar and Terai formations have developed promising ground water regime.

Hydrogeologically the area can be broadly divided into consolidated formation

represented by Buxa group of metamorphic rocks semi consolidated formation

comprising of Gondwana and Siwalik sedimentary formations unconsolidated formation

consisting of piedmont and alluvial deposits.

Secondary porosity like joints, fractures, bedding planes etc. give rise to development of

potential aquifers in consolidated and semi-consolidated formations with moderate to low

yield prospects. Boulder, pebble, gravels and sand of unconsolidated formation constitute

highly potential aquifers under unconfined to semi-confined conditions. Piedmont zone

with high permeability, sloping topography and sub-surface runoff is characterised by

poor to moderate yield ranging from 5 to 50 cum per hour. Aquifers in alluvial plain are

highly potential with yield prospects ranging from 50 to 150 cum per hour.

The contact of these two formations is marked by an E-W trending discontinuous spring

line. In shallow unconfined aquifers the depth to water level is in the range of 4 to 10 m

below ground level. The depth to water level deepens progressively in the northern foot

hill areas. Water level in shallow aquifers is shallow with in 4m below ground level. In

the deeper semi-confined aquifers the depth to water level is observed with in 8m below

ground level. Water level fluctuation is in the order of 2 to 6 m in the northern foot hill

part and less than 2m in the central and southern parts.

Deeper aquifers are productive with yields ranging from 50 to 180 cum per hour. The

stage of development of ground water is less than 10% hence is Safe category. In the

piedmont zone the ground water occurs under water table conditions. In flood plain and

alluvial plains the ground water occurs under both water table as well as confined

conditions. Aquifers at 200m below ground level with expected yield of 27 litres per




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second are reported. Long term trend of water level does not show any significant change

- indicating a stable ground water regime.

3.10.4 Land Slide in the area

The Darjeeling Hill area represents a unique geo- environmental perception. The area of

study is primarily composed of erosional landforms produced by southerly flowing

streams, which have exposed a full cross section of different tectonic units. The form

units are, however approximately the same throughout the hill area, having more or less

uniform lithology, structure, climate, soil and vegetative covers.

The soils of Darjeeling Hill area have developed depending upon the underlying

geological structure. But, in general the soils have been developed by both fluvial action

and lithological disintegration. The soils are predominantly reddish in color. Occasional

dark soils are found due to extensive existence of phyllitic and schists. Soils in the

highlands stretching from the west to the east of the district along most of the interfluvial

areas are mainly mixed sandy loam and loamy, while those on the southern slopes are

mainly clayey loam and reddish in color. Sandy soils are mainly found along Rammam

River.

All the soils are definitely acidic in nature with the tendency to increase slightly in depth

in most cases indicating the lacking of bases from surface and accumulation in the lower

horizons. The weathering of lateritic type is the substantial mechanism in the

transformation of the substratum. The variable thickness of the regolith and soils depend

on the rate of weathering and gradient of the longitudinal slope profiles and intensity /

gravity of mass movements. The basic soil types are yellow soils, red brown soils and

brown forest soils. Red and yellow soils have developed on gneiss while brown on schists

and shales. Coarse pale yellow to red brown soils are found on the Siwaliks while clayey

dark soils are developed on Daling series.




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The character of the bedrock is reflected only in the grain size composition of the soil. On

the Darjeeling gneiss, very coarse-grained (50% -80%) particles are found. In Damuda

and Daling series percentage of sandy and coarse particles in the soils are high. On the

Siwaliks, silty – clay fraction is higher. The chemical content of the soil over Darjeeling

gneiss is characterized by a high proportion of potassium derived from feldspar and

muscovite mica. This soil is poor in lime, magnesium, iron oxides, phosphorous and

nitrogen. Therefore, lime is used in the tea plantation areas.

The landslide affected areas are areas cultivated with root crops like potato, ginger,

cardamom and onions. These root crops are harvested just after monsoon in the months of

September – October. This particular practice changes the cohesiveness of the soil and

makes it vulnerable to erosion. The slope instability factors along the main thoroughfares

due to heavy vehicular movements is another big problem that causes frequent land slides

along the roads, especially during rainy season. The problem of quarry operation and

their effect on environment is also another threatening problem. The illegally operated

quarries not only disturb the slope stability but also overburden the river and their

tributaries with excessive amount of load that ultimately leads to massive siltation along

the river beds and the adjoining plains. Thus, they destroy the ecological equilibrium of

the area. The landslides may be attributed to the effect of stone quarrying under the main

thoroughfare.

3.10.5 Seismicity

The project area belongs to the Lesser Himalaya, exposing varied rock types belonging to

different tehono-stratigraphic units thrown into complex fold system and tectonically

disturbed by faults and thrusts of different composition.

The Rammam basin has experienced quite a few earthquakes of moderate to severe

intensities in the last 100-120 years. The significant ones are the Great Assam Earthquake

of 12thJune 1897 and Dhubri Earthquake of 15thJanuary, 1934. The project area forms a

part of the seismic zone-IV (as per seismic zoning map of BIS). As per Bureau of Indian




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Standard (BIS) recommendation 0.1 g horizontal and 0.05 g vertical acceleration is to be

considered for design of structures on consolidated foundations.

The seismic study has beenconducted by IIT Roorkee. The suggestedEarth Quake (EQ)

design parameters have beencleared from National Committee of Seismic Design

Parameters (NCSDP) of CWC and arebeing adopted for design of the projectcomponents.

(Report already submitted toMOEF, Shillong through e-mailin May 2011)

(Ref. Compliance Report submitted videNHL/RammamIII/11-12/01 dated 9th May

2011).

3.10.6 Soils

Soil is the product of geological, chemical and biological interactions. The soil in a

region varies according to altitude and climate. The soil like any other region of

Himalayas are young. The vegetal cover is one of the most important influencing factor

characterizing the soil types in a region. Soil on the slope above 30o, due to erosion and

mass wasting processes, are generally shallow and usually have very thin surface

horizons. Such soils have medium to coarse texture. Residual soils are well developed on

level summits of lesser Himalayas, sub-soils are deep and heavily textured. High contents

of organic matter are found in its `A’ horizon and are acidic in nature.

3.11 HYDROLOGY

Hydrological data for the Rammam River available in the DPR of Rammam HEPP Stage-

III was utilized. The baseline data was studied for evaluating the basin characteristics,

drainage pattern, hydrology, ground water regime and downstream wateruse.

The river Rammam is a major tributary of the Ranjit river which confluences with the

Teesta river. It rises from the Mane Bhanjan – Tongbu – Phalut ridge of the lower

Himalayas which are continuation of Kanchan Jungha mountain ranges, at an elevation of

about 3631 m. The River Rammam forms a natural boundary between the states of West

Bengal & Sikkim. The main tributaries of Rammam river are Kali Khola, Shiri Khola,

Lodhama khola, Jhepi Khola and Riyang Khola. In the initial stretch the river Rammam




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flows along westernly direction for about 6 Km upto the confluence with its tributary

Kali Khola at an elevation of 2448 m. Further, its course changes towards N-S direction

and after traversing for a length of about 18 Km from origin, one of its major tributary

Shiri Khola joins the river at an elevation of about 1542 m where Stage-I of Rammam

H.E project is located. The slope of the river is moderate in their stretch (1 in 11.25).

Further downstream, the river takes a U-bend near the confluence point of tributary

Lodhama Khola. The Stage-II of the Rammam H.E project is located upsteam of

confluence point of Lodhama, Khola. The tributaries Jhepi Khola and Riyang Khola join

the river at about 2.5 Km and 6.5 Km downstream of confluence point of Lodhama

Khola. At an elevation of 700m the river takes an ~S’ bend and the stage III diversion

structure is located at about 1.5 Km upstream from the bend. The river flows in we

sternly direction upto confluence with Rangit river at an elevation of 305m. There is

considerable snow fed region in the catchment area of Rammam river in its upper

reaches. A significant portion of the catchment area is densely forested. The meandering

course between the diversion weir and the proposed power house of Stage-III project is

about 26 Km and the average gradient is about 1 in 26.

The Rammam river has a total length of about 42 km from its source in Phalut to its

confluence point with Rangit river at Naya Bazar. The total Catchment area of Rammam

river upto the project site is 24.7 Km2.

3.11.1 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

i) To assess the water availability of the proposed project so as to carryout

simulation studies for estimation of power potential.

ii) To determine the probable maximum floods corresponding to different

probabilities so as to ensure safe passage of flood.




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3.11.2 Rainfall Data

The daily rainfall data for the first four rain gauge stations given below is observed by the

India Meteorological Department (IMD). Three of these stations are located on the

periphery of the catchment area whereas Darjeeling station is located outside the

catchment area.

Table 3.21 Gauge and Discharge Data

S.No. Name of Station Annual Average

Rainfall (mm)

Data Availability

Elevation(m)

1. Sandakpu 3828 1976-86 3400 2. Phalut 4326 1976-83 3596 3. Bijanbari 2024 1976-86 1065 4. Darjeeling 2758 1976-86 2127 5. Dandegaon 2780 1967-75 2439 6. Rammam Village

(Lingsingbong) 2820 1985-86 900

The following gauge and discharge data is available in neighbouring downstream

catchment.

Sl. No. Name of G & D Site Period of Availability of Daily Discharge

1. Singlabazar 1973-74 to 1983-84 2. Lodhama Khola 1985-86 to 1990-91 (upto Dec.)

& 1994-95 (Jan to May) 3. Discharge calculated from

Generation Data (in Mw) for Rammam Stage-II H.E Project

1997-98 to 2004-05

For the proposed project, the available ten daily discharge data of Singlabazar as well as

discharge data as derived based on Rammam Stage-II H.E Project generation data are

considered for water availability studies.




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Before the available data could be used for developing the flow series at diversion site,

the consistencies of observed data are required to be established. The average of annual

rainfall of two raingauge stations at Dandagaon and Lingsingbong established in the

project vicinity is 2800mm. The annual average discharge at Singlabazar is 2514 mm

which gives a runoff factor of 89% which, though on higher side is quite responsible

considering the rocky terrain in most of the upper reaches. For the river Lodhama Khola,

which has a catchment area of 79 Km2, the annual specific yield based on six years of

observed discharge data is 31.3 Cumecs/Sq. Km.

For Singlabazar, the specific yield based on discharge data for the period 1973-74 to

1984-85 is 29.17 Cumecs/Sq. Km which is found to be consistent.

Comparison of Specific Yield of Singlabazar & Lodhama (G&D Sites

Site May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr Annual Singlabazar 2.2 5.9 6.1 5.9 3.0 1.4 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.5 0.6 0.98 29.17 Lodhama 2.4 6.5 8.2 5.8 3.1 1.6 1.0 0.7 0.5 0.6 0.6 1.1 31.3

For discharge data of Rammam Stage-II (based on generation data), an attempt has been

made to establish the consistency and the annual average specific yield worked out based

on generation data for the period 1997-98 to 2004-05 is 10.3 Cumecs/Sq. Km. This value

is quite low compared to specific yields at Singlabazar and Lodhama. The flows of River

Rammam are diverted to Stage-II power house through a trench weir and the discharges

from the tail race are released into Lodhama Nala.. Since the Stage-II discharge flows

account for only the diverted flows and not the entire available flows of the river and

especially during the monsoon period (June to October) considerable spill over flows

occur which are not gauged, specific yield turned out to be low.

Alternatively regression analysis has been carried out by correlating lean flow peiods

(November to May) of Singlabazar and Rammam Stage-II ten daily flows as almost

entire flows are utilized for power generation during lean period. Since, concurrent period

data is not available, the average ten daily flows for the available periods for the




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respective sites is used. The correlation coefficient is found to be quite high which shows

and consistency of the data. The correlation relationship equation so developed is as

follows:

(i) Y = 1.8802x-0.1545 R = 0.898 (Nov to May)

The non-monsoon flow series of Singlabazar and Rammam Stage-II flows are found to

be consistent. However for Monsoon period, these flow series cannot be correlated as

only partial utilization of flow series will be done at Rammam Stage-II site.

3.11.3 Water Availability Studies

The discharge data available at Singlabazar for the period 1973-74 to 1984-85(12 years)

and the discharge data of Rammam-II H.E. Scheme (based on generation data) are

utilized for evolving flow series. Any gaps in the flow series data are filled based on the

average flows or based on the preceding and succeeding year flows. Since, sufficient

rainfall data for considerable period is not available. Rainfall-Runoff correlation could

not be attempted. Hence, the ten daily flows at Singlabazar (C.A 390 Km2) are

transposed to Rammam Stage-II Site (C.A 247 Km2) in catchment area proportion.

An attempt has been made to evolve flow series based on the hourly generation data of

Rammam Stage-II and assuming n as 0.9 and Hnet as 502m. For the lean flow period, the

ten daily flow series of Rammam Stage-II H.E scheme (C.A : 162 Km2) are transposed to

Stage-III site in catchment area proportion as for non-monsoon months the entire

available flows are utilized. However, for monsoon months (June-October), this approach

is not suitable as only a part of available flows are diverted to power house. Hence, for

evolving ten daily flow series for the monsoon months, the ratio of each ten daily flow

value of Singlabazar for the monsoon flow period with respect to the corresponding total

non-monsoon runoff for the entire lean period has been calculated and the average of ten

daily ratios for the 12 years for the monsoon period are considered for assessing the

monsoon flows of Stage-III Rammam H.E Scheme. Using these average ratios, each ten




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daily value for the monsoon period is deduced by multiplying the corresponding average

ten daily ratio with the total non-monsoon flows for that particular year.

The Lodhama flow series based on the discharge data available on the lodhama nala (C.A

31.5 Km2, inclusive of Dilpa Khola flows) are available for the period 1985-86 to 1990-

1991. These have been transposed to joining point of Lodhama and Rammam (C.A : 79

Km2) in catchment area proportion. An alternate flow series has been evolved for Stage-

III by transposing the Singlabazar ten daily flow series for a catchment area of 168 Km2

(i.e. Rammam Stage III catchment area –Lodhama catchment area (247-79) and then

adding entire Lodhama flows.

In compliance to CWC’s observations regarding updating the flow series, additional

studies have been carried out for evolving the flow series at Rammam Stage-III by

adopting the following three approaches:

i) Monthly Runoff – Runoff correlation between Singlabazar discharge data and

Rangit Stage-IV data (available since June 1975 for 26 years) for the concurrent

period (1975-76 to 1984-85) after elimination of outliers after carrying detailed

regression analysis.

ii) Extending Singlabazar Flow series based on Rangit Stage-IV data in catchmean

area proportion after applying necessary correction.

iii) Rainfall-Runoff Correlation between SinglaBazar discharge data and available

rainfall data.

3.11.4 Runoff-Runoff Correlation

The Rangit Stage-IV H.E Project is located abount 10 km downstream of Rangit Stage-III

on river Rangit and has a catchment of 1232 Sq. Kms. The approved flow series evolved

for Rangit Stage-V are based on transposing the discharge data of Rangit Stage III

(catchment area : 979 Km2) in catchment area proportion for which flow data is available

since June 1975 for a period of 26 years and is found to be consistent. Hence, an attempt

has been made to correlate mean monthly Singlabazar flow data and Rangit IV flow data




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(as obtained from Rangit Stage-IV H.E Project DPR) for the concurrent period 1975-76

to 1984-85 after elimination of a few outliers after carrying out detailed regression

analysis.

The correlation coefficients are reasonably good considering the variation in catchment

size. Hence using the correlation equations developed and the monthly flows available

for Rangit Stage-IV from June 1985 onwards. The Singlabazar data is extended for a

period of 16 years thus evolving a series of 28 years.

For the extended monthly series for Singlabazar from 1985 onwards, the monthly series

are broken up into ten daily series on the basis of corresponding ten daily ratios of

observed data at Rangit Stage IV. The 28 year flow series at Singlabazar are transposed

to Rammam Stage-III in catchment area proportion and T-test carried out for the evolved

series.

Alternatively an attempt has been made to correlate mean Monsoon Singlabazar flow

data and Rangit IV flow data (as obtained from Rangit Stage-IV H.E Project DPR) for the

concurrent period 1975-76 to 1984-85 after elimination of a few outliers. However, this

approach is not found to be suitable as it gives negative flows for several months.

3.11.5 Extending Singlabazar flow series based on Rangit Stage-IV data.

The catchment area of Rangit Stage-IV Project and Singlabazar G&D site are 1232 &

390 Km2 respectively. The flow series of Rangit from 1985-86 onwards are reduced in

catchment area proportion (390/1232) to extend Singlabazar flows for a period of 16

years thus evolving a total length of flow series of 28 years. However, the flow ratios of

the monthly flows of Singlabazar and Rangit –IV far exceed the catchment ratio. Hence,

a correction factor need to be applied on the evolved flow series derived on catchment

area proportion as the tributary Rangit has significant snowmelt contribution whereas it is

not so in case of Singlabazar.




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For the extended monthly series for Singlabazar from 1985 onwards, the monthly series

are broken up into ten daily series on the basis of corresponding ten daily ratios of

observed data at Rangit Stage IV.

3.11.6 Rainfall –Runoff Correlation

Efforts have been made for collection of additional rainfall data for Rainfall Runoff

Correlation Studies. It has been confirmed by Forest Department officials that no

raingauge data is available for the project catchment area. However, some rainfall data

has been procured from IMD as per the following details.

S.No. Name of Raingauge Station Periodof data availability 1 Bijanbari 1971 to 2004 2. Phalut 1971 to 1983 3. Sandakpu 1970-72, 1980-83 & 1986 4 Darjeeling 1970-2004

Since Darjeeling Raingauge is located for away from project area, it has been ignored.

For the proposed project catchment area rainfall for significant period is available only

for Bijanbari and Phalut raingauges (for the period 1973 to 1983). Since the catchment

area is quite small (247 Sq. Kms), these stations have been considered as the index

rainfall for the catchment in absence of any other raingaue date. Using Singlabazar G &

D date and average of Bijanbari and Phalut Rajnfall date for the concurrent period 1975-

84, an attempt has been made to establish Rainfall –Runoff correlation for monsoon

period (June to Oct.)

Rainfall –Runoff correlation is very good (R=0.93). However the flow series cannot

extended using this correlation as Phalut rainfall data is available only upto 1983 and

correlation of Singlabazar frow data with Bijanbari rainfall data alone gave unsatisfactory

results (as given in the earlier report)




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Comparison of Results

After evaluating the results obtained from the above approaches, it is decided to adopt the

flow series derive based on monthly correlation between Singlabazar and Raingit stage –

IV frowns for power potential simulation studies.

3.11.7 DESIGN FLOOD STUDIES

The design flood is the flood selected for design or safety evaluation of the structure. For

a diversion structure, 100-year design flood or standard project flood value is considered

for hydraulic design based on following methods.

I) Hydro-meteorological approach (Dimensionless unit hydrograph method

as well as synthetic hydrograph approach).

II) Statistical Approach-Flood frequency analysis.

The return period design flood proposed to be adopted would be as per criteria delineated

in the CWC Manual on estimation of design flood.

Inflow design flood return

period

Cross Storage (Mm3) Hydraulic Head (m)

100 yr flood Between 0.5 and 10 Between 7.5 and 12

SPF Between 10 and 60 Between 12 & 30

PMF /10000 yr Greater then 60 Greater than 30

For the proposed project, the height of the barrage is more than 12m and gross storage is

less than 1 MCM. Hence standard Project Flood (SPF) can be considered as design flood.

3.11.8 Dimensionless Unit Hydrograph

The choice of the method of design flood estimation depends upon the specific

requirement and the data availability. For the proposed project short interval rainfall –

runoff data is not available which is the basic requirement for derivation of unit




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hydrograph & for assessing the time distribution curves for the rainfall. Hence

transposing of dimensionless unit hydrograph as derived based on flood Unit Hydrograph

of Ranjit H.E scheme on river Teesta (carried out by C.W.C to derive unit hydrograph for

the proposed project has been attempted.

The unit hydrograph derived for Ranjit H.E. Scheme (Catchment area 979 Km2) is made

dimensionless by plotting a graph T/Tm vs Q/Qp. For the project catchment area of

Rammam, the basic parameters QP and Tm are calculated using empirical formulae given

in sub-zone 2(a) Report. The dimensionless unit hydrograph has been transposed to

Rammam catchment by dividing the time and discharge ordinate values (i.e T/Tm and

Q/Qp) of the dimensionless graph with Tm and Tm/V values of Rammam catchment

respectively. Using time distribution coefficients as given is Sub zone 2(a) Report,

Rainfall excess were calculated and are convoluted with unit hydrograph ordinated. The

derivation of U.H for Rammam H.E scheme based on 3 hour U.H of Ranjit H.E Scheme

is as follows.

Ranjit H.E Scheme U.H ordinates

Dimensionless U.G. ordinated (V=2719m3)

Rammam H.E Scheme U.G Ordinates (Tm=5, V=686.66m3)

T Q t/tm Q*tm/V T/tm*Tm Q*(Tm/V)*(V/Tm)

3 14 0.33 0.05 1.51 0.000.

6 107 .67 0.35 3.01 0.000

9 294 1.00 0.97 4.52 147.813

15 140 1.67 0.46 7.53 70.387

18 52 2.00 0.17 9.04 25.993

21 26 2.33 0.09 10.55 13.072

24 12 2.67 0.04 12.05 5.882

One day PMP value as per IMD PMP Atlas is 560 mm. Assuming a moisture adjustment

factor (MAF) as 1.25, one-day SPP value is 448 mm. The 100 year, 50 year and 25 year

return period 24 hour rainfall values are read from the isopluvial lines prepared by I.M.D




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as given in Sub zone 2 (a) report and are 400, 360 & 320 mm respectively. Affter

applying areal correction factor on 0.9 for accounting the day rainfall recorded in the

proximately located raingauge station has been examined and it is found that Linsingbong

has the highest 1-day rainfall (221.5 mm) followed by Dandagaon (208.6mm), Phalut

(201.2 mm), Raman Village (180.4mm) and

Sandakphu (100.4 mm). The design loss rate and base flow (0.24 cm/hr & 0.05.

Cumecs/Km2 respectively) are adopted from sub-zone 2 (a) report.

The 100 year return period flood is 1825 Cumecs and the SPF value derived using IMD

value is 2864 Cumec.

3.11.9 Derivation of synthetic Unit Hydrograph

CWC in association with IMD and MOST has prepared Flood Estimation Reports for

small and medium catchment for efficient hydro meteorological sub-zones. The proposed

project area is located in sub zone 2a. Accordingly the present flow studies are based on

Flood Estimation Report for Sub Zone 2a (1991) prepared by CWC.

The formulae for calculation of various parameters of synthetic U. are given below.

Parameter Calculations

Parameters Formulae qp 2.272(LLC/VS)-0.409 Tp 2.164 (qp)-0.940 W50 2.084(qp)-1.065 W75 1.028(qp)-1.071 WR50 8.856(qp)-0.865 WR75 0.440(qp)-0.918 Tb 5.428(tp)-0.852 Qp Qp xA

Where Tm=tp+t-2 hrs

Tp Time from the center of effective rainfall duration to the U.G. Peak (hrs.




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L Length of longes main stream along the river course in m

Lc length of longer main stream from a point opposite to centroid of the catchment

area to the gauging site along the main stream in Km.

S Equivalent stream slope in m/km.

Qp peak discharge of unit hydrograph in Cumec

W50 Width of U.G. measured at 50% of peak discharge ordinated (hrs.)

W75 Width of U.G. measured at 75% of peak discharge ordinated (hrs.)

WR50 Width of the rising limp of U.G. measures at 50% of peak discharge ordinate (hr.)

WR75 Width of the rising limp of U.G. measures at 75% of peak discharge ordinate (hr.)

Qp peak discharge of unit hydrograph (cumecs.)

The above relationship are recommended to estimate the parameters of 1-hour synthetic

unit graph for an ungauged catchment with known physiographic parameters A, L, Lc

and S for catchment area below 5000 km2.

For calculation of Lc (centroid distance), a cardboard template have been cut out in the

shape of sub-catchment area of Rammam river (upto diversion site) and is hung freely

using plumb bob and thread. Three axial lines were drawn by hanging cardboard in three

different directions. The point of intersection of these three lines gives the centroid of the

sub-catchment area. A point on the river which is nearest to centroid is considered and

the distance from that point to the project site is measured which gives the Lc.

a) Design Loss Rate: A design loss rate of 0.24 cm/hr has been adopted as

recommended by CWC’s sub zone report r (a)

b) Design Storm Duration: The base period of the SUG is for more than 24 hours, hence

one day design storm is considered

c) Pint to Areal Rainfall Ratios: areal correction factors as recommended in CWC’s sub

zone 2 (a) has been adopted.




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d) Time Distribution Coefficients: The Time Distribution Coefficients for 24 hours is

given below: (vide sub-zone 2(a)

Table 3.22 Time Distribution Coefficients

Time in Hours Distribution Coefficient

Time in hours Distribution coefficient

1 0.13 13 0.79 2 0.25 14 0.81 3 0.32 15 0.84 4 0.40 16 0.86 5 0.47 17 0.88 6 0.52 18 0.90 7 0.56 19 0.92 8 0.61 20 0.93 9 0.65 21 0.95 10 0.69 22 0.97 11 0.73 23 0.98 12 0.76 24 1.00

e) Design Base Flow: As recommended by CWC’s sub zone report 2(a) a base flow rate

of 0.05 cumecs/sq. km has been adopted for the catchment area.

f) Critical Sequence of Rainfall Excess: The critical sequence of rainfall excess should

be characteristic of the area under study. When data is not available, to facilitate the

adoption of this principle, the arrangement of

g) Rainfall increments into design hyetograph may be made in the form of two bells of

12 hours each per day.

h) Convolution: In convolution the U.G. ordinates at unit duration interval are multiplied

by each of the rainfall excess ordinates of the design hyetograph and these are added

by lagging one hour duration at a time.

i) Computation of Unit Hydrograph: Using the basic physiographic parameters, unit

hydrograph is plotted and its each volume is calculated and adjusted to 1 cm while

adjusting the hydrograph the volumes Qp Tm & Ta are not changed. The design flood

hydrograph have been computed after the rainfall excess increments have been




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arranged in a critical sequence (after matching with UG ordinates) and reversed and

convoluted. The base flow from rain fed area & snow fed contribution is added to the

ordinates of the surface flow hydrograph to obtain total flood hydrograph.

The 100 year return period flood value thus obtained by Synthetic UG Hydro-

meterorological Approach is 1540 Cumec.

3.11.10 Flood Frequency Analysis

Flood frequency anaysisi provides a quick estimate of the design flood and is also useful

for cecking the design flood values computed by other methods.

It is carried out in two methods viz. – The Annual Maximum method and the Peak over

Threshold (POT) method (also known as partial duration method). For the present study

daily annual maximum values are used for carrying out flood frequency studies.

The long term annual instanteous peak flow series at project site is not available . As such

the 12 year annual peak discharge series of Singlabazar G & D site on the

River Rammam has been used for frequency analysis. The results obtained were

transposed to proposed diversion site with due consideration to the variation of catchment

size. The available data has been subjected to randomness check, stationary test, outlier

test. Extreme value distribution also known as Gumbel distribution and Log Pearson

Type III distribution are attempted for the present study. Chi square test for LPT-III

distribution and Gumbel distribution is used to test the goodness of fit and it is found that

Gumbel distribution is found to be a good fit.

The final results of various return period floods estimated at Singlabazar are transposed

to Proposed Scheme site using Dicken’s formula Q = CA.

The 100 year return period flood of 1825 Cumecs as obtained from dimenstionless

hydrograph approach is recommended as design flood (for design of barrage). The SPF

value derived using IMD value is 2864 Cumec which may be used for other

considerations.




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3.11.12 Diversion Flood

The diversion flood for the proposed project has been computed using non monsoon

peaks for the period 1973-84 of Singlabazar G & D site. The diversion flood for various

return periods as calculated using Gumbel distribution, which is found to be the best fit,

is as follows.

Sl.No. Return Period Years

Diversion Flood for Rammam Stage-III (Cumecs)

1 2 20.75 2 10 40.21 3 25 50.01 4 50 57.29 5 100 64.50 6 500 81.17

The risk factors involved in adoption of such floods have also been estimated as per

different probable construction periods using the following relationship:

Risk(P) = 1 – (1-Td)/Td

Where Td = Return Period of design food

L = Construction period in years

The risk factors corresponding to different return period flood and probable construction

period of 4 years, 6 years, 8 years & 10 years have been worked out and given below.

Sl.No. Return Period (Yrs)

Magnitude of Flood (Cumec)

Risk during construction period of

4 Yrs 6Yrs 8 Yrs 10 Yrs

1 10 40.21 0.344 0.469 0.570 0.651

2 25 50.01 0.151 0.217 0.279 0.335

3 50 57.29 0.078 0.114 0.149 0.183




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The details study on Hydrology is enclosed as Annexure-XVIIA. The Hydrological

series as placed at Annexure-XVIIB has been considered for further analysis and design

of the project.

3.11.13 Drainage Pattern

The drainage pattern of the study area exhibits dendritic pattern as shown in Fig 3.14

below. The main tributaries of river Rammam are Kali Khola, Shiri Khola, Lodhama

Khola, Jhepi Khola and Riyang Khola.

Fig 3.14 Drainage map around 10 km radius

3.11.14 Catastrophic Events like Cloud Burst and Flash Floods

Rammam River is river in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. It originates in

the Singalila range and has much of its course through Darjeeling district. The Teesta is a




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transboundary river shared by Bangladesh and India, which has a steep slope and high

seasonal flow variability. Flash flooding occurs from May to September during the

monsoon period. However, river flow decreases significantly from October to April.

Teesta river starts rising in late March due to snow melt in the Himalayas. The peak flow

occurs between July and September due to heavy rain.

3.11.15 Sedimentation data

Sediment is one of the major obstructions on the flow line or channel of water and

unmanageable quantity of it shorten longevity of channels. Moreover, it causes soil

erosion. Therefore, study of sediments and nature of its deposits on downstream are very

important for preparation of any water supply projects.

The project is a Run of River (ROR) project in which barrage bays with crest level at

river bed level have been proposed for flushing out the silt at regular intervals. Suitable

sediment management practices like routine flushing during flood period will be evolved

to avoid sediment deposition in the pond. Moreover, intake has been proposed to be

located at suitably higher level above the spillway crest to prevent the entry of the silt in

the water conductor system. Underground desilting chambers have been proposed for

removal of silt particles of size 0.20 mm and above.

3.11.16 Environmental flow


iv) A minimum flow of 1 cumec shall always be released from the barrage.

The minimum flow to be released is about 22% of the minimum flow of

4.47 cumec recorded in the river

The project has been designed accordingly. However, the standard TOR condition

stipulates that the minimum environmental flow shall be 20% of the flow of four

consecutive lean months of 90% dependable year, 30% of the average monsoon flow.

The flow for remaining months shall be in between 20-30%, depending on the site

specific requirements.




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The change in minimum flow as per Standard TOR at this stage shall drastically reduce

the power generation from the project and render the project commercially unviable.



(a) National Green Trbunal in its Order dated 09/08/2017 in the matter of Pushp Saini

Vs. Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change & Others regarding

environmental flow of the rivers directed that all the rivers in the country shall

maintain minimum 15 % to 20% of the average lean season flow of that river.

During the same case, counsel appearing for Ministry of Environment, Forest and

Climate Change submitted that the Ministry has already completed river basin

study of 6 river basins i.e. Siang River Basin, Twang River Basin, Bichom River

Basin, Subansiri River Basin, Dibang River Basin and Lohit River Basin and

upon study the Ministry has recommended the minimum flow of the river to be

18% of the average of lean season flow of the river. However, in some of the

cases, it has stated to be even 20%.

(b) Further, MOEF&CC has also undertaken a Cumulative Impact Assessment and

Carrying Capacity Study (CIA & CCS) of Teesta River Basin. The minutes of

EAC (Hydro) meeting held on 23.04.2019, during which a presentation was made

on the CIA and CCS Study, it was noted that Rammam-II & Rammam-III are

under operation and construction stage respectively. However, for Rammam-I and

Rammam Intermediate HEP Environmental Flows have been recommended as

per the following Norms:

Monsoon

Season

30% of average Discharge of monsoon season for 90%

Depenable Year

Non Monsoon

Non Lean

Season

25% of average Discharge of Non-Monsoon Lean season

for 90% Depenable Year

Lean Season 20% of average Discharge of lean season for 90%

Depenable Year




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In view of the above, NTPC Rammam HEPP will maintain the minimum Environmental

flow of 1 cumecs as stipulated in the original environmental cleaarnce.

3.12 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

3.12.1 Introduction

An ecological survey of the study area was conducted particularly with reference to

recording the existing biological resources in the study area. Ecological studies are one of

the important aspects of Environmental Impact Assessment with a view to conserve

environmental quality and biodiversity. Ecological systems show complex inter-

relationships between biotic and abiotic components including dependence, competition

and mutualism. Biotic components comprise of both plant and animal communities,

which interact not only within and between themselves but also with the abiotic

components viz. physical and chemical components of the environment.

Generally, biological communities are good indicators of climatic and edaphic factors.

Studies on biological aspects of ecosystems are important in Environmental Impact

Assessment for safety of natural flora and fauna. The biological environment includes

terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

The animal and plant communities co-exist in a well-organized manner. Their natural

settings can get disturbed by any externally induced anthropological activities or by

naturally occurring calamities or disaster. So, once this setting is disturbed, it sometimes

is either practically impossible or may take a longer time to come back to its original

state. Hence, changes in the status of flora and fauna are an elementary requirement of

Environmental Impact Assessment studies, in view of the need for conservation of

environmental quality and biodiversity. Information on flora and fauna was collected

within the study area. Relevant details on aquatic life within the study area were collected

from related government offices.




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3.12.2 Objectives

(i) To study the present ecological status and biodiversity of core and buffer zones of

project areas

(ii) To generate baseline data on flora and fauna, and aquatic ecology of core and

buffer zones with assessment of possible impacts

3.12.3 Study area

The study area 10 km area of the existing site situated in Darjeeling district of West

Bengal and West Sikkim district of Sikkim states. The study area falls mainly in lower

and middle hill forest only. The forests present in the study area have been grouped into

different forest types following the classification of Champion & Seth (1968), Hajra &

Das (1982), Negi, (1989, 1996), Hajra & Verma (1996), Srivastva (1998). As the 10 km

study area of the existing barrage as well as powerhouse site and township falls within

the altitude of 1000m hence the major forest types found in this catchment are discussed

below.

Semi tropical Low-level forest

Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests

Temperate forests

Sub alpine forest

The above mentioned forest classes are briefly described in the following paragraphs

Semi-tropical low level forests

These forests are found in the valleys and the lower slopes of the hills upto an elevation

of 1000 to 1300 m above mean level. Sal (Shorea rubusta) is the dominant tree species in

these forests found in association with Champa (Michelia champaea), Lampata

(Duabanga sonneratioides), Pakasaj (Terminalia tomentosa), Panisaj (Terminelia

myriocarpa), and rubber (Ficus elastica). The soils in the forests are generally freshly

laid allvium deposited by the rivers and streams.




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Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests

This type of forest is a common feature of the study area as this type of forest is found

near the powerhouse site, township area and the barrage site. These low hill forests occur

from 230 m up to 900 m. The important species of the forest are Haldinia cordifolia,

Aglaia lawii, Altsonia neriifolia, A. scholaris, Artocarpus integrifolia, Bombax ceiba,

Canarium strictum, Duabanga grandiflora, Erythrina arborescens, Ficus semicordata, F.

racemosa, Mangifera sylvatica, Shorea robusta, Terminalia myriocarpa, Tetrameles

nudiflora, etc. The shrubs are Boehmeria pendulifera, B. platyphylla, Callicarpa arborea,

Clerodendrum japonicum, Dendrocalamus sikkimensis, Eupatorium odoratum, Lantana

camara, Phyllostachys bambusoides, Saurauia roxburghii, Leea aequatica, L. indica and

Ziziphus mauritiana. Among twiners are Bauhinia vahlii, Celastrus paniculatus,

Cryptolepis buchananii, Entada phaseoloides, Stephania glabra, etc. There are some

riverine semi-evergreen types of elements such as Albizia chinensis, Bischofia javanica,

Oroxylum indicum, Pandanus nepalensis, Rhus chinensis, etc. found along the river bank.

The other riverine elements are tall grasses like Imperata cylindrica, Neyraudia

arundinacea, Pennisetum orientale, P. purpureum, Saccharum spontaneum and

Thysanolaena latifolia.

Temperate forests

These forests are observed at elevation between 1200 to 3000 m above mean sea level.

The forests area characterized by excessive atmospheric moisture, and their most striking

feature is the wealth of orchids, fern and mosses and other epiphytes and creepers which

load the branches of old trees. Large number of tree ferns, interspersed with small

bamboo and wild plants are observed at lower elevations of this zone. The trees, many of

which grow to a great height and girth belong to great number of different genera, the

principle being Oak, Magnolias, Chestnut and maples, though laurels are also well

represented. The most valuable tree species, Michelia excelsa, whose timber is used for

panelling and flooring in houses, and is consequently in great demand. The other

important tree species observed in these forests is Toon (Cedrela toona) which provides

one of the best light planking wood in India. Earlier, the timber from this tree was most




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popular in the country for making tea boxes. The other tree species found in these forests

are Bak (Quercus lamellose), Phalat (Quercus lineate), Singari Katus (Quercus

pachyphylla), Katus (Castonopsis hystrix), Pipli (Bucklandia populnea), etc.

Sub-alpine Forests

These forests are observed at elevation above 2500 to 3600 m. At higher elevations Silver

fir is dominant, while spruce is the dominant species at lower elevations. The other

dominant tree in these forests is Birch (Betula utilis). At higher elevation, the

undergrowth consists of hill bamboos (Arundinaria recemosa) which are used for making

mats. Several species of aconite are also found which have some economic value.

Forest view Shorea robusta tree stand

Riverine forest Forest stand




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Tea plantation Stepping cultivation

Invasion of Chromolaena odorata Tree cutting

Landslide




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3.12.4 Cropping pattern

West Sikkim District

Sikkim belongs to Eastern Himalayan Zone. The state being hilly, the agro-climatic

condition ranges from sub-tropical in the lower valley to alpine in the upper reaches. Out

of the net 7096 sq. km., approximately 11% of the total geographical area is under

agriculture.

Due to agro-climatic advantages, West district has considerable potential for growing a

variety of horticulture crops such as large cardamom, orange, passion fruit, mushroom,

off-season vegetables and floriculture. The Horticulture and Cash Crop Development

Department may provide adequate support like supply of quality planting materials and

other post-harvesting facilities. Necessary infrastructure may be created for food

processing, marketing of horticulture crops and extension services to farmers. Crops and

areas of the West Sikkim District is given in the Table 3.23 & 3.24.

Table 3.23

Areas under field crops from West Sikkim District (Ha)

Major field crops cultivated

Kharif Rabi Grand total Irrigated Rainfed Total Irrigated Rainfed Total

Maize 12.88 12.88 12.88

Rice 4.19 4.19 4.19

Blackgram 1.4 1.4 1.4

Fingermillet 0.78 0.78

Buck wheat 2.16 2.16 2.16

Rape and Mustard 1.61 1.61 1.61

Wheat 1.02 1.02 1.02

Barley 0.5 0.5 0.5

Other pulses 0.31 0.31 0.31 Source: Agriculture Contingency plan of West Sikkim District

Table 3.24

Areas under horticultural crops from West Sikkim District (Ha)

Horticulture Fruit crops Irrigated Rrainfed Total

Orange 2.32 2.32

Other fruits 0.9 0.9

Horticulture crops Vegetables




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Rabi vegetables 0.96 0.96

Kharif vegetables 0.91 0.91

Vegetable (Off season) 0.39 0.48 0.87

Potato 3.26 3.26

Other roots and tubers 0.12 0.12

Medicinal and Aromatic crops

Large Cardamom 2.39 2.39

Ginger 1.98 1.98

Turmeric 0.18 0.18 Source: Agriculture Contingency plan of West Sikkim District

Darjeeling District

Rice is the most important Kharif crop, which presently accounts for 77% of the total rice

area and 68% of total area of the state. The Darjeeling district is a mountainous region

situated on the Himalayan chains which is acknowledged agriculturally and economically

backward region according to the indicators prescribed by different institutions to

determine agricultural development of a region. It is an area of great physical inequalities

with varied topographical features. The physical constraints are: (i) variations in

topography (ii) variations of soil fertility (iii) problems due to drainage and floods (iv)

uncertainty and uneven rainfall and temperature (v) soil erosion and landslides and (vi)

problems due to irrigation. All these factors directly or indirectly wholly or partly stood

in way of development of agriculture Darjeeling district in particular. The major field and

horticultural crops of the Darjeeling district is given in the Table 3.25 & 3.26.

Table 3.25

Areas under field crops from Darjeeling District (Ha)


Kharif Rabi Grand total Irrigated Rainfed Total Irrigated Rainfed Total

Rice 31.4 31.4 2.41 2.41 34.48

Maize 14.6 14.6 14.6

Wheat 1.5 1.5 1.5 Oilseed ( Mustard, Linseed) 14.3 14.3 14.3

Source: Agriculture Contingency plan of Darjeeling district




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Table 3.26

Areas under horticultural crops from Darjeeling District (Ha)

Horticultural crops Fruits Area

Pineapple 124.9 Mandarin 0.5 Other Citrus 5.7 Banana 3.3 Litchi 3 Horticultural crops vegetables

Cucumbers 65 Brinjal 46.4 Cabbage 29.2 Cauliflower 26.2 Radish 13.6 Medicinal/Aromatic and Plantation crops

Tea 21.3 Ginger 2.2 Chillies 0.5 Potato 6.7 Large Cardamom 4.8


3.12.5 Agricultural production system

The Darjeeling Himalaya of the ecosystem can be classified as forests, grasslands and

croplands or agricultural lands. Livestock and poultry are a strong and integral

component. Different species of animals are reared for draught, milk, and meat purposes

and they also supplement manure to meet the nutrient requirement of crops. Details of the

crop production and productivity given in Tables 3.27 & 3.28

Table 3.27

Production and productivity of major and horticultural crops from West Sikkim District


Kharif Rabi Total

Production (Tonnes)

Productivity (Kg/Ha)

Production (Tonnes)


Production (Tonnes)


Rice 7.262 1640 7.262 1640

maize 21.76 1645 21.76 1645

Finger Millet 1.085 920 1.085 920

Pulses 1.766 898 1.766 898

Wheat 2.296 1316 2.296 1316

Barley 0.384 1208 0.384 1208




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Buck Wheat 2.13 986 2.13 986

Rapeseed Mustard

0.608 721 0.68 721

Soyabean 0.476 822 0.476 822

Major Horticultural crops

Orange 3.43 1414

Passion fruits 0.087 174

Other fruits 1.45 1576

Vegetables 4.579 4556 4.677 4493 9.246 4524

Off-season vegetables

5.479 4715

Potato 14.2428 4325

Large Cardamom

0.575 230

Ginger 11.235 5350

Flowers 5.792 Source: Agriculture Contingency plan of West Sikkim District

Table 3.28

Production and productivity of major and horticultural crops from Darjeeling District Name of crop

Kharif Rabi Summer Total

Production (Tonnes)


Production (Tonnes)


Production (Tonnes)


Production (Tonnes)


Rice 48.7 1673 9.3 1576 2.6 1625 60.7 4874

Maize 29.2 2300 0 0 0 0 29.2 2300

Wheat 0 0 4.7 1700 0 0 4.7 1700

Millet (Kodo millet)

0.8 1600 0 0 0 0 0.8 1600

Rape seed 0 0 0.5 600 0 0 0.5 600

Vegetables (cabbage, Cauliflower, Radish etc)

2 7500 1.012 1000 1.4 7200 4.43 15700

Chilli 0.3 750 0 0 0 0 0.3 750

Ginger 0.6 3100 0 0 0 0 0.62 3100

Turmeric 0.2 1500 0 0 0 0 0.15 1500

Cardamon 0 245 0 0 0 0 0 245

Potato 0 0 113.1 15700 0 0 113.1 15700





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3.12.6 Vegetation composition in the study area

Submergence and Barrage area

The submergence area is 3.852 Ha, which is located in upstream of confluence of

Rammam Rivernear Lodhama Village in the Darjeeling district. The area in the vicinity

of project comprised degraded mixed broad-leaf tropical deciduous forest with few Semi-

evergreen riverine tree species.

On right bank of Rammam river, the tree canopy is comprised of Albizia chinensis,

Bischofia javanica, Duabanga grandiflora, Engelhardtia spicata, Erythrina arborescens,

Ficus reticulata, Gynocardia odorata, Schima wallichii and Tetradium fraxinifolium.

Second storey is also very thin and composed of some small trees and tall spreading

weeds. Boehmeria platyphylla, Caesalpinia decapetala, Euonymus pendulus,

Chromolaena odorata, Holmskioldia anguinea, Lantana camara, Rhamnus nepalensis,

etc. are found in the understorey. Climbers and epiphytes are often seen on the forest

floor. Cissus discolor, Cuscuta reflexa, Jasminum humile, Lygodium japonicum, Piper

sylvaticum, Stephania glabra, Todalia asiatica, etc. are important trailing species.

Herbaceous flora was represented by some pteridophytic plants, grasses and weeds. The

pteridophytes are represented by species of Adiantum, Coniograme, Lygodium,

Selaginella, etc. on this bank. Among the herbs and grasses are Ageratum conyzoides,

Artemisia nilagirica, Arundinella nepalensis, Arthraxon hispidus, Capillipedium

assimile, Commelina benghalensis, Eupatorium adenophorum, Imperata cylindrica,

Lespedeza gerardiana, Oxalis corniculata, Pilea scripta, Pogonatherum paniceum,

Saccharum spontaneum and Thysanolaena latifolia.

Species composition of left bank is more or less similar to the right bank but

Dendrocalmus hamiltonii clumps is the dominant and Alnus nepalensis was found as a

dominant tree species with other tree associates. Important tree associates were Albizia

chinensis, Bischofia javanica, Bombax ceiba, Duabanga grandiflora, Erythrina

arborescens, Oroxylum indicum, Pandanus nepalensis, Schima wallichii, etc. Second

storey was very open and occupied by few trailing and spreading shrubby species.

Dendrocalmus hamiltonii, Chromolaena odorata, Mimosa himalayana, etc. were in the




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under storey. Climbers and epiphytes were rare. Herbs were represented by few non

vascular pteridophytic plants, weeds and few grasses.

Fig 3.15 Barrage area

Powerhouse site

Surface power house of 120 MW (3 x 40 MW) has been proposed at the right bank of the

Rammam River, 50.0 m upstream of the confluence of the Ramsu Khola with Rammam

River. The species composition of the vegetation on the left bank and right bank is more

or less similar with the presence of more semi evergreen, mixed moist deciduous and

rivierine plant species found in the vicinity of power house. Major tree associates in this

area include Albizia chinensis, Bischofia javanica, Bombax ceiba, Callicarpa arborea,

Duabanga grandiflora, Haldinia cordifolia, Lagerstroemia lanceolata, Malotus

philippensis, Neolamarckia cadamba, Oroxylum indicum, Rhus chinensis, Shorea

robusta, Terminalia bellerica, and Terminalia myriocarpa. The composition of second

story plants are Brassiopsis mitis, Clerodendrum bracteatum, Debregeasia salicifolia,

etc. Boehmeria platyphylla, Leea aequata, Saurauia roxburghii, Vitex nigundo,

Woodfordia fruticosa, and many invasive fast growing species like Clerodendrum

japonicum, Chromolaena odorata, Lantana camara, etc. Climbers and epiphytes were




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also very few at this bank. Cissus repens, Cissampelos pariera, Mimosa himalayana,

Pueraria tuberosa, Stephania glabra, Vigna retusa, etc. were found trailing in the forest.

Epiphytes were represented by Dendrobium aduncum, Pepromia spp., Polypodium sp.,

Vittaria sp., etc. Among herbs were Ageratum conyzoides, Arthraxon hispidus,

Desmodium renifolium, Dichanthium annulatum, Eupatorium adenophorum, Flemingia

fruticosa, Neyraudia arundinacea, Oplismenus compositus, Parthenium hysterophorus,

Pogonatherum paniceum, Saccharum spontaneum and Thysanolaena latifolia.

Township area

The area possesses moderate level of infrastructural facilities. The township

being constructed near Barbatia village shall be permanent residence for the

project. About 100 numbers of staff/employees and CISF Staff will be residing at site

during operation phase of the project. NTPC has developed prefabricated bachelor and

office accommodation and other non-residential buildings for staff of NTPC, CISF,

Support Staff, etc. are under different stages of construction.

Fig 3.16 Power house




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Fig 3.17 Vegetation nearby township area

3.12.7 Methodology

Floral diversity

A comprehensive list of the plant species of the study area was made based on the plant

species collected during monsoon season by the survey teams. The species were further

separated in to trees, shrubs, climbers (perennials), herbaceous species, medicinal and

aquatic plants. These plants were identified with the help of Flora of Darjeeling

Himalayas and Foothills (Ghosh and Mallick, 2017) and eFloras (2014). For the purpose

of calculation of Importance Value Indices (IVI), quadrat sampling and line intercept

methods were used for estimation of frequency, density and cover. For determination of

frequency and density of herbaceous species, a nested quadrat of 1 m x 1 m was used. A

total of 25 quadrats from each sampling location (Table 3.29) were taken at random.

However, for calculating the frequency and density of different shrubs, 25 quadrats of 5m

x 5 m were used. For determination of the frequency and density of different trees 25

quadrats of 20m x 20m were taken. Density was calculated as the number per m2 in case

of herbaceous plants and as number per hectare in case of trees and tree like plants.




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The IVI values were calculated as the sum of relative frequency, relative density and

relative dominance (dominance was based on cover). Frequency, density, abundance, IVI

values and the indices of diversity of the plant species in the study area including the area

of submergence were determined basing on standard ecological methods (Curtis and Mc

Intosh, 1950) widely used in phytosociology as outlined hereunder:

Total number of quadrats in which a species occur Frequency = --------------------------------------------------------------------- × 100

Total number of quadrats studied

Total number of individuals of a species Density = -----------------------------------------------------------

Total number of quadrats studied

Total number of individuals of the species occurring Abundance = ---------------------------------------------------------------------

Total number of quadrats in which the species occur

Frequency of one species Relative frequency (RF) = --------------------------------------------------- × 100

Sum of all frequencies

Number of individuals of a species Relative density (RD) = ----------------------------------------------------- × 100

Total number of individuals of all species

Combined basal area of a single species Relative dominance (RDom) = --------------------------------------------------- × 100

Total basal area of all species

Importance Value Index (IVI) = RF + RD + RDom

Based on the IVI values, Shannon –Wiener Indices of Diversity and Simpson Index of

dominance were calculated by using a computer progamme called “PAST”. The data

collected were also used to compute community indices like species diversity (H') of

different tree species was calculated by using the Shannon- Weiner Index (Shannon and

Weiner, 1963), as such:




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H' = -Σ (ni/N)/ n (ni/N),

Where, ni/N, which denotes the importance probability of each species in a population,

ni= Importance of value of species and N is the total number of individuals of all species

in that vegetation type. Species dominance (Cd) was calculated following Simpson

(Simpson, 1949): Such that

Cd = Σ (ni/N)2,

Where, ni and N are the same as those for Shannon-Weiner information function.

Table 3.29

Details of sampling locations and number of quadrtas

S.No. Location Latitude Longitude No of quadrats 1 Salangdang 27° 7'1.71"N 88° 8'54.58"E 25

2 Kankiabang 27° 6'26.86"N 88° 8'31.84"E 25

3 Near Township area 27° 7'29.87"N 88°12'52.68"E 25

4 Karmi 27° 7'3.46"N 88°13'58.54"E 25

Faunal diversity

A linear transect of 1 km each was chosen for sampling at each site. Each transect was

trekked for 1.5 hr for the sampling of faunal diversity through following methods for

different categories. For the sampling of butterflies, the standard ‘Pollard walk’ method

was employed and all the species that could not be identified in the field were collected

using a butterfly net besides photographing them.

For bird’s sampling ‘point sampling’ along the fixed transects (foot trails) was carried out.

All the species of birds were observed through a binocular and identified with the help of

field guide book and photographs.

For sampling of mammals, direct count on open width (20m) transect was used. In

addition, information on recent sightings/records of mammals by the villagers/locals was

also collected. For carnivores, indirect sampling was carried out and the mammals wee

identified by foot marks, faeces and other marks/sign created by them. In case of reptiles

mainly lizards were sampled by direct count on open width transects.




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The study of fauna takes substantial amount of time to understand the specific faunal

characteristics of area. The assessment of fauna has been done by extensive field survey of

the area. During survey, the presence of wildlife was also inhabitants depending on animal

sightings and frequency of their visits in the project area which was later confirmed from

forest department, Wildlife department etc.

3.12.8 Secondary data collection

An extensive desktop review of available published literature (books, websites, scientific

papers, articles etc.) was conducted. The State Forest/ Working Plan were also referred

for secondary information. Additional information was sourced from the project

proponent, governmental institutions and local residents of the survey-area. The

secondary data was appropriately supplemented by a field survey for primary data

collection.

The species have been identified using relevant floras and standard literature such as

Carrying capacity study of Teesta Basin in Sikkim (MoEF&CC), Red data Book of

Indian Plants (Nayar and Shastry 2000). In course of the collection we came across

Rare, endangered and threatened species which have been included in the Red Data

Book of Indian Plants , CITES plants (www.bsienvis.org/citesplant), IUCN Red List

( https://www.iucnredlist.org/) of threatened species and several other papers from

the country. Other plants which have not been listed in the Red Data Book but are now

rare or endangered in the study area are also documented based on literature published by

BSI, ZSI and research articles. Rarity of species is determined by field study, visual

estimation, literature, herbaria and from discussions with the local forest officials.

The criterion for categorization of threatened species is based on the IUCN Redlist




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Fig 3.18 Terrestrial ecology sampling locations




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3.12.9 Floristic composition

The study area is totally forested area such as villages, Tea gardens and forest areas.

