Rajapur Iron Ore Mine - Karnataka State Pollution Control Board

0

Rajapur Iron Ore Mine Of Smt. K.M. Parvathamma, Bellary at ML.No. 2514, Rajapur Village,

Sandur Taluk, Bellary District, Karnataka, India

(43000 TPA-24.82 Ha. Iron Ore Production Capacity)

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AND

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN

Prepared by:

Ecomen Laboratories Pvt. Ltd.,

MoEF & CC Approved, NABET & NABL Accredited Consultancy

First Floor, Sy. No. 91/A, Ward No. 7, MCHS Jakkur Layout,

Jakkur, Banglore-560064, Karnataka.

Ph. No. +91-080 2953368

1

LIST OF CONTENTS

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................ 1

1.1 Purpose of the Report ...................................................................... 1

1.2 Identification of Project .................................................................... 2

1.2.1 Project Proponent ...................................................................... 2

1.3 Brief Description of Nature, Size, and Location of the Project ........... 2

1.4 Importance to the Country & Region ................................................ 2

1.5 Brief History of Project ..................................................................... 3

1.5.1 Details of Mining Lease .............................................................. 4

1.5.2 Mining Plan ............................................................................... 4

1.5.3 Forest Clearance ........................................................................ 4

1.6 Scope of the study - details of regulatory scoping carried out (as per terms of

reference): ............................................................................................. 4

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION .......................................................................... 5

2.1 Type of the Project ........................................................................... 5

2.2 Need of the Project ........................................................................... 6

2.3 Location .......................................................................................... 7

2.4 Size or Magnitude of Operation ........................................................ 8

2.4.1 Mining Operations ..................................................................... 9

2.4.2 Exploration .............................................................................. 10

2.4.3 Production Details ................................................................... 11

2.5 Proposed schedule for approval and implementation ...................... 11

2.6 Technology and Process Description .............................................. 12

2.6.1 Method of Mining ..................................................................... 12

2.6.2 Drilling .................................................................................... 15

2.6.3 Blasting ................................................................................... 15

2.6.4 Haulage & Transportation for Ore & Waste .............................. 16

2.6.5 Crushing and Screening ........................................................... 17

2.6.6 Stacking, Wagon Loading & Transportation .............................. 17

2.6.7 Recovery and Grade ................................................................. 17

2.6.8 Energy ..................................................................................... 17

2.7 Project Description ........................................................................ 18

2.7.1 Topography .............................................................................. 18

2.7.2 Drainage Pattern ...................................................................... 18

2.7.3 Geology .................................................................................... 18

2

2.7.4 Waste Generation .................................................................... 21

2.7.5 Utilities .................................................................................... 22

2.8 Description of Mitigation Measures Incorporated to meet the Environmental

Standards ........................................................................................... 23

2.8.1 Air Pollution Mitigate Measures ................................................ 23

2.8.2 Water Pollution Mitigative Measures ........................................ 24

2.8.3 Noise pollution mitigative measures ......................................... 24

2.8.4 Solid Waste Management ......................................................... 24

2.8.5 Energy Efficiency measures ..................................................... 24

2.9 Assessment of New & Untested Technology for the risk of Technological Failure

24

3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT.......................................... 25

3.1 Study Description .......................................................................... 25

3.1.1 Study Period ............................................................................ 25

3.1.2 Study Components .................................................................. 25

3.2 General Climatic Condition (Secondary data) ................................. 26

3.2.1 Climate .................................................................................... 26

3.2.2 Temperature, Relative Humidity and Rainfall ........................... 26

3.2.3 Wind ........................................................................................ 26

3.2.4 Baseline Data .......................................................................... 27

3.3 Selection of Sampling Stations ....................................................... 27

3.3.1 Micro-Meteorological Station .................................................... 27

3.3.2 Ambient Air Quality Locations .................................................. 28

3.3.3 Water Quality Locations ........................................................... 30

3.3.4 Noise Monitoring Locations: ..................................................... 33

3.3.5 Soil Quality Locations: ............................................................. 35

3.4 Sampling Procedure ....................................................................... 37

3.4.1 Micro Meteorological Monitoring ............................................... 37

3.4.2 Ambient Air Monitoring ............................................................ 37

3.4.3 Water Quality Monitoring ......................................................... 38

3.4.4 Ambient Noise Level ................................................................. 38

3.4.5 Soil Quality .............................................................................. 39

3.5 Data Analysis ................................................................................ 40

3.5.1 Meteorological Study ................................................................ 40

3.5.2 Ambient Air Quality ................................................................. 42

3.5.3 Water Quality .......................................................................... 45

3.5.4 Noise ....................................................................................... 48

3.5.5 Ambient Noise Level ................................................................. 48

3

3.5.6 Soil Quality .............................................................................. 49

3.6 Socio-Economic Scenario ............................................................... 50

3.6.1 Demographic Features of Study Area-Rural .............................. 50

3.7 Flora and Fauna ............................................................................ 55

3.7.1 Scope ....................................................................................... 55

3.7.2 Activities Undertaken During the Study ................................... 55

3.7.3 Survey Limitation .................................................................... 56

3.7.4 Approach of the Study ............................................................. 56

3.7.5 Methodology ............................................................................ 56

3.7.6 Sampling Stations .................................................................... 58

3.7.7 Habitat and Forest Type Diversity ............................................ 60

3.7.8 Flora of project site .................................................................. 61

3.7.9 Flora of Study area .................................................................. 65

3.7.10 Faunal Diversity in Core and Buffer Zone ................................. 72

3.8 Land use ....................................................................................... 76

3.8.1 Introduction ............................................................................. 76

3.8.2 Data Input ............................................................................... 77

3.8.3 Land use planning of the project site ........................................ 81

4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & MITIGATION MEASURES 85

4.1 Introduction .................................................................................. 85

4.2 Anticipated Environmental Impacts ............................................... 85

4.2.1 Topography .............................................................................. 85

4.2.2 Land use .................................................................................. 86

4.2.3 Top Soil ................................................................................... 87

4.2.4 Drainage .................................................................................. 87

4.2.5 Air Environment ...................................................................... 88

4.2.6 Meteorological Conditions Used in Predictions .......................... 90

4.2.7 Atmospheric Stability ............................................................... 91

4.2.8 Extrapolation of Wind Speed .................................................... 91

4.2.9 Ambient air quality and background concentrations ................ 92

4.3 Plan and frame work of computations: ........................................... 92

4.3.1 Selection of locations: .............................................................. 92

4.3.2 Plan of computation ................................................................. 92

4.4 Results and Discussions ................................................................ 93

4.4.1 Noise & Vibration ..................................................................... 93

4.4.2 Water Environment .................................................................. 94

4.4.3 Ground water .......................................................................... 95

4

4.4.4 Soil Quality .............................................................................. 95

4.4.5 Waste generation ..................................................................... 95

4.4.6 Flora and fauna ....................................................................... 96

4.4.7 Socio-economic conditions ....................................................... 97

4.4.8 Impact due to the possible Accident ......................................... 97

4.4.9 Impact due to the Construction activities ................................. 97

4.4.10 Impact due to the final decommissioning or rehabilitation ........ 98

4.5 Mitigation Measures ...................................................................... 98

4.5.1 General Views .......................................................................... 98

4.5.2 Topography .............................................................................. 98

4.5.3 Land Use ................................................................................. 98

4.5.4 Top Soil ................................................................................... 99

4.5.5 Drainage .................................................................................. 99

4.5.6 Air Environment ...................................................................... 99

4.5.7 Noise and Vibration ............................................................... 101

4.5.8 Water Environment ................................................................ 102

4.5.9 Details of engineering measures are being undertaken as per R & R plan

103

4.5.10 Soil Quality ............................................................................ 104

4.5.11 Waste Management ................................................................ 105

4.5.12 Reclamation & Rehabilitation of mined out areas ................... 107

4.5.13 Green-belt Development Programme ...................................... 109

4.5.14 Proposed Green-belt development Programme ........................ 110

4.5.15 Socio-economic conditions ..................................................... 113

4.5.16 Management plan for the possible Accident ............................ 114

4.5.17 Management plan for impact due to the construction activities114

4.5.18 Management Plan for the Impact due to the final decommissioning or

rehabilitation..................................................................................... 114

4.5.19 Power (energy) conservation ................................................... 114

5 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES (TECHNOLOGY & SITE) ......... 115

5.1 Analysis of Alternative Technology ............................................... 115

5.2 Analysis of Alternative Site .......................................................... 115

6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM........................... 116

6.1 Environmental Monitoring ........................................................... 116

6.1.1 Meteorological Monitoring ...................................................... 117

6.1.2 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring .............................................. 117

6.1.3 Fugitive Dust ......................................................................... 117

6.1.4 Water Quality Monitoring ....................................................... 117

5

6.1.5 Ambient Noise Levels ............................................................. 118

6.1.6 Work Zone Noise Level ........................................................... 118

6.1.7 Ground Vibrations Monitoring ............................................... 118

6.1.8 Soil Sampling ......................................................................... 118

6.2 Monitoring Methods and Data Analysis ........................................ 120

6.2.1 Air Quality Monitoring ........................................................... 120

6.2.2 Water Quality Monitoring ....................................................... 121

6.2.3 Noise Levels ........................................................................... 121

6.2.4 Cost towards environment management ................................. 121

7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES ....................................................................... 123

7.1 Public Hearing ............................................................................. 123

7.2 Risk Assessment.......................................................................... 123

7.3 Scope of Study ............................................................................. 124

7.3.1 Risk Assessment .................................................................... 124

7.3.2 Disaster due to surface fire .................................................... 124

7.3.3 Disaster due to failure of waste dump .................................... 125

7.3.4 Disaster due to failure of PIT slope ......................................... 125

7.3.5 Damage due to lubricant and HSD storage chambers/tankers125

7.3.6 Emergency Control Centres .................................................... 126

7.3.7 Action on site ......................................................................... 126

7.3.8 Post disaster analysis and evaluation ..................................... 127

7.3.9 Emergency services ................................................................ 127

7.3.10 Off-site emergency plan ......................................................... 128

8 PROJECT BENEFITS ............................................................................... 130

8.1 Improvement in the Physical & Social Infrastructure.................... 130

8.2 Corporate Social Responsibility .................................................... 130

8.2.1 Corporate Social Policy .......................................................... 130

8.3 Employment Generation .............................................................. 130

8.4 Services to be Rendered to Surrounding Villages / Towns ............ 131

8.4.1 Infrastructure ........................................................................ 131

8.4.2 Health / Disease Control Measures ........................................ 131

8.4.3 Public Health Amenities ......................................................... 131

8.5 CSR Expenditure ......................................................................... 131

9 ENVIRONMENTAL COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS ........................... 133

10 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ................................... 134

10.1 Environmental Policy ............................................................. 134

10.2 Environment Management System ......................................... 134

6

10.3 Administrative Aspects and Environmental Monitoring Program135

10.4 Institutional Arrangements for Environment Protection and Conservation

135

10.5 Implementation of the Environmental Measures ..................... 138

10.6 Budget for Implementation of Environmental Management Plan138

11 SUMMARY & CONCLUSION .............................................................. 139

11.1 Introduction ........................................................................... 139

11.2 Project Description ................................................................. 139

11.3 Resource Requirement: .......................................................... 141

11.4 Baseline Environmental Status: ............................................. 142

11.4.1 Meteorology ........................................................................... 142

11.5 Ambient Air Quality ............................................................... 143

11.5.1 Water Quality ........................................................................ 143

11.5.2 Noise Levels ........................................................................... 144

11.5.3 Soil Quality ............................................................................ 144

11.5.4 Land Use ............................................................................... 144

11.5.5 Ecological Environment ......................................................... 144

11.5.6 Social Environment ................................................................ 145

11.6 Summary of Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation145

11.7 Disaster Management Plan .................................................... 151

11.8 Project Benefits ...................................................................... 151

11.9 Environmental Management Plan ........................................... 152

11.10 Reclamation and Rehabilitation of mined out areas ............. 152

11.11 Conclusion .......................................................................... 152

12 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS ENGAGED ............................. 153

0

LIST OF TABLES

1. Table 2-1 Salient Features of RAJAPUR IRON ORE MINE ......................................................... 5

2. Table 2-2 Details of coordinates .............................................................................................. 7

3. Table 2-3 List of equipment deployed for mining ...................................................................... 9

4. Table 2-4 Balance reserves as on 1.4.2021 ............................................................................ 10

5. Table 2-5 Proposed production .............................................................................................. 11

6. Table 2-6 Fleet of Equipment & Machineries loading equipment ............................................. 16

7. Table 2-7 Expected grade ...................................................................................................... 17

8. Table 2-8 The land use pattern of the mine area at present and Conceptual period ................. 20

9. Table 2-9 proposed waste generation (Tonnes) ....................................................................... 21

10. Table 3-1 Showing Attributes and study parameters .............................................................. 25

11. Table 3-2 showing the Monthly averages micro-meteorological data ........................................ 28

12. Table 3-3 Details of the Ambient Air Quality monitoring locations .......................................... 28

13. Table 3-4 Details of the water sample monitoring locations .................................................... 30

14. Table 3-5 Details of the Noise monitoring locations ................................................................ 33

15. Table 3-6 Details of the Soil monitoring locations ................................................................... 35

16. Table 3-7 Ambient noise level monitoring ............................................................................... 38

17. Table 3-8 Maximum &Minimum Temperature, Relative Humidity (%) & Rainfall (mm) ............. 41

18. Table 3-9 Ambient Air Quality Results Maximum & Minimum Values ..................................... 42

19. Table 3-10 Ground water Quality Results .............................................................................. 46

20. Table 3-11 Surface water Quality Results .............................................................................. 47

21. Table 3-12 Noise levels results of the study area .................................................................... 48

22. Table 3-13 Soil quality monitoring Result .............................................................................. 49

23. Table 3-14 Showing the List of villages with the population .................................................... 50

24. Table 3-15 demographic features as per the census 2011 ....................................................... 54

25. Table 3-16 Sampling Locations of the Study area ................................................................... 58

26. Table 3-17 Checklist of trees recorded at the project site ........................................................ 62

27. Table 3-18 girth distribution of trees at project site ................................................................ 63

28. Table 3-19 basal area and carbon sequestration of tree species at project site ....................... 63

29. Table 3-20 Checklists of herbs, shrubs and climbers at project site ....................................... 64

30. Table 3-21 checklist of trees recorded at study area ............................................................... 67

31. Table 3-22 girth distribution of trees at study area ................................................................. 68

32. Table 3-23 basal area and carbon sequestration of tree species at study area ......................... 68

33. Table 3-24 phyto sociological parameters of trees at study area .............................................. 69

34. Table 3-25 checklist of herbs, shrubs and climbers ................................................................ 70

35. Table 3-26 Fauna Diversity in Core Zone (Primary Source) ..................................................... 72

36. Table 3-27 Fauna Diversity in Buffer Zone (Based on Primary Source) .................................... 74

37. Table 3-28 Major land use/land cover categories of study area ............................................... 79

38. Table 3-29 Land use planning of the proposed site ................................................................. 81

1

39. Table 3-30 Proposed Land use pattern-Plan period & Conceptual stage .................................. 81

40. Table 4-1 Land use planning of the proposed site ................................................................... 86

41. Table 4-2 Proposed Land use pattern-Plan period & Conceptual stage .................................... 86

42. Table 4-3 Emission Sources .................................................................................................. 89

43. Table 4-4 Emission rates from DG sets and dust extraction system ........................................ 90

44. Table 4-5 Pasquill – Gifford Stability Classification ................................................................. 91

45. Table 4-6 Ambient air quality standards by CPCB .................................................................. 92

46. Table 4-7 The air quality parameters of the study area ........................................................... 92

47. Table 4-8 Waste generation ................................................................................................... 96

48. Table 4-9 Surrounding Mines of Rajapura iron ore mine ...................................................... 100

49. Table 4-10 Measures carried out as R&R plan ..................................................................... 103

50. Table 4-11 Details of Dumps in Block - I .............................................................................. 105

51. Table 4-12 Details of year wise dumping proposals .............................................................. 106

52. Table 4-13 Area for afforestation proposed for the 5-year plan period ................................... 110

53. Table 4-14 Grasses and Bamboo species ............................................................................. 111

54. Table 4-15 Species Recommended for broadcasting.............................................................. 112

55. Table 4-16 Initiatives by K.M.Parvatamma towards public health ......................................... 113

56. Table 6-1 Monitoring Schedule for Environmental Parameters .............................................. 118

57. Table 6-2 Duration of noise level measurement .................................................................... 121

58. Table 6-3 Capital cost towards Environment management ................................................... 122

59. Table 8-1 Details of Proposed Manpower (permanent / contractual / indirect) ...................... 131

60. Table 8-2 Proposed CSR Budget .......................................................................................... 131

61. Table 11-1 Salient Features of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine ........................................................ 140

62. Table 11-2 Land use pattern-existing & proposed (Conceptual stage) .................................... 141

63. Table 11-3 Ambient air quality levels ................................................................................... 143

64. Table 11-4 Major land use/ Land cover categories ............................................................... 144

65. Table 11-5 Environmental impacts and mitigation ............................................................... 146

LIST OF FIGURES

66. Figure 2-1 Location map of the project site .............................................................................. 8

67. Figure 3-1 Wind rose diagram of the study period .................................................................. 27

68. Figure 3-2 Google map showing the air quality monitoring locations...................................... 29

69. Figure 3-3 Google map showing the ground and surface water monitoring locations ............. 32

70. Figure 3-4 Google map showing the noise monitoring locations .............................................. 34

71. Figure 3-5 Google map showing the soil monitoring locations ................................................. 36

72. Figure 3-6 Wind rose Diagram of October – December 2021 ................................................... 40

73. Figure 3-7 Maximum & Minimum Values Variation PM10 ....................................................... 43

74. Figure 3-8 Maximum & Minimum values variation PM2.5 ...................................................... 43

75. Figure 3-9 Maximum & Minimum values variation SO2 ......................................................... 44

76. Figure 3-10 Maximum & Minimum values various No2 .......................................................... 44

77. Figure 3-11 Maximum & Minimum values various CO ........................................................... 45

78. Figure 3-12 % of Population in study area ............................................................................. 51

2

79. Figure 3-13 Chart showing the male to female population ...................................................... 52

80. Figure 3-14 Percentage literacy rate of the study area ............................................................ 53

81. Figure 3-15 Percentage employment scenario in study area .................................................... 54

82. Figure 3-16 ecological studies sampling location .................................................................... 59

83. Figure 3-17 Flow chart illustrating the methodology of Digital image processing ..................... 78

84. Figure 3-18 False colour composite Imagery of Study Area ..................................................... 82

85. Figure 3-19 land use and land cover classified imagery of study area ..................................... 83

86. Figure 3-20 Land use planning of the proposed site ............................................................... 84

87. Figure 10-1 Organizational structure of environment department ......................................... 137

file:///D:/khaja%20bande%20nawaz%20desktop/KBN/EIA/02%20PARVATAMMA_RAJAPURA_IRON%20ORE/DRFAT%20EIA/KMP%20EIA%20_KBN.docx%23_Toc93582829

Chapter-1 EIA-EMP of Rajapur Iron Ore Mine of Smt. K.M. Parvathamma, Bellary

1

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose of the Report

The Mining lease area over Extent: 61.33 Acres. (24.82 Ha) in that 18.22 Ha Forest Land & 6.6 Ha Government Waste Land. at M.L. No.2514. Other than

fully mechanized open cast method with Drilling Blasting Mining is followed. It has been proposed to produce average 43000 tons per year (128666 tons in

five years) of iron ore. The nearest habitation is Rajapura is located at a distance of 2.8km due NE from the lease area. The ore reef will be blasted, handled and loaded by excavators into tippers of 10-ton capacity and

transported to the crushing / screening plan to produce salable fraction. (-40+10mm & -10mm). The sized ore is then loaded into buyer’s trucks of 16 tons

for further movement. Haulage road will be maintained with proper alignment/side bunds with an average gradient of 1:16. The area falls in Geological Survey of India Toposheet No. D43E12 & D43K9.

First mining plan was approved on 2.11.1992 for a period 1992-93 to 1996-

97. Mining plan was approved on 26.02.1998 for a period of 5 years from

1997-98 to 2002-2003. As there was no forest clearance mine was not

working later the mining plan was reconsidered from 2000-01 to 2004-05.

Mining Scheme for the period 2005-2010 was approved by IBM vide letter

No.MS/BLR/Fe-55-SZ date 08.11.2005 for the extent of 31.167 Ha. Then

modified Scheme of Mining for the above period (2005-2010) modified under

Rule 10(1) of MCDR for area extent 24.82Ha was approved by IBM vide letter

No. Ms/BLR/Fe55-Sz dated 18.07.2006. Mining Scheme for the period 2010-

2015Prepard and submitted IBM on 23.09.2011. On receipt of SOM

submitted by the lessee IBM has advised the lessee to obtain the clearance

letter along with duly certified lease sketch of ML area from DMG, Bangalore

and resubmit the SOM vide IBM letter No. 279/313/92/BNG/1179 dated

5.5.2015.

Letter of IBM approval letter of previous scheme vide letter no. 279/313/92/BNG/1179 Dated: 05.05.2015.

The Force NOC vide letter No; 4-KRC 1049/2015-BAN/641 dated 18.06.2019.

The proposal was Granted ToR in SEAC meeting held on 22.12.2021 at

agenda no.271. Based on the recommendation of SEAC, Committee Members

has recommended the proposal for applying in Form 2 in EC portal with

EIA/EMP report with baseline data Monitoring from October-December,2021.

The EIA/EMP report for a Max Production of 43000TPA should include the

standard conditions of TOR and other information as mentioned in above.

Chapter-1 EIA-EMP Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt. K.M. Parvatamma, Bellary

2

1.2 Identification of Project

The Mining lease area over Extent: 61.33 Acres. (24.82 Ha) in that 18.22 Ha

Forest Land & 6.6 Ha Government Waste Land. at M.L. No.2514. Other than fully mechanized open cast method with Drilling Blasting Mining is followed. It has been proposed to produce average 43000 tons per year (128666 tons in

five years) of iron ore. The nearest habitation is Rajapura is located at a distance of 2.8km due NE from the lease area. The ore reef will be blasted,

handled and loaded by excavators into tippers of 10-ton capacity and transported to the crushing / screening plan to produce salable fraction. (-40+10mm & -10mm). The sized ore is then loaded into buyer’s trucks of 16

tons for further movement. Haulage road will be maintained with proper alignment/side bunds with an average gradient of 1:16. The Proposed area is bounded by the Latitude N-15°00'58.3" to N- 15°01'32.9" and longitude E-

76°39'31.7” to E-76°39'57.3” in Topo Sheet No. D43E12 & D43K9.

1.2.1 Project Proponent

Rajapura Iron Ore Mines (ML. No 2514) is held by Smt. K.M. Parvatamma, Ballari over an Extent of 61.33 Acres. (24.82 Ha) as per CEC and 24.82Ha as

per Lease Deed near Rajapura Village, Sandur Taluk, Bellary District of Karnataka.

1.3 Brief Description of Nature, Size, and Location of the

Project

The proposed project involves the mining of iron ore over an extent of 24.82

ha. and forms part of Schedule 1(a) (i) Mining of Minerals (Non-Coal Mining),

Category B1 of EIA Notification, 2006. The objective of the project is to cater

the iron ore demand to the nearby Industries.

Rajapura Mine proposes to produce 43,000 TPA Iron ore (ROM) Extent: 61.33

Acres. (24.82 Ha) in that 18.22 Ha Forest Land & 6.6 Ha Government Waste

Land. at M.L. No.2514., located in Rajapur Village, Sandur Taluk, Bellary

District, Karnataka

1.4 Importance to the Country & Region

Mining plays an important role in the development of the region and Country.

Iron & Steel is the crux for industrial development in a country. The vitality

of the iron & steel industry largely influences the economic status of a

country. This project will cater a part of the iron ore requirement of the Steel

Plant. In addition, this will generate employment opportunities in the region.

The steel industry contributes 2% in India’s GDP. Steel per capita

consumption in India is expected to increase to 160 kgs by 2030-31 whereas

the present consumption is 74.6 kgs only. Easy availability of manpower and

presence of abundant iron ore reserves make India competitive in the global


3

set up. Therefore, to meet the growing demand of steel and to support in

country’s GDP extraction of raw materials becomes inevitable.

Also, the project leads to development of nearby villages by providing

employment to the local people. It improves the living conditions of the people

living in the vicinity of the project. Rajapura Iron Ore Mines has robust CSR

policy which will help in growth of the people in the Directly Impacted Zone

(DIZ) of mine.

The National Steel Policy 2017, released by the government, aims to increase

steel production. Thus, both production and consumption of steel is expected

to remain buoyant in future. India became the 2nd largest producer of crude

steel in 2018 and 2019. Integration of iron ore mines will be helpful for the

company in ultimately increasing the steel production.