Vegetation is semi evergreen, moist deciduous and riverine forest in condition,

composition and density. Dependence of villagers on natural vegetation in hits region is

more for timber and medicinal plants. During primary and secondary study carried out

under present project, a total 695 plant species observed including 256 tree species, 104

shrubs, 104 climbers, 202 herbs, 17 grasses, 4 sedges and 7 species of ferns were

recorded from the study area. The total list of the plant species for command as well as 10

km study area observed in the study area is given Table 3.30

Table 3.30

Flora recorded in the study area

S.No. Botanical name Local name Family Habit

1 Abroma augusta (L.) L. f. Ulatkamal Sterculiaceae Shrub

2 Abrus pulchellus Thwaites Fabaceae Climber

3 Acacia catechu (L. f.) Willd. Khayar Mimosoideae Tree

4 Acacia pennata (L.) Willd. Arkhu Mimosoideae Climber

5 Acampe papillosa (Lindl.) Lindl. Orchidaceae Herb

6 Acer campbelli Hook.f. & T. ex Hiern Kapasi Santalaceae Tree

7 Acer sterculiaceum Wall. Melo Kapasi Sapindaceae Tree

8 Achyranthes aspera L. Apamarg Amaranthaceae Herb

9 Achyranthes bidentata Blume Rato Apamarg Amaranthaceae Herb

10 Acmella calva (D.C.) Jansen. Kalijhar Asteraceae Herb

11 Acmella paniculata (Wall.ex DC) R.K.Jans.

Lato Jhar Asteraceae Herb

12 Aconogonom molle (D.Don)Hara Thotne Polygonaceae Climber

13 Acorus calamus L. Bojho Araceae Herb

14 Acrocarpus fraxinifolius Arnott. Mandane Fabaceae Tree

15 Actinidia callosa Lindl. Theki Phal Actinidiaceae Climber

16 Actinodaphne obovata (Nees)Blume Runche pat Lauraceae Tree

17 Actinodaphne angustifolia Nees Petarichewa Lauraceae Tree

18 Actinodaphne sikkimensis Meisn. Lauraceae Tree

19 Adiantum lunulatum Burm. Adiantaceae Herb

20 Adiantum philippense Linnaeus Adiantaceae Herb

21 Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa Bael Rubiaceae Tree




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22 Aerides odorata Loureiro. Orchidaceae Herb

23 Aerva javanica Juss. ex Schult. Kapok bush Amaranthaceae Herb

24 Aeschynanthus acuminatus Wall .ex A.DC.

Gesneriaceae Herb

25 Aeschynanthus hookeri C.B. Clarke Gesneriaceae Herb

26 Aeschynanthus novogracilisW.T.Wang Nilgiri Blushwort Gesneriaceae Herb

27 Aeschynanthus parviflorus (D.Don) Spreng.

Thirjo Gesneriaceae Herb

28 Agapetes serpens(Wight) Sleumer Khorsane Ericaceae Shrub

29 Ageratina adenophora (Sprengel) R.M.King &H.Rob.

Kalo Banmara Asteraceae Shrub

30 Ageratum conyzoides L. Ilame Jhar Asteraceae Herb

31 Ageratum houstonianum Miller Asteraceae Herb

32 Aglaia chittagonga Miq. Meliaceae Tree

33 Ailanthus excelsa Roxb. Gokul Simaroubaceae Tree

34 Ailanthus integrifolia Lam. Saragphula Simaroubaceae Tree

35 Alangium salvifolium (L. F.) Wangerin Asare Alanginaceae Tree

36 Alangium chinense (Lour.) Harms Phir Phire Alanginaceae Tree

37 Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. Kalo siris Fabaceae Tree

38 Albizia procera (Roxb.) Benth. Seto Siris Fabaceae Tree

39 Albizia odoratissima (L.f.) Benth. Kalo shirish Fabaceae Tree

40 Allium wallichii Kunth. Ban lasun Amyrallidaceae Herb

41 Alnus nepalensis D.Don. Utis Betulaceae Tree

42 Aloe barbadensis Miller. Chal-kuori Liliaceae Climber

43 Alseodaphne owdenii R.Parker Tilkhundi Lauraceae Tree

44 Alsophila glaucas (Sw.)Urb. Rukh unio Cyatheacea Fern

45 Alstonia scholaris (L.)R.Br. Chatiwan Apocynaceae Tree

46 Alternanthera sessile (L.) DC. Saranchi saag Amaranthaceae Herb

47 Amaranthus lividus L. Latte saag Amaranthaceae Herb

48 Amaranthus spinosus L. Lude saag Amaranthaceae Herb

49 Amaranthus viridus L. Lude saag Amaranthaceae Herb

50 Amomum dealbatum Roxb. Churumpha Zingiberaceae Shrub

51 Amomum subulatum Roxb. Alaichi Zingiberaceae Herb

52 Ampelocissus barbata (Wall.) Planchon.

Jarila laha Vitaceae Climber

53 Anaphalis contorta (D. Don) Hook.f. Bukiphul Asteraceae Herb

54 Anaphalis margaritacea (L.)Benth & Hook.f.

Indian Cudweed Asteraceae Herb




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55 Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Ness.

ankuri phul Acanthaceae Herb

56 Angiopteris evecta (G.Forst.) Hoffm. Gaikhurae Marratiaceae Fern

57 Anisomeles indica (L.) Kuntze Rato Charpate Lamiaceae Herb

58 Anthogonium gracile Wall ex Lindl. Lei-nauban Orchidaceae Herb

59 Antidesma acidum Retzium. Archal Euphorbiaceae Shrub

60 Aphanamixis polystachya (Wall.) R.N.Parker

Lhasunae Meliaceae Tree

61 Aporosa octandra (Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don) Vickery

Bor heloch Phyllanthaceae Tree

62 Aralia gigantea J. Wen. Chindey Araliaceae Climber

63 Aralia leschenaultii (DC.) J. Wen. Chinde Araliaceae Tree

64 Archidendron clypearia (Jack) I.C.Nielsen

Rhasahu Leguminosae Tree

65 Ardisia macrocarpaWall. Damai phal Primulaceae Shrub

66 Ardisia solanacea Roxburgh Myrsinaceae Shrub

67 Argyreia hookeri Clarke Convolvulaceae Climber

68 Argyreia roxburghii Choisy Convolvulaceae Climber

69 Arisaema nepenthoides (Wall.)Mart. ex Schott

Tuwa Araceae Herb

70 Arisaema tortuosum (Wall.) Schott Toa Araceae Herb

71 Aristolochia saccata Wall Sanghar-vaibel Aristolochiaceae Shrub

72 Artemisia dubia Wall. ex Besser. Titepati Asteraceae Herb

73 Artemisia indica Willd. Titepati Asteraceae Shrub

74 Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamarck. Rukh Moraceae Tree

75 Artocarpus lacucha Buch-Ham. Badar Moraceae Tree

76 Arundinaria intermedia Munro Malingo Poaceae Grass

77 Arundinaria maling Gamble Malingo Poaceae Grass

78 Asparagus racemosus Willd. Kurilo Liliaceae Herb

79 Asparagus officinalis L. Kurilo Asperagaceae Climber

80 Astilbe rivularis Buch-Ham. ex D.Don Buro okhati Saxifragaceae Shrub

81 Asystasia macrocarpa Nees Obul-oing Acanthacea Shrub

82 Azadirachta indica Juss. Neem Meliaceae Tree

83 Baccaurea ramiflora Lour. Kusum Phyllanthaceae Tree

84 Bambusa nutans Wallich Poaceae Shrub

85 Bambusa tulda Roxb. Katta bans Poaceae Shrub

86 Bauhinia purpurea L. Tanki Fabaceae Tree

87 Bauhinia vahlii Wight & Arnott. Bharla Fabaceae Climber




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88 Bauhinia variegata L. Koirala Fabaceae Tree

89 Beaumontia grandiflora Wall. Chimale lahara Apocynaceae Climber

90 Begonia cathcartii Hook. f. D. Don. Dieng Jajew Begoniaceae Herb

91 Begonia dioica Buch._Ham. Ex D.Don Mangarkanche Begoniaceae Herb

92 Begonia hatacoa D. Don Begoniaceae Herb

93 Begonia picta Sm. Magarkache Begoniaceae Herb

94 Begonia rubella Buch._Ham. Ex D.Don Magar kanche Begoniaceae Herb

95 Beilschmiedia clarkei Hook.f. Tarsing Lauraceae Tree

96 Beilschmiedia roxburghiana Nees Thulo Tarsing Lauraceae Tree

97 Beilschmiedia dalzellii (Meisn.) Kosterm.

Lauraceae Tree

98 Belamcanda chinensis (L.) DC. Tarware phool Iridaceae Herb

99 Bergenia ciliata (Haworth) Sternberg. Pakhen bet Saxifragaceae Herb

100 Betula alnoides Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don Saur Betulaceae Tree

101 Bidens pilosa L. Kalo Kuro Asteraceae Herb

102 Biophytum reinwardtii (Zuccarini) Klotzsch

Oxalidaceae Herb

103 Bischofia javanica Blume Kainjal Phyllanthaceae Tree

104 Boehmeria macrophylla Hornemann Urticaceae Herb

105 Boehmeria rugulosa Weddell Dar Urticaceae Tree

106 Boehmeria ternifolia D. Don Chalnu sisnu Urticaceae Herb

107 Boenninghausenia albiflora (Hook.) Reichb. ex Meisn.

Ankuree Rutaceae Herb

108 Bombax ceiba L. Simal Malvaceae Tree

109 Brassaiopsis glomerulata (Blume) Reg. Kalo Chuletro Araliaceae Shrub

110 Brassaiopsis hainla (Buch.-Ham. Ex D.Don) Seem

Seto Chuletro Araliaceae Shrub

111 Brassaiopsis hispida Seem Putta Araliaceae Shrub

112 Brassaiopsis mitis C.B.Clarke Chuletro/Phutta Araliaceae Tree

113 Bridelea retusa (L.) Juss. Gayo lahara Phyllanthaceae Climber

114 Bridelia stipularis (L.) Blume Gayo lahara Euphorbiaceae Climber

115 Bridelia sikkimensis Gehrm. Phyllanthaceae Tree

116 Bryonopsis laciniosa (L.) Naud. The bryony Cucurbitaceae Climber

117 Buchanania lanzan Spreng. Charoli Anacardiaceae Tree

118 Buddleja asiatica Loureiro. Karukattaan Buddlejaceae Climber

119 Butea parviflora Roxb. Dhak Papillionoideae Climber

120 Caesalpinia cucullata Roxb. Boksi Kara Fabaceae Climber




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121 Calamus erectus Roxb. Phyakre Areceae Tree

122 Calamus latifolius Roxb. Phekre Bet Arecaceae Climber

123 Calamus tenuis Roxb. Kukhre bet Arecaceae Climber

124 Callicarpa arborea Roxb. Guenlo Verbenaceae Tree

125 Callicarpa vestita Wall. Ex C.B.Clarke Guenlo Verbenaceae Tree

126 Calophyllum polyanthum Wall. Ex Choisy

Rate Clausiaceae Tree

127 Calotropis gigantea (L.) Dryander. Aank Asclepiadaceae Shrub

128 Canarium sikkimense King. Gokul Dhup Burseraceae Tree

129 Cannabis sativa L. Phul tarul Cannabiaceae Shrub

130 Capillipedium assimile (Steudel) A. Camus

Poaceae Grass

131 Carex baccans Nees ex Wight Harkatta Cyperaceae Sedge

132 Carex filicina Nees Harkatta Cyperaceae Sedge

133 Careya arborea Roxb. Kumbh Lecythidaceae Tree

134 Caryota urens L. Rangbhang Arecaceae Tree

135 Casearia glomerata Roxb. Barkaulae Salicaceae Tree

136 Casearia tomentosa Roxb. Saptrangi Salicaceae Tree

137 Casearia vareca Roxb. Salicaceae Tree

138 Cassia fistula L. Amaltas Caesalpinoideae Tree

139 Castanopsis hystrix Hook f & Thomson Jat/Patle Katus Fagaceae Tree

140 Castanopsis indica (Roxb.exLindley) A.de Cand.

Dhalnae Katus Fagaceae Tree

141 Castanopsis tribuloides (Sm.) A. DC. Musre katus Fagaceae Tree

142 Castanopsis lanceifolia (Oerst.) Hickel & A.Camus

Serang Fagaceae Tree

143 Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don. Nayantara Apocynaceae Herb

144 Catunaregam spinosa (Thunb.) Tirveng.

Maidal Rubiaceae Shrub

145 Cautleya gracilis (Sm).Dandy Zingiberaceae Herb

146 Cayratia trifolia (L.) Domin. Amalbel Vitaceae Climber

147 Celtis tetranda Roxb. Khari Ulmaceae Tree

148 Celtis timorensis Span Khari Ulmaceae Tree

149 Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. Athane Jhar Apiaceae Herb

150 Cephaelis ipecacuanha(Brot.) A. Rich. Rubiaceae Shrub

151 Cephalostachyum capitatium Munro Gope/ Dallo Bans Poaceae Grass

152 Chamabainia cuspidata Wight Urticaceae Herb




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153 Chenopodium album L. Bethu saag Chenopodiacee Herb

154 Choerospondias axillaris (Roxb.) B. L. Burtt and A. W. Hill

Lapsi Anacardiaceae Tree

155 Chromolaena odorata (L.) R.M.King & H.Rob.

Aula Banmara Asteraceae Herb

156 Chukrasia tabularis A. Juss. Chekrasi Meliaceae Tree

157 Cinchona succirubra Pavon ex Klotz. Rubiaceae Tree

158 Cinnamomum bejolghota (Buch.- Ham.) Sweet

Bahale Sinkowli Lauraceae Tree

159 Cinnamomum glanduliferum (Wall.) Meissner

Malagiri Lauraceae Tree

160 Cinnamomum tamala (Buch.-Ham.) Nees & Eberm.

Sinkowli/Tejpata Lauraceae Tree

161 Cinnamomum glaucescens (Nees) Hand.-Mazz.

Sugandhakokila Lauraceae Tree

162 Cinnmomum impressinerviun Meisn. Sissi Lauraceae Tree

163 Cissampelos pareira L. Tamarke/Batulpate Menipermaceae Climber

164 Citrus medica L. Bimbira Rutaceae Tree

165 Cleidion javanicum Blume Palapkung Euphorbiaceae Tree

166 Cleistocalyx operculatus (Roxb.) Merr and Perry

Kyamuna Myrtaceae Tree

167 Clematis buchnaniana DC. Pinase Lahara Menispermaceae Climber

168 Clematis acuminata DC. Pinase Lahara Menispermaceae Climber

169 Clerodendrum infortunatum L. Bhante Verbenaceae Shrub

170 Clerodendrum serratum (L.) Moon. Chitu Verbenaceae Shrub

171 Coelogyne ovalis Lindl. Orchidaceae Herb

172 Colebrookea oppositifolia Sm. Dosul Lamiaceae Herb

173 Colocasia affinis Schott Ban piralu Araceae Herb

174 Combretum album Pers. Thakauli/Seti Lahara

Combretaceae Climber

175 Combretum decandrum Jacq. Kali-lara Combretaceae Climber

176 Commelina suffruticosa Blume Commelinaceae Sedge

177 Compylandra aurantiaca Baker Nakima Liliaceae Herb

178 Cordia myxa L. Bohri Boraginaceae Tree

179 Cordia dichotoma G.Forst. Nimat-kung Boraginaceae Tree

180 Cornus capitata Wall. Ex Roxb. Bamora Cornaceae Tree

181 Costus speciosus Koen. ex Retz. Smith. Betlouree Zingiberaceae Herb

182 Crassocephalum crepidioides (Bentham) S. Moore

Asteraceae Herb




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183 Croton caudatus Geis. Supare Lahara Euphorbiaceae Climber

184 Cryptocarya amygdalinaNees Patpatae Lauraceae Tree

185 Cryptomeria japonica (L.f.) D.Don. Dhupi Taxodiaceae Tree

186 Cupressus cashmeriana Carriere Kasmiri Dhupi Cupressaceae Tree

187 Curcuma aromatica Salisbury. Banhaldi Zingiberaceae Herb

188 Curcuma longa L. Haldi Zingiberaceae Herb

189 Curcuma zedoaria (Berg.) Rosc. Kochura Zingiberaceae Herb

190 Cuscuta reflexa Roxb. Akashi-lata Cuscutaceae Climber

191 Cyanotis vaga (Lour.) J.A & J.H.Sc. Commelinaceae Herb

192 Cyanthillium cinereum (L.) H.Rob. Cineria Asteraceae Herb

193 Cyathea brunoniana (Wall.ex Hook.) Clarke & Baker

Rukh unio Cyatheacea Fern

194 Cyathea spinulosa Wall ex Hook Rukh unio Cyatheacea Fern

195 Cyclea bicristata (Griffith) Diels Menispermaceae Climber

196 Cymbidium aloifolium (L.) Sw. Mota-kopou-phul Orchidaceae Herb

197 Cymbopogon citratus Stapf. Lemon grass Poaceae Herb

198 Cynadon dactylon (L.) Pers. Dubo Poaceae Grass

199 Cyperus cyperoides (Retzius) O. Kuntze

Cyperaceae Sedge

200 Dactylicapnos scandens (D.Don.) Hutch.

Mutu Jhar Papaveraceae Herb

201 Dalbergia stipulacea Roxb. Lahare Siris Fabaceae Climber

202 Dalbergia volubilis Roxb. Bar medeluwaa Fabaceae Climber

203 Daphne bholua D. Don. Thymelaeaceae Shrub

204 Daphne papyraceae Wall. Ex G.Don Lokoti Thymelaeceae Shrub

205 Daphne sureil W.W.Sm.& Cave Thymelaeceae Shrub

206 Daphniphyllum himalayense (Benth.) Mull.

Lal or Rakta chandan

Daphniphyllaceae Tree

207 Debregeasia longifolia (Burman f.) Weddell

Tusarae Urticaceae Tree

208 Dendrobium nobile Lindl. Orchidaceae Herb

209 Dendrocalamus hamiltoniiNees & Arn.ex Munro

Choya Bans Poaceae Grass

210 Dendrocnide sinuata (Blume) Chew Morngay Urticaceae Shrub

211 Dendrophthoe falcata (L. f.) Etting. Banda Loranthaceae Shrub

212 Desdmodium heterocarpon (Linnaeus) DC.

Fabaceae Shrub

213 Dicentra scandens (D. Don) Walpers. Mutu jhar Fumariaceae Climber

214 Dichroa febrifuga Lour. Basak Hydrangeaceae Shrub




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215 Dichrocephala integrifolia (L.f.) Kuntze

Hadchun Jhar Asteraceae Herb

216 Dicliptera bupleuroides Nees Acanthaceae Herb

217 Didymocarpus aromaticus Wall. ex D. Don.

Gesneriaceae Herb

218 Digitalis purpurea L. Jhandi phool Scrophularaceae Herb

219 Dillenia indica L. Panchphale Dilleniaceae Tree

220 Dillenia pentagyna Roxb. Tatri Dilleniaceae Tree

221 Dioscorea alata L. Ghartarul Dioscoreaceae Climber

222 Dioscorea belophylla (Prain)Voigit ex Haines

Tarul Dioscoreceae Climber

223 Dioscorea bulbifera L. Githa/Ban Tarul Dioscoreaceae Climber

224 Dioscorea deltoidea Wall.ex Griseb. Kukur tarul Dioscoreaceae Climber

225 Dioscorea hamiltonii Hook.f. Ban tarul Dioscoreace Climber

226 Dioscorea hispida Dennstedt Dioscoreaceae Climber

227 Dioscorea pentaphylla L. Bhyagur Dioscoreaceae Climber

228 Diplazium esculentum (Retzius) Swart Saune niuro Athyriaceae Herb

229 Diplazium maximum(D. Don) C. Chr. Danthe niuro Athyriaceae Herb

230 Diploknema butyracea (Roxb.) Baehni Chiuri Sapotaceae Tree

231 Dobinea vulgaris Buch. Ham.ex D.Don Sangli phul Anacardiaceae Shrub

232 Dolichos biflorus L. Fabaceae Herb

233 Drimycarpus racemosus (Roxb.) Hook.f. ex Marchand.

Kagi Anacardiaceae Tree

234 Drymaria cordata Willd. Avijal Caryophyllaceae Herb

235 Drymaria villosa Cham .& Schl. Abhijal Caryophylaceae Herb

236 Dryopteris cochleata (D. Don) C. Chr. Danthe niuro Dryopteridaceae Herb

237 Dryopteris sikkimensis (Beddome) O. Kuntze

Dryopteridaceae Herb

238 Duabanga grandiflora (Roxb.ex DC.)Walpers.

Lampatae Lythraceae Tree

239 Duchesna indica(Andrews) Focke Bhui Aiselu Rosaceae Herb

240 Dysoxylum binectariferum (Roxb.) Hook.f. ex Bedd.

Lhasune Meliaceae Tree

241 Dysoxylum excelsum Blume Lhasune Meliaceae Tree

242 Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. Bhringraj Asteraceae Herb

243 Edgeworthia gardneri(Wall.) Meissn. Argeli Thymelaeceae Shrub

244 Elaeagnus infundibularis Momiy. Malledo Elaeagnaceae Shrub

245 Elaeocarpus lanceifolius Roxb. Bhadrasae Elaeocarpaceae Tree

246 Elaeocarpus sikkimensis Mast. Bhadrasae Elaeocarpaceae Tree




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247 Elaeocarpus sphaericus (Gaertn.) Schumann.

Jalpai Elaeocarpaceae Tree

248 Elaeocarpus varunua Buch._ Ham. Bhadrasae Elaeocarpaceae Tree

249 Elaeocarpus rugosus Roxb. ex G.Don Nandiki Elaeocarpaceae Tree

250 Elatostema lineolatum Wight Urticaceae Herb

251 Elatostema platyphyllum Wedd. Gagleto Urticaceae Herb

252 Elatostema reptans Hook.f. Gagleto Urticaceae Herb

253 Elatostema sessile Forster Gagleto Urticaceae Herb

254 Elephantopus scaber Linnaeus Asteraceae Herb

255 Elsholtzia blanda (Benth.) Benth. Mrigay-jhar Lamiaceae Herb

256 Elsholtzia strobilifera (Benth.) Benth. Ban Babri Lamiaceae Herb

257 Emelia sonchifolia (Linnaeus) DC. Asteraceae Herb

258 Endospermum chinense Benth Seti Kath Euphorbiaceae Tree

259 Engelhardtia spicata Lesch.ex Blume Mauwa Juglandaceae Tree

260 Entada phaseoloides (L.) Merr. Pangra Fabaceae Climber

261 Entada rheedii Sprengel. Tahlakhyam Mimosoideae Climber

262 Entada gigas (L.) Fawc. & Rendle Pangra Fabaceae Climber

263 Equisetum debile Roxb.ex Voucher Kurkure Jhar Equisetaceae Fern

264 Eranthemum indicum (Nees) C.B.Clarke

Seto Chuwa Acanthaceae Herb

265 Erigeron bellidioides DC. Tare phul Asteraceae Herb

266 Eriobotrya petiolata Hook.f. Maya Rosaceae Tree

267 Eryngium foetidum L. Bhote dhania Apiaceae Herb

268 Erythrina stricta Roxb. Phaledo Fabaceae Tree

269 Eugenia kurzii Duthie Ambakey Myrtaceae Tree

270 Eugeniabracteata Rich. Nyasey Myrtaceae Shrub

271 Euphorbia hirta L. Pusidudh Euphorbiaceae Herb

272 Eurya acuminata DC. Sanu Jhiganae Theaceae Tree

273 Eurya japonica Thunb. Jhigni Theaceae Tree

274 Evodia fraxinifolia (D. Don) Hook.f. Khanakpa Rutaceae Tree

275 Exbucklandia populnea (R.Br.ex Griff.) R.W.Br.

Pipli Hamamelidaceae Tree

276 Fagopyrum dibotrys (D. Don) H. Hara Tite phapar Polygonaceae Herb

277 Fagopyrum esculentum Moench. Fapar Polygonaceae Herb

278 Ficus auriculata Lour. Nevara Moraceae Tree

279 Ficus benjamina L. var. comosa Swami Moraceae Tree

280 Ficus clavata Wall. Ex Miq. Lutey Khanew Moraceae Tree




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281 Ficus hirta Vahl. Khasreto Moraceae Tree

282 Ficus hispida L.F. Khasre Moraceae Tree

283 Ficus hookeriana Corner Nebara Moraceae Tree

284 Ficus lacor Buch.- Ham. Kavra Moraceae Tree

285 Ficus neriifolia J.E.Smith Dudhilo Moraceae Tree

286 Ficus pubigera Miquel Dude Lahara Moraceae Climber

287 Ficus racemosa L. Dumri Moraceae Tree

288 Ficus sabincisa J.E.Smith Lutae Khanium Moraceae Shrub

289 Ficus semicordata Buch.-Ham. ex Sm Khasre Khaneu Moraceae Tree

290 Firmiana colorata (Roxb.) R.Br. Samarri pisi Malvaceae Tree

291 Flemingia stricta Roxburgh Fabaceae Shrub

292 Flueggea virosa (Willdenow) Voigt Euphorbiaceae Shrub

293 Fragaria nubicola (Lindl. Ex Hook.f.) Lac.

Bhuin Aselu Rosaceae Herb

294 Fraxinus floribunda Wall. Lankuri Oleaceae Tree

295 Galinsoga parviflora Cavanilles Asteraceae Herb

296 Gallium elgans Wall. Ex Roxb. Lahare Kuro Rubiaceae Herb

297 Gamblea ciliata C.B.Clarke Kursimla Araliaceae Tree

298 Garcinia cornea L. Chunyel Clusiaceae Shrub

299 Garcinia cowa Roxb. ex DC. Kaphal Clusiaceae Tree

300 Garcinia stipulata T.Anderson Sanakadan kung Clusiaceae Tree

301 Garuga floribunda Decne. Dabdabe Burseraceae Tree

302 Garuga pinnata Roxb. Dabdabe Burseraceae Tree

303 Gaultheria fragrantissima Wall. Patpate Ericaceae Tree

304 Geodorum densiflorum (Lam.) Schltr. Orchidaceae Herb

305 Geranium nepalenseEdgew.&Hook.f. Jerenium Geraniaceae Herb

306 Girardiana diversifolia (Link) Friis Bhangre sisnu Urticaceae Shrub

307 Gleichenia gigantea Wall.exHook. Kalame uneo Gleicheneaceae Fern

308 Globba racemosa Smith Zingiberaceae Herb

309 Glochidion acuminatum Mull. Lati Kath Phyllanthaceae Tree

310 Gloriosa superba L. Bishalanguli Liliaceae Herb

311 Gmelina arborea Roxb. Kasnar Verbenaceae Tree

312 Gonostegia hirta (Blume ex Hassk.) Miq.

Chiple Urticaceae Herb

313 Gordonia dipterosperma Kurz. Hinguwa Theaceae Tree

314 Gordonia excelsa (Blume) Blume Theaceae Tree

315 Grewia sapida Roxb.ex DC. Kuail Malvaceae Shrub

316 Grewia eriocarpa Juss. Fuhura Malvaceae Shrub




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317 Grewia optiva J.R.Drumm. ex Burret Bauel Malvaceae Tree

318 Grewia serrulata DC. Malvaceae Tree

319 Guizotia abyssinica (L.f.) Cass Philunge Asteraceae Herb

320 Gynocordia ordorota R.Br. Gante/Bandare Flacourtiaceae Tree

321 Gynura cusimbua (D.Don)S.Moore Asteraceae Shrub

322 Haldina cordifolia (Roxb.) Ridsdale Karam Rubiaceae Tree

323 Hedychium coccineum Buch.-Ham ex Sm.

Sara Zingirberaceae Herb

324 Hedychium coronarium Koen. Pankha Phool Zingiberaceae Herb

325 Hedychium ellipticum Buch.-Ham ex Sm.

Rato Sara Zingirberaceae Herb

326 Hedyotis scandens Roxb. Bakhra Kanae Rubiaceae Climber

327 Helicia nilgerica Bedd. Bandare Proteaceae Tree

328 Helixanthera ligustrina(Wall.)Danser Aijaru Loranthaceae Shrub

329 Helixanthera parasitica Lour.(Wall.) Sanu Aijaru Loranthaceae Shrub

330 Helwingia himalaica Hook.f.&T. exC.B.Clarke

Pipli Hamamelidaceae Shrub

331 Hemiphragma heterophyllum Wall. Nashe/Lalgeri Jhar Scrophulariaceae Herb

332 Heracleum nepalense D. Don. Chimphing Apiaceae Herb

333 Heracleum wallichii DC Chimphing Apiaceae Herb

334 Herpetospermum pedunculosum (Ser.) C.B. Clarke

Jungali Ghiraula Cucurbitaceae Climber

335 Heteropanax fragrans Seeman. Lal Totola Araliaceae Tree

336 Heynea trijuga Roxb. ex Sims Akhaterwa Meliaceae Tree

337 Himalayacalamus hookerianus (Munro) Stapl.

Pareng Bans Poaceae Grass

338 Hiptage benghalensis (L.) Kurz Shempati Malpighiaceae Climber

339 Hodgsonia heteroclita Hook.f. and Thomson

Ghiuphal Cucurbitaceae Climber

340 Holarrhena pubescens Wall. ex G.Don Madhese Khirro Apocynaceae Tree

341 Holboellia angustifolia Wall. Gufla Lardizabalaceae Climber

342 Holboellia latifolia Wall. Golpha Lardizabalaceae Climber

343 Horsfieldia kingii (J. D. Hooker) Warburg

Ramguwa Myristicaceae Tree

344 Houttuynia cordata Thunb. Gande jhar Saururaceae Herb

345 Hoya parasitica (Roxb.)Wall.ex Wight Asclepiadaceae Climber

346 Hydrangea aspera D.Don Phirphire ghans Hydrangeaceae Shrub

347 Hydrocotyl himalaica P.K.Mukh. Golpatta Umbelliferae Herb

348 Hydrocotyl javanica Thunb. Dhungrijhar Umbelliferae Herb




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349 Hymenodictyon orixense (Roxb.) Mabb. Latikaram Rubiaceae Tree

350 Hypericum uralum Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don.

Urillo Hypericaceae Shrub

351 Impatiens bicornuta Wall. Tiuri Balsaminaceae Herb

352 Impatiens trilobata Colebrooke Balsaminaceae Herb

353 Imperata cylindrica (L.) Reauschel. Siru Poaceae Herb

354 Iris clarkei Baker ex Hook. f. Iridaceae Herb

355 Isachne globosa (Thunberg) O. Kuntze Poaceae Grass

356 Ixora undulata Roxb. Takchirnyok Rubiaceae Shrub

357 Jasminum elongatum (Berg.) Willd. Jasmin Oleaceae Shrub

358 Jasminum nepalense Sprengel Oleaceae Climber

359 Jasminum scandens (Retz.) Vahl. Hade lahara Oleaceae Climber

360 Jatropha curcas L. Bhernada Euphorbiaceae Shrub

361 Juglans regia L. Okhar Juglandaceae Tree

362 Justicia adhatoda L. Basak Acanthaceae Shrub

363 Kaempferia rotunda L. Vuinchampa Zingiberaceae Herb

364 Knema erratica (Hook. f. & Thomson) J. Sinclair

Ramguwa Myristicaceae Tree

365 Kydia calycina Roxb. Kubinde Malvaceae Tree

366 Lagerstroemia hirsuta (Lamarck) Willd.

Lythraceae Tree

367 Lagerstroemia parvifloraRoxb. Sida Lythraceae Tree

368 Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers. Jarul Lythraceae Tree

369 Lannea coromandelica (Houtt.) Merr. Doka Anacardiaceae Tree

370 Lantana camara Linnaeus Verbenaceae Shrub

371 Laportea terminalis Wight. Patle sisnu Urticaceae Shrub

372 Lasiococca symphyllifolia (Kurz) Hook.f.

Jagrikat Euphorbiaceae Tree

373 Leea asiatica (L.)Rid. Galeni Leeaceae Shrub

374 Lepidagathis incurva Buchanon-Hamilton ex D. Don

Acanthaceae Herb

375 Lepidium sativum L. Changsur Brassicaceae Herb

376 Leucosceptrum canum Sm. Gurpis Lamiaceae Shrub

377 Lindera neesiana (Wall ex Nees) Kurz. Siltimbur Lauraceae Tree

378 Lithocarpus elegans (Blume) Soep Arkawlo Fagaceae Tree




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379 Lithocarpus fenestratus (Roxb.) Rehder Arkawlo Fagaceae Tree

380 Lithocarpus pachyphylla (Kurz.) Rehder.

Bante/Sungure katus

Fagaceae Tree

381 Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers. Siltimbur Lauraceae Tree

382 Litsea hookeri (Meisn.D.G. DudheLampatae Lauraceae Tree

383 Litsea lancifolia (Roxb.ex Nees) Benth.& Hook.f.

Kali pahenle Lauraceae Tree

384 Litsea monopetala (Roxb.)Pers. Kutmero Lauraceae Tree

385 Litsea salicifolia (Wall.exNees) Hook.f. Sano Pahalae Lauraceae Tree

386 Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) C.B.Rob. Suppatnyok Lauraceae Tree

387 Lycopodium clavatum L. Nagbeli Lycopodiaceace Climber

388 Lycopodium japonicum Thumb. Naagbeli Solanaceae Herb

389 Lygodium alatum (Clarke) V.A.V.R. Bahun Lahara Lygodioceae Climber

390 Lygodium flexosum (L.)Sw. Parawa andri Schizaeaceae Climber

391 Lygodium japonicum (Thunb.)Sw. Parawa andri Schizaeaceae Climber

392 Lyonia ovalifolia (Wall.) Drude. Angeri Ericaceae Tree

393 Macaranga denticulata(Blume)Mull. Jogi Malata Euphorbiaceae Tree

394 Macaranga indicaWight Rani Malata Euphorbiaceae Tree

395 Macaranga peltata (Geis.) Mull. Malata Euphorbiaceae Tree

396 Macaranga roxburghianus Mull. Phusre Malata Euphorbiaceae Shrub

397 Machilus edulis King ex Hook.f. Lapche Kawlo/Pumsi

Lauraceae Tree

398 Machilus gammieana King ex Hook.f. Chiple Kawlo Lauraceae Tree

399 Machilus glaucescens (Nees)Wight Bhainsi Kawlo Lauraceae Tree

400 Maclura cochinchinensis (Lour.) Corner

Bhale phul Moraceae Shrub

401 Macropanax dispermus (Wallich ex G. Don) Seemann

Chinde Araliaceae Tree

402 Maesa chisia Buch-Ham ex D. Don Bilaunae Myrsinaceae Shrub

403 Maesa indica (Roxb.)A.de Candolle Kalo Bilaunae Myrsinaceae Shrub

404 Maesa macrophylla (Wallich) A.DC. Myrsinaceae

405 Magnolia cathcartii (Hook.f.& T.) Noot.

Tite champ Magnoliaceae Tree

406 Magnolia doltsopa (Buch.-Ham. Ex DC.) Figlar

Rani/Mithe Champ Magnoliaceae Tree

407 Magnolia hodgsonii (Hook.f.&T.) H.Keng

Patpate Magnoliaceae Tree

408 Magnolia lanuginosa (Wall.) Figlar & Noot

Phusre Champ Magnoliaceae Tree

409 Magnolia pterocarpa Roxb. Gogay champ Magnoliaceae Tree

410 Mahonia nepaulensis DC. Mandre chutro Berberidaceae Tree




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411 Mallotus nudiflorus (L.) Kuju Pitali Euphorbiaceae Tree

412 Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Muller Sindure Euphorbiaceae Tree

413 Mangifera sylvatica Roxb. Chuche Anp Anacardiaceae Tree

414 Mazus surculosus D.Don Malati Jhar Scrophulariaceae Herb

415 Melastoma malabathricum L. Angeree Melastomataceae Shrub

416 Melocana baccifera (Roxb.) Kurz Philing bans Poaceae Grass

417 Mentha arvensis L. Pudina Lamiaceae Herb

418 Mesia montana A.DC. Kalo Bilaunae Myrsinaceae Shrub

419 Meyna spinosa Link Rubiaceae Shrub

420 Michelia champaca (L.) Bail. Ex Pierre Aule Champ Magnoliaceae Tree

421 Mikania micrantha Kunth Asteraceae Climber

422 Millettia extensa (Benth.) Baker Gonjo Leguminosae Climber

423 Millettia pachycarpa Benth. Kojulara Leguminosae Climber

424 Mimosa himalayana Gamble Ararae kanra Fabaceae Climber

425 Mimosa pudica L. Lajwanti Mimosaceae Herb

426 Momordica dioica Roxb. Chetheli Cucurbitaceae Climber

427 Morinda angustifolia Roxb. Hardi Kath Rubiaceae Shrub

428 Moringa oleifera Lam. Sajana Moringaceae Tree

429 Morus macroura Miquel Kimbu Moraceae Tree

430 Morusaustralis Poir. Singtok Moraceae Tree

431 Mucuna macrocarpa Wall. Baldengra Fabaceae Climber

432 Mucuna nigricans (Lour.) Steudel. Baldengra Papilionoideae Climber

433 Mucuna pruriens (L) DC Kaoucho Fabaceae Climber

434 Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack. Kamini Rutaceae Tree

435 Musa balbisiana Colla. Bankera Musaceae Herb

436 Musa thompsonii (King ex Schu.) Cowan & Cowan

Ban Kera Musaceae Herb

437 Myrica esculenta Buch.- Ham.ex D. Don

Kaphal Myricaceae Tree

438 Myrsine semiserrata Wall. Bilauni Primulaceae Shrub

439 Nasturtium officinale W. T. Aiton Simrayo Brassicaceae Herb

440 Natsiatum herpeticum Buch.-Ham. Ex Arn.

Seti Lahara Icacinaceae Climber

441 Nayariophyton zizyphifolium (Griff.) D.G. Long & A.G. Mill.

Kubinde Malvaceae Tree

442 Neolamarckia cadamba (Roxb.) Bosser Kadam Rubiaceae Tree

443 Neonauclea purpurea (Roxb.) Merr. Kadam Rubiaceae Tree

444 Nephrolepis auriculata Linnaeus Nephrolepidaceae Herb




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445 Nephrolepis cordifolia (L.) C. Persl. Pani Amla Dryopteridaceae Herb

446 Neyraudia zollingeri (Buese) Hooker f . Poaceae Grass

447 Nyssa javanica (Blume)Wangerin Lekh chiloune Nyssaceae Tree

448 Ocimum basilicum L. Lamiaceae Herb

449 Ocimum tenuiflorum L. Tulasipatta Lamiaceae Herb

450 Ophiopogon intermedius D. Don. Kaligeri Liliaceae Herb

451 Oplismenus burmanii (Retzius) P. Beauvois

Poaceae Grass

452 Oplismenus compositus (Linnaeus) P. Beauvois

Poaceae Grass

453 Oroxylum indicum (L.) Benth. Ex Kurz Totola Bignoniaceae Tree

454 Osbeckia nepalensis Hook.f. Anger/Seto Chulesii

Melastomataceae Shrub

455 Osbeckia stellata Buch.-Ham. ex Ker Gawl.

Babui tulsi Melastomataceae Shrub

456 Ostodes paniculata Blume Bepari Euphorbiaceae Tree

457 Oxalis corniculata L. Chariamilo Oxalidaceae Herb

458 Oxyspora paniculata (D.Don) DC Chulesi Melastomataceae Shrub

459 Paederia cruddasiana Prain Pade/Bire Lahara Rubiaceae Climber

460 Paederia foetida L. Barilahara Rubiaceae Shrub

461 Panax pseudoginseng Wall. Panchapattey Araliaceae Herb

462 Pandanus furcatas Roxb. Tarika Pandanaceae Tree

463 Paris polyphylla Sm. Satuwa Liliaceae Herb

464 Parthenocissus semicordata (Wall.) Planch.

Charcharae(Thulo) Vitaceae Climber

465 Pavetta polyantha (Hook.f.) Wall. ex Bremek.

Sundok Rubiaceae Shrub

466 Peliosanthes griffithii Baker Convallariaceae Herb

467 Pentapanax fragrans (D. Don) Ha Araliaceae Tree

468 Peperomia pellucida (L.) Kunth Silverbush Piperaceae Herb

469 Perilla frutescens (L.) Britton Silam Lamiaceae Herb

470 Peristrophe speciosa (Roxburgh) Nees Acanthaceae Herb

471 Persea macrantha (Nees) Kosterm. Lauraceae Tree

472 Persea odoratissima (Nees) Kosterm. Lalikaulo Lauraceae Tree

473 Persea pallida (Nees) Oliv. Lauraceae Tree




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474 Persicaria chinensis (L.) H.Gross Kukur Thotnae Polygonaceae Climber

475 Persicaria microcephala (D. Don) H. Gross

Polygonaceae Herb

476 Persicaria runcinata (D. Don) H. Gross Polygonaceae Herb

477 Phaius tankervilleae (Bank ex I-Herit.) Blume.

Orchidaceae Herb

478 Phaseolus coccineus Linnaeus Fabaceae Herb

479 Phlogacanthus pubinervius T. Anderson

Chuwa Acanthacea Shrub

480 Phlogacanthus thyrsiformis (Hardwicke) Mabberley

Acanthaceae Shrub

481 Phlogacanthus thyrsiformis (Roxb.ex Hard.) D. J. Mab.

Chuwa Acanthacea Shrub

482 Phoebe attenuata (Nees) Nees Aule lapchae kawla Lauraceae Tree

483 Phoebe hainesiana Brandis Angare Lauraceae Tree

484 Phoebe lanceolata (Nees) Nees Jhakri Kath Lauraceae Tree

485 Phoenix rupicola T. Anders Cliff date Palm Arecaceae Tree

486 Phoenix loureiroi Kunth Betgera Arecaceae Tree

487 Pholidota imbricata Hook Orchidaceae Herb

488 Phyllanthus emblica L. Aonla/Amala Phyllanthaceae Tree

489 Phyllanthus fraternus Webster. Bhui-amla Euphorbiaceae Herb

490 Phyllanthus urinaria L. Bhumi Amla Phyllanthaceae Herb

491 Phymatosorus cuspidatus D. Don Polypodiaceae Herb

492 Physalis divaricata L. Bon Tepari Solanaceae Herb

493 Physalis minima L. Jungali tamatar Solanaceae Herb

494 Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. Jaringo Phytolacaceae Herb

495 Pilea bracteosa Weddell Urtcaceae Herb

496 Pilea cordifolia Hook f. Gaglato Urticaceae Herb

497 Pilea scripta (D.Don) Weddell Seto Gagleto Urticaceae Herb

498 Pilea umbrosa Blume Urticaceae Herb

499 Pinus roxburghii Sargent Dhup Pinaceae Tree

500 Piper boehmeriifolium (Miq.)Wall. ex DC.

Chaba Piperaceae Climber

501 Piper hamiltonii DC. Chabo or Jungli Pan

Piperaceae Climber

502 Piper longum L. Pipla Piperaceae Climber

503 Piper mullesua Buch.- Ham.ex D. Don Chabo/Hill pepper piperaceae Climber

504 Piper nigrum L. Chhimpri-gupai Piperaceae Climber




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505 Piper peepuloides Roxburgh Piperaceae Herb

506 Plantago asiatica ssp.erosa (Wall.) Z.Yu.Li

Nasey jhar Plantaginaceae Herb

507 Plantago erosa Wall. Jibray Jhar Plantaginaceae Herb

508 Plumbago zeylanica L. Chitigni Plumbaginaceae Shrub

509 Podophyllum sikkimense Chatterjee & Mukherjee.

Podophyllaceae Herb

510 Pogonatherum paniceum (Lam.) Hack Kharuki Poaceae Grass

511 Pogonetherum paniceum (Lamarck) Hack.

Kharuki Poaceae Grass

512 Polyalthia simiarum (Buch. Ham.ex Hook.f.&T.) Benth.

Lapche Kath Anonaceae Tree

513 Polygala arrilata Buch-Ham ex D.Don Marcha Polemoniaceae Shrub

514 Polygonum molle D. Don Thotne Polygonaceae Herb

515 Polystichum lentum (D.Don.) T.Moore Kuthurke Ningro Dryopteridaceae Fern

516 Potentilla lineata Trevir. Bansupari Rosaceae Herb

517 Pothos scandens L. Sanu kanchirna Araceae Climber

518 Pouzolzia hirta (Blume) Hasskarl Urticaceae Herb

519 Pouzolzia sanguinea (Blume) Merrill Chiple Urticaceae Herb

520 Pratia nummularia (Lamk) A. Br. Lanka Sanay Campanulaceae Herb

521 Premna longifolia Roxb. Gineri Verbenaceae Tree

522 Premna scandens Roxb. Gineri Lahara Verbenaceae Climber

523 Premna mollissima Roth Gineri Tree

524 Premnabracteata Wall. ex C.B.Clarke Verbenaceae Tree

525 Prunus cerasoides D. Don Payun Rosaceae Tree

526 Pseudognaphilum affine (D.Don.) Anderb.

Buki phul Asteraceae Herb

527 Pseudostachyum polymorphum Munro Philing bans Poaceae Grass

528 Psilanthus benghalensis (Schultes) Leroy

Rubiaceae Shrub

529 Pteris biaurita L. Dwathey niuro/Unio

Pteridaceae Herb

530 Pterospermum acerifolium (L.)Willd. Hatipailae Malvaceae Tree

531 Pterygota alata (Roxb.) R.Br. Narkeli Malvaceae Tree

532 Pupalia atropurpurea Moq. Amarantaceae Herb

533 Pyrularia edulis (Wall.ex Roxb.) A.DC Amphi Santalaceae Tree

534 Pyrus pashia Buch.- Ham.ex D. Don Mael Rosaceae Tree

535 Quercus glauca Thunb. Phalant Fagaceae Tree




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536 Quercus lamellosa Smith. Buk Fagaceae Tree

537 Ranunculus diffusus DC. Nakkore Jhar Ranunculaceae Herb

538 Raphidophora glauca (Wall.) Schott Kanchirna Araceae Climber

539 Rauwolfia serpentina (L.) Benth.ex Kurz.

Nagbeli Apocynaceae Herb

540 Rhaphidophora decursiva (Roxb.) Schott

Kanchirna Araceae Climber

541 Rheum acuminatum Hook. f. Khokim Polygonaceae Herb

542 Rheum nobile Hook.f. and Thoms. Padamchal Polygonaceae Herb

543 Rhododendron arboreum Smith Lali gurans Ericaceae Tree

544 Rhododendron dalhousae Hook. f. Lahare chimal Ericaceae Shrub

545 Rhododendron grande Wight Patle korlinga Ericaceae Tree

546 Rhopalephora scaberrima (Blume) R. Faden

Commelinaceae Herb

547 Rhus chinensis Mill. Bhakimlo Anacardiaceae Tree

548 Rhus insignis Hook. f. Thaksing Anacardiaceae Tree

549 Rhynchoglossum obliquum Blume Gesneriaceae Herb

550 Rhynchostylis retusa (L.) Blume. Orchidaceae Herb

551 Rosa sericea Lindl. Sebimendo Rosaceae Shrub

552 Rubia cordifolia Wallich ex G. Don Rubiaceae Herb

553 Rubia manjith Roxb.ex Fleming Manjito Rubiaceae Climber

554 Rubia sikkimensis Kutz. Bhale Majito Rubiaceae Climber

555 Rubus ellipticus Sm. Aiselu Rosaceae Shrub

556 Rubus indicus Thunb. Jungali aiselu Rosaceae Shrub

557 Rubus lineatus Rein. Ex Blume Ghyampe Aselu Rosaceae Herb

558 Rubus moluccanus L. Bhote Pan Rosaceae Climber

559 Rubus paniculatus Sm. Kalo Aselu Rosaceae Climber

560 Rubus rosifolius Sm. Gempe Aselu Rosaceae Shrub

561 Rumex nepalensis Spreng. Halhale Polygonaceae Herb

562 Saccharum arundinaceum Retzius Poaceae Grass

563 Salacia chinensis L. Celastraceae Tree

564 Salix tetrasperma Roxb. Beis Salicaceae Tree

565 Sambucus adnata Wall. Moti phool Adoxaceae Shrub

566 Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn. Ritha Sapindaceae Tree

567 Sapindus rarak DC. Achatia Sapindaceae Tree

568 Sapium baccatum Roxb. Pudlikat Euphorbiaceae Tree

569 Sarcosperma arboreum Hook.f. Pahar Lampati Sapotaceae Tree

570 Satyrium nepalense D.Don Salammisri Orchidaceae Herb




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571 Saurauia nepaulensis DC. Gogun Actinidiaceae Tree

572 Saurauria fasciculata Wall. Gogun Actinidiaceae Tree

573 Saurauria roxburgii Wall. Aulae gagun Actinidiaceae Tree

574 Schefflera elata(Buch.-Ham.) Harms Gufla Araliaceae Tree

575 Schefflera rhododendrifolia (Griff.) Frodin

Bhalu Chinde Araliaceae Tree

576 Schima wallichii (DC.) Korth. Aule Chilaunae Theaceae Tree

577 Schisandra grandiflora (Wall.) Hook.f. and Thomson

Singauto Schisandraceae Climber

578 Schisandra propinqua (Wall.) Baill. Nyalchu Schisandraceae Climber

579 Scoparia dulcis L. Khareto Jhar Scrophulariaceae Herb

580 Scurrula parasitica L. Aijaru Loranthaceae Shrub

581 Selaginella monospora Spring Selaginellaceae Herb

582 Semecarpus anacardium L.f. Bhayla Anacardiaceae Tree

583 Setaria palmifolia (J. Koenig) Stapf Poaceae Grass

584 Shorea robusta Gaertn. Sal Dipterocarpaceae Tree

585 Sida acuta Burm.f. Khareto Malvaceae Herb

586 Sida rhombifolia Linnaeus Malvaceae Herb

587 Sigesbeckia orientalis L. Asteraceae Herb

588 Smilax ovalifolia Roxburgh Smilacaceae Climber

589 Smilax zeylanica L. Kukurdaine Smilacaceae Climber

590 Smilaxaspericaulis Wall. ex A.DC. Kukurdainey Smilaceae Climber

591 Solanum capsicoides All. Kanre Bee Solanaceae Shrub

592 Solanum nigrum L. Kalo bihi Solanaceae Herb

593 Solanum pseudocapsicum L. Boksi Kanra Solanaceae Shrub

594 Solanum torvum Swartz. Gothbegun Solanaceae Shrub

595 Solanum viarum Dunal Clarke Solanaceae Shrub

596 Solena amplexicaulis (Lam.) Gandhi Ban kakri Cucurbitaceae Climber

597 Sonchus oleraceus L. Ban-rayo Asteraceae Herb

598 Sorindeia madagascariensis Thouars ex DC.

Anacardiaceae Shrub

599 Spatholobus parviflorus (DC.)Kuntze Debre Lahara Fabaceae Climber

600 Spermacoce latifolia Aublet Rubiaceae Herb

601 Spermadictyon suaveolens Roxb. Ban Champ Rubiaceae Shrub

602 Spondias pinnata (L. f.) Kurz. Amaro Anacardiceae Tree

603 Spondias axillaris Roxb. Hug Plum Anacardiaceae Tree

604 Stellaria media(L.)Vill. Boksi Jhar Caryophyllaceae Herb

605 Stephania glabra (Roxb.) Miers. Nimi Lahara/ Menispermaceae Climber




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Tambarke

606 Stephania japonica (Thunb.) Mier. Tambarkae Menispermaceae Climber

607 Sterculia villosa Roxb. Odal Sterculiaceae Tree

608 Stereospermum chelonoides (L.f.) DC. Parari Bignoniaceae Tree

609 Stereospermum tetragonum DC. Singyen-kung Bignoniaceae Tree

610 Streptolirion volubile Edgew. Akashveli Commelinaceae Herb

611 Strobilanthes capitata Nees Ankhle Acanthacea Herb

612 Strobilanthes divaricatus (Nees)T. Anders.

Aakhlae Acanthacea Shrub

613 Strobilanthes himalayana J.R.I. Wood Acanthaceae Herb

614 Strobilanthes wallichii Nees Ankhle Acanthacea Shrub

615 Swertia bimaculata (Sieb.&Zucc.) Hook.f.&T.

Bhale Chirowto Gentianaceae Herb

616 Swertia chirayita (Roxb.)H.Karst. Chiraito Gentianaceae Herb

617 Symplocos glomerata King ex C.B.Clarke

Kharane Symplocaceae Tree

618 Symplocos lucida (Thunb.) Sieb & Zucc.

Ghole/Kharane Symplocaceae Tree

619 Syzigium cumini (L.) Skeels Jamun Myrtaceae Tree

620 Syzigium ramosissimum (Blume) N.P.Bal.

Jhare Jamuna Myrtaceae Tree

621 Syzigium balsameum (Wight) Wall. ex Walp.

Archal Myrtaceae Tree

622 Syzigium claviflorum (Roxb.) Wall. ex A.M.Cowan & Cowan

Hare jamuna Myrtaceae Tree

623 Syzigium formosum (Wall.) Masam. Ambakae Myrtaceae Tree

624 Tabernaemontana divericata (L.) R.Br.ex Roem.Schult.

Chandnee/Tagar Apocynancea Shrub

625 Talinum portulacifolium (Forssk.) Asch.ex Scheinf.

Dalda saag Portulacaceae Herb

626 Tamarindus indica L. Titri Fabaceae Tree

627 Taxus baccata L. Cheongboo Taxaceae Tree

628 Tectaria coadunata (J. Sm.) C. Chr. Kalo unew Tectariaceae Herb

629 Tectaria griffithii (Baker) C. Christensen

Dryopteridaceae Herb

630 Tectona grandis L.f. Teak Verbenaceae Tree

631 Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.ex DC.) Wight & Arn.

Arjun Combretaceae Tree

632 Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb. Barra Combretaceae Tree




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633 Terminalia chebula Retz. Harra Combretaceae Tree

634 Terminalia crenulata Roth. Pakasajh Combretaceae Tree

635 Terminalia tomentosa Wight & Arn. Saj Combretaceae Tree

636 Terminilia myriocarpa Van Heurck & Muller

Panisaj Combretaceae Tree

637 Tetradium fraxinifolium (Hook.f.) T.G.Hart.

Khanakpa Rutaceae Tree

638 Tetradium glabrifolium (Champ.ex Benth.) T.G.Hart.

Thulo Khankpa Rutaceae Tree

639 Tetrameles nudiflora R. Br. Maina Tetramelaceae Tree

640 Tetrastigma bracteolatum (Wall.) Planch.

Charcharae lahara Vitaceae Climber

641 Tetrastigma planicaule (Hooker f.) Gagnepain

Vitaceae Climber

642 Tetrastigma serrulatum (Roxb.) Planch. Charchare (Syaano) Vitaceae Climber

643 Thladiantha cordifolia (Blume) Cogniaux

Cucurbitaceae Climber

644 Thunbergia fragrance Roxb. Kanasae Lahara Acanthacea Climber

645 Thysanolaena latifolia (Roxb. ex Hornem) Honda.

Phul jharu Poaceae Shrub

646 Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Hook. f. & Thoms.

Gurjo lahara Menispermaceae Climber

647 Tinsopora sinensis (Lour.) Gurjo Lahara Menispermaceae Climber

648 Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsley) A. Gray Asteraceae Shrub

649 Toona ciliata M. Roem. Tooni Meliaceae Tree

650 Toxicodendron hookeri (Sahni & Bahadur) C.I.Wu &T.L.Ming

Kag bhalayo Anacardiaceae Tree

651 Toxicodendron succedaneum (L.) Kuntze

Rani Bhalayo Anacardiaceae Tree

652 Trema politoria Plancon Kuail Ulmaceae Tree

653 Trema orientalis (L.) Blume Khari Ulmaceae Tree

654 Trevesia palmata (Roxb.ex Lindl.) Vis. Phutta Araliaceae Tree

655 Trewia nudiflora L. Pithali Euphorbiaceae Tree

656 Trichosanthes tricuspidata Lour. Indreni Cucurbitaceae Climber

657 Trichosanthes wallichiana (Ser.) Wight Indreni Cucurbitaceae Climber

658 Trichosanthes lepiniana (Naudin) Cogn.

Indreni Cucurbitaceae Climber

659 Tridax procumbens L. Asteraceae Herb




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660 Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacquin Tiliaceae Herb

661 Tupistra nutans Wall.ex Lind. Nakima Liliaceae Herb

662 Turpinia pomifera (Roxb.)DC Thali Staphyleaceae Tree

663 Urena lobata L. Samthai Malvaceae Herb

664 Urtica dioica L. Gharia sisnu Urticaceae Herb

665 Urtica parviflora Roxb. Urticaceae Shrub

666 Uvaria hamiltonii Hook.f.&Thom. Bandar Jhula Anonaceae Climber

667 Vaccinum nummularia Hook.f.&T. Ericaceae Shrub

668 Vaccinum retusum (Grif.) Hook.f.ex C.B.Clarke

Ratay Ericaceae Shrub

669 Vaccinum vacciniaceum (Roxb.) Sleum. Charu Ericaceae Shrub

670 Valeriana hardwickii Wall. Valerianaceae Herb

671 Vallaris solanacea (Roth) O. Kuntze Apocynaceae Herb

672 Ventilago denticulata Willd. Rhamnaceae Climber

673 Vernonia saligna DC. Asteraceae Shrub

674 Vernonia talaumifolia Hook.f.&T. Nundheki Asteraceae Tree

675 Vernonia volkameriifolia DC. Nundheki Asteraceae Tree

676 Viburnum erubescens Wall. Ex DC. Asarae Adoxaceae Shrub

677 Viola cerasifolia Saint-Hiaire. Ghatte jhar Violaceae Herb

678 Viola pilosa Blume Ghatte jhar Violaceae Herb

679 Viscum album L. Hadjor Loranthaceae Shrub

680 Viscum liquidambaricolum Hayata. Loranthaceae Shrub

681 Viscum nepalense Sprengel Harchur Loranthaceae Shrub

682 Vitex negundo L. Nisinda Verbenaceae Tree

683 Vitis heyneana Roemer & Schultes Jarila Lahara Vitaceae Climber

684 Wallichia oblongifolia Griff. Thakal Palmae Shrub

685 Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) Kurz. Dhangayro Lythraceae Shrub

686 Wrightia arborea (Dennst.)Mabb Khirra Apocynaceae Tree

687 Youngia japonica (L.) DC. Asteraceae Herb

688 Zanthoxylum acanthopodium DC. Bhale Timbur Rutaceae Shrub

689 Zanthoxylum armatum DC. Boke timur Rutaceae Tree

690 Zanthoxylum oxyphyllum Edgew. Siltimbur Rutaceae Climber

691 Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC. Timbur Tree

692 Zingiber officinale Rocs. Aduwa Zingiberaceae Herb

693 Zingiber rubens Roxb. Zingiberaceae Herb

694 Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. Baer Rhamnaceae Tree

695 Ziziphus rugosa Lam. Bukh baer Rhamnaceae Tree




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Recorded floral species from the study area were assessed for their conservation status by

crosschecking with red data book of Indian plants (Nayar & Sastri, 1987-90) and none of

the plant taxa were found under RET category.

3.12.10 Medicinal plants

Medicinal plants have curative properties due to the presence of various complex

chemical substances of different composition. The ethnobotanical information serves as

indicators for new compounds with active principles for phytochemical,

pharmacognostical and pharmacological. Indigenous people use many of the medicinal

plants traditionally for treating their ailments. The conservation of medicinal plants

means every species of plants in its natural habitat should be protected and preserved.

Because of continuous exploitation of medicinal plants from their natural habitats, it is

required to replant and regenerate them in other areas having similar habitat or

environment. The recorded medicinal palnts during site visit are given in Table 3.31

Table 3.31

Checkist of medicinal plants recorded during the field study

S.No. Botanical name Vernacular name

Parts used

1 Aconitum ferox Wall. Ex Ser. Bikhumma Rhizome

2 Aconitum heterophyllum Wall. Ex Royle Aatish Rhizome

3 Acorus calamus L. Bojo Rhizome

4 Adhatoda vasica L. Basak Leaves and roots

5 Allium wallichii Kunth. Dung-dunge Whole plant

6 Aloe barbadensis Mill. Gheukumari Whole plant

7 Artemisia vulgaris L. Titepati Leaves

8 Astilbe rivularis Ham. Buro Okhoti Root

9 Berginia ciliata (How.) Sternb. Pakhanbed Rhizome and root

10 Centella asiatica (L.) Urban Brahmi Whole plant

11 Costus speciosus Smith Betlauree Rhizome and root

12 Curcuma aromatica Salisb. Fatcheng Rhizome

13 Curcuma caesia Roxb. Kalohaldi Rhizome

14 Hedychium spicatum Sm. Sara Rhizome

15 Kaempferia rotunda L. Bhuichampa Tuber




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16 Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam) Pers. Patharkuchi Leaves

17 Nardostachys jatamansi DC. Jatamansi Rhizome

18 Ocimum basilicum L. Tulsi Leaves and seeds

19 Orchis latifolia L. Panch- aunlay Tuber and root

20 Panax pseudoginseng Wall. Panchapatte y Rhizome

21 Picrorrhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth. Kutki Root

22 Podophyllum hexandrum Royle Rhizome and root

23 Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn. Ritha Fruits and root bark

24 Swertia chirata Ham. Chireto Whole plant

25 Taxus baccata L. Dhegreshalla Leaves and bark

26 Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers Gurjo Stem

27 Tupistra nutans Wall. Teeta Whole plant

28 Zingiber cassumunarRoxb. Banada Rhizome/ inflorescence

3.12.11 Economically Important Plant Species

The wood used in lower areas for timber include Bischofia javanica, Castanopsis indica,

Garuga pinnata, Fraxinus floribunda, Juglans regia, Schima wallichii, Shorea robusta,

Terminalia tomentosa and Toona ciliata. In addition to these trees, some tall and woody

bamboos like Bambusa tulda, Dendrocalamus hamiltonii, Dendrocalamussikkimensis,

etc. are also used for these purposes. At higher altitudes various oak and coniferous

species were used as timber trees and fuel wood. Some of the other plant species in the

study area are used by the local inhabitants for various purposes. A list of some

commonly occurring plant species and their miscellaneous uses are given in Table 3.32

Table 3.32

Checklist of economic importance plants from study area

S.No. Plant name Uses

1 Acorus calamus L. Rhizomes are used as insectisides in storage of cereals

2 Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Ness.

Dried flowers are decorative and also used for preparation of pillow

3 Arisaema tortuosum (Wall.) Schott

Tubers are used as an insectisidal purposes

4 Artemisia nilagirica L. Leaves and flowering tops used for flavouring in alcoholic drinks




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5 Bambusa nutans Gamble House construction, support for prayer flags by Buddhist

6 Cardamine corymbosa Hook.f. Leaves are eaten as vegetables

7 Castanopsis hystrix Miq. Fruits edible, fuelwood, leaves are good ingredients for composts.

8 Castanopsis tribuloides (Smith) A.DC.

Fruits edible, fuelwood, leaves are good ingredients for composts.

9 Daphne cannabina (Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don) Keissl.

Bark is used as ropes but also have potential for preparation of paper.

10 Dendrocalamus hamiltonii Nees & Arn. ex Munro

Water pipes, water vessels, young shoots as vegetables, house construction, local handicrafts, fodder for cattle etc.

11 Echinochloa frumentacea Link Seeds are good source of potent beer

12 Elaeocarpus lanceafolius Roxb. Fruits edible

13 Geranium wallichianum D.Don ex Sweet

Flowers used for ornamental purposes

14 Juniperus recurva BuchHam. ex D. Don

Local Buddhist uses leaves as incense.

15 Pinus longifolia Roxb. Cones are used as decorative

16 Rhododendron setosum D. Don. Local Buddhist uses leaves as incense.

17 Rhododendron arboreum Sm. Flowers used for squace preparation

18 Terminalia myriocarpa Van Heurck & Müll. Arg.

It is planted for landscaping

19 Thysanolaena latifolia (Roxb. ex Hornem.) Honda

Plants used for broom preparation

3.12.12 Phytosociology Analysis for Community Structure

The total picture of the relative ecological importance and the sociological structure of a

given plant species in any community can’t be obtained by relative parameters (relative

frequency, relative density, relative dominance, etc.,) singly, which give individual clues,

although the quantitative value of each such parameter has its own importance.

Frequency gives an idea as to how a species is dispersed in the area but we will not get an

idea about its number or the area covered. Density on the other hand gives the numerical

strength and nothing about the spread or cover. Dominance gives the basal cover only. In

order to express the dominance and ecological success of any species with a single value,




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the concept of important value index has been developed. This index utilizes three

characteristics, viz., relative frequency, relative density and relative dominance.