1.5 Brief History of Project

The Mining lease was first granted in the year 1953 and subsequently renewed

under the Mining Lease No. 2514. The lease had been transferred to Smt. K. M. Parvathamma. from K.M. Rudraiah over an Extent of 121.41 Ha (105.483

Ha in forest land and 15.927 Ha in Revenue/ Private Land) and transferred to Smt. K.M. Parvathamma legal heir and wife of Sri. K.M. Rudraiah in the year 23.2.1979 as per G.O. Notification CI/29MMM79 dated 17.12.1979. for

the period of 20 Years w.e.f. 21.09.1973 was granted to Smt. K. M. Parvathamma over an Extent of 121.41 Ha (105.483 Ha in forest land and

15.927 Ha in Revenue/ Private Land) on 5.9.1979 and valid upto 20.09.1993 was Granted to Smt.K.M. Parvathamma over an extent of 15.24 Ha of forest land (after surrendering an area of 90.243 Ha out of 105.483 Ha forest land)

Vide Govt. Notification No. CI.76.MMM.2002 date 13.01.2005. further in continuation of above notification No. CI. 76MMM.2002 second renewal for 20 years was modified as ML.No.2514 and granted to Smt. K.M. Parvathamma

Over an Extent of 24.82 Ha (after surrendering an area of 6.257 Ha out of 15.927 Ha revenue land) w.e.f 21.09.2003 to 23.2.2023 Vide G.O. notification

CI.10.MMM.2006 dated 19.01.2006 and executed on 23.02.2006.

First mining plan was approved on 2.11.1992 for a period 1992-93 to 1996-97. Mining plan was approved on 26.02.1998 for a period of 5 years from

1997-98 to 2002-2003. As there was no forest clearance mine was not working later the mining plan was reconsidered from 2000-01 to 2004-05.

Mining Scheme for the period 2005-2010 was approved by IBM vide letter No.MS/BLR/Fe-55-SZ date 08.11.2005 for the extent of 31.167 Ha. Then modified Scheme of Mining for the above period (2005-2010) modified under

Rule 10(1) of MCDR for area extent 24.82 Ha was approved by IBM vide letter No. Ms/BLR/Fe55-Sz dated 18.07.2006. Mining Scheme for the period 2010-2015 Prepared and submitted IBM on 23.09.2011. On receipt of SOM

submitted by the lessee IBM has advised the lessee to obtain the clearance letter along with duly certified lease sketch of ML area from DMG, Bangalore

and resubmit the SOM vide IBM letter No. 279/313/92/BNG/1179 dated 5.5.2015.


4

1.5.1 Details of Mining Lease

Mine lease was executed on 23.02.2006

1.5.2 Mining Plan

Approved Review & Updating of mining plan in the name of Rajapura Iron Ore

Mines of Smt. K.M. Parvathamma (letter no. 279/313/92/BNG/1251 Dated:

26.11.2021)

1.5.3 Forest Clearance

Stage 1 Forest Clearance (FC) has been accorded by K.M. Parvathamma vide

Proposal No. 4-KRC 1049/2015-BAN/641 Dated. 18.06.2019.

1.6 Scope of the study - details of regulatory scoping carried

out (as per terms of reference):

The scope of the study is to carry out the Environment Impact Assessment of

allocated mining lease area and 10 km radius around it to identify, predict

and evaluate potential environmental and socio-economic impacts which may

result from the proposed project and to develop suitable Environment

Management Plan (EMP) to mitigate the undesirable effects.

The study is aimed at:

Establishing a baseline data of the existing environmental conditions,

identifying potential environmental impacts and areas of significant

environmental concern due to the proposed project;

Prediction of impacts on environment and socio-economic conditions of

the people.

Preparation of EIA/EMP

Development of post project Environmental Monitoring Program.

The EIA study has been carried out as per the TOR issued by 271th Meeting

of SEAC, Karnataka held dated:21/12/2021, including general/sectoral

provisions.


5

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Type of the Project

The mining operations of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine are fully mechanized open cast

that involves drilling, blasting, excavation, loading and hauling. The operations

are conducted using HEMM equipment like hydraulic drills, hydraulic

excavators, wheel loaders and dumpers/tippers.

The salient features of the Rajapura Iron Ore Mine are given in Table 2.1.

TABLE 2-1 SALIENT FEATURES OF RAJAPUR IRON ORE MINE

Name of the mine Rajapura Iron Ore Mine (ML No. 2514)

Total Area 24.82 Ha.

Area in Forestland 18.22 Ha

Area in Non-Forest Land 6.6 Ha

Production Capacity 43000 TPA (As per approved Mining Plan)

Lat/long Latitude : 15° 1'23.68"N Longitude : 76°39'48.34"E

Topo sheet No D43E12 & D43K9

Date of Grant of Lease 21-09-1953

Period/Expiry Date Valid up to 21.09.2023

Existence of Public

Road/Railway Line, if

any, nearby and

approximate distance

Road:

Bellary Hiriyur Road NH 150A about 20Kms

(Aerial Distance)

Bellary-Bommaghatta Road 1.8km (Aerial Distance) Railway line- Ranjitpura 7 Kms

Postal Address

Smt. K.M. Parvathamma

18/35, IInd Link road, Parvathinagar,

Bellary-583103

Ph: +91-9448291575/ 08392-266385

District Ballari

State Karnataka

Type of mine Open cast mine

Method of mining Fully mechanized open cast method


6

Mineable reserves 35,72,010 Tonnes of Iron ore as per approved

mining plan

Expected life of mine 2nd renewal valid up to 20 September 2023 (as

per lease deed)

Ore to Waste ratio 1: 0.98(Plan Period)

Average no. of working

days 36

Number of shifts One

Bench height & width 8 m

Top and Bottom Bench 880 mRL and 675 mRL

Present working benches 735 mRL to 687mRL (Third Year)

Waste (Plan Period) 1,26,190 TPA

Ultimate pit slope Not more than 45 degrees

Estimated Power

requirement & source 500 units/day , Source - DG sets

Estimated Water

requirement & source 24 KLD, Source – Open Wells & Tube Wells

Project Cost (Gross Block

cost)

Rs. 258 Lakhs

2.2 Need of the Project

Government of India has an ambitious plan for increasing the domestic steel

production capacity from around 115 MTPA to 300 MTPA in next 10 to 15 years.

This will necessitate production of 400-450 million tonnes of iron ore annually.

Low per capita steel consumption in the country at 74.6 kg vis-a-vis the world

average of 208 kg also indicates the huge growth potential of the Indian steel

industry. Further, the Government's plan of developing 100 smart cities and

housing for all by 2022 will result in a huge demand of steel. To cater the growing

demand of steel.

Mining plays an important role in the development of the Region and Country.

The iron ore produced from this mine will be used in JSW Steel Plant for making

steel. The steel industry contributes 2 % in India’s GDP. Steel per capita

consumption in India is expected to increase to 160 kgs by 2030-31 whereas the


7

present consumption is 74.6 kgs only. Easy availability of work force and

presence of abundant iron ore reserves make India competitive in the global set

up. Therefore, to meet the growing demand of steel and to support in country’s

GDP extraction of raw materials becomes inevitable. In addition, the project leads

to development of nearby villages by providing employment and better

infrastructure to the local people. It improves the living standard of the people

residing near the project. Rajapura Iron Ore Mine has robust CSR policy, which

will help in growth of the people in the Directly Impacted Zone (DIZ) of mine.

2.3 Location

The lease area is located in Rajapura Village, Sandur Taluk, Bellary District of

Karnataka. over an Extent of 61.33 Acres. (24.82 Ha) as per CEC and 24.82Ha

as per Lease Deed.

The coordinates are given in Table 2.2. Location of mining lease is shown in

Figure - 2.1.

Topo sheet no.: D43E12 & D43K9.

TABLE 2-2 DETAILS OF COORDINATES

Pillar No.

Pillar Latitude (dd:mm:ss.ss)

Pillar Longitude (dd:mm:ss.ss)

1 15°01'32.9" 76°39'47.0"

2 15°01'26.3" 76°39'49.2”

3 15°01'27.1" 76°39'52.3”

4 15°01'20.9" 76°39'54.8”

5 15°01'14.1" 76°39'53.7”

6 15°01'13.9" 76°39'58.2”

7 15°01'13.9" 76°39'01.6”

8 15°01'10.8" 76°39'57.3”

9 15°01'10.7" 76°39'54.1”

10 15°01'09.3" 76°39'54.1”

11 15°01'09.2" 76°39'54.5”

12 15°01'03.4" 76°39'56.1”

13 15°01'02.7" 76°39'52.5”

14 15°01'09.5" 76°39'50.6”

15 15°01'09.7" 76°39'49.1”

16 15°01'09.6" 76°39'47.4”

17 15°01'09.4" 76°39'44.9”

17A 15°01'09.5" 76°39'43.4”

18 15°01'09.3" 76°39'39.7”

19 15°01'08.8" 76°39'38.7”

20 15°01'04.9" 76°39'35.9”


8

21 15°00'58.3" 76°39'34.1”

22 15°01'04.9" 76°39'31.7”

23 15°01'06.7" 76°39'33.8”

24 15°01'08.6" 76°39'34.7”

24A 15°01'11.3" 76°39'38.9”

24B 15°01'10.1" 76°39'39.6”

25 15°01'13.5" 76°39'41.5”

26 15°01'12.3" 76°39'42.1”

27 15°01'11.6" 76°39'42.8”

28 15°01'10.9" 76°39'44.7”

29 15°01'11.1" 76°39'47.0”

30 15°01'12.3" 76°39'47.8”

31 15°01'14.5" 76°39'48.2”

32 15°01'14.5" 76°39'47.3”

33 15°01'23.1" 76°39'45.0

34 15°01'30.1" 76°39'40.5”

35 15°01'32.2" 76°39'42.4”

FIGURE 2-1 LOCATION MAP OF THE PROJECT SITE

2.4 Size or Magnitude of Operation

Rajapura Iron Ore Mine ML No.2514 spread over an area of over an Extent of

61.33 Acres.(24.82 Ha) as per CEC and 24.82Ha as per Lease Deed. The mine

has about 35,72,010 Tonnes of minable reserves which are with proposed

production of 43,000TPA.


9

2.4.1 Mining Operations

As the mine was in operation for nearly seven decades, it is already developed in

respect of open pit, access roads, network of internal roads, site facilities, waste

dump, C&S plant, etc. The existing method of mining, namely “opencast mining”

method is proposed to be continued. Entire operations are fully mechanized

through use of Heavy Earth Moving Machinery. Broadly, the mining operations

include excavation, loading, C&S and haulage of overburden to waste dumps.

The ROM will be excavated, loaded, processed in C&S plant and hauled to steel

plants. The waste is stored to the designated place as per the approved mine

plan.

TABLE 2-3 List OF equipment deployed for mining

MACHINERY

Excavation, loading and haulage is through deployment of HEMM (Heavy Earth

Moving Machines). Mobile crushing & screening plant of 250 TPH and static

screening plant of 400 TPH are established in the mine, to process the ROM. The

crusher processes the mineral to different sizes of 0-10 (Fines) and 10-40 mm

(Lumps) which is stacked separately at the designated stock yard. Deployment

of tertiary crusher will be taken up as and when required.

Sl. No

Type Nos Size/Capacity Make Motive Power

1 Wagon Drill 1 115mm,116HP Atlas Capco Diesel

2 Compressor 1 7.5Kg/2000rpm Atlas

Capco/ARD

Compressed

Air

3 Wheel Loader 1 2.5 & 2.0 cum (2 each)

TATA, HM Diesel

4 Excavator 1 0.9cum (2), 1.75

cu0

LT 200, EX-

350

Diesel

5 Tipper 5 10 tonnes Tata Diesel

6 Jeep 1 -- Mahindra Diesel

7 Water Tanker 1 4000 ltrs 1 Tata Diesel

8 Crushing/Screen Plant (mobile)

1 100 tph DG


10

2.4.2 Exploration

Details of Prospecting/Exploration Already Carried out:

No exploration carried out during last plan period.

Proposed Exploration: Not Applicable

Ore Reserves

Balance Mineable Reserves as on 1.04.2021 is given in Table 2.4.

Hematitic Ore:

TABLE 2-4 Balance reserves as on 1.4.2021

Classification Code Quantity Grade

Forest Non-

Forest Total Fores

t

Non-Fores

t

A. Mineral Reserve

1. Proved Mineral Reserve (A) 111

2761277 0 2761277

59.79%Fe 0

2. Probable Mineral Reserve (A) 121 0 0 0 0 0


B. Remaining Resources

1. Feasibility Mineral Resource (B) 211 792195 0 792195 0 0

2. Prefeasibility Mineral Resource (B) 221 0 0 0 0 0


4. Measured Mineral Resource (B) 331 0 0 0 0 0

5. Indicated Mineral Resource (B) 332 0 0 0 0 0

6. Inferred Mineral Resource (B) 333 153000

0 153000

59.79%Fe

0

7. Reconnaissance Mineral Resource (B) 334 0

0 0

0 0

Total Mineral Resources (A+B)

3706472

3706472

Silicious Iron Ore:

Classification Code Quantity Grade

Forest Non-

Forest Total Forest Non-

Forest

A. Mineral Reserve

1. Proved Mineral Reserve (A) 111 123530 0 123530 40.57 0



B. Remaining Resources


11

1. Feasibility Mineral Resource (B) 211 0 0 0 0 0



4. Measured Mineral Resource(B) 331 2772 0 2772 40.57 0

5. Indicated Mineral Resource(B) 332 0 0 0 0 0

6. Inferred Mineral Resource (B) 333 0 0 0 0 0

7. Reconnaissance Mineral Resource (B) 334 0 0 0 0 0

Total Mineral Resources (A+B) 126302 126302

Exploration work has been carried out by Rajapura Iron Ore Mines up to G1, G2

stage. As such the reserves under different remaining categories are nil. (Source:

Approved Mine Plan).

2.4.3 Production Details

Production during plan period

The detail of the production proposed during plan period is given in Table 2.8.

TABLE 2-5 Proposed production

Plan Period Iron Ore (ROM)

production(TPA)

2021-22 42768

2022-23 42887

2023-24 42946

2.5 Proposed schedule for approval and implementation

First mining plan was approved on 2.11.1992 for a period 1992-93 to 1996-97.

Mining plan was approved on 26.02.1998 for a period of 5 years from 1997-98

to 2002-2003. As there was no forest clearance mine was not working later the

mining plan was reconsidered from 2000-01 to 2004-05. Mining Scheme for the

period 2005-2010 was approved by IBM vide letter No.MS/BLR/Fe-55-SZ date

08.11.2005 for the extent of 31.167 Ha. Then modified Scheme of Mining for the

above period (2005-2010) modified under Rule 10(1) of MCDR for area extent

24.91Ha was approved by IBM vide letter No. Ms/BLR/Fe55-Sz dated

18.07.2006. Mining Scheme for the period 2010-2015Prepard and submitted

IBM on 23.09.2011. On receipt of SOM submitted by the lessee IBM has advised

the lessee to obtain the clearance letter along with duly certified lease sketch of

ML area from DMG, Bangalore and resubmit the SOM vide IBM letter No.

279/313/92/BNG/1179 dated 5.5.2015.

Letter of IBM approval letter of previous scheme vide letter no.

279/313/92/BNG/1179 Dated: 05.05.2015.


12

The Force NOC vide letter No; 4-KRC 1049/2015-BAN/641 dated 18.06.2019.

The proposal was Granted ToR in SEAC meeting held on 22.12.2021 at agenda

no.271, amendment to TOR proposal. Based on the recommendation of SEAC,

Committee Members has recommended the proposal for applying in Form 2 in

EC portal with EIA/EMP report with fresh baseline data. The EIA/EMP report

for a Max Production of 43000TPA should include the standard conditions of

TOR and other information as mentioned in above.

2.6 Technology and Process Description

2.6.1 Method of Mining

As the mine is in operation for nearly seven decades, it is already developed in

respect of open pit, access roads, network of internal roads, site facilities, waste

dump, C&S plant, etc. The existing method of mining, namely “opencast mining”

method is proposed to be continued. Entire operations are fully mechanized

through use of Heavy Earth Moving Machinery. Broadly, the mining operations

include excavation, loading, C&S and haulage of overburden to waste dumps.

The ROM will be excavated, loaded, processed in C&S plant and hauled to steel

plants. The waste is dumped to the designated place as per the approved mine

plan.

Mining is carried out by making benches of 8m height and 8m width. Excavators

will be used for progressing the benches. Systematic bench formation will be

made to rectify old benches. Bench slope will be around 80o. Overall pit slope

will be maintained at 45o with horizontal. Approach roads for each bench will be

made with sufficient width. Top most existing bench will be pushed back to

facilitate the formation of proper benches.

Excavation, loading and haulage is through deployment of HEMM (Heavy Earth

Moving Machines). Mobile crushing & screening plant of 250 TPH and static

screening plant of 400 TPH are established in the mine, to process the ROM. The

crusher processes the mineral to different sizes of 0-10 (Fines) and 10-40 mm

(Lumps) which is stacked separately at the designated stock yard. No wet mineral

processing is done, only dry crushing and screening process is done for

production of Fines (0 to 10 mm) and Lumps (10 mm to 40 mm). Deployment of

tertiary crusher will be taken up as and when required.


13

FIGURE 2-2 MINE PIT OF RAJAPURA IRON ORE MINE

As per the requirement of the steel plant, it also proposed to transport the ROM

directly to the steel plant as Ore Crushing & Screening with Beneficiation Unit

is already established in the Steel Plant. The material flow chart is provided

below:


14

FIGURE 2-3 MATERIAL FLOW CHART STEEL PLANT


15

2.6.2 Drilling

Drilling will be done by using 4” to 6” dia drill machines. The depth of hole shall

be up to 7 meters including the allowance for sub-grade drilling. The depth of

the holes will be about 7.00 m to take care of bench height of 6.0 mts and sub-

grade at a later stage. Dust control measures like wet drilling will be practiced

for dust control. Secondary drilling will also be done for toes and ledges, whereas

boulders will be broken with rock breaker to avoid secondary blasting, air blast

and excessive ground vibrations.

2.6.3 Blasting

Burden and Spacing

3 to 4 row blasting patterns will be adopted to minimize ground vibration, noise

and fly rock. The diameter of holes will be 110 mm and the depth of holes on an

average 7 m (including that of sub grade drilling of 1meter for bench height

variations etc.). The average burden will be 3 to 3.5 meters and the average

spacing 3.5 to 4m. Stemming 3 to 3.2m/hole.

Charge/hole and no. of holes

Charge per hole is around 35 to 40 kg for ore and around 30 to 35 kg for waste.

Blasting will be conducted as and when required.

Method of Initiation

Non-electric Bottom initiation will be adopted for reduced noise and ground

vibration by using suitable initiation methods. With modern bottom initiation

techniques, in-hole delay sequencing will be adopted. It further controls the

ground vibrations and the possibility of air blast becomes negligible.

Sequence of blasting

The first row will be blasted in the beginning and subsequent rows after giving

proper delay. The rows will be blasted in multi row blasting method.

Type of Explosives

Explosive for column charge will be conventional slurry explosives in the

cartridge form and Site Mixed Emulsion (SME) explosives. Conventional D-cord

and shock tubes will be used for trunk line.

Powder Factor

A powder factor of 5.8-6.5 ton/kg for ore and 7 to 8 ton/kg will be maintained

for waste evacuation.


16

Secondary Blasting

The secondary blasting will be done only for blasting of toes, and ledges.

Secondary drilling will be done by 100 mm dia. crawler drills and subsequently

blasting by controlled charging. However, blasting of boulders will be minimized

keeping in view the vibration and noise hazards

Excavation & Loading

The blasted material will be excavated by the hydraulic excavators and front-end

loaders having various bucket capacities for achieving the planned production.

The waste excavation will also be met with the machinery deployed as per the

excavation plan.

2.6.4 Haulage & Transportation for Ore & Waste

The excavated material including ROM & waste are loaded into dumpers and

tippers of 10 Tonnes capacity for transporting to the designated stockyard and

dump site. For achieving the desired production and waste quantity as per the

excavation plan approximately 5 trips of dumpers & tippers are required for

internal transportation.

The total fleet of Machineries to be deployed at Rajapura Iron Ore Mine are given in the

Table 2-6:

TABLE 2-6 Fleet of Equipment & Machineries loading equipment

Sl. No

Type Nos Size/Capacity Make Motive Power

1 Wagon Drill 1 115mm,116HP Atlas Capco Diesel

2 Compressor 1 7.5Kg/2000rpm Atlas

Capco/ARD

Compressed

Air

3 Wheel Loader 1 2.5 & 2.0 cum

(2 each)

TATA, HM Diesel

4 Excavator 1 0.9cum (2), 1.75

cu0

LT 200,

EX-350

Diesel

5 Tipper 5 10 tonnes Tata Diesel

6 Jeep 1 -- Mahindra Diesel

7 Water Tanker 1 4000 ltrs 1 Tata Diesel

8 Crushing/Screen

Plant (mobile)

1 100 tph DG


17

2.6.5 Crushing and Screening

No wet mineral processing is done, only dry crushing and screening process is

done for production of Fines (0 to 10 mm) and Lumps (10mm to 40 mm). The

ROM (Runoff Mine) is extracted from the mine pit and is fed to screening &

crushing plant. Deployment of tertiary crusher will be taken up as and when

required.

2.6.6 Stacking, Wagon Loading & Transportation

As this mine was already an operational mine, the transportation facilities

already exist. Presently the transportation of ore from the Rajapura Iron Ore

Mines to Steel Plants is done by Tipper-Rake combination. Dispatch of iron ore

from mine head to Railway Yard is carried out by Trucks/Tippers. Transportation

from Railway Yard to Steel Plants is done by rakes. A major portion of the

transportation is planned through rakes, however, road transportation is

planned for short distances.

2.6.7 Recovery and Grade

Ore Processing will be operated on dry mode owing to which no slime generation

is expected. The expected recovery of Lumps and Fines is 24% & 76 %

respectively. The expected grade of the products is given in Table 2-7.

TABLE 2-7 Expected grade

Category Fe%

Calibrated Iron ore (+10to- 40mm) +45

Fines Iron ore (-10mm) +45

2.6.8 Energy

Power & Fuel Requirement:

Power is required for Office, Weighbridge operation and workshops that will be

provided by DG sets.

Estimated Power requirement - 500 units/day

Estimated Fuel requirement – 3000 L/day

The DG sets have acoustic enclosure to ensure the safe working condition for

the employees and control noise pollution.

Renewable Energy

Solar based Wi-Fi tower is established in the lease area.


18

2.7 Project Description

2.7.1 Topography

Rajapura Iron Ore Mine is located in the Sandur Forest Rage, Bellary Division of Karnataka. The area of the lease holds forms apart of rugged hilly terrain. The

area is a hilly region with NW/SE trends with a minimum elevation of 675mRL at the southern part near road a maximum of 880mRL towards northern most

part of the lease area. Since the slope is towards eastern side, the drainage patter is dendritic flowing towards east through valleys.

As the area is part of forest, moderate vegetation with small trees and

shrubs/bushes are observed.

The area enjoys tropical climate with an annual average rainfall of about 750mm.

Maximum temperature in summer days is around 400C, and minimum temperature during winter nights’ records between 12-18 0C. Humidity varies between 25 to 85%.

Haulage road will be maintained with proper alignment/side bunds with an average gradient of 1:16. The Proposed area is bounded by the Latitude N-15°00'58.3" to N- 15°01'32.9" and longitude E-76°39'31.7” to E-76°39'57.3” in

Topo Sheet No. D43E12 & D43K9.

2.7.2 Drainage Pattern

The Monsoon Water get drained off through the natural Valley. There is no seepage water and there is no water table in the vicinity as the lowest level in

mining will be above the ground level.

2.7.3 Geology

Regional Geology

The Mining Lease area is located at the East portion of Kumaraswamibetta Reserve Forest range The Project site is surrounded by east and west Forest area,

North forest area and Sy. No:8 and South Forest area. The project area is a part of the Bellary-Sandur-Hospet group of iron ore deposits hosted by Sandur Schist

Belt. The Sandur Schist belt is one of the Dharwar type precambrian supracrustal belt in the Karnataka craton of South India. Many geologists like Radhakrishnan, RN Mishra, Ray & Biswas, Swaminathan, Mukhopadhyay &

Martin, Vasudev and pravakar have worked extensively on the structure, geology and genesis of this schist belt. This is the smallest of the three basins and covers

an area of just 960 sq.km. It is structurally highly disturbed and squeezed out of shape by the intrusion of younger granites. Shelf facies as in the other basin is confined to the western margin. Well-developed mafic magmatism and strong

development of manganiferous grey wacke, phyllite and numerous bands of banded hematite quartzite (BHQ) charracterise the basin. The basin is known for


19

its rich accumulation of both Iron and Manganese Ore. Basement cover relations are obscure because of intense deformation and intrusions by younger granite.

The schist belt has a lens- shaped geometry of about 60 km long, with a width of 28km in the central part. Four formations have been distinguished in this basin: Yeshwantnagar Formation is largely composed of volcanic flows; the

Deogiri formations by manganiferous greywackey argillite and the Dhonimalai Formation by extensive development of banded haematite, chert and jasper. The topmost Nandihalli Formation is made up of metabasalts with intercalation of

greywacke and argillites. Lateritization has played an important role in the concentration of Manganese and Iron in the profile, giving rise to rich

accumulation of Manganese and Iron Ore for which the schist belt is well known. (Source: Geology of Karnataka- BP Radhakrishnan & R Vaidhyanathan).