Salangdang (Left side of the Barrage area)

On the left side of the barrage area, the highest IVI value recorded for Schima wallichii

(13.1) followed by Callicarpa arborea and Alstonia scholaris represented by 12 each,

and Terminalia myriocarpa detailed phytosociological studies shown in Table 3.33

Distribution of shrubs and climbers in the study area of the project, the various quadrats

indicated that Dichroa febrifugahad highest IVI (50.6), followed by Allophyllus

zeylanica, Atlantia monophylla and Crotalaria pallida remaining species were given in

the Table 3.34

As the study area is dominated by the forest, the area is with remarkably rich herbaceous

ground cover. The herbs observed in the sampling plots, during the survey period, Oxalis

corniculata had heighet IVI (9.44), followed by Begonia picta, Anaphalis margaritacea

and Adiantum lunulatum have been enlisted in the Table 3.35

Table 3.33

Importance Value Index of Tree Species at Salangdang Area

S.No. Plant name RF Rden Rdom IVI

1 Schima wallichii 4.83 5.9 2.41 13.1

2 Alstonia scholaris 4.3 4.33 3.4 12

3 Callicarpa arborea 4.3 4.33 3.33 12

4 Terminalia myriocarpa 4.45 4.68 2.42 11.6

5 Aphanamixis polystachya 3.3 3.08 3.4 9.78

6 Diploknema butyracea 4.11 3.21 2.35 9.67

7 Artocarpus lakoocha 3.11 2.96 3.27 9.34

8 Rhus chinensis 3.11 2.84 3.3 9.25

9 Artocarpus heterophyllus 1.92 1.96 3.33 7.21

10 Phoebe attenuata 1.72 2.08 2.36 6.16

11 Chukrasia tyabularis 1.96 1.86 2.25 6.07

12 Sloanea sterculiacea 1.96 1.61 2.08 5.65

13 Mallotus philippensis 1.57 1.49 2.3 5.36

14 Neolamarckia cadamba 1.92 1.84 1.4 5.16




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15 Bischofia javanica 1.57 1.49 2.1 5.16

16 Cinnamomum glanduliferum

1.57 1.37 2.2 5.14

17 Michelia champaca 1.92 1.84 1.35 5.11

18 Toona ciliata 1.72 1.96 1.38 5.06

19 Baccaurea sapida 1.57 1.37 2.11 5.05

20 Terminalia tomentosa 1.92 1.72 1.4 5.04

21 Litsea monopetala 1.57 1.49 1.95 5.01

22 Cassia fistula 1.77 1.98 1.15 4.9

23 Syzygium cumini 2.11 1.47 1.3 4.88

24 Chrysophyllum roxburghii 1.77 1.98 1.1 4.85

25 Terminalia chebula 1.53 1.84 1.34 4.71

26 Daubanga grandiflora 1.72 1.59 1.39 4.7

27 Spondias pinnata 1.72 1.72 1.23 4.67

28 Macaranga denticulata 1.92 1.72 1.03 4.67

29 Antidesma acidum 1.53 1.59 1.26 4.38

30 Caryota urens 1.34 1.72 1.32 4.38

31 Ficus glomerata 1.34 1.72 1.31 4.37

32 Pentapanax fragrans 1.34 1.59 1.39 4.32

33 Bombax ceiba 1.34 1.47 1.39 4.2

34 Shorea robusta 1.34 1.47 1.39 4.2

35 Ficus semicordata 1.34 1.72 1.14 4.2

36 Canarium bengalensis 1.34 1.47 1.26 4.07

37 Kydia calycina 1.19 1.47 1.35 4.01

38 Ficus racemosa 1.15 1.47 1.37 3.99

39 Terminalia bellerica 1.34 1.35 1.29 3.98

40 Ficus ariculata 1.34 1.35 1.25 3.94

41 Glochidion lanceolarium 1.34 1.35 1.24 3.93

42 Tectona grandis 1.34 1.23 1.28 3.85

43 Chassalia curviflora 1.15 1.47 1.2 3.82

44 Elaeocarpus floribundus 1.15 1.23 1.38 3.76

45 Gmelina arborea 1.15 1.23 1.37 3.75

46 Styrax serrulatus 1.34 1.1 1.29 3.73

47 Terminalia arjuna 1.34 1.23 1.13 3.7

48 Cinnamomum glanduliferum

1.15 1.23 1.3 3.68

49 Sterculia versicolor 1.34 0.98 1.34 3.66




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50 Dillenia indica 1.31 0.98 1.31 3.6

51 Sapium baccatum 1.15 0.98 1.29 3.42

52 Garuga pinnata 0.38 0.37 2.09 2.84

53 Sterculia villosa 0.52 0.37 1.94 2.83

54 Dillenia pentagyna 0.38 0.37 2.05 2.8

55 Randia dumetorum 0.38 0.37 2.03 2.78

56 Ehretia acuminata 0.38 0.3 1.1 1.78

57 Elaeocarpus lanceifolius 0.38 0.37 1 1.75

58 Bridelia retusa 0.57 0.37 0.59 1.53

59 Macaranga peltata 0.38 0.37 0.72 1.47

Total 100 100 100 300

Table 3.34

Phytosociology of the Shrubs and Liana at Salangdang Area

S.No. Plant name RF Rden Rdom IVI

1 Dichroa febrifuga 15.8 24.42 10.4 50.6

2 Eupatorium adenophorum 13.4 20.63 6.043 40

3 Daphne papyraceae 0.34 0.211 38.21 38.8

4 Millettia pachycarpa 12 10.11 5.158 27.3

5 Eugeniabracteata 0.34 0.211 21.28 21.8

6 Osbeckia nepalensis 6.51 6.947 1.323 14.8

7 Rubus ellipticus 3.42 4 1.403 8.83

8 Aconogonom molle 4.11 2.737 1.672 8.52

9 Mesia montana 5.14 3.158 0.103 8.4

10 Holmskioldia sanguinea 4.11 2.526 0.903 7.54

11 Desdmodium heterocarpon 1.37 1.053 4.545 6.97

12 Wallichia oblongifolia . 3.77 2.316 0.06 6.14

13 Thunbergia grandiflora 3.08 2.105 0.648 5.84

14 Pavetta polyantha 2.4 2.105 0.723 5.23

15 Natsiatum herpeticum 2.74 2.316 0.073 5.13

16 Melastoma malabathricum 2.74 2.316 0.011 5.07

17 Rhododendron dalhousae 2.4 1.474 0.034 3.9

18 Ventilago denticulata 1.71 1.474 0.579 3.77

19 Hiptage benghalensis 1.37 1.053 0.603 3.03

20 Dobinea vulgaris 1.37 0.842 0.737 2.95

21 Uvaria hamiltonii 1.03 0.632 1.18 2.84




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22 Argyreia nervosa 1.37 1.053 0.009 2.43

23 Solanum torvum 0.68 0.421 1.211 2.32

24 Cephaelis ipecacuanha 1.03 0.632 0.456 2.11

25 Combretum decandrum 1.03 0.842 0.227 2.1

26 Clerodendrum serratum 1.03 0.632 0.329 1.99

27 Rubus paniculatus 0.68 0.421 0.652 1.76

28 Boehmeria platyphylla 0.68 0.421 0.359 1.46

29 Persicaria chinensis 0.68 0.632 0.127 1.44

30 Ixora undulata 0.68 0.421 0.184 1.29

31 Sambucus adnata 0.34 0.211 0.212 0.77

32 Caesalpinia cucullata 0.34 0.211 0.166 0.72

33 Debregeasia longifolia 0.34 0.211 0.141 0.69

34 Mikania micrantha 0.34 0.211 0.064 0.62

35 Tetrastigma bracteolatum 0.34 0.211 0.053 0.61

36 Lantana camara 0.34 0.211 0.051 0.6

37 Combretum indicum 0.34 0.211 0.037 0.59

38 Abrus pulchellus 0.34 0.211 0.035 0.59

39 Grewia eriocarpa 0.34 0.211 0.003 0.56

Total 100 100 100 300

Table 3.35

Phytosociology of the Herbs at Salangdang Area

S.No. Name of the plant R.F R.D R.A IVI

1 Oxalis corniculata 3.46 3.91 2.06 9.44

2 Begonia picta 3.46 3.59 1.89 8.94

3 Anaphalis margaritacea 3.19 3.45 1.98 8.62

4 Adiantum lunulatum 3.46 2.99 1.58 8.03

5 Rheum nobile 3.46 2.99 1.58 8.03

6 Rhopalephora scaberrima 1.91 2.99 2.85 7.76

7 Boehmeria ternifolia 2.82 2.99 1.93 7.75

8 Aeschynanthus novogracilis

2.73 2.99 2 7.72

9 Begonia picta 2.28 2.99 2.4 7.67

10 Colebrookea oppositifolia 2.28 2.99 2.4 7.67

11 Ariesaema nepenthoides 2.55 2.72 1.94 7.21

12 Arisaema tortuosum 2.46 2.62 1.95 7.03




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13 Acorus calamus 1.91 2.39 2.28 6.59

14 Drymaria villosa 2.19 2.35 1.96 6.49

15 Begonia dioica 2.55 2.25 1.61 6.42

16 Cymbopogon citratus 2.55 2.21 1.58 6.34

17 Dicliptera bupleuroides 2.19 2.21 1.84 6.24

18 Didymocarpus aromaticus 2.37 2.07 1.6 6.04

19 Nephrolepis auriculata 2.28 2.07 1.66 6.01

20 Pilea scripta 1.73 2.07 2.18 5.99

21 Duchesna indica 1.91 2.07 1.98 5.96

22 Elatostema platyphyllum 2.09 1.93 1.68 5.71

23 Dactylicapnos scandens 1.82 1.93 1.94 5.69

24 Hedychium ellipticum 1.09 1.66 2.77 5.52

25 Elsholtzia blanda 2.19 1.75 1.46 5.39

26 Eranthemum indicum 2.46 1.61 1.2 5.27

27 Fagopyrum esculentum 1.37 1.61 2.15 5.13

28 Centella asiatica 1.37 1.61 2.15 5.13

29 Aeschynanthus hookeri 1.37 1.61 2.15 5.13

30 Gloriosa superba 1.91 1.61 1.54 5.06

31 Hedychium coccineum 1.55 1.61 1.9 5.06

32 Heracleum wallichii 1.64 1.61 1.79 5.04

33 Nasturtium officinale 1.64 1.56 1.74 4.95

34 Strobilanthes himalayana 1.09 1.43 2.38 4.9

35 Pouzolzia hirta 1.64 1.47 1.64 4.75

36 Rumex nepalensis 1.73 1.43 1.5 4.66

37 Ophiopogon intermediu 1.73 1.43 1.5 4.66

38 Tupistra nutans 1.64 1.43 1.59 4.65

39 Impatiens trilobata 1.09 1.29 2.15 4.53

40 Tectaria griffithii 1.37 1.29 1.72 4.38

41 Rubus lineatus 0.91 1.15 2.31 4.37

42 Peristrophe speciosa 0.91 1.1 2.21 4.23

43 Panax pseudoginseng 1.09 1.15 1.92 4.16

44 Persicaria microcephala 1.64 1.15 1.28 4.07

45 Persicaria runcinata 1.37 1.1 1.48 3.95

46 Phyllanthus urinaria 1.09 0.97 1.61 3.67

47 Pilea cordifolia 1.55 0.97 1.14 3.65

48 Swertia bimaculata 1.28 0.97 1.38 3.62

49 Satyrium nepalense 0.91 0.87 1.75 3.54




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50 Selaginella monospora 1.09 0.87 1.46 3.43

51 Potentella lineata 0.73 0.69 1.73 3.15

52 Sonchus oleraceus 0.82 0.69 1.54 3.05

53 Urtica dioica 0.82 0.64 1.43 2.9

54 Valeriana hardwickii 0.82 0.55 1.23 2.6

55 Rheum acuminatum 0.46 0.32 1.29 2.07

Total 100 100 100 300

Kankiabang (Right side of the Barrage area)

Analysis of the vegetation will help in determining the relative importance of each

species in the study area and to reveal if any economically valuable species is threatened

in the process. The major tree species recorded in the study area were Lithocarpus

pachyphyllus, Symplocos ramosissima, Castanopsis hystrix, Castanopsis tribuloides,

Schima wallichii, Rhododendron arboreum and Shorea robusta etc. Phytosociology of

the treespecies presented in Table 3.36

Table 3.36

Phytosociology of the Tree Species in The Right Side of The Barrage

S.No Species RD RF Rdom IVI

1 Lithocarpus pachyphyllus 6.22 7.04 15.27 28.54

2 Symplocos ramosissima 7.16 8.31 13.06 28.5

3 Castanopsis hystrix 7.56 5.05 10.63 23.25

4 Castanopsis tribuloides 6.89 3.97 8.92 19.78


6 Rhododendron arboreum 4.15 2.89 8.31 15.35

7 Shorea robusta 5.73 4.33 1.39 11.45

8 Eurya acuminata 5.56 4.33 1.1 11

9 Quercus lamellosa 4.32 4.33 1.95 10.61

10 Symplocos heishanensis 3.06 3.96 2.13 9.18

11 Engelhardtia spicata 2.74 2.17 4.15 9.05

12 Gynocardia odorata 2.66 2.35 3.86 8.87

13 Betula alnoides 2.49 3.07 2.46 8.02


15 Albizia lebbeck 3.57 3.07 0.87 7.51

16 Alnus nepalensis 2.4 2.52 2.28 7.22




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17 Brassaiopsis hispida 2.83 3.24 1.01 7.08

18 Viburnum erubescens 2.16 0.36 2.27 4.79

19 Symplocos heishanensis 2.08 1.81 0.85 4.73

20 Elaeocarpus sikkimensis 1.96 2.16 0.74 4.65

21 Magnolia campbellii 1.5 2.16 0.87 4.54

22 Rhododendron hodgsonii 1.18 1.98 1.29 4.44

23 Acer campbellii 0.83 0.9 2.47 4.2

24 Beilschmiedia roxburghiana 1.16 1.81 0.91 3.88

25 Litsaea oblonga 0.75 0.72 2.17 3.64

26 Betula cylindrostachys 0.82 2.26 0.21 3.35

27 Nyssa sessiliflora 1.17 1.08 0.5 2.76

28 Michelia excelsa 0.84 1.26 0.47 2.57

29 Juglans regia 0.74 1.26 0.36 2.37

30 Macranga pustulata 0.75 1.26 0.13 2.14

31 Casearia glomerata 0.66 0.9 0.57 2.13

32 Prunus nepalensis 0.75 1.26 0.1 2.11

33 Cinnamomum tamala 0.58 1.08 0.27 1.93

34 Ostodes paniculatus 0.66 0.72 0.27 1.66

35 Albizia procera 0.48 1.08 0.06 1.62

36 Actinodaphne sikkimenss 0.66 0.72 0.13 1.52

37 Glochidion acuminatum 0.33 0.72 0.4 1.46

38 Celtis tetrandra 0.17 0.18 0.94 1.29

39 Phoebe lanceolata 0.32 0.72 0.14 1.19

40 Ficus glomerata 0.32 0.72 0.02 1.08

41 Spondias axillaris 0.25 0.36 0.37 0.98

42 Maesa chisia 0.33 0.54 0.04 0.91

43 Sapium baccatum 0.33 0.54 0.04 0.91

44 Ficus semicordata 0.17 0.36 0.07 0.6

45 Vitex heterophylla 0.17 0.36 0.06 0.59

46 Ficus neriifolia 0.25 0.18 0.03 0.46


48 Daphniphyllum chartaceum 0.08 0.18 0.08 0.34

49 Tetradium fraxinifolium 0.08 0.18 0 0.26

Total 100 100 100 300




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Phytosociology of the shrubs and climbers in the study area were represented by Breynia

vitis-idea, Elaeagnus infundibularis, Lantana camara, Leea indica, Flemingia stricta and

Ampelocissus barbata. These species are top five of IVI. The ecological parameters of

shrubs and climbers are given in Table 3.37

Table 3.37

Phytosociology of the Shrubs and Liana Species in The Right Side of The Barrage

S.No Species Name R.D. R.F. R.Dom IVI

1 Breynia vitis-idea 8.36 4.35 7.91 20.62

2 Elaeagnus infundibularis 6.57 4.35 6.75 17.66

3 Lantana camara 5.37 4.35 6.55 16.27

4 Leea indica 5.07 4.35 5.82 15.25

5 Flemingia stricta 4.48 4.35 5.49 14.31

6 Ampelocissus barbata 4.48 4.35 5.37 14.2

7 Daphne papyraceae 4.48 4.35 5 13.82

8 Grewia eriocarpa 5.67 4.35 2.82 12.83

9 Rubus ellipticus 4.78 4.35 3.56 12.69

10 Bridelia stipularis 4.18 4.35 4.06 12.59

11 Stephania japonica 3.88 4.35 2.69 10.92

12 Combretum albidum 3.88 2.17 4.72 10.78

13 Osbeckia stellata 3.58 4.35 2.52 10.45

14 Leea asiatica 3.88 2.17 3.78 9.837

15 Combretum flagrocarpum 2.39 4.35 2.31 9.042

16 Woodfordia fruticosa 2.09 2.17 4.04 8.299

17 Dichroa febrifuga 2.09 4.35 1.73 8.163

18 Entada rheedii 2.69 2.17 2.92 7.776

19 Laportea terminalis 2.09 2.17 3.29 7.555

20 Zanthoxylum acanthopodium 2.99 2.17 2.3 7.457

21 Dalbergia volubilis 2.99 2.17 2.24 7.403

22 Urtica parviflora 2.09 2.17 2.33 6.59

23 Holarrhena antidysenterica 2.09 2.17 1.34 5.605

24 Paederia foetida 1.79 2.17 1.45 5.418

25 Pavetta polyantha 1.19 2.17 1.8 5.17

26 Calamus latifolius 1.49 2.17 1.48 5.149

27 Microcos paniculata 1.49 2.17 1.39 5.059

28 Ardisia solanacea 0.9 2.17 1.66 4.727




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29 Tinospora cordifolia 0.9 2.17 1.13 4.204

30 Smilax zeylanica 0.9 2.17 0.5 3.568

31 Caesalpinia bonduc 0.6 2.17 0.54 3.308

32 Crotalaria pallida 0.6 2.17 0.52 3.292

Total 100 100 100 300

Phytosociology of the herbs and grass species in the study area are represented by

Senecio scandens, Geranium nepaliansis, Capillipedium assimile, Cephalostachyum

capitatium and Viola surpense. These five species are dominant within the stuay area.

The ecological parameters of the herbs and grasses are shown in Table 3.38

Table 3.38

Phytosociology of the herbs in the right side of the barrage

S.No Name of the plant RF RD RA IVI

1 Senecio scandens 5.92 5.61 3.53 15.06

2 Geranium nepaliansis 4.55 5.57 4.83 14.96

3 Capillipedium assimile 5.28 5.52 3.83 14.63

4 Cephalostachyum capitatium 4.74 4.6 3.57 12.91

5 Viola surpense 4.73 4.6 3.47 12.81

6 Plantago major 3.82 4.42 4.38 12.62

7 Urtica dioica 4.1 4.28 3.82 12.2

8 Pseudostachyum polymorphium Munro

5.01 3.96 2.72 11.68

9 Porgonetherum paniceum 4.83 3.68 2.8 11.31

10 Fragaria nubicola 3.19 3.86 4.15 11.21

11 Viola betonicifolia 3.82 3.36 3.18 10.37

12 Trifolium repens 3.19 3.36 3.66 10.21

13 Saccharum arundinaceum 3.01 3.17 3.89 10.08

14 Ophiorrhiza nutans 3.1 3.04 3.65 9.79

15 Arundinaria maling 2.46 2.76 4.21 9.43

16 Hydrocotyle nepaliansis 3.01 2.9 3.51 9.42

17 Phyllanthus maderaspatensis 3.19 3.45 1.98 8.62

18 Phyllanthus debilis 1.91 2.99 2.85 7.76

19 Rubia cordifolia 2.73 2.12 2.89 7.74

20 Gnaphalium luteoalbum 2.46 2.12 3.13 7.7

21 Phyllanthus amarus 2.28 2.99 2.4 7.67




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22 Oplismenus burmanii 2.55 2.72 1.94 7.21

23 Trianthema portulacastrum 2.55 2.21 1.58 6.34

24 Primula malacoides 2.28 2.07 1.66 6.01

25 Parthenium hysterophorus 1.73 2.07 2.18 5.99

26 Neyraudia zollingeri 2.19 1.75 1.46 5.39

27 Stachytarpeta jamaicansis 1.37 1.61 2.15 5.13

28 Tephrosia purpurea 1.64 1.47 1.64 4.75

29 Oplismenus burmannii 1.09 1.29 2.15 4.53

30 Commelina benghalensis 0.91 1.1 2.21 4.23

31 Melocana baccifera 1.09 1.15 1.92 4.16

32 Sida cordata 1.37 1.1 1.48 3.95

33 Sida acuta 1.09 0.87 1.46 3.43

34 Spermacoce hispida 0.73 0.69 1.73 3.15

35 Sebastiania chamaelea 0.82 0.64 1.43 2.9

36 Mollugo pentaphylla 0.82 0.55 1.23 2.6

37 Ocimum gratissimum 0.46 0.32 1.29 2.07

Total 100 100 100 300

Near Township Area

Based on importance value index (IVI), the highest IVI recorded (Table 3.39) at township

area is for Schima wallichii (37.44), followed by Toona ciliate (29.84), Glochidion

lanceolarium(26.82), Shorea robusta(24.23), Alangium chinense(20.05) and Callicarpa

arborea(18.92).

Table 3.39

Phytosociology of the trees near township area

S. No Name of the species RD RF RDo IVI


2 Toona ciliata 5.29 11.29 13.27 29.85

3 Glochidion lanceolarium 14.04 9.99 2.79 26.82

4 Shorea robusta 3.75 8.09 12.39 24.23

5 Alangium chinense 10.02 8.99 1.04 20.05

6 Callicarpa arborea 8.1 9.49 1.33 18.92

7 Cinnamomum tamala 7.05 3 6.32 16.37

8 Careya arborea 2.02 2.4 11.26 15.68

9 Tectona grandis 5.65 7.09 0.95 13.69




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10 Trema orientalis 4.11 4.2 1.39 9.7

11 Chrysophyllum roxburghii 4.54 3.4 1.66 9.6

12 Aegle marmelos 1.14 1.6 4.52 7.26

13 Castanopsis indica 1.14 1.1 4.82 7.06

14 Elaeocarpus floribundus 1.83 2.1 2.04 5.97

15 Dillenia pentagyna 1.53 1.5 2.43 5.46

16 Dillenia indica 1.31 2.1 1.91 5.32

17 Sapindus mukorossi 1.63 1 2.13 4.76

18 Baccaurea ramiflora 1.66 2.1 0.19 3.95

19 Aporosa octandra 2.71 0.6 0.49 3.8

20 Alstonia scholaris 0.72 0.8 1.92 3.44

21 Dalbergia lanceolaria 1.6 1.1 0.63 3.33

22 Litsea glutinosa 1.8 1.2 0.14 3.14

23 Parkia roxburghii 0.55 0.7 1.79 3.04

24 Terminalia arjuna 0.69 1 1.31 3

25 Duabanga grandiflora 0.52 0.9 1.1 2.52

26 Phyllanthus acidus 0.33 0.5 1.64 2.47

27 Mallotus philippensis 0.82 0.8 0.15 1.77

28 Syzygium fruticosum 0.2 0.3 0.84 1.34

29 Syzygium cumini 0.49 0.2 0.42 1.11

30 Anthocephalus chinensis 0.16 0.3 0.57 1.03

31 Aporosa octandra 0.29 0.5 0.07 0.86

32 Aphanamixis polystachya 0.23 0.3 0.27 0.8

33 Mangifera indica 0.13 0.3 0.37 0.8

34 Ardisia neriifolia 0.14 0.3 0.34 0.78

35 Antidesma acidum 0.2 0.4 0.15 0.75

36 Butea monosperma 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.7

37 Caryota urens 0.13 0.2 0.37 0.7

38 Albizia chinensis 0.23 0.3 0.16 0.69

39 Antidesma bunius 0.16 0.3 0.11 0.57

40 Terminalia bellirica 0.13 0.1 0.19 0.42

41 Spondias pinnata 0.1 0.2 0.03 0.33

42 Ficus auriculata 0.07 0.1 0.06 0.23

43 Beilschmiedia assamica 0.03 0.1 0.07 0.2

44 Azadirachta indica 0.07 0.1 0.02 0.19

Total 100 100 100 300




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It was also observed that a fewspecies including Eugenia bracteata, Chromolaena

odorata, Mikania micrantha, Lantana camara, Osbeckia nepalensis, and Tetrastigma

planicaule had quite good IVI (Table 3.40).

Table 3.40

Phytosociology of the shrubs and climbers near township area

S. No Name of the species RD RF RDo IVI

1 Eugenia bracteata 14.61 11.8 17.457 43.867

2 Chromolaena odorata 8.76 7.638 19.21 35.608


4 Lantana camara 6.81 8.333 5.32 20.463

5 Osbeckia nepalensis 10.38 7.638 0.1 18.118

6 Tetrastigma planicaule 8.11 9.027 0.753 17.89

7 Tetrastigma serrulatum 1.29 1.388 13.467 16.145



10 Artemisia dubia 4.54 4.861 2.101 11.502

11 Thladiantha cordifolia 4.65 4.166 1.799 10.615

12 Maesa chisia 2.91 2.776 3.746 9.432

13 Mimosa himalayana 2.59 3.471 1.331 7.392

14 Rubus ellipticus 2.91 2.776 1.153 6.839

15 Psilanthus bengalensis 1.29 2.083 2.999 6.372

16 Aconogonom molle 1.62 2.083 2.656 6.359

17 Mesia montana 1.94 2.083 1.421 5.444

18 Bambusa nutans 1.94 2.083 1.128 5.151

19 Holmskioldia sanguinea 1.94 2.083 1.007 5.03


21 Maesa macrophylla 0.97 2.088 0.516 3.574


23 Wallichia oblongifolia 0.72 0.702 1.19 2.612

24 Dioscorea bulbifera 0.97 1.388 0.041 2.399


26 Argyreia hookeri 0.32 0.694 0.124 1.138

27 Thunbergia grandiflora 0.32 0.694 0.019 1.033

Total 100 100 100 300




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The dominant species in terms of IVI value in the open forests are Ageratum

houstonianum (15.42), Globba racemosa (13.49), Oxalis corniculata (9.43), Boehmaria

macrophylla (8.74), Commelina suffruticosa (8.37) and others shown in (Table 3.41).

Table 3.41 Phytosociology of the herbs near township area

S.No. Name of the plant R.F R.D R.A IVI

1 Ageratum houstonianum 3.39 7.2 4.83 15.42

2 Globba racemosa 3.14 6 4.35 13.49


4 Boehmaria macrophylla 1.51 2.88 4.35 8.74

5 Commelina suffruticosa 3.48 2.96 1.93 8.37

6 Rheum nobile 3.46 2.99 1.58 8.03

7 Boehmeria ternifolia 2.82 2.99 1.93 7.74

8 Colebrookea oppositifolia 2.28 2.99 2.4 7.67

9 Lepidagathis incurva 1.95 2.48 2.9 7.33

10 Dryopteris sikkimensis 1.88 2.4 2.9 7.18

11 Acorus calamus 1.91 2.39 2.28 6.58

12 Begonia dioica 2.55 2.25 1.61 6.41





17 Dactylicapnos scandens 1.82 2.93 1.94 6.69

18 Triumfetta rhomboidea 1.13 2.44 2.9 6.47

19 Elsholtzia blanda 2.19 2.75 1.46 6.4


21 Fagopyrum esculentum 2.37 2.61 2.15 7.13

22 Centella asiatica 2.37 2.61 2.15 7.13


24 Gloriosa superba 2.91 2.61 1.54 7.06

25 Hedychium coccineum 2.55 2.61 1.9 7.06

26 Heracleum wallichii 2.64 2.61 1.79 7.04

27 Nasturtium officinale 2.64 1.56 1.74 5.94

28 Strobilanthes himalayana 2.09 1.43 2.38 5.9

29 Pouzolzia hirta 2.64 1.47 1.64 5.75

30 Rumex nepalensis 2.73 1.43 1.5 5.66




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31 Ophiopogon intermediu 2.73 1.43 1.5 5.66

32 Pteris biaurita 3.39 1.72 1.48 6.59



35 Rubus lineatus 1.09 1.15 2.31 4.55



38 Panax pseudoginseng 1.09 1.15 2.92 5.16





43 Isachne globosa 1.69 0.72 0.97 3.38

44 Adiantum philippense 1.13 0.72 1.45 3.3

45 Potentella lineata 0.73 0.68 1.73 3.14

46 Cyperus cyperoides 1.51 0.64 0.97 3.12

47 Costus speciosus 0.38 0.08 0.48 0.94


Total 100 100 100 300

Karmi (Left bank of the River Rammam at Power house)

A total of 39 species were recorded in the tree layer. The dominant and co-dominant

species were Shorea robusta and Bischofia javanica showing their values of IVI of

37.64 and 24.17 respectively, the highest values of density was also recorded for Shorea

robusta (Table 3.42). 40 species of shrubs and climbers were recorded in the shrub-

layer. The highest IVI score was attained by Eupatorium adenophorum (IVI 34.93)

followed by Chromolaena odorata (IVI 20.68) (Table 3.43). In the herb layer, 59

species were investigated through the process among which the dominant species was

Oplismenus compositus and the co-dominant was Oplismenus burmanii scoring IVI

values of 21.72 and 20.28 respectively. The maximum density and the abundance to

frequency ratio in the herb layer were recorded respectively for Oplismenus compositus

and Pteris biaurita (Table 3.44).




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Table 3.42

Phytosociology of the trees in Karmi area

S.No Plant name RA RD RF IVI

1 Shorea robusta 6.18 20.26 11.19 37.64

2 Bischofia javanica 7.49 11.45 5.22 24.17

3 Actinodaphne longipes 5.26 10.35 6.72 22.33

4 Pandanus furcatus 5.62 8.59 5.22 19.43

5 Tectona grandis 6.8 5.95 2.99 15.74

6 Ostodes paniculata 5.04 5.51 3.73 14.28

7 Albizzia chinensis 1.34 2.64 6.72 10.7

8 Haldina cordifolia 1.87 2.86 5.22 9.96

9 Litsea monopetala 4.37 2.86 2.24 9.47

10 Leucosceptrum cannum 2.62 2.86 3.73 9.22

11 Brassaiopsis mitis 2.42 2.64 3.73 8.79

12 Syzygium tetragonum 2.02 2.2 3.73 7.95

13 Betula alnoides 3.36 2.2 2.24 7.8

14 Ailanthus integrifolia 2.27 1.98 2.99 7.24

15 Castanopsis indica 2.02 1.76 2.99 6.76

16 Wrightia arborea 2.69 1.76 2.24 6.69

17 Duabanga grandiflora 3.02 1.32 1.49 5.84


19 Eurya acuminata 2.02 1.32 2.24 5.58


21 Persea macrantha 1.34 0.88 2.24 4.46

22 Gmelina arborea 3.02 0.66 0.75 4.43

23 Cryptomeria japonica 2.02 0.88 1.49 4.39

24 Rhus chinensis 1.01 0.66 2.24 3.91

25 Ficus neriifolia 1.51 0.66 1.49 3.67

26 Albizzia procera 2.02 0.44 0.75 3.2

27 Chukrasia tabularis 2.02 0.44 0.75 3.2

28 Cinnamomum tamala 2.02 0.44 0.75 3.2

29 Litsea elongata 2.02 0.44 0.75 3.2

30 Michelia doltsopa 2.02 0.44 0.75 3.2

31 Styrax serrulatus 2.02 0.44 0.75 3.2

32 Alangium chinense 1.01 0.44 1.49 2.94

33 Alcimandra cathcartii 1.01 0.44 1.49 2.94




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34 Ficus auriculata 1.01 0.44 1.49 2.94

35 Ficus religiosa 1.01 0.44 1.49 2.94

36 Albizzia gamblei 1.01 0.22 0.75 1.97

37 Magnifera sylvatica 1.01 0.22 0.75 1.97

38 Phyllanthus emblica 1.01 0.22 0.75 1.97

39 Quercus griffithii 1.01 0.22 0.75 1.97

Total 100 100 100 300

Table 3.43

Phytosociology of the shrubs and climbers in Karmi area

S.No. Plant name RA RD RF IVI

1 Eupatorium adenophorum 5.87 19.5 9.55 34.93

2 Chromolaena odorata 5.62 9.96 5.1 20.68


4 Lantana camara 4.84 6.43 3.82 15.1

5 Tetrastigma planicaule 2.5 4.98 5.73 13.21

6 Tetrastigma serrulatum 1.87 3.73 5.73 11.34



9 Artemisia dubia 2.5 3.32 3.82 9.64

10 Thladiantha cordifolia 3 3.32 3.18 9.5

11 Maesa chisia 1.25 2.49 5.73 9.47

12 Mimosa himalayana 4.37 2.9 1.91 9.19

13 Psilanthus bengalensis 1.61 2.49 4.46 8.55

14 Bambusa nutans 2.81 2.49 2.55 7.85

15 Maesa macrophylla 1.69 1.87 3.18 6.74


17 Dioscorea bulbifera 1.87 1.66 2.55 6.08


19 Argyreia hookeri 3.28 1.45 1.27 6.01

20 Debregeasia longifolia 2.19 1.45 1.91 5.55

21 Cassia floribunda 2.81 1.24 1.27 5.33

22 Flueggea virosa 2.81 1.24 1.27 5.33

23 Dioscorea hispida 1.41 1.24 2.55 5.2

24 Aconogonum molle 2.34 1.04 1.27 4.65

25 Flemingia stricta 2.34 1.04 1.27 4.65




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26 Thunbergia fragrans 2.34 1.04 1.27 4.65

27 Tithonia diversifolia 2.34 1.04 1.27 4.65

28 Jasminum nepalense 2.81 0.62 0.64 4.07

29 Smilax ovalifolia 2.81 0.62 0.64 4.07

30 Solanum torvum 2.81 0.62 0.64 4.07

31 Brugmansia suaveolens 1.25 0.83 1.91 3.99

32 Phlogacanthus thyrsiformis 1.87 0.83 1.27 3.98

33 Natsiatum herpeticum 0.94 0.62 1.91 3.47

34 Ardisia solanacea 1.41 0.62 1.27 3.3

35 Argyreia roxburghii 1.87 0.41 0.64 2.93

36 Mussaenda roxburghii 1.87 0.41 0.64 2.93

37 Pterygota alata 1.87 0.41 0.64 2.93

38 Solanum viarum 1.87 0.41 0.64 2.93

39 Cyclea bicristata 0.94 0.21 0.64 1.78

40 Meyna spinosa 0.94 0.21 0.64 1.78

Total 100 100 100 300

Table 3.44

Phytosociology of the herbs in Karmi area

S.No. Plant name RA RD RF IVI

1 Oplismenus compositus 4.49 11.44 5.8 21.72

2 Oplismenus burmanii 3.11 9.92 7.25 20.28


4 Ageratum houstonianum 3.39 7.2 4.83 15.42

5 Polystichum lentum 2.64 6.72 5.8 15.15

6 Globba racemosa 3.14 6 4.35 13.49

7 Spermacoce latifolia 3.01 5.76 4.35 13.12

8 Boehmaria macrophylla 1.51 2.88 4.35 8.73

9 Commelina suffruticosa 3.48 2.96 1.93 8.38


11 Pouzolzia hirta 2.48 2.64 2.42 7.54

12 Phymatosorus cuspidatus 2.92 2.48 1.93 7.33

13 Lepidagathis incurva 1.95 2.48 2.9 7.32

14 Dryopteris sikkimensis 1.88 2.4 2.9 7.18






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17 Triumfetta rhomboidea 1.13 1.44 2.9 5.47


19 Sida rhombifolia 1.6 1.36 1.93 4.89

20 Pteris biaurita 3.39 0.72 0.48 4.59

21 Capillipedium assimile 1.41 1.2 1.93 4.54



24 Physalis divaricata 2.26 0.96 0.97 4.19


26 Bidens pilosa 1.88 0.8 0.97 3.65

27 Pupalia atropurpurea 1.88 0.8 0.97 3.65

28 Isachne globosa 1.69 0.72 0.97 3.38

29 Adiantum philippense 1.13 0.72 1.45 3.3

30 Cyperus cyperoides 1.51 0.64 0.97 3.11

31 Biophytum reinwardtii 1.32 0.56 0.97 2.84

32 Drymaria cordata 1.32 0.56 0.97 2.84

33 Emelia sonchifolia 1.32 0.56 0.97 2.84

34 Pilea scripta 1.32 0.56 0.97 2.84

35 Equisetum diffusum 1.88 0.4 0.48 2.77

36 Neyraudia zollingeri 1.88 0.4 0.48 2.77

37 Rubia charaefolia 0.75 0.48 1.45 2.68


39 Urena lobata 1.13 0.48 0.97 2.58

40 Galinsoga parviflora 1.51 0.32 0.48 2.31

41 Peperomia pellucida 1.51 0.32 0.48 2.31

42 Rhynchoglossum obliquum 0.94 0.4 0.97 2.31

43 Strobilanthus himalayana 1.51 0.32 0.48 2.31

44 Begonia hatacoa 0.75 0.32 0.97 2.04

45 Crassocephalum crepidioides 0.75 0.32 0.97 2.04

46 Persicaria chinensis 0.75 0.32 0.97 2.04

47 Urtica dioica 0.75 0.32 0.97 2.04

48 Piper peepuloides 1.13 0.24 0.48 1.85

49 Setaria palmifolia 1.13 0.24 0.48 1.85


51 Phaseolus coccineus 0.56 0.24 0.97 1.77


53 Elastostema lineolatum 0.75 0.16 0.48 1.4




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54 Elephantopus scaber 0.75 0.16 0.48 1.4

55 Peliosanthes griffithii 0.75 0.16 0.48 1.4

56 Tectaria griffithii 0.75 0.16 0.48 1.4

57 Vallaris solanacea 0.75 0.16 0.48 1.4

58 Costus speciosus 0.38 0.08 0.48 0.94


Total 100 100 100 300

3.12.13 Biodiversity Indices

Species diversity indices can be considered as a measure of environmental quality and it

indicates the eco-system well being. The diversity measurements reflect as to how many

diverse species are present. Species diversity is the best measure of community structure

and it is sensitive to various environmental stresses. Smaller value of Simpson’s

Diversity Index shows healthy ecosystem and the higher value shows that an ecosystem

is under environmental stress. The vegetation (trees, Shrubs and Herbs) sampling was

carried out at four different sampling locations near Barrage site, Power house site and

near township area.

Tree species had Shannon diversity (H’) index is 3.96 at Salangdang area whereas lowest

in Kankiabang (3.76), shrubs and lainas had maximum Shannon diversity (H’) index is

3.38 and lowest in near tonship area and herbs have Simpson index having highest in

Karmi area (3.86) and lowest at Kankiabang (3.11). There is no major difference in the

Simpson index for all communities (Table 3.45).

Table 3.45

Biodiversity indices of all four study sites

Location Community Shannon-Wiener Index (H)

Simpson Index (1-D)

Salangdang

Trees 3.96 0.97

Shrubs and lainas 3.29 0.95

Herbs 3.62 0.96

Kankiabang

Trees 3.76 0.96

Shrubs and lainas 3.20 0.95

Herbs 3.11 0.93




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Near Township area

Trees 3.90 0.97

Shrubs and liana 3.00 0.93

Herbs 3.61 0.96

Karmi

Trees 3.89 0.98

Shrubs and liana 3.38 0.95

Herbs 3.86 0.97

Acorus calamus Actinodaphne sikkimensis

Aegle marmelos Ailanthus excels




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Alangium salvifolium Albizia odoratissima

Albizia procera Ampelocissus barbata

Anaphalis contorta Ardisia solanacea




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Arisaema tortuosum Bauhinia vahlii

Begonia picta Bischofia javanica

Bridelia stipularis Buchanania lanzan




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Careya arborea Caryota urens

Casearia tomentosa Cassia fistula

Centella asiatica Clerodendrum serratum




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Colebrookea oppositifolia Combretum album

Costus speciosus Cyathea spinulosa

Daphne bholua Debregeasia longifolia




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Dendrophthoe falcata Desmodium heterocarpon

Dichroa febrifuga Dillenia indica




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Dillenia pentagyna Dioscorea bulbifera

Elephantopus scaber Elsholtzia blanda

Entada rheedii Eurya Japonica




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Ficus benjamina Ficus semicordata

Firmiana colorata Garuga pinnata

Girardiana diversifolia Gloriosa superba




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Haldinia cordifolia Hiptage benghalensis

Holarrhena pubescens Houttynia cordata

Macaranga denticulata Milletia extensa




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Musa balbasiana Myrsine semiserrata

Oroxylum indicum Osbeckia stellata

Oxyspora paniculata Phoenix loureiroi




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Phyllanthus emblica Pinus roxburghii

Plumbago zeylanica Rauwolfia serpetina

Rhaphidophora decursiva Rhus chinensis




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Rhododendron arboretum Rubia cordifolia

Rubia manjith Rubus ellipticus

Rubus paniculatus Semicarpus anacardium




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Stereospermum chelonoides Stereospermum tetragonum

Strobilanthes capitata Terminalia chebula

Terminalia tomentosa Tetrastigma serrulatum




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Thysanolaena latifolia Toona ciliate

Trema orientalis Vaccinum vacciniaceum

Valeriana hardwickii Ventilago denticulate




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Woodfordia fruticosa Wrightia arborea

Zanthoxylum armatum Ziziphus rugosa

Fig 3.19 Photographs of various plant species in area




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3.12.14 Fauna

For the documentation of the faunal biodiversity of the study area with respect to birds,

reptiles, amphibians, and butterfly species, a baseline survey conducted in monsoon

period. To prepare a detailed report on the status of faunal diversity within study area of

10 Km radius around Rammam hydro power project area, field studies were conducted.

Both direct (sighting) and indirect (evidences) observations methods were used to survey

the faunal species around the study area. Additionally reference of relevant literatures

(published/unpublished) and dialogues with local people were also varied out to

consolidate the presence of faunal distribution in the area (Smith 1933-43, Ali and Ripley

1983, Daniel 1983, Prater 1993).

Livestock like cattle, goat, poultry, duck and pig are reared for dairy products, meat, egg

and for agriculture purpose. Majority of cattle are of local variety. Backyard poultry

farms are mostly common in this area.

All the direct sightings were recorded at the study period and also noted faunal species

after consultation with local villagers and secondary sources from DFO offices of

Department of Forests of Darjeeling district of West Bengal and West Sikkim district of

Sikkim states, Common five stripped Squirrel, Common Indian Mongoose, Indian

Rabbit, Large Indian Squirrel were observed during primary survey. Since birds are

considered to be the indicators for monitoring and understanding human impacts on

ecological systems attempt was made to gather quantitative data on the avifauna by walk

through survey within the study area and in the agricultural lands within the close

proximity to the rivers of this region is Lodhama and Rammam Rivers. Systematic

account of the fauna along with birds in the study area with the status of occurrence is

given in the Table 3.46.




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Table 3.46

List of major animal species reported in the study area

S.No. Scientific name Trade name Family IWPA,1972,

Schedule

Mammals

1 Elephas maximus Asian Elephant Elephantidae Schedule-I

2 Tupaia belangeri Northern Treeshrew Tupaiidae Schedule-II

3 Macaca assamensis Assam Macaque Cercopithecidae Schedule-II

4 Macaca mulatta Rhesus Macaque Cercopithecidae Schedule-II

5 Semnopithecus hector Tarai Gray Langur Cercopithecidae Schedule-II

6 Ratufa bicolor Black Giant Squirrel Sciuridae Schedule-II

7 Belomys pearsonii Hairy-footed Flying

Squirrel

Sciuridae Schedule-II

8 Eupetaurus cinereus Woolly Flying Squirrel Sciuridae Schedule-II

9 Funambulus pennantii Five- striped Palm

Squirrel

Sciuridae Schedule-IV

10 Tamiops macclellandii Himalayan Striped

Squirrel

Sciuridae Schedule-II

11 Cannomys badius Lesser Bamboo Rat Spalacidae Schedule-V

12 Neodon sikimensis Sikkim Vole Muridae Schedule-V

13 Tatera indica Indian Gerbil Muridae Schedule-V

14 Bandicota bengalensis Lesser Bandicoot Rat Muridae Schedule-V

15 Bandicota indica Greater Bandicoot Rat Muridae Schedule-V

16 Mus booduga Little Indian Field Mouse Muridae Schedule-V

17 Mus cervicolor Fawn-colored Mouse Muridae Schedule-V

18 Mus musculus House Mouse Muridae Schedule-V

19 Mus pahari Gairdner’s Shrewmouse Muridae Schedule-V

20 Niviventer eha Smoke- bellied Rat Muridae Schedule-V

21 Niviventer fulvescens Chestnut White- bellied

Rat

Muridae Schedule-V

22 Niviventer niviventer Himalayan White-bellied

Rat

Muridae Schedule-V

23 Rattus nitidus Himalayan Field Rat Muridae Schedule-V

24 Rattus pyctoris Himalayan Rat Muridae Schedule-V

25 Rattus rattus House Rat Muridae Schedule-V

26 Hystrix brachyura Malayan Porcupine Hystricidae Schedule-II




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27 Ochotona curzoniae Plateau Pika Ochotonidae Not assigned

28 Ochotona macrotis Large-eared Pika Ochotonidae Not assigned

29 Ochotona roylei Royle's Pika Ochotonidae Schedule-IV

30 Ochotona sikimaria Sikkim Pika Ochotonidae Not assigned

31 Neofelis nebulosa Clouded Leopard Felidae Schedule - I

32 Lepus nigricollis Indian Hare Leporidae Schedule-IV

33 Lepus oiostolus Wolly Hare Leporidae Not assigned

34 Crocidura attenuata Grey Shrew Soricidae Not assigned

35 Suncus etruscus Pygmy White-toothed

Shrew

Soricidae Not assigned

36 Suncus murinus House Shrew Soricidae Not assigned

37 Episoriculus macrurus Long-tailed Mountain

Shrew

Soricidae Not assigned

38 Euroscaptor micrura Himalayan Mole Talpidae Not assigned

39 Cynopterus sphinx Greater Short-nosed Fruit

Bat

Pteropodidae Schedule-V

40 Eonycteris spelaea Lesser Dawn Bat Pteropodidae Schedule-V

41 Megaerops niphanae Northern Tailless Fruit

Bat


42 Macroglossus sobrinus Greater Long-nosed Fruit

Bat


43 Pteropus giganteus Indian Flying Fox Pteropodidae Schedule-V

44 Rousettus leschenaultii Leschenault's Rousette Pteropodidae Schedule-V

45 Sphaerias blanfordi Blanford's Fruit Bat Pteropodidae Schedule-V

46 Rhinolophus affinis Intermediate Horseshoe

Bat

Rhinolophidae Not assigned

47 Rhinolophus

ferrumequinum

Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophidae Not assigned

48 Rhinolophus lepidus Blyth’s Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophidae Not assigned

49 Rhinolophus luctus Great Woolly Horseshoe

Bat

Rhinolophidae Not assigned

50 Rhinolophus trifoliatus Trefoil Horseshoe Bat Hipposideridae Not assigned

51 Coelops frithii Tailless Leaf-nosed Bat Hipposideridae Not assigned

52 Taphozous nudiventris Naked- rumped Tomb

Bat

Megadermatidae Not assigned

53 Tadarida teniotis European Free-tailed Bat Molossidae Not assigned

54 Arielulus circumdatus Bronze Sprite Molossidae Not assigned




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55 Pipistrellus

coromandra

Indian Pipistrelle Molossidae Not assigned

56 Hypsugo cadornae Cadorna's Pipistrelle Molossidae Not assigned

57 Hypsugo joffrei Joffre’s Pipistrelle Molossidae Not assigned

58 Tylonycteris pachypus Lesser Bamboo Bat Molossidae Not assigned

59 Myotis annectans Hairy-faced Bat Molossidae Not assigned

60 Myotis formosus Hodgson’s Bat Molossidae Not assigned

61 Myotis sicarius Mandelli’s Mouse- eared

Myotis

Molossidae Not assigned

62 Myotis siligorensis Himalayan Whiskered

Myotis

Molossidae Not assigned

63 Harpiocephalus harpia Lesser Hairy-winged Bat Molossidae Not assigned

64 Murina aurata Little Tube- nosed Bat Molossidae Not assigned

65 Kerivoula picta Painted Woolly Bat Molossidae Not assigned

66 Felis chaus Jungle Cat Felidae Schedule-II

67 Pardofelis marmorata Marbled Cat Felidae Schedule-II

68 Panthera pardus Leopard Felidae Schedule-I

69 Paguma larvata Masked Palm Civet Viverridae Schedule-II

70 Viverricula indica Small Indian Civet Viverridae Schedule-II

71 Herpestes

auropunctatus

Small Indian Mongoose Herpestidae Schedule-IV

72 Herpestes edwardsii Grey Mongoose Herpestidae Schedule-II

73 Herpestes urva Crab-eating Mongoose Herpestidae Schedule-II

74 Canis aureus Golden Jackal Canidae Schedule-II

75 Cuon alpinus Dhole Canidae Schedule-II

76 Vulpes bengalensis Bengal Fox Canidae Schedule-II

77 Vulpes vulpes Red Fox Canidae Schedule-II

78 Ursus thibetanus Asiatic Black Bear Ursidae Schedule-II

79 Ailurus fulgens Red Panda Ailuridae Schedule-I

80 Martes foina Beech Marten Mustelidae Schedule-II

81 Melogale personata Large-toothed Ferret

Badger

Mustelidae Schedule-II

82 Mustela altaica Mustelidae Schedule-II

83 Mustela kathiah Yellow-bellied Weasel Mustelidae Schedule-II

84 Mustela sibirica Siberian Weasel Mustelidae Schedule-II

85 Sus scrofa Wild Boar Suidae Schedule-III

86 Axis axis Chital Cervidae Schedule-III




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87 Muntiacus vaginalis Northern Red Muntjac Cervidae Schedule-III

88 Rusa unicolor Sambar Cervidae Schedule-III

Aves

89 Corvus splendens Common house crow Corvidae Schedule-V

90 Corvus macrorhynchos Jungle crow Corvidae Schedule-IV

91 Pycnonatus cafer Red vented bulbul Pycnonotidae Schedule-IV

92 Pycnonotus jocosus Red whiskered bulbul Pycnonotidae Schedule-IV

93 Dicrurus adsimilis Common drongo Dicruridae Schedule-IV

94 Acridotheres tristis Common house myna Sturnidae Schedule-IV

95 Sturnus contra The pied myna Sturnidae Schedule-IV

96 Passer domesticus House Sparrow Passeridae Schedule-IV

97 Dendrocitta vagabunda Indian Tree pie Corvidae Schedule-IV

98 Turdoides caudatus Common babbler Leiothrichidae Schedule-IV

99 Dicrurus paradiseus Great Racket tailed

Drongo

Dicruridae Schedule-IV

100 Chloropsis jerdoni Jerdons chloropsis Irenidae Schedule-IV

101 Ploceus philippinus Striated green bulbul Ploceidae Schedule-IV

102 Copsychus

malabaricus

The shama Muscicapidae Schedule-IV

103 Prinia subflava Indian Wren Warbler Cisticolidae Schedule-IV

104 Cisticola juncidis Streaked fantail warbler Cisticolidae Schedule-IV

105 Orthotomus sutorius Tailor bird Cisticolidae Schedule-IV

106 Acridotheres fuscus Jungle myna Sturnidae Schedule-IV

107 Gracula religiosa Hill myna Sturnidae Schedule-IV

108 Oriolus xanthornus Black headed oriole Oriolidae Schedule-IV

109 Motacilla alba White wagtail Motacillidae Schedule-IV

110 Motacila citreola Yellow headed wagtail Motacillidae Schedule-IV

111 Motacilla cinerea Grey wagtail Motacillidae Schedule-IV

112 Lonchura punctulata Spotted munia Estrildidae Schedule-IV

113 Amandava amandava Red munia Estrildidae Schedule-IV

114 Lonchura striata White munia Estrildidae Schedule-IV

115 Nectarinia asiatica Purple sunbird Nectariniidae Schedule-IV

116 Nectarinia zeylanica Purple rumped sunbird Nectariniidae Schedule-IV

117 Aethopyga siparaja Indian yellow backed

sunbird

Nectariniidae Schedule-IV

118 Pericrocotus flammeus Scarlet minivet Campephagidae Schedule-IV

119 Coracias benghalensis Indian roller of the blue Coraciidae Schedule-IV




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jay

120 Merops orientalis Common Bee eater Meropidae Schedule-IV

121 Halcyon smyrnensis White breasted king

fisher

Alcedinidae Schedule-IV

122 Alcedo atthis Common kingfisher Alcedinidae Schedule-IV

123 Halcyon pileata Black capped king fisher Alcedinidae Schedule-IV

124 Upupa epops Indian Hoopoe Upupidae Schedule-IV

125 Cuculus micropterus Indian cukoo Cuculidae Schedule-IV

126 Clamator jacobinus Pied crested cukoo Cuculidae Schedule-IV

127 Centropus sinensis Crow pheasant Cuculidae Schedule-IV

128 Eudynamys scolopacea Common Koel Cuculidae Schedule-IV

129 Psittacula

cyanocephala

Blossom-headed parakeet Psittaculidae Schedule-IV

130 Psittacula fasciatus Indian Red breatsed

Parakeet

Psittaculidae Schedule-IV

131 Psittacula krameri Eastern rose ringed

Parakeet

Psittaculidae Schedule-IV

132 Ketupa zeylonensis Brown fish owl Strigidae Schedule-IV

133 Otus scops Scops owl Strigidae Schedule-IV

134 Spilopelia chinensis Indian spotted Dove Columbidae Schedule-IV

135 Gallus gallus Red jungle fowl Phasianidae Schedule-IV

136 Gallicrex cinerea Water cocks Rallidae Schedule-IV

137 Grus antigone Sarus crane Gruidae Schedule-IV

138 Metopidius indicus Bronze winged jacana Jacanidae Schedule-IV

139 Hydrophasianus

chirurgus

Pheasant tailed jacana Jacanidae Schedule-IV

140 Burhinus oedicnemus Stone Curiew Burhinidae Schedule-IV

141 Vanellus indicus Red wattled lapping Charadriidae Schedule-IV

142 Ciconia episcopus White necked stork Ciconiidae Schedule-IV

143 Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret Ardeidae Schedule-IV

144 Ardeola grayii Paddy bird or the pond

Heron

Ardeidae Schedule-IV

145 Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron Ardeidae Schedule-IV

146 Ixobrychus

cinnamomeus

Chestnut Bittern Ardeidae Schedule-IV

147 Anas clypeata Shovellers Anatidae Schedule-IV

148 Anas crecca Common Teal Anatidae Schedule-IV




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149 Nettapus

coromandelianus

Cotton Teal Anatidae Schedule-IV

150 Dinopium benghalensis Lesser Golden Backed

Woodpecker

Picidae Schedule-IV

151 Fulica atra Common coot Rallidae Schedule-IV

152 Anhinga melanogaster Indian Darter Anhingidae Schedule-IV

153 Himantopus

himantopus

Black winged Stilts Recurvirostridae Schedule-IV

154 Anastomus oscitans Openbilled stork Ciconiidae Schedule-IV

155 Gyps himalayensis Himalayan Griffon

Vulture

Accipitridae Schedule-I

156 Gyps bengalensis White rumped Vulture Accipitridae Schedule-I

157 Gyps indicus Slender Billed Vulture Accipitridae Schedule-I

158 Haliaeetus leucoryphus Palla's fish Eagle Accipitridae Schedule-I

159 Anser indicus Bar headed goose Anatidae Schedule-IV

160 Leptoptilos javanicus Lesser Adjutant Stork Ciconiidae Schedule-IV

161 Leptoptilos dubius Greater Adkitant Stork Ciconiidae Schedule-IV

162 Netta rufina Red crested Ponchard Anatidae Schedule-IV

163 Anas penelope Eurasian wigeon Anatidae Schedule-IV

164 Anas cypeata Northern Shoveller Anatidae Schedule-IV

165 Anas acuta Garganey Anatidae Schedule-IV

166 Anser anser Greylagloose Anatidae Schedule-IV

167 Anas poecilorhyncha Spot billed duck Anatidae Schedule-IV

168 Anas platyrhynchos Mallard Anatidae Schedule-IV

169 Tyto alba Barn owl Tytonidae Schedule-IV

Amphibians

170 Rana tigrina Frog Ranidae Schedule-IV

171 Hoplobatrachus

bengalensis

Indian bull frog Dicroglossidae Schedule-IV

172 Fejervarya limnocharis Cricket frog Schedule-IV

Reptiles

173 Naja naja Binocellate cobra Elapidae Schedule-II

174 Varanus bengalensis Monitor Lizard Varanidae Schedule-II

175 Xenochropis piscator Asiatic water snake Colubridae Schedule-II

176 Naza kaouthia Monocled cobra Elapidae Schedule-II

177 Bungarus coeruleus Indian krait Elapidae Schedule-IV

178 Vipera russellis Russel's Viper Crotalidae Schedule-II




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179 Ptyas mucosus Rat snake Colubridae Schedule-II

180 Calotes versicolor Garden Lizard Agamidae Schedule-II

181 Hemidactylis brooki Brooks geeko Gekkonidae Schedule-II

182 Gongylophis conicus Common Sand Boa Boidae Schedule-II

Butterflies

183 Junonia orithya Blue Pansy Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

184 Tirumala limniace Blue Tiger Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

185 Junonia iphita Chocolate Pansy Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

186 Euthalia garuda Common Baron Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

187 Jamides celeno Common Cerulean Lycaenidae Schedule-IV

188 Catopsilia pomona Common emigrant Pieridae Schedule-IV

189 Eurema hecabe Common Grass yellow Pieridae Schedule-IV

190 Euploea core Common Indian Crow Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

191 Delias eucharis Common Jezebel Pieridae Schedule-IV

192 Phalanta phalantha Common Leopard Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

193 Papilio polytes Common Mormon Papilionidae Schedule-IV

194 Neptis hylas Common sailor Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

195 Parantica algae Glassy Tiger Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

196 Euchrysops cnejus Gram Blue Lycaenidae Schedule-IV

197 Hypolimnas bolina Great Egg Fly Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

198 Junonia atlites Grey Pansy Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

199 Spialia galba Indian Skipper Hesperiidae Schedule-IV

200 Junonia lemonias Lemon Pansy Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

201 Junonia almana Peacock Pansy Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

202 Anaphaeis aurota Pioneer Pieridae Schedule-IV

203 Danaus chrysippus Plain Tiger Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

204 Abisara echerius Plum Judy Riodinidae Schedule-IV

205 Danaus genutia Striped Tiger Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

206 Junonia hierta Yellow Pansy Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

207 Atrophaneura

polyeuctes

Common windmill Papilinoidae Schedule-IV

208 Eurema sani Chocolate Grass yellow Hespariidae Schedule-IV

209 Cepora nadina Lesser gul Pieridae Schedule-IV

210 Porantica melaneus Chocolate Tiger Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

211 Poritia hewitsoni Common gem Lycaenidae Schedule-IV

212 Rapala pheretima Copper flash Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

213 Hypolycaena erylus Common tit Lycaenidae Schedule-IV




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214 Symbrenthia hysselis Himalayan Jester Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

215 Spindasis lohita Long-banded silverline Lycaenidae Schedule-IV

216 Bhagadatta austenia Grey Commodore Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

217 Aglais cashmiriensis Indian Tortoiseshell Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

218 Apatura ambica Indian Purple Emperor Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

219 Lethe sinorix Tailed Red Forester Nymphalidae Schedule-IV

Source: Primary study and public consultation, State Forest Departments of West Bengal and Sikkim

3.12.15 Butterflies

A total of 37 butterfly species were recorded during the present study (Table 3.46).

Species such as Chocolate Pansy, Common Jezebel, Plain Tiger, Common Crow, and

Common Grass Yellow were commonly seen in and around the proposed project site.

Crimson Rose, Blue Mormon and Crimson Rose are common species found occurring in

the present study area, the distributions of butterflies are restricted to the India and

Srilanka (Kunte, 2000). The photographs of butterflies shown in Fig 3.20

Danaus chrysippus

Euchrysops cnejus

Euthalia garuda

Jamides celeno




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Junonia orithya

Neptis hylas

Phalanta phalantha

Tirumala limniace

Fig 3.20 Photos of Butterflies

3.12.16 Aquatic ecology

Water and ecological quality are the important concern for human use of lentic and lotic

ecosystems. These water bodies have significant economic values including hydropower

generation, supplying water for drinking water for irrigation, providing food via fish and

aquatic products, and preserving the health and biodiversity of important life support

ecosystem. However, all these functions depend on a well-balanced environment in terms

of its physical, chemical and biological variables. Like water quality monitoring,

biological or aquatic monitoring is an ecosystem assessment tool which can be used as

the basis for management programmes, restoring and maintaining the physico-chemical

and biological integrity of freshwater. Live organisms provide valuable information by

their presence, absence and abundance regarding their surrounding habitat and can be

used to evaluate the local environmental impact by their physical, chemical and

biological properties and their cumulative effects.




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Biological parameters are very important in the aquatic ecosystem, since they determine

the productivity of a water body. The present study to assess the aquatic ecological status,

phytoplankton, zooplankton, macro-invertebrates and benthos was monitored within

study area of project. Primary productivity is an important indicator of pollution level in

any aquatic ecosystem. Fish production is dependent on production of zooplanktons

which in turn is dependent on the phytoplankton production or primary productivity. All

these are related to the physio-chemical characteristics of the water. Primary data

regarding fisheries, fish diversity composition, their migration and breeding grounds has

been collected from the study area, where as secondary data on fish and fisheries has also

been collected from Fisheries Department of Darjeeling.

3.12.17 Methodology

Collection and preservation of Phytoplankton sample: The plankton samples were

collected from sub surface water. In the case of phytoplankton, 500 ml sample water was

collected in polyethylene bottles and 1ml of Lugol’s solution was added for fixation and

preservation. The samples were centrifuged and decanted. A volume of 10 ml was

collected in double stoppered polyethylene bottles for further qualitative analysis of

phytoplankton. Identification of phytoplankton was dome with the help of standard books

and monographs (Turner, 1892; smith, 1924, Ward and Whipple 1959).

Collection and preservation of Zooplankton sample: The zooplankton samples were

collected by filtering 100 liters of sub-surface water through plankton net made up of

bolting silk cloth no 20. A sub sample of 30 ml was collected again, in polyethylene

double stoppered bottles and 4-5 drops of formalin and glycerin were added. The samples

were stored for further qualitative and quantitative study of zooplanktonic organism. The

identification of zooplankton was done up to species in most cases, according to the

reference books including that of Ward and Wipples (1959), Koste (1978), Battish (1992)

and Dhanapathi (2000).

Collection and preservation of macro-invertebrate and benthic samples: Samples have

been collected on monthly basis with the help of Ekman’s dredge, scoop and D-frame




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nets. Samples were sieved through a sieve having mesh size of 0.5 to 0.6 mm. The

animals were picked up by hand picking and preserved in 4% formalin solution.

Fig 3.21 Collection of Water Samples for Aquatic Study

3.12.18 Sampling locations

Surface water samples were collected from 4 locations which are shown in Fig 3.22 for

analysis of aquatic ecological status. Sampling location details are provided in Table 3.47




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Fig 3.22 Aquatic ecological sampling locations




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Table 3.47

Locations of aquatic samples

S.No. Location Latitude Longitude Direction

1 Lodhama River 27°6'38.25"N 88°8'4.41"E SW

2

Upstream Side of Ramam River

27°7'2.92"N 88°8'3.90"E NW

3

Second Order Stream at Samalbong Village

27°6'33.88"N 88°9'38.72"E E

4 Near Power House Site 27° 7'27.26"N 8°13'19.89"E NE

3.12.19 Phytoplankton

A total of 45 species of phytoplankton were observed in diffent locations. Among the

Phytoplanktons highest (31 species) recorded at up stream side of the Rammam River

and lowest species (22) recorded at powerhouse site. Details list of the Phytoplankton

community recorded from the study area is presented in Table 3.48

Table 3.48

List of phytoplankton species observed in various sampling sites in the study area

S.No. Taxa Lodhama River


Second Order Stream at

Samalbong Village

Near Power House

Site 1 Achnanthes affinis + + + +

2 Achnanthes biasolttiana + - - +

3 Achnanthes brevipes - + - -

4 Achnanthes exigua + - - -

5 Achnanthes gidderula - + + +

6 Achnanthes microcephala + + + +

7 Achnanthes minitussima + + - -

8 Achnanthes spp + + + +

9 Amphora eneta + - - +

10 Anomoeoneis serianus - + + +

11 Ceratonies - - - +

12 Ceratonies arcus - - - +

13 Cocconies placentula + - - +




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14 Cocconies vulgare - + + +

15 Cymbella affinis + - + +

16 Cymbella linearis - - - +

17 Cymbella nagaperense + - - -

18 Cymbella spp + - + +

19 Cymbella turgida + + + -

20 Cymbella ventricosa - + + -

21 Dia vulgare - + - -

22 Diatoma anceps - + - -

23 Diatoma hiemale + + + -

24 Diplonies spp - + - +

25 Eun prearuta - + - -

26 Eunotia lunaris + - + +

27 Eunotia spp - + - +

28 Fragilaria capucina + - + -

29 Fragilaria construens + + - -

30 Fragilaria familiaris + + + +

31 Fragilaria pinnata + + + +

32 Gomphonema intricatum + + + -

33 Gomphonema oilvaceoides + + + -

34 Gomphonema olivaceum + - + +

35 Gomphonema parvulum - + + -

36 Gomphonema undulatum + - + +

37 Navicula microcephala + + + -

38 Navicula minima - + + -

39 Navicula mitica colini - + - -

40 Navicula radiosa - + - -

41 Navicula spp + + + -

42 Raphonies amphiceros - + - +

43 Reimaria sinuata - + - -

44 Synedra ac + + + -

45 Synedra ulna - + + -

The density observed at various sampling locations ranged from 8 to 40 no./ml for the

four sampling locations which is an indicator of low phytoplankton productivity. Since




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phytoplankton is first link in a food chain, the phytoplankton density is an indicator of

low primary productivity of river water at the project site.

3.12.20 Zooplankton

A total 13 species of the zooplankton observed in different locations. The density ranged

from 2 to 3 no./ml during study period from 3 to 4 no./litre. The list of zooplankton

species observed during the surveys conducted in study period and is given in Table 3.49

Table 3.49

Zooplanktons observed in various sampling sites

S.No. Taxa Lodhama River


Second Order Stream at

Samalbong Village

Near Power House Site

1 Archella + + + +

2 Bosmina + + + -

3 Brachionus + + + -

4 Cypris + - + +

5 Daphnia spp. - + + -

6 Diffugia lebes + - + +

7 Diffugia spp + + + -

8 Keratella - + + -

9 Lecane signifera - + - -

10 Lecane spp - + - -

11 Mesocyclops + + + -

12 Philodina - + - +

13 Trichocera spp. - + - -

3.12.21 Macro-Benthic Biota

The macro-benthic communities consist of invertebrate & vertebrates. Among the

invertebrates insects contribute nearly 80% of the total biota. There are four orders of

insects and certain families of benthic fish species whose representatives in some stage

are found in water and that all of them are met with in greater or lesser numbers as clear

and rapid flowing waters in project area. The insect reported in the areas belongs to

Plecoptera, Ephimero-ptera, Trichoptera and Diptera.




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During the survey of macro-benthic insects, nymphs of Trichoptera were commonly

observed in rapid flowing streams. Among Plecoptera, nymphs of Isoperlidae (Ietimes)

recorded from swift flowing streams. The nymphs of Ephemerid insects recorded belongs

to Heptogenidae Ephemerellidae Bactidae. The most abundant were Ecohyonurus,

Epeorus, Iron, Heptogenia and Rithrogena. The species recorded amongst Bactidae were

represented by Bactinae (Bactis) and Ephemerellinae (Ephemerella). The larvae of

Diptera which have been recorded belongs to Clucidae and Chiromidae.

The macro-benthic vertebrates recorded include Acrossocheilus hexgonalepis in pools;

Schizothorax, Barilius living permanently in swift water and Garra, Naemacherilus,

Glyptothorax and Pseudechneis living attached to substratum.

Aquatic macrophytes belonging to species namely Equisetum spp., Adiantum spp. and

Selanginella spp. were recorded along the bank of river Rammam.

3.12.22 Primary Productivity

The phytoplankton primary productivity was determined by light and dark bottle method.

The water samples for determination of the productivity were collected in light and dark

BOD bottles. Three replicates were maintained for each sample. The experimental bottles

were kept for 4 hours in the river from where the water samples were collected.

Winkler’s method was used for determination of oxygen in the light and dark bottles.

Following formula was used for calculation of phytoplankton primary productivity.

Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) =

Gross Primary Productivity (GPP)=O2 content of light bottle - O2 content of dark bottle x 1000 x 0.375 (mgC/m3/hour)

1.2 x Incubation hour

Net Primary Productivity (NPP) = O2 content of light bottle - O2 content of initial bottle x 1000 x 0.375 (mgC/m3/hour)

1.2 x Incubation hour

It was found from the analysis that Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) and Net Primary

Productivity (NPP) of the river ranged between 38.12 to 44.27 and 27.03 to 28.91

mgC/m3/hour during study period and this level indicate low to moderate biological




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productivity. The productivity measure of during study period at all sampling locations is

given in Table 3.50

Table 3.50

Phytoplankton Primary Productivity in various sampling sites

Sampling site Gross Primary Productivity (mg

C/m3/hour)

Net Primary Productivity(mg

C/m3/hour)

Lodhama River 44.27 27.03


38.12 28.04

Second Order Stream at Samalbong Village

39.84 28.91

Near Power House Site 32.45 26.7

3.12.23 Fisheries

Fish is one of the most important species of the aquatic fauna as well as the important

source of proteinaceus food for human beings. No scientific documentation on fish life is

available on River Rammam. However, some published account of Teesta-Rangeet river

system is available. A total of 61 species have been recorded by different authors for

Teesta-Rangeet River. This list is outlined in Table 3.51

Table 3.51

List of fish species recorded from Teesta Rangeet river system

_________________________________________________________________________

1. Chela laubuca (Hamilton) 2. Salmostoma bacaila (Hamilton) 3. Barilius bacaila (Hamilton) 4. B.barna(Hamilton) 5. B. bendelisis(Hamilton) 6. B. bola (Hamilton) 7. B. schacra (Hamilton) 8. B. tileo (Hamilton) 9. B. vagra (Hamilton) 10. Danio.(Danio) acquipinnatus (McClelland) 11. Danio (Danio) dangila (Hamilton) 12. Danio (Danio) davario (Hamilton)




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13. Danio (Brachydanio) rerio (Hamilton) 14. Esomus danrica (Hamilton) 15. Rasbora daniconius (Hamilton) 16. Amblypharyngodon mola (Hamilton) 17. Aspidopario jaya (Hamilton) 18. Puntius caschonius (Hamilton) 19. P. stigma (Cuvierand valencrneo) 20. P. tieto (Hamilton) 21. Cirrhina reba (Hamilton) 22. Crossocheilus latius latius (Hamilton) 23. Garra lamta (Hamilton) 24. G. annandalei (Hora) 25. G. gotyla gotyla (Gray) 26. Labeo boga (Hamilton) 27. L. dero (Heekal) 28. L. dyocheilus (McClelland) 29. L. pangusia (Hamilton) 30. Tor putitora (Hamilton) (M) 31. Acrossocheilus hexagonolepis (McClelland) (M) 32. Semiplotus semiplotus (McClelland) 33. Schizothorax richardsonii (Grary) (M) 34. Schizopyge progastus (McClelland) 35. Psilorhynchus balitora (Hamilton) 36. P. sneatio (Hamilton) 37. Aborichtys elongatus Hora 38. Lepidocephalus annandalei Chandhuri 39. Lepidocephalus guntea (Hamilton) 40. Naemacheilus botia (Hamilton) 41. N. cosiea (Hamilton) 42. N. devdevi (Hora) 43. N. rupecola rupecola (McClelland) 44. N. Schebbearei (Hora) 45. Somileptis gongota (Hamilton) 46. Mystus bleekeri (Day) 47. M. vittatus (Block) 48. Amblyceps mangois (Hora) 49. Bagarius bagarius (Hamilton) 50. Hora hora(Hamilton) 51. Euchiloglanis hodgarti (Hora) 52. Glyptothorax horavi (Shaw and Schebbeare) 53. G. lineatus (Day) 54. Pseudeehneis suleatus (McClelland) 55. Sisore rhabdophorus (Hamilton)




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56. Xenentodon cancila (Hamilton) 57. Channa gachua (Hamilton) 58. C. merulius (Bloch) 59. Macrognathus aevleatus (Bloch) 60. Mastacembelus armatus (Lacepedi) 61. M. pancalus (Hamilton)

____________________________________________________________________________

(M) - Migratory species

Of the 61 species recorded in Teesta–Rangit river system, 10 species were recorded in

River Rammam. The list of the fish species observed in River Rammam is given in Table

3.52

Table 3.52

Fish species recorded in Rammam River

Scientific Name Local Name Schizothorax richardsonii Asala Schizothorax progastus Asala Semiplotus semiplotus Chepti Acrossacheilus hexagonalepis Katlay Gara anandolei Buduna Glyptothorax stiatus Kavry Glyptothorax sp. Dhodray Pseudochneis suleatus Kabray Barilius barna Khasray Naemacheilus sikkimensis Godela

The physiographic feature of the River Rammam signals that occurrence of fish life in the

river is typical of a mountain torrent. Sample netting with local cast net was done at

various locations i.e. upstream of barrage/dam site, downstream of power house site,

between barrage/dam site and power house in River Rammam and its tributaries. The cast

method (1 cm mesh size) carried out in rapid stretch and pool was carried out.

A gill net was also put overnight across the river at barrage/dam site. The various fish

species caught confirm the presence of Schizothorax sp. and Pseudocheneis sp. to

understand the fish composition and distribution pattern sample netting with local cast net

was also done at various locations i.e. upstream of barrage site, downstream of power




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house site, between barrage site and power house in River Rammam and its tributaries.

The cast method (1 cm mesh size) carried out in rapid stretch and pool confirm that

Schizothorax contributes about 62.5% of total catch followed by Acrossocheilus

hexagonolepis (14.5%) Gara (14.6%) and others (8.4%). However, during winter season

the catch dominated by Schizothorax sp. (60%) followed by Pseudocheneis sp. (20.5%)

and others (19.5%). The size of Schizothorax ranged 50-100 mm in total length and 20 to

150 gm in weight. The catch per man hour has been worked out as 250 gm.

3.12.24 National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries

Singalila National Park

Singalila National Park Eco-sensitive zone is located on the West side of project area at a

distance of about 7.1 km from the barrage site. Singalila National Park is a

transboundary-protected area at the border with Nepal. Singalila National Park is located

at 27°14'N and 88°07'E, in the north-western part of Darjeeling District. Its total area is

about 78.6 km², and it is well known owing to the Sandakphu trekking route that runs

through it. It is bordered on the north by the state of Sikkim, west by the country of Nepal

and to the south & east by the state of West Bengal. The Core Area of Singalila National

Park is located on the Singalila Ridge at altitudes ranging from 8000 - 12000 ft in

Darjeeling district of West Bengal, although the average altitude of the Buffer area is

about 6000 ft. The Park was declared as wildlife Sanctuary in 1986, and was made a

National Park in 1992. The two highest peaks Sandakphu (3630 m) and Phalut (3600 m)

are located on the ridge and inside the Park.

The Rammam and Srikhola Rivers flow down through the Park. This forest became part

of Darjeeling District (West Bengal) and in 1992, it was declared as the National Park for

the conservation of this forest and was placed under the Wildlife Forest Department and

named “Singalila National Park”. The main motivation of the Government in declaring

Singalila forest as Singalila National Park was that it was a home to 80-90 species of

mammals, and several threatened medicinal plant species such as Aconitum spp.,

Dactylorhiza sp., Rheum nobile, Valeriana jatamansi, Picrorhiza kooroa, Swertia




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chirayita, Himalayan ginseng etc. The vegetation of this area has extended vertically in

three successive layers. The average height of the upper storey of the communities, with

the cover of dominant tree species, stretched from 9 m to 18 m. Next was the layer of tree

saplings and shrubs; the middle storey was mainly up to 2 m height on the sites

dominated by Yushania maling and in other places from 0.5 - 1.5 m with various shrubs

species like Gaultheria, Berberis, Cotoneaster, Rosa, and mixed with scattered shrubs

like Daphne, Rubus, Aconogonum, Cardamine, and Osbeckia. The dense growth of Y.

maling reaching upto 3400 m asl made it an important floristic group of the region.

Berberis species spreads throughout the transect with the greater density along 3100 m to

3600 m asl. The other less predominant shrubs were Rosa sp., Gaultheria sp., and

Aconogonum molle. The ground layer was represented by herbaceous flora; there were

appreciable amount of moss, lichens, mushrooms, and ferns. We recorded marked

presence of Berberis aristata, Gaultheria pyroloides, Gaultheria trichophylla, and Rosa

sp. above 3300 m asl, reflected by their high relative density and high relative frequency.

However, we observed frequent presence of B. aristata in many sites with a relatively

high frequency. In the higher ranges beyond 3400 m asl, Iris decora along with the scrubs

of Rhododendron spp., forms the common vegetation composition. The location map of

Rammam HEPP Stage-III with Singalila National Park and Barsey Rhododendron

Wildlife Sanctury ESZ boundary is shown in Fig 3.23. The flora reported in the Singalila

National Park is given in Table 3.53.

Table 3.53

Vegetation reported in Singalila National Park

Altitude (2400-2700 m ) Altitude(2700- 3000m) Altitude (>3000 m)

Quercus pachyphylla Quercus spp. Abies densa

Quercus lamellosa Betula utilis Tsuga brunoniana

Quercus lineata Sorbus cuspidata Rhododendron campanulatum

Machilus odoratissima Castanopsis spp. Rhgododendrou barbatam

Acer campbellii Lkitsea elougata Rhododendrou cinnabarium

Mellisoma wallichii Tsuga brannoniana Rhododendrou hodgsonii

Castanopsis tribuloides Arundinaria maling Rhododendrou grande

Magnolia campbellii Arundinaria aristata Rhododendrou galeoneri




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Rhododendron arboreuem Daphne spp. Rhododendrou lepidotum

Viburnum erubesans Berberis aristata Arundiwaria spp.

Dapne cannabina Piptanthus spp. Cotoneaster microphylla

Symplocas spp. Rhododendrou grandi Betula utilis

Schefflera impressa

Some threatened species of animals, such as Red Panda, Leopard, Chinese Pangolin,

Himalayan Black Bear, Red Throated Hill Partridge, Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant,

and Slender Billed Babbler etc. are found in this National Park. The park has major

mammalian fauna like the Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens), Himalayan Black Bear

(Selenarctos thibetanus) Leopard cat (Felis benghalensis), Clouded Leopard (Neofeis

nebulosa), Barking Deer (Muntiacus muntjak) Serow (Capricornis sumatraensis), Yellow

Throated Marten (Matres flavigula), Wild Boar (Sus Scrofa), Himalayan Mouse Hare

(Ochotona royle), Wild dog (Cunon alpinus), Porcupine (Hystrix indica) and fox (Vulpes

vulpes). Of the above mentioned species, five species belong to endangered category.

These are Red Panda (Ailurus sp.), Leopard Cat (Felis benghalensis), Barking deer

(Muntiacus muntjak), Wild boar (Sus scrofa), Fox (Vulpes vulpes).

Barsey Rododendron Sanctuary

The Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary (BRS) Eco-sensitive zone is at a distance of 4.2 km

from the barrage site on NW side. The sanctuary established in 1998, occupies an area of

104 km2 sharing its border with Nepal to the west and West Bengal to the south over the

Rambong Khola in the Singalila Range. The altitudinal gradient of 2200–4100 m asl

provides a wide range of topography leading to various forest types, viz., sub-tropical

moist deciduous forest (2200–2400 m), wet temperate forest (2400–2700 m), moist

temperate forest (2700–3250 m), sub-alpine forest (3200–4000 m) and alpine meadows

(>4000 m).




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Figure-3.23 Location Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III with Singalila National Park and Barsey Rhododendron WLS ESZ boundary




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The sanctuary harbors over dozen of rhododendron species, pure patches of Lithocarpus

pachyphyllus and epiphytes, climbers, ferns and fern-allies, moss and lichens. BRS is a

biologically diverse sanctuary and famous for its rhododendron stand which blooms

usually between April and May. The climate is wet and cold which is highly favorable for

the growth of rhododendrons. There is Hilley enter point of BRS, Hilley gives the best

view of sunrise while Barsey gives a splendid view of Mt. Khangchendzonga, Mt.

Pandim and Mt. Sinolchu, etc., which becomes more picturesque between October and

November.

The sanctuary is flourished with trees of Rhododendron arboreum, R. barbatum, R.

falconeri, R. grande, R. griffithianum and R. hodgsonii and shrubs such as R.

campanulatum, R. dalhousieae and R. lepidotum giving the forest a beautiful look at the

time of blooming. Other commonly available tree species are Abies densa, Acer

campbellii, A. caudatum, A. palmatum, A. pectinatum, Lithocarpus pachyphyllus,

Maddenia himalaica, Magnolia campbellii, Prunus sp., Symplocos lucida and Tsuga

dumosa. While many epiphytic species such as orchids, mosses and lichens are seen

growing on trees, shrubs such as Berberis insignis, Daphne cannabina, Gaultheria

nummularioides, Gaultheria trichophylla, Piptanthus nepalensis, Rosa sericea, Rubus sp.

and Viburnum erubescens are frequently seen throughout the forest. The forest floor is

covered by various species of herbs such as Arisaema sp., Frageria nubicola,

Hemiphragma heterophyllum, Oxalis sp., Potentila sp., Primula sp., Rubus sp., Swertia

sp. and Viola sp. The sanctuary is also rich in medicinal herbs such as Swertia sp., Paris

polyphylla, Oxalis corniculata, Meconopsis paniculata, Heracleum wallichii and Rumex

nepalensis. Thick growth of bamboo such as Bambusa sp. and Sinarundinaria

microphylla is encountered habitually along the trial serving a habitat for Red Panda.

The sanctuary is also home to many faunal species, Barking Deer (Muntiacus muntjak)

belonging to Cervidae family, Red Panda, Wild Boar, Himalayan Black Bear, Barking

Deer and Serow, etc. BRS is also notable for habitat of Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens)

which is the State Animal of Sikkim. Birds such as Verditer Flycatcher, Large-billed

Crow, Plain mountain finch, Spotted laughingthrush, Grey-backed shrike, Green-tailed




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sunbird and Green-backed tit were spotted and recorded. The male and female Blood

Pheasant were spotted at 3352m asl in R. hodgsonii forest. Many beautiful avians were

encountered in the sanctuary out of which Indian Common Crow (Euploea core) was

recorded at around 3000 m asl, Indian Tortoise shell (Aglais caschmirensis) recorded at

around 2800 m asl and Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui ) recorded at around 2700 – 2800

m asl) butterflies (Pradhan et al 2018). The dense forests of Lithocarpus pachyphyllus

provides shelter as well as abundant fruits and as such are good indicators of faunal

presence and richness (Subba et al 2018). Pradhan et al and Subba et al 2018, Rapid

biodiversity survey report III by Department of Forest, Environment and Wildlife

Management, Government of Sikim.

Wildlife Conservation Plan for Schedule-I species has been prepared and submitted to

State Forest Department for approval. After approval, plan will be implementated in

consultation with State Forest Department. Copy of Wildlife Conservation Plan is

enclosed as Annexure XVIII.

3.13 LANDUSE PATTERN

3.13.1 Land use Pattern-Remote Sensing data

The basic purpose of land use pattern and classification in an EIA study is to identify the

manner in which different parts of land area is utilized or not utilized. Remote sensing

data provides reliable accurate baseline information for land use mapping as it is a rapid

method of acquiring up-to-date information of over a large geological area.

Studies on land use aspects of eco-system play an imperative role in identifying

susceptible issues and to take appropriate action to uphold ecological equilibrium in the

region. The main objective of this section is to provide a baseline status of the study area

covering 10 km radius around the project area so that temporal changes due to the

proposed activities on the surroundings can be assessed in future.

The objectives of Land use Pattern are to:

Determine the present Land use pattern




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Study area with proposed unit as epicenter 10 km radius from the core area of

Rammam HEPP Stage-III Run of River (ROR) is considered for land use study.

Satellite Data: The Satellite IRS P-6 LISSIV images are obtained from National Remote

Sensing Centre (NRSC) Hyderabad. The satellite image of the site for the year 2020 is

presented in Fig 3.25.

3.13.2 Methodology: The overall methodology adopted and followed

Collection of source data of Survey of India (SOI) toposheets. These are the main

inputs for the preparation of essential layers.

Satellite data of IRS P-6 LISSIV sensor is geometrically corrected and enhanced

using principal component method and nearest neighborhood resampling technique

Preparation of basic themes like layout map, transport & settlement map and

contour map from the source data. Then updating of layout map, transport map and

drainage map from the satellite image by visual interpretation.

Essential maps (related to natural resources) like Land use / Land cover map are

prepared by visual interpretation of the satellite imagery. Visual interpretation is

carried out based on the image characteristics like tone, size, shape, pattern,

texture, location, association, background etc. in conjunction with existing maps/

literature

Preliminary quality check and necessary corrections are carried out for all the maps

prepared

All the maps prepared are converted into soft copy by digitization of contours and

drainages. In that process editing, labeling, mosaicking, quality checking, data

integration etc. are done, finally Land use areas are measured in Sq.km.

3.13.3 Land use Map Analysis

Land use Map Analysis carried out based on the image color, texture, tone etc.

Following steps are used to analyze the Land use pattern of project site:

Collection of scanned toposheets and Geo-reference the scanned image using the

available coordinates




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Collection of IRS LISS IV images and made fused and blended the images for

color combinations using Image interpreter-Utilities and Layer stack option

available in ERDAS

Identification Area of interest (AOI) and made a buffer of 10 km radius.

Enhance the Fused and blended LISS IV image using the Spatial, Radiometric and

Temporal options in ERDAS

Rectified the LISS IV image using Geo-referencing technique, Toposheet to get

UTM coordinate system

Subset the LISS images and Toposheet using 10 km buffer AOI

Automatic classifications done for LISS IV images using maximum iterations and

number of options in unsupervised classification options

Created the signature file by selecting the more samples of different features with

AOI on Unsupervised classification image

Visual interpretation and supervised classification mixed with recoding practice

Verified through the QC / QA and finalized the data.

3.13.4 Spatial Data from SOI Topographical Sheets

Creating a GIS spatial database is a complex operation, and is the heart of the entire

work; it involves data capture, verification and structuring processes. Raw geographical

data are available in many different analogue and digital form such as toposheets, aerial

photographs, satellite imageries and tables. Out of all these sources, the source of

toposheets is of much concern to natural resource scientist and an environmentalist.




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Fig 3.24 Flow chart of methodology




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Fig 3.25 Satellite Image




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3.13.5 Contour Map and Elevations of Study Area

The contours in Toposheet have been digitized in the GIS environment and assigned the

respective elevation values in meters with reference to the mean sea level. Using the

SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission) data, the elevation values has been verified.

Thereafter final contour map has been prepared with combination of Toposheet and

SRTM ith contour interval of 10 m. Project site contours vary from 854 m to 897 m

above MSL and the study area contours vary from 300 m to 3000 m above MSL.

Contour Map and Elevations of Study Area is presented in Fig 3.27.

3.13.6 Digital Elevation Model

A digital elevation model (DEM) is a digital representation of ground surface

topography or terrain (Fig 3.26). It is also widely known as a digital terrain model

(DTM). A DEM can be represented as a raster (a grid of squares, also known as a

height map when representing elevation) or as a triangular irregular network. The

project site is shown in that Relief map. For the relief study of the area very higher

quality SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission) and DEM is downloaded. These

DEMs of the Terra represents elevation at a 30 m resolution.

3.13.7 Land use land cover statistics of study area

Map showing the Land Use Land Cover classification in the study area is presented in

Figure 3.28. It is clearly that the area is covered with Dense Vegetation around 43.86%

respectively of the total area. Other class is Grass/Agricultual Fields occupies around

25.31%. The Contour Farming & Fallow Lands is 5.60% in the total study area. The

scrub area covers 20.83% of the total area. The Barren land & Fallow lands cover about

3.61% of total area. Water body and Built-up area is covered with 0.69% and 0.1%

respectively. The statistical break-up of the land use classes of buffer zone are presented

in Table 3.54 and depicted in Fig 3.31.




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Fig 3.26 Digital Elevation Map of Study Area




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Fig 3.27 Contour Map of Study Area




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Fig 3.28 Land Use and Land Cover Map of Study Area




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Fig 3.29 Road Network Map of Study Area




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Fig 3.30 Slope Map of Study Area




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Fig 3.31 Graphical Presentation of Land Use Statistics

Table 3.54

Land Use Land Covers Statistics of Study area

Sl. No. LULC_Class Area (Ha) Area (%)

1 Dense Vegetation 23773.99 57.83

2 Grass/Agricultural Fields 4663.11 11.4

3 Contour Farming & Fallow Lands 2300.74 5.60

4 Barren Land or Dry Bed 1485.05 3.61

5 Scrub 8564.44 20.83

6 Water Body 282.89 0.69

7 Built-up 43.09 0.10

Total 41113.31 100%




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3.14 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

3.14.1 Overview

The socio-economic baseline focuses on demographic patterns, economic and livelihood

profile and infrastructure facilities, risks and opportunities – from the proponent’s

perspective – and to provide policy and planning options for mitigating negative impacts

and enhancing project benefits. Essential elements of the study approach were its

strategic, issues-based and participatory nature. The impact assessment will envisage and

evaluate any potential impacts of the project on the local community, livelihoods and

other social systems.

3.14.2 METHODOLOGY

Aim and objectives:

The study area presented in the socio-economic baseline comprises of the following:

Project location – within the limits of Rammam, Hydro-Electric Power Project

(HEPP), Stage-III (3x40 MW), Darjeeling District (West Bengal) & West Sikkim

(Sikkim) and India

To examine the socio-economic conditions of the study project.

To develop attainable mitigation measures to enhance positive impacts and reduce

or avoid negative impacts; and

To develop management and monitoring measures to be implemented throughout

the life of the project.

Procedure and data collection

The socio-economic baseline has been prepared in two folds of secondary and primary

methods.

The secondary data source adopted for the study mainly includes review of

published secondary data (District Census Statistical Handbooks 2011 and

Primary Census Abstract of Census-2011), and other govt related govt office and

web sources of available secondary sources of information as well as select

primary consultations in the vicinity of the project area with respect to population,




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density, household size, sex ratio, social stratification, literacy rate and

occupational structure for 10 km radius study area.

The primary survey was conducted in two different methods such as; Individual

Questionnaire Survey (IQS) and Focused Group Discussions (FGD). The primary

data has been collected within the vicinity of the project area with respect to

population, density, household size, sex ratio, social stratification, literacy rate and

occupational structure for 10 km radius study area. Data has been analyzed by

using SPSS. This will help measure the impacts with project in various aspects,

awareness of the project and community perceptions about the project and other

related information.

3.14.3 Brief Profile of West Bengal district

Darjeeling district is the northern most district of West Bengal. It is located in the lap of

the Himalayas. For administrative and revenue purposes, the district has four subdivisions

namely, Darjeeling Sadar, Kalimpong, Kurseong and Siliguri. Further, the district has 12

development blocks. Darjeeling Himalaya forms a part of eastern Himalayan ranges and

is bounded by Sikkim, Nepal and Bhutan on the north, west and east respectively. The

district occupies a geographical area of 3149sq.Km.

3.14.3.1Demographical details of the District

The initial provisional data released by Census of India 2011, shows that density of

Darjeeling district for 2011 is 586 people per sq.km. The sex ratio in Darjeeling is 937

females per thousand males. Rural population of Darjeeling according to Census 2011 is

11,23,859. Darjeeling’s urban population according to Census 2011 is 7,18,175. The total

population living in rural area is 1,118,860 of which males and females are 566,965 and

551,895 respectively. As per 2011 census, 60.58 percent population of Darjeeling district

lives in rural areas of villages. Out of the total Darjeeling population for 2011census,

39.42 percent lives in urban regions of district. In total 727,963 people lives in urban

areas of which males are 370,294 and females 357,669. In 2011 census, the male and

female literacy rate in Darjeeling was 80.05 percent and 62.94 percent respectively. Total




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workers were 5,69,442 and non- workers were 10,39,730 (Census of West Bengal, 2001).

The district has a sizeable SC and ST population and the present study attempts to

explore the differential household decision-making status of men and women of such

households.

Fig 3.32 Demographical details of the district

0 5,00,000 10,00,000 15,00,000

Male

Female

Population Growth

Density/km2

Sex Ratio (Per 1000)

Average Literacy

Total Child Population

Literates

Demographical details of the District

Male

Female

Population Growth

Density/km2

Sex Ratio (Per 1000)

Average Literacy

Total Child Population

Literates




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3.14.3.2Demographical details of the study area

The study area of Darjeeling district study area is located in the sub districts namely;

Darjeeling pulbazar and Jore bunglow sukaipokhri. It is surrounded with 74 villages in

this district area. The total study area has population of 2,40,451 with 52,938 households

of which males and females are 1,20,060 and 1,20,391 respectively. With regard to

children (0-6 age) are 21009 in this area. The Schedule caste (SC) and Schedule Tribes

(ST) are 12,278 and 70,651. Average literacy rates 2011 were 79.56. If things are looked

out at gender wise, male and female literacy were 80.05% and 62.94% respectively. The

village wise details are provided in Table 3.39.




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Table 3.55 Demographical details of the study area

S.No Name No_HH TOT_P TOT_M TOT_F P_06 P_SC P_ST P_LIT

Darjeeling Pulbazar 27470 126935 63828 63107 11696 5863 36563 93091

1 Singalila Forest 329 1632 842 790 189 7 1039 1033

2 Rimbick 1406 6980 3544 3436 659 242 2150 5137

3 Namla 616 2989 1534 1455 310 96 1603 2158

4 Lodhama 142 703 348 355 40 1 235 578

5 Hatta 645 3436 1799 1637 384 85 1390 2245

6 Dangia 396 1768 895 873 222 198 748 1118

7 Singbhumdera 460 2192 1141 1051 232 1 810 1524

8 Majua 238 1164 580 584 127 0 591 773

9 Kankibong 775 3765 1949 1816 441 80 1538 2505

10 Jhepi 351 1576 832 744 168 106 543 1088

11 Lamagaon 548 2630 1336 1294 326 63 1530 1846

12 Relling 774 3568 1825 1743 293 39 502 2468

13 Kaijalia 934 4150 2066 2084 452 88 1092 2963

14 Samalbong 454 2077 1035 1042 230 48 876 1507

15 Kolbong 178 885 445 440 77 16 352 630

16 Murmidong 442 2181 1174 1007 298 38 819 1274

17 Goke 1826 9100 4664 4436 1101 646 2125 6391

18 Bijanbari 1206 5338 2685 2653 514 390 1584 4156

19 Liza Hill Tea Garden 356 1439 703 736 129 90 273 960

20 Barnesbeg Tea Garden 315 1381 711 670 79 355 191 1009

21 Singla Tea Garden 746 3400 1715 1685 293 233 1007 2254

22 Rangli Forest 17 65 33 32 4 0 13 58




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23 Banockburn Tea Garden 354 1725 854 871 144 59 538 1335

24 Phubsering Tea Garden 690 3208 1595 1613 250 155 265 2539

25 Rungneet Tea Garden 309 1252 628 624 78 7 611 1067

26 Pattabong Tea Garden 506 2347 1137 1210 153 117 508 2012

27 Patliabas Forest 24 158 76 82 6 28 44 146

28 Tukvar Tea Garden 1043 4791 2339 2452 397 320 851 3529

29 Lebong Tea Garden 521 2276 1159 1117 197 54 952 1670

30 Soom Tea Garden 757 3578 1757 1821 290 68 770 2458

31 Happy Valley Tea Garden 303 1310 630 680 90 76 344 1019

32 Arya Tea Garden 293 1236 587 649 112 16 304 926

33 Rishihat Tea Garden 407 1651 815 836 111 224 373 1147

34 Rishihat Khasmahal 187 824 417 407 47 0 387 647

35 Barbatia Khasmahal 155 769 399 370 60 30 202 628

36 Bloomfield Tea Garden 640 2901 1434 1467 219 226 444 2229

37 Darjiling (P) 511 2270 1098 1172 160 273 261 1917

38 Alubari Tea Garden 27 116 60 56 5 19 40 88

39 Lebong & Mineral Spring Tea

Garden

1417 6236 3184 3052 551 174 1044 4856

40 Pandam Tea Garden 932 3959 1965 1994 292 240 509 3245

41 Alubari Basty 237 1063 553 510 83 12 438 848

42 Badamtam Tea Garden (CT) 1256 6102 2987 3115 520 463 1053 4536

43 Ging Tea Garden (CT) 902 4089 2037 2052 345 80 1577 3086

44 Chongtong Tea Garden (CT) 1340 5802 2876 2926 471 143 1884 4098

45 Singtam Tea Garden (CT) 1289 5792 2850 2942 416 257 1818 4649

46 Jorebunglow Sukiapokhri 25468 113516 56232 57284 9313 6415 34088 86004




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47 Salu Tea Garden 155 677 325 352 65 28 23 491

48 Kacel Tea Garden 202 855 418 437 100 9 179 596

49 Mariabong Tea Garden 607 2404 1203 1201 183 243 769 1721

50 Lingia Tea Garden 415 1841 910 931 127 66 228 1342

51 Tumsong Tea Garden 374 1700 815 885 123 133 416 1367

52 Tumsong Khasmahal 120 586 290 296 35 0 46 460

53 Mim Tea Garden 402 1842 884 958 151 64 419 1386

54 Ghoom Pahar Forest 116 484 242 242 40 14 322 402

55 Pulung Dong Khasmahal 533 2573 1296 1277 246 12 840 1974

56 Pulung Dong Tea Estate 127 622 317 305 61 0 3 511

57 Pubong Tea Garden 450 2170 1098 1072 165 61 625 1660

58 Pussinbong Tea Garden 651 2879 1425 1454 202 181 577 2203

59 Senchal Forest 120 527 283 244 56 17 188 358

60 Rangaroong Tea Garden 320 1423 702 721 113 107 460 1143

61 Rang Bul 904 3916 1920 1996 283 187 1908 3331

62 Hill Cart Road 275 1355 684 671 112 167 410 1149

63 Kalej Valley Tea Garden 596 2640 1311 1329 244 207 742 1846

64 Dooteria Forest 84 368 182 186 32 2 122 306

65 Dooteria Tea Garden 1166 5113 2636 2477 505 291 1401 3613

66 Okas Tea Garden 283 1262 614 648 100 65 34 921

67 Moonda Kotee Tea Garden 963 3972 1989 1983 325 120 849 2783

68 Ring Tong Tea Garden

(Gunawar)

183 820 419 401 57 13 259 551

69 Nahori Tea Garden (Balasom) 559 2402 1195 1207 170 164 1015 1743

70 Ringtong Tea Garden (Margaret

Hope)

1429 6025 2969 3056 455 351 2746 4243




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71 Simana Basti 562 2841 1424 1417 256 91 1558 2168

72 Mim Nagri Range 138 561 271 290 54 0 493 414

73 Achhalal Hatta(Rong Bong

Basty)

751 3508 1759 1749 329 105 1249 2598

74 Chamu Tea Garden 527 2352 1163 1189 182 167 577 1779

75 Soolbongs Tea Garden 509 2196 1033 1163 173 136 257 1723

https://censusindia.gov.in/pca/cdb_pca_census/Houselisting-housing-WB.html




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3.14.3.3Economy and Land based Livelihood

The two most significant contributors to Darjeeling's economy are tourism and the tea

industry. Darjeeling tea, due to the unique agro-climatic conditions of Darjeeling, has a

distinctive natural flavor, is internationally reputed and recognized as a geographical

indicator. The office of the Darjeeling Indian Tea Association (DITA) is located at

Darjeeling. Darjeeling produces 7% of India's tea output, approximately 9,000,000

kilograms (20,000,000 lb) every year. The tea industry has faced competition in recent

years from tea produced in other parts of India as well as other countries like

Nepal. Widespread concerns about labour disputes, worker layoffs and closing of estates

have affected investment and production. Several tea estates are being run on a

workers' cooperative model, while others are being planned for conversion into tourist

resorts. More than 60% of workers in the tea gardens are women. Besides tea, the most

widely cultivated crops include maize, millets, paddy, cardamon, potato and ginger.

3.14.3.4Landuse Pattern

Land is the basic resource. A comprehensive estimation of landuse and potentials of the

fallow and wastelands is imperative for policy planning in rural development,

environmental protection, wasteland development, agriculture, pisciculture etc. at village

level. The landuse pattern of the project area has already been discussed in the earlier

chapter.

3.14.3.5Working Population

The total working population (main and marginal) in the study area (Darjeling Pulbajar

and Jorebunglow Sukiapokhri) are 91,790, of which male and female worker are 55623

and 36167 respectively. Out of total population, 91,790 were engaged in work activities.

42.4% of workers describe their work as Main Work (Employment or Earning more than

6 Months) while 58.6% were involved in Marginal activity providing livelihood for less

than 6 months.




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Fig 3.33 Details of the working population

3.14.3.6Cropping Pattern

The major crops in Darjeeling District and study area are maize, ginger, paddy, tamarind,

mustard, elachi, etc. in Kharif season (summer season), primarily maize and ginger,

which accounts nearly 80 – 90% of total crops of the season. However, paddy accounts

for 10 – 20% of the total crop, which is cultivated during Rabi season. In few pockets,

mustard, elachi, tamarind, vegetables, etc. are also being cultivated in less than 25% of

the total crop area.

3.14.3.7Agricultural Implements

The study area owing to its diverse geo-morphological conditions, has different agro-

climatic conditions. The highest altitude are covered with snow almost through-out the

year and are unsuitable for crop cultivation. The lower hills are mainly used for plantation

crops like Tea, Cinchona and Rubber. Study area is also famous for variety of fruits and

vegetables grown at different elevations. Pineapples are the highest growing fruit variety

in the district. Darjiling Orange is also a distinguished variety of fruit; famous for its

juiciness and texture. Banana, Papaya, Jackfruit, Guava, Lychee, Mango and Jackfruit 23

are the other major varieties of fruits cultivated in Darjiling depending upon the quality of

0

10000

20000

30000

40000

50000

60000

70000

Main Workers marginalWorkers

Axi

s Ti

tle

Main Workers

marginal Workers




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land and topography. The plain-lands under the Tarai and Dooars region are favourable

for cultivation of rice, jute and potato. Maize (Corn) and ginger are cultivated primarily in

the sloping lands at the foot of the hills. Organised sugarcane cultivation in the district

has been accelerated in recent years (after 2006-07). Among the vegetables, production of

Cucurbits like Squash, Pumpkin, Zucchini, Gourds etc. are maximum in this area,

followed by Cabbage, Cauliflower, Tomato, Bringal etc.

Rice Paddy Tea gardens

3.14.3.8Irrigation:

Since the advent of modern cultivation in district Darjiling during the 1840s, irrigation

became an important and integral part of the agricultural activity. Although the entire

district is highly rain-fed, due to typical characteristic of the soil, the agricultural fields

are to be watered artificially. Initially, water from the rivers and small springs called

Jhora’s were used to water the fields. At present, the major sources of irrigation in district

Darjiling are Canals made by Government, Shallow Tube Wells, Open Dug Wells, River

Lift irrigation from the numerous rivulets and springs coming down from the Himalayas.

In the plains under Siliguri Sub-division also, the River Lift irrigation is most important

source of irrigated water. Beside this, the traditional method of cutting small water

channels from the nearby rivers and harvested streams from the adjacent hills to water the

agricultural lands are also practiced.




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3.14.3.9Horticulture

Horticulture is also one of the economy sources in the study area consists of fruits,

vegetables, spices and herbal products. These are proteinous and full of minerals and

salts. In a broader term, it incorporates floriculture also. These are cash crops, whose per

acre yield is higher and less disease prone than that of cereals. Horticulture is also one of

the economy sources in the study area. The climate and soil of Darjeeling District is aptly

suitable for horticultural development and in all the three seasons i.e. Winter, Summer

and monsoon, horticultural production can be done. In rainy season, main seasonal

horticultural products are Lady finger, Nenua (Taroi), Jhingi, Bitter gourd (Karaila),

Beans, Raddish, Brinjal, Tomato, Pumpkin group, Cucumber group, French bean, Potato,

Seem, Kanda, Cauliflower, etc. The main horticulture produce in Winter Season are

Brinjal, Tomato, Potato, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Turnip, Carrot, Raddish, Cucumber, Beet,

Spinach, Palak, Peanut, French beans, Seem, etc. In Summer Season, Nenua (Taroi),

Jhingi, Pumpkin group, Bitter gourd, Beans, Lady’s finger, Raddish, Cucumber, Brinjal,

Cauliflower, Tomato, Spinach, etc. are produced. The prime fruit crop of the area are

Mango, Guava, Lemon, Sharifa, Berries, Pomegranate, Jamun, Shahatut, Coconut,

Papaya, Banana, etc. Certain varieties of flowers viz., Rose, Hibiscus, Kamini, Rukmini,

Jasmin, Bela, Night queen, Chameli, Juhi, Kewda, Land lotus and other seasonal flowers




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like Dahalia, Merry gold, etc. are also grown in the area. The main spices, that are being

cultivated in this area, are Red chillies, Coriander, Dhania, Ginger, Garlic, Methi, etc.

3.14.3.10Industries

There are no Large-Scale or Heavy industrial units in Darjiling. Historically, production

of tea from the plantations in and around the district has remained the largest industrial

activity. In later years, several MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and SSI

(Small Scale Industries) units have emerged in the district industrial scenario. The

industrial group wise distribution of factory units in the district Darjiling (for the

Financial Year 2008-09) is 178 industrial units in the district, production of food products

has the largest number of units with 154. In the category of Micro, Small and Medium

Enterprises and Artisan Units in the district Darjiling, there are a total of 13 Units

presently functioning in the district whose category wise distribution are as follows:

3.14.3.11Tea Industry of Darjiling District (Darjeeling Tea):

The plantation of Tea in the study area and district is as old as the history of the Darjiling

town itself. Tea plantation in the district started in a commercial basis during the earliest

years of establishment of British colonies in the district in 1830s and propagated by the

British Officer, Sir Arthur Campbell, primarily with an objective to reduce the monopoly

of the Chinese tea merchants. Although, the plantation of Assam tea started few decades

earlier, it was the ‘Darjeeling Tea’ that received the iconic status due to its significant

aroma, taste and colour. In order to encourage the tea plantation in and around Darjiling,

the Britishers distributed saplings and seeds from the Government nurseries. As a result

of this encouragement, the tea production in the district increased manifold and by the

advent of twentieth century, Darjeeling tea became world famous as the most exotically

flavoured and finest tea and has got the status of ‘Champagne of Tea’. As per the

definition, “Darjeeling Tea” can only refer to tea that has been cultivated, grown,

produced, manufactured and processed in tea gardens in few specific hilly areas of the

district. At present there are 87 Tea Gardens in the district covered under this GI Tag.




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3.14.3.12Physical and Social Infrastructure Facilities in Darjeeling

Transport:

Despite a hilly terrain and high altitude, study area and Darjiling have a very wide spread

road-network covering almost all areas of the district. Since the expansion of British

territory in the early Nineteenth Century across the area, structured transformation of the

hilly rural roads to metalled and non-metalled road took place and within the end of

Nineteenth Century, owing to the important strategic location, far-flung places of the

district were well connected with district Head Quarter at Darjiling Town. Till date the

most famous and prominent mode of transport in the district is the Darjeeling Himalayan

Railway (The Toy Train of Darjiling). Established in 1881, with primary purpose of

transporting Darjeeling Tea from the Tea-Gardens in Hills to Kolkata, which was as

important Port City of Nineteenth Century. Subsequent to Indian independence, it came

under the control of Indian Government in 1948. In 1999, the Darjeeling Himalayan

Railway (DHR) was included in the list of World Heritage Site by the UNESCO World

Heritage Convention on the following grounds :

(a) The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is an outstanding example of the influence of an

innovative transportation system on the social and economic development of a multi-

cultural region, which was to serve as a model for similar developments in many parts of

the world. (Criterion ii)

(b) The development of railways in the 19th century had a profound influence on social

and economic developments in many parts of the world.

This process is illustrated in an exceptional and seminal fashion by the Darjeeling

Himalayan Railway (Criterion iv) Presently its journey starts from the New Jalpaiguri

Railway Station near Siliguri and stretches upto Darjiling Town travelling a distance of

78 Kilometres. In the journey the elevation level changes from 100 Metres above sea

level to 2,200 Metres. However, owing to the factors like steep changes in elevation,

existence of several Loops in the path and a journey through a landslide prone path, the

services in the complete route is hindered. The Road network of district Darjiling is well




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built and several National and State Highways pass through the district. NH-31, NH-31A,

NH-31C and NH-110 crosses the district and important locations are connected by SH-12

and SH-12A beside numerous medium, small and minor road networks. The length of

Road network maintained by P.W.D., DCAHC, Siliguri Mahakuma Parishad and Prime

Minister’s Gram Sarak Yojana exceeds 4,100 kilometres

Educational Facilities

In general the number of Primary, Junior High and High School in the project region has

increased over the years. The most of the study areas have schools and colleges in both

private and Govt. sectors. There are 2 nos.primary schools, 1 no. Secondary school, 2

nos. senior secondary schools in Darjeeling. The number of Primary Schools is 6, number

of Middle and Secondary/Matriculation schools is 2 in each in the study area.

Medical Facilities

Medical facilities available in the Project Affected Villages are presented in Table 5.4.

Sumbuk has 1 Health Sub-Centre. Other Health Sub-Centres are located at 2 - 15 km

distance from Sajbotey, Takbay, Nezi, Salandong and Kankibong. It may be pertinent to

mention here that villagers of Kankibong, Salandong, Takbay, Nezi and Sajbotey have to

travel 4 - 20 km distance to avail the facilities of even Primary Health Centre. The

villagers of PAVs have to cover a distance of upto approx. 18 km to reach Bijonbari

Rural Hospital. Also in many cases, it is very difficult for the patients to avail of the

medical services because of the bad condition of roads especially during the monsoon

season as well as non-availability of staff including doctors. Moreover the transport cost

is also very high as the fare is Rs 20-40 per person per trip which is not affordable to

specially poor people. Even there is no Private Allopathic/Ayurvedic/Homeopathic

Medical Practitioner in the PAVs. There is only 1 Medical Store at Sumbuk. Villagers of

the remaining 5 PAVs have to travel a distance of 1 - 14 km to avail the facility of the

nearest medical store. There is no Veterinary Dispensary in the PAVs.




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Water Supply Facilities

The analysis of water supply facilities shows that the major sources of the supply of

drinking water are tap water and Rammam River in the PAVs. Being in the hilly terrain,

none of the people have tube wells. Most of the people have to bring drinking water from

tap water, which are at distances upto 0.5 – 2 km from their houses.

Water requirement for the other purposes like bathing, washing, cattle rearing, etc. are

met by nearby rivers and streams/canals. In Sajbotey, Nezi and Takbay, villagers use tap

water. People of Kankibong get facility of Rammam river besides tap water for bathing

and washing and sometimes also for drinking purposes. Villagers of Sumbuk quench their

thirst from natural sources.

Electricity and Power:

The oldest Hydro-Electric power plant in India is located in district Darjiling at a distance

of 12 kilometres from the Darjeeling town is known as Sidrapong Hydel Power Station.

The Hydel Power plant at Sidrapong became operational in the year 1896 and is located

at an elevation 1,100 Metres from the mean sea level. The Power Plant came under the

control of State-run West Bengal State Electricity Board from 1978 and presently beside

river Great Rangeet, three river streams named Kotwali, Hospital and Barbatia feed the

power plant. The status important hydel power projects of Darjiling district are depicted

in the following Table 3.56

Table 3.56

The important hydel power projects in Darjeeling district, West Bengal

S.No. Name of the Project Capacity (MW) Operational Status

1. Rammam Hydel Power Project

Stage-II

51 MW In Operation

2. Jaldhaka Hydel Power Project

Stage-I & II

27 MW In Internittent

Operation

3. Teesta Canal Fall Hydel Power

Project

9x7.5 MW In Operation

4. Fazi Jhora 2.448 MW In Operation

5. Rinchington 2.0 MW In Operation




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6. Little Rangeet 2.0 MW In Operation

7. Sidrapong 0.6 MW In Operation

(Source: Website of West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd., Report on

Hydel Projects)




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Table 3.57

Details of physical and social amenities in the study area

S.No. Name of the

CD Block

Number of

inhabited

villages

Type of amenity available

Ed

uca

tion

Med

ical

Dri

nk

ing

wat

er

Pos

t O

ffic

e

Tel

eph

one

Tra

nsp

ort

com

mu

nic

atio

ns

Ba

nk

s

Agr

icu

ltu

ral

cred

it

soci

etie

s

Ap

pro

ach

by

pu

cca

road

Pow

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up

ply

1. Darjeeling

Pulbazar

43 42

(97.67)

34

(79.07)

43

(100)

25

(58.14)

41

(95.35)

6

(13.95)

5

(11.63)

8

(18.6)

27

(62.79)

43

(100)

2. Jorebunglow

Sukiapokhri

42 41

(97.62)

40

(95.24)

42

(100)

21

(50)

42

(100)

11

(26.19)

2

(4.76)

1

(2.38)

25

(59.52)

42

(100)

Source: http://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/DCHB.html




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3.14.4 Brief Profile of the Sikkim District

Sikkim state fall in the 1.4 Meso Regions, namely North Eastern Himalayas of the Macro

Region 1 the Northern Mountains of the Natural Division of India. Nearly two third of its

hilly regions are very high mountains perpetually covered with snow are the sources of

glaciers like Talung, Zemu, Lhonak etc. The state being the part of inner mountain ranges

of Himalayas is hilly having varied elevations ranging from 300 meters to 7000 meters.

The largest portion of Sikkim is in its North-West, a large number of mountains having

the altitude of about nine thousand meters stand here which includes the famous

Kanchenjunga (8598 meters), the third highest peak in the world.Sikkim state has four

districts which are named according to their regional location and they are the: 1) North

District, 2. West District 3. South District and the 4. East District

3.14.4.1Communities of Sikkim

Communities, Cultures, Religions and Customs of different hues intermingle freely here

in Sikkim to constitute a homogeneous blend. The predominant communities are the

LEPCHAS, BHUTIAS and NEPALESE. In urban areas, many plainsmen have also

settled and they are almost engaged in business and Government service. Because of the

development activities in the state, like the construction of roads, bridges and buildings a

small part of the population consists of migrant laborers from the plains and Nepal.

3.14.4.2Demographical details of the study area

The proposed study area is covered with two major districts of Sikkim state, that is west

Sikkim and south Sikkim. There are 34 large Revenue Blocks having above 2000

population of which 2 falls in North districts followed by 12 in West district, 7 in South

district and 13 in East district. There are only 3 Revenue Blocks which has population

above 5,000 and they fall in East district only

West Sikkim is the second largest district in the Indian state of Sikkim with an area of

1,166 sq km. The headquarters of the district is at Gyalshing, also known as Geyzing.The

town is connected to the capital Gangtok by a metalled road. Geyzing is also connected to

the West Bengal towns of Darjeeling and Kalimpong via Jorethang. In West district




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96.15 per cent population lives in rural area while only 3.85per cent population lives in

the urban areas at Gyalshing (NP) and xi Nayabazaar (NBA). In West district 96.15 per

cent population lives in rural area while only 3.85per cent population lives in the urban

areas at Gyalshing (NP) and Nayabazaar (NBA).

South District of Sikkim lies at an altitude of 400 mtr to 2000 mtr with unique and

countryside escape of endless waves of agricultural fields and the terraced slopes,

intercepted by spring patched forests and encompasses a total area of around 75000

hectares. Area wise, it is the smallest district of Sikkim and population-wise, second one.

Its total population is 1,46,742 (as per 2011 census) among which 76,663 are male

and 68,241 female. In South district 85.56 per cent population lives in rural areas while

the only 10.62 per cent are in urban area at Mangan (NP). In South district 85.56 per cent

population lives in rural areas while the remaining 14.44 per cent lives in the urban areas

at Namchi (M.Cl) and Jorethang (NP).

These two districts, Soreng and Namchi sub districts are the major covered areas in the

study. Those demographical details are provided on below table-




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Table 3.58 Demographical details of the study area

Sno Name No_HH TOT_P TOT_M TOT_F P_06 P_SC P_ST P_LIT P_ILL

1 Soreng 13462 63525 32405 31120 6797 2463 25789 43943 19582

2 Tadong} 283 1445 769 676 164 9 336 1040 405

3 Rinchenpong 298 1458 737 721 139 25 471 1111 347

4 Sangadorji 237 1198 638 560 139 25 466 796 402

5 Jeel 159 744 398 346 91 35 393 406 338

6 Hathidunga 206 957 471 486 105 22 517 655 302

7 Bum 132 635 323 312 78 0 28 420 215

8 Rishi 117 659 330 329 85 0 490 434 225

9 Bara-Samdong 295 1385 707 678 158 12 827 1005 380

10 Sribadam 239 1127 576 551 131 47 747 820 307

11 Deythang 274 1283 648 635 145 0 612 822 461

12 Parrengaon 277 1301 674 627 154 6 521 755 546

13 Takuthang 278 1282 617 665 148 20 571 817 465

14 Chuchen 183 875 457 418 88 31 482 612 263

15 Tinzerbong 217 1037 553 484 110 41 500 679 358

16 Suldung 143 754 378 376 92 34 42 421 333

17 Kamling 230 1247 641 606 166 116 267 773 474

18 Mabong 237 1094 559 535 134 25 135 686 408

19 Segeng 175 864 426 438 120 6 285 546 318

20 Samsing 353 1802 983 819 221 128 270 1149 653

21 Geling 257 1306 659 647 155 53 236 760 546

22 Suntaley 86 414 210 204 45 19 93 207 207

23 Khanisherbung 235 1089 536 553 148 12 534 723 366

24 Aroobotey 154 787 415 372 92 0 559 504 283

25 Chota-Samdong 176 846 459 387 87 2 670 539 307




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26 Singling 518 2376 1200 1176 240 94 1557 1651 725

27 Karthok 128 619 333 286 69 9 234 426 193

28 Burikhop(Dodok) 422 2167 1084 1083 216 226 689 1522 645

29 Burikhop(Rumbuk) 282 1337 690 647 104 5 313 971 366

30 Rumbuk 403 1838 936 902 188 68 1151 1302 536

31 Bhareng 101 390 184 206 54 5 292 281 109

32 Ribdi 229 1034 535 499 124 34 730 702 332

33 Okhery 366 1683 821 862 171 70 1445 1216 467

34 Tikpur 434 1911 1019 892 199 3 1135 1303 608

35 Siktam 109 510 260 250 55 96 194 351 159

36 Salyangdang 202 963 488 475 98 62 88 638 325

37 Longchok 235 1023 509 514 109 47 360 730 293

38 Lower Fambong 145 723 365 358 82 0 611 508 215

39 Dhalam(Daramden) 372 1886 921 965 181 242 563 1408 478

40 Upper Fambong 663 2995 1506 1489 297 173 1737 2285 710

41 Timberbong 427 2156 1078 1078 234 79 738 1520 636

42 Tharpu 253 1117 584 533 119 134 376 767 350

43 Soreng 887 3818 1937 1881 368 100 1490 2877 941

44 Malbasey 627 2888 1481 1407 314 86 680 2044 844

45 Mendo-Goan 204 925 470 455 84 62 306 663 262

46 Chakung 380 1859 930 929 142 53 325 1359 500

47 Chumbong 390 1796 909 887 202 38 428 1249 547

48 Zoom 422 1841 945 896 148 100 255 1421 420

49 Namchi 16057 77696 40517 37179 8078 3591 20392 56715 20981

50 Chumlok 154 622 335 287 69 25 266 481 141

51 Jaubari 124 579 292 287 58 4 429 330 249

52 Tingrithang 112 514 267 247 52 0 75 366 148




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53 Mamley 206 1079 543 536 99 17 260 754 325

54 Pabong(Mamley) 127 603 309 294 50 0 170 398 205

55 Kamrang 311 1440 745 695 143 23 249 1052 388

56 Tinzer 55 237 113 124 24 7 24 161 76

57 Denchung 212 980 511 469 84 1 361 715 265

58 Poklok (Polok) 363 1768 887 881 195 49 143 1243 525

59 Tinik 190 942 510 432 91 56 86 659 283

60 Chisopani 299 2172 1510 662 155 104 346 1644 528

61 Salghari 184 850 412 438 88 9 126 629 221

62 Dorop 156 765 364 401 90 10 209 603 162

63 Gom 234 1163 636 527 125 80 215 815 348

64 Sorok 103 474 230 244 52 63 236 353 121

65 Sangbung 186 874 443 431 101 58 257 680 194

66 Assangthang 168 785 404 381 95 30 144 606 179

67 Kopchey 168 727 345 382 73 8 120 547 180

68 Mikkhola 147 687 341 346 74 54 94 553 134

69 Kitam 213 1036 502 534 100 54 222 798 238

70 Kartickey 161 876 435 441 73 125 8 660 216

71 Sumbuk 240 1069 584 485 103 52 167 773 296

72 Suntaley (Sumbuk) 94 410 212 198 38 8 65 307 103

73 Rong 139 589 300 289 67 1 58 476 113

74 Palum 40 204 102 102 22 19 3 126 78

75 Singtam 57 265 152 113 39 0 11 160 105

76 Bul 55 265 134 131 29 0 24 178 87

77 Bomtar 201 944 525 419 81 35 227 747 197

78 Singhithang 74 338 166 172 24 0 95 286 52

79 Saleumbong 122 606 302 304 69 92 186 435 171




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80 Phalidara 171 808 402 406 88 6 305 549 259

81 Maniram 222 990 494 496 78 13 474 729 261

82 Longchok 193 901 444 457 94 1 174 723 178

83 Panchgharey 192 939 488 451 98 15 355 603 336

84 Turuk 226 1050 540 510 66 0 142 817 233

85 Ramabong 179 844 414 430 99 51 129 587 257

86 Kerabari 145 670 357 313 82 57 36 383 287

87 Mellidara 338 1670 815 855 152 62 459 1201 469

88 Paiyong (Kerabari) 220 1054 548 506 106 74 192 732 322

89 Suntaley (Sadam) 239 1125 576 549 134 102 165 740 385

90 Sukrabarey 262 1203 597 606 116 56 31 915 288

91 Sadam 189 940 477 463 100 49 77 595 345

92 Rabitar 151 753 392 361 100 6 356 542 211

93 Rabikhola 69 373 197 176 29 1 59 293 80

94 Tangji 146 774 391 383 96 54 61 561 213

95 Bikmat 131 621 327 294 78 20 114 454 167

96 Rateypani 252 1269 637 632 150 170 415 870 399

97 Kateng-Bokrang 195 1021 534 487 101 28 730 670 351

98 Nalam-Kolbong 221 1013 514 499 106 42 402 814 199

99 Nagi 194 988 513 475 110 54 245 757 231

100 Maneydara 189 892 468 424 104 50 196 636 256

101 Kabrey 180 931 463 468 112 30 399 666 265

102 Karek 226 1177 628 549 144 21 142 800 377

103 Phong 129 680 362 318 61 10 122 500 180

104 Chuba 153 772 393 379 86 4 256 571 201

105 Parbing 347 1617 817 800 166 0 1091 1174 443

106 Rameng 116 571 307 264 84 0 287 388 183




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107 Nijarmeng 102 498 258 240 49 0 86 405 93

108 Tokal 182 934 474 460 85 34 418 707 227

109 Tokdey (Resep) 99 487 263 224 47 6 296 365 122

110 Gangchung 131 546 286 260 70 8 378 362 184

111 Aifaltar 57 289 152 137 27 0 30 212 77

112 Temi Tea Estate 247 1323 662 661 130 158 356 991 332

113 Temi 278 1195 600 595 103 83 270 927 268

114 Tarku 371 1856 949 907 193 136 239 1393 463

115 Pabong (Gangchung) 101 541 275 266 39 27 279 364 177

116 Doring 254 1064 532 532 175 28 433 746 318

117 Rashyap 241 1129 580 549 153 55 426 747 382

118 Namphing 581 2522 1279 1243 309 105 786 1870 652

119 Tsalumthang 173 901 459 442 94 107 265 670 231

120 Turung 225 1121 578 543 150 181 339 803 318

121 Kanamtek 110 612 332 280 73 2 307 472 140

122 Pamphok 211 1269 1005 264 83 126 218 1035 234

123 Donok 60 302 151 151 29 1 0 198 104

124 Mamring 327 1421 704 717 164 23 170 1090 331

Source: https://censusindia.gov.in/pca/cdb_pca_census/Houselisting-housing-SK.html




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3.14.4.3Economy and Land based Livelihood of Sikkim

Agriculture

Sikkim is a hilly State in the Eastern Himalayas where agricultural practices and

adaptations are highly variable in time and space due to varying altitudes and agro-

climatic situations. Agriculture is the primary activity of the people of Sikkim. About

15.36% of the total geographical area of the land is devoted to agriculture but the actual

area available for agricultural purpose is declining due to diversion of cultivable land for

non-agricultural purposes like establishment of industries, township expansion,

construction of roads, hydel projects, buildings etc. Farming has been considerably

handicapped by small and fragmented holdings, limited irrigation, and lack of farm

mechanization and frequent occurrence of natural calamities like landslides, floods and

earthquakes. In view of these facts, emphasis is being given to intensive and judicious use

of limited land so that the per capita land productivity and overall production is

maintained at a desired level. Agriculture in an entirely mountainous state like Sikkim

operates under many constraints resulting into low average yield per unit area for most of

the crops. The low productivity is seriously characterised by two important features, viz.

land holding size and socio-economic condition of the farmers. The majority of the

farming communities of the state fall in the small and marginal farmers.

0

5000

10000

15000

20000

25000

30000

35000

40000

45000

50000

Main Workers Marginal Workers




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Irrigation

The study area being a mountainous state consisting of steep rugged hills, narrow valleys

and rocky terrains, the topographical condition is not favourable to go in for medium or

major irrigation schemes. Hence all the irrigation schemes fall under minor irrigation

scheme category only. The rate of rainfall in Sikkim is very high and due to the

geographical characteristics, the irrigation channel is prone to extensive damages during

the monsoons. Even the optimal utilisation of the completed schemes is truncated due to

such damages inflicted during the rainy season. During lean periods, small discharges

will be collected in reservoirs for cultivation of Rabi crops. The implementation of non-

perennial irrigation system in most cases is unavoidable. The reason being the regular and

sufficient quantity of water is not available at the source throughout the year. Besides,

rice is the main crop grown in Sikkim for which the irrigation is mostly required. Hence,

inundation irrigation system in which sufficient quantity of water flowing in the rivulets

and streams during the monsoons and post monsoon period is diverted to irrigate the

kharif crops.

Animal Husbandry

The congenial temperate climate and the temperate vegetation existing in the study areas

are highly favorable for exotic high producing livestock. Moreover, the highlanders have

a traditional pastoral economy handed over from generation to generation with their

typical kind of livestock such as yaks, sheep, mountain goats, pigs and poultry. Livestock




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sector in the study area is highly livelihood intensive. Agriculture along with livestock is

the single largest employer in the state. Over 80 per cent of the farmers in the state and

study area own livestock and earn supplementary incomes from them. The livestock in

Sikkim available in the high altitude areas such as yaks, sheep and local goats known as

"Chengra" predominate.

Tourism

Sikkim is an ever enchanting state with its elegant natural beauty of snowing mountains,

luxuriant forests with exotic flora and fauna, pristine waterfalls, sacred lakes, holy caves,

medicinal hot springs and gentle streams. The state of study area is a destination for all

season for those seeking solitude for meditation and those seeking leisure holidays to the

more adventurous visitors. The tourism is one of major sector of the state economy.

Tourism sector has been accorded priority as it is deemed to be one of the major revenue

earning and employment generating sector. It being the fastest growing industry, there

has been tremendous growth in terms of standard and quality of service, infrastructural

development and competitive promotional packages. For those who want to experience

Sikkimese rural lives, village tourism with home stay facilities are encouraged by the

government. Tourists are offered opportunities to know not only about Sikkimese culture

but also engage oneself in the day to day activities of a rural life.




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3.14.4.4Physical and Social Infrastructure Facilities in Sikkim

Electricity and Power

The present peak demand of the state is of 96 MW even with considering industrial units.

The state currently generates 38.2 MW, but since 32.2 MW is generated through hydel

projects, which are run of the river scheme, there output comes down to 50% (up to 12

MW) during the winter months. Now with the liberalized power policy, Sikkim can look

forward for developing and exploiting its huge Hydo Power Potential which has been

assessed to 8000 MW peak with a firm base of 3000MW. 43% of the household have

power supply in the study area.




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Table 3.59

Details of physical and social amenities in the study area

S.No. Name of the

CD Block

Number of

inhabited

villages

Type of amenity available

Ed

uca

tion

Med

ical

Dri

nk

ing

wat

er

Pos

t O

ffic

e

Tel

eph

one

Tra

nsp

ort

com

mu

nic

atio

ns

Ba

nk

s

Agr

icu

ltu

ral

cred

it

soci

etie

s

Ap

pro

ach

by

pu

cca

road

Pow

er S

up

ply

1. Soreng 51 47

(92.16)

24

(47.06)

51

(100)

20

(39.22)

51

(100)

33

(64.71)

3

(5.88)

35

(68.63)

41

(80.39)

51

(100)

2. Namchi 94 88

(93.62)

33

(35.11)

94

(100)

34

(36.17)

94

(100)

48

(51.06)

4

(4.26)

28

(29.79)

85

(90.43)

94

(100)

Source: http://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/DCHB.html




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3.14.5 PRIMARY SURVEY

Community perception

The primary data collection was subsequently undertaken during process. This included

Individual and group assessments. The Individual assessment was done by using standard

questionnaire in non probability sampling method. The data were collected on

demographical particulars of the participants and perception of the participants towards

the project. The demographical details are included as household composition, education

levels, general health status, livelihood strategies, employment, This survey was also

focused five major various dimensions such as: 1) Economical; 2) Public Infrastructure

and services; 3) Social/cultural; 4) Environmental; 5) Health and well-being 6)

Psychological/personal. These domains assess the significant impact differences about

this proposed project. Apart from this expert done focused group discussion for

community and collective opinions of the proposed project. This study was carried on

population living in the 10 villages. The hamlets covered within 10 km of core and buffer

areas.

A primary study was collected from 165 participants from both, Darjeeling and West

Sikkim locations of the study area. This survey was conducted to identify the community

perception. In this connection, field experts used the technique of sampling to administer

a questionnaire on the existing awareness among the community on the project and its

potential impacts.

Table 3.60

Particulars of the participants

No Name No_HH TOT_P No of Participants

1 Tadong} 283 1445 14

2 Takuthang 278 1282 12

3 Chuchen 183 875 08

4 Tinzerbong 217 1037 10

5 Suldung 143 754 07

6 Segeng 175 864 08

7 Samsing 353 1802 18




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Source: Primary Data

Fig 3.34 Primary consultation with local communities

8 Suntaley 86 414 05

9 Dhalam 372 1886 18

10 Bomtar 201 944 09

11 Sadam 189 940 09

12 Rabikhola 69 373 04

13 Tsalumthang 173 901 09

14 Singbhumdera 460 2192 20

15 Liza Hill Tea Garden 356 1439 14

Total No of Participants 165




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Need assessment:

The Primary consultations survey has ascertained certain key expectations that are also

indicative of the local community’s attitude towards industrial development in the study

area. The Fig below shows the different needs and expectation of the respondents in

hierarchy with this project

Source: Primary survey

Fig 3.35 Community Need of the Study area

26% people from the participant group have more expectations on job (contractual

or regular) opportunities.

Development of civic amenities (22%) in the study area will be useful to

development of communities.