Regional Stratigraphy

Basic dykes of gabbro and dolerite closepet granite (Pink and Grey

porphyritic granite) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nadihalli formation Metabasalt, metagabbro, acid

volcanics and interrelated bands of graywacke-argillite

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

Donimalai Banded ferruginous or pyritiferrous chert,

formation Metabasalt/ amphibolite, meta gabbro, Andesitic tuff, acid volcanics,

conglomerate, Metagreywacke and metapelites.

Deogiri Manganiferous greywacke-argillite, with bands of

formation banded ferruginous chert and

dolomitic limestone. Metabasalt and rare acid tuff Arenites, dolomitic limestone and

phyllite. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yeshwanthnagar Metabasalt/ amphibolite with metapyroxenite,

formation metagabbro and thin inetercalated

bands of quartzite and quartz-mica schist.

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

Peninsular gneiss (banded granodirite/ tonalitic gneiss).


20

Local Geology

Rajapura Iron Ore mine is having good exposure of iron ore bands. Mineralization

occurring in the lease area is of Hematitic variety. The iron ore deposit occurring

in the lease area is of stratiform, strata bound and tabular deposit of regular

habit as per UNFC. Strike of the ore body is NW-SE with steep easterly dip of 75

to 80 degree. Iron ore in the lease area occurring as two distinct bands, northern

band extends over the strike length of 630 m and southern band extends over

the length of 270m. Northern ore band characterized with soft ore and red oxide

mixed. Southern part of the ore band is hard and compact with footwall of

Banded Hematite Quartzite (BHQ) which acts as barrier for ore. Branching of the

band is also observed. The contacts of ore with waste are clearly seen in the

mine. Apart from reef ore, Iron ore float also present in the western part of lease

area (Pl. refer Geological Plan). Thickness of the float ore is around 2 m. Local

geological setup / sequence is as follows Ferruginous Shale - Iron Ore- Banded

Hematite Quartzite. Shale/ phyllite occurs in the hanging wall which is soft, fine

grain and yellow in colour and footwall side occupied by massive Banded

Hematite Quartzite (BHQ). Iron ore occurring in the northern part of the lease

area is soft and with red oxide mixed whereas southern band characterized with

hard lumpy type. Lumps and fines percentage is approximately 40% and 60%.

Float ore bed of around 2 m thickness spread in western part of the lease area.

Float ore zone of the lease area comprised of pebbles of iron ore mixed with soil

and BHQ fragments. BHQ occurring in the lease area is of brownish to greyish

in colour which is hard and compact in nature. Shale/Phyllite occurring in the

lease area are soft in nature with yellowish to brownish in colour

Land Use-Pattern

The Land use pattern of Rajapur Iron ore mine for Existing/ Plan period and Conceptual Period is as follows

TABLE 2-8 THE LAND USE PATTERN OF THE MINE AREA AT PRESENT AND CONCEPTUAL PERIOD

Sl.

No

Particulars Existing/Plan Period In

Ha

Conceptual Period In

Ha

Forest Revenue Total Forest Reven

ue

Total

1. Mining 9.15 0.60 9.75 12.46 0.60 13.06

2 Dumping 4.10 0.27 4.37 2.70 0.27 2.97

3 Mineral Storage -- 1.30 1.30 -- 1.30 1.30

4. Topsoil Yard -- -- -- -- -- --

5. Infrastructure/Statu

tory Building

-- 0.02 0.02 -- 0.02 0.02

6. Screening Plan -- 0.12 0.12 -- 0.12 0.12


21

7. Road -- 1.00 1.00 -- 1.00 1.00

8. Green Belt (Safety Zone)

2.06 1.04 3.10 2.06 1.04 3.10

9. Area for Eng.

Measures

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

10 Others

Biodiversity Area / Area Unused

1.00

1.91

--

2.25

1.00

4.16

1.00

--

--

2.25

1.00

2.25

Total 18.22 6.60 24.82 18.22 6.60 24.82

Life of the Mine

2nd renewal valid up to 20 September 2023 (as per lease deed)

2.7.4 Waste Generation

Existing Waste

The waste generated by the earlier lessee are dumped in 4.37 Ha.

Proposed waste generation during plan period

The proposed waste generation during plan period is given in Table 2-9.

TABLE 2-9 PROPOSED WASTE GENERATION (TONNES)

Period Waste in Tonnes.

2021-22 34968

2022-23 67032

2023-24 24190

Total 126190 (Reference: RUMP)

Proposed waste generation till life of mine

The total waste may generate till life of mine shall be 4301171 MT.

Waste Management

There is no top soil in the area and if encountered it will be used for regular

afforestation work. The waste generated is Shale/Phyllite, BHQ, Manganiferrous

clays, intercalated clays, poor grade from contact zones etc.

The waste with Fe content below 35 % (Siliceous Ore) is stored in the earmarked

waste dump. The estimated quantity of waste generated in the mining plan

period is 126190 MT and is dumped in extension of existing active dump in the

area of 4.37 ha. The dumping is done terrace wise from the bottom level to top

level.


22

The BHQ/Shale waste material is disposed in the area earmarked in existing

active dump and proposed to extend towards south eastern side.

Existing waste dump (Block –I)

Location Top RL Bottom RL Height (m) Area (ha)

Maximum

elevation

740 680 40 4.37

There is only one active dump where the total waste is dumped as an extension

of the existing dump. The dumping is done terrace wise from the bottom level to

top level.

Each stage of waste dump is maintained at equal height of 10 m and 3 stages

are proposed as per the existing dump and the topography of the area. The

dumping is carried out at an angle not exceeding the angle of repose of the

material varies from 31 to 40 degrees. Engineering measures will be carried out

as per the approved mining plan. No sub-grade generation is proposed in this

plan period.

2.7.5 Utilities

Power Supply

The requirement of the electric power is fulfilled by DG set. Heavy Earth Moving

Machineries are fueled by High Speed Diesel.

Offices

The building is utilized by the various department heads like Mechanical

Services, Electrical Services, Geology, Survey and Mining in-charge/Excavation

in-charge. All the modern modalities like Furniture, File Cup-boards, Internet

and communication facilities are provided for smooth functioning.

Canteen

In order to meet the drinking water needs of the employees RO plant is

established. The Canteen has facility of dining hall, store room & restroom. The

waste generated is collected in a soak pit followed by a septic tank.

First-Aid Room

A first-aid room is established to provide an instant care to the people working

in mine. A competent person has been posted to render the first aid as and when

required. One dedicated ambulance is stationed in the designated place to meet

the exigency situation in the mines.


23

Rest shelter and Toilets

Restroom and Toilets have been provided for the people working in mine. The

same is cleaned regularly to maintain the hygiene of the area.

Manpower

Total direct employment potential in the mine is 36 covering the statutory work

force and skilled, semiskilled &unskilled workforce. Indirect employment is

approximately 40.

Water Requirement

Total water requirement is 24KLD for dust suppression, plantation and domestic

use. The detail bifurcation is provided below:

FIGURE 2-4 Total water requirement

2.8 Description of Mitigation Measures Incorporated to meet the

Environmental Standards

2.8.1 Air Pollution Mitigate Measures

Dust is the main pollutant from mining operations. Water tankers with

sprinkling system to suppress dust are deployed on the haulage roads and

approach roads. A fogger type dust suppressor is used near the Crushing &

Screening Plant. The existing greenbelt will be maintained and additional gap

plantation will be carried out which will act as windbreaks.

Total Water Requirement

24

12 KLD

Dust Suppression

8KLD

Plantation & Greenbelt

development

4 KLD

Domestic Requirement


24

2.8.2 Water Pollution Mitigative Measures

For protection of the mining area and for arresting wash-off sediments, the

surface water management measures have been implemented as recommended

by ICFRE in the R&R report. Details are elaborated in Chapter- 4.

2.8.3 Noise pollution mitigative measures

Proper and periodical maintenance of HEM machinery.

Noise levels will be controlled by using optimum explosive charge, proper

delay detonators, use of shock tubes and proper stemming to prevent “blow

out” of holes.

Speed of trucks entering or leaving the mine will be limited to a moderate

speed of 25 Kmph thereby preventing noise and dust.

Noise insulation/padding in Crushing & Screening plant and machinery,

wherever practicable.

Provision of ear muffs/ear plugs to workers in noise prone areas and in

Plant area.

2.8.4 Solid Waste Management

Waste will be dumped as per the approved mine plan.

2.8.5 Energy Efficiency measures

In order to reduce power consumption Solar Internet tower is used for

Internet.

Used oils, batteries and cotton waste will be collected and sold to the

authorized agencies.

Energy efficient motors will be installed for Crushing/Screening.

2.9 Assessment of New & Untested Technology for the risk of

Technological Failure

Not Applicable

Chapter-3 EIA/EMP of RAJAPURA IRON ORE BY Smt. K M Parvatamma, Bellary

25

3 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Study Description

The study area covers 10 km radius of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Rajapura Iron

ore Mines. located in Rajapura Village, Sandur Taluk, Bellary District of

Karnataka. Various features like roads, water bodies, flora, fauna, residential

habitats, transportation networks etc. were identified and other relevant data

like population, literacy rate etc. were collected.

The total mine lease area falls under The Sandur Range Forest.

3.1.1 Study Period

The present study was carried out from October 2021 to December 2021 for

three months. During the course of study primary data pertaining to the

environmental components like air quality, water quality, noise levels, soil

quality, flora and fauna and socio-economic parameters were generated.

Secondary data was also collected from various government & other sources in

the district for socio-economic studies.

3.1.2 Study Components

The attributes such as meteorology, ambient air quality, water quality, noise level

etc. were studied and the details of monitoring such as location, frequency etc.

are given below in Table 3.1.

TABLE 3-1 Showing Attributes and study parameters

S. No. Attribute Parameters Remark

1 Meteorology

Wind Speed and

Direction,

Temperature,

Relative Humidity &

Rainfall

Hourly recording at project

site

2 Ambient air

quality

RSPM(PM10),PM2.5,

SO2, NO2 and CO,

Eight locations 24 hourly

sampling twice a Month for

PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NO2

and other parameters.

3 Surface Water

quality

Physical, Chemical

and Bacteriological

Parameters as per

Four locations once in a

Study Period.


26

APHA and IS

standards

4 Ground water

quality

Physical, Chemical

and Bacteriological

Parameters as per

APHA and IS

standards

Eight locations once in a

Study Period.

4 Noise levels Noise levels in dB(A) Once during study period at

Eight locations.

5 Soil

characteristics

Soil profile,

characteristics, soil

type and texture,

NKP value etc.

Once during study period at

Eight locations.

6 Socio-economic

aspects

Socio-economic

characteristics

Secondary data from

Census-2011

7 Ecology Existing terrestrial

flora and fauna

Through field visit and

secondary data

8 Land use

Land use for different

categories

(Satellite Imagery)

Based on secondary data for

core and buffer zone.

Note: C- Core Zone, B-Buffer Zone, S-Surface Water, G-Ground Water

3.2 General Climatic Condition (Secondary data)

3.2.1 Climate

The area is characterized by very hot summer and mild winters. It experiences

tropical and humid climate which shows three distinct seasons viz summer,

rainy and winter.

3.2.2 Temperature, Relative Humidity and Rainfall

The area enjoys tropical climate with an annual average rainfall of about 750mm. Maximum temperature in summer days is around 400C, and minimum temperature during winter nights’ records between 12-18 0C. Humidity varies

between 25 to 85%.

3.2.3 Wind

Winds are generally moderate during summer and strengthen during rainy

season. In the south-west monsoon period they blow mainly from a south-


27

westerly or westerly direction. In the rest of the year they are predominantly from

directions between northeast and southeast. Thunderstorms are more frequent

during September and October. Some of the cyclonic storms which originate in

the Bay of Bengal during the post monsoon months across the eastern coast,

weaken into depressions and move across the district towards the east causing

widespread rains.

FIGURE 3-1 WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF THE STUDY PERIOD

3.2.4 Baseline Data

Environmental monitoring was carried out for base line data generation during

October 2021 to December 2021 for 3 Months. Micrometeorology, Ambient air

quality, Water quality, Noise level, Soil quality, Socio-economic & Biodiversity

study was carried out within 10 km radius of the lease area.

3.3 Selection of Sampling Stations

3.3.1 Micro-Meteorological Station

The meteorological data like temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction,

cloud cover and rainfall were recorded at site. The Meteorological data is

collected from IMD.

The Monthly averages of the Micro-meteorological data is given below:


28

TABLE 3-2 SHOWING THE MONTHLY AVERAGES MICRO-METEOROLOGICAL DATA

Sl No Month

Temp

in oC

Humidity

in %

Wind speed

in KMPH

Wind Direction

in Degree Rainfall in mm

1 Oct-21 28 67 10 159.34 37.4

2 Nov-21 25 81 10.6 106.86 76.5

3 Dec-21 25 63 10.8 109.91 1.9

3.3.2 Ambient Air Quality Locations

The ambient air quality was monitored at 8 locations. The monitoring locations

are detailed in Table 3.3.

TABLE 3-3 Details of the Ambient Air Quality monitoring locations

Location

Code Location Direction

Distance

from Mine

site

Latitude & Longitude

Remarks

AAQ1 Drilling Area - - 15° 1'23.96"N

76°39'47.63"E

Location is selected

to study the impact

of mine activities.

AAQ2 Loading Area - - 15° 1'19.65"N

76°39'48.57"E


to study the impact

of mining Activities.

AAQ3 Dumping Area - - 15° 1'23.93"N

76°39'50.10"E


to study the impact

of mining

Activities.

AAQ4 Ubbalagundi N 3 Km 15° 3'2.52"N

76°39'13.92"E Residential Area

AAQ5 Rajapura NE 2.7 Km 15° 1'49.35"N

76°41'12.91"E Residential Area

AAQ6 Appavvanahall

i S 3.1Km

14°59'38.69"N

76°39'42.25"E

Crosswind

Direction

AAQ7 Navalatti W 3.7Km 15° 1'30.94"N

76°37'49.56"E

Residential Area

near mining

activities

AAQ8 Tonasigeri SW 5.54 Km 14°58'40.80"N

76°38'15.80"E

Crosswind

Direction


29

FIGURE 3-2 GOOGLE MAP SHOWING THE AIR QUALITY MONITORING LOCATIONS


30

3.3.3 Water Quality Locations

The water samples were collected from6 locations. The details of the sampling

locations are given in Table 3.4 below and shown in Figure 3-2.

TABLE 3-4 Details of the water sample monitoring locations

Ground Water Locations

Sl.

No.

Locatio

n Code Name of Location

Distance(km.)

Boundary of Mine

Lease

Directio

n

GPS

Coordinate

1 GW1 Ubbalagundi 3 Km N 15° 3'0.47"N

76°39'15.41"E

2 GW2 Mallapura 5.8 Km NE 15° 4'10.02"N

76°41'14.37"E

3 GW3 Rajapura 2.7Km NE

15°

1'50.00"N

76°41'16.43"

E

3 GW4 Appavvanahalli 3.1Km S

14°59'39.47"

N76°39'42.0

9"E

4 GW5 Navalatti 3.7Km W

15°

1'30.95"N

76°37'49.57"

E

5 GW6 Nandihalli 9.6Km NW

15°

1'44.79"N

76°34'27.41"

E

6 GW7 Tonasigeri 5.54 Km SW

14°58'41.39"

N76°38'14.8

3"E

7 GW8 Motalakunta 7.39 Km SE

14°58'10.92"

N

76°42'18.70"

E

Surface Water Locations:

1. SW1 Rajapura Kere 2.37 Km NE 15°


31

1'40.75"N

76°41'4.85"E

2. SW2 Marutka Kere 9.6 Km NE

15°

6'14.43"N

76°41'30.96"

E

3. SW3 Ubbalagundi Kere 3.90 Km N

15°

3'24.94"N

76°39'49.07"

E

4. SW4 Avinamodagu Kere 9.5 Km NE

15°

4'50.10"N

76°43'45.60"

E


32

FIGURE 3-3 GOOGLE MAP SHOWING THE GROUND AND SURFACE WATER MONITORING LOCATIONS


33

3.3.4 Noise Monitoring Locations:

The Noise Monitoring Locations were collected from 8 locations. The details of

the sampling locations are given in Table 3.5 below and shown in Figure 3.3.

TABLE 3-5 Details of the Noise monitoring locations

Noise Monitoring Locations:

Sl.

No.

Location

Code Name of Location

Distance(km.)

Boundary of

Mine Lease

Direction GPS Coordinate

1. N1 Drilling Area - - 15° 1'23.96"N

76°39'47.63"E

2. N2 Loading Area - - 15° 1'19.65"N

76°39'48.57"E

3. N3 Dumping Area - - 15° 1'23.93"N

76°39'50.10"E

4. N4 Ubbalagundi 3 Km N 15° 3'2.52"N

76°39'13.92"E

5. N5 Rajapura 2.7 Km NE 15° 1'49.35"N

76°41'12.91"E

6. N6 Appavvanahalli 3.1Km S 14°59'38.69"N

76°39'42.25"E

7. N7 Navalatti 3.7Km W 15° 1'30.94"N

76°37'49.56"E

8. N8 Tonasigeri 5.54 Km SW 14°58'40.80"N

76°38'15.80"E


34

FIGURE 3-4 GOOGLE MAP SHOWING THE NOISE MONITORING LOCATIONS


35

3.3.5 Soil Quality Locations:

The Soil Quality Locations were collected from 8 locations. The details of the

sampling locations are given in Table 3.6 below and shown in Figure 3.4.

TABLE 3-6 Details of the Soil monitoring locations

Soil Sampling Locations:

Sl.

No.

Locatio

n Code Name of Location

Distance(km.)

Boundary of Mine

Lease

Directio

n

GPS

Coordinate

1 S1 Project Site - - 15° 1'23.95"N

76°39'47.63"E

2 S2 Ubbalagundi 3.2 Km N 15° 3'2.52"N

76°39'13.92"E

3 S3 Rajapura 2.7 Km S 15° 1'49.35"N

76°41'12.91"E

4 S4 Appavvanahalli 3.1Km S 14°59'38.69"N

76°39'42.25"E

5 S5 Navalatti 3.7Km W 15° 1'30.94"N

76°37'49.56"E

6 S6 Tonasigeri 5.54 Km SW

14°58'40.80"

N

76°38'15.80"E

7 S7 Nandihalli 9.6Km NW 15° 1'44.79"N

76°34'27.41"E

8 S8 Thimlapura 6.38 Km NE 15° 2'28.46"N

76°43'10.65"E


36

FIGURE 3-5 GOOGLE MAP SHOWING THE SOIL MONITORING LOCATIONS


37

3.4 Sampling Procedure

3.4.1 Micro Meteorological Monitoring

Micro meteorological Data of the study period is procured from Indian

Metrological Data from October, 2021 to December, 2021.

3.4.2 Ambient Air Monitoring

Time averaged in-situ sampling was adopted by passing a known volume of air

through a trap, and a collecting medium (filter paper and bubbler). Fine Dust

Sampler and Respirable Dust Sampler were used for the purpose.

Analytical methods followed for ambient air quality monitoring

Particulate Matter less than 2.5 micron (PM2.5)

The samples for PM2.5 were collected on filter paper by Fine dust sampler

operated at maximum rate of 16.67 lpm and concentrations were determined

gravimetrically on 24 hours’ basis.

Particulate Matter less than 10 micron (PM10)

The samples for PM10 were collected on filter paper by RDS/Fine dust sampler

operated at maximum rate of 1.2 cu.m./min./16.67 lpm and concentrations

were determined gravimetrically on 24 hours’ basis.

Sulphur-dioxide (Improved West & Gaeke Method)

Sulphur-dioxide measurement was done by aspirating a measured volume of air

through sodium tetrachloromercurate solution. It forms a stable dichloro-

sulphitomercurate. The amount of SO2 is estimated by the reading from

spectrophotometer at 560 nm.

Nitrogen Oxides (Modified Jacob & Hochheiser Method)

Nitrogen oxides were estimated by bubbling air through 0.1 N sodium hydroxide

(with sodium arsenate) solution to form a stable solution of sodium nitrite. The

nitrite ion produced during a sampling is determined using spectrophotometer

at 540 nm by reacting the exposed absorbing reagent with phosphoric acid,

sulphanilamide and NEDA.

Carbon Monoxide [IS: 5182 (Part-X) 1976]

Grab sample of ambient air is taken in the sampling tube. The sample is injected

into gas chromatograph (with methaniser) where it is carried from one end of the


38

column to other. During the movement, the carbon monoxide is converted into

methane and sample undergoes distribution at different rates, ultimately

separating from one another. The separated constituents are detected in form of

distinct peaks in the plotter.

Other parameters like Ozone and Ammonia were monitored and analyzed by

Chemical method and Indophenol Blue Method respectively. Benzene, BaP, trace

metals etc. were monitored and analysed as per CPCB guidelines.

3.4.3 Water Quality Monitoring

As per the standard practice, one sample from each station was collected once,

during the season. Grab water samples were collected in plastic container by

standard sampling technique. Necessary precautions were taken for sample

preservation.

The physical parameters viz. pH, temperature & conductivity were measured at

site by using portable water analysis kit. DO was fixed on spot as per Winkler’s

method. Parameters like hardness, colour, taste and odour, residual chlorine

and free ammonia were analysed at the site, immediately after collection of water

samples. The parameters as defined “General Standards for Discharge of

Environmental Pollutions [GSR 422(E) and GSR 801 (E)] were analyzed as per

the procedures defined in IS: 3025 and “standard methods for water and waste

water analysis” (AWWA, APHA).

3.4.4 Ambient Noise Level

Ambient noise level monitoring was done by an integrating sound level meter in

dB (A). Outdoor noise measurements were made at a height of 1.5m, above the

ground and away from sound reflecting sources like walls, buildings etc.

The Ambient noise level monitoring was carried out day and night as given below:

TABLE 3-7 Ambient noise level monitoring

Sl. No. Time (hrs.) Duration (minutes)

1 08:00-11:00 30

2 14:00-17:00 30

3 18:00-21:00 30

4 24:00-03:00 30


39

3.4.5 Soil Quality

Soil samples were collected and analysed by following standard procedures

diagnosis and improvement of Saline and Alkali Soils, Agriculture hand book

no.60 of US Department of Agriculture.

Objective of the study was to determine quality of different soil profiles, their

fertility potential and biological status (from 0 to 30 cm) in the area.

Sampling procedure and analysis

Samples were collected up to the depth of 0-30 cm from the surface at 4 sampling

spots. At each spot, surface litter was scrapped and samples were taken using

depth sampler. These samples were kept for some time for air-drying at room

temperature. Samples were stored in polythene bags with label at the top.

Soil samples were collected with the help of core sampling tube and rammer. The

debris up to the surface was removed with the help of spade, then core of

measured size was kept on the cleaned soil surface which was hit vertically with

the help of rammer. Once the core gets in the soil the soil gets fitted, it was taken

out by digging the surrounding earth with the help of shovel, (A manual

agricultural implement with a curved blade fixed into a wooden handle).

Samples were analysed for the following parameters:

pH

Electrical Conductivity

Nitrogen

Phosphorous

Potassium

Calcium

Magnesium

Organic Carbon

Iron

Boron

Natural Moisture content

Bulk density

Grain size distribution

Cation exchange capacity


40

3.5 Data Analysis

3.5.1 Meteorological Study

Meteorological data for three months has been procured from the Indian

Metrological Department. Calm condition prevailed over 3% of the time of the

study period. The predominant wind directions were ESE over 16.7% of the time

in which speed of 2 to 4 m/s, 6% of the time in speed of 4-6 m/s was recorded.

The next predominant direction was East over 9.6% of the time in which speed

of 2 to 4 m/s was recorded. The seasonal wind rose diagrams for 24 hours period

is given in figure 3-6. Installation of Weather monitoring stations are in process

and the weather station will be installed in a suitable location without much

disturbances near the mine office for regular observation.

FIGURE 3-6 WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF OCTOBER – DECEMBER 2021

The maximum & minimum temperature, relative humidity (%) & Rainfall (mm)

recorded during the season are given below:


41

TABLE 3-8 Maximum &Minimum Temperature, Relative Humidity (%) &

Rainfall (mm)

SL.

No. Month

Parameter

Temperature (0C) Humidity (%) Rainfall

Max. Min. mm

1 October, 2021 31 23 67 37.4

2 November, 2021 33.0 21.4 81 76.5

3 December, 2021 29.1 18.8 63 1.9


42

3.5.2 Ambient Air Quality

Ambient air quality was monitored at 8 locations within 10 km. radius of the

project site. The overall Maximum and Minimum values are discussed below in

Table 3.9

TABLE 3-9 Ambient Air Quality Results Maximum & Minimum Values

S.No.

Parameter PM10(µg/m3) PM2.5(µg/m3) SO2(µg/m3) NO2(µg/m3) CO

(mg/ m3 )

Locations Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max

.

Min.

1. Drilling Area 74 64 40 36 17.9 15.3 28.30 12.33 0.75 0.63

2. Loading Area 80 63 47 35 17.9 13 19.6 15.2 0.57 0.82

3. Dumping Area 73 65 45 37 17.1 13.2 20.2 15.3 0.83 0.59

4. Ubbalagundi 70 65 40 36 17 15.2 19.1 18.1 0.79 0.63

5. Rajapura 74 66 43 37 17.4 16.5 19.8 18.7 0.89 0.69

6. Appavvanahalli 74 65 40 36 17.9 15.6 20.1 18.1 0.82 0.63

7. Navalatti 74 65 43 37 17.2 15.6 19.8 18.1 0.82 0.63

8. Tonasigeri 70 65 41 36 16.8 15.2 19.1 18.1 0.68 0.63

Standard 100 60 80 80 2.0

Out of 8 locations the maximum Respirable Particulate Matter (PM10) was found

to be 80 µg/m3 at loading area & minimum value (63 µg/m3) was found in loading

area.