Most of the younger and educated people (20%) shared their view on conducting

skill development programs for the local communities,

Few of them said that encourage skilled and poor community people, this will help

and enhance their life and economic livelihood.

Most of the old age (above 60 years), women, and poor people (17%) looking for

free medical and health related support.

Support during natural calmaties, unexpected incidents will be helpful to the local

communities

Job Opportunities

26%

Civic Amenities

22%

Skill Development

15%

Educatonal assistance

20%

Health and medical support

17%

Need Assessment




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Major Findings of Socio-economic study

The following major socioeconomic findings are observed in the study area are presented

below

Most of the communities in the area are well aware about the project.

This hydro power project plays an important role in the development of the local

vicinities and state

It provides direct and indirect economical development within the study area.

This type of projects provides power at cheaper rate being perpetual and renewable

sources of energy.

Positive in the form more income to the local people, better infrastructure.

Increases the agricultural production increased and rural poverty declined.

The micro/mini hydels contribute to the meet the primary electricity needs.

This project also would help provide safe, reliable, sufficient and affordable electricity

for domestic consumption and industrial use.

It enhances income generation of agro-processing and small service business such as

mills and shops

Increase economic activity and tax revenues to the govt.

Picnic spot near the barrage as it can attract many visitors from the nearby places and

generate additional revenue not only for the government but also for the local people as

well.

R&R activated was done before starting the project, hence there are no chances for

migration and cultural influence on local communities.

Improve the quality of lives of students, housewives (women) and the rural households

and improved conditions in the quality of services

Exposure to health hazards from smoke created by fuel wood has been reduced.

The communities’ safety in general improves due to street lighting at night. Furthermore

women and children have more productive time which can be used for studying and thus

education is improved.




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Injuries and sickness of the staffs and workers and also of local residents due to accidents

and fires is not a regular phenomenon.

Hydroelectric power plant, the energy of water is utilized for generating electricity which

is pollution free and also inflation free energy due to absence of fuel costs.

Natural hazards such as land slide or cloud burst often seen in these villages.

The heavy movement of project vehicle sometimes may create traffic in roads and

transportation problem.

Fumes and dust start spoil the air quality which is a controllable factor. It is observed

during the survey that as the villages are surrounded mostly by hills and forests, hence the

air quality is relatively good in the project area.

People in the study area have high expectations from the potential of improvement in

connectivity of roads, bridges and public infrastructure in the immediate vicinity of the

project area.

The respondents believed that this project enhance their quality of life due to social and

economical growth.

They said that increasing of land and labour cost, employment generation and other civic

amenities will generate positive attitude for individual and community people.

CONCLUSION

The present Social Impact Assessment study was conducted within the study area of

Rammam HEPP Stage-III Run of River (ROR) in Darjeeling and Sikkim districts of West

Bengal and Sikkim. Both, secondary and primary details within the study area discussed.

It traditionally involved the use of technical and participatory analytical methods to

anticipate change but also encouraging the life cycle of projects to minimize negative

outcomes and maximize benefits. The early consideration of social impacts, the

alignment of activities with regional and community planning objectives, and meaningful

participation of community in decision making are key features. Apart from the SIA

process and findings it can be concluded that most the respondents have positive

perception towards implementation of the project.

CHAPTER – IV

ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL

IMPACTS & MITIGATION MEASURES




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CHAPTER-4

ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND

MITIGATION MEASURES

4.0 INTRODUCTION

The actual and anticipated impacts of the project activities on the environment have been

evaluated and predicted based on the information collected at the site and the information

provided by NTPC. The objective of the impact identification is to update and supplement

Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to mitigate the probable negative impacts that

might arise during further project activities. Therefore, in order to work out a strategic EMP,

it is imperative to identify the possibilities at various project stages, impact type and affected

environmental component, extent and severity. EIA is an activity designed to identify and

predict the impact on the environment, on human health and ecology, taking into account

the requirements of legislative proposals, policies, programs, operational procedures and to

communicate information about the impact.

The project is in construction stage since 2014 and more than 50% work has been

completed. The current impact assessment includes the actual impacts under various

attributes of the environment during construction and operation phase of the project.

Rammam Stage-III HEPP opeartional activities also includes positive socioeconomic

impacts in terms of increase in local business opportunities and on a larger perspective, by

providing potential energy security at a national level.

4.1 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

This section discusses the impacts of the project activities during construction and operation

phases on the environmental receptors that stand to get affected adversely by the project. It

discusses probable impacts during various phases of the project lifecycle on the

environmental and socioeconomic components. Adequate Environmental management

measures were incorporated during the entire planning of construction and operation stages




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of the project to minimize the adverse Environmental impacts and assure sustainable

development of the area.

4.2 IDENTIFICATION OF IMPACTS

Generally, the environmental and social impacts can be categorized as either primary or

secondary. Primary impacts are those, which are attributed directly by the project and

secondary impacts are those, which are indirectly induced and typically include the

associated investment and changed patterns of social and economic activities by the

proposed actions. The identification and prediction of likely impacts form the base of

identification of monitoring requirements and mitigating measures. Considering the various

project activites of Rammam Stage-III HEPP their likely impacts have been identified and

shown in the Table 4.1.

Table 4.1 Activities – Impacts/Risks Interaction Environmental Sensitivities

Project Activities

Environmental Attributes Physical Biological Socio-Economic

Soi

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Tou

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A. Construction Phase

Immigration of labour √ √ √ √ √ √ √Clearing Ground Cover √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Hauling / Excavation of construction material √ √ √ √ √ √ √Operation of construction equipment √ √ √ √ √ √Soil Erosion / Siltation √ √ √ √ √ Road Construction √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Muck disposal √ √ √ √ √ Sewage √ √Noise and Vibration √ √ √ √ √ √ Atmospheric Air Emissions √ √ √ Wastewater Generation √ √ √ √Soild / Hazardous Waste Disposal √ √ √ √ √ √ Fuel Combustion √ √




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Project Activities

Environmental Attributes Physical Biological Socio-Economic

Soi

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t

Wat

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Noi

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Socio-economic Impacts √ √ Water related diseases √ √ √ √ B. Operation Phase Change in hydrological regime √ √ √ √ √ Sewage √ √ √

√ - Shows Impact

4.3 IMPACTS ON LAND ENVIRONMENT

4.3.1 Construction Phase

During the construction period, topography of construction area has changed due to erection

of buildings, fills and cuts for construction of intake components of powerhouse, penstock

and other associated structures. The submergence area is 3.852 Ha which is located in

upstream of confluence of Rammam River near Lodhama Village in the Darjeeling district.

The major impacts anticipated on land environment are as follows:

Movement and operation of construction equipment

Soil erosion

Muck disposal

Impacts due to construction of roads

Acquistion of land


As the project is in advanced stage of construction in its all three units (Unit 1, 2, & 3) and

various types of equipment are already made available within the site. These include

crushers, batching plant, drillers, earth movers, rock bolters, etc. The siting of these

construction equipment is selected in such a way that causes minimum adverse impacts in




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terms of air pollution, water pollution, noise pollution and safety of labour on surrounding

environment based on the criteria of

Proximity to the site of use

Sensitivity of forests in the nearby areas

Proximity to habitations

In addition, land is also acquired for storage of quarried material before crushing, crushed

material, cement, rubble, etc. Efforts were made to site the contractor’s working space

(construction sites) in such a way that the adverse impacts on environment are minimal.

These are located on Government land at a safe distance from human population. The

human population too resides at a distance of at least 0.8 to 1 km from the construction sites.

Hence, adverse impacts on human population too are not anticipated.

Soil Erosion

The runoff from the construction sites will have a natural tendency to flow towards River

Rammam or its tributaries. For some distance downstream of major construction sites, such

as barrage/dam, power house, etc. there is a possibility of increased sediment levels which

will lead to reduction in light penetration, which in turn could reduce the photosynthetic

activity to some extent of the aquatic plants as it depends directly on sunlight. This change is

likely to have an adverse impact on the primary productivity of the affected stretch of River

Rammam. The runoff would increase the turbidity levels with corresponding adverse

impacts on photosynthetic action and productivity. Adequate measures need to be

implemented as a part of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to ameliorate the

adverse impact on this account to the extent possible.




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Concreting for Slop Stability and prevent Soil erosion at Power House Slope

Impact on Soil Materials, Vegetation and Human Health

To preprare site for construction, drilling, blasting and exchavation invariably results in land

degradation and generation of loose soil particles which are mostly fugitive dust. These

suspended dust particles are generally blown away along the wind direction and get

deposited on the canopy of surrounding trees, plant and agricultural crops thereby

interfering with photosynthesis and other physiological activities of the green vegetation.

The construction work is being carried out in river bed plain and hills which is far from

habitation and villages. Therefore fugitive dust emissions kept within the site and no impact

will be occure on human population.

The NOx gases react in the atmosphere to form Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) which may have

adverse effects on human health, particularly among people with respiratory illness. NOx

are pollutants that cause repiratory problems and weaken the body's immune system against

respiratory diseases such as influenza and pneumonia, can cause shortness of breath and

chest pains and increase a person's susceptibility to asthma. NOx emissions also contribute

into formation of green house gases.

However, hydro power project does not have major NOx emission sources like Thermal

Power plants. NOx emissions occur intermittently due to vehicular emissions, heavy

construction equipments, DG sets. However, these concentrations are negligible and does




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not have significant on ambient air quality. The ambient air quality at study are well below

the permissible limits of NAAQS, 2009.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a product of incomplete combustion of fosil fuel (Diesel, Petrol,

Kerosin etc.) and it may cause impact on human health. Carbon monoxide can

badly affect the central nervous system and people with cardiovascular disease. Carbon

monoxide leaves the brain struggling for sufficient levels of oxygen and this in

turn affects the heart, brain and central nervous system. As the traffic density of trucks is

about 45-50 trucks/hour which is very low than road traffic at plain areas or cities. The study

area is remote and undeveloped area, therefore vehicular density is also low. Pollution levels

from equipments and machinery, vehicles will be regularly monitored. Therefore there

would be insignificant impacts due to low emissions of CO on helath of workers and nearby

population.

Muck disposal

About 0.99 Mm3 muck is expected to be generated as a result of tunneling operations,

construction of roads, etc. Based on the geological nature of the rocks and engineering

properties of the soil, a part of muck is utilized as construction material. The balance muck

is being disposed at designated dumping sites in a planned manner so that it takes a least

possible space and is not hazardous to the environment.

An area of 6.66 Ha has been earmarked which can cater the entire quantity of muck to be

disposed. About 0.148 Mm3 of aggregate is utilized for filling and construction works from

muck generated during excavation of underground works like HRT and desilting chamber.

A toe wall has been created around the muck disposal site and more landscaping to be done

in the muck site. The overall idea is to enhance/maintain aesthetic view in the surrounding

area of the project in post-construction period and avoid contamination of any land or water

resource due to muck disposal. The terraces of the muck disposal area ultimately covered

with fertile soil and suitable plants planted adopting suitable bio-technological measures.




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Construction of roads

The project construction would entail significant vehicular movement for transportation of

large construction material, heavy construction equipment. About 18 km of new access

roads were planned as part of the project and the current status of the road construction is

given in Table 4.2.

Table 4.2 Details of Road Construction in the Project

Component Length (km) Location Present Status Barrage/dam complex

4 Right bank of Rammam (Lodhama Bridge – Adit1 – Adit2)

3.7 km length under construction

Power house complex

2.7 Along right and left banks of River Rammam

2.0 km length has been constructed and 0.7 km is yet to be constructed

Surge Shaft Complex 11.3 Road from power house to surge shaft

6.0 km length has been constructed and 5.3 km is yet to be constructed. WBM and protection measures under progress.

Total 18

The construction of roads leads to the following impacts:

The topography of the project area can give rise to erosion hazards due to net downhill

movement of soil aggregates. Removal of trees on slopes and re-working of the slopes

in the immediate vicinity of roads, erosion gullies, etc. With the removal of vegetal

cover, erosive action of water gets pronounced and accelerates the process of soil

erosion and formation of deep gullies. Consequently, the hill faces are removed of

vegetative cover and enormous quantities of soil and rock can move down the rivers,

and in some cases, the road itself may get washed out.

Construction of new roads increases the accessibility of an hitherto undisturbed areas

resulting in greater human interferences and subsequent adverse impacts on the

ecosystem.




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Increased air pollution during construction phase.

Postive impact on local population by increased accessibility from one bank of the

River Rammam to another.

The mitigation measures for above impact due to contruction of roads are provision of

appropriate drainage systems and water management structures, and promoted surface

protection and erosion control by using bioengineering methods. Retaining walls are most

important structures in hill road construction. To provide adequate stability to the roadway

and to the slope, retaining walls are being constructed on the valley side of the roadway. It is

also provided on the cut hill side to prevent land slide towards the roadway. Dry stone

masonry prefers to masonry in mortar as the former permits easy drainage of seeping water.

Impact on Micro-Climate

As the proposed project is Run of River (ROR) project, no large area would be submerged.

The barrage height is 23 m. In hydropower project major construction activities involve

blasting, drilling, surface excavation and concreting works at barrage site and excavation in

borrow areas. These activities shall not affect the ambient temperature, humidity, rainfall,

wind speed and direction and other meteorological parameters during construction.

Wind Speed: The wind speed in any area is dependent upon local topography and is

intimately connected with the development as high- and low-pressure zones. As the barrage

height is only 23 m and no high structure is proposed, hence it will not obstract in blow of

wind. Thus, no adverse impact on the regional wind speed is anticipated due to the

construction activities.

Temperature: No thermal process is involved in hydro power project. Although, Run of

River hydropower project involve cutting of tress at small scale which may cause a localized

temperature increase which shall be moderated by the trees in the green belt/afforstation

around the reservoir periphery. The impoundment of reservoir will also have slight colling




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effect in the vicinity area. The temperature pattern is a regional behavior and is not likely to

be affected very much by the construction activity.

Humidity: The variation in relative humidity depends mainly on the rainfall, wind,

temperature and other weather phenomenon that are regional in behavior. The excavation

and concreting activities are not likely to have any impact on the relative humidity in the

surrounding area. However; the humidity in the area may slightly increase due to creation of

waterbody (reservoir).

Atmospheric Pressure : As the wind speed and direction will not change due to project,

there would be no change in atmospheric pressure in the area.

Rainfall: The trend of rainfall depends on a regional pattern and is mainly governed by the

south west monsoon and disturbances in the Arabian Sea. There are limited number of tree

felling which will be compensated by compensatory afforestation and plantation. The

construction activities, therefore, are not likely to have any adverse impacts on rainfall

pattern.

Acquisition of Land

The total land required for the project is 74.077 Ha of which 66.777 Ha is acquired in West

Bengal and the balance 7.3 Ha is acquired in Sikkim. Details of Land Acquisition for

Rammam HEP, Stage-III given in Table 4.3

Table 4.3 Details of land acquired

Description of Land Acquired Acres Hectares

Government Land 25.561 10.344 Private Land 152.725 61.806

Diverted Forest Land (ROU) 4.761 1.927 Total Land 183.047 74.077




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Entire land for the project has been acquired and is in physical possession of NTPC. The

landuse has been permanently changed to industrial use due to construction of Barrage

Complex & Power House Complex including Approach Road, Muck Disposal Area, Storage

Facilities and Camps etc. The families who lost their land or homestead were provided with

adequate compensation etc. as per norms specified in National Policy on Resettlement and

Rehabilitation (2003) and R&R policy of NTPC (2005). One time settlement for R&R

package to affected PAPs has been agreed during VDAC meeting as per R&R policy. Total

of Rs. 3.58 Crores disbursed as per R&R policy till 31.03.2021.

4.3.2 Operation Phase

The operation phase, is likely to envisage impacts on the land use pattern due to diversion of

forest land for non – forest purposes i.e., for construction and widening of roads, installation

of surface components both upstream and downstream stretch of the river.

Diversion of Land/Change in Land Use Pattern

The project area lead to permanent change in the land use pattern. The total land

requirement for this project has been finalized to be 74.077 ha in which 1.927 ha is forest

land, 10.334 Ha is Government land and 61.806 ha is private land. The component wise

details of land use for Rammam Stage-III HEP is shown in Table 4.4 below

Table-4.4 Component Wise Detail of Land acquired for Rammam Stage-III HEPP

S. No. Components Area (ha) %

1 Barrage 8.50 11.47 2 Approach Roads 36.10 48.73 3 Tail Race Channel 8.130 10.97 4 Pen Stock and Surge Shaft 3.815 5.15 5 Power House 1.971 2.66 6 Township 8.903 12.0 7 Muck Disposal 6.661 8.99

Grand Total 74.076 100.00




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4.4 IMPACTS ON WATER QUALITY


The major sources of surface and ground water contamination during project construction phase are as follows:

Sewage from labour camps/colonies. Effluent from crushers. Impacts due to extraction of fine sand from riverbed Impact on Ground water

Sewage from labour camps/colonies

The project is in advanced stage of construction in its all three units (Unit 1, 2, & 3) and the construction is likely to last for a period of 6 years. The peak labour strength employed during project construction phase is about 1000. It has been observed from construction phase of the project that major works are contracted out and they bring their own skilled labour. However, it is only in the unskilled category, that locals were employed. The construction phase however, led to various allied activities in the area, thereby improvement in the employment scenario.

The labour population resides in 2 to 3 colonies near to the construction site. The total water requirements work out to be 70.0 KLD @ 70 lpcd. It is assumed that about 80% of the water supplied will be generated as sewage. Thus, total quantum of sewage generated is 56.0 KLD. This is being sent to Biodigester septic tank and treated water reused for landscaping or disposed into the river after treatment to achieve discharge standards.

Biodigestor Septic Tanks for Treatment of Sewage




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Effluents from crushers

During construction phase, the contractor involved in construction activities has

commissioned one crusher each at the barrage and the power house sites. The total capacity

of the two crushers is of 120-150 TPH. Water is required to wash the boulders and to lower

the temperature of the crushing edge. About 0.1 m3 of water is required per tonne of

material crushed. The effluent from the crusher contains high suspended solids, i.e. 3,000 to

4,000 mg/l. About 12-15 m3/hr of wastewater is being generated from each crusher. The

effluent, if disposed without treatment leads to marginal increase in the turbidity levels in

the receiving water bodies. The natural slope in the area is such that, the effluent from the

crushers will ultimately find its way in River Rammam. This amounts to a discharge of

0.0033 to 0.0042 cumecs. For minimum flow of 4.47 cumecs in River Rammam, the

composite value of suspended solids increased by about 3-4 mg/l, which is not expected to

lead to any significant impact on water quality. The crusher plant effluent is passed through

settling tank to remove the suspended solids and only the sediment free water is allowed to

enter the natural stream. The photographs of settling tanks provided at the construction sites

is shown below in Fig 4.1. Thus, the composite value of suspended solids increased by

about 0.2-0.4 mg/l. This increase is not expected to cause any significant impact on the

turbidity levels.

Fig 4.1 Settling Tank provided near crusher plant




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Impacts due to extraction of fine sand from river bed

The aggregate required for the project is being met by crushed fine sand. The natural sand of

River Rammam is also being used. The extraction of large quantity of building material like

stones, pebbles, gravel and sand affected the river water quality by increasing the turbidity

levels. This is mainly because of the fact that during excavation of material from river, the

dredged material gets released during:

- excavation of material from the river bed

- loss of material during transport to the surface

- overflow from the dredger while loading

- loss of material from the dredger during transport.

The cumulative impact of the above is the increase in turbidity levels during dredging

operations. It has also been observed that slope collapse is the major factor in increasing the

turbidity levels. If the depth of cut is too high, there is slope collapse, which releases a

sediment cloud, which goes outside the suction radius of dredged head. In order to ensure

that this does not happen, the depth of cut should be restricted such that:

H/C < 5.5

where

- unit weight of the soil

H - depth of soil

C - cohesive strength of soil

The following measures are being taken care of during extraction of fine sand from river bed

Establish an absolute elevation below which no extraction may occur

Concentrate in-stream extraction activities to minimise area of disturbance

Maintain river channel flood discharge capacity

Minimise activities that release fine sediment to the river

Review of cumulative effects by monitoring program




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Impact on Ground water

The ground water levels in the region could not be established, as is often the case in

mountainous terrain. Since the water usage is mainly from the river water for construction

purposes, no adverse impact on groundwater availability is expected. Dumping of wastes

also being undertaken at specified exposed surface locations only. The solid wastes being

disposed regularly through Nayabazar Jorethang Municipal Corporation (NJMC). Hence, no

negative effect is envisaged on the groundwater quality of the area.


The major sources of water pollution during project operation phase include:

Domestic sewage from project colony

Impacts due to flooding and Heavy Rain

Operation and Maintenance of equipments and heavyVehicles

Sediments

Change in Hydraulic Regime and Downstream Flows

Domestic sewage from project colony

During project operation phase, only source of liquid waste is sewage generated from staff

colony and office premises. In the operation phase, about 50 memebers will reside in the

project colony. Considering the staff of CISF and support services, it is estimated that about

100 families will reside in the project township during operation phase. Since, only a small

number of O&M staff of about 50 employees will reside in the well designed colony with

sewage treatment plant and other infrastructure facilities, the problems of water pollution

due to disposal of sewage is minimum. About 45 to 50 KLD of sewage will be generated.

Considering the BOD level in the untreated sewage as 200 mg/l, the total BOD loading will

be order of 8 to 9 kg/day. The disposal of sewage without treatment may lead to adverse

impacts on the receiving water bodies or land. Thus, the sewage generated from the project

colony will be treated in Biodigestor septic tanks of total capacity 97 KL. Thus, the impact

as a result of disposal of sewage by staff involved in project operation phase is anticipated

of low significance.




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Impacts due to flooding, Submergence and Heavy Rain

The flooding of previously forest and agricultural land in the submergence area will increase

the availability of nutrients resulting from decomposition of vegetative matter. In the

project, most of the land coming under water spread area is barren, with few patches of

trees.

Due to submergence, the major impacts will be on river regime and its existing land use will

be changed from river vally & green area to water body. However, the submergence area is

very small (3.852 Ha) only due to significantly small sized reservoir behind barrage. Due to

low tree density in the submergence area i.e. 290 per ha, will have insignificant impact on

local ecology. In view of above, the impact shall have no significance as well as magnitude.

The project is envisaged as a Run of River (ROR) scheme, with significant diurnal variations in water level. In such a scenario, significant re-aeration from natural atmosphere takes place, which maintains Dissolved Oxygen in the waterbody. Thus, in the project, no significant reduction in D.O. level in reservoir water is anticipated. In the operation phase of the project the water environment in general will not deteriorate as the water will be continuously used for power generation and will be released

simultaneously. For downstream usages of river course will have a minimum environmental flow of 1.0 cumec. The regular flushing operation of pond during monsoon shall not lead to the development of unwanted heaps / shoal in the flow section of the river bed which cause change in the river regime. The baseline study of water quality in respect of surface water and ground water has revealed that both are of good quality and the various water characteristics are within the tolerance limit as per IS: 10500 2012. The surface water meets the standards of drinking water quality. Therefore, seepage of good quality surface water from pond through rock acquirer shall least impair the obtaining quality of ground water. Operation and Maintenance of equipments and heavy Vehicles

There would be routine maitenenece of power equipments like transformers generators

motors & pumps which may involve leakage of oil and grease. Further, maitenence and




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washing of the heavy vehocles involved generation of effluents.The effluents from these

activities will be suitably treated.

Sediments

When a river flows along a steep gradient, it could carry a significant amount of sediment

load, depending on the degradation status of the catchment. When a hydraulic structure is

built across the river, it creates a reservoir, which tends to accumulate the sediment, as the

suspended load settles down due to decrease in flow velocity. The project is envisaged as a

Run of River (ROR) scheme, with a barrage. At regular intervals, the gates of the barrage

shall be opened to flush out the sediments. Thus, in the project, sedimentation problems are

not anticipated. However, during rainy season sedimentation may occur from disposal area

which will be mitigate by constructing toe wall and plantation on slopes and surface.

Change in Hydraulic Regime and Downstream Flows

Rammam river, the natural boundary between the states of West Bengal and Sikkim, is a major tributary of the Ranjit river which rises from the Mane Bhanjan - Tongbu - Phalut ridge of the lower Himalayas at an elevation of about 3631 m. Kali Khola, Shiri Khola, Lodhama khola, Jhepi Khola and Riyang Khola are the main tributaries of Rammam. Initially, Rammam flows along W-E direction for about 6 km upto the confluence with its tributary Kali Khola at EL. 2448 m. Further, its course changes towards N-S direction upto confluence with Shiri Khola at EL. 1542 after traversing 18 km from origin, where Stage-I of Rammam H.E scheme is located. The slope of the river is moderate in this stretch (1 in 11.25). Further downstream, river confluences with its tributary Lodhama Khola at EL. 900m where the power house of Stage-II of the Rammam H.E scheme is located. The tributaries Jhepi Khola and Riyang Khola join the river at about 2.5 km and 6.5 km downstream of confluence point of Lodhama Khola respectively. At an elevation of 700 m, the river takes an 'S' bend at 1.5km downstream of diversion structure of stage-III. The meandering course between the diversion weir and the proposed power house of Stage-III project is about 26 km and the average gradient is about 1 in 26. The river flows in westerly direction up to confluence with Rangit river at an elevation of 305 m. There is considerable




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snowfed region in the catchment area of Rammam river in its upper reaches. A significant portion of the catchment area is covered with dense forest. Rammam river has a length of about 42 km from its source in Phalut to its confluence point

with Rangit river at Naya Bazar. There are four hydroelectric projects located on the river:

Rammam Stage-I HEP (Under Development)

Rammam Intermediate HEP (Under Development)

Rammam Stage-II HEP (Under Operation)

Rammam Stage-III HEP (Under Construction)

The biggest impact of hydro power projects on hydrologic regime is on account of change in the free flowing condition of the river. With the construction of the proposed hydroelectric projects, the free flowing river in Rammam shall be available on an intermittent basis only for a length of 10.3 Km in a stretch of 31.6 km in River Rammam. The details are as presented in Table- 4.5 and Figure 4.2.

Table 4.5: Free Flowing Stretch of Rammam River

S. No.

Project Length of Free Flow of River

(km) 1 TWL of Rammam-I HEP & FRL of Rammam Intermediate HEP 1.0 2 TWL of Rammam Intermediate HEP and Trench Weir of

Rammam-II HEP 1.0

3 TWL of Rammam-II HEP & FRL of Rammam-III HEP 1.60 4 TWL of Rammam-III to confluence with Great Rangit River 6.70

The current norms of Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change are that atleast 1 km free river stretch should be available between TWL of upstream and FRL of downstream hydroelectric projects. These norms are followed in all the hydroelectric projects in the study area. Further, during operation phase, the minimum flow based on average lean weather flow that will be maintained in the river will be 1.0 cumecs downstream of barrage for meeting ecological flow requirement. Therefore, the downstream flow after implementation of the project is not likely to have any significant adverse impact.




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Figure 4.2 Cascade Development of Hydro Power Projects on Rammam River




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4.5 IMPACTS ON AIR ENVIRONMENT


In this project, air pollution occurs mainly during the project construction phase.

Considerable amount of air pollution during different stages of construction of diversion

structure, dam, power house, approach roads, etc. is identified. Suspended Particulate Matter

(SPM) is the main pollutant during construction. The major sources of air pollution during

construction phase are:

Pollution due to fuel combustion in various construction equipment

Fugitive emissions from crushers

Blasting Operations

Emissions from DG sets

Impacts due to vehicular movement

Impact due to Muck disposal

Pollution due to fuel combustion in various construction equipment

The lists of major equipment being used during construction phase are:

Dozer Dumpers Loaders Transit mixers Drill jumbos Rock bolting machine Compressors Drilling machines DG sets Batching plant Crushers, screening plant and rod mill

Air Pollution due to fuel combustion by above mentioned construction machinery and

equipment is minimum and short-term. Various construction machinery and equipment

consume fuel, normally diesel during their running / operation. Routine preventive




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maintenance of construction machinery and equipment will be done to comply with

vehicular emission norms.

Based on past experience in similar projects, the increase in PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NOx is

not expected to increase significantly due to combustion of fuel in construction equipment.

In the project, no significant impact on ambient air quality is expected as a result of

operation of various construction equipment.

Fugitive emissions from crushers

For the utilization of the river borne material for construction purposes one crusher each at

the barrage and the power house sites were installed. The total capacity of the two crushers

is of 120-150 TPH whose operation is likely to generate fugitive emissions. During crushing

operations, fugitive emissions comprising of the suspended particulate was identified.

Regular mist spray to contain the fugitive emissions from crushing operations is being

followed. During finalising the project layout, it was ensured that the labour camps,

colonies, etc. are located on the leeward side and outside the impact zone (about 0.8 to 1.0

km) of the crushers. Further water sprinkling is being resorted to at necessary places to

suppress the dust.

Blasting Operations

Blasting will result in vibration, which shall propagate through the rocks to various degrees

and causes loosening of rocks/boulders. CIMFR (Central Institute of Mining and Fuel

Research) has been engaged by both the Major Civil Contractors for design of blast pattern

and monitoring of tunnelling works. Geological Survey of India (GSI), is also associated

with NTPC, Rammam, vide MoU dated 8th Feb’ 2015, for supervision and advice on

tunnelling/ road construction and/ or any other vulnerable area of construction. During

tunneling operations, dust will be generated during blasting. ID blowers provided with dust

handling system to capture and generated dust. The dust will settle on vegetation, in the

predominant down wind direction. Appropriate control measures have been recommended

to minimize the adverse impacts on this account.




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Emissions from DG sets

It has been observed that 250 kVA silent DG set is being operated during emergency

situation. The emissions from the DG set include Particulate Matter (PM), Carbon

Monoxide (CO), Oxides of Nitirogen (NOx) and unburnt Hydrocarbons (HC). The emission

limits for DG sets as per notification GSR 232 (E) dated 31.03.2014 and GSR (E) dated

07.03.2016 are presented in Table 4.6 below.

Table 4.6 Emissions Limits for DG sets

Power Category Emission Limits (g/kWh) Smoke Limit (Light absorption co-

efficient per meter) NOx + THC or NOx

+ NMHC or RHC CO PM

Up to 19 kW ≤ 7.5 ≤ 3.5 ≤ 0.3 ≤ 0.7 More than 19 kW up to 75 kW

≤ 4.7 ≤ 3.5 ≤ 0.3 ≤ 0.7

More than 75 kW up to 800 kW

≤ 4.0 ≤ 3.5 ≤ 0.2 ≤ 0.7

proper maitennece of DG set with regular monitoring of emissions from DG set shall be

carried out to achieve emission norms.

Impacts due to vehicular movement

Presently the vehicular movement for transportation of various construction materials and

equipment at the project site is maximum of 45-50 trucks/hour. The current number of

vehicles is not of the magnitude so as to cause adverse impacts on ambient air quality.

The vehicular movement leads to generation of dust. However, such ground level emissions

do not travel for long distances, and their effect is limited to a distance of about 100 m from

the point of their origin. Similarly, marginal increase in Hydrocarbons, SO2 and NOx levels

are anticipated for a short duration. Thus, no major adverse impacts are anticipated on this

account. Ambient air quality levels in study area are well within the permissible limits of

NAAQS 2009. It indicates that there is no significant impact on ambient air quality due to

fuel combustion in equipment and vehicles. However, regular maintenance of vehicles,




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sprinkling of water where construction activities are prevalent, providing subsequent

vegetation etc. would greatly reduce such impacts.

The following mitigative measures are being followed during transportation activities

Transport trucks/tippers is being properly maintained.

Only PUC certificate issued vehicles are being used.

Avoiding of overloading of trucks beyond stipulated capacity by installing weigh

bridges.

Strict compliance of traffic rules and regulations


The results of ambient air quality monitoring baseline data for the period July 2020 to Sept

2020 shows that the parameters PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NOx are well within the standards

prescribed by NAAQS, 2009 as shown in Table 4.7

Table 4.7

Summary of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring

S.No. Parameter Range (µg/m3) Standard (µg/m3) 1. PM10 29.0-66.9 100 2. PM2.5 8.1-33.0 60 3. SO2 6.8-13.1 80 4. NOx 7.2-14.6 80

Since the project is a Run of River (ROR) scheme and does not involve major air emissions

during operation phase, therefore, it will have insignificant impact on the air quality of the

region.

4.6 IMPACTS ON NOISE ENVIRONMENT


In a water resource project, the impacts on ambient noise levels are expected only during the

project construction phase, due to earth moving machinery, etc. Likewise, noise due to

excavation, blasting, vehicular movement will have some adverse impact on the ambient

noise levels in the area. Various likely impacts considered include:

Impacts due to operation of various construction machinery and equipment




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Impacts due to increased vehicular movement

Noise generated due to drilling

Noise generated due to blasting

Impacts due to ground vibrations

Impacts on labour

Impacts due to operation of various construction machinery and equipment

The noise is generated during project construction by various operating heavy machinery &

equipments like pumps, air compressors, DG sets, drilling machines, dumpers etc. The areas

likely to be affected will be in the vicinity of main project components. Generally, the noise

levels due to operation of various construction machinery and equipment is given in Table

4.8.

Table 4.8

Noise level due to operation of various construction equipment

Equipment Noise level (dB(A)) Compressors 75-85 Cranes 82-85 DG Sets 72-82 Concrete placers 70-80 Batching plant 75-85 Pneumatically operated monkers 70-80 Drilling machines 85-95 Grouting, guniting, equipment 80-90 Crushers 68-70 Pumps 68-70 Vibrators 69-81 Saws 74-81

As seen from the above table, construction machinery & equipment produce noise levels in

the range 68-90 dB (A) from noise source as per CPCB. Under the worst case scenario,

considered for prediction of noise levels during construction phase, it has been assumed that

all these equipment generate noise from a common point. The crusher within the project

area shall be housed in a shed to contain noise. Screening activities shall generate average




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noise level of about 90 dB (A). Workers in the noise generating zone will be provided with

earmuffs/earplugs besides dust mask.

Walls of various houses or other structure will attenuate at least 30 dB(A) of noise. In

addition there is noise attenuation due to the following factors.

Air absorption

Rain

Atmospheric inhomogeneties.

Vegetal cover

Thus, no increase in noise levels are anticipated as a result of various activities, during the

project construction phase due to the following:

assumption that all equipment are operating from a common point leads to over-

estimation of increase in noise level

attenuation of 30 dB(A) of noise by wall of any structure

noise attenuation due to various factors.

Impacts due to increased vehicular movement

During construction phase, there is significant increase in vehicular movement for

transportation of construction material. At present, the vehicular movement is maximum of

45 to 50 trucks/hour. As a part of EIA study, impact on noise level due to increased

vehicular movement was studied using Federal Highway Administration model. The results

of modelling are outlined in Table 4.9.

Table 4.9 Increase in noise levels due to increased vehicular movement

Distance (m) Ambient noise level dB(A)

Noise levels due to increased vehicular movement dB(A)

Increase in ambient noise level due to increased

vehicular movement dB(A) 10 42.6 70.6 28 20 43.8 66.8 23 50 47.6 68.6 21

100 40 56 16




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Distance (m) Ambient noise level dB(A)

Noise levels due to increased vehicular movement dB(A)

Increase in ambient noise level due to increased

vehicular movement dB(A) 200 39 51 12 500 42 49 7

1000 40 44 4

As mentioned earlier, there will be significant attenuation due to various factors, e.g.

absorption by construction material, air absorption, atmospheric inhomogeneties, vegetal

cover. The vehicle movement is restricted to day time to reduce the impact of noise

pollution on surrounding environment. Thus, no significant impact on this account is

anticipated.

Noise generated due to drilling

The noise levels monitored at a 10 m distance from the source and operator’s cabin is given

in Table 4.10.

Table 4.10 Noise generated due to drilling

Equipment Noise level at source dB(A) Standing idle (inside cabin) 70-72 Standing idle (10 m radius) 72-74 On load (inside cabin) 78-80 On load (10 m radius) 82-84

The noise levels during various construction activities have been compared to various

standards prescribed by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which are

being implemented in our country through rules framed under Factories Act. It can be

observed (Refer Table 4.12) that for an 8 hour duration, equivalent noise level exposure

should be less than 90 dB(A).

The Director General of Mines Safety in its circular no. DG(Tech)/18 of 1975, has

prescribed the noise level in mining operations for workers in 8 hour shift period with

unprotected ear as 90 dB(A) or less. Similar norms can be considered for construction phase

of the project as well. The workers who are expected to be exposed to noise levels greater




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than 90 dB(A), should not work in these areas beyond 6 to 8 hours. In addition, they also

need to be provided with ear plugs. Thus, increased noise levels due to drilling are not

expected to adversely affect the workers operating the drill or involved in other mining

activities closely.

Noise generated due to blasting

Noise generated by blasting is instantaneous, site specific and depends on type, quantity of

explosives, dimension of drill hole, degree of compaction of explosives in the hole and rock.

Noise levels generated due to blasting have been monitored at various sites and the results

have been summarized in Table 4.11.

Table 4.11 Noise generation due to blasting

No. of holes Total charge (kg)

Maximum charge/delay (kg)

Distance (m) Noise level dB(A)

15 1500 100 250 76-85 17 1700 100 250 76-86 18 1800 100 250 74-85 19 1900 100 400 70-75 20 2000 100 100 76-80

At the blast site with the given diameter of holes and their pattern, the noise levels are

expected to be in the range of 120-130 dB (A) and tend to decrease with increase in distance

of receptor. It can be observed from Table 4.11, that noise level due to blasting operations

are expected to be of the order of 75-86 dB(A) at a distance of 250 m. The baseline noise

level monitoring shows that the ambient noise levels in the area during day time ranged

from 50.8-62.5 dB(A) and night time noise level ranged from 42.6 to 55.6 dB(A). Since, the

nearest settlement is about 0.8 to 1.0 km away, the incremental noise due to blasting is

expected to be 40-50 dB(A). As the blasting is likely to last for 4 to 5 seconds depending on

the charge, noise levels over this time would be instantaneous and short in duration.

Considering attenuation due to various sources, even the instantaneous increase in noise

level is not expected to 70 dB(A). Hence, noise level due to blasting is not expected to cause

any significant adverse impact.




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Impacts due to ground vibrations

The explosive energy generated during blasting sets up a seismic wave within the surface, that affects the structures and cause discomfort to human population. When an explosive charge is fired in a hole, stress waves traverse in various directions, causing the rock particles to oscillate. Blasting also generates ground vibrations and instantaneous noise. Ground vibrations are acoustic waves that propagate through rocks. Although the difference in accelerations, amplitude, particle velocities and the frequencies in three direction result into damage to structures but the peak particle velocity and frequency are normally taken into consideration for evaluating the structural response. Various measures have been recommended to minimize the adverse impacts due to blasting: Proper design & development of blast hole.

Use of non-electric system of blasting for true bottom hole initiation.

Use of muffling mats to arrest the dust and fly rock.

Impacts on labour

Due to high noise levels of construction machinery the personnel operating the machines, workers and technical staff stationed, working near to the machines are prone to exposure of high levels of noise. It is known that continuous exposures to high noise levels above 90 dB(A) affects the hearing acuity of the workers/operators and hence, should be avoided. To prevent these effects, it has been recommended by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) that the exposure period of affected persons be limited as in Table 4.12.

Table 4.12 Maximum Exposure Periods specified by OSHA

Maximum equivalent continuous Noise level dB(A)

Unprotected exposure period per day for 8 hrs/day and 5 days/week

90 8 95 4 100 2 105 1 110 ½ 115 ¼ 120 No exposure permitted at or above this level




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4.7 IMPACTS ON ECOLOGY

The impacts on the biodiversity of the area will be very low as it is "Run-of- River" (ROR)

scheme. The ecological setup in the project affected stretch between barrage, HRT and TRT

site is of concern.

4.7.1 Terrestrial Ecology

Increased Human Interferences

The direct impact of construction activity of any water resource project in a Himalayan

terrain is generally limited in the vicinity of the construction sites only. As mentioned

earlier, a large population (about 1000) including technical staff, workers and other group of

people are engaged during the project construction phase. It can be assumed that the

technical staff will be of higher economic status and will live in a more urbanized habitat,

and will not use wood as fuel, if adequate alternate sources of fuel are provided. Around 200

labours are local residents. To minimize this impact, LPG gas is being used for officers &

staff engaged in the construction work. Adequate fuel for labour camp (30 LPG cylinders,

Kerosene & fire wood) is provided by the contractor. Also, fuel depot at Jorethang (South

Sikkim) is available within accessible reach from site.

The other major impact on the flora in and around the project area is due to increased level

of human interferences. The workers may also cut trees to meet their requirements for

construction of houses, furniture. Normally in such situations, lot of indiscriminate tree

felling or wastage of wood is also observed, especially in remote or inaccessible areas. Thus,

proper measures are being undertaken, so as to avoid any significant adverse impacts on

terrestrial flora.

Acquisition of forest land

The project requires 74.077 ha of the land for project related activities of which about 1.927

ha is the forest land which has been diverted. The details of land required for various project

appurtenances are listed in Table 4.4.




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As a part of the EIA study, detailed Ecological survey was conducted for one season. Based

on the findings of the survey, it can be concluded that the density and diversity in the project

area acquired is quite low. The forest in and around the project area is quite degraded. No

rare or endangered species are observed within the project area. The tree density observed at

various sampling sites is given in Table 4.13.

Table 4.13 Tree density at various sampling sites

Sampling location Tree density (No/ha) Submergence area 290 Penstock alignment 200 Power house site and colony area 190 Adit at desilting chamber 240 Adit at Jhepi khola 210

The tree density at various sampling site ranges from 190 to 290 trees/ha. At submergence

area, the tree density is 290 trees/ha, while at other sampling locations, the density ranges

from 190 to 240 trees/ha. Normally in a good forest, the tree density is of the order of 1000-

1200 per Ha. The diversity too is high in such forests. However, in the project area, a

maximum of 8 to 10 tree species of trees viz. Albizia chinensis, Alnus nepalensis, Bischofia

javanica, Duabanga grandiflora, Engelhardtia spicata, Erythrina arborescens, Ficus

reticulata, Gynocardia odorata, Schima wallichii and Tetradium fraxinifolium have been

observed at any sampling sites covered as a part of the Ecological Survey. No rare and

endangered floral species are observed. Thus, overall project area is categorized as degraded

and no major impact due to various activities during project construction and operation

phases are envisaged. The forest area was already diverted and compensatory afforestation

fund have been deposited to the Forest Department of West Bengal and Sikkim.

Impacts due to increased accessibility

Improved access to the presently virgin area during and after construction of the Project

would put pressure on the forest adjoining to the Project site and will open an avenue to




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encroachers for illegally entering in to the forests which may lead to degradation of nearby

forests, if not managed properly.

The project area is located at a distance of about 9 km from nearest boundary of Singalila

National Park and about 4.4 km from the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, West Sikkim.

None of the components of the project are situated within the National Park. Thus, no

impact is expected on the National Park. However, Wildlife Conservation Plan has been

prepared and will be submitted to state forest department for implementation. The details of

measures to improve the terrestrial ecology of the area are covered in Chapter 10

Environmental Management Plan (EMP).

Disturbance to Wildlife

During construction phase, large number of machinery and construction labour was

mobilized. The operation of these construction equipment, and blasting generates noise

which lead to some disturbance to wildlife population. From the available data, the area

does not have significant wildlife population. Likewise, siting of construction equipment,

godowns, stores, labour camps, etc. lead to adverse impacts on fauna, in the area. Likewise,

area does not appear to be on the migratory routes of any animals and therefore the

construction of the project is not being affected the wildlife.

Based on field observations and interactions with locals, etc. it was found that no major

fauna is observed in the project area. The forests in the area are quite degraded (tree density

190-290 trees/ha). Normally, in such conditions, human interferences are generally high,

leading to large scale tree falling. As a result, major wildlife species is not reported in such

areas. Thus, impact on terrestrial fauna is not expected to be significant. Stray animals,

however, may some times drift to the construction site. It should be ensured through

stringent anti-poaching surveillance that the stray animals are not killed.




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National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary

None of the project components are located within National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuary or

other protected area or within the notified Eco sensitive zones of these protected area. As

confirmed by CCF (WL), West Bengal vide letter dated 01.02.2008 copy attached as

Annexure-XIV, the project area is at a distance of about 7.1 km from the nearest boundary

of Eco-sensitive Zone of Singalila National Park. However, the Singalila National Park is

about 9.0 km from the project components as notified by MOEF&CC notification No. S.O.

3613 (E) dated 16.11.2017 (copy enclosed as Annexure-XV). The Eco Sensitive Zone of

Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is at 4.2 km from the project site and 4.4 km away from

boundary of Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, West Sikkim notified by MOEF&CC

notification No.S.O.2172 (E) dated 27.08.2014 (copy enclosed as Annexure-XVI) and about

10 km from the nearest boundary of the reserve forest area of Darjeeling Territorial Forest

Division.

Project components are outside the Eco Sensitive Zone of Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife

Sanctuary of Sikkim. The officals from Forest/wildlife department have visted site on

05/04/2021 to certify the that the no project component falls within boundary of any

National Nark and Wild life Sanctuary.

4.7.2 Aquatic Ecology

Construction Phase

The construction of the Rammam Stage-III HEPP involves large scale extraction of different

types of construction material from the river bed including boulders, stones, gravel, sand,

etc. Extraction of gravel and sand causes considerable damage to fish stocks and other

aquatic life by destabilizing the sub-stratum, increasing the turbidity of water, silting of the

channel bottom and modifying the flow which in turn may result in erosion of the river

channel. These alterations upset the composition and balance of aquatic ecosystem. The

material at the river sub-stratum like stones and pebbles often provide anchorage and home

to the invertebrates who remain attached in a fast flowing streams. During fish spawning

season, fertilized eggs are laid amidst the gravel, where it is made sure, that eggs are not




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washed away in fast flowing stream. The eggs of almost all species are sticky in nature

which provide additional safety. The turbidity in excess of 100 ppm brought by suspended

solids chokes the gills of young fish.

During construction of a river valley project, huge quantity of debris is generated at various

construction sites. The debris, if a separate area for dumping of the material is not marked,

invariably would flow down the river during heavy precipitation. Such a condition adversely

affects the development of aquatic life. AT Rammam HEPP, muck is being disposed at

designated dumping sites so that it takes a least possible space and is not hazardous to the

environment. A toe wall has been created around the muck disposal site and landscaping to

be done in the muck site.

Impacts due to excavation of construction material from river bed

The excavation of construction material is likely to affect the survival and propagation of

micro-benthic organisms. The macro-benthic life which remains attached to the stones,

boulders etc. gets dislodged and is carried away downstream by turbulent flow. The areas

from where construction material is excavated, benthic flora and fauna gets destroyed. In

due course of time, however, the area gets recolonized. The density and diversity of benthic

flora and fauna, is however, much lesser as compared to the pre-dredging levels.

Impacts due to discharge of sewage from labour camp/colony

During construction phase wastewater mostly from domestic source will be discharged from

various camps of workers actively engaged in the project area. Around 70 KLD of water is

required for the workers during the peak construction phase out of which 80% (i.e. about 56

KLD) will be discharged back to the river as wastes, more or less as a point sources from

various congregation sites where workers will reside. Due to perennial nature of River

Rammam sufficient water for dilution is available to keep the DO of the river to

significantly high levels. Therefore there would be no significant impact envisaged due to

discharge of treated sewage.




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Impacts due to increased human activities

The increase of human activities in the project area, results in enhancement in indiscriminate

fishing, which can adversely affect the riverine ecology. Indiscriminate fishing will reduce

fish stock availability for commercial and sport fishermen. Thus, it is recommended that

adequate surveillance measures are implemented during project construction phase to

ameliorate such impacts.

Operation Phase

The completion of Rammam Stage-III HEP would bring about significant changes in the

riverine ecology, as the river transforms from a fast-flowing water system to a quiescent

lacustrine environment. Such an alteration of the habitat would bring changes in physical,

chemical and biotic life. Amongst the biotic communities, certain species can survive the

transitional phase and can adapt to the changed riverine habitat. There are other species

amongst the biotic communities, which, however, for varied reasons related to feeding and

reproductive characteristics cannot acclimatize to the changed environment, and may

disappear in the early years of impoundment of water. The micro-biotic organisms

especially diatoms, blue-green and green algae before the operation of project, have their

habitats beneath boulders, stones, fallen logs along the river, where depth is such that light

penetration can take place. But with the damming of river, these organisms may perish as a

result of increase in depth. Amongst the aquatic animals, it is the fish life which would be

most affected. The migratory route of fish species, like Mahaseer and snow trout is likely to

be affected due to the construction of the project.

With the completion of project, and diversion of flow for hydropower generation, following

changes are expected

- reduced flow rate

- increase in water temperature

- reduction in availability of stano-thermal aquatic animals

- increase in population of euro-thermal species.




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Unless the desired flow is maintained downstream of the barrage/dam, aquatic ecology in

general and fisheries in particular would be affected. Mahaseer (Schizothorax sp.) is

reported in River Rammam which may not be able to cross the barrage/dam for breeding.

The implementation of fish management plan including construction of a hatchery has been

taken up with fisheries department, Govt. of West Bengal as well as with the Fisheries

Department of Sikkim.

Impacts on migratory fish species

The obstruction created by the barrage would hinder the migration of certain migratory

species especially Mahaseer. Schizothorax (from upper reaches to the lower reaches). This

species undertakes annual migration for feeding and breeding. Finding their migratory path

obstructed due to the barrage, they are expected to congregate below the barrage wall and

will be indiscriminately caught by the poachers. This leads to adverse impact on the

migratory fish species. It is proposed to stock River Rammam upstream and the downstream

sides. On upstream side, stocking will be done upto diversion structure of Rammam-II

HEP. On the downstream, stocking will be done upto confluence of River Rangit with River

Rammam.

4.8 IMPACT ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

The socio-economic profile of the families of the study area has been outlined in Chapter 3

of this EIA Report. It is observed that a subsistence economy prevails amongst most of the

people. Most of them are primarily dependent upon agriculture. However, a few of families

to augment their income through / are dependent on jobs and business.

There is some migration of labor force from outside the project area during construction

phase, which may put some pressure on local settlements and resources. The project

envisages all round development and growth in the region as a whole. However, few local

people were affected in the form of acquisition of their land. Members of families were

provided with R&R package as per NPRR-2003.




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4.8.1 Positive Impacts

The following positive impacts are anticipated on the socio-economic environment of the

local people of villages around the project area during the Project construction and

operation phases:

A number of marginal activities and jobs would be available to the locals in the vicinity of

project thus providing opportunities for the skilled or unskilled people such as jobs, petty

contracts during project construction phase etc.

The availability of electricity to the rural areas will reduce the dependence of the

locals on forests.

With increased availability of electricity, small-scale & cottage industries are likely

to come up in the area.

Better Living Standards

Access to improved infrastructure facilities

Health facilities are likely to develop further.

Implementation of Catchment Area Treatment will reduce soil erosion, increase soil

fertility and improve forest resources.

Clean and Renewable Source of Energy

Hydropower is one of the non-polluting and eco-friendly Renewable source of Energy. On

completion, the project would provide 3x40 MW of electricity. Also, there will be less

consumption of fuel by saving the depleting resources and reduction in Greenhouse Gas

emissions. With the construction of Ramman Stage-III HEP, CO2 emissions will be

eliminated. The other indirect benefits of hydropower project over thermal one are reduction

in water pollution, noise pollution, thermal, fly-ash and health effects in and around the area.

Increased Infrastruture

Besides improvement to the existing infrastructure, new infrastructure will be created with

the implementation of the project. Basic infrastructures like roads, health facilities,

educational facilities etc. will be developed. The people of the area will be benefited due to




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development of better infrastructure in the project area. About Rs.1149.26 Lakhs have been

spent on CSR-CD activities till date.

Benefits to Economy

Apart from direct employment, the opportunities for indirect employment will also be

generated which would provide great impetus to the economy of the local area. Various

types of business-like shops, food-stall, tea stalls, etc. besides a variety of suppliers, traders,

transporters will concentrate here and benefit immensely as demand will increase

significantly for almost all types of goods and services. The business community as a whole

will be benefited.

Development of infrastructure and availability of reliable power supply as a result of the

project realization would contribute to the stimulation of economic activities like small scale

industries in the area. Additional power generation will mitigate the power shortage in the

country. Some of the local people may be permanent jobs during the operational phase of

the project depending on their skill and performance. The project will act as stimulant to

improve the economy both at the local and National levels.

Impact on Holuy Places and Tourism

No Holy place like temples, Church, mosque and Monastery are located within project site.

No Holy place of national importance is located within Study Area. Therefore no significant

impact on holy places due to project. The barrage of project will promote the tourism

activities in the area.

4.8.2 Negative Impacts

Increased Incidence of Water-Related Diseases

There is a close relationship between water and public health. The commissioning of project

can have both beneficial and adverse impacts on the health of the people in and around the

project area. The negative impacts foreseen are increase of certain vector-borne diseases like

malaria. The following factors are rendered responsible for vector-borne diseases:

a) Aggregation of labour population.




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b) Excavations and water accumulation.

Aggregation of Labour Population

During the construction phase, new groups come and go constantly keeping the human

population in aflux. These people, if housed in temporary dwelling without proper sanitary

conditions and water supply may pose health hazard, if precautions are not taken the vector-

borne disease epidemiology may show sudden or long lasting change. Once they settle in

labour camps/colonies, increased incidence of various diseases may occur. The over

crowding may lead to increased incidence of respiratory infection and tuberculosis. The

scarcity of water in the houses and the absence of sanitary facilities in labour camps may be

responsible for increased prevalence of gastro enteritis and other diarrhoeal diseases. This

aspect needs to be looked into with precaution, and effort must be made to ensure that a

thorough check up of the labour population congregating in the area is conducted.

Excavations and water accumulation

The excavation of earth from burrow pits etc. is one of the major factors for the increase in

prevalence of malaria. After the excavation of sand/earth the burrow areas if left without

treatment, water will be collected. These pools of water then will serve as breeding grounds

for mosquitoes. However, area having cold climatic condition does not help much on this

account. These depressions are likely to be filled up during the subsequent floods. But, these

borrow sites may not serve as a potential breeding habitats for mosquitoes as the water will

always be running/flowing through the pits.

The NTPC Rammam Stage-III HEP will result on positive socio-economic development in

and around the project area. However the minimal adverse impact on the socio economic

environment would be experienced. Assuming that mitigation measures are incorporated to

minimize potential adverse impacts on socio economics would be expected to be nominal.




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Summary of Anticipated Social Impact Assessment & Mitigation Measures:

Impact Area Pre Mitigation Significance

Mitigation Post Mitigation Significance

Relocation of Local Community

Medium R&R completed for this project

Low

General Characteristics and trends in population of region

Low No potential change on population of region due to this project & hence no mitigation envisaged.

Low

Migration trends in study area

Low/NIL No Impact on migration trends as local labour utilized during construction and very few people of non locals with necessary expertise during Construction & Operation stage

Low

Population characteristics in study area, including distributions by age, sex, ethnic groups, educational level and family size

Low No Impact on population Distributions, and hence no mitigation envisaged.

Low

Distinct settlement of ethnic groups or deprived economic/ minority groups

Low No Disruption in settlement patterns of people envisaged

Low

Economic history for the region

Low Positive Impact due to Increase of income levels of the region due to this project

Medium

Employment pattern in study area, including occupational distribution and location and availability of work force

Low Temporary or regular employment is expected to work during jetty construction period and laying activity.

Low/Medium

Income levels and tends for study area

Low/Medium Positive Impact - Increase the income levels

Medium

Land values in study area Low Positive Impact - Increase land values around the vicinity

Low/Medium




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Housing characteristics in study area, including in types of housing and occupancy levels

Low/Medium No Change Envisaged Low

Health and social services in study area, including health, workforce, law enforcement, fire protection, water supply, wastewater treatment facilities, solid waste collection and disposal and utilities

Low - Periodic Health Check up of Construction Workers & necessary medication being conducted

- Periodic Check on Potable Water supplied and good housekeeping practices.

Medium

Public and private educational resources in study area

Low No Change Envisaged Medium

Community cohesion, including organized community groups

Low No Potential impact on community cohesions

Low

Areas of unique significance such as cemeteries of religious camps

Low No Disruption of unique areas Low

Archaeological Heritage Sites effected

Low No Archaeological Heritage Sites are disturbed or lost or effected in any way and hence no preservation plan required,

Low

The resulting terms for the overall assessment for each socio economic environment aspect

were defined as follows:

High: impact acceptable if any criterion is awarded as high grade.

Medium: tolerable risk/ impact not acceptable if managed to level that is As low As

reasonably practicable, if the criteria have grades combining medium & low; and

Low/NIL: negligible risk/impact acceptable than all criteria are low or Nil




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4.9 IMPACT ON GEOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

Geological study for the project and study area was carried out and have been discussed in

Chapter-3 of EIA report. Geologically the area comprise of Buxa formation comprising of

dolomite, phyllite and quartzite,Darjeeling formation comprise of migmatite gneiss, calc-

silicate lenses, Kanchanjunga formation is represented by augen gneiss, quartzite,

amphibolites, migmatitic gneiss rocks,Chungthang formation comprise of quartz-biotite

gneiss, calc-silicate, marble, quartzite, kyanite and granite schists and Quatenary deposits of

alluvium with assorted gravel and fragments of gravels, pebbles, boulders and terrace covers

are developed sporadically along the streams and rivers.

As the project is Run of River Project, no large dam or reservoir is envisaged to construct.

Therefore no large scale drilling and blasting is involved for construction of barrage. As per

site specific investigations, the geological formations in the underconstruction project sites

are considered stable and will be able to withstand the impacts of drilling and blasting.

Hence, controlled blasting with use of multi-second delay detonators is being used at such

geologically fragile locations. Intensity of anticipated impacts on geology will be low based

on magnitude of operation and degree of disturbance. Therefore, intensity of anticipated

environmental impact on geology of the area will be weak and extent of anticipated impact

will be local. Duration of impact will be shor term leading to low significance of the impact.


intensities in the last 100-120 years. The significant ones are the Great Assam Earthquake of

12thJune 1897 and Dhubri Earthquake of 15thJanuary, 1934. The project area forms a part of

the seismic zone-IV (as per seismic zoning map of BIS). As per Bureau of Indian Standard

(BIS) recommendation 0.1 g horizontal and 0.05 g vertical acceleration is considered for

design of structures on consolidated foundations.

The intensity of anticipated environmental impact on geology of the area will be weak and

the disturbances to local geology due to tunneling work will be restored by concreting. No

impact is anticipated on the geology of the area during the operation phase.




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4.10 IMPACT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

The project is a run of river (ROR) scheme. Therefore use of natural resources boulders,

sand stones in construction will be less in comparision of large hydro power project. The

area nearby upstream of barrage site will have sufficient amount of water for domestic use.

But on the other side, population between downstream of barrage and tail race may face

water scarcity . However, minimum environmental flow will be maintained for existence of

aquatic life and meet the water demand of local population. The water flow after penstock

and tailrace area will be normal as during pre-construction stage. The immigration of labour

may results in increased use of fuelwood and cutting of trees. Adequate LPG Cylinders are

being provided to avoid the tree cutting for fuel.

CHAPTER – V

ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES




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CHAPTER-5

ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

5.0 GENERAL

The analysis of alternative is the process of comparing potential impacts and mitigation

options of a series of alternative location, technologies, operation to identify optimal

alternatives that meets national legislation. These alternatives can include variations in

layout, alternative engineering process, routing, linear facilities and screening of material

suppliers to select those with appropriate environmental and risk management system.

5.1 ALTERNATE LOCATION FOR THE PROJECT

The project was accorded Environmental Clearance (EC) in 2007 and MOEF&CC vide

its letter dated 13.07.2017, extended the validity of Environmental Clearance (EC) for a

further period of 3 years i.e. up to 16.08.2020.


amended the EIA Notification, 2006 and made a provision that period from 01.04.2020 to

the 31.03.2021 shall not be considered for the purpose of calculation of the period of

validity of prior Environmental Clearance in view of outbreak of Corona Virus (COVID-

19) and subsequent lockdowns. In this regard, the Environment Clearance for Rammam

HEPP is valid till 16.08.2021.

MoEF&CC issued Terms of Reference for the Rammam Hydro Power Project, Stage III

(3x40 MW) vide F.No. J-12011/11/2020-IA-I (R) dated 12th February, 2021 and

Environmental Impact Assessment was prepared for one season baseline data i.e. July’

2020 to September’ 2020.

As the project is already in advanced stage of construction, no change in site is possible

at this stage and the analysis of site is not relevant for this project.




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5.2 ALTERNATE TECHNOLOGY

The site for diversion structure is located downstream at the confluence of Rammam with

Lodhama khola near Lodhama village just downstream of the power house of Rammam

Stage-II HEPP (51 MW under operation by WBSEDCL formerly by WBSEB). The site

for power house is located near village Barbatia on the right bank of River Rammam. The

alternative that envisages the construction of a diversion structure on River Rammam just

downstream of its confluence with River Lodhama Khola gives the maximum returns in

terms of energy generation, higher load factor with lowest cost, therefore was considered

to be the best option.

The Rammam Hydro Electric project is a Run of River (ROR) project on River Rammam

and envisages several developments and facilities. The advantage of not having a large

amount of water storage is that less land is flooded and therefore the potential

environmental footprint impacts are reduced. Run of River (ROR) hydro projects directly

distribute economic benefits to a larger number of communities and municipalities

compared to large hydroelectric projects.

As the project is already in advanced stage of construction, and more than 50% work has

been completed, no change in technology is possible at this stage and the analysis of

alternate technology is not relevant for this project.

5.3 CONCLUSION

The project will have positive benefits in terms of revenue generation to central and state

government by generating electricity. The project has generated direct and indirect

employment opportunities as well as opportunities for self-employment.

In addition, the proposed project is not located in any Eco Sensitive Zone or National

Park or Wildlife Sanctuary. Consideration of these alternatives with strict compliance to

the Environment Management and Monitoring Plans suggested will ensure minimal

impact on the Environment.

CHAPTER –VI

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

PROGRAMME




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CHAPTER-6

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

6.0 INTRODUCTION

Periodic monitoring of environmental parameters is of immense importance to assess the

sustainability of any water resources project during construction as well as operation

phase. With the knowledge of baseline conditions, the environmental monitoring

programme serve as an indicator for any deterioration in environmental conditions due to

operation of the project, to enable taking up suitable mitigatory steps in time to safeguard

the environment. The post monitoring results compared with the baseline status of the

environment provide an important tool to check the implementation of the management

plan. Monitoring is as important as that of control of pollution since the efficiency of

control measures can only be determined by monitoring.

Usually, as in the case of the study, an Impact Assessment study is carried over short

period of time and the data cannot bring out all variations induced by the natural or

human activities. Therefore, periodic monitoring programme of the environmental

parameters is essential to take into account the seasonal variation and changes in the

environmental quality due to project operations.