43

FIGURE 3-7 Maximum & Minimum Values Variation PM10

Out of 8 locations the maximum Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) was found to be

47 µg/m3 at Loading Area & minimum value (35 µg/m3) was found in Loading

Area.

FIGURE 3-8 Maximum & Minimum values variation PM2.5

Highest SO2 (17.90 µg/m3) value was recorded at Drilling area, Loading Arae and

Appavanahalli and lowest SO2 value (13 µg/m3) at Loading Area.

0102030405060708090

PM10 (µg/m3)

PM10(µg/m3) Max PM10(µg/m3) Min

05

101520253035404550

PM2.5 (µg/m3)

PM2.5(µg/m3) Max. PM2.5(µg/m3) Min.


44

FIGURE 3-9 Maximum & Minimum values variation SO2

Similarly, highest NO2 (28.3 µg/cu.m.) value was found at Drilling area and

lowest NO2 value (12.33 µg/cu.m.) was recorded at Drilling Area.

FIGURE 3-10 Maximum & Minimum values various No2

02468

101214161820

SO2(µg/m3)

SO2(µg/m3) Max. SO2(µg/m3) Min.

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

NO2(µg/m3)

NO2(µg/m3) Max. NO2(µg/m3) Min.


45

FIGURE 3-11 Maximum & Minimum values various CO

Similarly, highest CO (0.89 mg/ m3) value was found at Rajapura Village and

lowest CO value (0.63 µg/cu.m.) was recorded at many areas.

3.5.3 Water Quality

Surface water and Ground Water Quality

The Surface water quality monitoring was done at 4 locations within 10 km.

radius area of lease and 8 Ground water samples collected from different

locations the monitoring results are as follows:

00.10.20.30.40.50.60.70.80.9

1

CO (mg/ m3 )

CO (mg/ m3 ) Max. CO (mg/ m3 ) Min.


46

TABLE 3-10 Ground water Quality Results

Sl N

o

Co

de

No

Lo

catio

ns

Co

lou

r (Ha

zen

un

it)

Od

ou

r

Tu

rbid

ity a

s (NT

U)

pH

To

tal

Disso

lve

d

So

lids a

s TD

S (m

g/

l)

Alk

alin

ity a

s Ca

CO

3

(mg

/l)

To

tal

Ha

rdn

ess

as

Ca

CO

3 (m

g/

l)

Ca

lcium

a

s C

a

(mg

/l)

Ma

gn

esiu

m

as

Mg

(m

g/

l)

So

diu

m a

s Na

(mg

/l)

Po

tassiu

m

as

K

(mg

/l)

Ch

lorid

e

as

Cl

(mg

/l)

Su

lph

ate

a

s S

O4

(m

g/

l)

Nitra

te

Nitro

ge

n

as

NO

3 (m

g/

l)

Flu

orid

es

as

F

(mg

/l)

Iron

as F

e (m

g/

l)

Co

pp

er a

s Cu

(mg

/l)

Ma

ng

an

ese

a

s M

n

(mg

/l)

Me

rcury

as

Hg

(m

g/

l)

Alu

min

ium

a

s A

l (m

g/

l)

Ca

dm

ium

a

s C

d

(mg

/l)

Arse

nic a

s As (m

g/

l)

Le

ad

as P

b (m

g/

l)

Zin

c as Z

n (m

g/

l)

To

tal

Ch

rom

ium

a

s C

r (mg

/l)

1 GW1 Ubbalagundi BDL Agreeable 1.3 7.04 356.7 150 278.4 56.1 22.2 38.7 1.5 53.8

68.4 13.2

0.51 0.12 BDL

BDL BDL

BDL BDL

BDL

BDL

0.13 BDL

2 GW2 Mallapura BDL Agreeable 1 8.8 386.7

3 176 265.5 65.42 26 42.9 2.1

90.4

44.8 12 0.47 0.25 BDL

BDL BDL

BDL BDL

BDL

BDL

0.14 BDL

3 GW3 Rajapura BDL Agreeable BDL

7.4 288 168.2

1 200.0

5 54.6 17.2 29 2.5

57.4

38.6 12.4

0.52 0.22 BDL

BDL BDL

BDL BDL

BDL

BDL

0.15 BDL

3 GW4 Appavvanahalli

BDL Agreeable BDL

7.2 326 184 212.5 50.6 21.7 36.7 1.41 24.6

67.8 12.3

0.56 0.27 BDL

BDL BDL

BDL BDL

BDL

BDL

0.08 BDL

4 GW5 Navalatti BDL Agreeable BDL

7.3 303.4 167.7 200.1

2 54.3 15.4 32.3 1.7

36.3

48.2 9.2 0.61 0.32 BDL

BDL BDL

BDL BDL

BDL

BDL

0.17 BDL

5 GW6 Nandihalli BDL Agreeable BDL

7.2 252.6 181.3 212.1 43.1 9.2 27.9 2.8 31.2

32.3 6.6 1.26 0.23 BDL

BDL BDL

BDL BDL

BDL

BDL

0.14 BDL

6 GW7 Tonasigeri BDL Agreeable BDL

7.2 350.2 193.1 227.3 57.6 17.8 33.6 1.24 23.2

65.7 10.3

0.58 0.23 BDL

BDL BDL

BDL BDL

BDL

BDL

0.13 BDL

7 GW8 Motalakunta BDL Agreeable BDL

7.37 347 159 256.1

1 62.5 15.9 38.3 2.1

87.5

40.3 13.16

0.67 0.19 BDL

BDL BDL

BDL BDL

BDL

BDL

0.08 BDL


47

TABLE 3-11 Surface water Quality Results

Sl No

Co

de N

o

Lo

cation

s

Co

lou

r (H

azen u

nit)

Od

ou

r

pH

To

tal Su

spen

ded

So

lids as T

SS (m

g/l)

To

tal D

issolv

ed

Solid

s as

TD

S (mg/l)

Ch

emical

Oxy

gen

Dem

and

as

CO

D (m

g/l)

Bio

chem

ical O

xygen

D

eman

d

as B

OD

(mg/l)

Oil &

Grease

(mg/l)

Ch

lorid

e as

Cl (m

g/l)

Sulp

hate

as SO

4 (mg/l)

Flu

orid

es as

F (m

g/l)

Ph

osp

hate

as P

O4

(mg/l)

Iron

as

Fe

(mg/l)

Sulp

hid

e as

S2

- (mg/l)

1 SW1 Rajapura Kere 20.7 Agreeable 7 40.1 410.2 13.5 BDL BDL 18 17.5 0.12 0.14 0.3 BDL

2 SW2 Marutka Kere 20.7 Agreeable 7.6 40 390.56 13.2 BDL BDL 17.8 17.6 0.1 0.14 0.31 BDL

3 SW3 Ubbalagundi Kere 20.2 Agreeable 7 38.7 380.73 12.9 BDL BDL 17.6 15.8 0.14 0.17 0.31 BDL

4 SW4 Avinamodagu Kere 18.7 Agreeable 6.8 38.7 402.6 14.2 BDL BDL 17.7 16.4 0.12 0.14 0.37 BDL


48

The ground water and the surface water quality from all the locations as

mentioned above is used for drinking purpose. The result shows that all the

parameters are well within the acceptable limit of IS: 10500.

3.5.4 Noise

The noise level survey was carried out at 8 locations and the details of the survey are given hereunder:

TABLE 3-12 NOISE LEVELS RESULTS OF THE STUDY AREA

Station Code

Noise level in dB(A)

Max. Min. Day

(leq)

Night

(leq)

Ambient Noise Level (dBA)

N-1 Drilling Area 53.67 42.78 49.68 41.77

N-2 Loading Area 54.92 41.79 50.11 41.60

N-3 Dumping Area 53.66 42.11 49.43 41.35

N-4 Ubbalagundi 41.29 37.26 39.81 33.74

N-5 Rajapura 45.76 33.84 41.39 33.21

N-6 Appavvanahalli 43.21 32.55 39.30 31.46

N-7 Navalatti 41.74 39.64 40.97 35.41

N-8 Tonasigeri 40.45 32.63 37.58 30.50

3.5.5 Ambient Noise Level

Ambient noise level at Drilling area, Loading Area and Dumping Area were found

to be 49.68, 50.11 & 49.43 dB (A) in day time and 41.77, 41.60 & 41.35 dB (A)

in night time respectively. All the values are well within the prescribed limit of

75 and 70 dB (A), for industrial and residential areas in day and night time

respectively. Ambient Noise level at Ubbalagundi (N-4), Rajapura (N-5),

Appavvanahalli (N-6), Navalatti (N-7) and Tonasigeri (N-8) were 41.29 and 37.26,

45.76 and 33.84, 43.21 and 32.55, 41.74 and 39.64 & 40.45 and 32.63 in day

and night time respectively. The noise levels were found to be within the

prescribed limit of 55 dB (A) &45dB (A) for residential area in day and night time

respectivel


49

3.5.6 Soil Quality

The data analysis of the soil monitoring results collected nearby lease area is given below

From the results it can be concluded that the pH of soil is normal ranging 7.2-7.5, average nitrogen values were

in low to medium range (176-205 kg/ha), average potassium value is also in the range of low to high (153-162

kg/ha). The average phosphorus values were found to be medium (96-117 kg/ha).

TABLE 3-13 Soil quality monitoring Result

Sl No

Locations

Pro

ject S

ite

Ubbala

gun

di

Raja

pura

Appavvan

ah

al

li

Navala

tti

To

na

sige

ri

Nan

dih

alli

Th

imla

pura

Parameters S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8

1 pH (Ratio 1:2) 7.4 7.4 7.24 7.3 7.2 7.4 7.5 7.25

2 Elec. Conductivity (µ mhos/cm) (Ratio 1:2) 368.2 368.2 402.07 412.46 406 415.24 415 406

3 Available Nitrogen as N(kg/ha) 176.4 176.4 199.75 187.72 202 204.5 204 205.2

4 Available Phosphorous as P2O5(kg/ha) 96.01 96.01 104.76 117 113 105 106 101.5

5 Available Sodium as Na2O (kg/ha) 84.52 84.52 98.94 103.2 110.5 106.5 106.5 105.15

6 Available Potassium as K2O(kg/ha) 161.78 161.78 156.78 158.4 153.82 163.5 165.5 158.95

7 Available Calcium as Ca (kg/ha) 354.72 354.72 310.44 300.4 314.6 316.2 317.7 312.7

8 Available Magnesium as Mg (kg/ha) 143.27 143.27 210.84 212.7 212.31 213.5 215.5 212.65

9 Available Chloride as Cl (kg/ha) 35.31 35.31 64.75 65.43 67.46 64.95 68.4 65.24

10 Organic Carbon (%) 1.14 1.14 1.07 1.12 1.13 1.1 1.15 1.12


50

3.6 Socio-Economic Scenario

The socio-economic scenario in the 10 km radius of the project is based on

secondary data collected from statistical records. 2011 census data has been

used for demographic features. The study area comprises of 26 census villages

with a total population of 47783.

3.6.1 Demographic Features of Study Area-Rural

The villages falling within the study area are listed in the below table 3.14 along

with the demographic features as per the census 2011.

TABLE 3-14 SHOWING THE LIST OF VILLAGES WITH THE POPULATION

Sl No Village Name

No of

House holds Population male Female

Sex Ratio

1 Marutla 43 205 108 97 1.11

2 Ubbalgundi 348 1,713 876 837 1.05

3 Malapur 197 1,155 563 592 0.95

4 Thimlapura 95 519 269 250 1.08

5 Rajapura 529 2,696 1,402 1,294 1.08

6 Mallapur 88 473 241 232 1.04

7 Mothulakunta 227 1,190 587 603 0.97

8 Appavanahalli 622 3,015 1,496 1,519 0.98

9 Gollaligammanahalli 376 1,969 1,003 966 1.04

10 Tonasigeri 254 1,286 639 647 0.99

11 Swamy halli 314 1,486 731 755 0.97

12 Viitalanagar 206 1,109 568 541 1.05

13 Nandihalli 421 2,259 1,193 1,066 1.12

14 Ranjithpur 267 1,375 724 651 1.11

15 Narasingpur 461 2,291 1,169 1,122 1.04

16 Hanumanagudda 0 0 0 0 0.00

17 Avinamadugu 86 447 222 225 0.99

18 Ayyanahalli 0 0 0 0 0.00

19 Bommanagutta 706 3,946 2,043 1,903 1.07

20 Donimalai Township 1,660 6,672 3,447 3,225 1.07

21 Nagenahalli 177 843 455 388 1.17

22 Rampur 87 506 264 242 1.09

23 Eredammanahalli 298 1,466 750 716 1.05

24 Navalatti 150 450 250 150 1.67

25 Devagiri 701 3,606 1,860 1,746 1.07


51

26 Bandravi 1,313 7,106 3,506 3,600 0.97

The summary of the demographic features is given in Table. 3.15 and discussed

in the following paragraphs:

Population

The total population of 26 villages is 47783. The % of Schedule Caste (SC) and

Schedule Tribe (ST) to the total population is 21 & 34 respectively.

FIGURE 3-12 % OF POPULATION IN STUDY AREA

Village size

The total households in the 26 villages are 9626. The average household per

village is 370.

House hold size

The average household size is 4.9 in rural area.

Sex Ratio

The sex ratio of the study area is 990 females per thousand male populations in

rural area. The percentage of male and female population to the total population

is 51% and 49% respectively.

SC21%

ST34%

OTHERS45%

Population Percentage (%)

SC ST OTHERS


52

FIGURE 3-13 CHART SHOWING THE MALE TO FEMALE POPULATION

Literacy

The percentage of literacy in the area is 56%.

The % male and female literacy to the total population is 59% & 41% respectively.

Male51%

Female49%

MALE TO FEMALE POPULATION

Male Female

Literates56%

Illiterates44%

Total Literacy to Illiteracy Percentage

Literates Illiterates


53

FIGURE 3-14 PERCENTAGE LITERACY RATE OF THE STUDY AREA

Occupational structure of the study area

The percentage of total workers to the total population of the rural area is 44%

in which male constitutes 63% and female constitutes 37% and remaining 56%

constitute non-workers.

Male59%

Female41%

Percentage Literacy

Male Female

Total Workers44%Total Non-

workers56%

Employment vs Unemployment Chart

Total Workers Total Non-workers


54

FIGURE 3-15 PERCENTAGE EMPLOYMENT SCENARIO IN STUDY AREA

TABLE 3-15 DEMOGRAPHIC FEATURES AS PER THE CENSUS 2011

Sl. Details No./%

1 Total population 47783

2 No. of House hold 9626

3 Average family size 4.9

4 Average no. of house hold per village 370

5 Average population per village 1838

6 Sex ratio–females per thousand males 990

7 Percent of male population to total population 51

8 Percent of female population to total population 49

9 Percent of SC population to the total population 21

10 Percent of ST population to the total population 34

11 Percent of literate population to the total population 56

12 Percent of Male literate population to the total

population

59

13 Percent of Female literate population to the total

population

41

14 Percent of total worker to the total population 44

16 Percent of non-worker to the total population 56

Basic issues which needs to be addressed are related to the following:

Education & communication

Advanced Health care &drinking water sources to be enhanced

Alternative Livelihood & environmental protection

Sports & culture

Infrastructure development including road, transportation etc.

63%

37%

Total Employement Male vs Female

Male Female

41%59%

Total Unemployment male vs female

Male Female


55

Financial inclusion through enhanced banking facilities

Entertainment

3.7 Flora and Fauna

Study of the biological environment is one of the most important aspects of EIA.

Mining leases area is mainly located in the forest area. The biological

communities are the good indicators of climatic and edaphic factors. It is

important to conserve natural flora and fauna based on EIA of an area. EIA helps

to identify the impact of mining on the ecosystem and to check the damage. It is

also suggested remedial measures to be taken so that a particular ecosystem can

improve instead of further damage. In the present study mainly, terrestrial

ecosystem has been considered.

The study was under taken during generation of baseline study period from

October to December, 2021.

The list of flora and fauna in the core and buffer zone is based on the site visit

and secondary data. The list of flora and fauna in the core and buffer zone is

presented in the report. Impact of the mine on flora and fauna is discussed in

Chapter-4. The mitigation measures and funds have been discussed in Chapter-

5 in brief.

3.7.1 Scope

To assess the flora and fauna present in the core zone (lease area) and in

Buffer zone (10 Km radius range) of Rajapur Iron Ore Mine of Smt K. M.

Parvathamma project.

To document cultivated and naturally occurring species in the core zone

Assessment of species protected by specific legislation (Rare, endangered,

critically endangered, endemic and vulnerable)

To identify designated location and features of ecological significance

3.7.2 Activities Undertaken During the Study

1. Flora survey

Tree, shrub, herb, climber, grass species etc. identification and

enumeration

Diversity of species

Analysis of Rare-Endangered-Threatened flora

2. Fauna survey

Documentation of Avian, Reptilian, Mammal and other faunal diversity


56

Observations by direct and indirect evidences (Direct evidence- Sighting

and hearing, Indirect evidence- Pug marks, nests and other signs

Analysis of Scheduled species

3. Habitat/microhabitat diversity in the project zone and surrounding areas.

4. Photo documentation

3.7.3 Survey Limitation

This survey records the evidence of flora and fauna existence during the site

visit and field survey. It does not record any flora or fauna that may appear

during other times of the year, and as such, were not evident at the time of

visit. The report represents ecological status of the area during the particular

period of the study.

This is an ecological report and as such no reliance should be given to

comments relating to buildings, engineering, soils or other unrelated matters.

3.7.4 Approach of the Study

To assess the ecological issues and document flora and fauna associated with

the project following tasks were undertaken:

1. Preliminary site visit

2. Desk Study

3. Core zone and Buffer Zone Survey

3.7.5 Methodology

Desk Study

In order to understand the ecological status of the project site and study area,

random plots will be laid at the project site and the entire study area of 10 Km

radius. sampling location will be selected depending upon prevailing land use

and topography. list of existing flora and fauna with IUCN and RET status will

be recorded. Complete tree enumeration will be carried in the project site,

whereas in study area 3 sampling location is selected.

The purpose of desk study is to identify habitats and species of local conservation

value which may not have been present or apparent during the survey visit e.g.

spring/monsoon plants. Desk study is also helpful in understanding the

historical biodiversity and ecological status of the site.


57

The desk study is carried out by literature survey and study of relevant

webpage’s in respect of ecology and biodiversity of the region. The information

has been collected specific to the region and quoted in the report accordingly.

Forest working plan of Bellary (2022-2023), IUCN Red Data Book, Wildlife

Schedules from Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, FRLHT, Handbook on Weed

identification (Dr. Naidu, 2012) and Common Dry Land Trees of Karnataka

(Kavitha, 2012) will be used for the identification. Consultation with local people

and respective Forest Divisions will also be carried out during the site visit to

understand the distribution of fauna in the region. The unidentified species shall

be photographed and the specimens shall be collected and verified by using BSI,

FRLHT data base and will be cross checked with experts.

Habitat Survey

This survey involves in collecting flora and fauna at various strategies. These

strategies differed as per habit and habitat of concerned group of species.

Flora

The structure and composition of vegetation / forest cover was studied by using

Phytosociological methods. Field surveys were undertaken to analyze and

estimate diversity, density, dominance and frequency of different members of

plant population.

Observations were made in the forest area as well as in non-forest areas by laying

plots and adopting quadrate method. The quadrate method includes preparation

of square sample plots or units for quantitative analysis of vegetation. The

sample plot method given by Clements (1898); Philips (1959); Muller and

Ellenberg (1974) and Rau and Wooten (1988) EIA Hand Book (ch.7, pp.44) was

followed.

Co-existence and competition both are affected directly by number of individuals

in the community. Therefore, it is essential to know the quantitative structure of

the community. To characterise the community as a whole, certain derived

parameters are used i.e. Density, Frequency, Abundance.

The Simpson Diversity Index gives a clear picture of community structure in

quantitative terms. To summarize the above, following parameters were used

during Floristic diversity and Phytosociological assessment:

1. Density, Frequency, Abundance

2. Simpsons Index

a) Simpsons Index (D)

b) Simpson's Index of Diversity (1 – D)


58

c) Simpson's Reciprocal Index (1/D)

Fauna and Avifauna

The assessment of wild fauna was made based on random sightings. The

secondary evidences were also recorded through calls, dung boles, scats, and

spoors, rub signs, signs of debarking, drag mark etc. for identification of fauna.

For birds, actual counts at each sampling site were made, by walk through in a

chosen one kilometer stretch of the site and the number of birds were directly

counted and listed. Species list was prepared along with taxonomic position of

each species.

3.7.6 Sampling Stations

Majority of the region and the study area falling in 10 km radius, consists of

mining projects, allied and other commercial activities. Therefore, sampling

locations were strategically selected to collect the maximum data on vegetation

pattern, faunal diversity and habitat diversity. The details of sampling locations

are given in the Table3.16.

TABLE 3-16 SAMPLING LOCATIONS OF THE STUDY AREA

Observations

Observations are made for all possible habitats and flora-fauna species in and

around the Rajapura Iron Ore Mine (except micro-organisms). All possible

landscape features within core zone have been collected. The observations

recorded are site, time and season specific observations. However, the actual

observation data was supported by data obtained from secondary sources i.e.

reports, research papers, literature survey etc.

Since it is a mining project, the impact of the project can be multifold and

therefore the ecological richness and sensitivity of the locations were examined

critically.

Sl no Location GPS Location Criteria

1 Donimalai Reserve Forest 15° 4'33.04"N, 76°36'37.48"E

Reserve Forests 2 Tonasigeri Reserve Forest 14°57'56.32"N, 76°40'38.85"E

3 Metriki Reserve Forest 15° 2'19.04"N, 76°43'56.98"E


59

FIGURE 3-16 ECOLOGICAL STUDIES SAMPLING LOCATION


60

3.7.7 Habitat and Forest Type Diversity

The location of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine falls in Ballari district of Karnataka State.

The study area falling in 10 km radius is diverse in habitat and therefore study

of Habitat and Forest type diversity was undertaken to known different types of

habitats and forests that are prevalent in the region.

Habitats are decisive factors and determine the diversity and distribution of flora

and fauna in any given ecosystem. Therefore, it is vital to understand dynamics

and diversity of habitats and ecosystems in and around the Rajapura Iron Ore

Mine of Smt K.M. Parvathamma project. The overall examination was carried out

by site visits at various pre-marked locations in the core zone and the region

falling within the 10 km radius of the project i.e. Buffer zone.

The biotic environment can be described under following heads.

• Core Zone

• Buffer Zone

• Bandri RF and Bandri Extension RF: Hardwickia-Dindiga-Dhoopa- Sundra

Forest: Contains good growth of Tectona grandis, Hardwickia binata, Albizia

amara and some Acacia species. Other important species include Anogeissus

latifolia, Boswellia serrata, Stereospermum chelonoides etc.,

• Metriki RF: This forest contains a fair growth of Hardwickia binata along

with other species such as Albizzia amara, Stereosperumum and Acacia

sundra, Anogeissus, latifolia, Grewia tiliaefolia, Wrightia tinctoria and

Soymida febrifuga. Cassia fistula and Pongamia pinnata are also found amid

Eucalyptus plantations here and there.

• Marutla RF & NE Extension: The forest is covered with fairly good growth

of Albizia amara, Acacia sundra, Grewia tiliaefolia and Hardwickia binata.

Other species include Cassia fistula, Azadirachta indica, etc.

• Tonasigere RF: Grassy hill with western aspect containing more or less

sparse deciduous growth of various species. The lower portions are

practically bare but along the streams and in the water-sheds the forest is

half to fully stocked. In some of the valleys Teak occurs, which is

considerably hacked about. Under proper treatment, this species could be

considerably developed

• Ubbalagandi RF, Extension RF & North Extension RF: Three fourths of

the Ubbalagandi RF areas are clothed with Hardwickia binata, Soymida

febrifuga, Albizzia lebbek, Albizzia amara, Acacia leucophloea and other

Acacias. The remaining one-fourth is covered with grass. The Extension


61

forest contains fairly good growth of Hardwickia binata and Acacia sundra.

The North Extension forest contains scattered hillocks with a fair growth of

Dolichandrone crispa, Albizzia amara and Acacia sundra etc.,

3.7.8 Flora of project site

A total Number of 16 trees species (n=40) belonging to 8 families were found in

Project site, the predominant tree species recorded were Acacia

auriculiformis Benth. (n=6), Tectona grandis L.f. (n=5) and Mangifera indica L.

(n=4). All the recorded species are common to region and no RET species were

recorded. All tree species are used for medicinal, edible and some are used for

timber and wood purpose. As per the IUCN conservation status 2022,

Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb.is Near threatened and Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. Is

Vulnerable species recorded in the project site rest of the species is Least

concerned and not assessed.