6.1 OBJECTIVE OF MONITORING

The objectives of monitoring are to:

Verify effectiveness of planning decisions;

Measure effectiveness of operational procedures;

Confirm statutory and corporate compliance; and

Identify unexpected changes.

6.2 AREA OF CONCERN

From the monitoring point of view, important parameters considered are meteorology, air

quality, water quality, soil, noise, ecology, erosion and siltation, land use, afforestation,

socio-economy, etc. Monitoring becomes essential to ensure that the mitigation measures




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planned for environmental protection function effectively during the entire period of

project operation. Suggested monitoring details are outlined in the following sections:

6.3 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY AND METEOROLOGY

Construction Phase

The ambient air quality monitoring during construction phase is being carried out by an

external agency, approved by SPCB at four stations namely Salingdong, Lodhama, Jhepi

and Barbatia. Every year monitoring is done for the following three seasons:

- Winter

- Summer

- Post-monsoon

The frequency of monitoring is twice a week for four consecutive weeks at each station

for each season. The parameters to be monitored are Particulate Matter 10 (PM10),

Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5), Sulphur dioxide (SO2) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx). Every

year, ambient air quality is to be monitored for (4 stations * 2 days/week * 4 weeks x 3

seasons) 96 days as per NAAQS 2009.

Operation Phase

An automatic online meteorological station will be installed at the project site, during the

operation phase. Automatic recording for ambient temperature, wind speed and direction,

humidity, atmospheric pressure, rainfall will be carried out at the site. This will be a

permanent monitoring station and will continue throughout the life of the project.

Air Quality monitoring includes ambient air quality monitoring, stack emissions from

existing DG sets of capacity 25 kVA, 125 kVA and 250 kVA equipped with acoustic

enclosure. The numbers and locations of ambient air quality monitoring locations during

operation of project shall be decided in consultation with SPCB. However, four stations

(three stations at nearby villages and one station at project site) are proposed for ambient

air quality monitoring during whole year (except monsoon season).

The frequency of monitoring is twice a week for four consecutive weeks at each station

for each season (except monsoon). The parameters to be monitored are Particulate




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Matter-10 (PM10), Particulate Matter-2.5 (PM2.5), Sulphur dioxide (SO2) and Nitrogen

Oxides (NOx). The monitoring is being carried out as per Central Pollution Control

Board (CPCB) guidelines and in consultation with SPCB, standard procedures like

CPCB/BIS/ASTM/EPA will be followed for sample collection, and analysis by

MOEF&CC/NABL accredited laboratory.

6.4 WATER QUALITY

Construction Phase

It is proposed to monitor the effluent before and after treatment from septic

tanks/Biodigestors. The frequency of monitoring is quarterly. The parameters being

monitored include pH, Bio-chemical Oxygen Demand, Total Suspended Solids and Total

Dissolved Solids. The analysis work will be carried out by a laboratory recognized by the

State Pollution Control Board. Currently monitoring is being done at 6 nos. of locations

for surface water quality for EIA study.

There is a monitoring location each for surface water quality of Rammam River at

upstream and downstream of project. The ground water is also monitored to check any

contamination due to the project. The parameters monitored will be as per IS: 10500-

2012.

Operation Phase

The surface water quality of the Rammam River will be monitored during all the seasons

in a year (winter, pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon). The proposed parameters

to be monitored include pH, temperature, Electrical Conductivity (EC), turbidity, total

dissolved solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Total Hardness, Chlorides, Sulphates, Nitrates,

DO (Dissolved Oxygen), COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand), BOD (Biochemical Oxygen

Demand), Iron, Zinc and Manganese.

The sampling sites will be

- One km upstream of the barrage site

- Water spread area

- One and three km downstream of the confluence of the tail race discharge




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Existing Biodigester of capacity 97 KL with different stages of installation shall treat the

sewage from the township during operation of the project. The analysis of sample, before

and after treatment from the Biodigester shall be done periodically. The parameters to be

analyzed include pH, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Total

Suspended Solids and Total Dissolved Solids.

The ground water will also be monitored to check any contamination due to the operation

of the project. The proposed parameters to be monitored will be as per IS: 10500-2012.

The monitoring shall be carried out for all the seasons’ i.e. winter, summer, monsoon and

post-monsoon for at least 3 locations for ground water, once in every season.

The analysis will be done throughout the life of the project. The analysis work will be

conducted by a reputed laboratory recognized by the State Pollution Control Board and

MOEF&CC.

6.5 NOISE MONITORING

Construction Phase

Noise emissions from vehicular movement, operation of various construction

equipment’s, DG sets is being monitored during construction phase at major construction

sites and nearby villages at six locations. The frequency of monitoring is once in every

six months.

Operation Phase

Ambient Noise monitoring includes monitoring during day time as well as night time.

The monitoring at six locations shall be carried out as per CPCB guidelines and in

consultation with SPCB through MOEF&CC/NABL recognized laboratory using

standard instruments and methodology. The noise monitoring in work zone and at

surrounding villages shall be done once in 6 months.




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6.6 EROSION AND SILTATION

Operation Phase

Soil erosion rate, slope stability of embankments of barrage, efficacy of soil conservation

measures, need to be closely monitored twice a year. The study can be done by an

expertise agency. The study should be undertaken throughout the life of the project so as

to design the soil erosion prevention measures.

In addition to above, soil quality at various locations in the catchment area needs to be

monitored annually. The parameters to be monitored are pH, organic matter, N, P, K and

texture, etc.

6.7 ECOLOGY

Construction Phase

A detailed ecological survey covering forestry, fisheries, wildlife is undertaken during the

entire construction phase and being conducted currently during the EIA Study. The

survey will be conducted once in every three years for the entire construction period. The

various aspects covered include qualitative and quantitative assessment of flora & fauna

and monitoring of restoration of muck disposal area.

Operation Phase

Monitoring of aquatic ecology will be essential to achieve sustainable yield of fish. Some

of the parameters to be monitored are phytoplankton, zooplanktons, benthic life and fish

composition, etc. The parameters will be monitored once in three years at the surface

water sampling sites. Status of greenbelt development, changes in migration patterns of

the aquatic and terrestrial fauna species should also be studied once in three years.

6.8 INCIDENCE OF WATER-RELATED DISEASES

Construction Phase

Identification of water-related diseases, adequacy of local vector control and curative

measures, status of public health are some of the parameters, are monitored with the help

of data maintained in the Government dispensaries/hospitals.




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Implementation: Public Health Department and Dispensary constructed as a part of

Rammam Stage-III hydroelectric project. Regular health check-up of workers and

employees are being carried out as per statutory norms.

Operation Phase

Increased prevalence of various vector borne diseases and adequacy of local vector

control and curative measures need to be monitored. The monitoring will be done once in

two years.

Implementation: Dispensary at the project site

6.9 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME

The summary of Environmental Monitoring Programmes implemented in project

construction and operation phases is given in Tables-6.1 and 6.2 respectively.

Table-6.1

Ongoing Environmental Monitoring Programme during Construction Phase

S. No. Item Parameters Frequency Location 1. Ambient Air

quality PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NO2 Every year for

three seasons At four stations namely Salingdong, Lodhama, Jhepi and Barbatia

2. Effluent from septic tank/ STP/Bio-digestors

pH, BOD, COD, TSS, O&G, Colour, odour, conductivity

Once in quarter

Before and after treatment from septic tank/Bio-digestors, tunnel portal, Crusher & batching plant

3. River water Physicochemical Parameters

Once in quarter

Rammam River at upstream and downstream of project

4. Noise Equivalent noise level (Leq)

Once in six months

At major construction sites, operation of DG sets and nearby villages

5.

Water-related diseases

Identification of water related diseases, adequacy of local vector control and curative measure, etc.as per IS 10500

Twice in a year

Labour camps and colonies




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Table-6.2

Proposed Environmental Monitoring Programme during Operation Phase

S. No. Items Parameters Frequency Location 1. Meteorology Wind speed & Direction,

Temperature, Atmospheric pressure , Rainfall, Humidity

Continues Project site

2. Ambient Air Quality

PM10, PM2.5,SO2 and NOx Every year for each season except monsoon

One station at project site

Three stations at nearby villages

3. Surface Water Physicochemical Parameters (pH, Temperature, EC, Turbidity, Total Dissolved Solids, Calcium, Magnesium, Total Hardness, Chlorides, Sulphates, Nitrates, DO. COD, BOD, Iron, Zinc, Manganese) and Bacteriological Parameters

All the seasons in a year

One km upstream of the barrage/dam site

Water spread area One km downstream

of the confluence of the tail race discharge

4. Waste water from Biodigestor

pH, BOD, COD, TSS, TDS

periodically Before and after treatment from Biodigestor

5. Ground Water As per IS:1500-2012 One every season

3 locations at project site and surrounding villages

6. Noise Equivalent noise level (Leq)

Twice a year

Work zone and at surrounding villages

7. Erosion & Siltation

Soil erosion rates, stability of bank embankment, etc.

Twice a year

-

8. Soil pH, EC, texture, organic matter

Once in a three years

Catchment area

9. Terrestrial Ecology

Status of afforestation programs of green belt development


Green Belt area and project site location

10. Aquatic ecology

Phytoplanktons, zooplanktons, benthic life, fish composition


One km upstream of the barrage site

Water spread area One and three km

downstream of the




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S. No. Items Parameters Frequency Location confluence of the tail race discharge

10. Water-related diseases

Identification of water-related diseases, sites, adequacy of local vector control measures, etc.

Once in a two year

Project Township and surrounding area.

Villages adjacent to project sites

11. Stack

monitoring

As per GSR 771 (E) or as

specified by Consent to

operate issued by State

pollution control board

(SPCB)

Quarterly DG set

12. Socio-economic conditions

Living standards, employment generations, skill development, through social & Need based assessment survey


Project Affected Families (PAFs) and surrounding villages.

6.10 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT GROUP (EMG)

An Environmental Management Group (EMG) consisting of competent workforce

headed by AGM level has been established by the proponent to deal with various

environmental aspects including follow-up with SPCB, Regional office MOEF&CC and

CPCB and to interact with inter-disciplinary groups responsible for maintenance and

operation of pollution control equipment and environmental protection measures. The

group reports to head of the station and responsible for following functions.

Obtaining Consent Order from SPCBs;

Environmental monitoring;

Analysis of environment data, reports preparation and transmission of report

to statutory authorities and Corporate Centre etc.;

Compliance with guidelines and statutory requirements;

Coordination with statutory bodies, functional groups of the station, Corporate

EMG / Engineering etc.;

Interaction for evolving and implementation of modification programs to

improve the availability / efficiency of pollution control devices / systems;




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Environmental Appraisal (Internal) and Environmental Audit; and

Further Environment Management Group at regional level (ER-II HQ) and corporate

level (CC) monitor the environmental performance of the station and provide regular

guidance in consultation with MOEF&CC and CPCB, Delhi. The Environmental

Management Group at regional level reports to Executive Director (Hydro) and at

corporate level reports to Director (Operation).

6.11 COST FOR IMPLEMENTING ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME

The cost required for implementation of Environmental Monitoring programme during

construction phase is Rs. 7.0 lakhs/year. The details are provided in Table-6.3 below

Table-6.3 Cost for Environmental Monitoring Programme during Construction phase

Item Cost (Rs. lakh) Sewage from labour camps 3.00 Ambient air quality monitoring including Noise 2.25 Incidence of water related diseases 1.75 Total 7.00

The cost required for implementation of Environmental Monitoring programme during

operation phase is Rs. 27.0 lakhs. The details are provided in Table-6.4 below

Table-6.4

Cost for Environmental Monitoring Programme during Operation phase

Item Cost (Rs. Lakh/year) Ambient air quality monitoring including Noise 3.00 Water quality and effluent from township 3.70 Ecology 7.10 Riverine fisheries 8.10 Incidence of water related diseases 2.10 Other studies 3.00 Total 27.00

6.12 ENVIRONMENTAL AUDITS AND CORRECTIVE ACTION PLANS

To assess whether the implemented EMP is adequate, the project proponent’s

Environmental division will conduct the periodic environmental audits. These audits will




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followed by Corrective Action and Preventive Action Plan to correct various issues

identified during the audits and to stop the recurrence of the same.

6.13 Submission of Monitoring Reports to Regulatory Authorities (MOEF&CC, CPCB,

WBSPCB & SSPCB)

As per the statutory requirements, the compliance status of Environmental Clearance

stipulations being submitted to Regional office of MOEF&CC in hard and soft copy

every six months. After operation of the project, the conventional pollutants will be

monitored as per schedule and reports will be submitted to SPCB, as per the

requirements.

The project site was inspected by Dr. Tandra Sarkar, Scientist C & Dr. Viplav Chandra

Sarkar, Technical Officer, (Forestry), IRO Kolkatta on 23.03.2021 and 24.03.2021.

Certified Report No: 102-166/07/EPE dated 06.04.2021 from MoEF&CC, Integrated

Regional Office, Kolkata attached as Annexure-XIII.

CHAPTER –VII

ADDITIONAL STUDIES




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CHAPTER-7

ADDITIONAL STUDIES

7.0 ADDITIONAL STUDIES

The following are the list of additional studies considered for the Rammam HEPP Stage-

III (3x40 MW) in Darjeeling District of West Bengal and West Sikkim District of Sikkim.

S.No. Description Source

1. Public Consultation PH conducted in WB on 27.04.2007

and in Sikkim on 04.05.2007.

2. Catchment Area Treatment Plan Earlier EIA prepared by WAPCOS

3. Disaster Management Plan Emergency Action Plan prepared by

National Safety Council, July 2018

NTPC Limited

4. R&R Action Plan Indian Institute of Social Welfare &

Business Management, Kolkata,

NTPC Limited

7.1 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

As per MOEF&CC Notification S.O. 1247(E) dated 18.03.2021, Public Hearing is not

essential for the projects, in which construction have been undertaken more than 50%.

The details of Public Hearing undertaken at the time of original EC West Bengal

Pollution Control Board and State Pollution Control Board, Sikkim are enclosed as

Annexure – XIX and XX respectively.

In order to fulfill the EIA Notification, 2006 and its subsequent amendments, formal

public hearings have been conducted by the West Bengal Pollution Control Board at Dist.

- Darjeeling, West Bengal on 27.04.2007 and by State Pollution Control Board, Sikkim at

West Sikkim, Sikkim on 04.05.2007. The advertisement for the public hearing in West

Bengal was published on 26th March, 2007 in The Statesman, an English daily,

Anandabazar Patrika, a Bengali daily and Dainik Jagaran, a local Hindi daily. The

advertisement for the public hearing in Sikkim was published in one national daily




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“Hindustan Times” (all India editions), “Sikkim Express” (local English daily) and

“Samay Dainik” (Regional Vernacular daily). After completion of the Public Hearings,

the applicant addressed all the environmental concerns expressed during this process and

respective State Pollution Control Boards have submitted the official report on the public

hearing proceedings to Director (Hydro) of MoEF&CC. The Final EIA Report was

submitted by the applicant to the MoEF&CC for appraisal, based on which Ministry of

Environment Forest & Climate Change (MOEF&CC) accorded the Environmental

Clearance (EC) for Rammam HEPP Stage-III (3x40 MW) vide letter No. J-

12011/42/2007-IA.I dated 17.08.2007.

Public Consultation at West Bengal

The Public Hearing of M/s. NTPC Limited was organized by West Bengal Pollution

Control Board (WBPCB) on 27.04.2007 at 11:30 AM at Community Hall/Recreation Hall

at Lodhama Hat, West Bengal State Electricity Board Township, Dist. - Darjeeling, West

Bengal.

The public hearing was presided by Mr. Gen Omdi Phipon, Additional District

Magistrate, Darjeeling. About 156 people attended the Public Hearing (PH). Dr. T.K.

Gupta, Senior Environmental Engineer and In charge – Consent Cell, WBPCB explained

about the provisions of the MoEF notification. Mr. R. Khetarpal, General Manager

explained about the project. Mr. Rajesh K Baderia, DGM (Env. Engg.) briefed the details

of the project through power point presentation, the likely environmental impacts arising

out of the same as well as the proposed pollution abatement/ environmental management/

socio-economic issued considered by them.

The issues raised during the public hearing conducted at Darjeeling, West Bengal given

below:

Issues raised and Response given during Public Hearing at Darjeeling, West Bengal

S.No. Name of

Participant &

Address

Question/comments by

participant

Remarks / Clarification by

Company Representative




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1. Mr. M.K. Singh,

President Bhumi

Brangsha Bekari

Sangha, Rimbik

He raised issues regarding

water scarcity during

construction of the tunnel,

availability of potable

drinking water, greeneries,

health care establishment,

land slides, etc. He has

categorically mentioned that

the project proponent should

take adequate measures to

minimize the landslides

during construction

He explained that the design of the

proposed project is such that

the minimum water discharge would

be allowed in the Rammam River

keeping the sustainable environmental

situation. He also explained that the

proposed project activities are not

likely to affect the water table. To

check the landslides as and when

required, and would adopt modem

technologies to minimize the

same.The community development

work would include strengthening of

educational and health facilities,

widening and strengthening of village

road network, providing potable

drinking water, improving the

sanitation and drainage networks etc.

2. Mr. PremSubba,

Mr. Birkha Rai,

Mr. Jitendra Rai,

Mr. Prakash

Gurung, Mr.

Amar Subba,

Mr. Deng

Phinzo Sherpa

of local areas

They welcomed the project

but mentioned that the project

proponent should take the

necessary measures to

minimize any kind of damage

or loss to the local

environment. The project

proponent to consider for

involvement of the local

people for setting up of such

project the should take

necessary measures for

adequate water supply,

supply of fuel other than

wood, sanitation and

improvement of local road

networks. They have

requested the project

proponent to consider for

improvement of education

He ensured that all the likely damage

of roads, trees etc. during the

construction activities of project

would be restored by NTPC. However,

he also appraised that the technology

proposed to be used for the

construction work would be advanced

and all the measures would be taken to

keep the damage to local environment

at minimum level. He also explained

the NTPC Policy regarding the

employment opportunities to the local

people and highlighted that although

the direct employment opportunities

may not be there but there would be

number of economic opportunities to

the local people viz. Hiring of vehicle,

petty contract, employment with the

contract agencies, allotment of the

shops and kiosks at NTPC township,




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and health facilities at the

local area.

vending contract, STD/ISD booth etc.

3. Mr. Abhijit Roy,

Paschim Banga

Vigyan Mancha

(PBVM),

Siliguri,

Mr. Sankar Kar,

Asst. Secretary,

State

Committee,

PBVM

Mr. Wangel

Sherpa,

President of

Manibhanjan

Zonal

committee of

PBVM

They have mentioned that the

project proponent should

consider the issues like

seepage due to blasting,

drying of agricultural land,

alterative supply of fuel,

construction and repairing of

roads, compensation

packages during resettlement,

deployment of local people in

the job, improvement of

sanitation facilities, water

supply etc.

He gave the emphasis on considering

the various major issues raised by the

local people like local meeting would

be organized at all the major project

affected villages to appraise local

people regarding the R&R benefits.

He also mentioned that NTPC

normally undertake number of welfare

activities in the project affected

villages viz. organizing the health

camps, providing the medical

dispensaries, organizing the cultural

and rural sports events etc. besides

undertaking the community

development work as approved by

Village Development Advisory

Committee (VDAC) formed under the

guidance and leadership of local

administration. The R&R issues will

be settled in consultation with local

and district administration with the

involvement of VDAC.

Additional District Magistrate, Darjeeling emphasized that all possible measures

should be ensured by the project proponent towards the mitigation of all environmental

hazards and various points raised by the public present in the hearing. In general, the

public present in the hearing welcome the project incorporating with all the pollution

control measures proposed by the Project Proponent.

Public Consultation at Sikkim

State Pollution Control Board, Sikkim on, organized the Public Hearing of M/s. NTPC

Limited on 04.05.2007 at Zero Point, Salangdang, West Sikkim, Sikkim.

The Public Hearing (PH) was presided by Shri D.G. Bhutia, Addl. District Collector,

West District, Govt. of Sikkim. About 131 people attended the public hearing. Dr. Gopal




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Pradhan, Senior Scientist, SPCB, Sikkim explained about the provisions of the MoEF

notification. Mr. R. Khetarpal, General Manager explained about the project. This was

followed by brief note on environmental aspects by Dr. V. Prakash, Senior Manager,

Environmental Engineering, NTPC Ltd., the likely environmental impacts arising out of

the same as well as the proposed pollution abatement/ environmental management/ socio-

economic issued considered by them.

The issues raised during the public hearing conducted at West Sikkim, Sikkim given

below:

Issues raised and Response given during Public Hearing at West Sikkim, Sikkim

S.No. Name of

Participant &

Address

Question/comments by

participant

Remarks / Clarification by

Company

Representative/Concerned

person

1. Mr. D.R. Subba,

DFO, Land Use

(West)

Tunneling process may

lead to drying up of the

drinking water resources.

Is there any provision to

protect it

He replied that the technique

used in the process of tunneling

is of latest technology and we

will use minimum amount of

explosives so that water does not

sink down. On top of this, there

will be no tunneling towards

Sikkim.

2. Mr. D.R. Subba,

DFO, Land Use

(West)

There are various types of

fishes found here and if

the dam comes up then the

river may dry up leading

to the extinction of entire

aquatic life. What are the

provisions made by the

Developers to protect this

aquatic life?

He replied that there is no

necessity to worry as we will be

releasing 15% of water whether

we can reach our target or not

3. Mr. D.R. Subba,

DFO, Land Use

(West)

Though a very little

portion of the land will be

acquired by the

He replied that we have not

acquired any land till date. As

the process gets initiated we will




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Developers in Sikkim,

what will be the valuation

of the land?

try to give the best value as per

the norms of the Government of

Sikkim

4. Mr. D.R. Subba,

DFO, Land Use

(West)

What will be the future of

National Park (WB) and

the wildlife sanctuary

(Sikkim) which are

situated at either side of

the river Rammam?

He replied that our project site is

much below the National Park

of West Bengal and wildlife

sanctuary of Sikkim. As such the

project will not have any effect

on these two protected areas.

5. Mr. D.R. Subba,

DFO, Land Use

(West)

What are the major benefit

of the project to the

common people of the

area?

He replied that the direct

benefits to the common people

as the project comes up are:

i. All the materials required by

the Developers can be

supplied through local

registered suppliers

ii. We will invest 0.5% of the

total profit of the

Corporation for the

Development of the project

area

iii. Registered contractors will

get chance in the

construction of the non-

technical work.

On top of this, we will be

supplying 12% of the power to

the State of Sikkim free.

6. Mr. N.R. Chettri,

Rammam,

Salangdang

Is there any provision to

employ the local skilled

and unskilled people of

the affected area in your

project?

Sorry, as our organization is a

Government of India

undertaking so we do not have

such provision to employ any

one directly. If anyone is

interested to join us, they have

to come through proper channel.




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7. Mr. D.R. Subba,

DFO, Land Use

(West)

Is there any provision in

the project to develop the

area into a Tourist spot?

No, we do not have provision

for this. But we shall definitely

put up the green belt around the

project area, which will surely

add much better looks to the

present area.

8. Mr. D.R. Subba,

DFO, Land Use

(West)

The valuation of our land

that is to be acquired by

the Developers should be

good

He replied that we will not

negotiate for the land directly. It

will be through the Department

of Land & Revenue,

Government of Sikkim.

Whatever the Government fixes

we will pay the same.

9. Mr. D.R. Subba,

DFO, Land Use

(West)

There is a possibility of

increase in crime as the

project comes up. What

are the provisions made

by the Developers to have

a control over this?

He replied that why do you

underestimate your police force.

We will surely cooperate in

every aspects of the local

administration to overcome this

problem.

10. Mr. D.R. Subba,

DFO, Land Use

(West)

Is it possible to have

today’s proceeding in

written?

Yes, if any one wants to have

today’s proceeding in written

they can contact the office of the

Member Secretary, State

Pollution Control Board, Deorali

11. Dr. Pushpa Tamang,

Jt. Director, Fishery

Department

What will be the height of

the dam?

We will not be constructing any

dam as it will have great effect

on the environment as such we

will have a barrage only.



Department

It is a well-known fact that

this type of project will

have maximum affect on

the aquatic life. What are

the provisions made by

the developers to

minimize this affect?

It is true. As such, we will be

releasing minimum required

water (1 cumec) to maintain the

aquatic eco system of Rammam

River.




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Department

Will the diversion of

water towards the tunnel

not affect the life of fish

present there?

We will not generate the power

for 24 hrs. We will release

sufficient amount of water to

sustain the aquatic life there in

the river. As such it will not

have adverse effect on migration

of the fishes.



Department

Why the project

developers failed to

consult the Fishery

Institutes for the survey of

fishes of Rammam River?

The survey was carried out by

WAPCOS if necessary we do

not have any problem to hand

over the task of survey to any

one of the Indian Fishery

Institute if it is necessary to do

so.



Department

There has been no

provision made in the

report of the project for

the compensation for the

people whose life depends

on fishing

For this we will discuss with the

Government and bring out the

necessary solution.

16. Mr. B.L. Chettri,

Rammam

What will be the impact of

project on drinking water

supply

As I have already told you that

there will be no negative impact

on the supply of drinking water,

instead the supply will increase

as we have enough fund for the

afforestation and plantation of

trees. I request you all to guide

us at the time of implementing

this programme.

17. Mr. B.L. Chettri,

Rammam

How will the developers

help the Government to

achieve the goal in

making Sikkim Clean and

Green?

There is enough provision for

the plantation and its

maintenance. For the

development of green belt at the

muck disposal sites,

compensatory afforestation and

the catchment area treatment

plan, we have sufficient fund for




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these programmes.

18. Mr. R.N. Sapkota,

Teacher, Salangdang

How will the developers

help to improve the socio-

economy of the common

masss?

Once the project comes up there

will be various opportunities for

the common mass to improve

their life style as there will be

big demand for the daily

requirement of food, dairy

products, vegetables and other

construction materials.


Teacher, Salangdang

Is there any provision for

the scholarship to the local

students, community

library etc.?

Mr. Sapkota, thanks for your

concern to the society. We have

such provisions in the project.

We well work as per the

genuineness of the local NGOs

or the Project Welfare

Committee


Teacher, Salangdang

Our environment is very

clean, as such I request

you to maintain the same

as the project comes up

We have kept enough funds to

maintain the environment. On

top of this, we will have an

Environmental Laboratory and

an Environmental Management

Cell.

21. Mr. M.C. Gautam

ACF/Soreng

What will be the length of

the project?

I am sorry to say that we cannot

predict the length of the project

but would like to inform you

that in India the project does not

die out so soon.

22. Mr. M.C. Gautam

ACF/Soreng

What will be the status of

rehabilitation programme?

Rehabilitation Programme of

NTPC Ltd. is one of the best in

India and we started this

programme much before the

Government of India did.

23. Mr. Bharat Chettri,

Salangdang

Rammam River is the

only source for the

irrigation and we are

We shall discuss the matter with

the area MLA and the

Government and do the needful.




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afraid that if the project

comes up we will have

much problem for the

same. As such we would

like to request you to

kindly release little more

water


Salangdang


the compensation of the

damage that the developer

causes?

Yes, we have the provision in

Resettlement and Rehabilitation

Action Plan.


Salangdang


the boating facility in the

dam area as one of the

tourist points?

No, sorry we do not have such

provision, as we are not

constructing a big reservoir. It

will be a simple barrage where

the depth of the water will be

very small.


Salangdang

Will the developer provide

us the facility in the field

of Education, Health and

other social activities?

Yes, we will help you in every

possible was as it is clearly

stated in Resettlement and

Rehabilitation Action Plan


Salangdang

What is the process for the

compensation of the land?

We will deal as per the

guidelines of the State

Government

28. Mr. Rajiv Roka

BDO/Daramdin

Drying up of the

Rammam River may lead

to economic problem as

the river is the only source

for the irrigation. So can

the developer release

some more water?

We will discuss the matter with

the Government and the area

MLA for the same. Thanks for

the information.

29. Mr. Rajiv Roka

BDO/Daramdin

As the project are coming

up in our area, I would

like to request you for the

long-term employment

opportunity for the local

educated youths

Sorry sir, we do not employ any

one directly. Anyone interested

should come up through proper

channel. But we will be

providing enough opportunity

through contract, allotment of




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shops/ PCOs, Vehicle hiring etc.

30. Mr. Robin Rai, NGO

Member/Salangdang

As per the local protection

act we too should be given

employment opportunities

Sorry Mr. Rai, it is not possible

but we will be providing you the

opportunities in various fields

indirectly

31. Mr. Suk Bir Subba,

Salangdang

The time that we got is

very little to discuss all the

subjects I request you to

hold the public hearing

again

We had published the public

notice in one daily National

newspaper (Hindustan Times),

Nepali local paper (Samay

Dainik) and one English daily

local paper (Sikkim Express).

On top of this, we had put up a

number of banners at different

places of project-affected areas

for your information. We regret

to know that this could not

attract your attention.

The whole proceeding came to the conclusion with wrap up speech by Shri S.Z.

Lucksom, Member Secretary, SPCB. He concluded his speech by declaring that, as per

today’s proceedings all the people present wanted project to come up with a reservation

that maximum water is to be released and every effort to be made to protect the

environment of the area.

7.2 CATCHMENT AREA TREATMENT PLAN

A Catchment area Treatment Plan for the catchment area intercepted at the diversion

structure of the barrage site has been prepared as a part of the Comprehensive EIA study.

Catchment characteristics in terms of physiography, geomorphology, climate, land use,

soil, denudation processes and conservational activities gained much importance to find

out stress areas yielding higher sediments on micro-watershed basis. This entire process is

called as Prioritization of Micro-watersheds into very high, high, medium, low, etc.

sediment yielding categories for presenting a watershed development plan. For this

purpose, Sediment Yield Index Model developed by Soil and Land Use, Survey of India,




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Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India was utilized in the preparation of CAT plan for the

Rammam HEPP, Stage-III.

The CAT plan is being implemented through State Forest Department as a deposit work

of respective states of West Bengal & Sikkim. NTPC has deposited Rs. 7.23 Crores in

favor of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, West Bengal as part of proposal for

implementation of CAT Plan for Rammam Stage-III project. NTPC has deposited Rs.

1.459 Crores in favor of PCCF cum Principal Secretary, Govt. of Sikkim as part of

proposal for implementation of CAT Plan for Rammam Stage-III project. Fund utilization

for Sikkim portion during 2009 & 2010 furnished by DFO, LU & E (West), Forest, Envi.

& WL Management Department, Govt. of Sikkim has already been forwarded to

MoEF&CC, Shillong vide NHL/RammamIII/11-12/01 dated 9th May 2011. Fund

utilization report for WB part is still awaited.

7.2.1 Need for Catchment Area Treatment

It is a well-established fact that reservoirs formed by dams on rivers are subjected to

sedimentation. The process of sedimentation embodies the sequential processes of

erosion, entrainment, transportation, deposition and compaction of sediment. The study of

erosion and sediment yield from catchments is of utmost importance as the deposition of

sediment in reservoir reduces its capacity, and thus affecting the water availability for the

designated use. The eroded sediment from catchment when deposited on streambeds and

banks causes braiding of river reach. The removal of top fertile soil from catchment

adversely affects the agricultural production. Thus, a well-designed Catchment Area

Treatment (CAT) Plan is essential to ameliorate the above-mentioned adverse process of

soil erosion.

Soil erosion may be defined as the detachment and transportation of soil. Water is the

major agent responsible for this erosion. In many locations, winds, glaciers, etc. also

cause soil erosion. In a hilly catchment area, as in the present case, erosion due to water is

a common phenomenon and the same has been studied as a part of the CAT Plan.




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The CAT plan highlights the management techniques to control erosion in the catchment

area of a water resource project. The life span of a reservoir is greatly reduced due to

erosion in the catchment area. Adequate preventive measures are thus needed for the

treatment of catchment for its stabilization against future erosion. The directly draining

catchment area of 5273 ha, has been considered in the present study. The sub-watershed

in the catchment area considered for the present study is given in Fig-7.1.

Fig 7.1 Directly Draining Catchment Area




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The catchment area treatment involves

Understanding of the erosion characteristics of the terrain and

Suggesting remedial measures to reduce the erosion rate

In the present study `Silt Yield Index’ (SYI), method has been used. In this method, the

terrain is subdivided into various watersheds and the erodibility is determined on relative

basis. SYI provides a comparative erodibility criteria of catchment (low, moderate, high,

etc.) and do not provide the absolute silt yield. SYI method is widely used mainly because

of the fact that it is easy to use and has lesser data requirement. Moreover, it can be

applied to larger areas like sub-watersheds, etc.

7.2.2 Objectives of Catchment Area Treatment Plan

The broad objectives for preparation of Catchment Area Treatment Plan are outlined as

under:

i. Checking soil erosion and land degradation by taking up adequate and effective

soil conservation measures, both engineering as well as biological, in erosion prone

areas.

ii. Rehabilitation of degraded forest areas through afforestation and facilitating natural

regeneration.

iii. Rehabilitation of degraded slopes and landslide prone area.

7.2.3 Approach for the Study

A detailed database on natural resources, terrain conditions, soil type of the catchment

area, socio-economic status, etc. is a pre-requisite to prepare treatment plan keeping in

view the concept of sustainable development. Various thematic maps have been used in

preparation of the CAT plan. Due to the spatial variability of site parameters such as soils,

topography, land use and rainfall, not all areas contribute equally to the erosion problem.

Several techniques like manual overlay of spatially index-mapped data have been used to

estimate soil erosion in complex landscapes.




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Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computerized resource data base system,

which is referenced to some geographic coordinate system. In the present study, real

coordinate system has been used. The GIS is a tool to store, analyze and display various

spatial data. In addition, GIS, because of its special hardware and software characteristics,

has a capacity to perform numerous functions and operations on the various spatial data

layers residing in the database. GIS provides the capability to analyze large amounts of

data in relation to a set of established criteria. In order to ensure that latest and accurate

data is used for the analysis, satellite data has been used for deriving land use data.

Ground truth studies, too, have been conducted.

The various steps, covered in the study, are as follows:

Data acquisition

Data preparation

Output presentation

The above mentioned steps are briefly described in the following paragraphs:

7.2.3.1 Data Acquisition

The requirement of the study was first defined and the outputs expected were noted. The

various data layers of the catchment area used for the study are as follows:

Slope map

Soil map

Land use classification map

Current Management Practices

Catchment Area map

7.2.3.2 Data Preparation

The data available from various sources was collected. The ground maps, contour

information, etc. were scanned, digitized and registered as per the requirement. Data was

prepared depending on the level of accuracy required and any corrections required were

made. All the layers were geo-referenced and brought to a common scale (real co-




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ordinates), so that overlay could be performed. A computer program was used to estimate

the soil loss. The formats of outputs from each layer were firmed up to match the formats

of inputs in the program. The grid size to be used was also decided to match the level of

accuracy required, the data availability and the software and time limitations. The format

of output was finalized. Ground truthing and data collection was also included in the

procedure.

For the present study, IRS 1C-LISS III digital satellite data was used for interpretation &

classification. The classified land use map of the catchment area, considered for the

study, is shown as Fig 7.2.




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Fig-7.2 Land use classification of the catchment area

Digitized contours from topo-sheets were used for preparation of Digital Elevation Model

(DEM) of the catchment area and to prepare a slope map. The first step in generation of

slope map is to create surface using the elevation values stored in the form of contours or

points. After marking the catchment area, all the contours on the topo-sheet were

digitized (100 m interval). The output of the digitization procedure was the contours as




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well as points contours in form of x, y & z points. (x, y - location and z - their elevation).

All this information was in real world co-ordinates (latitude, longitude and height in

meters above sea level).

A DTM of the area was then prepared, which was used to derive a slope map. The slope

was divided in classes of slope percentages. The slope map is enclosed as Figure 7.3.

Various layers, thus prepared, were used for modeling. Software was prepared to

calculate the soil loss using input from all the layers.

7.2.3.3 Output Presentation

The result of the modeling was interpreted in pictorial form to identify the areas with high

soil erosion rates. The primary and secondary data collected as a part of the field studies

were used as an input for the model. The land use pattern of the directly draining

catchment is summarized in Table 7.1.

Table-7.1

Land use pattern of the catchment area

S.No. Category Area (ha) Percentage 1. Dense vegetation 1911.46 36.25 2. Open vegetation 2419.25 45.88 3. Agriculture 515.17 9.77 4. Barren land 311.11 5.90 5. Water bodies 49.57 0.94 6. Settlement 66.44 1.27 Total 5273 100.0




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Fig 7.3 Slope map of directly draining catchment area




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7.2.4 Estimation of soil loss using Silt Yield Index (SYI) method

The Silt Yield Index Model (SYI), considering sedimentation as product of erosivity,

erodibility and aerial extent was conceptualized in the All India Soil and Land Use

Survey (AISLUS) as early as 1969 and has been in operational use since then to meet the

requirements of prioritization of smaller hydrologic units.

The erosivity determinants are the climatic factors and soil and land attributes that have

direct or reciprocal bearing on the unit of the detached soil material. The relationship can

be expressed as:

Soil erosivity = f (Climate, physiography, slope, soil parameters, land use/land cover, soil

management)

Silt Yield Index

The Silt Yield Index (SYI) is defined as the Yield per unit area and SYI value for

hydrologic unit is obtained by taking the weighted arithmetic mean over the entire area of

the hydrologic unit by using suitable empirical equation.

Prioritization of Watersheds/Sub-watersheds

The prioritization of smaller hydrologic units within the vast catchments is based on the

Silt Yield Indices (SYI) of the smaller units. The boundary values or range of SYI values

for different priority categories are arrived at by studying the frequency distribution of

SYI values and locating the suitable breaking points. The watersheds/ sub-watersheds are

subsequently rated into various categories corresponding to their respective SYI values.

The application of SYI model for prioritization of sub-watersheds in the catchment areas

involves the evaluation of:

a) Climatic factors comprising total precipitation, its frequency and intensity,

b) Geo-morphic factors comprising land forms, physiography, slope and drainage

characteristics,

c) Surface cover factors governing the flow hydraulics and

d) Management factors




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The data on climatic factors can be obtained for different locations in the catchment area

from the meteorological stations whereas the field investigations are required for

estimating the other attributes.

The various steps involved in the application of model are:

Preparation of a framework of sub-watersheds through systematic delineation

Rapid reconnaissance surveys on 1:50,000 scale leading to the generation of a

map indicating erosion-intensity mapping units.

Assignment of weightage values to various mapping units based on relative silt-

yield potential.

Computing Silt Yield Index for individual watersheds/sub-watersheds.

Grading of watersheds/sub-watersheds into very high, high, medium, low and

very low priority categories.

The area of each of the mapping units is computed and silt yield indices of individual

sub-watersheds are calculated using the following equations:

a. Silt Yield Index

SYI = (Ai x Wi ) x 100 ; where i = 1 to n Aw

where, Ai = Area of ith unit (EIMU) Wi = Weightage value of ith mapping unit n = No. of mapping units Aw = Total area of sub-watershed.

The SYI values for classification of various categories of erosion intensity rates are given

in Table-7.2.

Table-7.2

Criteria for erosion intensity rate

Priority categories SYI Values Very high > 1300 High 1200-1299 Medium 1100-1199 Low 1000-1099 Very Low <1000




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7.2.5 Watershed Management – Available Techniques

Watershed management is the optimal use of soil and water resources within a given

geographical area so as to enable sustainable production. It implies changes in land use,

vegetative cover, and other structural and non-structural action that are taken in a

watershed to achieve specific watershed management objectives. The overall objectives

of watershed management programme are to:

- Increase infiltration into soil;

- Control excessive runoff;

- Manage & utilize runoff for useful purpose.

Following Engineering and Biological measures have been suggested for the catchment

area treatment:

1. Engineering measures

- Step drain

- Angle iron barbed wire fencing

- Stone masonry

- Check dams

2. Biological measures

- Development of nurseries

- Plantation/afforestation

- Pasture development

- Social forestry

The basis of site selection for different biological and engineering treatment measures

under CAT are given in Table-7.3.

Table-7.3

Basis for selection of catchment area treatment measures

Treatment measure Basis for selection

Social forestry, fuel wood and

fodder grass development

Near settlements to control tree felling

Contour Bunding Control of soil erosion from agricultural fields.

Pasture Development Open canopy, barren land, degraded surface




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Treatment measure Basis for selection

Afforestation Open canopy, degraded surface, high soil erosion,

gentle to moderate slope

Barbed wire fencing In the vicinity of afforestation work to protect it from

grazing etc.

Step drain To check soil erosion in small streams, steps with

concrete base are prepared in sloppy area where silt

erosion in the stream and bank erosion is high due to

turbidity of current.

Nursery Centrally located points for better supervision of

proposed afforestation, minimize cost of transportation

of seedling and ensure better survival.

7.2.6 Catchment Area Treatment Measures

The catchment area considered for CAT Plan is 5273 ha. The erosion category of various

watershed in the catchment area as per a SYI index are given in Tables-7.4 and 7.5

respectively and details are shown in Figure 7.4.

Table-7.4

Erosion intensity categorization as per SYI classification

Watershed number Area (ha) SYI values Category W1 638 1143 Medium W2 715 1151 Medium W3 926 1230 High W4 834 1256 High W5 695 1159 Medium W6 1009 1249 High W7 456 1276 High

Total 5273

Table-7.5

Area under various erosion categories

Sl. No. Category Area (ha) Percentage 1. Very Low - - 2. Low - - 3. Medium 2048 38.84 4. High 3225 61.16 5. Very High - Total 5273 100




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Fig 7.4 Prioritization of directly draining catchment area




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The objective of the SYI method is to prioritize sub-watershed in a catchment area for

treatment. The area under very high and high erosion categories is to be treated at the

project proponent cost. In the directly draining catchment of the project, there is no area

under very high erosion category. Hence, CAT plan has been suggested for high erosion

category, as a part of the present EIA study, the expenses of which have to be borne by

project proponents. The area under high erosion category is 3225 ha, which is about

61.16% of the catchment area considered for treatment.

7.2.7 COST ESTIMATE

The cost required for Catchment Area Treatment is Rs.32.08 million. The details of area

to be treated given in Figure 7.5 and costing provided in Tables 7.6 and 7.7. The year

wise physical and financial targets are given in Table-7.8.

Table-7.6

Cost for Catchment Area Treatment - Biological Measures

S.No. Item Rate

(Rs.)

Target

Physical Financial (Rs. million)

1. Afforestation

1600 trees/ha

61,000 41.5 ha 2.53

2. Plantation (800 trees/ha) 31,000/ha 286 ha 8.87

3. Pasture Development 15,000/ha 70 ha 1.05

4. Social forestry 30,000/ha 50 ha 1.50

5. Fuel wood and fodder

grass

20,000/ha 50 ha 1.00

6. Nursery development 300,000/no. 4 1.20

7. Maintenance of nursery 1,00,000/no 4 0.40

8. Barbed wire fencing 100,000/km 5 km 0.50

9. Watch and ward for 3

years for 8 persons

5000/man-month 240

man months

1.20

Total 18.20




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Fig 7.5 Catchment area treatment measures




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Table-7.7

Cost for Catchment Area Treatment - Engineering Measures

Sl. No.

Item Rate (Rs.) Unit Qty (No.)

Target Physical Financial (Rs. million)

1. Step drain 2500 RMT 25 RMT 10 250 RMT 0.63 2. Check dams 200,000 - 22 22 4.40 3. Contour

bunding 25,000/ha ha 177 177 4.43

Total 9.46

Total cost for Catchment Area Treatment

Rs. (Million)

Total cost for Biological and Engineering

measures

27.66 (A)

Administrative expenditure

Government Expenditure 3% of A

(including O&M)

0.83

Establishment cost 8% of A 2.21

Contingency 5% of A 1.38

Total 32.08

Table-7.8

Year wise target (physical and financial) for Catchment Area Treatment Plan

Treatment measure

Year-I Year-II Year-III Total Phy. Fin. Phy. Fin. Phy. Fin. Phy. Fin.

Afforestation (80 trees/ha)

41.5 ha 2.53 - - - - 41.5 2.53

Gap plantation (800 trees/ha)

100 ha 3.10 100 ha 3.10 86 ha 2.67 286 ha 8.87

Pasture Development

70 ha 1.05 - - - - 70 ha 1.05

Social Forestry 30 ha 0.90 20 ha 0.60 - - 50 ha 1.50 Fuel wood and fodder grass

30 ha 0.60 20 ha 0.40 - - 50 ha 1.00

Nursery development

4 No. 1.20 - - - - 4 No. 1.20

Maintenance of Nursery

- - - 0.20 - 0.20 - 0.40

Barbed wire fencing

3 km 0.30 2 km 0.20 - - 5 km

0.50

Watch and ward 80 man 0.40 80 man 0.40 80 man 0.40 120 man 1.20




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Treatment measure

Year-I Year-II Year-III Total Phy. Fin. Phy. Fin. Phy. Fin. Phy. Fin.

months months months months Step Drain 150 m 0.38 100 m 0.25 - - 250 m 0.63

Check dam 12 No. 2.40 10 No. 2.00 - - 22 No. 4.40

Contour bunding 100 ha 2.50 77 ha 1.93 - 177 ha 4.43

Total 15.36 9.03 3.27 27.66

Note: Financial targets are in Rs. million

Till date, NTPC has deposited Rs. 7.23 Crores in favor of Principal Chief Conservator of

Forests, West Bengal and Rs. 1.459 Crores in favor of PCCF cum Principal Secretary,

Govt. of Sikkim as part of proposal for implementation of CAT Plan for Rammam Stage-

III project.

7.3 DISASTER MANAGEMENT PLAN

This plan has been prepared as an emergency preparedness measure to protect the life of

the employees and others present on-site, that of the public in the vicinity of the project,

company property and environment. The plan defines roles & responsibilities of persons

at different levels in the event of emergency in the sites of the company.

7.3.1 Purpose of the Plan

i. Basic purpose of this plan is to develop, implement and maintain an integrated

emergency management system for protection of people, property and the

environment in the event of on-site emergency as well as off-site emergency caused.

ii. Ultimate goal is to reduce vulnerability of the project area due to emergency situation

to save lives and protect property by developing capabilities that mitigate effects of,

prepare for, respond to and recover from emergency situation that could affect the

project area.

7.3.2 Scope of the Plan

This Disaster Management Plan/Emergency Action Plan covers technological

emergencies arising out of construction accidents and covers the following:




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i. Geographical Coverage: The scope of the Plan is targeted to existing construction

project activities at the sites/facilities at following locations

a. Barrage across River Rammam (tributary of River Rangit), Intake structure, De-

silting basin

b. Head-Race Tunnel (HRT) with Surge shaft and the adit

c. Pressure shaft/Penstock

d. Power House

e. Surface Switchyard covering location

f. Tail-Race Tunnel (TRT) with outlet structure

g. Access tunnels and approach adits

The general layout of the project showing location of above activities is shown in Fig 7.6

and Barrage Complex and Power House complex layout shown in Fig 7.7 & 7.8

respectively.

ii. Emergency Scenarios: Emergency scenarios arising out of existing project status

and that anticipated in the immediate future expressed by the company management

personnel and those of the concerned agencies and the project risks as envisaged with

mutual thinking of the company and agency managements.

7.3.3 Hazardous Chemicals On-site & their Normal Inventories

The plant handles some hazardous chemicals as daily requirements and bulk storages.

Their normal inventory at different sites is given in Table 7.9

Table-7.9

Hazardous Chemicals and their normal inventory at different sites

S.No. Location Chemical Normal Inventory

1 Magazine house 1 near Barrage Site

Nitrate mixture Class 2, division 0 2450 kg

2 Magazine house 2 near Barrage Site

Nitrate mixture Class 2, division 0 2500 kg

3 Magazine house near TRC Nitrate mixture Class 2, division 0 1100 kg 4 Store at fabrication yard at

Barrage site Light Diesel Oil 1200 L




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Fig 7.6 Layout of Project Site




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Fig 7.7 Barrage Complex – Layout Plan

Fig 7.8 Power House – Layout Plan




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7.3.4 Emergencies Scenarios

The emergency scenarios are classified into 3 categories:

A. Natural calamities

i. Flood

ii. Landslide

iii. Earthquake

B. Man-made disaster

i. Fire

ii. Explosion

iii. Fire and Explosion

C. Security related disasters

i. Terrorist / Bomb threat attack

ii. Sabotage

Flood

Flood can occur due to

Heavy rain fall

Cloud burst to the upstream of the barrage area

More and sudden water released from TRC of the stage-II power project

Heavy debris falling into the river channel and form a water reservoir and due to

heavy rain the reservoir can break & emergency can occur along the river

Landslide

Compounded by the heavy rainfall and Geo-morphologic habits the landslides of major

and minor scale keep occurring every year during monsoon. Following areas are

susceptible to landslides

a) Water conductor systems

b) Surface Power House site

CIMFR (Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research) has been engaged by both the

Major Civil Contractors for design of blast pattern and monitoring of tunneling works.

Geological Survey of India (GSI), is also associated with NTPC, Rammam, vide MoU




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dated 8th Feb’ 2015, for supervision and advice on tunneling/ road construction and/or

any other vulnerable area of construction.

Earthquake

Darjeeling District, comprising of vast mountain terrain is vulnerable to landslide and

earthquake being situated at the fault line of Eurasian and Gondwana plates. The project

falls in Zone IV (Severe intensity zone) of Earthquake vulnerability map. Seismologists

have predicted the earthquake of major magnitude may occur at any moment and

therefore all precautions are required to be taken prior to earthquake.

Seismic study has been conducted by IIT Roorkee. The suggested Earth Quake (EQ)

design parameters have been cleared from National Committee of Seismic Design

Parameters (NCSDP) of CWC and are being adopted for design of the project

components.

Apart from some of the counter measures to be taken in foreseeable cases, emergency

recovery plans shall be considered by the emergency management team as per the

situation and site conditions

a) Structural failure

b) Collapse of structures inside the tunnels/adits

c) General alignment

Fire and Explosion

Following are areas where fire or explosion may take place due to improper maintenance

or mishandling

a) Switchyard area

b) Transformer and switchgear room area

c) Storages of explosives




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Terrorist / Bomb threat attack

Terrorism is the deadliest from of emergency/disaster in terms of loss of life and damage

to property. Project sites could not be ruled out of the possibility of terrorism as these

sites are vital nation assets. The terrorist-related aspects could be dealt with by making

use of advancement of the technology in the areas of surveillance and proper intelligence

network.

Following are the vulnerable areas where the terrorists can strike

a) Explosives Storages

b) Barrage

c) Power House

d) Tunnels

e) Offices

7.3.5 Factors to control Emergency

i. Reporting of Incident

ii. Key Persons

iii. Emergency Management Teams

iv. Responsibilities

v. Emergency Communication Organization

vi. Emergency Control Center (ECC)

vii. Declaration of Emergency

viii. Termination of Emergency

ix. Siren System

x. Communication System

xi. Role of Employees after declaration of Emergency

xii. Resources on-site

xiii. Assembly Points




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Reporting of Incident

Any person (employee of NTPC or contracting agency or Security) who sees the incident

shall inform/report to the ECC through the nearest office (NTPC, contracting agency/any

security point) through telephone/mobile or by shouting.

Key Persons

Following positions & names of key persons are included

1. Chief Incident Controller (CIC)

2. Works Incident Controller (WIC)

3. Site Incident Controller (SIC)

Project Manager of the site contracting agency assumes the role of IC in case of any

emergency. For silent hours (night time or on holidays) the senior security person will

handle the emergency with the help of other security personnel till arrival of the seniors.

Emergency Management Teams and Responsibilities

The list of emergency management teams-manning and responsibilities of various

emergency teams viz. Chief Incident Controller (CIC), Works Incident Controller (WIC),

Site Incident Controller (SIC), Resource Manager, Fire Team etc. enclosed as Annexure

- XXI




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Emergency Communication Organization

Fig 7.9 Emergency Communication Organization

Emergency Control Center (ECC)

The Emergency Control Center is the focal point in case of an emergency from where the

operations to handle the emergency are directed / co-ordinated by the Works Incident

Controller (WIC) under the guidance of Chief Incident Controller (CIC). The entire

project site is divided into 2 major sites




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i. Barrage and HRT

ii. Power House and its parts

Hence, from the viewpoint of convenience and to effectively handle the emergency each

of the two major sites should function from either of 2 separate ECCs – Main and

alternate

Locations

Barrage and HRT

Main ECC: NTPC, Sajbote

Alternate ECC: NTPC Porta cabin at Adit 1

Power House and Part HRT

Main ECC: NTPC, Sajbote

Alternate ECC: NTPC Porta cabin near SEW Work Shop

Contents of the ECC

Main ECC is a place normally manned 24x7 basis e.g. Security Office. A board

displaying “Emergency Control Center” / “Emergency Control Center - Alternate”

Display of Telephone/Mobile numbers of key persons working on-site

Display of Telephone/Mobile numbers of selected key government officials

A copy of Emergency Action Plan

Land-line telephone instrument for receiving calls only

A booklet of blank ‘Incident Information Summary’ sheets

Site Map showing:

o Storage area of hazardous materials

o Storage of safety equipment’s

o Firefighting system and additional source of water

o Site entrance, roadway and emergency exits

o Assembly points

o Truck parking area

o Surrounding location




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Area map showing sensitive areas such as hospitals & nursing homes,

laboratories, offices of key government officials, schools

Black / white board

Intercom

Mobile Phone / walky-talky

Selected PPE storage

Meeting Room with chairs only

TV and Radio sets

Record Book

Desktop computer containing required data and printer

Note Book, Pad and Pencil/pen

Manning

At least one person should man ECC round the clock during peace time who can receive

and record information. During an emergency, it should be manned by the emergency

management staff, including the highest-ranking personnel in-charge of the whole

operation.

Declaration and Termination of Emergency

The WIC is authorized to declare and terminate the emergency. The sequence is given

below:

After receiving information about an incident, SIC would rush to incident site

immediately

SIC, if found beyond his control, informs the ECC attendant, who in turn informs

all concerned key persons

CIC & WIC would then rush to ECC

CIC then contacts other key persons on-site, establishes communication set up

with WIC & SIC to know more about the situation

After communication with WIC/SIC if it is beyond the control, CIC would give

clearance to Security to declare Emergency




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The CIC contacts WIC & WIC then contacts SIC to know more about the incident

The Engineering Services Team approaches the incident site to attend emergency

Other plant In-charges occupy their offices to receive instructions from CIC

Other teams carry out their respective functions

CIC is in continuous interaction with the WIC & SIC and other senior persons in

each site

SIC in consultation with the other team leaders updates CIC & WIC

After handling emergency situation successfully i.e. after cessation of emergency,

WIC would declare termination of emergency in consultation with the CIC

Siren System

Declaration of emergency: Wailing sound for 30 seconds, break for 30 seconds

repeated 3 times

Termination of Emergency: All Clear Signal will be a continuous siren for 2

minutes repeated twice.

Apart from sounding siren, emergency message shall be communicated to all the

workers over Public Address system in and around the emergency site in Hindi,

English & Local language.

Communication Systems

Landline telephones

All key personnel are provided with land-line telephones at office as well as at their

residences. Landline telephones are also provided at selected locations in the project areas

Wireless communication

CUG Mobile Phones – Close User Group (CUG) mobile phones are also provided

to all key personnel and site personnel

Walky-Talky – Legalized Walky-Talky connections are provided to key personnel

at sites




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Role of Contracting Agencies & Employees after declaration of Emergency

Role of Contracting Agencies after declaration of Emergency

The contracting agencies have their own on-site Emergency Management Plan. The

Contracting agencies implement their plan after declaration of emergency. General

guidelines they should follow as given below:

On getting the information of declaration of emergency on the site, the Project Managers

of Associates shall immediately report at site and shall act as per their emergency plan

Ensure that the immediate response is provided to protect health and safety of

persons in the immediate area

Appoint responsible persons to account for their agency’s personnel and report to

the Work Incident Controller of the site

Appoint emergency rescue team to locate the missing persons

Ensure that their personnel are housed in a secure place, till further instructions

from WIC

Provide to their trained personnel and equipment for respective emergency actions

Any other responsibility as assigned by CIC/WIC/SIC

Role of Employees after declaration of Emergency

After hearing the emergency siren / message, all the employees including workers of

associates shall stay on their worksites. Those employees who are required to help in

handling the emergency either for responding to emergency directly or support the

emergency actions as per this emergency action plan or that of the agency should act

accordingly.

Those employees who are not required to handle the emergency either directly or as

support, should wait for instructions from their superiors to gather at designated

Assembly Points.




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Resources on-site (Own and those of Contracting Agencies)

i. Fire Equipment

The following fire equipment are available with NTPC at Rammam site:

— Fire Tender: 1 no

— Water mist and CAF high pressure backpack fire extinguishers: 2 nos.

ii. Portable Fire Extinguishers

The location wise list of portable fire extinguishers given in Table 7.10

Table 7.10

Location-wise list of Portable Fire Extinguishers

S.No. Location DCP Type (ABC Type 6 kg)

CO2 Type (4.5 kg)

Fire bucket

A Power House Site 1 SEW Store 2 2 2 2 Fabrication Yard 1 3 DG Panel (Camp) 1 4 TRC DG Panel 2 1 1 5 Workshop 1 1 6 Batching Plant 1 7 Crusher Plant 1 8 Main Store 1 1 4 9 Magazine House 2 2 10 NTPC Porta Cabin 2 2 B Adit III portal 2 C Adit III DG set 1 D Surge Shaft 1 E Barrage Site 1 DG set 2 2 Batching Plant 1 3 Fabrication Yard 2 4 Magazine House 1 2 1 2 5 Magazine House 2 2 1 2 6 NTPC Porta Cabin 1 F Adit 1 Site 1 Store 1 1 2 Transformer Yard 2 3 Workshop 1 4 Tunnel DC 1 1 1 5 Tunnel DC 2 1 1 6 Tunnel GOC 1




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7 NTPC Porta cabin 1 1 G Adit 2 Site 2 H NTPC Administrative Office 12 2

iii. The No. of Trained Emergency responders, emergency equipment, vehicles

transporting people and ambulance facilities enclosed as Annexure-XXI

Assembly Points

A. At Barrage Site

Assembly Point No. 1 – Adjacent to NTPC Porta Cabin

B. At HRT/Adit 1 Site

Assembly Point No. 2 – Opposite to FQA Lab

C. Adit-2 Site

Assembly Point No. 3 – Adjacent to Adit-2 entrance

D. At Surge Shaft Site

Assembly Point No. 4 – At the entrance of surge shaft

E. At Pressure Shaft Site

Assembly Point No. 5 – at entrance to pressure shaft site

F. At Power House Site

Assembly Point No. 6 – Adjacent to Power House near TRC

G. Adit-3 Site

Assembly Point No. 7 – Adjacent to Adit-3 entrance




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7.3.6 Emergency Organization

Fig 7.10 Emergency Organization Chart

7.3.7 Response Functions

i. Emergency in Tunnels

ii. Fire-fighting

iii. Rescue

iv. First-aid & Medical Response

v. Security & Traffic Control

vi. Communication

vii. Evacuation

Emergencies in the tunnels can arise from

a) Fire inside the Tunnel (Ignition of inflammable gases & explosives)

b) Tunnel Collapse or Failure of Works resulting in persons been trapped

c) Sudden release of toxic and inflammable gases

d) Sudden flooding (Inrush from above/from underground water source)




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Fire at other construction sites

Fire would be extinguished with the help of own resources of trained firemen, available

portable fire extinguishers, Fire equipment. However, if it is beyond own capabilities,

help from nearby city fire brigade/mutual aid partners would be taken.

Treatment and Evacuation of injured person

1. A minor injury is one that causes no immediate danger to the life of the person who

has suffered the injury; the injury party is conscious and is capable of walking

unaided or with the support of a fellow worker. In general, cuts, bruises and minor

burns are classified as minor injuries. Injured shall be escorted to First Aid Room,

treatment be given worker should rest and returns to work when feeling better.

2. After treatment at the First Aid Room, if the First Aider thinks more treatment is

required e.g. stitches to a deep cut or a check-up after any head injury, or worker

complains of feeling ill or dizzy, then the First Aider arranges transport for the

injured party to be taken to the Company Doctor.

7.4 R&R ACTION PLAN

The most important deleterious impact during construction phase is, pertaining to land

acquisition. Socio-economic survey for the Project Affected Families (PAFs) was

conducted. Numbers of families lost their land were compensated as per NTPC R&R

Policy. One time settlement for R&R package to affected PAPs has been agreed during

VDAC meeting as per R&R policy. Total of Rs. 3.58 Crores disbursed as per R&R policy

till 31.03.2021.

VDAC (Village Development Advisory committee) for monitoring R&R activities have

been constituted by DM of concerned districts which include representatives of Project

Affected Persons.




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7.4.1 Details of Land acquired

For Rammam Stage-III HEP, a total of approximately 178.286 acres of land has been

acquired from Karmi, Kankebong and Rimbik Mouza under Bijanbari Block of

Darjeeling District and Siktam, Salandong and Zhum Mouza under West Sikkim District.

The analysis of state/district wise land acquired for Rammam Stage-III HEP indicates that

majority of land i.e. 90.67% acquired is from West Bengal/Darjeeling District and

remaining 9.33% of the land is acquired from Sikkim/West Sikkim District. The area

under Bijanbari Block is approx. 165 acres (66.777 ha), which is insignificant as

compared to total geographical area of the Block. Similarly, the area under Daramdin

Block is approx. 18 acres (7.3 Ha), which is insignificant as compared to total

geographical area of the Block.

The mouza wise area of land acquired for Rammam Stage-III HEP is presented in Table

7.11. It is evident from the table that the maximum area i.e. 116.504 acres was acquired

from Karmimouza followed by Kankibong (46.054 acres) in Darjeeling District. It may

be pertinent to mention here that from Rimbik Mouza only 2.442 acre of Government

land, which is presently under the possession of West Bengal State Electricity Board, is

acquired. Whereas in Geyzing/West Sikkim District, the maximum land acquired from

Salangdong followed by Zhum is 12.07 acres and 5.57 acres respectively.

Table-7.11

Detail of Type of Land Acquired For Rammam Stage-III HEPP

Sl No Mouza Government Land (in acre)

Forest Land (in acre)

Private Land (in acre)

Total (in acre)

Darjeeling District, West Bengal 1 Karmi 17.795 - 98.709 116.504 2 Kankibong 11.46 - 34.594 46.054 3 Rimbik 2.442 - - 2.442

Sub-Total 31.697 - 133.303 165 Geyzing/West Sikkim District, Sikkim

4 Salangdong 0.523 - 12.364 12.07 5 Siktam - - 0.39 0.39 6 Zhum - 4.761 - 5.5775

Sub-Total 0.523 4.761 12.754 18.038

Grand Total 32.22 4.761 146.057 183.047




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The analysis of type of land acquired for Rammam Stage-III HEP reveals that out of total

land for Rammam Stage-III HEP nearly 80% is private land and remaining 17.6% is

Government land. Whereas, forest land is less than 3% only.

The component wise requirement of the land for Rammam Stage-III HEP is presented in

Table 7.12. The analysis reveals that the maximum area required for approach road to

barrage, power house, pen stock/surge shaft and township i.e. more than 30% of total land

is acquired. The land requirement for power house and barrage accounts for nearly 10%

each of total land. The muck disposal area requiring significant amount of land i.e. nearly

15% of total land was also acquired.

Table-7.12

Component Wise Detail of Land acquired for Rammam Stage-III HEPP

S. No. Components Area (ha) %

1 Barrage 8.50 11.47 2 Approach Roads 36.10 48.73 3 Tail Race Channel 8.130 10.97 4 Pen Stock and Surge Shaft 3.815 5.15 5 Power House 1.971 2.66 6 Township 8.903 12.0 7 Muck Disposal 6.661 8.99

Grand Total 74.076 100.00

7.4.2 Resettlement & Rehabilitation

The NTPC Limited has acquired approximately 66.777 Ha of land at Darjeeling District

and approximately 7.3 Ha at West Sikkim for Rammam Stage-III Hydro Electric Project

(HEP), out of which nearly 80% is private land and remaining only 20% is Government

land including the forestland. Acquiring these stretches of hilly agricultural as well as

homestead land for its project is likely to affect/displace number of people. Accordingly,

as per the R&R Policy of NTPC as well as Government of West Bengal and Sikkim,

NTPC initiated measures to resettle and rehabilitate Project Affected Persons (PAPs) with

the objective that the PAPs will improve or at least regain their previous standard of

living.




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The Rehabilitation Action Plan (RAP) is formulated so that after a reasonable transition

period, the displaced/affected persons improve, or at least regain their previous standard

of living, earning capacity and production levels. The transition gap also is to be

reduced to a minimum.

7.4.3 Basis of R&R Action Plan

The R&R strategies have been worked out keeping in view the socio-economic status of

the PAPs and Impoverishment Risk Assessment of the PAPs. The existing infrastructure

of Pulbazar Bijanbari and Darmadin Blocks were given due consideration while

formulating the community development programme for Project Affected Villages. The

formulation of income restoration schemes for potential PAPs were in line with the

various on-going rural development and poverty alleviation programmes of the

Government.

The Resettlement & Rehabilitation Action Plan for the Project Affected Persons has been

prepared on the basis of the following criteria:

a) Concentration of PAPs in the village/Gram Panchayat for the location of target area;

b) Socio-economic status of the PAPs i.e. vulnerable groups, occupation, educational

status, income, etc. for the identification of the target group;

c) The Impoverishment Risk Assessment (IRA) and Quality of Life (QoL) of PAPs have

been used to prioritize the target group and area;

d) Existing infrastructure of the area, developmental plans of the district, specially the

affected Blocks.

Based on the above, R&R strategies (resettlement measures, rehabilitation measures

viz., jobs, self-employment, skill development, etc. and development of

infrastructure) have been evolved for the various target groups of the PAPs of

Rammam Stage-III HEP.

7.4.4 Process of Formulation of R&R Action Plan

The entire process of formulation of the Resettlement & Rehabilitation Action Plan

(RAP) was in consultation with the PAPs. For this purpose, qualitative research




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techniques were employed which included focus group discussions, in-depth interviews

and participatory planning. The core team members with the help of Research Assistants

having relevant experience carried out most of these tasks. For successful employment of

qualitative research techniques, the following standard forms were used as recording

tools:

i. Village profile

ii. Discussion guidelines with

a. Knowledgeable persons and community leaders

b. Field level officials

c. NGOs

Participatory mapping and group discussions were carried out with the potential PAPs

along with Officials of Government of West Bengal & Government of Sikkim to identify

suitable rehabilitation measures, recording their options, preferences and suggestions for

formulation of effective RAP for PAPs of Rammam Stage-III HEP. The discussions in

the field were documented and analyzed.

7.4.5 Social Assessment & Project Design

Major efforts have been made to reduce the potential direct negative impacts of the

project on both social and biophysical environment. Social and environmental concerns

were considered carefully in project preparation and along with more conventional,

technical and economic considerations were influential factors in the design process.

These efforts have ranged from slight shifts of the plant boundary to avoid houses,

religious structures and other common property resources. They include attention to

social, environmental and safety measures to protect villagers. Environmental concerns

such as avoiding cutting down trees were also coordinated with this process.

The specific measures taken to minimize displacement during the design of the layout

plan for the Rammam Stage-III HEP included:




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As it is a Run of River (RoR) Project, thus the reservoir have been designed for

storage of water only for two hours at the full load, keeping in view to minimize the

submergence area as well as displacement.

Only optimum quantity of land is being acquired for barrage, surge shaft, penstock,

powerhouse, township and other utility services.

As far as possible the land area required for the project were identified excluding

the houses falling within the proposed area for the project.

After completion of the initial layout of the project, the number of structures likely

to be affected was calculated by physical verification with the help of mouza maps.

Where large numbers of people were likely to be displaced, the project boundary

and road alignments were redefined to minimize the displacement.

A detailed study was carried out to determine/assess the prominent locations of

tribal groups within the study area. The plant layout in these areas was undertaken

to ensure that the proposed works do not affect the tribal communities.

Besides minimizing the amount of R&R required, these measures also minimized the loss

of public utilities and cultural properties such as schools, roads, grazing land,

gumpha/church, burial ground etc.

The sections that follow briefly present:

Key features of the design context and the social factors that were considered for

minimization of resettlement;

The social development approach and objectives;

The process by which the social features have been incorporated into design;

Results of collaboration between social assessment and project design and outcome

of efforts to reduce impacts and minimize displacement.

Project Design Context

Project design occurs in multileveled context in which focus and emphasis shift over the

project preparation period. Design inputs include economic, technical/engineering,

environmental and social, particularly R&R, displacement and land acquisition




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considerations. At the macro level, the project is based on the feasibility studies prepared

on the basis of economic, social and environmental factors and conditions. This includes

preliminary design inputs. At the next level, preliminary engineering designs relating to

the plant layout, location of reservoir, township, alignment of Head Race Tunnel (HRT),

surge shaft/penstock, etc. were addressed. At the micro level, area-specific issues were

taken into considerations, e.g. a shift in layout to avoid demolishing of houses,

commercial structures, religious and other common property resources.

Social factors and assessment findings, including insights gained from consultations,

played an important role within the design context at each of these levels. Efforts to

minimize displacement and to avoid, reduce or mitigate rehabilitation requiring, other

social impacts were concentrated at the meso-and micro-level of project design, and

detailed engineering aspects of this design context and the associated opportunities for

minimizing adverse project impacts they presented are outlined below.

Project Layout

Using the available records with the Revenue Department, the R&R team of Rammam

Stage-III HEP verified the boundaries of project area. This information, entered in mouza

maps, was jointly verified and certified by the project investigators, NTPC and the

Revenue Department.

The objective of R&R contributions to project design was to ensure that the area of

impact was modulated, within acceptable design principles and standards, to minimize

displacement and other project impacts.

Design Pen Stock/Surge Shaft and Road Corridor of Impact

The Surge Shaft/Pen Stock and Road corridor of impact in rural area mainly restricted to

acquisition of agricultural land, vested land and other government lands. The effort has

been made to minimize the impact of land acquisition for access roads.

Mitigation Measures

While finalizing the plant layout including the corridor pen stock, surge shaft and roads,

etc., minimization of adverse environmental and social impacts including displacement




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were major criteria. This practice will continue throughout the project preparation period.

The prime mitigation efforts and principles applied in project designs are described in the

subsequent sections.

Principles of Mitigation

Mitigation measures largely focused on settlement areas within the project area. The basic

social impact mitigation principles that guided designs were:

Minimal impact on residential and commercial structures thus minimizing

resettlement and loss of livelihood;

Religious structures to be maintained as far as possible;

Minimum loss of other common property resources viz., roads, graveyards,

orchards, grazing lands, etc.

The preservation of old and ethnic trees.

Mitigation Efforts

Mitigation efforts included the following:

Avoiding unnecessary displacement by modifying project layout of the plant and

reducing the width of the corridor of impact for pen stock, surge shaft, road, etc.

Reducing impacts on existing common property resources viz., roads, educational

institutions, religious structures etc.;

Providing access to businesses and residential units that would be otherwise impacted

by construction; and

Minimizing losses of public property, such as natural water sources, resting places,

orchards etc. within the project area.

7.4.6 R&R Basic Approach

NTPC Limited revised Resettlement & Rehabilitation Policy (June, 2005) on the basis its

experiences as well as in view of National Resettlement & Rehabilitation Policy of

Government of India (February, 2004). This R&R Policy describes the principles and

approach to be followed in minimizing and mitigating negative social and economic

impacts caused by the Thermal Power Project. This policy has been implemented within




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the framework of Government of West Bengal & Sikkim R&R policy and other local

applicable laws. The salient features of the NTPC’s R&R policy are discussed in

subsequent sections.

Improper resettlement and rehabilitation is the root of discontentment and alienation

of the PAPs. It may be difficult to operate a project efficiently without the

cooperation of the local people.

The land acquisition and consequent displacement disrupts the traditional social

system. The changes in the land use pattern alter the agro-based rural economy and

affect the life style of the people. This calls for a concentrated effort to provide

means to ensure sustainable livelihood of these PAPs, considering them as

stakeholders.

The Rehabilitation Action Plan (RAP) is formulated so that after a reasonable

transition period, the affected families improve, or at least regain their previous

standard of living, earning capacity and production levels.

NTPC has taken all actions in accordance with the RAP, preparation of

Implementation Completion Report (ICR) and evaluation of activities post

completion.

7.4.7 R&R Entitlement Matrix

The compensation and rehabilitation assistance has been provided as per the following

matrix:




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Categories of PAPs Resettlement & Rehabilitation

Entitlements

a) PAPs whose entire land has been acquired

b) PAPs losing partial land and becoming

marginal farmer (Left with unirrigated

land holding upto 1 ha or irrigated holding

upto half ha)

c) PAPs losing partial land and becoming

marginal farmer (Left with unirrigated

land holding upto 2 ha or irrigated holding

upto 1 ha)

d) PAPs losing partial land but not covered

with either category ‘B’ or ‘C’

e) Agricultural laborer PAPs

f) Non-agricultural laborer PAPs

g) PAPs losing partial lands in case of

narrow stretch of land being acquired

h) PAPs of STs in possession of forest land

i) PAPs who are homestead oustees

LFL or RG equivalent of MAW of 1000

days or compensation to cover replacement

value of land + Subsistence Grant.

LFL or RG equivalent of MAW of 750 days

or compensation to cover replacement value

of land + Subsistence Grant.







RG equivalent of MAW of 750 days + SG.

RG equivalent of MAW of 750 days + SG.


+ SG.

As per category ‘A’ to ‘F’ + additional

benefits.

Self resettlement grant or plot of 200 sq m at

RC + SFG + RG.

PAP – Project Affected Persons

LFL – Land for Land

RG – Rehabilitation Grant

SG – Subsistence Grant

MAW – Minimum Agricultural Wage




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7.4.8 Rehabilitation Measures

To rehabilitate the PAPs losing their land following measures were adopted:

Land for Land (LFL)

The “Land for Land” option is applicable to only land losers (i.e. category ‘A’ to ‘D’).

Quantum of land for rehabilitation is as per the actual land acquired, subject to the ceiling

of maximum of 1 ha of irrigated land or 2 ha of unirrigated/cultivable wasteland subject

to availability of Government land in the districts. If Government land is not available,

PAPs has been facilitated for purchase of land on a “willing buyer-willing seller” basis.

For this purpose, the following process has been adopted:

Land price for the purpose of purchase of land was fixed after consultation with the

State Government and the VDAC on the basis of market price of the good

agricultural land in the vicinity generally within 25 km radius but normally not

exceeding the 1.3 times of the rate paid for the acquisition of good agricultural land

as per the LA Act.

The basic land compensation amount paid (i.e. excluding solatium and interest) has

been adjusted against land price fixed as above.

In addition, land development amount @ Rs. 10,000/- per acre as per entitlement

(based on process CPI as on 01.06.2004 and subject to revision from time to time)

and actual land registration and stamp duty charges as per entitlement has been paid

to those, who actually purchase the land and submit the required papers.

The PAPs losing less than 1 acre of land, purchase land upto 1 acre out of the grants

and compensation money they have been reimbursed the actual stamp duty and

registration charges of upto 1 acre.

In case of PAPs who are landless but are dependent only on the acquired land for

livelihood (Category ‘E’ & ‘F’), also buy land through the grants provided to them,

NTPC considered incentivizing their purchase by reimbursing actual stamp duty and

registration charges for upto 1 acre of purchase of land.




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In situation, where the LFL option is not feasible because of scarcity of land, they were

eligible for Rehabilitation Grant (RG).

Rehabilitation Grant (RG)

One time RG was paid to eligible categories (i.e. A to G). If a category ‘A’ PAP does not

wish to go for LFL option, he/she had paid one time RG equivalent to 1000 days

Minimum Agricultural Wage (MAW) in the concerned State/UT at the time of Section 4

notification under LA Act. For the categories B to F, the RG is equivalent to 750 days

MAW. For the category ‘G’, a one-time RG equivalent to 500 MAW is payable with no

other additional rehabilitation benefit. For the Category ‘H’, the RG is vary depending

upon the type PAP as per Category ‘A’ to ‘G’. An illustrative amount will be as follows:

S No Category Amount (Rs.)

1

2

3

‘A’

‘B’ to ‘F’

‘G’

70,000/-

52,500/-

35,000/-

In case of non-feasibility of land for land option due to local constraints, the RG however,

could be suitably fixed on per acre of land loss basis for Category ‘A’ to ‘D’ subject to a

maximum of 5 acres in consultation with the stakeholders, to cover replacement value of

land not normally exceeding 1.3 times the basic compensation of good agricultural land

or the values in terms of MAW for these categories whichever is higher.

In case of rehabilitation of any rural artisan/small trader and a self employed person

(Category ‘F’) who is having a shop in the affected area, a one time financial assistance

of Rs. 15,000/- (based on CPI index as on 01.06.2004 subject to upward revision) was

provided in addition to RG for construction of working shed/shop, in case he continues

with his earlier vocation.




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Subsistence Grant (SG)

Each PAP was provided with a monthly SG equivalent to 20 days of MAW per month for

a period of 1 year up to 250 days of MAW, starting from the date of

relocation/displacement and physically handing over of the acquired land.

If a PAP falls in more than one category of ‘A’ to ‘G’, he/she was entitled for only of the

rehabilitation package. For the category ‘H’, the package will vary depending upon the

type of PAP as per Category ‘A’ to ‘G’.

Additional Rehabilitation Benefits

Economic Opportunities: The economic opportunities include preference to PAPs in

following area:

Employment with contracting agencies

Allotment of shops/kiosks

Award of petty contracts

Vehicle hiring

PCO/Internet Kiosk

Newspaper vending

Vendor permit

Courier service, etc.

The PAPs would be entitled for only one additional economic opportunity subjected to

availability.

Capacity Building: Capacity building efforts was made for PAPs or their family

member. In order to make them self-reliant, skill up gradation through various training

schemes at training institute of NTPC/State Government would be undertaken.

Depending upon the need, as discussed in VDAC scholarship and/or reimbursement of

tuition fees, to not more than one member of each PAP family to promote education and

technical training.

Incentive for Adopting Small Family: Onetime incentive was granted to the PAPs (who

are between the age 35 and 50 year and have at least one child) if they undergo for family




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planning operation within six to twenty four months period of acceptance of R&R

package.

Other Welfare Activities: In addition to above, activities was undertaken for socio-

economic upliftment of affected population. This may include special efforts for

education of girl child, rural sports, medical camps, subsidized treatment at NTPC project

hospital, cultural programmes, rural insurance scheme etc. These activities were finalized

in consultation of VDAC.

Special Efforts for Vulnerable PAPs: Special efforts for welfare measures was made

for SC/ST, Physically Challenged, Women Headed Household, Aged, etc. These also

include special vocational training programmes, priority in engagement for suitable jobs

and facilities, free/enhanced subsidized medical treatment, etc.

7.4.9 Resettlement Measures

Self-resettlement: PAPs of Category ‘I’ willing to resettle on their own or shift to some

alternate location was encouraged for self-resettlement. Financial assistance for self-

resettlement has provided generally at the rate of 5 times of the basic compensation

payable for the house, excluding solatium and interest, under the Land Acquisition Act

subject to a minimum of Rs. 50,000/- and a maximum of Rs. 1,00,000/- in each case

(based on CPI index as on 01.06.2004 subject to upward revision). No other benefit like

allotment of plot in RC, infrastructure at place of resettlement etc. was extended in case

of individual self-resettlement.

7.4.10 Additional Resettlement Benefits:

Shifting Grant: NTPC has bear the actual cost of transportation of the building materials

and other moveable properties including self, family members, cattle etc. belonging to the

PAPs from the place of displacement to resettlement colony or in the place of

resettlement generally within 25 km of accessible roads in any transport arranged by

NTPC. Alternatively, a lumpsum grant of Rs. 20,000/- (based on CPI index as on

01.06.2004 subject to upward revision) has been paid to each HSO for self-




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transporting/shifting. This is inclusive of transportation of man, material, reusable goods,

wood, cattle etc. if any.

Resettlement Grant: A fixed resettlement grant of Rs. 30,000/- (based on CPI index as on

01.06.2004 subject to upward revision) was provided to each HSO. This is inclusive of

Rs. 5,000/- towards assistance for construction of cattle shed, if any.

7.4.11 Socio-economic Profile of PAPs

The Socio-economic Impact Assessment Study was conducted by Indian Institute of

Social Welfare and Business Management, Kolkata in 2007.

Project Affected Persons

The category wise detail of PAPs as per NTPC R&R policy (June, 2005) is presented in

Table-7.13. The analysis reveals that out of total 220 PAPs, nearly 72% PAPs lost only

part of their agricultural land and approximately 15% lost their dwelling units as well as

agricultural lands. Whereas only around 13% PAPs lost their homestead.

Table-7.13

Category Wise Detail of PAPs as Per NTPC R&R Policy

S No Category Description No of PAPs

1 A PAPs whose entire land has been acquired 20

2 B PAPs losing partial land and becoming marginal farmer

(left with unirrigated land holding upto one Ha or irrigated

holding upto half Ha)

13

3 C PAPs losing partial land and becoming small farmer (left

with unirrigated land holding upto two Ha or irrigated holding

upto 1 Ha)

35

4 D PAPs losing partial land but not covered in either category

B or C 268

5 E Agricultural labourer PAP -

6 F Non-agricultural labourer PAP -

7 G PAPs losing partial lands in case of projects/schemes wherein

only a narrow stretch of land extending several kilometers is

being acquired.

-

8 H Occupiers i.e. PAPs of STs in possession of forest land since -




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25th Oct 1980

9 I PAPs who are Homestead Oustees (HSO):

Number of PAPs losing land & house* – 61

Number of PAPs losing only house – 11

Total Number of Homestead Oustees – 72

Total 336

* HSO which are losing agricultural land as well as house have been already included in the category A

to D depending on their area of land acquired.

The analysis of village/hamlet wise concentration of PAPs reveals that out of total PAPs

of Rammam III HEP i.e. 220, the maximum PAPs are from Karmi village (Sajbotey and

Nezi Hamlet) i.e. 63.63% followed by Kankebang (Upper & Lower Sumbuck, Muzum,

Majhigaon, Gurdum), which account for 29.09% of total PAPs respectively. Whereas,

village Salandong accounts for minimium number of PAPs i.e. 7.27%.

The analysis of sex wise distribution of PAPs reveals that nearly 92% are male PAPs and

remaining 8% are female PAPs.

7.4.12 Community Development Measures

The community development work has been undertaken in the project affected villages.

These facilities are available to the host population and the neighboring community

besides the PAPs and facilitate socio-economic development of the area. The

facilities/amenities include following:

Internal and approach WBM road with proper drainage

Drinking water facilities

Community Hall/Panchayat Ghar

Primary School Infrastructure

Medical Clinic

Plantation

Rural Electrification

Irrigation facilities, etc.

The infrastructural facilities is set up by NTPC on the basis of assurance from the State

Government that it will take over the infrastructural facilities and maintain it properly.




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The following community development work has been completed by Rammam HEPP

Stage-III.

1. Construction of 2 nos school buildings(NEZI,SUMBUK) completed.

2. Construction of school building in progress(Sajbotey)

3. Drinking water scheme under construction(1.NEZI,SAJBOTEY 2.Sumbuk)

4. Road construction from Khoprai to Nezi(1.5 km)completed

5. Road construction from Power house to Khoprai(5.8km)under construction,in

final stage.

6. 2 nos Ambulance handed over to District Administration,Darjeeling

7. Medical equipments of Rs2.5 lacs handed over to Jorethang Health Centre.

8. Footpath in Nezi 800m completed.

7.4.13 Implementation Mechanism for One Time Rehabilitation Package

After receiving the land compensation from District Authority the PAP have got the

certification of land compensation payment stating no dues are pending with land revenue

department of concerned District and same had submitting to Rammam Stage-III HEP

R&R Cell for calculation of one time rehabilitation package due to him/her. On receipt of

clearance certificate from PAPs, R&R Cell of Rammam Stage-III HEP calculate the one

time rehabilitation package payable to him/her and get his/her acceptance for the

calculated amount to be paid to him/her. Mean while the PAP had open a joint account in

the bank. The account was in the name of PAP & his/her spouse. In case of unmarried or

widow/widower, the PAP open the account in his/her own name. The opening of bank

accounts had facilitated by NTPC.

One time settlement for R&R package to affected PAPs has been agreed during VDAC

meeting as per R&R policy. Total of Rs. 3.58 Crores disbursed as per R&R policy till

31.03.2021.

7.4.14 Cost Incurred

The estimated budget for the RAP comprises the following prime area of compensation:




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a) Acquisition of land for various components of Rammam Stage-III HEP including area

under barrage, power house, surge-shaft and other approach roads;

b) Rehabilitation & Resettlement Packages for PAPs/HSOs;

c) Relocation/Replacement of CPR viz. primary schools, construction of road,

graveyards, resting places, water reservoir, etc.;

d) Plantation of trees;

e) Training programme for self-employment and skill development for income

generating activities;

f) Community Development Programmes and other welfare activities;

g) Implementation Measures.

The R&R Policy (June, 2005) of NTPC provide the guidelines for R&R measures to be

taken for restoring the socio-economic status of PAPs/HSOs and undertaking community

development work in project affected village/hamlets for improving quality of life. On the

basis of SIA study conducted by IISWBM and interactions with PAPs as well as other

stakeholders through VDAC, PIC, and Village level focus group discussions, the R&R

measures to be taken for Rammam Stage-III HEP have been identified and presented in

Table 7.14. The budget for the same has been worked out keeping in view the guidelines

of NTPC R&R Policy.

The actual expenditure incurred by NTPC Ltd. on R&R is provided in Table 7.15. It

supplies and justifies a cost-wise, item-wise, budget estimate for implementation of

resettlement and rehabilitation schemes, including assistance, administrative expenses,

monitoring & evaluation and contingencies.

Table-7.14

R&R Measures Identified to be undertaken for Rammam Stage-III HEP

S No Description of R&R Activities REHABILITATION MEASURES:

1 One time Rehabilitation Package (this includes rehabilitation and subsistence grant, etc.)

2 Skill Development & Training and Scholarships for PAPs or their nominated family member.




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S No Description of R&R Activities RESETTLEMENT MEASURES:

3 One time Self-Resettlement Package (this includes self resettlement, shifting grant and resettlement grant, etc )

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & OTHER MEASURES: 4 Education Facilities:

a. Infrastructure Development for Schools b. Educational Cost (Furniture, Lab Equipment, Books, Stationery, etc.)

5 Health Facilities: a. Health Clinics b. General Health/Surgical/Eye Camps c. Family Planning d. Medicine &Equipments, etc. e. Mobile Clinic/Ambulance f. Veterinary Clinics

6 Village Sports & Cultural Programme: a. Sport kits/training & coaching/ rural sport events, etc. b. Cultural Programme

7 Welfare Measures for Physically Challenged & Other Vulnerable People: a. Movement Aid/Hearing Aid, etc. b. Self-employment Assistance viz. cattle for income generation, sewing machine, training/educational aid, etc.

8 Infrastructure Development Work: a. Community Centers b. Village Road & Culverts c. Drainage d. Sewerage & Toilets e. Drinking Water system f. Public Library g. Plantation under social forestry g. Infrastructure Development for Rural Electrification and Solar Systems h. Need Based Miscellaneous Rural Community Development Work (Smokeless

Chulhas, Low Cost Toilets & Soak Pits, Water Harvesting System, etc) IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES:

9 PAPs Verification & Issue of ID Card and Signing of Agreement with each PAPs/HSOs

10 Engagement of Institute/NGOs for Supervision of Implementation of RAP 11 Monitoring & Evaluation of Implementation of RAP

The cost of resettlement has been included in the overall costs of the project. Values for

compensation amounts and other support mechanisms will be adjusted, if required,




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annually based on inflation factors. The budget incorporates provisions for this, and

mechanisms for budgetary adjustments and updates are included.

Table-7.15

Summary of Actual Expenditure incurred on RAP for Rammam Stage-III HEP

S. No. Descriptions

Actual Expenditure (Rs. Lakh) incurred

31.03.2021

REHABILITATION MEASURES:

1 One time Rehabilitation Package 357.49

2 Skill Development & Training and Scholarships 1.46

Sub-total 358.59

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & OTHER MEASURES:

3 Educational Facilities 59.1

4 Health Facilities 287.29

5 Village Sports & Cultural Programme 15.44

6 Infrastructure Development Work 367.66

Sub-total 729.49

IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES:

7 Miscellaneous Expenses 68.71

Grand Total 798.20

7.5 POWER POTENTIAL STUDY

The power potential studies have been carried out for Rammam-III Hydroelectric

Scheme, situated on the river Rammam in West Bengal State of India. This is a run-of-

the-river type development and would operate on variable head of water. A copy of

Power Potential Study is enclosed as Annexure-XXII.

CHAPTER –VIII

PROJECT BENEFITS




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CHAPTER-8

PROJECT BENEFITS

8.0 GENERAL

The implementation of the Rammam Hydro Electric Power Project (HEPP) Stage-III

will provide impetus to the development of the area and also provide green energy i.e.

hydro-electric power. The project will also throw opportunities to local people for

both direct and indirect employment. The other indirect benefits of a hydropower

project over thermal one are reduction in air pollution, water pollution, noise

pollution, thermal, fly-ash and health effects in and around the area.

The advantage of not having a large amount of water storage is that less land has to be

flooded and therefore the potential environmental footprint impacts are reduced.

Construction of Barrage will also bridge both banks with road connectivity

The project will bring social development and prosperity in area

The project provides indirect employment to the local population in

construction phase and will provide the same in operation phase as well

The CD/CSR has helped and will help in the development of the required

facilities for the general public of the area

The availability of the electricity will be highly beneficial for the cost effective

industrial activities which will bring further prosperity in the area

8.1 BENEFITS TO ECONOMY

Development of infrastructure and availability of reliable power supply as a result of

the project realization would contribute to the stimulation of economic activities like

small scale industries in the area. Additional power generation will mitigate the power

shortage in the West Bengal and Sikkim state. Some of the local people may get

permanent job during the operational phase of the project depending on their skill and

performance. The project will act as stimulant to improve the economy both at the

local and National levels.

8.2 SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

The area possesses moderate level of infrastructural facilities. The township being

constructed near Barbatia village shall be permanent residence for the project. About




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100 number of employees, support staff and CIEF Staff will be residing at site during

operation phase of the project. NTPC has developed bachelor and office

accommodation and other non-residential buildings for staff of NTPC, CISF, Support

Staff, etc. are under different stages of construction.

In addition to the rightful compensation and R & R package for the project affected

families, the project authorities will undertake a plan of infrastructural development in

the area for enhancing the quality of life for the entire human population of the project

affected area. Several such facilities would be created for the benefit and use of

general public. The project authorities have already initiated the social infrastructure

development activities in the project area under Corporate Social Responsibility

(CSR).

8.2.1 R&R Benefits

Socio-Economic survey for the Project Affected Families (PAFs) was conducted.

Number of families lost their land were compensated as per NTPC R&R Policy.

Details of PAFs of Rammam Project:

West Bengal: 6 villages (Darjeeling District)

Mouza Karmi: 3 villages (Sajbotay, Nezi and Kolbong)

Mouza Kankebong: 3 villages (Sumbuk, Lower Jhepi and Majhigaon)

Sikkim: 3 villages namely Chumbong, Salangdong & Siktam

Total provision for Land including R&R and CD activities is Rs. 59.20 Crore, out of

which total expenditure/ commitment for expenditure (as on date) is Rs. 45.20 Crore.

The cost provision for R&R and CD activities is Rs. 19.03 Crore.

8.2.2 CSR/CER Activities

As per MOEF&CC Office memorandum dated 30.09.2020, the project proponent to

commit to carryout proposed activites under Corporate Environmental Responsibility

(CER). In NTPC community development activites are carried out at nearby villages

before operation of project under capital expenditure of project. The similar welfare

and development activites has been proposed under CER by MOEF&CC. Various




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CER/CSR-CD activities undertaken in and around the project area are as given in

Table No. 8.1.

Table No. 8.1

CER/CSR-CD Activities undertaken in and around the Project Area

Health Upgradation of local PHC with equipments and infrastructure Partnership with Govt. for National Health Programmes like Polio, TB, Malaria etc. Health Camps for family planning and communicable diseases Subsidized treatment in company hospitals/Dispensory Specific programmes to improve health indicators e.g. fertility rates, mortality rate, nutrition levels of children and vulnerable Specific Programmes for hygiene and sanitation

Education Targeted programmes for primary education specially for girl child Augmentation of infrastructure and equipments, furniture, blackboard, toilets etc. in village schools Scholarship to meritorious students Adult education Partnerships in state sponsored education programmes

Physically Challenged

Helping aids to each category of physically challenged as per requirement Health Camps

Water Supply Provision of potable drinking water supply in nearby villages through wells, hand pumps, tankers etc. Awareness campaigns for water borne diseases, sanitation and hygiene

Capacity Building

Setting up new ITI with necessary infrastructure and machinery Sponsorship of old PAPs/wards Short term courses for skill up gradation Vocational training (dairy, poultry, bee keeping, sericulture) Specific Programmes for Ladies (stitching, embroidery, tailoring etc.)

Infrastructure Development

Construction of roads, drainage, community halls, school buildings, health centers, street lighting, equipments to educational institutions, public utilities, sanitation facilities, Health centers etc. in nearby and affected area

Sports and Culture

Regular Rural Sports Facilitation/ Sponsorship to local talent Promotion of local festivals




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Table: 8.2

Details of Expenses of CSR-CD/CER Activities

S.No. Head Approved

Budget

(in Lac)

Booked

till date

(in

Lac)

Balance

(in Lac)

Expenditure Incurred (in Lacs)

A. CD Works FY

15-

16

FY

16-17

FY

17-18

FY

18-19

FY

19-20

FY

20-21

Total

1 Educational Facility 110.00 110.00 0.00 0.54 2.21 1.87 21.25 11.70 21.53 59.10

2 Health and medical

services

450.00 422.00 28.00 5.93 2.94 0.00 91.35 67.85 119.22 287.29

3 Providing other

infrastructure facility

90.00 31.00 73.00 0.00 2.09 0.17 3.28 3.86 2.76 12.16

4 Training/Self

Employment/Skill

Development

15.00 0.36 14.64 0.00 0.00 0.33 0.00 0.00 1.13 1.46

5 Construction of

Roads and Drains

450.00 426.00 24.00 0.00 0.00 1.15 72.88 206.63 0.00 280.66

6 Sponsoring Local

Sports/Cultural

Programme

30.00 10.80 19.20 1.19 2.19 1.81 1.76 3.67 4.82 15.44

7 Providing Drinking

Water Facility

110.00 94.00 16.00 0.00 30.38 0.00 22.68 0.00 21.78 74.84

8 Future Misc CD

Works Provision

75.00 0.00 75.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 17.23 17.23

9 Disaster Mitigation 70.00 69.10 0.90 0.00 11.16 9.50 0.00 26.56 21.49 68.71

1400.00 1149.26 250.74 7.66 50.97 14.83 213.20 320.27 209.96 816.89

The proposed CER/CD activities budget for 2021-2024 is given in Table 8.3.

Table 8.3

Proposed CER/CD Activities for 2021-2024

S.No. Acitivity Proposed Budget

(Rs. In Lakhs)

1. Education Facility 200

2. Health and medical services 200

3. Providing other infrastructure facility 120

4. Training/Self employment/Skill development 180

5. Providing Drinking water facility 100

6. Sponsirong local sports/Cultural programme 150

Total 950




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8.3 EMPLOYMENT POTENTIAL

The project is already benefitting the people living in the neighboring villages by

giving preference to them in relation to indirect employment associated with the

various project activities. The first preference is given to people whose land is

acquired and to their relatives. The estimated no. of employees during operation phase

of the project is estimated to be about 50. Considering the staff of CISF and support

services, it is estimated that about 100 families will reside in the project township

during operation stage. However, during construction stage, the number of workers

are about 1000.

Besides generating local employment for skilled and non-skilled labourer, the project

authorities is also providing an opportunity for the local people to compete for various

project work related contracts depending on their economic status. In addition to

above, capacity building and skill development programmes are being organised for

local youth to encourge for self employment.

Vocational Training Programme for Beautician

Skill Development for Women

Distribution of Sewing Machines for self employement

Vocational Trainig Programme for Electrician




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Providing Two ambulance to Rural Hospital Health Check-up Camp

Contruction of Primary School Building Distribution of School Baga and water

bottles to children

8.4 CO2 EMISSIONS

Hydropower is a clean, renewable, and environmentally friendly source of energy. As

an important renewable energy resource, hydropower contributes significantly to the

avoidance of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and to the mitigation of global

warming. The largest sources of GHG emissions for hydropower are the construction

of the facilities, and biomass decomposition from reservoir flooding. In addition, there

are ongoing net differences between the carbon uptake and respiration of the pre-

flooding and post-flooding biomes and water columns. However, as Rammam HEPP

is a run of the river project with very small submerence area, the emissions due to

biomass decomposition and other factors shall be negligible.

CHAPTER – IX

ENVIRONMENTAL COST BENEFIT

ANALYSIS




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CHAPTER-9

ENVIRONMENT COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS

9.0 GENERAL

The development of any hydroelectric scheme involves inevitable impacts. Some of these

are negative and some positive. However, the deciding factor for any scheme is usually the

cost derived from securing a steady and predictable source of electricity. Cost Benefit

Analysis (CBA) simply compares all the expected present and future benefits of a project

with its present and future costs. It is a tool used either to rank projects or to choose the

most appropriate option. The ranking or decision is based on expected economic costs and

benefits.

This chapter discusses about the technique used for testing the financial viability of the

project i.e. whether the investment to be made is worth and whether the project is

financially rewarding. Costs here are described as the intended or unintended negative

effects of project investment, whereas, benefits is described as the intended or unintended

positive effects of the project. CBA aims to maximize economic efficiency at a point where

marginal benefits and marginal costs are equal.

9.1 NEED FOR THE HYDROPOWER PROJECT

In order to meet the ever-increasing power demand, it is imperative to commission power

projects in the State of West Bengal. The proposed Rammam Stage-III Hydro Electric

Project (HEP) would not only meet the power requirements, but would also improve the

ratio of hydro, thermal mix as well. Rammam Stage-III H.E Project is a Run of the River

(ROR) scheme utilizing power potential of Rammam River from elevation 900 m to 385

m, in the District of Darjeeling in the West Bengal with an installed capacity of 120 MW

(3x 40 MW). The Proposed project is Run of River hydro project, is a readily available

source of renewable electricity in a sustainable manner, and helps to meet greenhouse gas

emissions reduction targets as a part of worldwide efforts to reduce the impacts of climate

change.




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9.1.1 Power Evacuation

As per National Electricity Plan (NEP), 2018, Capacity addition in between 2017-22 in

Hydro Power Sector in ER is limited to only one project, i.e. Rammam HEP, Stage-III

(3x40 MW) by NTPC. Ministry of Power has given following allocation:

S.No. State Share in installed Capacity (%)

Equivalent quantum in installed Capacity (MW)

1 West Bengal 73 87.6 2 Sikkim 12 14.4 3 Unallocated 15 18

100 120

As per the interstate agreement between Sikkim & West Bengal, the share of Power of the

Sikkim Government (12%) will be made available to the Sikkim Government at free of

cost. The issue of power generation of the project shall be taken up through 4 nos. of 132

kV outgoing Feeders from Rammam Stage-III Switchyard.

One 132 KV Double Circuit line from Rammam Stage-III to NJP 220/132/33 KV

substation & Looped in and Looped out (LILO) of one existing 132 KV single circuit line

from Rammam Stage-II to NBU 132 KV substation need to be constructed. This is in the

stage of finalization with West Bengal Electricity Development Corporation Limited

(WBSEDCL).

9.2 ENVIRONMENT COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS

The main intention if this section is to determine the impacts and benefits from the

proposed Run of River (ROR) project using cost - benefits analysis to verify significance

of the proposed project to the area. Hydroelectric project generally involves intervention

in river thereby changing river flow regime in the submergence area and causes changes in

existing land use in relation to the land forest, agriculture and barren land beside

waterbodies. Preferences for or against an impact may change through time and the relative

price effect has to be accounted for. Costs and benefits are rarely known with certainty so

that risk (probabilistic outcomes) and uncertainty (when no probabilities are known) also




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have to be taken into account. Finally, identifying the distributional incidence of costs and

benefits is also important.

The MoEF&CC vide OM No. 7-69/2011-FC(Pt.), dated 1st August, 2017 (Copy enclosed

at Annexure-XXIII), issued Guidelines for conducting Cost Benefit Analysis for projects

involving diversion of forest land under the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act,

1980. The guidelines provide a broad and self-explanatory methodology for assessing

ecological and environmental losses and eco-economic distress caused to the people who

are displaced and weighted against economic and social gains. As per above mentioned

OM, Cost Benefit Analysis for forest diversion is not required for proposals involving

forest land up to 20 Ha. in plains and up to 5 Ha. in hills.

9.3 ENVIRONMENT COST

The major impacts due to the project would be direct, e.g. diversion of forest land, change

in topography, impact to aquatic life and reduction in diversity and population density of

migratory fishes, Rehabilitation and Resettlement of Project Affected Families (PAFs). In

addition there are host of indirect impacts like loss of animal husbandry productivity, loss

of fodder, etc.

9.3.1 Cost of Forest Land diverted

Forests are a stabilizing force for the climate. They regulate ecosystems, protect

biodiversity, play an integral part in the carbon cycle, support livelihoods, and supply

goods and services that can drive sustainable growth. The diversion of forestland for non-

forestry purpose certainly destabilize the existing eco-system balance. As per “Polluter

Pays” principle, the agency demanding the diversion of forest land has to pay for the loss

of benefits from ecological services from such land. Increasing and maintaining forests is

therefore an essential solution to climate change. As per MoEF&CC guidelines dated

01.08.2017, the economic value of loss of eco-system services due to diversion of forests

shall be the Net Present Value (NPV) of forest land being diverted as prescribed by the

Central Government (MoEF& CC).




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The project implementation is likely to envisage impacts on the land use pattern due to

diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes i.e., for construction and widening of roads,

installation of surface components both upstream and downstream stretch of the river. The

total land requirement for this project has been finalized to be 74.077 ha out of which 1.927

ha is forest land, 10.334 Ha is Government land and 61.806 ha is private land. As a part of

the EIA study, detailed Ecological survey was conducted for one season. Based on the

findings of the survey, it can be concluded that the density and diversity of vegetation in

the project area acquired is quite low.

9.3.2 Compensatory Afforestation

Compensatory afforestation (CA) is one of the most important requirement/condition for

prior approval of the Central Government for diversion of forest land for non-forest

purposes and the purpose of compensatory afforestation (CA) is to compensate the loss of

'land by land' and loss of 'trees by trees'. It can be treated as a replacement cost of diverted

forestland by way of either afforestation in equivalent new non-forest area or double of

area diverted in a degraded forest area. Forest land diverted for project such as irrigation,

hydropower, railways, roads and transmission lines are unlikely to be returned and remain

in possession of the user agencies. As per MoEF&CC guidelines dated 01.08.2017, 30%

of environmental costs (NPV) due to loss of forests or circle rate of adjoining area in the

district should be added as a cost component of possession value of forestland, whichever

is maximum.

9.3.3 Cost incurred in Rehabilitation & Resettlement

The most important deleterious impact during construction phase is, pertaining to land

acquisition. As per the Socio-Economic survey for the Project Affected Families (PAFs)

275 families have lost land, 61 families have lost land as well as homesteads and 11

families have lost homesteads. Approved Budget for R&R plan is 59.20 Crore, Total




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approved budget is Rs. 45.20 Crore for land & House shifting. Total of Rs. 3.58 Crores

disbursed as per R&R policy till 31.03.2021.

9.4 ENVIRONMENT BENEFITS

The benefits from the project are mainly from provision of green-fuel (hydropower), social

development and prosperity in area, direct and indirect employment due to the project,

development of infrastructure and facilities in the area.

9.4.1 Increase in Electricity Production

Although, the proportion of Hydro Electric Power (13.84%) in terms of installed Capacity

(MW) at Eastern Region (ER) is close to the national average of 12.33%, but the proportion

of Hydro + Renewable Energy source (RES) at ER is only 17.42% in comparison to the

national average of 35.92% (Country wide installed capacity dated 31.05.20 has been

considered). As per National Electricity Plan (NEP), 2018, Capacity addition in between

2017-22 in Hydro Power Sector in ER is limited to only one project, i.e. Rammam HPP,

Stage-III (3x40 MW) by NTPC. As per the interstate agreement between Sikkim & West

Bengal, the share of power of the Sikkim Government (12%) will be made available to the

Sikkim Government at free of cost. The Rammam Stage-III Hydro Electric Power Project

would not only meet the power requirements, but would also improve the ratio of hydro,

thermal mix as well.

9.4.2 Economic Benefits

Development of infrastructure and availability of reliable power supply as a result of the

project realization would contribute to the stimulation of economic activities like small

scale industries in the area. Additional power generation will mitigate the power shortage

in the country. Some of the local people may get temporary jobs during the operational

phase of the project depending on their skill and performance. The project will act as

stimulant to improve the economy both at the local and National levels. There would be

increase in government tax collection due to implementation of this project.




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9.4.3 Employment Generation

The estimated no. of employees during operation phase of the project is estimated to be

about 50. Considering the staff of CISF and support services, it is estimated that about 100

families will reside in the project township during operation stage. However, during

construction stage, the number of workers are much higher (about 1000).

9.4.4 Economic Benefits due to Catchment Area Treatment Plan


structure of the proposed barrage site has been prepared as a part of the Comprehensive

EIA study. NTPC has deposited Rs. 7.28 Crores in favor of Principal Chief Conservator of

Forests, West Bengal as part of proposal for implementation of CAT Plan for Rammam

Stage-III project. NTPC has deposited Rs. 1.46 Crores in favor of PCCF cum Principal

Secretary, Govt. of Sikkim as part of proposal for implementation of CAT Plan for

Rammam Stage-III project.

9.4.5 Positive Social Impact Assessment of Project

For economic development, infrastructure building is utmost important viz. power, road,

railways, dam, irrigation projects, mining, plantation, etc. For infrastructure development,

land is the most primary resource. The land may be free from any occupancy or occupied

by habitation, agricultural activity, plantation, forest, water, hills, barren, desert. The

ownership of land can be private or government or public bodies. In any infrastructural

projects, land acquisition is the key job. This results in two types of impacts on the

population who are owing or using this land for their habitation and/or livelihood. The

impacts are: a) Negative, b) Positive. The gravity of impact can be direct or indirect or

cumulative.

Negative impacts of any infrastructural project are highlighted for necessary resettlement

and rehabilitation work. In the projects, the negative impacts are always short-term and

applicable to limited number of population who are directly or indirectly involved. Positive

impacts are hardly highlighted. The positive impacts of any infrastructural project are long-

term and applicable to both affected and non-affected population. Positive impacts are the




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visible indicators of economic development. The positive impacts are visible from the

infrastructural development itself and different income generating activities during the

project construction period and after the completion of the project.

The Rammam Stage-III HEP will have both positive and negative social impacts. The

prime positive impacts of Rammam Stage-III HEP are as follows:

Development of road, transport and communication facilities.

Development of ancillary industries to meet the requirement of the project.

Development of educational institutions such as schools, colleges, vocational

institutions, etc.

Opening of banks, post offices, hospitals, religious places, community welfare

centers, etc.

Generation of direct and indirect employment

Market activities will be increased and thereby purchasing power of the population

will also be increased.

The overall impact will be to provide better quality of life to population than mere

Resettlement and Rehabilitation of Project Affected Population.

The negative social impacts could be due to loss of land and homesteads and displacement

of population.

A total expenditure under CSR/CD activities undertaken by project is about Rs. 8.00 Crores

(until March 2021) and local people have benefited from these activities.

9.5 ENVIRONMENT COST AND BENEFITS

The environment cost and benefits of the project has been carried out based on the

methodology and discussion made in foregoing section/sub-sections and elucidated in the

following sections.

9.5.1 Expenditure on R&R and Community Development

The expenditure on R&R and Community Development as on 31.03.2021 is shown in

Table 9.1.




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Table 9.1 Expenditure on R&R and Community Development

S. No.

Descriptions Actual Expenditure (Rs. Lakh) incurred 31.03.2021

REHABILITATION MEASURES: 1 One time Rehabilitation Package 357.49 2 Skill Development & Training and

Scholarships 1.46

Sub-total 358.95 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & OTHER MEASURES:

3 Educational Facilities 59.1 4 Health Facilities 287.29 5 Village Sports & Cultural Programme 15.44 6 Infrastructure Development Work 367.66

Sub-total 729.49 IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES:

7 Miscellaneous Expenses 68.71 Grand Total 798.20

9.5.2 Cost for Implementing Environmental Management Plan

The total amount spent for implementation of Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is

Rs. 2948.9 lakh (excluding cost required for cost of trees and NPV of forest land acquired).

The details are given in Table-9.2.

Table-9.2

Cost for Implementing Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

S. No. Item Cost* (Rs. lakh) 1. Sanitary facilities in labour camps 41.0 2. Solid waste management 53.5 3. Provision for free fuel distribution 78.6 4. Environmental Management in road construction 99.0 5. Management of muck disposal sites 103.1 6. Landscaping and restoration of construction sites 20.0 7. Greenbelt development 15.0 8. Compensatory afforestation 15.9 9. Public Health Delivery System 250.0

10. Construction of settling tanks 20.0




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11. Sustenance of riverine fisheries 65.0 12. Wildlife Conservation 83.7 13. Setting up Environmental Laboratory 30.0 14. Catchment Area Treatment Plan 320.8 15. Resettlement & Rehabilitation Plan including CD 1903.0 16. Cost of noise meter 0.5 17. Environmental Monitoring Programme during

construction phase (refer Table-9.2) 70.0

18. Contingencies 100.0 Total 3269.1

Note: * The above cost is exclusive of the cost required for cost of trees and NPV of the

forest land to be acquired.

Overall, the developmental activities in the proposed Rammam Stage-III HEP project will

increase economy of country and state through power generation, taxes, supporting

economy for nation’s growth.

However, as the project is already under advance stage of construction, after accord of

Techno-economic clearance, the cost benefit is already establsished and the completion of

the project is essential.

CHAPTER – X

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN




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CHAPTER-10

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

10.0 INTRODUCTION

This chapter provides a description of the administrative aspects of ensuring that

mitigative measures are implemented and their effectiveness monitored, after approval of

the EIA. Based on the evaluation of impacts and baseline conditions, an Environmental

Management Plan (EMP) has been delineated to mitigate the adverse impacts. The EMP

includes formulation, implementation and monitoring of environmental protection

measures. The EMP features guidelines and methodologies to be adopted at different

stages of the project for mitigating the impacts of various activities. The EMP is herein

outlined after taking into account the various Acts, Rules and Regulations/Standards

concerned with the environmental management. Thus, it is a planned and integrated

programme aimed at ensuring that both identified and unidentified impacts that may arise

during the various phases of the project are brought to an acceptable level.

10.1 EMP DURING VARIOUS PROJECT PHASES

Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is the key to ensure a safe and clean

environment. The desired results from the environmental mitigation measures proposed

in the project may not be obtained without a management plan to assure its proper

implementation and function. The EMP envisages the plans for the proper

implementation of mitigation measures to reduce the adverse impacts arising out of the

project activities. EMP has been prepared addressing the issues like:

Pollution control/mitigation measures for abatement of the undesirable impacts

caused during the construction and operation phase of the project.

Details of management plans (air pollution control devices/measures, utilization of

treated sewage, solid waste management plan etc.)

Institutional set up identified/recommended for implementation of the EMP.

Post project environmental monitoring programme to be undertaken




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Expenditures for environmental protection measures and budget for EMP.

10.2 CONTROL OF POLLUTION FROM LABOUR CAMPS DURING

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

As the project is in advanced stage of construction in its all three units (Unit 1, 2, & 3)

various types of construction equipment are already made available within the site and

the construction is likely to last till December, 2026. The aggregation of large labour

population of about 1000 nos. during construction phase has significant stress on various

facets of environment. Around 200 labours are local residents. The various issues covered

in environmental management during construction phase are:

- Facilities in labour camps

- Sanitation and sewage treatment facilities

- Solid waste management

- Provision of community kitchen

10.2.1 Facilities in labour camps

The labour population resides in 2 to 3 colonies near to the construction site. These

structures are tin sheds. These sheds have internal compartments allotted to each worker

family. The labour camp sites have electricity and ventilation system, water supply and

community sanitation facilities.

The water for meeting domestic requirements being collected from the rivers or streams

flowing upstream of the labour camps. The water is transferred to the labour camps,

stored in tanks and utilized.

10.2.2 Sanitation facilities

The total water requirements work out to be 70.0 KLD @ 70 lpcd. It is assumed that

about 80% of the water supplied will be generated as sewage. Thus, total quantum of

sewage generated is 56.0 KLD. This is being sent to Biodigestor septic tank and treated

water is being reused/recycled for landscaping.




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10.2.3 Solid waste management from labour camps

The labour colony located at diversion site, power house site and at adit sites. During

construction phase, about 1000 labours are congregated. The average per capita solid

waste generated is of the order of 450 gm/day/person. The solid waste generated from

labour camps is of the order of 0.45 tonnes/day. Adequate facilities for collection,

conveyance and disposal of solid waste are developed. The solid wastes being disposed

regularly through Nayabazar Jorethang Municipal Corporation (NJMC).

10.2.4 Provision of free fuel

At present LPG gas is being used for officers & staff engaged in the construction work.

Adequate fuel for labour camp (about 100 LPG cylinders, Kerosene & fire wood) is

provided by the contractors. Also, fuel depot at Jorethang (South Sikkim) is available

within accessible reach from site. The cost provision for free fuel distribution has

been made.

10.3 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT IN ROAD CONSTRUCTION

The approach roads of 29 km was proposed to be constructed out of which 11.7 km has

been completed and reaming are under construction, as a part of providing appropriate

infrastructure for transporting staff and equipment to the construction site. In a hilly

environment, construction of roads sometime disturbs the scenic beauty of the area. In

addition, landslides are often triggered due to road construction because of the loosening

of rocks by water trickling from various streams. Steeply sloping banks are liable to

landslides, which can largely be controlled by provision of suitable drainage. The basic

principle is to intercept and divert as much water as possible, before it arrives at a point,

where it becomes a nuisance. The other erosion hazard is that of surface erosion of the

bank, which is best controlled by vegetation. However, in a steeply sloping terrain,

difficulty lies in growing vegetation on steeply sloping banks. Engineering solutions such

as surface drainage, sub-surface drainage, toe protection and rock bolting were used. The

cost required for implementation of various measures has already been incorporated in

the overall budget earmarked for construction of roads.




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In hilly terrain, road construction often generates significant quantity of wastes (muck)

due to the stripping of the rocks to make way for the roads. The stripped material is

collected and dumped in the designated muck disposal area with toe wall to prevent the

muck to flow down into the river. After disposal operation is complete at the dump site,

the dump yard shall be contoured and vegetated.

The various aspects considered while making the project roads are briefly described as

following.

Construction

Area for clearing and grubbing kept minimum subject to the technical requirements of

the road. The clearing area properly demarcated to save desirable trees and shrubs and

to keep tree cutting to the minimum.

Where erosion is likely to be a problem, clearing and grubbing operations is done in

such a way that scheduled and performed that grading operations and permanent

erosion control of features can follow immediately thereafter, if the project conditions

permit; otherwise temporary erosion control measures is being provided between

successive construction stages. Under no circumstances, very large surface area of

erodible earth material are exposed at any time by clearing and grubbing.

The method of balanced cut and fills formation adopted to avoid large difference in cut

and fill quantities.

The cut slopes suitably protected by breast walls, provision of flat stable slopes,

construction of catch water and intercepting drains, treatment of slopes and unstable

areas above and underneath the road, etc.

Where rock blasting is involved, controlled blasting techniques adopted to avoid over-

shattering of hill faces.

Excavated material dumped duly dressed up in a suitable form at appropriate places

where it cannot get easily washed away by rain, and such spoil deposits provided with

some vegetative cover.




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Drainage

All artificial drains linked with the existing natural drainage system.

Surface drains have gentle slopes. Where falls in levels are to be negotiated, check

dams with silting basins are constructed and that soil is not eroded and carried away by

high velocity flows.

Location and alignment of culverts so chosen as to avoid severe erosion at outlets and

siltation at inlets.

Grassing and Planting

Tree felling for road construction/works was bare minimum and strict control

exercised in consultation with the Forest Department.

Depending on the availability of land and other resources, afforestation of roadside

land shall be carried out to a sufficient distance on either side of the road.

About 29 km of roads were proposed to be constructed out of which 11.7 km has been

completed as a part of Rammam Stage-III hydroelectric project.

10.4 MANAGEMENT OF MUCK DISPOSAL SITES

For hydro-power projects, the quantity of muck generated is quite high for setting up of

various structures. Muck generated from excavation of any project component is required

to be disposed in a planned manner so that it takes a least possible space and is not

hazardous to the environment. In the hilly area, dumping is done after creating terraces.

The overall idea is to enhance/maintain aesthetic view in the surrounding area of the

project in post-construction period and avoid contamination of any land or water resource

due to muck disposal.

Muck of 0.99 Mm3 is expected to be generated from construction of project. Out of

which 0.40 Mm3 is being utilized as construction material. At the present the dumping

sites are already identified for muck disposal. The balance 0.59 Mm3 muck shall be

disposed at designated/identified site in a planned manner so that it takes a least possible

space and is not hazardous to the environment. An area of 6.66 Ha has been earmarked




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which can cater the entire quantity of muck to be disposed. About 0.132 Mm3 of

aggregate is utilized for filling and construction works from muck generated during

excavation of underground works like HRT and desilting chamber. A toe wall has been

created around the muck disposal site and more landscaping to be done in the muck site.

10.5 RESTORATION AND LANDSCAPING OF PROJECT SITES

The construction of the project, including its various appurtenances e.g. barrage, power

house, approach roads, labour camps, project colony, etc. would disturb the existing

topography and physiography. It is proposed to landscape the area, so that it integrates

with the natural surroundings and the beauty of the area is restored. Accordingly, it is

proposed to develop small gardens at 2 locations and few view points along the periphery

of the water spread area and power house site.

The landscaping plan is detailed as below:

- Garden complex

- View points

- Landscaping

The above referred measures are described briefly in the following paragraphs:

Garden Complex: A garden with local ornamentation plants and trees shall be created at

two locations, i.e. one each near the barrage/dam and project colony sites. All plants will

be properly labelled with scientific and/or common names.

Creation of viewpoints: Two viewpoints shall be created one near the powerhouse and

other at suitable place along the periphery of the water spread area. These view points

will be slab type extension above the ground, which will be properly reinforced and

fenced to avoid any undesirable incidence. It will be given a shed and plantation of

ornamental plants will be done near it.

Landscaping: Various sites in the area will be stabilized by constructing a series of

benches. The walls that will be constructed for containing the slope will be embedded

with local stone to integrate with the aesthetics of the area.

A total provision of Rs. 20 lakh is earmarked for restoration and landscaping of project

sites.




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10.6 GREENBELT DEVELOPMENT

The total land acquired for the project is about 74.007 ha, of which only 1.927 ha is the

forest land. Although the forest loss due to various project appurtenances will be

compensated as a part of compensatory afforestation, in addition to above, it is proposed

to develop greenbelt. Till date 11000 saplings has been planted in project area as well as

in nearby villages.

The general consideration involved while developing the greenbelt are:

- Local plant species trees growing upto 10 m or above in height with perennial

foliage have planted around various appurtenances of the proposed project.

- Planting of trees has been undertaken in appropriate encircling rows around the

project site.

- Fast growing trees have selected for plantation

- Since, the tree trunk area is normally devoid of foliage upto a height of 3 m, it

may be useful to have shrubbery in front of the trees so as to give coverage to this

portion.

The plantation at a spacing of 2.5 * 2.5 m. The plantation and maintenance of the

plantation area is being done by the project proponents in association with the State

Government. The selection of species for greenbelt development and afforestation for

further plantation shall be done in consultation with State Forest Department.

The following native species are being planted and suggested to plant under green belt development.

Table 10.1

List of Plant Species for Greenbelt

Sr. No. Name of Species Form of Species 1. Albizia chinensis Tree 2. Bischofia javanica Tree 3. Duabanga grandiflora Tree 4. Engelhardtia spicata, Tree 5. Erythrina arborescens Tree 6. Ficus reticulata, Tree 7. Gynocardia odorata Tree




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8. Boehmeria platyphylla Tree 9. Caesalpinia decapetala, Tree 10 Euonymus pendulus, Tree 11. Chromolaena odorata, Tree 12 Holmskioldia anguinea, Tree 13. Holmskioldia anguinea, Tree 14 Hedychium spicatum Sm. Medicinal Plants 15. Acrocarpus fraxinifolius Arnott. Tree 16. Centella asiatica (L.) Urban Medicinal Plants 17. Costus speciosus Smith Medicinal Plants 18. Acacia catechu (L. f.) Willd. Tree 19. Agapetes serpens(Wight) Sleumer Shrub 20. Albizia procera (Roxb.) Benth. Tree 21. Antidesma acidum Retzium. Shrub

10.7 COMPENSATORY AFFORESTATION

The total land acquired for the project is about 74.007 ha, of which 1.927 ha is the forest

land. During field study, it was found that the forest land acquired for the project do not

contain any unique or rare or endangered species. The loss of vegetal cover can be

compensated by compensatory afforestation. The Forest Conservation Act (1980)

stipulates:

- if non-forest land is not available, compensatory forest plantations are to be

established on degraded forest lands, which must be twice the forest area affected

or lost, and

- if non-forest land is available, compensatory forest are to be raised over an area

equivalent to the forest area affected or lost.

Compensatory afforestation and identification of suitable native tree species are done by

State Forest Department. NTPC has paid the amount estimated by the Forest Department

as Net Present Value (NPV) of forest land acquired. NTPC has deposited Rs. 7.28 Crores

in favor of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, West Bengal as part of proposal for


1.46 Crores in favour of PCCF cum Principal Secretary, Govt. of Sikkim as part of

proposal for implementation of CAT Plan for Rammam Stage-III project. Compensatory




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afforestation has been done by the Sikkim State Forest Department as per the stipulating

outlined as a part of Forestry Clearance. However, utilization certificate from West

Bengal Forest department is awaited.

10.8 BIODIVERSITY AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT

PLAN

10.8.1 Introduction

Biodiversity plays a major role as it provides the fundamental building blocks for the

many goods and services which provide a healthy environment to lead our life. It

includes fundamental things to our health like fresh water, clean air and food products, as

well as the many other products and also serves as cultural, recreational, and spiritual

nourishment that play an important role in maintaining our personal life as well as social

life.

The implementation of Biodiversity conservation strategy is a challenging job especially

in North-Eastern States of India likes Sikkim state and Darjeeling hills of West Bengal as

the area is predominant with various tribal populations, which consider themselves as an

integral part of the forest ecosystem.

The formulation of a biodiversity management plan for a developmental project is one of

the steps towards the environment conservation. Human activities like agricultural

expansion, road construction, Dam construction, urbanization, and other developmental

activities are supposed to be major threats to biodiversity and wildlife, therefore, the most

effective and efficient mechanisms for conserving biodiversity is to prevent destruction

of habitats. Four strategies required for the biodiversity management are in situ strategy,

ex situ strategy, reduction of anthropogenic pressure and rehabilitation of endangered

species. A copy of Wildlife Conservation plan is enclosed at Annexure-XVIII.

10.8.2 Biodiversity Policy of NTPC

NTPC has become the first PSU to publish a Biodiversity Policy 2018 and become a

member of IBBI (India Business and Biodiversity Initiative). This is also in line with




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National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP) 2008, which recommends set of actions

towards biodiversity management. A copy of Biodiversity Policy is enclosed at

Annexure-XXIV.

The purpose of the Biodiversity Policy to mainstream the concept of biodiversity across

NTPC’s value chain and adopt a precautionary approach for sustainable management of

biodiversity in all decision making processes so that the earth's variety of life is

maintained ensured in and around NTPC’s the business units of NTPC.

Policy Statement

To mainstream the concept of biodiversity across NTPC’s value chain and adopt a

precautionary approach for sustainable management of biodiversity in all decision-

making processes so that the earth's variety of life is ensured in and around the business

units of NTPC

The policy is applicable to all existing and upcoming business units of NTPC and each

employee is a partner in implementing the policy.

The Biodiversity policy is guided by following five principles:

a) Consideration of biodiversity in all business decision right from planning to

operations and closure of sites;

b) Minimization of adverse impacts on biodiversity through right combination of

best industry practices and state of art technologies;

c) Biodiversity goals are not limited to statutory and regulatory compliances but are

aimed at the continual improvement of the biodiversity;

d) Provision of accountability for all locations and creating systems to respond to

any aberration;

e) Capacity building through inclusiveness and regular knowledge sharing on

biodiversity with concerned stakeholders;




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10.8.3 Objectives

The main objective of Biodiversity Conservation and Management plan is sustainable use

of natural resources, which involves scientific management of natural wealth vis-à-vis

developmental activities, is likely to affect these resources. The threats to natural

terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem generally arise due to by anthropogenic activities that

may arise because of construction and associated activities of project. A detailed

biodiversity conservation and management plan has been proposed and the main

objectives of said plan are as follows:

Maintenance of ecological balance through preservation and restoration of

wherever it has been disturbed due to project developmental activities

Conservation and preservation of natural habitats in catchment area

Rehabilitation of IUCN threatened category, if any provisions for in-situ or ex-situ

conservation of IUCN threatened and Schedule –I species

Mitigation and control of project catchment area by taking up afforestation and soil

conservation measures

Creating all round awareness regarding conservation and ensuring people’s

participation in the conservation efforts and minimizing man animal conflict.