The girth class distribution shows that maximum number of stems falls under

30-60 cm girth class (29 trees) which contributes 72.5 % of the total individuals

followed by 60-90 cm girth class (11 tress) which contributes 27.5 % of the total

individuals. Maximum Basal area of tree species at project site was found in

Tectona grandis L.f (0.2098 m2/ha), minimum Basal area was found in Dalbergia

latifolia Roxb. (0.010 m2/ha). The carbon sequestration capacity of existing trees

in the project site was estimated to be 2.098 t/yr of which Tectona grandis L.f

(0.510 t/yr), Acacia auriculiformis Benth. (0.307 t/yr), Butea

monosperma var. lutea (0.280 t/yr) are major carbon sequesters in the area.

9 species of Herbs, 7 species of shrubs and 2 climbers were recorded at project

site. As per the IUCN conservation status 2022, most of the species is not

assessed and rest is least concerned.

The checklist of recorded Trees given in Table 3.17.


62

TABLE 3-17 CHECKLIST OF TREES RECORDED AT THE PROJECT SITE

Sl

no Scientific name Local name Family

No.

observed

IUCN

Conservation

status 2022

RET

status Uses

1 Tectona grandis L.f. Tega Verbenaceae 5 Not assessed Common Timber

2 Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. Honne mara Fabaceae 2 Near threatened Common Medicinal and

Timber

3 Lagerstroemia speciosa Deepu

& Pandur. Nandi mara Lytharaceae 3 Not assessed Common Medicinal, folk

4 Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. Beete mara Fabaceae 1 Vulnerable Common Medicinal

5 Wrightia laevis Hook.f. Halle Apocynaceae 2 Least concern Common Medicinal

6 Butea monosperma var. lutea Muthugada

mara Fabaceae 3 Least concern Common Ornamental

7 Acacia auriculiformis Benth. Kadu seege Fabaceae 6 Least concern Common Pulp wood

8 Mangifera indica L. Mavina mara Anacardiaceae 4 Data deficient Common Edible and Fuel

wood

9 Pongamia pinnata (L.)Pierre Honge Fabaceae 3 Least concern Common Medicinal

10 Annona squamosa L. Sithapala Annonaceae 2 Least concern Common Medicinal and edible

11 Magnolia champaca (L.) Baill.

ex Pierre Sampige mara Magnoliaceae 1 Least concern Common Ornamental

12 Vachellia nilotica (L.)

P.J.H.Hurter & Mabb Kari jali Fabaceae 3 Least concern Common Timber

13 Tamarindus indica L. Hunase mara Fabaceae 1 Least concern Common Edible and medicinal

14 Hardwickia binata Roxb. Kamara Fabaceae 1 Least concern Common Medicinal and

dyeing

15 Azadirachta indica A.Juss. Bevu Meliaceae 2 Least concern Common Medicinal, edible

and traditional

16 Leucaena leucocephala C.E.

Hughes Chigurakku Fabaceae 1 Not assessed Common

Fodder, fuel wood

and medicinal

Total 40

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apocynaceae

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annonaceae


63

TABLE 3-18 GIRTH DISTRIBUTION OF TREES AT PROJECT SITE

Sl no Girth class No. observed Percentage

1 30-60 29 72.5

2 60-90 11 27.5

Total 40 100

TABLE 3-19 BASAL AREA AND CARBON SEQUESTRATION OF TREE SPECIES AT PROJECT SITE

Sl no Scientific name Basal area

(m2/ha)

Total CO2 in

tonnes

1 Acacia auriculiformis Benth. 0.130 0.307

2 Annona squamosa L. 0.019 0.031

3 Azadirachta indica A.Juss. 0.025 0.044

4 Butea monosperma var. lutea 0.153 0.280

5 Dalbergia latifolia Roxb. 0.010 0.033

6 Hardwickia binata Roxb. 0.015 0.034

7 Lagerstroemia speciosa Deepu & Pandur. 0.083 0.184

8 Leucaena leucocephala C.E. Hughes 0.039 0.105

9 Magnolia champaca (L.) Baill. ex Pierre 0.035 0.045

10 Mangifera indica L. 0.043 0.070

11 Pongamia pinnata (L.)Pierre 0.042 0.085

12 Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. 0.033 0.073

13 Tamarindus indica L. 0.039 0.089

14 Tectona grandis L.f. 0.208 0.510

15 Vachellia nilotica (L.) P.J.H.Hurter &

Mabb 0.042 0.089

16 Wrightia laevis Hook.f. 0.041 0.118

Total 0.957 2.098


64

TABLE 3-20 CHECKLISTS OF HERBS, SHRUBS AND CLIMBERS AT PROJECT SITE

Sl.

No Scientific Name Local name Family

IUCN Conservation

Status-2022

RET

Status Uses

Shrubs

1 Calotropis procera R.BR. Bili aekka Asclepiadaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

2 Canthium parviflorum L. Achchumullu Rubiaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

3 Abutilon hirtum (Lam.) Sweet Tutti Malvaceae Not Assessed Common Edible, medicinal

4 Dodonaea viscosa (L. fil.) J.G.West Bandarike Sapindaceae Least Concern Common Medicinal

5 Chromolaena odorata (L.) R. King & H. Rob. Kamyunist kale Asteraceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

6 Lantana camara L. Beli gida Verbenaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal &

ornamental

7 Solanum torvum Swartz Kaada kallatti Solanaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

Herbs

1 Agave americana L. Kantala Asparagaceae Least Concern Common Edible, medicinal

2 Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f. Aloe vera Liliaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

3 Anisomeles indica (L.) Kuntze hennu karee thumbe Lamiaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

4 Achyranthes aspera L. Uttaranee Amaranthacea Not Assessed Common Medicinal

5 Boerhavia diffusa L. nom. cons. Adakaputtana gida Nyctaginaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

6 Cassia tora Sensu Auct. Tagache Caesalpiniaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

7 Chloris barbata SW Sevaragu Poaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

8 Asparagus racemosus WILLD. Aashaadi balli Liliaceae Not Assessed Common Edible and medicinal

9 Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don Ganeshanahoo Apocynaceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal and

Ornamental

Climbers

1 Cardiospermum halicacabum L. Agnibali Sapindaceae Least Concern Common Medicinal

2 Ipomoea carnea Jace. Bush morning glory Convolvulaceae Not Assessed Common Ornamental


65

3.7.9 Flora of Study area

The buffer zone area has considered 10 km from mine boundary.

A total Number of 20 trees species (n=48) belonging to 11 families were found in

study area, the predominant tree species recorded were Pongamia pinnata

(L.)Pierre. (n=6), Cocos nucifera L.. (n=5), Eucalyptus globulus Labill and

Azadirachta indica A.Juss. (n=4). All the recorded species are common to region

and no RET species were recorded. All tree species are used for medicinal, edible

and some are used for timber and wood purpose. As per the IUCN conservation

status 2022, most of the species is Least concerned and rest of the species is Not

assessed.

The girth class distribution shows that maximum number of stems falls under

30-60 cm girth class (33 trees) which contributes 68.75 % of the total individuals

followed by 60-90 cm girth class (14 tress) which contributes 29.17 % of the total

individuals. Maximum Basal area of tree species at project site was found in

Cocos nucifera L. (0.088 m2/ha), minimum Basal area was found in Albizia

lebbeck (L.) Benth and Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.)Benth. (0.007 m2/ha). The

carbon sequestration capacity of existing trees in the study area was estimated

to be 3.249 t/yr of which Cocos nucifera L. (0.878 t/yr), Eucalyptus globulus

Labill (0.513 t/yr), Delonix regia (Hook.) Raf. (0.228 t/yr) are major carbon

sequesters in the area.

10 species of Herbs, 5 species of shrubs and 3 climbers were recorded at Study

area. As per the IUCN conservation status 2022, most of the species is not

assessed and rest is least concerned.

The Importance Value Index (IVI) shows the complete or overall picture of

ecological importance of the species in a community. Community structure study

is made by studying frequency, density, abundance and basal cover of species.

A tree with greater IVI values includes Cocos nucifera L. (IVI-40.8) and Pongamia

pinnata (L.)Pierre. (IVI-28.8) with least one being Albizia lebbeck (L.)Benth and

Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr. (IVI-6.7). In addition to these, diversity indices

such as Shannon-Weiner diversity index were calculated, which is used to


66

characterize the species diversity in a community taking into account both

evenness and abundance of the species present. Shannon-Weiner diversity in

study area is estimated to be 2.8. Simpson’s Index in study area was estimated

to be 0.95, which shows the diversity in the study area is 1 indicating high

density.


67

TABLE 3-21 CHECKLIST OF TREES RECORDED AT STUDY AREA

Sl


No.

observed

IUCN

Conservation

status 2022

RET

status Uses

1 Azadirachta indica A.Juss. Bevu Meliaceae 4 Least Concern Common Medicinal, edible and

traditional

2 Acacia auriculiformis Benth. Kadu seege Fabaceae 2 Least Concern Common Pulp wood

3 Albizia lebbeck (L.)Benth. Baage Fabaceae 1 Least Concern Common Timber


Hughes Chigurakku Fabaceae 1 Not assessed Common Timber

5 Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.)

K.Heyne

Bettada

hunise Caesalpiniaceae 1 Not assessed Common Edible and timber

6 Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.)

Wight & Arn. Arjuna mara Combretaceae 2 Not assessed Common Edible and medicinal

7 Cocos nucifera L. Tengu Arecaceae 5 Not assessed Common Edible and Medicinal

8 Delonix regia (Hook.) Raf. May tree Fabaceae 3 Least Concern Common Ornamental

9 Pongamia pinnata (L.)Pierre Honge Fabaceae 6 Least Concern Common Medicinal

10 Eucalyptus globulus Labill Nilagiri Myrtaceae 4 Least Concern Common Medicinal

11 Prosopis cineraria (L.) DRUCE Banni mara Mimosaceae 2 Not assessed Common Timber and

Traditional

12 Vachellia nilotica (L.)

P.J.H.Hurter & Mabb Kari jali Fabaceae 3 Least Concern Common Timber

13 Phoenix sylvestris (L.) Roxb. Echallu mara Arecaceae 2 Not assessed Common Medicinal, Edible,

ornamental

14 Pithecellobium

dulce (Roxb.)Benth. Seeme hunase Fabaceae 2 Least Concern Common

Edible, medicinal and

agroforestry

15 Ziziphus jujuba Lam Bore Hannu Rhamnaceae 1 Least Concern Common Edible and medicinal

16 Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br. aelele haale Apocynaceae 2 Least Concern Common

Ornamental

Homeopathy and

Medicinal

17 Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr. Male mara Fabaceae 1 Least Concern Common Edible and medicinal


68

Sl


No.

observed

IUCN

Conservation

status 2022

RET

status Uses

18 Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.)

Thwaites Ashoka mara Annonaceae 4 Not assessed Common

Ornamental and

windbreak

19 Simarouba glauca DC. Simaruba Simaroubaceae 1 Least Concern Common Medicinal

20 Terminalia catappa L. Badami Combertaceae 1 Least Concern Common Edible, medicinal and

Agroforestry

Total 48

TABLE 3-22 GIRTH DISTRIBUTION OF TREES AT STUDY AREA

Sl no Girth class No. observed Percentage

1 30-60 33 68.75

2 60-90 14 29.17

3 90-120 1 2.08

Total 48 100.00

TABLE 3-23 BASAL AREA AND CARBON SEQUESTRATION OF TREE SPECIES AT STUDY AREA

Sl no. Scientific name Basal area

(m2/ha) Total CO2 in tonnes

1 Acacia auriculiformis Benth. 0.010 0.098

2 Albizia lebbeck (L.)Benth. 0.007 0.047

3 Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br. 0.010 0.046

4 Azadirachta indica A.Juss. 0.015 0.102

5 Cocos nucifera L. 0.088 0.878

6 Delonix regia (Hook.) Raf. 0.034 0.228

7 Eucalyptus globulus Labill 0.056 0.513

8 Leucaena leucocephala C.E. Hughes 0.008 0.059

9 Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.) K.Heyne 0.017 0.101


69

Sl no. Scientific name Basal area

(m2/ha) Total CO2 in tonnes

10 Phoenix sylvestris (L.) Roxb. 0.012 0.046

11 Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.)Benth. 0.007 0.036

12 Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.) Thwaites 0.036 0.348

13 Pongamia pinnata (L.)Pierre 0.030 0.210

14 Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce 0.007 0.045

15 Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr. 0.007 0.047

16 Simarouba glauca DC. 0.010 0.091

17 Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) Wight & Arn. 0.010 0.060

18 Terminalia catappa L. 0.013 0.096

19 Vachellia nilotica (L.) P.J.H.Hurter &

Mabb 0.029 0.147

20 Ziziphus jujuba Lam 0.009 0.051

Total 0.413 3.249

TABLE 3-24 PHYTO SOCIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF TREES AT STUDY AREA

Sl.

No Scientific Name

Phyto-sociological parameters

No. O Density Frequency BA Do RD Rdo RF IVI

1 Acacia auriculiformis Benth. 2 3 0.67 100.00 0.010 0.023 4.167 2.328 9.091 15.6

2 Albizia lebbeck (L.)Benth. 1 1 0.33 33.33 0.007 0.016 2.083 1.606 3.030 6.7

3 Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br. 2 2 0.67 66.67 0.010 0.023 4.167 2.328 6.061 12.6

4 Azadirachta indica A.Juss. 4 3 1.33 100.00 0.015 0.036 8.333 3.621 9.091 21.0

5 Cocos nucifera L. 5 3 1.67 100.00 0.088 0.213 10.417 21.306 9.091 40.8

6 Delonix regia (Hook.) Raf. 3 2 1.00 66.67 0.034 0.082 6.250 8.172 6.061 20.5

7 Eucalyptus globulus Labill 4 2 1.33 66.67 0.056 0.135 8.333 13.537 6.061 27.9


Hughes 1 1 0.33 33.33 0.008 0.019 2.083 1.943 3.030 7.1


70

Sl.

No Scientific Name

Phyto-sociological parameters

No. O Density Frequency BA Do RD Rdo RF IVI

9 Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.)

K.Heyne 1 1 0.33 33.33 0.017 0.041 2.083 4.110 3.030 9.2

10 Phoenix sylvestris (L.) Roxb. 2 1 0.67 33.33 0.012 0.029 4.167 2.906 3.030 10.1

11 Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.)Benth. 2 1 0.67 33.33 0.007 0.018 4.167 1.814 3.030 9.0

12 Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.)

Thwaites 4 2 1.33 66.67 0.036 0.087 8.333 8.705 6.061 23.1

13 Pongamia pinnata (L.)Pierre 6 3 2.00 100.00 0.030 0.072 12.500 7.167 9.091 28.8

14 Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce 2 2 0.67 66.67 0.007 0.018 4.167 1.814 6.061 12.0

15 Samanea saman (JACQ.) Merr. 1 1 0.33 33.33 0.007 0.016 2.083 1.606 3.030 6.7

16 Simarouba glauca DC. 1 1 0.33 33.33 0.010 0.023 2.083 2.312 3.030 7.4

17 Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) Wight &

Arn. 2 1 0.67 33.33 0.010 0.023 4.167 2.328 3.030 9.5

18 Terminalia catappa L. 1 1 0.33 33.33 0.013 0.031 2.083 3.147 3.030 8.3

19 Vachellia nilotica (L.) P.J.H.Hurter

& Mabb 3 1 1.00 33.33 0.029 0.071 6.250 7.138 3.030 16.4

20 Ziziphus jujuba Lam 1 1 0.33 33.33 0.009 0.021 2.083 2.087 3.030 7.2

Total 100 100 100 300.0

TABLE 3-25 CHECKLIST OF HERBS, SHRUBS AND CLIMBERS

Sl.


IUCN Conservation

Status-2022

RET

Status Uses

Shrubs

1 Lantana camara L. Beli gida Verbenaceae

Not Assessed Common Medicinal &

ornamental

2 Ocimum sanctum L. Tulasi Lamiaceae

Not Assessed Common Edible and

medicinal

3 Sida acuta Burm. fil. Bheemanaka

ddi Malvaceae

Not Assessed Common Medicinal


71

Sl.


IUCN Conservation

Status-2022

RET

Status Uses

4 Tecoma stans (L.) Juss. ex

Kunth Gante hoo Bignoniaceae

Least Concern Common Ornamental

5 Arundo donax L. Kaage kabbu Poaceae Least Concern Common Medicinal

Herbs

1 Phyllanthus niruri L. Nela nelli Euphorbiacea

e


2 Solanum viarum Dun. Cikkasonde Solanaceae Least Concern Common Medicinal

3 Tridax procumbens L. Jayanthi Asteraceae Not Assessed Common Medicinal

4 Vigna trilobata (L.)

Verdcourt Pisaru kaayi Fabaceae


5 Synedrella

nodiflora Gaertn

Tota halu

gida Asteraceae


6 Boerhavia erecta L. Punarnava Nyctaginacea

e


7 Euphorbia hirta L Acchacche

gida

Euphorbiacea

e


8 Leucas aspera (Willd.)

Link

Bilee

thumbe Lamiaceae


9 Sonchus asper (L.) Kalijibi Asteraceae


medicinal

10 Typha angustata BORY Aane jondu Typhaceae


medicinal

Climbers

1 Ipomoea coccinea L Halluballi, Convolvulac

eae

Not Assessed Common Ornamental

2 Ricinus communis L. Aralu Euphorbiacea

e


3 Cocculus hirsutus (L.) Aadama

balli

Menispermac

eae



72

Conclusion

The proposed project is projected to mining, during construction phase there will

be removal of trees. No endangered species is recorded in the project site. The proposed project will not attract any wildlife clearance and Eco-sensitive zone.

No Schedule-I species is recorded.

3.7.10 Faunal Diversity in Core and Buffer Zone

The Core Zone is a mining dominated landscape, therefore not much sightings

of Fauna were found. The Faunal diversity is limited to Butterflies, Insects, Rats

and Common lizards. This area has a very poor Avifaunal diversity. Possibility of

bigger mammals are very low due to the cumulative disturbance caused by the

mining and associated activities. Based on primary source, the details of Fauna

diversity observed in core zone is given in Table 3.26.

TABLE 3-26 FAUNA DIVERSITY IN CORE ZONE (PRIMARY SOURCE)

Sl.

No.

Common Name /

Local Name Scientific Name

Schedule of

Wild Life

Protection Act

in Which

Listed

Mammals

1. Squirrel Funambulus pennant IV

2. Rat Ratus ratus -

3. Mice Mus musculus -

4. Fruit Bat Cynoptereus sphinx -

5. Common Langur Presbytis entellus II

6. Bonnet monkey Macaca radiate II

7. Jungle Cat / Baul Felis chaus II

Reptiles

1. Blind snake Typhlops spp. IV

2. Saw Scaled Viper Echis carinatus IV

3. Yellow Rat Snake Ptyas mucosus II

4. Tree snake Dryphis spp. IV

5. Chameleon Chameleon zeylanicus II

6. Krait Bangarus ceruleus -

7. Common Skink Mabuya carinata -

8. Garden Lizard Calotes versicolor -


73

Birds

1 Tailor bird Orthotomus sutorius IV

2 Common Crow Corvus splendens V

3 Jungle Crow Corvus marorhynchos IV

4 Common Mynah Acridotheres tristis IV

5 Jungle Mynah Acridotheres fuscus IV

6 Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis IV

7 Shikra Accipiter badius IV

8 Small green bee-eater Merops orientalis IV

9 Grey Partridge Perdix IV

10 Crow Pheasant Centropus sinensis IV

11 Magpie Robin Copsychus saularis IV

12 Weaver bird Ploceus philippinus IV

13 Spotted Owlet Athene brama IV

14 Pariah Kite Milvus migrans -

15 Partridge / Teetar Francolinus spp. IV

16 Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela

17 Pied Mynah Sturnus contra IV

18 Small Minivet Pericrocotus cinnamomeus IV

19 Rose Ringed Parakeet Psitta culakrameri IV

20 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava IV

21 Koel Eudynamis scolopacea IV

22 Golden oriole Oriolus kundoo IV

Source: Primary source (Based on Survey and Interaction with Local Villagers)

Faunal species were found in buffer zone are Langur and Bonnet. The species

found in buffer zone adjacent to rocky hills are Jackal, Mongoose, Black Wild

Boar. Based on primary source, the details of Fauna diversity observed in buffer

zone given in Table 3.27.


74

TABLE 3-27 FAUNA DIVERSITY IN BUFFER ZONE (BASED ON PRIMARY SOURCE)

Sl. No. Common Name /

Local Name Scientific Name

Schedule of

Wild Life

Protection

Act in

Which

Listed

Mammals

1. Common Mongoose Herpestres edwardsii II

2. Indian Fox Vulpes bengalensis II

3. Jackal Canis aureus II

4. Squirrel Funambulus pennanti IV

5. Barking Deer Muntiacus muntjak III

6 Common house Rat Rattus rattus V

7 Jungle Cat / Baul Felis chaus II

8 Wild Pig Sus scrofa III

9 Indian hare Lepus nigricollis IV

10 Common Langur Presbytis entellus II

11 Bonnet monkey Macaca radiata II

12 Hyaena Hyaena hyaena III

Reptiles

1 Common Krait Bungarus caeruleus -

2 Russel’s Viper Vipera russelii II

3 Saw Scaled Viper Echis carinatus IV

4 Yellow Rat Snake Ptyas mucosus II

5 Indian Sand Boa Eryx johnii IV

6 Chameleon Chameleon zeylanicus II

7 Common Skink Mabuya carinata -

8 Garden Lizard Calotes versicolor -

9 Giant leaf-toed Gecko Hemidactylus giganteus

10 South Indian Rock

Agama Psammophilus dorsalis

11 Tree snake Dryphis spp. IV

12 Blind snake Typhlops spp. IV

Avifauna

1. Purple Sunbird Nectarinia asiatica IV

2. Blue Rock Pigeon Columba livia IV

3. Tailor bird Orthotomus sutorius IV


75

4. Common Crow Corvus splendens V

5. Jungle Crow Corvus marorhynchos IV

6. Common Mynah Acridotheres tristis IV

7. Jungle Mynah Acridotheres fuscus IV

8. Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis IV

9. Indian Ring Dove Streptopelia decaocto IV

10. Shikra Accipiter badius IV

11. Grey Jungle Fowl Gallus sonnerattii II

12. Grey Partridge Perdix sp. IV

13. House Sparrow Passer domesticus -

14. Crow Pheasant Centropus sinensis IV

15. Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger IV

16. Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo IV

17. Weaver bird Ploceus philippinus IV

18. Spotted Owlet Athene brama IV

19. Pariah Kite Milvus migrans -

20. Partridge / Teetar Francolinus spp. IV

21. Pied Mynah Sturnus contra IV

22. Small Minivet Pericrocotus cinnamomeus IV

23. Rose Ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri IV

24. Blossom Headed

Parakeet Psittacula cyanocephala IV

25. Large Pied Wagtail Motacilla maderaspatensis IV

26. Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava IV

27. Koel Eudynamis scolopacea IV

28. Golden oriole Oriolus oriolus IV

29. Pheasant Tailed Jacana Hydrophasia nuschirurgus IV

30. Asian Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus IV

31. Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii IV

32. Lesser Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis IV

33. Common kingfisher Alcedo atthis IV

34. White breasted

kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis IV

35. Indian Roller Coracias bengalensis IV

36. Painted Spurfowl Galloperdix lunulata IV

37. Black Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis IV

38. River Tern Sterna aurantia IV

39. Red Wattled Lapwing Vannelus indicus IV

40. Brown-headed Barbet Megalaima zeylanica IV


76

41. Copper-smith Barbet Megalaima viridis IV

42. Common Tree-pie Dendrocitta vagabunda IV

43. Pond Heron Ardeola grayii IV

44. Indian Robin Saxicoloides fulicata IV

45. Magpie Robin Copsychus saularis IV

46. Little egret Egretta garzetta IV

47. Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis IV

48. Blue-headed Rock

Thrush Monticola conclorhynchus IV

49. Small green bee-eater Merops orientalis IV

50. Large grey babbler Turdoides malcolmi IV

51. Jungle babbler Turdoides striatus IV

52. Red vent bulbul Pycnonotus cafer IV

53. White browed bulbul Pycnonotus luteolus IV

Source: Primary source (Based on Primary Survey and Interaction with Local

Villagers)

The study was undertaken for 10 km radius area and no Schedule-I species

reported during the study. However as per the list prepared by forest department

(Working Plan) “Ballari Forest Division” a few Schedule-I species (Sloth Bear,

Black Buck, Panther, Common Peafowl, Monitor Lizard, Python) were earlier

reported from the Reserve Forest.

3.8 Land use

Land Use/ Land Cover mapping (using Remote Sensing & GIS):

3.8.1 Introduction

The land use/land cover information relates to the status, spatial distribution &

area extent of different land cover/land use categories. Land cover and land use

are terms that are often used interchangeably; however, they have different

meanings. Land cover results from a complex mixture of natural and

anthropogenic influences and is the composition and characteristics of land

surface elements (Cihlar, 2000). In contrast, land use is characterized by

economic uses of land and people’s relationships with the environment (Avery

and Berlin, 1992). For example, a land cover of forest, when considered as a land

use, could be a park. To classify land use with satellite imagery often requires

the use of supplementary information such as fieldwork. The land cover/ land

use classification system is based on the methodology given in 'Manual of

Nationwide land use/land cover mapping using Digital Techniques’.


77

Remote sensing is the science and art of obtaining information about an object,

area or phenomena through the analysis of data acquired by a device that is not

in contact with the object, area, or phenomena under investigation. The data

analysis process involves examining the data using various image processing

techniques by a digital computer. Its application in the field of environmental

management is of great prominence. The inherently digital nature of remotely

sensed data, supporting quantitative & statistical analysis of spectral

measurement, led to rapid advancement in the field of digital techniques. With a

view to facilitate utilization of this modern technology in the management of the

resources, a chain of digital image processing steps has been carried for the land

use/land cover mapping. The entire investigations have been carried out using

ERDAS digital image processing software and Geographic Information System

(ARC GIS).

3.8.2 Data Input

Satellite Data

LISS-IV composite band of visible and near infrared B2, B3 and B4 with spatial

resolution of 5.8m of 24/04/2021 is used for the land use land cover study.

Collateral Data used

Survey of India Topographical Map

Ground Truth Information

Other Collateral Information

Methodology

The research on remote sensing has been directed for several decades towards

image processing & development of methods for digital map generation especially

on land use/land cover. The primary aims were to produce thematic maps that

could be quickly updated. However, maps obtained from digital automatic

classification fails to fully satisfy the purpose for which it is generated. Therefore,

digital classification procedure has been used for generation of maps on land

use/land cover from satellite data. The technique is based on stratified approach.

The overall methodology for land use/land cover map generation is explained in

the flowchart in Figure 3-17

Erdas Image Processing Software was used for digital processing of the spatial

data. Digital image processing techniques were applied for the mapping of the

land use/land cover classes of the provided area from the satellite data The

methodology applied comes under following steps:


78

Image Enhancement

Image enhancement is one of the important image processing functions primarily

done to improve the appearance of the imagery to assist in visual interpretation

and analysis. Various options of image enhancement techniques were tried out

to get the best image for visual interpretation. Histogram equalized stretch

enhancement techniques were applied to the imagery of the study area for better

interpretation of different features in the satellite imagery.

The LISS-IV of 5.8m has been used for digital classification of land use

categories. The subset area of 10 km radius area has been stratified by

generating forest mask from topographical map. In non-forest area, the un-

supervised classification has been applied. In this particular type of classification

spectral classes are grouped first, based solely on the numerical information in

FIGURE 3-17 FLOW CHART ILLUSTRATING THE METHODOLOGY OF

DIGITAL IMAGE PROCESSING


79

the data, and are then matched by the analyst to information classes.

Unsupervised classifiers do not utilize training sets as the basis for classification.

Rather it involves algorithms called clustering algorithms, that examine the

unknown pixels in an image and aggregate them into a number of classes based

on the natural groupings or clusters present in the image values. The analyst

specifies the desired number of classes. Thus unlike supervised classification, it

does not start with a pre-determined set of classes, however it is neither done

completely without human intervention. The cultural features like roads, villages

and forest boundaries have been drawn from the existing maps.

The land use classified through supervised classification of the area and the

cultural features of roads, rail and village locations have been overlaid. The land

use/ land cover map of the area has been extracted using 10 km radius mask

and area statistics have been generated.

Results and Discussions

General Land use/ Land cover

The land use/ land cover map has been generated on 1:50,000 scale using digital

classification of LISS-IV. Based on the methodology developed for the present

land use/ land cover, categories have been grouped under the following major

land use/land cover categories.

TABLE 3-28 Major land use/land cover categories of study area

Sl.

No. Category Area in Ha % of the Study Area

1 Agricultural Land 411.175 1.26

2 Fallow Land 4416.28 13.59

3 Dense Forest 10015.42 30.84

4 Land with Scrub 5989.675 18.44

5 Degraded Forest 6266.475 19.29

6 Settlements 1780.463 5.48

7 Mining Area 3583.83 11.03

8 Water bodies 11.18 0.034

Total 32474.5 100


80

Agricultural & Fallow land

Based on satellite data and ground truth, the total agricultural & fallow land,

are classified by using image classification techniques. Existing agricultural area

were depicted by utilizing multispectral satellite data. The total agricultural area

is about 411.175 hectares which is 1.26 percent of the total study area & current

fallow land is 4416.28 ha area which is about 13.59 % of the total study area.

Dense forest land/Natural vegetation

Forest with canopy cover more than 60% is considered as dense forest. Location

of dense forest within study area is shown in figure below. This represents the

area under Dense forest lands, about 10015.42 hectares or 30.84percent of the

study area. The study area contains natural vegetation.

Land with Scrub

Scrub lands are quite similar with degraded forest in image characteristics.

These lands are further examined on the ground and cross checked with the

forest boundaries to classify into scrub lands. Scrub lands are 5989.675

hectares which is about 18.44 percent of the study area.

Degraded Forest

Mainly Degraded forest can be grouped into two categories viz. culturable and

non-culturable wastelands. Scrub lands with or without scrub, Barren rocky

areas can be classified under wastelands. Degraded forest are 6266.475 hectares

which is about 19.29 percent of the study area.

Settlements

Built-up land includes the settlements, roads and railway line etc. The village

locations and their area extent have been extracted from the satellite data of high

resolution and also from the existing topographical maps. The area occupied by

built-up class shown in the classified image is therefore based on the visual

interpretation of high-resolution satellite data and also topographical maps. The

major built-up area is about 1780.463 hectares which is 5.48 percent of the total

study area.

Mining Area

The total area falling within mining is 3583.83 ha which 11.03% of the study

area.

Water Bodies

Based on satellite data, the water bodies and water-logged areas are giving the

same tone and texture so it is very difficult to discriminate water logged areas


81

with the water bodies. Presently old water logged is also being considered as

water body in the study area. The total area falling within the water bodies are

11.18 ha which is about 0.034% of the total study area.

3.8.3 Land use planning of the project site

The Land use planning of proposed Mining site and its details are tabulated below in the table 3-29 and refer the figure 3-20 for the cartographical

representation of the proposed site.

TABLE 3-29 LAND USE PLANNING OF THE PROPOSED SITE

Sl. No

Particulars Existing Period Percentage (%) of Land

Used Forest Revenue Total

1. Mining 9.15 0.60 9.75 39.283

2 Dumping 4.10 0.27 4.37 17.607

3 Mineral Storage -- 1.30 1.30 5.237

4. Topsoil Yard -- -- --

5. Infrastructure/Statutory

Building

-- 0.02 0.02 0.082

6. Screening Plan -- 0.12 0.12 0.483

7. Road -- 1.00 1.00 4.029

8. Green Belt (Safety Zone) 2.06 1.04 3.10 12.489

9. Area for Eng. Measures -- -- --

10 Others

Biodiversity Area / Area

Unused

1.00

1.91

--

2.25

1.00

4.16

4.029

16.761

Total 18.22 6.60 24.82 100

TABLE 3-30 Proposed Land use pattern-Plan period & Conceptual stage

Sl.

No

Particulars Existing

Period

Percentage

(%) of Land

Used

Existing

Period

Percentage

(%) of Land

Used

1. Mining 9.75 39.283 9.75 39.283

2 Dumping 4.37 17.607 4.37 17.607

3 Mineral Storage 1.30 5.237 1.30 5.237

4. Topsoil Yard -- --


Building

0.02 0.082 0.02 0.082

6. Screening Plan 0.12 0.483 0.12 0.483

7. Road 1.00 4.029 1.00 4.029


9. Area for Eng. Measures -- --

10 Others


Unused

1.00

4.16

4.029

16.761

1.00

4.16

4.029

16.761

Total 24.82 100 24.82


82

FIGURE 3-18 FALSE COLOUR IMAGERY OF STUDY AREA


83

FIGURE 3-19 LAND USE AND LAND COVER CLASSIFIED IMAGERY OF STUDY AREA


84

FIGURE 3-20 LAND USE PLANNING OF THE PROPOSED SITE

Chapter -4 EIA-EMP of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt.K.M. Parvathamma, Bellary

85

4 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

& MITIGATION MEASURES

4.1 Introduction

Mining being site specific activity, excavation is bound to be done at a place

where mineral actually exist. Open cast iron ore mines can cause disturbance in

ecology, resulting in various pollution problems.

The Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt.K.M Paravathamma is an existing mine and

will continue with operations till the life of the mine. Present status of the

environmental parameters has been dealt in the Chapter-3. The result of

monitoring studies will serve as basis for assessing the impact of mining on

various environmental components. Environmental impacts of mining will arise

because of various operations carried out during the process of mining such as

drilling, blasting, excavation, transportation etc.

The main objectives of this EIA study are:

To identify the environmental impacts due to mining operations.

To delineate the level of degradation in various environment aspects, in terms

of physical, chemical, biological and sociological aspects due to mining.

To establish the methodology of monitoring the environmental parameters

by identifying the locations etc.

To recommend and implement mitigation measures of the identified impacts.

Anticipated environmental impacts are discussed in section 4.2 and mitigation

measures are discussed in section 4.3.

4.2 Anticipated Environmental Impacts

4.2.1 Topography

The topography of the area is discussed in Chapter-2.

Rajapura Iron Ore Mine is located in the Sandur Forest Rage, Bellary Division of

Karnataka. The area of the lease hold forms apart of rugged hilly terrain . The area is a hilly region with NW/SE trends with a minimum elevation of 675mRL

at the southern part near road a maximum of 880mRL towards northern most part of the lease area. Since the slope is towards eastern side, the drainage patter is dendritic flowing towards east through valleys.

As the area is part of forest, moderate vegetation with small trees and shrubs/bushes are observed.


86

The area enjoys tropical climate with an annual average rainfall of about

750mm. Maximum temperature in summer days is around 400C , and minimum temperature during winter nights records between 12-18 0C . Humidity varies between 25 to 85%.

Haulage road will be maintained with proper alignment/side bunds with an average gradient of 1:16. The Proposed area is bounded by the Latitude N-15°00'58.3" to N- 15°01'32.9" and longitude E-76°39'31.7” to E-76°39'57.3” in

Topo Sheet No. D43E12 & D43K9.

4.2.2 Land use

TABLE 4-1 LAND USE PLANNING OF THE PROPOSED SITE

Sl.

No

Particulars Existing Period Percentage

(%) of Land Used Forest Revenue Total

1. Mining 9.15 0.60 9.75 39.283

2 Dumping 4.10 0.27 4.37 17.607

3 Mineral Storage -- 1.30 1.30 5.237

4. Topsoil Yard -- -- --


Building

-- 0.02 0.02 0.082

6. Screening Plan -- 0.12 0.12 0.483

7. Road -- 1.00 1.00 4.029


9. Area for Eng. Measures -- -- --

10 Others


Unused

1.00

1.91

--

2.25

1.00

4.16

4.029

16.761

Total 18.22 6.60 24.82 100

SOURCE: APPROVED MINING PLAN

TABLE 4-2 Proposed Land use pattern-Plan period & Conceptual stage

Sl.

No

Particulars Existing

Period

Percentage

(%) of Land

Used

Existing

Period

Percentage

(%) of Land

Used

1. Mining 9.75 39.283 9.75 39.283

2 Dumping 4.37 17.607 4.37 17.607

3 Mineral Storage 1.30 5.237 1.30 5.237

4. Topsoil Yard -- --

5. Infrastructure/Statutory Building

0.02 0.082 0.02 0.082

6. Screening Plan 0.12 0.483 0.12 0.483

7. Road 1.00 4.029 1.00 4.029


9. Area for Eng. Measures -- --

10 Others


Unused

1.00

4.16

4.029

16.761

1.00

4.16

4.029

16.761

Total 24.82 100 24.82


87

Source: Mining Plan

Due to above activities the landscape of the terrain has been modified to some

extent. The major impacts observed include soil erosion, loss of top soil, creation

of pits and deforestation and possibility of adding silt load in the natural nallah

nearby the lease area. Refer. Figure no 3-20 for Present land use &proposed

land use.

4.2.3 Top Soil

Since the mine has been operational for several years before coming into auction,

maximum area is already broken up. As per proposed mining plan for next five

years, there is no likelihood of generation of topsoil. However, any small quantity

if encountered during the course of operation, the same shall be stacked

separately and used for afforestation purpose.

4.2.4 Drainage

The drainage pattern of the area is sub dendritic in nature. Half of the run-off

within the buffer zone drains towards east and the other half flows towards

South. Mining activity will be carried out on a hilly terrain, wherein there is no

possibility of encountering ground water as the mining operations will be carried

out on plateau and sloping hill with highest and lowest elevation of 962 m and

813 m above MSL, respectively.

The ground water table is about 50m to 60m below the general ground level and

the mining operations are conducted along the hill.

Mining may reach up to 700m above MSL. Therefore, no groundwater shall be

encountered in the mine workings and accordingly the quality of underground

water will not be deteriorated.

There are two nallahs originating from the lease area, out of which, one is from

western side and another is from the eastern side. Both the nallahs are emptying

into the tank Bhema sumudra.

As all operations are dry, there will be no discharge of any water from mine

process. It is required to ensure quality of runoff water during rainy season,

before it leaves the lease area. Precautionary measures by constructing Garland

drain, run off channels, check dams & settling sumps will help in making the

runoff water free from any silt during the rains. This will ensure that no polluted

water goes out from the mine area.


88

4.2.5 Air Environment

The mine is fully mechanized to produce 1.0 million tonnes ROM and 0.213

million tonnes of waste every year. The semi- arid climatic condition of the area

coupled with mining activities on the top of the hills through open-cast,

contributes to air pollution. Drilling, Blasting, extraction of ores and waste

loading and transportation of ore and waste materials, dumping and storage of

minerals and waste disposal are factors contributing for the air borne dust and

emissions.

Apart from the fine particulate matter from mining operations, gaseous

pollutants will also emit from the HEMM and ancillary equipment deployed for

the purpose. The level of the pollutants has not exceeded the permissible limit

at present, as indicated in the Chapter 3.

Atmospheric pollutants are hazardous to all living organism in biosphere. The

dust produced during mechanized opencast mining and allied activities not only

impacts human beings, but also the plant and animals around the ML area.

Therefore, strict mitigation measures are essential to ensure clean environment

and maintain sustainability of ecosystem. Rajpura Iron Ore is an existing mine

which is not in working condition and has already implemented control

measures.

The major gaseous pollutants of concern in iron ore mines are Sulphur dioxide

and oxides of nitrogen. Sulphur dioxide can cause respiratory problems. Oxides

of nitrogen can react in the atmosphere with hydrocarbons to produce

photochemical smog. In addition to this, the Sulphur dioxide and oxides of

nitrogen can generate an acid rain harmful to vegetation and materials.

It was found that the gaseous pollutants in core and buffer zone of Rajapura Iron

Ore Mine are well within the standard limits.

Air Quality Dispersion Modelling

Preamble

Impact assessment is an important part of Environmental Impact Assessment

Study. There are various techniques available to predict the impacts.

Mathematical modelling is an established and accepted technique to predict the

impacts.

The pollution load will not increase, as the production capacity of the mine is

same as earlier. However, modelling is done to assess the contribution

exclusively from the Rajapura Iron Ore Mine due to mining and allied activities.


89

Sources of Dust Emission

Major emission sources from production of iron ore are:

a. Drilling

b. Blasting

c. Development of benches

d. Loading of material by excavators to tippers for transport.

e. Crushing & Screening

f. Loading of waste for transport to waste dump area

g. Movement of machinery

Based on the various operations involved in the production of iron ore, the

various emission sources at each stage has been identified as given below:

TABLE 4-3 Emission Sources

Activity Source

Drilling Point Source

Crushing and Screening Area Source

Excavation & Loading of Iron Ore Area Source

Excavation & Loading of Waste Area Source

Transportation of waste from working pit to waste

dump

Line Source

Transportation of iron ore from working pit to mine

lease boundary

Line Source

Emission Rates

A. Dust

Dust emission rate due to material handling in mining area is based on the

following empirical formula (source: IMEJ-April 1982).

Dust emission due to excavation:

Pa x 23.6

Dust emission (DE) = ---------------------

Wd x Wh x 1000

DE = Dust emission in kg/hr


90

Pa = Annual Excavation in tonnes

Wd = No. of days of operation in a year

Wh = Effective working hrs in a day

Quantity of dust emitted in kg for 1000 tonnes of excavation.

Total Quantity to be handled

Maximum annual excavation is taken as 1.213 MMTPA (source: Mining Plan)

Emission Rates from Dust Extraction System and DG Sets

The emission rates from DG sets and dust extraction system are summarized

below in Table 4.4.

TABLE 4-4 Emission rates from DG sets and dust extraction system

Details Description DG Set Stack

1 2 3 4 5

Existing 15 KVA 10 KVA 62.5 KVA 62.5

KVA

500

KVA

Material construction Mild steel

Stack Top Circular

Release height above

Ground 3.408 2.97 2.97 2.97 2.97

Inside Diameter (m) 0.1016 0.1016 0.1016 0.1016 0.1016

Emission Rate

(gm/Kw-Hr) for PM 0.042 0.040 0.055 0.057 0.087

Emission Rate for

NO2 (gm/Kw-Hr) 0.90 0.85 1.12 1.14 1.40

Stack gas exit

Temperature in 0C 116 117 125 126 145

Stack gas exit

Velocity (m/s) 7.62 7.35 7.36 7.36 8.12

Emission Source Coordinates

The Centre of mine was assumed (0, 0) in the mathematical modelling.

4.2.6 Meteorological Conditions Used in Predictions

The hourly meteorological data has been generated at the site and the same has

been used in the predictions. The hourly wind speed, temperature, direction and


91

stabilities have been used. The hourly data was available for the months of

October-December, 2021.

4.2.7 Atmospheric Stability

Many alternative models are developed by different authors to relate y and z

with downwind distance x under different atmospheric stability conditions.

Unfortunately, none of these have been found to be comprehensive enough to be

applicable under all types of topographic and meteorological conditions. On the

basis of available information, “Pasquill Gifford” stability classification system

for study area has been followed. This classification is built in the model.

The Pasquill Gifford stability classification divides atmospheric stability into six

classes based on solar insolation/cloud cover conditions. Details of this

classification are given Table 4.5.

TABLE 4-5 PASQUILL – GIFFORD STABILITY CLASSIFICATION

Surface wind

speed (m/s)

Day time insolation Night time

conditions

Strong Moderate Slight Thin low

clouds

<4/8

Overcast

clouds

>3/8

0 – 2 A A – B B E F

2 – 3 A – B B C E F

3 – 5 B B – C D D E

5 – 6 C C – D D D D

>6 C D D D D

A – Extremely unstable

B – Moderately unstable

C – Slightly unstable

D – Neutral

E – Slightly stable

F – Moderately stable

4.2.8 Extrapolation of Wind Speed

Wind speed at stack level is calculated by power law as given below.

Ustack = U10 (Stack height/10) p


92

Where U10 is the wind speed at 10-meter level and p is the power law coefficient

(0.07, 0.07, 0.10, 0.15, 0.35 and 0.55 for stability classes A, B, C, D, E and F

respectively) as per Irwin for rural areas (USEPA, 1987).

4.2.9 Ambient air quality and background concentrations

Ambient air quality standards promulgated by Central Pollution Control Board

(CPCB) for industrial, residential and rural areas are as follows:

TABLE 4-6 Ambient air quality standards by CPCB

Concentration ( g/m3) (24 hours average)

PM10 PM2.5 SO2 NO2

100 60 80 80

The above standards are for a sampling period of 24 hours. The maximum

concentration of pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, NO2 and SO2) recorded at habitat in the

study area during summer months are given below:

4.3 Plan and frame work of computations:

4.3.1 Selection of locations:

The locations have been selected around the mining area covering an area of 10

km radius from mining center. The entire area has been put on grid network and

grid spacing is taken as 500 m.

4.3.2 Plan of computation

TABLE 4-7 THE AIR QUALITY PARAMETERS OF THE STUDY AREA

S.No.

Parameter PM10(µg/m3) PM2.5(µg/m3) SO2(µg/m3) NO2(µg/m3) CO

(mg/ m3 )

Locations Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max

.

Min.

1. Drilling Area 74 64 40 36 17.9 15.3 28.30 12.33 0.75 0.63

2. Loading Area 80 63 47 35 17.9 13 19.6 15.2 0.57 0.82

3. Dumping Area 73 65 45 37 17.1 13.2 20.2 15.3 0.83 0.59

4. Ubbalagundi 70 65 40 36 17 15.2 19.1 18.1 0.79 0.63


93

5. Rajapura 74 66 43 37 17.4 16.5 19.8 18.7 0.89 0.69

6. Appavvanahalli 74 65 40 36 17.9 15.6 20.1 18.1 0.82 0.63

7. Navalatti 74 65 43 37 17.2 15.6 19.8 18.1 0.82 0.63

8. Tonasigeri 70 65 41 36 16.8 15.2 19.1 18.1 0.68 0.63

Standard 100 60 80 80 2.0

The emission rate, dispersion coefficients and other input data being now

available to compute the following:

The 24-hourly averaged concentration with hourly data for the post

monsoon season;

The identification of grid point having peak concentration for the values;

and preparation of isopleths.

4.4 Results and Discussions

As per the monitoring results the parameters monitored are within the standards the there is no significant impact on the nearby area within the study area.

As the mining activity involves exploration of ore activities the mitigation

measures like, Dust suppression using water sprinklers in and out the project site, Proper maintenance of the project site roads, Approach roads, the face masks to be provided to the workers and the air pollution controlling measures

to be taken as per the pollution control board Norms.

4.4.1 Noise & Vibration

The mine operation will be fully mechanized open cast method of mining which

will involve drilling and deploying HEMM equipment’s like hydraulic drills and

excavators, sizing, wheel loaders and dumpers. Noise will also be generated due

to operations like crushing, screening, storage and dispatch of ores. Blasting will

cause ground vibrations, noise and fly rocks. When an explosive charge is fired

in a hole, stress waves propagate radically in all directions and cause the rock

particles to oscillate. This oscillation is felt as ground vibration. The details are

discussed in Chapter-2.

As the strata is medium hard, it can be extracted by the excavators. Any hard

strata exist, can be loosened by developing the Ripper and Dozer and Rock

breakers. If required, blasting will be undertaken.

The operation of machinery in the open cast mine results in considerable noise

which will not only affects the people working in the mine, but also in the


94

surrounding areas. Generally, Noise is transmitted over more distances when

mine workings are on the hill tops. Vibrations through ground also affect the

fauna as they are more sensitive to these unusual ground and air vibrations.

4.4.2 Water Environment

The existing seasonal nallahs in the buffer zone remain dry and become active

during rainy season. Since the water course are shallow and the workings are

situated at higher elevations, water will not pose any problem. Since rainfall is

comparatively low, there will not be much siltation or run-off problem. The

mining operations are conducted at the hill top which is at much higher level

than ground water level. Mining activities will not intersect the ground water as

the ground water table is 226 m below the pit bottom.

The major impact on water pollution is due to erosion of waste dump and sub-

grade dump, oil and grease, contamination of water bodies due to discharge of

mine water/effluent and sedimentation of the seasonal nallahs flowing nearby.

Surface water

The open cast mining operation will pollute the surface water sources as well as

water flowing out of the area due to increased erosion of the excavated areas and

the dumps. The single most important environmental aspect of mines is the

surface runoff from various areas during monsoon season.

There are no rivers or perennial water coursed in the Mining Lease area.

However, the area is traversed by few seasonal water courses which are usually

active during monsoon season and drain into the nearby water bodies. Naturally,

no rain water accumulates in the lease area. The rain water flows from hill slopes

and does not accumulate till it reaches the lower valleys.

Hence, the drainage pattern is sub-dendritic in nature and is typical of the hilly

area.

Control of erosion is important for both during mining and non-mining. As the

waste material from the fragmented areas like mine pits, dumps can cause severe

damage to the local environment including Soil, Water, Land, Air and

Agriculture. The main objective for the surface water management is to suggest

suitable Bio-engineering measures for the protection of Nallahs, Mine pits and

Waste dumps etc. from erosion/run-off due to rain. Erosion/Run-off of the waste

material during monsoon can be controlled/arrested by constructing the silt

retaining structures like toe wall, garland drain, check dams, Silt Settling tanks

etc.


95

4.4.3 Ground water

In Rajapura Iron Ore Mine, the mining operations are carried out on plateau and

sloping hill with highest and lowest elevation of 962 m and 813 m above MSL,

respectively. The ground water table is about 50 m to 60 m below the general

ground level and the mining operations are conducted along the hill. Therefore,

no groundwater table / aquifers shall be encountered in the mine workings up

to the exploratory drilling level 700 m RL and accordingly the quality of

underground water will not be deteriorated.

Impact of mining on water availability

Mining and associated activities have quantitative and qualitative impacts on the

water regime in and around the mines.

Open cast mining operations many times puncture the ground water table which

affects the ground water table in the surrounding area. Pumping operations

results in reduction of groundwater table. As discussed above the mine working

will not intersect the ground water table.

The water requirement shall be only for domestic purpose, dust suppression and

afforestation. Total water requirement is 24 KLD. This includes domestic

requirement of 4 KLD, 12 KLD towards dust suppression and 8 KLD towards

plantations and green belt development.

4.4.4 Soil Quality

In the process of opencast mining, several changes will occur in physical,

chemical and microbiological properties of soil because of mining and storage.

The open cast mining operation will directly result in removal of the soil, which

affects the soil fertility of the ML area. The soil samples are analysed and quality

discussed in Chapter-3.

Since, the mine was in operation by the erstwhile lessee, it is already broken

land. There is no likelihood of generation of topsoil. However, if, some quantity

is generated during the mining operations from lease area, it will be used for

afforestation purpose.