10.8.4 Study area

The submergence area is 3.852 Ha, which is located in upstream of confluence of

Rammam River near Lodhama Village in the Darjeeling district. The area in the vicinity

of project comprised of degraded Mixed broad-leaf tropical deciduous forest with few

Semi-evergreen riverine tree species.

On right bank of Rammam river, the tree canopy is comprised of Albizia chinensis,

Bischofia javanica, Duabanga grandiflora, Engelhardtia spicata, Erythrina arborescens,

Ficus reticulata, Gynocardia odorata, Schima wallichiiand Tetradium fraxinifolium.

Second storey is also very thin and composed of some small trees and tall spreading

weeds. Boehmeria platyphylla, Caesalpinia decapetala, Euonymus pendulus,

Chromolaena odorata, Holmskioldia anguinea, Lantana camara, Rhamnus nepalensis,




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etc. are found in the under storey. Climbers and epiphytes are often seen on the forest

floor. Cissus discolor, Cuscuta reflexa, Jasminum humile, Lygodium japonicum, Piper

sylvaticum, Stephania glabra, Todalia asiatica, etc. are important trailing species.

Herbaceous flora was represented by some pteridophytic plants, grasses and weeds. The

pteridophytes are represented by species of Adiantum, Coniograme, Lygodium,

Selaginella, etc. on this bank. Among the herbs and grasses are Ageratum conyzoides,

Artemisia nilagirica, Arundinella nepalensis, Arthraxon hispidus, Capillipedium

assimile, Commelina benghalensis, Eupatorium adenophorum, Imperata cylindrica,

Lespedeza gerardiana, Oxalis corniculata, Pilea scripta, Pogonatherum paniceum,

Saccharum spontaneum and Thysanolaena latifolia.

Species composition of left bank is more or less similar to the right bank but

Dendrocalmus hamiltonii clumps is the dominant and Alnus nepalensis was found as a

dominant tree species with other tree associates. Important tree associates were Albizia

chinensis, Bischofia javanica, Bombax ceiba, Duabanga grandiflora, Erythrina

arborescens, Oroxylum indicum, Pandanus nepalensis, Schima wallichii, etc. Second

storey was very open and occupied by few trailing and spreading shrubby species.

Dendrocalmus hamiltonii, Chromolaena odorata, Mimosa himalayana, etc. were in the

under storey. Climbers and epiphytes were rare. Herbs were represented by few non

vascular pteridophytic plants, weeds and few grasses.

10.8.5 Protected areas

There are two protected areas which are Singalila National Park and Barsey Rododendron

Sanctuary located within the Buffer zone area. Singalila National Park ESZ is located on

the west side of project area at a distance of about 7.1 km from the barrage site. The

Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary ESZ is at a distance of 4.2 km from the barrage

site on NW side.




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10.8.6 Conservation plan for IUCN Threatened Category plants

According to Nayar and Sastry (1987, 1988, and 1990) and Ministry of Environment and

Forests, 13 species of plants are under the endangered category, two of them viz. Zeuxine

pulchra (Orchidaceae) and Dennstaedtia elwesii (Dennstaedtiaceae) in all probability

have already disappeared from Sikkim Himalaya. Around 10 species of plants are in

vulnerable category and 18 species have become rare. Six species of plants have

indeterminate status such as Acer hookeri var. majus (Endangered), Aconitum ferox

(Vulnerable), Acronema pseudotenera (Indeterminate), Angelica nubigena

(Indeterminate), Aphyllorchis parviflora (Rare), Arenaria thangoensis (Vulnerable),

Athyrium duthei (Vulnerable), Begonia rubella (Rare), Begonia satrapis (Rare), Begonia

scutata (Rare), Calamus inermis (Endangered), Calanthe alpina (Rare), Calanthe mannii

(Rare), Carex kingiana (Indeterminate), Ceropegia hookeri (Endangered), Ceropegia

lucida (Endangered or possibly extinct), Christella clarkei (Vulnerable), Christopteris

tricuspis (Indeterminate), Cissus spectabilis (Endangered), Codonopsis affinis (Rare),

Coelogyne truetleri (Possibly extent), Cotoneaster simonsii ((Indeterminate),

Cyclogramma squamaestipes (Rare), Cymbidium eburneum (Vulnerable), Cymbidium

hookerianum (Vulnerable), Cymbidium whiteae (Endangered), Cypripedium elegans

(Rare), Cypripedium himalaicum (Rare), Dennstaedtia elwesii (possibly extent), Didiciea

cunninghamii (Endangered), Juncus sikkimensis (Rare), Lactuca cooperi (Endangered),

Lagerstroemia minuticarpa (Rare), Livistona jenkinsiana (Endangered), Lloydia

himalensis (Rare), Mecodium levingei (Rare), Nardostachys grandiflora (Vulnerable),

Ophiorrhiza lurida (Rare), Oreopteris elwesii (Rare), Panax pseudoginseng (Vulnerable),

Paphiopedilumfairrieanum (Endangered), Paphiopedilum venustum (Vulnerable),

Phoenix rupicola (Rare), Picrorhiza kurrooa (Vulnerable), Pimpinella tongloensis

(Endangered), Pimpinella wallichii (Endangered), Pternopetalum radiatum

(Indeterminate), Rhopalocnemis phalloides (Rare), and Zeuxine pulchra (Endangered or

Extinct), these plant species included in the “Carrying capacity study of Teesta basin in

Sikkim” published by Ministry of Environment and Forests. Among these plant species,

only one species which is Phoenix rupicola (Near Threatened as per IUCN Redlist




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Category) available in the Barrage influence area. There is no vegetation in the Township

and Power house areas where the vegetation was cleared.

The peculiar topography, the area and the location of the barrage on a comparatively

narrow gorge, perhaps makes the creation of a comparatively 3.852 Ha submerging,

small forest area obligatory in this case. However, there deeming feature is that the type

of forest affected is, by no means unique to this area alone but occurs in other areas of the

vast catchment. Moreover, the percentage of forest-covered land in this catchment is

quite low which is 1.927 Ha reserved forest and the provision of compensatory

afforestation should adequately take care of the possibility of upsetting the ecological

balance. However, it is suggested that while clearing the forest area to be submerged, the

Forest Department should take adequate care to translocation the rare species of plants

particularly orchids, tree ferns and medicinal herbs and shrubs to other adjoining forest

areas as far as feasible and the Project Authority should fully co-operate in this job. These

should also ensure that their men and machineries create the least disturbance in the

neighboring forest areas. Some of the techniques for ex-situ conservation are listed in

Table 10.2.

Table 10.2 Techniques of ex-situ conservation

Techniques Definition Seed storage Collection of seed samples at one location and their transfer to a gene bank for

storage. The samples are usually dried to suitable low moisture content and then kept at sub-zero temperatures.

Field gene bank The collecting of seed or living material from one location and its transfer and planting at a second site. Large numbers of accessions of a few species are usually conserved.

Botanic garden/ arboretum

The collecting of seed or living material from one location and its transfer and maintenance at a second location as living plant collections of species in a garden or for tree species in an arboretum. Small numbers of accessions of a large number of species are usually conserved.

In vitro storage The collection and maintenance of explants (tissue samples) in a sterile, pathogen-free environment

DNA/pollen The collecting of DNA or pollen and storage in appropriate, usually storage refrigerated conditions.




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From the techniques mentioned in Table 10.2, creation of Botanic garden is proposed for

conservation of endangered plants found in Rammam river catchment area. It is proposed

to afforest rare and endangered species over an area of 2.5 ha (as a part of compensatory

afforestation) as a measure for ex-situ conservation and propagation in consultation with

Forest Departments of both states of West Bengal and Sikkim.

Many of the threatened plants and the superior germplasm that are going to be affected

can be transplanted to safer locations. There are useful technologies that are available for

this purpose. Appropriate technologies suiting to the species concerned could be adopted.

Some of the vegetative propagation methods like air layering, grafting, stump planting,

cuttings, suckers, stolon’s, bulbil propagation etc. may find application here.

There are many important trees and superior germplasm in the area particularly of timber

species and bamboos. We need to create germplasm banks with the materials obtained

from it. Though the same species could be found elsewhere, the germplasm may not be

available. The propagation and cultivation of these species may be done in co-ordination

with the Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata, G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan

Environment and Development, Almora, Uttarakhand ENVIS Center at Gangtok,

Regional Botanical Survey of India, Gangtok and Forest departments of the both the

states.

10.8.7 Establishment of gardens for voucher specimens (Threatened category plants)

The proposed repositories would be of special interest to biodiversity conservation,

scientific research, education and environmental awareness. An Orchidarium and a fern

house are proposed to be developed near project area in association with national

Research Centre for Orchids, Pakyong, Sikkim, in which important species of orchids

and ferns collected from the catchment area will be conserved.

10.8.8 Conservation and cultivation of medicinal plants

It is proposed to develop herbal nursery at appropriate location preferably in the Gram

Panchayat. Self-help groups formed by women should be involved for the promotion of




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herbal drugs from the kitchen stock and rare medicinal plants. Species of medicinal plants

proposed for plantation in the project area is given as below:

i. Aconitum ferox Wall. Ex Ser. ii. Aconitum heterophyllum Wall. Ex Royle iii. Acorus calamus L. iv. Adhatoda vasica L. v. Allium wallichii Kunth. vi. Aloe barbadensis Mill. vii. Artemisia vulgaris L. viii. Astilbe rivularis Ham. ix. Berginia ciliata (How.) Sternb. x. Centella asiatica (L.) Urban xi. Costus speciosus Smith xii. Curcuma aromatica Salisb. xiii. Curcuma caesia Roxb. xiv. Hedychium spicatum Sm. xv. Kaempferia rotunda L. xvi. Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam) Pers. xvii. Nardostachys jatamansi DC. xviii. Ocimum basilicum L. xix. Orchis latifolia L. xx. Panax pseudoginseng Wall. xxi. Picrorrhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth. xxii. Podophyllum hexandrum Royle xxiii. Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn. xxiv. Swertia chirata Ham. xxv. Taxus baccata L. xxvi. Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers xxvii. Tupistra nutans Wall. xxviii. Zingiber cassumunar Roxb.

Farmers shall be trained to make them aware of the use of herbal plants and in animal

health care also. West Sikkim Forest Division is rich in a variety of medicinal plants.

However, in past uninhibited exploitation of medicinal plants has led to depletion of this

valuable resource. Therefore, in order to augment natural stock of medicinal plants in the




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forests, it is proposed to take up planting of medicinal plants and establishing medicinal

plants nurseries.

In order to ensure effective forest conservation, strong central legislation like Forest

Conservation Act and Wildlife Protection Act has been enacted. The CAMPA

(Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority) fund can be

utilized to regenerate degraded forest area by way of planting and protecting natural

regeneration. Networks of base camps and strike forces can be set up to improve forest

protection involving the local people.

Enhance the long-term survival of a species;

Re-establish a keystone species;

Maintain and/or restore natural biodiversity;

Provide long-term economic benefits to the local and/or national economy; to

promote conservation awareness; or a combination of these.

Improve vigilance by procurement of field vehicles and motorbikes.

Conduct public awareness programmes, training camps, distribution of pamphlets,

brochures, hoardings, etc.

Provision of fire lines within critical areas to protect the forest from accidental

fires.

10.8.9 Forest Protection Plan

The submergence area is 3.852 Ha which is located in upstream of confluence of

Rammam River near Lodhama Village in the Darjeeling district. The following measures

are proposed as a part of Forest Protection Plan:

PBR’s shall be prepared, maintained and to validate in consultation with the local

people so that the Register gives information about the details of access to

biological resources and traditional knowledge pertaining to the area.

In order to ensure effective forest conservation, strong central legislation like Forest

Conservation Act and Wildlife Protection Act has been enacted. The CAMPA

(Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority) fund can

be utilized to regenerate degraded forest area by way of planting and protecting




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natural regeneration. Networks of base camps and strike forces can be set up to

improve forest protection involving the local people.

Enhance the long-term survival of a species;

Re-establish a keystone species;

Maintain and/or restore natural biodiversity;

Provide long-term economic benefits to the local and/or national economy; to

promote conservation awareness; or a combination of these.

Improve vigilance by procurement of field vehicles and motorbikes.

Conduct public awareness programmes, training camps, distribution of pamphlets,

brochures, hoardings, etc.

Provision of fire lines within critical areas to protect the forest from accidental fires.

10.8.10 Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC)

The proposed Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) will follow the guidelines of

National Biodiversity Authority and State Biodiversity Conservation Strategy Action

Plans (SBCSAP) to implement, monitor and evaluate the Biodiversity Management Plan

of the existing Rammam Hydro Power project The Biodiversity Champion shall be

designated among the executives from the NTPC Rammam HEPP and he will carry out

the Biodiversity Conservation related activities with the help of others who keeps interest

on biodiversity.

The budget for implementation of Biodiversity and Wildlife Management Plan shall be

utilized from the CAT plan budget already deposited to the Forest Departments of Govt.

of West Bengal and Sikkim. An amount of Rs. 3.2562 crores &Rs. 1.189 crores have

been deposited to the forest department of West Bengal & Sikkim in 2008 & 2010,

respectively. Fund utilisation for Sikkim portion during 2009 & 2010 furnished by DFO,

LU & E (West), Forest, Envi. & WL Management Department, Govt. Of Sikkim has

already been forwarded to MoEF&CC, Shillong, vide NHL/RammamIII/11-12/01 dated

9th May 2011. Fund utilisation report for WB part is still awaited.




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10.9 PUBLIC HEALTH DELIVERY PLAN

The increase in water fringe area provides suitable habitats for the growth of vectors of

various diseases and they are likely to increase the incidence of water-related diseases.

Malaria could be the major water related vector-borne disease. The main breeding

seasons of the anopheline mosquito (malaria vector) are the months of September and

March. The preferred habitat is stagnant or slow-moving fresh water open to sunshine or

moderate shade. Malaria can be controlled by mosquito control and mosquito proofing

measures.

Mosquito control measures aim at destroying the habitat and interrupting the life cycle by

mechanical or biological or chemical means. The anti-malarial operations are coordinated

by various Primary Health Centres in the nearby villages and Hospital at District Head

Quarters in association with the project authorities.

Development of medical facilities

The labour population resides in 2 to 3 colonies near to the construction site. In addition

they may invariably come up with injuries caused by accidents at work site. Under all

circumstances, workers need immediate medical care.

Medical/ First Aid facilities along with Ambulance are available at all the working sites

for 24x7 for providing medical assistance in case any accident at site during construction.

Regular health check-up of all labour is done before issuing the work permit.

In addition to this, Doctor is available on permanent/ weekly basis at Power House/

Barrage site respectively.

The sanitation facilities and community toilets has been provided in labour camps to

prevent unhygienic conditions in project area. Regular medical check-up of construction

worker is done by various contracting agencies of NTPC. Regular fogging and sanitation

work is done in project township and labour camps. Regular water sprinkling is being

done at excavation area to minimize fugitive emissions causing health problems to locals.




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NTPC is always forefront in development of health facilities and its related programs

under community development activities. Periodically medical camps have been

organized in nearby villages and free medicines are provided to villagers during camps.

NTPC Rammam also have a Medical Dispensary for treatment of worker, employees and

PAPs. Approved budget for Health and medical services is 450 lakhs. In last 5 years

2015-2021 about 287.29 lakhs has been incurred on this head. Two ambulances have

been donated to Govt. Rural Hospital.

10.10 CONTROL OF AIR POLLUTION

Construction Phase

The air pollution is basically generated due to primary crushing and fugitive dust from

the heap of crushed material. The various crushers provided with cyclones to control the

dust generated while crushing the stone aggregates. The fine aggregates stacked after

crushing are regularly sprayed with water to prevent fugitive emissions.

In addition, fugitive emissions are generated as a result of movement of earth movers,

vehicular traffic on unpaved roads, etc. Regular spray water over such areas to prevent

entrainment of fugitive emissions being followed.

Operation Phase

The emissions from DG sets shall be periodically monitored and preventive maintenance

will be done regularly to achieve emission norms. All heavy vehicles and equipment’s for

clearing of road and landslides will have “Pollution Under Control” certificates. The

labour engaged in operation of plant will be given LPG Cylinders by contractors to avoid

the burning of fuel wood and avoid the CO2 emission.

10.11 CONTROL OF WATER POLLUTION

Construction Phase

During project construction phase, sufficient measures are implemented to ameliorate the

problem of water pollution from various sources. The sewage generated from various




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labour camps is treated in Biodigestor septic tank. The disposal sites of treated sewage

are located in such a way that the drinking water sources are not polluted.

The construction activities require a crusher to crush large lumps of rocks to the requisite

size for coarse as well as fine aggregates. The effluent generated from these crushers has

high suspended solids. The crusher plant effluent is being passed through settling tank to

remove the suspended solids and only the sediment free water is allowed to enter the

natural stream. The sludge from the various settling tanks collected once in 15 days and

disposed in environmentally friendly manner.

Operation phase

In the project operation phase, about 30 persons are likely to be involved for which a

project colony has already been commissioned. The colony have Biodigestor septic tank

to treat the sewage generated from the colony.

10.12 FISH MANAGEMENT

The implementation of fish management plan including construction of a hatchery has

been taken up with fisheries department, Govt. of West Bengal as well as with the

Fisheries Department of Sikkim. Comprehensive Fish Management Plan is awaited from

Govt. of W.B.

10.12.1 Release of minimum flow

The construction of the project will lead to reduction in flow, especially during dry

months, in the intervening stretch between the barrage/dam site and the tail race disposal

point. Such a situation may adversely affect the benthic communities and fish. Snow trout

(Schizothorax sp.) are likely to be affected as a result of obstruction in their migration

created by the barrage

The segment of river between barrage site and tail race disposal at certain places may

retain some water in shallow pools subjecting the fish to prey by birds and other animals.




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Such a condition will also enable the locals to catch fish indiscriminately. It is therefore,

very essential for the project authorities to maintain the minimum flow for the survival

and propagation of invertebrates and fish. In order to avoid the possible loss of aquatic

life, a minimum flow of 1 cumec shall always be released from the barrage/dam. The

minimum flow to be released is about 18% of the minimum flow of 5.35 cumec recorded

in river.

10.12.2 Fish Migration

Among the Himalayan fish, Tor putitora (Mahseer) is the most important species. The

fish traverses a long distance from the Himalayan foothills or even from the plains to the

upper reaches in smaller tributaries for spawning. Generally, the fish ascends during the

months of April-June and uses the main river channel as the migratory route and finally

enters tributaries to spawn. Water temperature, turbidity and food availability are the

main factors which led Mahseer to the tributaries. After spawning, the fish descends to

the main river during September and October.

10.12.3 Sustenance of Endemic Fisheries

Snow trout (Schizothoraxrichardsonii) is the endemic species. The barrage on river

Rammam developed as a part of the project will act as a barrier to the free movement of

fish species. There are no satisfactory fish passes available for snow trout. Due to its

dorso-lateral compressed body, the snow trout is not an active swimmer as compared to

Indian Mahaseer and exotic brown trout.

Since, Schizothorax richardsonii is categorized as vulnerable species amongst the

threatened fishes of India, scientific management of the existing stock needs be adopted.

The water spread area in the project is quite small and the project is envisaged as Run off

the River (ROR) scheme, with significant diurnal variations. Hence, reservoir stocking is

not recommended in the project.

It is proposed to implement supplementary stocking programmes for the project area. It is

proposed to stock River Rammam upstream and the downstream sides. On upstream side,




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stocking will be done upto diversion structure of Rammam-II HEP. On the downstream,

stocking will be done upto confluence of River Rangit with river Rammam. The rate of

stocking is proposed as 100 fingerlings of about 30 mm size per km. The stocking can be

done annually by the Fisheries Department, State Government of West Bengal. To

achieve this objective, facilities to produce seed of trout need to be developed at suitable

sites.

The total cost required for developing of hatcheries shall be Rs. 65 lakhs. The dimension

of the hatching nurseries and rearing unit and their approximate cost is given in Table-

10.3.

Table-10.3

Farm components in snowtrout facilities proposed for Rammam Stage-III HEP

Farm Component Area (m) Number

Type Rate of flow (lpm)

Cost (Rs. million)

Hatchery building 20x15x8.0 1 - - 0.5 Hatching trough each with 4 trays each

2.0x0.5x 0.4 20 Flow through system

3.0-5.0 1.0

Nursery ponds (Cement lined)

5.0 x 1.0 x 0.5

15 Flow through system

25-50 1.0

Rearing tanks (cement lined)

10.0 x 2.0 x 1.0


75-100 1.0

Stock raceways (cement lined)

25.0x3.0x 1.5


150-200 2.0

Storage – cum – silting tank

100x50x50 1 - - 1.0

Total 6.5

The above facility will be developed and implemented by Fisheries Department, State

Government of West Bengal at an appropriate site. The estimated amount for this facility

is Rs. 65 Lakhs. Seeds can be transported from this hatchery. The supply of seeds can be

augmented by collecting them from natural sources. Production, transportation and

stocking of fish material are a highly technical subject for which project proponent may




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not have the required expertise. Thus, implementation of this proposal may be done by

the Fisheries Department.

10.13 WILDLIFE CONSERVATION

As per the available data the project and its surrounding areas do not have much of

wildlife. Around the main construction areas i.e. the barrage site, powerhouse site, etc.

where construction workers congregate, no significant disturbance in the wildlife

population was observed. In view of the low wildlife concentration in the area, the

impacts due to various construction activities are marginal.

The project area is located at a distance of about 9 km from nearest boundary of Singalila

National Park and about 4.4 km from the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, West Sikkim.

None of the components of the project are situated within the National Park/ Wildlife

Sanctuary or their Eco sensitive Zones. Thus, no impact is expected on the National Park.

However, Wildlife Conservation Plan as proposed for implementation. The conservation

plan shall be submitted to wildlife department for approval and after approval, same shall

be implemented in consultation with state wildlife department.

10.14 SEISMICITY CONSIDERATIONS


intensities in the last 100-120 years. The project area forms a part of the seismic zone-IV

(as per seismic zoning map of BIS). As per Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS)

recommendation 0.1 g horizontal and 0.05 g vertical acceleration is to be considered for

design of structures on consolidated foundations.

The seismic study has been conducted by IIT Roorkee. The suggested Earth Quake (EQ)

design parameters have been cleared from National Committee of Seismic Design

Parameters (NCSDP) of CWC and are being adopted for design of the project

components. (Report already submitted to MOEF, Shillong in May 2011)




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10.15 NOISE CONTROL MEASURES

Noise pollution can be mitigated at the source itself. As discussed in Chapter-4, the

ambient noise levels would have marginal increase up to about 1 km from the major

construction sites. The increased level of noise will, however, not have any significant

adverse impact. The effect of high noise levels on the construction labour is to be

considered. It is known that continuous exposure to high noise levels above 90 dB(A)

affects the hearing acuity of the workers/operators and hence has to be avoided. Other

physiological and psychological effects have also been reported in literature, but the

effect on hearing acuity has been specially stressed. To prevent these effects, it has been

recommended by international specialist organizations that the exposure period of

affected persons is limited as specified in Table 4.12.

Further, they are provided with effective personal protective measures such as ear muffs

or ear plugs to be worn during periods of exposure.

The other measures to control noise are as follows:

- Equipment and machineries maintained regularly to keep the noise generation at

the design level;

- Silencers and mufflers of the individual machineries regularly checked.

10.16 ESTABLISHMENT OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT GROUP


headed by AGM level and assisted by Sr. Manager has been established by the

Rammam HEPP. This department deals with various environmental aspects including

follow-up with SPCB, Regional office MOEF&CC and CPCB and interacts with inter-

disciplinary groups responsible for maintenance and operation of pollution control

equipment and environmental protection measures. The Environmental Management

Group (EMG) is reporting to the Head of Project, for effective implementation of the

Environmental Management Plan (EMP).

As per the present set-up, the environmental groups in NTPC have a three-tier

organization structure, as shown in Table 10.4.




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Table-10.4

Organization Structure of NTPC for Overall Environmental Management

Corporate Centre

Engineering Environmental Engineering Group

Operations Environmental Management Group Ash Management Group Safety

Human Resources

Rehabilitation & Resettlement, CSR-CD Groups Horticulture Group Medical & Public Health

Regional Headquarters Environmental Management As Coordinator

Projects

Coordinator Environmental Management Group

Operation & Maintenance Hydro Engg & Maintenance group Safety

Human Resources R&R, CSR-CD Group Horticulture Medical & Public Health

10.17 SUMMARY OF IMPACTS AND EMP

A summary of impacts and proposed measures along with the implementing agencies is

given in Table-10.5.

Table-10.5

Summary of Impacts, suggested management measures and implementing agency

S. No.

Parameters Impact Management Measures

Implementing Agency

Actual Implementation

1. Land Environment Construction

phase

Increase in turbidity in the river downstream of barrage/dam and power house sites

Increased

incidence of water related diseases and other health

Proper collection and disposal of construction spoils.

Development of

PHC’s, first aid centre, anti-mosquito spray

NTPC/ Contractor

NTPC &

District Public Health Department

Disposal of spoils at Muck disposal site

NTPC

dispensary is established and regular sanitization activities being




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S. No.


Implementing Agency


problems Generation of

solid wastes from labour camps/colonies.

Disposal at

designated landfill sites.

NTPC/.

done

Disposal through NJMC

2. WATER RESOURCES Operation

phase River stretch

from barrage/dam site to tailrace outfall will have reduced flow during lean season.

Siltation and

sedimentation problems

Minimum flow will be released to maintain the riverine ecology

No major impact as project is Run off River project. Plantation and check dams will be constructed

NTPC Forest

Department/ NTPC

Plant is under construction Phase

3. WATER QUALITY Construction

phase Operation phase

Water pollution due to disposal of sewage from labour colonies.

Disposal of

effluents with high turbidity from crushers commissioned at various sites and effluents from adits at tunnel.

Deterioration of

water quality in the dry stretch of river due to reduced flow during the lean

Community toilets, Biodigestor septic tank

Settling tanks

provided. Minimum flow of

1 cumec will be released

NTPC Project

Contractor NTPC

Measures already taken by NTPC

Done

Plant is under construction Phase




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S. No.


Implementing Agency


season. Disposal of

sewage from project colony.

Commission-ing of

Biodigestor septic tank

NTPC

Biodigestor commissioned

4. TERRESTRIAL FLORA Construction

phase

Cutting of trees for meeting fuel wood requirements by labour.

Acquisition of

forest land.

Providing LPG to construction labour and technical staff.

Compensatory

afforestation.

Project Contractor/ NTPC

Forest &

Revenue Department/ NTPC

LPG Cylinders/Kerosene provided to labour

Fund released to

Forest Dept. for Compensatory afforestation.

5. TERRESTRIAL FAUNA Construction


Disturbance to wildlife due to operation of various construction equipment.

Impacts on

Singalila National Park due to increased accessibility in the area as a result of congregation of labour population.

No major wildlife is found, hence impact is not expected to be significant.

No major wildlife is

recorded at project site hence impact is not expected to be significant. However, surveillance through check posts is recommended to mitigate on the Sangalila National Park and Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary

NTPC/Forest Dept.

NTPC/Forest

Dept.

Wild Life Conservation plan prepared.

Wild Life

Conservation plan will be implemented.




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S. No.


Implementing Agency


6. AQUATIC ECOLOGY Construction


Marginal decrease in aquatic productivity due to increased turbidity and lesser light penetration.

Impacts on

migration of snow trout.

Drying of river

stretch downstream of barrage/dam up to tail race outfall

Treatment of effluent with high suspended solids through settling tanks

Stocking of river

Rammam upstream and downstream of barrage/dam site.

Release of

minimum flow of 1 cumec

NTPC/ Project Contractor

NTPC NTPC

Settling ponds already installed

Consultation

with fisheries dept will be done.

Will be done

during operation

7. NOISE ENVIRONMENT

Construction phase

Marginal increase in noise levels due to operation of various construction equipment.

Maintenance of construction equipment

Provision of ear plug /ear muff to labour operating in high noise areas

Project contractor

Noise monitoring at site has been done at site

PPE to labour provided.

8. AIR ENVIRONMENT

Construction phase

Fugitive emissions due to crusher operation at various sites.

Cyclone in each crusher.

Project contractor

Water sprinkling is being done

9. SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT




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S. No.


Implementing Agency


Construction phase

Acquisition of land and other properties.

Compensation as per R&R package.

NTPC and State Government of West Bengal and Sikkim

Land already acquired and R&R plan implemented.

10. Increased incidence of water-related diseases Construction


Increased water-borne diseases

Increase in

water-related diseases due to creation of suitable habitats for growth of vectors.

Provision of community toilets and bio-digestor septic tanks.

Medical check-up

of labour and development of medical facilities.

Spray of chemicals

to avoid growth of vectors

Project contractor/ NTPC

NTPC &

Public Health Department

Community toilets and bio-digestor septic tanks installed

Plant is under construction phase

10.18 NTPC’S ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

NTPC has a well laid Environment Policy and Environment Management System in

2021. A copy of NTPC Environment Policy (2021) document is enclosed as Annexure-

XXV. The intent of this policy is to meet environmental expectations and provide

actionable guidance, as NTPC strives to foster a culture of excellence and challenges

itself for continual improvement.

The NTPC Environment Policy statement is as follows. “To provide cleaner energy by committing to highest possible levels of performance in

environmental compliance, practices and stewardship.”

A Risk Management Committee comprises of members from senior functionaries of

management as per provisions of Companies Act, 2016 has been constituted to establish

system for reporting environment related parameters, deviations and constraints to

management. Environmental risks perceived are reviewed through risk management

mechanism for appropriate action.




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Concerned group oversee compliance assurance of operating stations through reviews

and appraisals.

NTPC continue to identify all stakeholders and engage with them at appropriate levels, to

exchange views on environmental concerns and mitigation measures thereof.

10.19 COST FOR IMPLEMENTING ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

The total amount cost for implementation of Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is

Rs. 3269.1 lakh (excluding cost required for cost of trees and NPV of forest land

acquired). The details are given in Table-10.5.

Table-10.5 Cost for implementing Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

S. No. Item Cost* (Rs. lakh) 1. Sanitary facilities in labour camps 41.0 2. Solid waste management 53.5 3. Provision for free fuel distribution 78.6 4. Environmental Management in road construction 99.0 5. Management of muck disposal sites 103.1 6. Landscaping and restoration of construction sites 20.0 7. Greenbelt development 15.0 8. Compensatory afforestation 15.9 9. Public Health Delivery System 250.0

10. Construction of settling tanks 20.0 11. Sustenance of riverine fisheries 65.0 12. Wildlife Conservation 83.7 13. Setting up Environmental Laboratory 30.0 14. Catchment Area Treatment Plan 320.8 15. Resettlement & Rehabilitation Plan including CD 1903.0 16. Cost of noise meter 0.5 17. Environmental Monitoring Programme during

construction phase (refer Table-9.2) 70.0

18. Contingencies 100.0 Total 3269.1




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The recurring cost for implementation of EMP included Environmental Monitoring cost,

Plantation, ETP/Sewage treatment, and salary of EMG Staff etc. The estimated budget

for recurring cost for EMP would be about 2 crores/year.

10.20 RESERVOIR RIM TREATMENT PLAN

As the Rammam HEPP stage-III is Run of River project and the storage capacity is

limited to 0.27 MCM, no large reservoir is envisaged. The submergence area is very

small (3.852 Ha) and it will not cause any land slide. However, the surrounding loose

rocks in water storage area of barrage will be dressed to prevent land slide, in future.

Plantation will be done in surrounding area of barrage to mitigate land slide and land slip.

CHAPTER – XI

SUMMARY & CONCLUSION




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CHAPTER-11

SUMMARY & CONCLUSION

11.0 INTRODUCTION

NTPC Limited is constructing Rammam Hydro Electric Power Project (HEPP), Stage III (3x40 MW) in Darjeeling District of West Bengal. The project is located on Rammam River, which flows along the border of West Bengal and Sikkim at about 50 km from Ghoom and 130 km from Siliguri on Siliguri-Darjeeling Road in District Darjeeling of West Bengal.

The site for diversion structure is located downstream at the confluence of Rammam with Lodhama khola near Lodhama village just downstream of the powerhouse of Rammam Stage-II hydroelectric project (51 MW under operation by West Bengal State Electricity Board). The site for powerhouse is located near village Barbatia on the right bank of River Rammam. All the major project components are located in the State of West Bengal except the right abutments of the Barrage structure and a portion of submergence area in Siktam Block of West Sikkim.

Earlier Ministry of Environment Forest & Climate Change (MOEF&CC) accorded the Environmental Clearance (EC) for project vide letter No. J-12011/42/2007-IA.I dated 17.08.2007 with a validity period of 10 years. Further, MOEF&CC vide its letter dated 13.07.2017, extended the validity of EC for a further period of 3 years i.e. up to 16.08.2020. MOEF&CC vide Notification dated 18.01.2021 (Copy enclosed at Annexure-I) has amended the EIA Notification, 2006 and made a provision that period from 01.04.2020 to the 31.03.2021 shall not be considered for the purpose of calculation of the period of validity of prior Environmental Clearance in view of outbreak of Corona Virus (COVID-19) and subsequent lockdowns. Hence, the Environment Clearance for Rammam HEPP is valid till 16.08.2021.

M/S SV Enviro Labs & Consultants a NABET-QCI Accredited firm has been entrusted to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in and around of the project site. The MoEF&CC approved the standard ToR for the proposed project vide F.No. J-




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12011/11/2020-IA-I (R) dated 12th February 2021. Environmental baseline monitoring was carried out during July’ 2020 to September’ 2020 representing monsoon season and used to identify potential significant impacts. Since the project is in advanced stage of construction and more than 50% has been completed, it is exempted from requirement of public hearing as per MoEF&CC Notification S.O. 1247(E) dated 18.03.2021.

11.1 LOCATION & ACCESSIBILITY

Rammam Hydro Power Project, Stage-III (3X40 MW) is located in District Darjeeling (West Bengal) & West Sikkim (Sikkim). It is a Run of the River (ROR) scheme utilizing power potential of Rammam River from elevation EL. 900.0 m to EL. 397.0 m. All the major project components are located in the State of West Bengal except the right abutments of the Barrage structure and a portion of submergence area in Siktam Block of West Sikkim. The Latitude and Longitude of the Diversion Structure and Barrage are given in Table-11.1.

The vicinity map and topographical map of the project is shown in Fig 11.1 and 11.2

respectively.

Table-11.1

Coordinates of Project Components

Project Component Latitude Longitude Diversion Structure 27°06'47" N 88°08'39" E Township 27°07'47" N 88°12'55" E Power House 27°07'25" N 88°13'20" E

The project is about 50 km from Ghoom (Siliguri-Darjeeling Road) and about 130 km from Siliguri in Darjeeling District of West Bengal. The nearest rail head is New Jalpaiguri (at about 115 km) and the nearest airport is Bagdogra (at about 110 km).




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Fig 11.1: Vicinity Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW)




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Fig 11.2: Topo Map of Rammam HEPP, Stage-III (3x40 MW)




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11.2 NEED OF THE PROJECT

As per the interstate agreement between Sikkim & West Bengal, the share of power of

the Sikkim Government (12%) will be made available to the Sikkim Government at free

of cost. The Rammam Stage-III Hydro Electric Power Project would not only meet the

power requirements, but would also improve the ratio of hydro, thermal mix as well.

11.3 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The project is envisaged to harness the hydropower potential of River Rammam. The

project comprises of diversion arrangement, desilting chamber, water conveyance system,

powerhouse and tailrace. Installed capacity of the project will be 120 MW and will utilize

a design discharge of 28.31 cumecs.

The project comprises of the following components:

Barrage/dam as a diversion structure

Intake tunnel

Underground desilting chamber

HRT (Head Race Tunnel)

Surge Shaft

Surface Penstock

Vertical Pressure Shaft

Power House

Tail Race Channel (TRC)

The project consists of 23 m high Barrage (above u/s apron level) 122.5m long Barrage

near Lodhama Village and approximately 10.75km of water conductor system (8.2 km

long 3.5m dia horse shoe shape head race tunnel, 1.6 km long Penstock and 0.74 km long

tailrace channel etc.). It has also a 14.5 m dia 53.75m high surge shaft and a deep seated

surface power house near Barbatia village on right bank of the Rammam River. The

project is envisaged to use water from catchment area of 247sq. km.




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Techno Economic Clearance (TEC) for the project has been obtained from Central

Electricity Authority (CEA), Govt. of India vide letter dated 12.09.2006 and revalidated

on 01.08.2013 and the construction of the project started in September 2014.

11.3.1 Project Cost

The project is in advance stage of construction and anticipated completion of its all three

units (i.e. I, II & III) is by December 2026.

Total Cost of the Project is:

As per EC: Rs. 633.92 Crores

As per Inv. Approval: Rs. 1,381.84 Crores (2nd Qtr, 2014)

11.3.2 Minimum water flow in the River


iv) A minimum flow of 1 cumec shall always be released from the barrage.

The minimum flow to be released is about 22% of the minimum flow of

4.47 cumec recorded in the river

The change in minimum flow as per Standard TOR at this stage shall drastically reduce

the power generation from the project and render the project commercially unviable.



(a) National Green Tribunal in its Order dated 09/08/2017 in the matter of Pushp

Saini Vs. Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change & Others regarding

environmental flow of the rivers directed that all the rivers in the country shall

maintain minimum 15 % to 20% of the average lean season flow of that river.

During the same case, counsel appearing for Ministry of Environment, Forest and

Climate Change submitted that the Ministry has already completed river basin




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study of 6 river basins i.e. Siang River Basin, Twang River Basin, Bichom River

Basin, Subansiri River Basin, Dibang River Basin and Lohit River Basin and

upon study the Ministry has recommended the minimum flow of the river to be

18% of the average of lean season flow of the river. However, in some of the

cases, it has stated to be even 20%.

(b) Further, MOEF&CC has also undertaken a Cumulative Impact Assessment and

Carrying Capacity Study (CIA & CCS) of Teesta River Basin. The minutes of

EAC (Hydro) meeting held on 23.04.2019, during which a presentation was made

on the CIA and CCS Study, it was noted that Rammam-II & Rammam-III are

under operation and construction stage respectively. The change in Environmental

Flow has been recommended for Rammam-I and Rammam Intermediate HEPs

only, which are under planning.

In view of the above, NTPC Rammam HEPP will maintain the minimum Environmental

flow of 1 cumecs as stipulated in the original environmental clearance.

11.4 BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS

The study of the baseline environmental status helps in assessing the existing

environmental conditions and identifying the critical environmental attributes. The study

of the physical, biological and socio-economic environment of the project area within a

radius of 10 km (study area) comprises of the baseline environment. Primary and

secondary data were collected for the EIA study.

11.4.1 Physical Environment

Climate and Meteorology

The study area falls under Humid Subtropical zone according to Koppen’s classification

of climate zones. Winter and early summer are long and dry; summer is exceedingly hot

leading to heat waves. The rainy season lasts from June to September. As per IMD data,

wind speed is high and found mostly between 1.5-3.3 m/sec for all the months. The wind




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speed during summer recorded is high, and during rainy season, and winter recorded low.

The predominant wind direction is from Southwest.

Air Quality

The ambient air quality representing PM10, PM2.5 Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Oxides

(NOx), Carbon Monoxide (CO) was monitored at seven different locations for 24 hours

twice a week from July’ 2020 to September’ 2020. Volatile Organic Carbons (VOCs),

Methane (CH4), non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs), Ozone, Ammonia, Lead (Pb),

Benzene (C6H6), Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), Arsenic (As), Nickel (Ni) were monitored for

the same period. All the parameters were found to be below the National Ambient Air

Quality Standards (NAAQS), 2009. The average 24 hourly PM10 at monitoring locations

ranged between 29.0-66.9 µg/m3 (NAAQS-100 µg/m3). The average 24 hourly PM2.5 at

monitoring locations ranged between 8.1-33.0 µg/m3 (NAAQS-60 µg/m3). The average

24 hourly SO2 at monitoring locations ranged between 6.8-13.1 µg/m3 (NAAQS-80

µg/m3). The average 24 hourly NOx at monitoring locations ranged between 7.2-14.6

µg/m3 (NAAQS-80 µg/m3). The average 24 hourly CO at monitoring locations ranged

between 0.10-0.30 µg/m3 (NAAQS-4.0 mg/m3). The average 24 hourly O3 at monitoring

locations ranged between 9.2-44.2 µg/m3 (NAAQS-180 µg/m3). Ammonia (NH3, Lead

(Pb), Benzene (C6H6), Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), Arsenic (As), Nickel (Ni), HC (methane

and non methane Hydro Carbon), Volatile Organic Carbon (VOC) - are remained below

detection limit (BDL) in the study area.

Noise Quality

The noise quality was monitored for 24 hours at seven locations in and around the project

site. The ambient noise quality at day and night was in compliance to the Noise Limits set

for the residential area as per Noise Pollution (Control and Regulations), 2000. The

daytime noise level was found in the range between 50.8-62.5 dB (A) whereas the night

time noise level was found in the range between 42.6-55.6 dB(A).




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Geology

Geologically, three important groups of rocks observed in the vicinity of the project area.

They are older Daling group, younger Gondwana group and older Daling/Buxa group. No

major occurrence of economic deposit has been found in the study area, except materials

like boulder, pebbles, sand that bears no economic mineral importance, being utilized as

construction material.

Hydrogeology

The major water bearing formations are Darjeeling, Daling and Gondwana groups where

ground water occurs in weathered zones, joints and fractures. The project area is

characterized by hilly terrain - it acts as a recharge area where surface runoff is very high,

has limited infiltration in the intermountain valleys. Ground water is harnessed using

perennial springs and jhoras. The discharge of most of the springs ranges from 1 to 50

lpm during lean period and a few jhorasi kholas give discharge in the range of 50 to 500

lpm. Piedmont zone with high permeability, sloping topography and sub-surface runoff is

characterised by poor to moderate yield ranging from 5 to 50 cum per hour. Aquifers in

alluvial plain are highly potential with yield prospects ranging from 50 to 150 cum per

hour. Aquifers at 200m below ground level with expected yield of 27 litres per second are

reported. Water level fluctuation is in the order of 2 to 6 m in the northern foot hill part

and less than 2m in the central and southern parts.

Groundwater Quality

Groundwater was collected and analyzed as per IS: 10500:2012 from six locations in the

study area. All the parameters analyzed were under the acceptable and permissible limit

of IS: 10500:2012. Heavy metals were found to be below detection limit.

Surface Water Quality

Surface water was sampled from six representative locations. The water samples were

analyzed and compared as per IS 2296. The pH of the surface water samples varied from

6.8-7.2. The DO levels at all the locations exhibited values ranging from 5.1-6.1 mg/l.




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Nitrate content of all collected surface water sample ranges from 0.14-0.31 mg/l. TDS

and Total hardness was found to be 71 mg/l to 86 mg/l and 24 mg/l to 36 mg/l

respectively. The total coliform count of the surface water samples varied between

440MPN/100 ml to 480MPN/100 ml. All the heavy metals were found to be within

below detectable limits. However, the water quality is not coming under any class

designated by CPCB Water Use Criteria, but during the field visit, it has been observed

that the water is being used for irrigation, bathing, cleaning and for catching fishes.

Land Use

The study area is covered with Dense Vegetation around 57.83% respectively of the total

area. Other class is Grass/Agricultural Fields occupies around 11.4%. The Contour

Farming & Fallow Lands is 5.60% in the total study area. The scrub area covers 20.83%

of the total area. The Barren land & Fallow lands cover about 3.61% of total area. Water

body and Built-up area is covered with 0.69% and 0.1% respectively.

Soil Quality

The pH of the soils is acidic in nature. The electrical conductivity in the study area is

varying from 52.3 to 62.9 micro-mhos/ cm (µmhos/cm). This is average for germination.

Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and organic Carbon are very less sufficient level for

crops. Residual soils are well developed on level summits of lesser Himalayas, sub-soils

are deep and heavily textured. High contents of organic matter are found in its `A’

horizon and are acidic in nature. The soils in the region are average fertile enough for

cultivation of crops.

Natural Hazards

Natural calamities like Flood, Landslide and Earthquake are expected. Heavy rainfall and

could burst can lead to flood resulting in heavy debris falling into the river channel. The

project falls in Zone IV (Severe intensity zone) of Earthquake vulnerability map.

Landslides are envisaged for supervision and advice on tunneling/ road construction

and/or any other vulnerable area of construction Geological Survey of India (GSI), is also




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associated with NTPC, Rammam, vide MoU dated 8th Feb’ 2015. Disaster management

plan has been prepared as an emergency preparedness measure to protect the life of the

employees and others present on-site, that of the public in the vicinity of the project,

company property and environment

11.4.2 Biological Environment

Baseline Survey (Primary data through site visit) and Secondary data received from

Forest Department’s Website and other published and unpublished document regarding

sensitive ecological habitat and sensitive flora and fauna in the study area. The study area

has an undulating topography characterized by hills, hillocks (Locally known as tillah),

wide plains, and low-lying waterlogged areas (locally known as beels). The vegetation is

mixed evergreen and deciduous forest and in this region, forests are degraded due to

development of Tea Estates and Rubber plantations.

11.4.3 Traffic Survey

During monsoon collection, mainly four wheelers/cars/jeeps were observed to be more

than the trucks or heavy vehicles. It is because tourists from all over India transport in the

region. Highest traffic volume was recorded on Jorthang-Soreng road. The road widths in

the region vary from 6-10m as it is a hilly terrain. Most of the roads are blacktop; there

would not be much of dust emission. Considering the design service volume of 5200

PCU/day for hilly terrain road, the existing traffic volume at the point of traffic count is

found to be level of service (LOS) is “A”.

11.4.4 Socioeconomic Environment

The Social Impact Assessment study was conducted within the study area of Rammam

HEPP Stage-III Run of River (ROR) in Darjeeling and Sikkim districts of West Bengal

and Sikkim. Both, secondary and primary details within the study area discussed. It is

traditionally involved the use of technical and participatory analytical methods to

anticipate change but also encouraging the life cycle of projects to minimize negative

outcomes and maximize benefits. The early consideration of social impacts, the

alignment of activities with regional and community planning objectives, and meaningful




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participation of community in decision making are key features. Apart from the SIA

process and findings it can be concluded that most the respondents have positive

perception towards implementation of the project.

11.5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND MITIGATION MEASURES

The potential impacts of the project on different components of the environment was

systematically identified and evaluated for significance. The principal concerns that

emerged are:

11.5.1 Impact on land environment

Construction phase

The major impacts anticipated on land environment are as follows:


Soil erosion

Muck disposal

Impacts due to construction of roads

Acquisition of land

Mitigation measures

Turbidity return to its original level after cessation of sandy materials excavation.

Construction equipment is selected in such a way that causes minimum adverse

impacts on environmental parameters.

The running velocity of river is enough to dilute effluents/runoff carrying suspended

solids.

Water sprinkling during construction of roads.

Operation Phase

The operation phase is likely to envisage impacts on the land use pattern due to diversion

of forest land for non-forest purposes i.e., for construction and widening of roads,




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installation of surface components both upstream and downstream stretch of the river.

Necessary management measures are considered.

11.5.2 Impact on Air Quality

Construction Phase

The air pollution is basically generated due to primary crushing and fugitive dust from

the heap of crushed material. The various crushers provided with cyclones to control the

dust generated while crushing the stone aggregates. The fine aggregates stacked after

crushing are regularly sprayed with water to prevent fugitive emissions.

In addition, fugitive emissions are generated as a result of movement of earth movers,

vehicular traffic on unpaved roads, etc. The activities will generate large quantity of dust

and other gaseous pollutants like Oxides of Sulphur (SOx) and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx).

Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) is the main pollutant during construction phase,

released in the form of fugitive dust from various operations and activities. Regular spray

water over such areas to prevent entrainment of fugitive emissions being followed.

Mitigation measures

Activities are being planned in such a way that dust emissions and other gaseous

pollutants will be minimized.

Regular water sprinkling on haul roads and other places

Construction materials and muck for disposal are transported in covered trucks to

prevent fugitive emissions like dust etc. in the atmosphere.

Regular maintenance of machines, vehicles and equipments

Developing greenbelt around the project components

Operation Phase

Since the project is a Run of River (ROR) scheme and does not involve major air

emissions during operation phase, therefore, it will have minimum negative impact on the

air quality of the region.




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11.5.3 Impact on Noise Quality

Potential impact on noise quality is anticipated from operation of construction/site

preparation machineries/equipments and vehicular movement during site preparatory

activities. Operation of heavy machinery/equipments and vehicular movement during site

preparatory and road strengthening/construction activities may result in the generation of

increased noise levels. Operational phase noise impacts are anticipated from operation of

pump house.

Mitigation measures

Storage, handling, transportation and operation of explosives required for blasting

and tunneling activities

Underground construction work including tunneling, excavation and other related

activities

Movement of vehicles on construction site

Storage, handling, detection and safety measures for gases, chemicals and

flammable liquids

11.5.4 Impact on Topography and drainage

In general, drainage pattern of the area is in conformity with the topography, which area

structurally controlled. Potential impact on drainage and topography viz. alteration of

drainage pattern, water logging etc. are anticipated during site preparation,

widening/strengthening of access roads and surface runoff from construction sites.

Mitigation measures

Leveling and grading operations are undertaken with minimal disturbance to the

existing contour, thereby maintaining the general slope of site;

Loss of micro-watershed drainage, if any, is to be compensated through provision

of alternate drainage.

Disruption/alteration of micro-watershed drainage pattern will be minimized to

the extent possible.




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Proper engineering control has been employed as mitigation measures so that the flow

and the course of the stream will not be altered.

11.5.5 Impact on Water Quality

Construction Phase

The major sources of surface and ground water contamination during project construction

phase are as follows:

Sewage from labour camps/colonies.

Effluent from crushers.

Impacts due to extraction of fine sand from riverbed

Impact on Ground water

Mitigation measures

Drainage and sediment control systems at the well site will be efficiently designed.

The sewage generated from various labour camps is being treated in Biodigestor

septic tank.

The crusher plant effluent is being passed through settling tank to remove the

suspended solids.

The sludge from the various settling tanks collected once in 15 days and disposed at

the site designed for disposal of municipal solid wastes from the labour camps.

The sludge after drying used as cover material for landfill disposal site

Operation phase

In the project operation phase, about 50 persons are likely to be involved for which

township has already been developed. Township with amenities like water supply and

sanitation facilities including biodigester of total capacity 98 KL.

11.5.6 Impact on Biological Environment

Impact on the ecology will be mainly confined to study area.

Cutting of trees for meeting fuel wood requirements by labour.

Acquisition of forest land.

Disturbance to wildlife due to operation of various construction equipment.




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Marginal decrease in aquatic productivity due to increased turbidity and lesser light

penetration.

Impacts on migration of snow trout.

Drying of river stretch downstream of barrage/dam up to tail race outfall.

Marginal decrease in aquatic productivity due to increased turbidity and lesser light

penetration.

Impacts on migration of snow trout.

Drying of river stretch downstream of barrage/dam up to tail race outfall

Mitigation measures

Providing LPG to construction labour and technical staff.

Compensatory afforestation.

Minimum clearance of vegetation during site preparation

Fencing would be done on the camp site to avoid any unfortunate encounter with

faunal species.

No major wildlife is found, hence impact is not expected to be significant.

Treatment of effluent with high suspended solids through settling tanks

Stocking of river Rammam upstream and downstream of barrage/dam site.

Release of minimum flow of 1 Cumec

11.5.7 Impact on Socio economic Environment

From The socio-economic profiles It is observed that a subsistence economy prevails

amongst most of the people. Most of them are primarily dependent upon agriculture.

However, a few of families to augment their income through / are dependent on jobs and

business. There is some migration of labor force from outside the project area during

construction phase, which may put some pressure on local settlements and resources. The

project envisages all round development and growth in the region as a whole. However,

few local people were affected in the form of acquisition of their land. Members of

families were provided with R&R package as per NPRR-2003.




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The project will benefit the people living in the neighboring villages through direct &

indirect employment opportunities associated with the various project activities and

boosts the local economy.

Mitigation measures

Construction/ site preparation phase could lead to creation of indirect employment

and procurement opportunities.

Compensation as per R&R package.

There would be influx of workers during construction phase/site preparation which

could lead to pressure on key local infrastructure such as water, healthcare,

electricity.

11.6 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

The Public Hearing of M/s. NTPC Limited was organized by West Bengal Pollution

Control Board (WBPCB) on 27.04.2007 at 11:30 AM at Community Hall/Recreation

Hall at Lodhama Hat, West Bengal State Electricity Board Township, Dist. - Darjeeling,

West Bengal. v State Pollution Control Board, Sikkim on, organized the Public Hearing

of M/s. NTPC Limited on 04.05.2007 at Zero Point, Salangdang, West Sikkim, Sikkim.

As per MOEF&CC Notification S.O. 1247(E) dated 18.03.2021, Public Hearing is not

essential for the projects, in which construction have been undertaken more than 50%.

About 55% expenditure has been made on Rammam HEPP Stage-III till date and project

is in advance stage of construction, therefore, the project is exempted from conducting

Public Hearing again.

11.7 RISK ASSESSMENT PLAN and DISASTER MANAGEMENT PLAN

This plan has been prepared to assess risk and emergencies scenario associated with

project and as an emergency preparedness measure to protect the life of the employees

and others present on-site, that of the public in the vicinity of the project, company

property and environment. The major risks are two category- Natural Calamities (Flood




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Landslide and Earthquake), Manmade Risk (Fire and Explosion) The plan defines roles

& responsibilities of persons at different levels in the event of emergency in the sites of

the company.

11.8 CATCHMENT AREA TREATMENT PLAN


structure of the barrage site has been prepared as a part of the Comprehensive EIA study.

Catchment characteristics in terms of physiography, geomorphology, climate, land use,

soil, denudation processes and conservational activities gained much importance to find

out stress areas yielding higher sediments on micro-watershed basis.

The CAT plan is being implemented through State Forest Department as a deposit work

of respective states of West Bengal & Sikkim. NTPC has deposited Rs. 7.23 Crores in

favor of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, West Bengal as part of proposal for


1.459 Crores in favor of PCCF cum Principal Secretary, Govt. of Sikkim as part of

proposal for implementation of CAT Plan for Rammam Stage-III project.

11.9 PROJECT BENEFITS

The implementation of the Rammam Hydro Electric Power Project (HEPP) Stage-III will

provide impetus to the development of the area and also provide green energy i.e. hydro-

electric power. The project will also throw opportunities to local people for both direct

and indirect employment. Various infrastructure like roads, bridges, schools buildings,

community center has been developed by project. Various welfare and development

activities shall be implemented as per CD/CER/CSR plan.

11.10 ENVIRONMENT COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS

Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) simply compares all the expected present and future

benefits of a project with its present and future costs. It is a tool used either to rank

projects or to choose the most appropriate option. The ranking or decision is based on




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expected economic costs and benefits. However, as the project is already under advance

stage of construction, after accord of Techno-economic clearance, the cost benefit is

already establsished and the completion of the project is essential.

11.11 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN AND MONITORING PLAN

M/s NTPC Ltd has formulated an Environment Policy and Safety Policy for its

operations. Through these Policy, M/s NTPC Ltd. is committed to protect the

Environment, health and safety of everyone involved in its operations, and the

sustainability of the environment in which it operates. The company strives for continual

improvement and the adoption of national/international codes and standards and also

aims at ensuring that all its operations comply with applicable health, safety and

environmental laws, regulations and other requirements.

A comprehensive environmental monitoring plan has been developed for the project.

Monitoring of ambient air quality, noise levels, soil and groundwater quality to be carried

out by MoEF&CC/NABL/SPCB recognized laboratories during construction and

operation phases.

11.11.1 Greenbelt Development

It is proposed to develop greenbelt/Plantation at all available spaces of project

components, roads and nearby area. Till date 11000 saplings has been planted in project

area as well as in nearby villages. About Rs. 15 lakhs have been kept in EMP budget for

green belt development and plantation.

11.11.2 Compensatory Afforestation

About 1.927 Ha forest land has been diverted for project. The loss of vegetal cover can be

compensated by compensatory afforestation. NTPC has paid the amount estimated by the

Forest Department as Net Present Value (NPV) of forest land acquired. NTPC has

deposited Rs. 7.28 Crores in favor of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, West




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Bengal as part of proposal for implementation of CAT Plan for Rammam Stage-III

project. NTPC has deposited Rs. 1.46 Crores in favour of PCCF cum Principal Secretary,

Govt. of Sikkim as part of proposal for implementation of CAT Plan for Rammam Stage-

III project.

11.11.3 Biodiversity and Wildlife Conservation Plan and Management

NTPC has become the first PSU to publish a Biodiversity Policy 2018 and become a

member of IBBI (India Business and Biodiversity Initiative). A detailed biodiversity

conservation and management plan has been proposed as per said policy. NTPC will

make efforts to conserve IUCN Threatened category plants species. A Wildlife

Conservation Plan has been prepared for Schedule-I species recorded in Study area and

same will be submitted to State Forest department for approval.

11.11.4 Fish Management Plan

A minimum environmental flow will be maintained for sustaining the life of fishes. The

implementation of fish management plan including construction of a hatchery has been

taken up with fisheries department, Govt. of West Bengal as well as with the

Fisheries Department of Sikkim. Comprehensive Fish Management Plan is awaited from

Govt. of W.B.

11.11.5 Implementation of Environmental Management Plan


headed by AGM level and assisted by Sr. Manager has been established by the Rammam

HEPP. The total amount cost for implementation of Environmental Management Plan

(EMP) is Rs. 3269.1 lakh (excluding cost required for cost of trees and NPV of forest

land acquired). The estimated budget for recurring cost for EMP is about 2 crores/year. In

addition, the CER/ CD activities planned for the year 2021-2024 are as follows:




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Proposed CER/CD Activities for 2021-2024 S.No. Activity Proposed Budget

(Rs. In Lakhs) 1. Education Facility 200 2. Health and medical services 200 3. Providing other infrastructure facility 120 4. Training/Self employment/Skill development 180 5. Providing Drinking water facility 100 6. Sponsoring local sports/Cultural programme 150 Total 950

11.12 DISCLOSURES OF CONSULTANTS

NTPC Ltd. has appointed M/s. SV Enviro Labs & Consultants, Visakhapatnam for

carrying out this Environmental Impact Assessment study as per the EIA Notification,

2006 as amended till date. This EIA consultant is accriditated with QCI/NABET for

carrying out EIA Study for Category ‘A’ Hydropower project and other sectors.

11.13 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The proposed project has certain level of marginal impacts on the local environment.

However, the proposed project has significant beneficial impact/effects in terms of local

economy, increase availability of power, providing the employment opportunities and

various CER practices. Project Proponant has taken various measures to mitigate

environmental impact during construction phase. For operation phase, measures

suggested in EMP shall be implemented.

The conclusions of EIA are:

• The proposed project meets the compliance requirements of various environmental

regulations.

• Adoption of environmental friendly Best Management Practices results in minimising

the impacts on environment.




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• Due to land acquisition, PAPs has impacted which has been compensated

satisfactorily with approved R&R Plan. Overall Community impacts of the project

will be beneficial, as the project will generate significant economic benefits for the

region.

• As the project is under advance stage of construction, NTPC has demonstrate its

commitment towards local community and Environmental protection.

• With the effective implementation of the Environment Management Plan (EMP)

during the planning, design, construction and operation phases, the development and

construction of project can proceed without significant negative impact on the

environment.

CHAPTER –XII

DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS




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CHAPTER-12

DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS

12.0 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANT ENGAGED

NTPC Ltd. has appointed M/s. SV Enviro Labs & Consultants, Visakhapatnam for carrying

out this Environmental Impact Assessment study as per the EIA Notification, 2006 as

amended till date. SV Enviro Labs & Consultants has approved EIA coordinators and

Functional Area Experts for undertaking Environmental and related studies in Eleven (11)

approved sectors including Hydropower by NABET, Quality Council of India, New Delhi.

12.1 About SV Enviro Labs & Consultants (SVELC):

SV ENVIRO LABS & CONSULTANTS pioneered its way in the mid 90’s in Yanam, the

evergreen Union Territory, to provide the quality services in the area of environmental

pollution. The laboratory serves have been set up in an extent of 7500 sq.ft in the city of

destiny Visakhapatnam to provide analytical expertise in the field of Environmental

Engineering. Our technical expertise is one among the best in the country, providing

economical & sound environmental and safety solutions.

SVELC is an ISO 9001:2015 company and is accredited by:

ISO 9001:2015

ISO 14001: 2004

Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MOEF&CC), Govt. of

India, New Delhi

National Accreditation Board for Education & Training (NABET) registered

Environmental consultants by Quality Council of India (QCI).

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

(NABL) in the field of testing

OSHAS 18001: 2007




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12.2 SERVICES OFFERED BY SV ENVIRO

Environmental:

Environmental Impact Assessments

Environmental Management Plan

Environmental Audits preparation

Solid and hazardous waste management

Risk assessment and disaster management plans

Occupational health and safety studies

Socio-economic studies

Marine impact assessment

Rehabilitation and resettlement studies

Analysis:

Environmental monitoring for air, water, soil, noise, ecology, hazardous waste, etc.

Industrial emission source monitoring

Offshore sampling and analysis of marine water and sediments

Analysis of water, wastewater, soil, solid waste, hazardous waste, lube oils, etc.

Noise quality monitoring

Work zone source emission analysis

The firm has been engaged in the work of Environmental Impact Assessment studies for

category – A & B projects, preparation of Environmental management plans (EMP) for the

past 20 years for obtaining clearance from Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate

Change.




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List of Experts involved in the study:

S.No Name of the Expert Expertise Signature

1. Dr. G.V.A Ramakrishna EIA Coordinator

Geology (GEO)

Hydrology, ground water and

water conservation (HG)

Land use (LU)

2. M. Murali Krishna

Air pollution monitoring,

prevention and control (AP)

Meteorology, air quality

modelling and prediction (AQ)

Noise and Vibration (NV)

3. V. Hema Latha Water pollution monitoring,

prevention and control (WP)

4. K. Anitha Solid and hazardous waste

management (SHW)

5. Dr. B. Vijay Bhaskara Rao Socio-economics (SE)

6. Dr. M. Tarakeswara Naidu Ecology and biodiversity (EB)

7. D. Sunder Rao Soil Conservation (SC)

8. Shaik Kasim Risk Assessment and Hazards

Management (RH)




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Fig: 12.1 – NABET Certificate




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Fig: 12.2 – NABET Validity Extension Certificate




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Fig 12.3 NABL Certificate

NTPC Limited - Environmental Clearance

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