4.4.5 Waste generation

The details of waste generation are discussed in Chapter 2. The waste generated

from the mining operations will be stacked at the designated area and handled

as per the progressive mine closure plan. The waste mainly consists of

Shale/Phyllite, BHQ, Manganiferrous clays intercalated clays, poor grade from

contact zones, etc. The estimated quantity of Waste generation in the mining


96

plan period is 126190 Tonnes. This quantity will be dumped in extension of

existing dump in the area of 4.37 Ha. In this plan period the workings will be

carried out between 740 m RL to 680 m RL. Waste generation during life of mine

will be 43,01,171Tonnes. Retaining wall will be constructed to prevent the waste

from erosion.

At the conceptual stage the waste dump shall be reclaimed and rehabilitated by

geo-coir matting, planting soil binding species on slopes, plantation of trees on

terraces of waste dump. Proper engineering structures such as retention wall,

garland drain, check dam, earthen check dams, silt settling tanks etc. are

constructed to control the surface runoff.

Other waste e.g. E-waste and Hazardous waste will also be generated as

discussed in Chapter -2.

TABLE 4-8 WASTE GENERATION


2021-22 34968

2022-23 67032

2023-24 24190

Total 126190

4.4.6 Flora and fauna

The survey has not indicated the presence of any rare, endangered or endemic

species within the lease area. The fauna reported in this area does not fall under

category of rare species and are all common migratory type. Specific corridors

for movements & breeding grounds are also not reported. No wild life Sanctuary

or any other wild life area exists within vicinity of Core zone & Buffer zone of

Mining Lease area.

Since the major portion of the lease area is located in the forest area and on hill

top the impacts on nearby areas are as under:

Removal of vegetation (flora) from the area required for mining and other

purposes, and thereby displacement of fauna.

Dust due to mining and associated activities, which deposits on the leaves

of the plant in the surrounding and hampers the process of photosynthesis

and stunted growth.

Noise and vibrations due to blasting, movement of HEMM/vehicles and

operation of fixed plants are not conducive for the development of wild

animals and birds.


97

The forest in the study area is mixed deciduous sub classification. The project

authority has taken initiatives for raising vegetation in the lease area as well as

in the forest area in the vicinity.

4.4.7 Socio-economic conditions

The impacts of the human activities, specially mining and associated activities,

on the society assume a great importance. As soon as a mineral is discovered

and proved, and its mining potential is established, impacts on the society takes

shape in the increase in the value of the land, people from outside start buying

land for establishing business etc. Mining and associated activities can cause

the following impacts on the society.

Displacement of the people

Loss of livelihood

Changes in population dynamics

Cost of living

Water scarcity

Health impacts

Infrastructure facilities

Employment opportunities

Increase in aspiration

Since Rajapura Iron Ore Mine is an existing operating mine the above impacts

have already been considered and the project proponent will be undertaking

various measures for upliftment of the socioeconomic conditions of the area.

The development works will be undertaken by the management are discussed in

Chapter-8.

4.4.8 Impact due to the possible Accident

The following accidents may occur.

Forest fire

Failure of waste dump

Failure of pit slope

Lubricant & HSD storage chambers/ tankers

In case of mishappening, local population and wildlife may get affected.

4.4.9 Impact due to the Construction activities

There are no construction activities envisaged in existing project premises.


98

4.4.10 Impact due to the final decommissioning or

rehabilitation

Possibility of falling down of the human being, animals etc. in mine pits that may

cause death or major injury. The present workings are not matured for

decommissioning/closure of mines.

4.5 Mitigation Measures

4.5.1 General Views

Careful planning & implementation of proper environment management

practices are essential for sustainable development. The impact assessment

discussed in above sections has highlighted certain areas which need special

attention. The project is already carrying out control measures for all anticipated

environmental impacts.

Since, there is no expansion/change in methodology increase in pollution load

in future will be negligible. However, Project Proponent is taking due precautions

as discussed in the following paragraphs:

4.5.2 Topography

Rajapura Iron Ore Mine is located in the Sandur Forest Rage, Bellary Division of

Karnataka. The area of the lease hold forms apart of rugged hilly terrain . The area is a hilly region with NW/SE trends with a minimum elevation of 675mRL

at the southern part near road a maximum of 740 mRL towards northern most part of the lease area. Since the slope is towards eastern side, the drainage patter is dendritic flowing towards east through valleys.

As the area is part of forest, moderate vegetation with small trees and shrubs/bushes are observed.

The area enjoys tropical climate with an annual average rainfall of about 750mm. Maximum temperature in summer days is around 400C, and minimum temperature during winter nights’ records between 12-18 0C. Humidity varies

between 25 to 85%.

Haulage road will be maintained with proper alignment/side bunds with an average gradient of 1:16. The Proposed area is Located by the Latitude N- 15°

1'20.98"N and longitude 76°39'49.14"E in Topo Sheet No. D43E12 & D43K9.

4.5.3 Land Use

The entire lease area (24.82 ha.) is in forest land falling in Kumarswamy betta

Reserve Forest, Sandur Range of Sandur Taluk, Bellary District, Karnataka

State. At the conceptual stage, the land use pattern of the lease area is given in


99

Table 4.2. The reclamation & rehabilitation to be undertaken as per the R&R

Plan. The measures include technical and biological reclamation of mined out

areas, plantation with native species on dumps and mined out benches. The

mine pit shall be restored as a water reservoir.

4.5.4 Top Soil

The mine was in operation by the erstwhile lessee and most of the area already

broken. There is no likelihood of generation of topsoil. However, if, some quantity


afforestation purpose.

4.5.5 Drainage

The drainage pattern of the lease area is sub dendritic in nature. 70% of the

runoff within the buffer zone drains towards north & south directions. The study

area experiences an average annual rainfall of about 580 mm and considering

the hilly terrain with fragmented vegetation due to mining operations the runoff

water is stored in the settling ponds.

Besides the following drainage management measures will be undertaken at the

mine site:

i. Proper gradient and drainage arrangement at the overburden dumping

area.

ii. After trapping the suspended solids in garland drains just below the

overburden dumps, the water allowed to flow down the dump slopes

through settling tank so that all the suspended solids and sediments are

arrested.

iii. Plantation of indigenous and other economically important trees, shrubs,

herbs and grasses at the point of discharge and on OB dumps will be taken

up, so that the sediment/silt flow is arrested from the site and soil

moisture is maintained.

4.5.6 Air Environment

Concentration of Respirable Particulate Matter PM10 & PM2.5 and the Gaseous

Emission levels are within the limits prescribed by the CPCB. The following

control measures will be adopted to keep the dust under control:

i. Workers will be provided with Personal Protective Equipment’s to minimize

dust exposure.

ii. Wet drilling machine will be utilized

iii. Optimal use of explosives


100

iv. Blasting will be avoided during high wind speed.

v. Haul roads and service roads will be graded to remove the accumulated

loose material.

vi. Regular maintenance of HEMM

vii. Regular water sprinkling on the mine haul roads & other service roads.

viii. Green belt development along the lease boundary.

ix. Dry fogger dust suppression for Crushing & Screening Area

Impact of transportation on the environment

Rajapura Iron Ore Mine is surrounded by many other mines. The list of mines

within 10 Km radius is shown in Plate 4.4 and tabulated below in Table 4.9.

TABLE 4-9 Surrounding Mines of RAJAPURA iron ore mine

Sl.

No

Name of the Mining

Lease Category

ML.

No

Remarks

(Ha – Area)

1 Mineral Enterprises

Ltd. B 2596 6.07

2 Mineral Enterprises

Ltd. A 2388 57.00

3 SESA GOA limited A 2236 163.50

4 R. Praveen Chandra B 2294 42.60

5 Anjana Minerals B 2519 4.55

6 G.J Kumar B 2499 1.34

7 Janthakal Enterprises

Ltd. A 593 80.94

Transportation route

This Mining Lease Area is located at 2.1 km from Rajapur and 40Kms from

Ballari which can be reached via NH 150A Ballari- Hiriyur Road. From Ballari

after 10.3km take right and continue on Halakudi-Vittalapuram Road. Travel

about 10.6 Kms and take a left on Halakudi-Vittalapuram Road Travel about

19.1 Kms to reach the Mining Lease area


101

Note:

i. PCU – Passenger Car Unit

ii. Equivalency factor – 1 Truck = 3 PCU

iii. Volume in number of vehicles that pass-through a given point on the road

during a designated time is expressed in hour or day, unit of length in km.

4.5.7 Noise and Vibration

The mine operation will be fully mechanized open cast method of mining.

Auditory tests will be carried out during medical examination. Careful drilling

will be carried out and the technique will be used whenever required to handle

hard formation.

Drilling & Blasting is an important and vital aspect of mining and it is essential

to assess the impact of these activities on the surrounding area, especially on

the nearby structures and dwelling houses, if any. In the case of Rajapura Iron

Ore Mine, most of the strata are soft in nature. Ripper dozer and hydraulic rock

breaker will be used to loosen medium hard rock. If required, blasting will be

carried out to extract ore.

Measures proposed for reduction of ground vibration, if required are:

i. Controlling the dimension of the spacing and burden;

ii. Control of the amount of explosive charge per delay;

iii. Using down the hole initiation techniques and promotion of open blasting

like pop shooting;

iv. A safe distance of about 500 m from the center of blasting shall be

maintained;

v. Staggered pattern of blasting and a delay of 26-50 milliseconds shall be

adopted;

vi. Optimum charge per delay used to control of fly rock and ground vibration;

vii. The drill holes shall be properly charged and stemmed so that possibility

of air blast could be eliminated;

S.No Mode of

Transportation

No. of Trucks

/day

Capacity Quantity in

tonnes/ annum

1 By Road 5 10 tonnes 15000

2 By Road 59 16 tonnes 285000

3 To BBH Private Railway

sliding 75 31 tonnes 700000

4 Total 139 1000000


102

The workers working in high noise prone area will be provided with ear muffs as

safety precaution and workers will not be allowed to enter into noise prone area

without use of ear muffs.

Noise pollution mitigate measures include -

In addition to above mentioned measures following will also be done to control

noise pollution:

i. Proper and regular maintenance of vehicles, machinery and other

equipment.

ii. Limiting time exposure of workers to excessive noise.

iii. The noise generated by the machinery will be reduced by proper

lubrication of the machinery and equipment.

iv. The workers employed will be provided with protection equipment,

earmuffs and ear-plugs, as a protection from the high noise level generated

at the mine site, wherever required.

v. Noise levels will be controlled by using optimum explosive charge, proper

delay detonators and proper stemming to prevent blow out of holes.

vi. Speed of tippers in the mines area will be limited to moderate speed of 25

kmph to prevent undue noise from empty tippers.

4.5.8 Water Environment

The water quality analysis results of all locations show that all the parameters

are within the prescribed limits as per the standards of IS: 10500 and IS: 2296

(Class C). Rain water runoff only is likely to cause turbidity for which adequate

control measures will be undertaken.

Suitable trenches will be prepared along mine haul roads and benches, so that,

water flows out and ultimately held by check dams.

Following control measures will be taken for prevention of runoff from ROM and

waste dump:

As per the Reclamation & Rehabilitation Plan prepared by ICFRE Dehradun,

retaining walls and garland drains have been constructed at the toe of the active

waste dump to arrest the silt material flowing with water during rainy season. In

addition, following measures are undertaken and proposed for surface water

management:

Check dams have been constructed and shall be de-silted regularly.

Regular terracing & contouring shall be done to maintain the stable profile

of the dump. Organic manure and fertilizers shall be applied for healthy

growth of plants on dump.


103

Coir matting and afforestation shall be undertaken on the dump slope,

when declared inactive.

4.5.9 Details of engineering measures are being undertaken

as per R & R plan

To stabilize gullies/ rain cuts for waste dump management and to protect soil

erosion, water pollution along with recharge of ground water the following

measures are carried out and will maintain the same:

TABLE 4-10 Measures carried out as R&R plan

S.No. Particulars Length /No.

/Area

1 Retaining Wall 1210 m

2 Drains below Dump 1381 m

3 Settling Tank 6 Nos.

4 Garland Drain 3575 m

5 Check Dams 4 Nos.

6 Gully Plugs 6 Nos.

7 Hume Pipe Culvert 4 Nos.

Note: The R & R work proposed by ICFRE as per revised R & R plan will be

carried out as per time schedule.

De-silting of Check Dams

The check dams have proved very effective in arresting the silt material. The

settled material will be removed as and when required before monsoon season.

Measures for Water Conservation

The mining operations are conducted at hill top which is at a higher-level than

the ground water level. The mining operations are carried out on plateau and

sloping hill with highest and lowest elevation of 962 m and 813 m above MSL,

respectively. The ground water table is about 50 m to 60 m below the general

ground level and the mining operations are conducted along the hill. Therefore,

ground water level will not be intersected during mining operation. Since major

requirement of the water is fulfilled locally there is negligible impact on ground

water. In addition, ample engineering measures have been undertaken as per

R&R Plan for water conservation.


104

Rain Water Harvesting

The study area receives an average annual rainfall of 560 mm in the district with

an average of 40 rainy days. The monsoon season extends over a period of 6

months from June to November.

Whole lease area of 24.82 ha is catchment area for rainfall, hence the likely

quantity of rainwater that will be flowing through the lease area will be 5,61,680

cum (0.6 m x 93.6 x 10,000).

4.5.10 Soil Quality

The mine was in operation by the erstwhile lessee and most of the area is already

broken. There is no likelihood of generation of topsoil. However, if some quantity


afforestation purpose. In addition, 18.22 ha. area in Kumarswamy betta Reserve

Forest has been afforestation with the support of Forest Department. Rajapura

Iron Ore will take other control measures as discussed in water quality and

drainage section to avoid damage to soil in surrounding area.

Soil Management Plan

The microbes play an important role in maintaining the biological equilibrium of

the ecosystem. Among different microbes, there is a symbiotic group of fungi

called ‘mycorrhizae’. They are extremely important as they help in transport of

phosphorous and other essential elements to the plant system from the soil.

These mycorrhizal fungi also protect the plants against soil borne and root borne

diseases. Other than mycorrhizal fungi, the beneficial microbes such as Plant

Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) viz., Azotobacter, Azospirillum,

Rhizobium and Phosphobactreria (species of Bacillus and Preudomonas) involved

in breakdown of organic matter, N2 fixation, and production of plant growth

hormones and increase of available mineral nutrients in soil. They are also

helpful to build up other beneficial micro-flora and in turn improve soil health

(Mohan and Karthkeyan, 2011). These beneficial microbes are considered as bio-

inoculants or bio-fertilizers and they improve the growth and quality of the

seedlings in nursery and also help the plants for better survival and

establishment in problematic areas like mined out areas and maintain soil

structure.

The following measures in respect of soil management shall be adopted in

reclamation and rehabilitation of mined out areas:

The beneficial microorganisms shall be introduced as bio-fertilizers during

afforestation in the overburden dumps and other mined out areas through


105

planting of suitable fast-growing native plant species (inoculated with bio-

fertilizers and organic fertilizers) like grasses, herbs, shrubs and trees.

The seedlings shall be inoculated with beneficial microorganisms along

with the bio-manures/organic manures like fully composted farmyard

manure, vermi-compost, and leaf compost in the nursery.

The pits dug out for planting of saplings for afforestation shall be filled

with the mixture of bio-fertilizers and organic manures.

4.5.11 Waste Management

The details of waste generated are discussed in Chapter 2. The waste generated

from the mining operations will be stacked at the designated area and handled

as per the progressive mine closure plan. The waste mainly consists of

Shale/Phyllite, BHQ, Manganiferrous clays intercalated clays, poor grade from

contact zones, etc. The estimated quantity of Waste generation in the mining

plan period is 126190 T. This quantity will be dumped in extension of existing

dump in the area of 4.37 Ha. In this plan period the workings will be carried out

between 740 mRL to 680 m RL. The estimated waste generation during till the

life of mine will be 4301171 Metric Tonnes.

Dumping Area:

The waste generated will be dumped in Active dump and proposed dump in

North-Eastern side of the Lease and progressing towards South Eastern side as

per the Dump Management approved in R & R Plan & Mining Plan. The area

demarcated for the dumping in this plan period is 4.37 Ha. There is no mineral

rejects generation during plan period as all the +45% Fe material produced will

be sent to nearby Steel plant.

Existing waste Dumps

TABLE 4-11 DETAILS OF DUMPS IN BLOCK - I

Name of

the dump

Name of

the dump

Locations Top RL Bottom RL Height (m) Area (ha)

Active

Dump

Dump Maximum

elevation

740 680 40 4.37

There is only one active dump where the total waste will be dumped as an

extension of the existing dump. The dumping will be done terrace wise from the

bottom level to top level.

Each stage of the dump will be maintained at equal height of 10 m and 3 stages

are proposed as per existing dump and the topography of the area.


106

The dumping will be carried out at an angle not exceeding the angle of repose of

the material, varies from 31 to 40 degrees. R & R engineering measures will be

undertaken as per the approved Revised R & R plan with the time schedule.

Details of year wise dumping proposals are given in Table 4.12

TABLE 4-12 Details of year wise dumping proposals


2021-22 34968

2022-23 67032

2023-24 24190

Total 126190

Source: Approved Mining plan

The e-waste will be disposed by buy back system/e-waste auction to authorized

vendors and & hazardous waste generated will be sold to authorized recycler.

Overburden Dump Management

The combinations of grasses, herbs, shrubs, creepers and tree species shall be

used in restoration process. Depending upon stability and age, the plantation

can be done either by seed broadcasting, hydro-seeding or planting of seedlings.

Hydro-seeding is being successfully practiced to stabilize barren steep slopes

and fragile unstable surface. The species recommended for hydro seeding on

mine OB dumps and fragile unstable surfaces are given in Table 4.2 in addition

to hydro seeding, planting of suitable herbs and shrubs shall be done on the

slopes by making holes in geo-textile coir mat.

Benches and trenches have been made to make the slopes of OB dumps gentle,

followed by seed broadcasting and planting of seedlings of shrubs, namely

Calotrpis gigantean, C. procera, Cassia auriculata, Dendrocalamusstrictus,

Dodonaeaviscosa, Vitexnegundo, trees species like Acacia catechu, A. nilotica,

albiziaamara, A .lebbeck, A procera, Annona squamosal, Azadirachtaindica,

bauhinia racemose, Cassia fistula, Phyllanthusemblica, Pithecelobiusdulce,

Pongamiapinnata, Wrightiatinctoria, Ziziphusmauritiana, etc. Root stock/slips

of grasses, namely, bothriochloapertusa, Cymbopogonflexuosus, C. martini, C.

nardus, Cynodondactylon, Dactylocteniumaegyptum, Dichanthiumannulatum,

Eleusineindica, Heteropogoncontortus, etc.

The species suggested for seed broadcasting shall be used in a combination of

grasses, legumes and other species for stabilizing. The suggested plants include

grasses like Bothriochloapertusa, Cymbopogonflexuosus, Cymbopogon martini,


107

Cymbopogonnardus, Dactylocteniumaegyptium, Dichanthiumannulatum,

Heteropogoncontortus and legumes like Cassia auriculata, Cassia accidentalis,

Crotalaria juncea, Crotalaria pallida, Stylosanthesfruticose and

Tephrosiapurpurea and other shrubs like Calotropis gigantean and

Calotropisprocera etc. These species will get established themselves in due

course of time in disturbed areas.

Further, coir matting shall be used for plant establishment on the waste dump

terraces, when declared inactive.

4.5.12 Reclamation & Rehabilitation of mined out areas

Land Reclamation

Land degradation is one of the major adverse impacts of open cast mining

activities and effort to control adverse impacts would be incomplete without

appropriate land reclamation strategy. Since the excavation has to be started

from the hilltop in the shape of benches, the reclamation shall essentially include

the reclamation of theses benches in the form of steps. Land degradation will

also take place by dumping of waste, and the reclamation of the dumping area

shall be included in the programme. This can be ensured by phase wise

reclamation of the waste dumps as and when quantities of waste dumping are

completed up to the accommodated capacities of dumps.

The detailed post mining land use is given in Table 4.2. The mining area will be

systematically reclaimed and rehabilitated at the end of life of mine.

Mining in the plan period is proposed in the existing benches of earlier mined

out area. Hence reclamation by afforestation on the old dump slopes, active

dumps and green belt development along the lease boundary will be carried out.

The environmental protective works such as afforestation, avenue plantation,

settling tanks, geo-textile matting, green belt development, dump management,

check dam, retaining wall be taken up in the mine effectively as per ICFRE

approved R & R plan.

Flora & Fauna

Compensatory afforestation as per the requirement of Forest Conservation Act,

1980 will be undertaken. The afforestation programme also adequately

compensates the vegetation loss due to the diversion of forestland for mining and

allied purposes. The plantation will be done to cover biodiversity and multi-

species, as an attempt to develop vegetation that matches within natural

vegetation around the area. This is likely to keep intact the fauna of the region

as well. There are no endangered species of flora found in the leasehold area.


108

Conservation of Flora and fauna

Conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity is fundamental to sustainable

development. Mining is an extractive industry which has significant direct and

secondary environmental impacts. Mining activities interfere with various

biological processes of life which result in destruction of biodiversity. The project

will adopt ‘biodiversity friendly’ practices. The practices will include.

Improving the coherence of and access to information on biodiversity;

Engaging in joint conservation and sustainable development projects;

Working towards more effective land use planning systems;

Creation of awareness on biodiversity

A small booklet containing details on the biodiversity components (Plants, few

birds and butterflies etc.) of the area along with color photographs shall be

published for distribution to school and college students to create awareness in

them on biodiversity and its importance.

Flora

Shrubs and trees inside the mining lease other than mineralized area shall be

shall be protected and maintained properly.

Management Plan for Fauna

The habitat management in and around the mine lease with site specific species

will enable colonization of floral and faunal communities. Following shall be

made to encourage the native fauna conservation in the mine rehabilitation

program:

A dense greenbelt consisting of different species around the mine lease area

and also the haul roads will not only act as a dust and noise barrier, but also

improve the habitat conditions.

Suitable landscape based ecological restoration by planting shrubs, grasses

and herbs to attract Herpeto fauna assemblage and improve long term habitat

connectivity.

Planting of fruit yielding and shelter providing species will attract birds and

insects.

Awareness programmers amongst the local people as well as mining staff

regarding the importance of wildlife, their habits and habitats will be

organized.

The water stored in the engineering structures in the mine lease area will act

as a water hole for the wildlife present in the region.


109

Adequate cares will be taken during rainy season to reduce the sediment load

and water quality to protect the aquatic faunal diversity in the water bodies

around the ML.

‘Fauna Return Strategy’ shall be made by creating food, shelter & breeding

sites within mine lease.

The return of the species shall be expedited by creating fauna habitats and

corridors during rehabilitation using logs, stumps and other natural

materials.

Faunal corridors running from the surrounding areas to the center of the

rehabilitated areas encourage smaller species of mammals and reptiles, which

are reluctant to traverse long distances of open ground, to colonize.

The rock fill dams and check dams in the mine lease areas will prevent the

soil erosion, store sufficient quantity of filtered water in the area and act as

water holes for the faunal as well as other wild lives present in the region.

Fire plays hazardous role in the destruction of habitat. Fire preventing squad

shall be formed to fight the fire.

4.5.13 Green-belt Development Programme

As part of green belt development programme, reducing pollution, improving the local biodiversity and aesthetic values at the Project premises, the plantation of

several native trees with broad leaves will be carried out. The planting techniques and monitoring plan is given below;

1. The pit size for planting trees will be maintained at 45 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm.

2. Top soil removed from the project area shall be used for filling the pit will

be mixed with well decomposed farm yard manure in the range of 2.0– 3.0 kg.

3. The filling of soil will be completed at least 7 days prior to the plantation. 4. Seedlings with good condition shall be identified and opted for plantation. 5. The distance between the trees shall be maintained at 2 m and underneath

shrubs and herbs can be grown. 6. The plantation needs to be monitored regularly by watering, weeding,

application of manure and impart proper protection.

7. Dead species will be replaced immediately.

Green belt development should be carried around mining lease backfield and

reclaimed area, around water body, along the roads etc.,


110

TABLE 4-13 Area for afforestation proposed for the 5-year plan period

Year

Area for

afforestation

(Ha)

Location

No. of

saplings to

be planted

Proposed Cost

(including watch and

care)

1 1.0

Green

belt/gap

plantation

1000

Rs 1.50 lacs /annum

2 1.0 Green

belt/gap

plantation

1000

3 1.0 Dump slopes 1000



Total 5.0 5000

Source: Approved Mining plan

4.5.14 Proposed Green-belt development Programme

As per the revised R&R Report by ICFRE, the erstwhile lessee has already developed greenbelt along the safety zone as suggested in the earlier approved R&R Plan. However, gap plantation has to be taken up wherever find short of

appropriate greenbelt thickness. Importance of grasses:

Grasses are drought tolerant and can colonize fast in low nutrient soil. Due to

the presence of fibrous root system, grasses help in checking soil erosion. For

stabilization of sloppy areas rows of grasses are to be planted. Slips are to be

planted in the contours at a distance of one foot.

Grasses and bamboo species are recommended for Soil Moisture Conservation

(SMC) and stabilization of loose material and steep slopes.


111

TABLE 4-14 Grasses and Bamboo species

Sl. No. Species Propagation method Local/Kannada

name

1. Bambusaarundinacea Rhizome/Seeds Bidiru

2. Bothriochloapertusa Seeds Aanekattuhullu

3. Chrysopogonfulvus Slips Ganjigarike

4. Cymbopogonfulvus Slips Anthibalehullu

5. Cymbopogon martini Slips Kaashihullu

6. Cymbopogonnardus Slips Gandahanchihullu

7. Cynodondactylon Rhizome/Seeds Garikehullu

8. Dendrocalamusstrictus Rhizome Gandubidiru

9. Dichanthiumannulatum Seeds Ganjalagarikehullu

10. Heteropogoncontortus Slips/Seeds Ooobinahullu

Importance of Leguminous plant species

The legumes play an important role in increasing the soil nitrogen through

symbiotic association of nitrogen fixing bacteria called as Rhizobia within the

nodules on their roots which help to produce nitrogen compounds that help the

plant to grow. When these plant dies, fixed nitrogen is released which will then

be available to other plants and helps in fertilizing the soil.

The engineering structures (gully plugs/check dams) shall be supported by

biological measures to prevent adverse impact. Cost effective hydro-seeding is

suggested with bio-engineering measures especially in afforestation activities.

The species suggested are given in Table No. 4.16.


112

TABLE 4-15 Species Recommended for broadcasting

S.No

.

Species Family Habit Local/Kannada

name

1. Bothriochloapertusa Poaceae Herb Aanekattuhullu

2. Calotropis gigantean Asclepiadacea

e

Herb Ekka

3. Calotropisprocera Asclepiadacea

e

Shrub Kempuekka

4. Cassia auriculata Caesalpiniace

ae

Shrub Aavarike

5. Cassia occidentalis Caesalpiniace

ae

Shrub Doddathagase

6. Crotalaria juncea Fabaceae Herb Sannasenabu

7. Cymbopogonflexuosus Poaceae Herb Anthibalehullu

8. Cymbopogon martini Poaceae Herb Kaashihullu

9. Cymbopogonnardus Poaceae Herb Gandahanchihull

u

10. Cynodondactylon Poaceae Herb Garikehullu

11. Dactylocteniumaegytium Poaceae Herb -

12. Dichanthiumannulatum Poaceae Herb Ganjalagarikehull

u

13. Eleusineindica Poaceae Herb Hechhullihullu

14. Heteropogoncontortus Poaceae Herb Ooobinahullu

15. Stylosanthesfruticose Fabaceae Herb Saalikampa/ham

ata grass

16. Tephrosiapurpurea Fabaceae Herb Koggi


113

4.5.15 Socio-economic conditions

Since the inception of mining in Ballari district area by Rajapura Iron Ore Mine

of Smt. K.M.Parvathamma, a lot of developmental work has been taken up by

Rajapura Iron Ore Mine. Further, following activities will be undertaken in the

nearby villages:

1. Mobile health camps

2. Facilitating Govt. for immunization programme conducted time to time.

3. Annual donation for festival and other voluntary activities.

4. Sprinkling of water on the village roads.

5. Organizing sports activities.

6. Annual donation for sports.

7. Plantation Activities

8. Contribution for forest protection.

9. Maintenance of road

10. Desiltation Activities as per requirement

The details of the developmental works under Corporate Social Responsibility

(CSR) has been discussed in Chapter – 8 – Project Benefits.

Public health implications of the project

The company takes preventive measures for the villagers in the local area for

better health. Company provides the following facilities for the betterment of

health.

TABLE 4-16 INITIATIVES BY K.M.PARVATAMMA TOWARDS PUBLIC HEALTH

S.No

.

Activities

1 Providing Ambulance for patients for nearest hospital as and when

required.

2 Health awareness programme in villages.

3 COVID Care Facilities

4 Infrastructural Facilities

5 Drinking Water Facilities

6 Awareness programmes among school children for use of RO water for

drinking purpose instead of taking pond or nallah/river water.


114

Specific programme for upliftment of SC/ST population of the

study area

As per Census 2011, SC & ST population is almost 55 % of the total population

in the study area. The percentage of SC & ST population to total population is

21% & 34% respectively. Hence the peripheral/ CSR activities done/proposed to

be done are focused on upliftment of SC/ST population also.

The company focuses on the following activities for upliftment of SC/ST

population:

1) Education & communication

2) Health care

3) Livelihood

4) Sports & culture

5) Infrastructure & development

4.5.16 Management plan for the possible Accident

The mine is operational. The project proponent shall prepare action plan for the

following to prevent accident and disaster management:

Surface/Forest fire



Lubricant & HSD storage chambers/ tankers failure

4.5.17 Management plan for impact due to the construction

activities

No major construction activities are envisaged.

4.5.18 Management Plan for the Impact due to the final

decommissioning or rehabilitation

All necessary precautions will be taken as per DGMS norms.

4.5.19 Power (energy) conservation

In order to reduce power consumption solar based Wi-Fi tower shall be

provided.

Due care shall be taken to avoid leakages of oil, fuel or lubricants. Used

oils, batteries and cotton waste will be collected and sold to authorized

agencies.

Energy efficient motors shall be encouraged.

Chapter-5 EIA-EMP of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt.K.M. Parvathamma, Bellary

115

5 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES (TECHNOLOGY & SITE)

5.1 Analysis of Alternative Technology

Rajapura Iron Ore Mine is a fully mechanized mine being worked by open cast

mining method through drilling, blasting and deploying HEMM equipment like

hydraulic drills, hydraulic excavators, wheel loaders and dumpers. The mine

parameters viz. benches, slopes, extent of mechanization and processing units

have been designed in such a way that the mine will be able to achieve the

proposed level of excavation i.e., 1,29,000 TPA in the plan period.

The method of mining for excavation of ore and handling of waste by utilizing the

HEM machinery as mentioned in Chapter-2 will be done till life of the mine.

No other alternative technologies other than conventional method are considered

due to the nature of the deposit.

5.2 Analysis of Alternative Site

Rajapura Iron Ore Mines of Smt. K.M. Parvathamma through the e-auction

process, in which the coordinates and area were already predefined by the

competent government authorities. The occurrence of mineral is site specific,

thus, no alternative site was considered.


116

6 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM

6.1 Environmental Monitoring

Rajapura Iron Ore Mines of Smt. K.M. Parvathamma is committed for

sustainable development and eco-friendly mining operations. The environment

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

mitigation measures forth adverse impacts have been proposed. Most of the

impacts are confined to the mine lease area alone. However, implementations of

the proposed control measures and monitoring thereof are undertaken within

and outside the mining lease area up to an extent of 10 km radius. The

environmental monitoring for the mining operations are conducted as per the

requirement of different statutory agencies like MoEF&CC, CPCB, DGMS and

IBM. The detail is provided below:

1. Micro-Meteorology;

2. Ambient Air Quality Monitoring;

3. Fugitive Dust Monitoring

4. Surface Water and Ground Water quality;

5. Ambient and work zone Noise levels;

6. Ground Vibration Study

7. Soil Quality;

Monitoring of crucial environmental parameters is of immense importance to

assess the status of environment. With the knowledge of baseline conditions and

continuous post project monitoring, the change in levels of various

environmental attributes shall serve as an indicator regarding deterioration in

environmental conditions due to mining operations. Accordingly, suitable

mitigation measures are carried out to safeguard the environment. The entire

monitoring work is carried out by laboratories recognized by MoEF&CC/CPCB.

The seasons covered are Pre-monsoon, Monsoon, Post-monsoon and Winters.

Second Class Mines Manager looks after environment as well as Safety

Management & Occupational Health aspects. The guidance towards the same is

provided by the Environment Team of the mining department. Support for

landscaping and green belt development will also be obtained from in-house

Horticulture Department. Community welfare & peripheral development aspects

are dealt by Personnel Department. The officers of Environment Department will

frequently analyse the data and periodically assess the progress of the

Environment Management Plan (EMP).


117

6.1.1 Meteorological Monitoring

Meteorological parameters like wind speed, wind direction, temperature, relative

humidity and rainfall are collected from the nearest IMD station.

6.1.2 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring

The seasonal ambient air quality is conducted as per the guidelines of MoEF&CC

circular no. J-20012/1/2006-IA.II (M) dated 27/5/2009 & EC conditions. The

locations identified for monitoring of ambient air quality in core and buffer zone

of Rajapura Iron ore mine are as follows:

Based on the mining and its allied activities the following parameters are

chosen for the study:

1. Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5)

2. Sulphur dioxide (SO2)

3. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2)

4. Carbon Monoxide (CO)

However, any additional parameters shall also be monitored as per the

requirement of statutory agencies. The above parameters shall be monitored by

using calibrated Fine Dust Sampler & Respirable Dust Sampler.

6.1.3 Fugitive Dust

The locations for fugitive dust monitoring for particulate matter are given below:

1. Mine pit

2. Crushing & Screening Area

3. Loading & Unloading

4. Haul road

5. Waste Dump/mineral stack

Apart from the above, Personal Respirable Dust, Source Respirable Dust & Free

Silica are monitored through recognized laboratories as per DGMS guidelines.


Water samples are collected from 9 locations as per IS: 3025 (Part-1)

methodology. Necessary precautions are taken while collecting, preserving and

transporting the water samples. The locations identified for monitoring of surface

and ground water quality are as follows:

Ground water levels and quality are monitored four times in a year i.e. Pre-

monsoon (April - May), Monsoon (August), Post Monsoon (November) and Winter

(January).


118

6.1.5 Ambient Noise Levels

Ambient Noise levels and Work Zone Noise levels are monitored regularly. The

frequency of noise monitoring is once in a month. Noise levels are recorded by

integrated Sound Level Meter in dB (A). Noise levels are recorded as per the

methodology given in IS: 9989 entitled as “Assessment of noise with respect to

community response” and at the selected locations in & around the vicinity of

the mine area.

6.1.6 Work Zone Noise Level

Work Zone Noise Level recording is conducted at following locations to assess

the impact due to the various mining operations. The locations are given below.

1. Mines Office

2. Crushing & Screening Plant

6.1.7 Ground Vibrations Monitoring

Ground vibrations will be monitored following the DGMS (Tech) (S&T) Circular

No.7 of 1997, if required.

6.1.8 Soil Sampling

Soil sampling is done at the monitored locations to assess the effect of mining

operation

The environmental monitoring cell will coordinate all monitoring programs at

Rajapura Iron Ore Mine and data generated will be regularly furnished in half-

yearly compliance report of Environment Clearance.

The monitoring schedule is given in Table 6.1.

TABLE 6-1 Monitoring Schedule for Environmental Parameters

Sr.

No. Particulars

Monitorin

g

Frequency

Duration of

Sampling

Important

Monitoring

Parameters

Air Quality Monitoring and Meteorology

A Air Quality Monitoring

AAQM at 6 (1 core

and 5 buffer zone)

locations in and

around ML area.

Once in 15

days

during

each

season.

24 hr

continuousl

y

PM2.5, PM10,

SO2,NOxand CO


119

1 B Fugitive Dust Monitoring

Fugitive dust

sampling at 5

locations.

Once in a

month

during

each

season

24 hr Particulate Matter

C Personal Dust Monitoring / Work Zone Monitoring

Personal Dust

monitoring at 2

locations.

Once in six

months 8 hrs Respirable Dust

D Free Silica

Free Silica at 2

Locations

Once in six

months 8 hrs Free Silica

Meteorology

A Meteorological

data Daily

Continuous

Monitoring

(hourly

basis)

Wind speed,

direction,

temperature, relative

humidity, rainfall etc.

2

Water Quality Monitoring

A

Surface Water at 1

location Once in

season Grab

Parameters specified

under IS: 2296 / IS:

10500.

B

Drinking water

samples at 1

location

Twice a

year Grab


under IS: 10500.

C

Ground water

quality monitoring

at 4 locations

Once in

season Grab


under IS: 10500.

3

Noise Levels and Vibrations

A Work Zone Noise

levels at 2 locations.

Once in a

season

Spot noise

levels Noise level in dB(A)

B Ambient Noise levels

at 6 locations

Once in a

season

Spot noise

levels Noise level in dB(A)

C

Blast induced

ground vibrations

Once in a

year

Spot

vibration

recording

Peak Particle Velocity

(PPV) measured in

mm/s

4 Soil Sampling


120

A

Soil sampling at 5

locations.

Seasonal Grab

sample up

to 90-cm

Colour, textural

class, grain size,

distribution, pH,

Electrical

Conductivity, Bulk

Density, Porosity,

Infiltration rate,

Moisture retention

capacity, Wilting Co-

efficient, Organic

matter Na, N, K, PO4,

SO4, SAR, Base

Exchange Capacity,

Pb, Cu, Zn, Cd, Fe.

6.2 Monitoring Methods and Data Analysis

Standard methods for sampling and analysis are followed during collection &

analysis of samples. All environmental monitoring and relevant operational data

are stored in the database. Monitoring is conducted by a MoEF&CC/CPCB

recognized laboratory/NABL accredited laboratory.

6.2.1 Air Quality Monitoring

The ground level concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2 and CO in the

ambient air is monitored at regular intervals. Any abnormal rise will be

investigated to identify the causes, and appropriate action will be initiated.

Ambient air quality monitoring is carried out as per Bureau of Indian Standards

(IS: 5182 and its relevant parts) and National Ambient Air Quality standards

prescribed by CPCB. Monitoring is done by recognised laboratories with following

equipment and consumable items to meet the monitoring frequency and to

implement the monitoring program:

1. Fine Dust Samplers

2. Respirable Dust Samplers

3. Personal Dust Sampler

4. CO Monitor

5. Weather Station (automatic recording)

6. Spectrophotometer (visible range)

7. Single Pan Balance

8. Relevant chemicals as per IS:5182

9. Glassware etc.


121

Apart from the above, Fugitive Dust Emission, Personal Respirable Dust, Source

Respirable Dust & Free Silica is also monitored through recognized laboratories

as per DGMS/MoEF&CC guidelines.


Representative samples for surface and ground water monitoring are collected

from the nearby water bodies such as nallas, open wells, bore wells, etc.

Parameters such as pH, taste & odour, conductivity, temperature, dissolved

oxygen, free ammonia, residual chlorine, Hardness as CaCO3 (Calcium,

Magnesium & total) etc. are analysed immediately after their collection at camp

laboratory established by firm. For all other parameters, the water samples

collected are preserved as given in IS 2488 and analysed at main laboratory

within 48 hrs of sample collection.

6.2.3 Noise Levels

Precession integrated noise level meter of reputed make is used for measuring

noise levels for both ambient and work zone. The noise level measurements are

taken during the following period given below in Table 6.2 throughout the day

at least for half-an-hour duration for each period at noise level measurement

location.

TABLE 6-2 Duration of noise level measurement

Period Time Minimum Duration

Morning 08.00 – 11.00 Hrs. 30 minutes

Afternoon 14.00 – 17.00 Hrs. 30 minutes

Evening 18.00 – 21.00 Hrs. 30 minutes

Night 24.00 – 03.00 Hrs 30 minutes

All work zone noise level measurements are regularly done at mine area, near

shovel operating point, drill spot, crushing plants, screening plants, loading

yards and other HEM machinery etc. Environmental monitoring is carried out

by MoEF&CC recognized laboratories having NABL accreditation.

6.2.4 Cost towards environment management

Total Capital Investment proposed for Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt. K.M.

Parvathamma Project is about Rs. 25.8 Crores. The cost towards environment

management is mentioned in the Table 6.3 shows the capital and recurring

expenditure towards the environment management:


122

TABLE 6-3 Capital cost towards Environment management

Sl.

No. Particulars

Capital Cost

(in lakhs)

Recurring

Cost (in

lakhs)

1 Dust suppression through water

tankers for mine haul roads -

5

2 Clearing of Fire Line & Watch Ward

(Payment to Forest Dept.) -

2

3 Afforestation/Greenbelt

Development -

0.5

4 Swachhata Pakhwada &Other

Awareness Activities -

0.5

5 Environmental Monitoring - 3

6 Solar Wifi Tower (maintenance) - 1

7

Occupational Health Safety &

Measures (Drinking water

facilities, Sanitation)

8.0

-

8 Land Use & Land Cover Study - 0.5

9 Wildlife Management Plan &

Implementation 10.0

-

10 Soil-Moisture Conservation Plan 2.8 -

11 Ground Water Study - 0.5

12

Construction & Maintenance of

engineering structures as per

approved mine plan.

- 7

13

Maintenance of structures

constructed under Reclamation &

Rehabilitation Plan

- 4.8

Total 20.8 25.8

Chapter-7 EIA/EMP of Rajapura Iron Ore Mines of Smt. K. M. Parvatamma, Bellary

123

7 ADDITIONAL STUDIES

7.1 Public Hearing

This will be considered after PH.

7.2 Risk Assessment

Hazard analysis involves identification and quantification of the various hazards

(unsafe conditions) that exist in the mine and plant. On the other hand, risk

analysis deals with the identification and quantification of risks; the equipment

and personnel are exposed to, due to accidents expected to arise from the

hazards present in the mine and plant.

Risk analysis follows an extensive hazard analysis. It involves the identification

and assessment of risks the working group & neighboring population are

exposed to as a result of hazards present. This requires a thorough knowledge

of failure probability, credible accident scenario, vulnerability of populations, etc.

Much of this information is difficult to get or generate. Consequently, the risk

analysis is often confined to maximum credible accident studies.

“Risk” is defined as a likelihood of Occurrence of an undesired event (accident,

injury or death) within a specified period or under specified circumstances. This

may be either a frequency or a probability depending on the circumstances.

The term “Hazard” is defined as a physical source or situation, which may cause

human injury, damage to property or the environment or some combination of

these criteria.

“Disaster” is defined as a catastrophic situation that causes damage, economic

disruptions, loss of human life and deterioration of health and health services

on a scale sufficient to warrant an extraordinary response from outside the

affected area or community. Disasters occasioned by man are factory fire

explosions and release of toxic gases or chemical substances, etc.

“Accident” is an unplanned event, which has a probability of causing personal

injury or property damage or both.

“Emergency” is defined as a situation where the resources out pass the demand.

This highlights the typical nature of emergency, “it will be after experience that

enough is not enough”, in emergency situations. Situations of this kind are

avoidable but it is not possible to always avoid them.

“Emergency preparedness” is one of the key activities in the overall management.

Preparedness, though largely dependent upon the response capability of the


124

persons engaged in direct action, will require support from others in the

organization before, during and after an emergency.

In the sections below, the identification of various hazards, probable risks in the

mine and beneficiation plant, maximum credible accident analysis, consequence

analysis are addressed which gives a broad identification of risks involved in the

project.

7.3 Scope of Study

Identification of various scenarios

Advance planning to overcome the problem

Actions in case of disaster phase, which includes warning, evacuation of

personnel, rescue relief operations to people affected in mishappening &

containment of disaster.

The mine will observe all the rules as described by Director General Mine &

Safety & shall addresses all the associated risks and emergency situations (both

off site & on site).

7.3.1 Risk Assessment

Surface fire



Lubricant & HSD storage chambers/ tankers

7.3.2 Disaster due to surface fire

Sufficient fire extinguishers to be installed at selected locations on surface like

Workshop, Garage, Diesel depot, Stores, etc. Besides, sufficient water hydrants

with sufficient hose pipes will be made available at designated locations for fire

protection. Action will be taken as per on site and off site emergency planning.

However, following steps are to be taken to deal with the disaster due to surface

fire:

Cordoning of the area

Shifting injured personnel, if any, to hospital

Arranging water tanker / fire brigade to deal with the fire

Roll call to search for missing person


125

Assessing the impact and restore the normal situation

Investigating reasons for failure and taking necessary corrective action to

prevent reoccurrence.

7.3.3 Disaster due to failure of waste dump

Sliding of waste dump causes more hazards as compared with quarry slope

failure. Hence, it is imperative that the degree of hazard against potential failure

of waste dump slope should be identified and precautionary measures adopted.

All measures for scientific mining will be taken for stabilization of dumps. Use of

geo-textiles, tree plantations and grass patching on the dump will be

implemented to stabilize the waste dump. Additional details are given below:

1. Gullies will be cut for flow of water from the waste dump to prevent

erosion of waste dump here and there due to erratic flow of rainwater.

2. On the slope of the terrace, seedlings have been planted so that the

bench slope and consequently the waste dump slope gets stabilized.

3. A stone barrier/toe wall is constructed all around the waste dumps

on down side to prevent waste dump wash-off material being carried

out of the dump area and mixing with the general drainage system.

The toe acts as wedge and prevent its slipping/failure.

4. A garland drain along with settling tank are constructed all around

the waste dump area for smooth flow and settling of suspended solids,

water and safety of the dump.

7.3.4 Disaster due to failure of PIT slope

As the depth planned is shallow and the iron ore, in which benches are to be

made, is very strong in nature, no failure of pit slope is anticipated. More so, as

there are no weak strata at top or in subsequent layers. The ultimate quarry

slope is designed at 450 angles. Hence, no pit slope failure is envisaged.

7.3.5 Damage due to lubricant and HSD storage

chambers/tankers

The following is required to deal with the emergency:

Shifting of injured personnel, if any, to the hospital.

Cordoning of the area.

Plugging the leakages, as far as possible


126

Preventing spillages to spread to larger areas

To collect the spilled material, as far as possible

Scrapping the contaminated ground, if possible and dispose of the same as

oily waste

Assessing the impact and cause of the incident.

Taking necessary corrective action to prevent such type of incidents in

future.

7.3.6 Emergency Control Centres

The emergency control center is in place from where the operations to handle the

emergency to be directed and coordinated. It is attended by the site main

controller, key personnel and the senior officers of the fire and police services.

The center is equipped to receive and transmit information and directions from

and to the incident controller and other areas of the works.

Emergency control centers contains the following:

a) An adequate number of external telephones

b) An adequate number of internal telephones

c) A work plan to show

i) Areas where there are inventories of LPG, HSD, etc.

ii) Sources of safety equipment

iii) The fire-fighting system and additional sources of water

iv) Site entrances and roadways, including up-to-date information on

roadwork’s

v) Assembly points

vi) The work location in relation to the surrounding community

vii) Lorry parks

d) A nominal roll of an employee

e) A list of key personnel, with addresses, telephone number, etc. (as given in

7.3.8).

7.3.7 Action on site

The primary purpose of the on-site emergency plan is to control and contain the

incident and so as to prevent it from spreading to nearby areas. It is not possible


127

to cover every eventuality in the plan and the successful handling of the

emergency will depend on an appropriate action and decisions being taken on

the spot. Other important aspects to be considered includes the following:

Evacuation of non-essential personnel

Accounting for personnel affected

Access to record and communicate the information to the friends and

relatives of the affected personnel.

Public relations

Rehabilitation of the affected persons

7.3.8 Post disaster analysis and evaluation

When the emergency is over, the team will carry out a detailed analysis of the

causes of the accident, evaluate the influence of various factors and take

necessary measures for future. At the same time, the adequacy of the Disaster

Preparedness Plan will be evaluated and shortcoming if any will be rectified for

subsequent improvement of the plan.

TYPE POLICE STATION HOSPITAL FIRE STATION

ADDRESS

Sandur Police Station

Bommaghatta Road, Sandur,

Karnataka

583119

Sandur Government Hospital No.1/3,

Bellary Road, Sandur Bellary, Bellary -

583119, Near

Syndicate Bank (Map)

Fire Station, Kurmanre Swamy Road , Kudligi

Road , Sandur - 583119

CONTACT.NO +91 83952 60249 +91 8392 260360 (08395) 260211

7.3.9 Emergency services

The provision of following emergency services to be made available in the plant.

Fire protection system

Medical facilities

Rescue facilities

Plant safety arrangements

Emergency action within 15 minutes of occurrence

javascript:;


128

7.3.10 Off-site emergency plan

Introduction

The off-site emergency plan is an integral part of any major hazard control

system. They are the accidents identified by the management, which could affect

people and the environment outside the works. Thus, the off-site plan forms the

basis for the on-site plan and the two plans should therefore complement each

other. The key feature of a good off-site emergency plan is its flexibility in its

application to emergencies other than those specifically included in the

formation of the plan. The roles of the various parties that may be involved in

the implementation of an off-site plan are described below. The responsibility for

the off-site plan is likely to rest on either with the works management or with

the local authority.

Aspects to be included in an off-site emergency plan

Some of the aspects to be included in off-site emergency plan are as follows: -

Organization

Details of command structure, warning systems, implementation procedures,

emergency control centers Names and appointments of incident controller, site

main controller, their deputies and other key personnel.

Communications

Identification of personnel involved, communication center, call signs, network,

list of telephone numbers.

Special emergency equipment

Details of availability and location of heavy lifting gear, bulldozers, specified fire-

fighting equipment, fireboats.

Voluntary Organizations

Details of organizers, telephone numbers, resources, etc.

Meteorological information

Arrangements for obtaining details of weather conditions prevailing at the time

and weather forecasts.

Humanitarian arrangements

Transport, evacuation centers, emergency feeding, treatment of injured, first aid,

ambulances, temporary mortuaries.


129

Public information

Arrangements for dealing with the media-press office & informing relatives etc.

Assessment

Arrangements for (a) collecting information on the causes of the emergency (b)

reviewing the efficiency and effectiveness of all aspects of the emergency plan.

Role of the emergency co-coordinating officer

The various emergency services will be coordinated by an emergency

coordinating officer (ECO) who is likely to be a senior police officer but, depending

on the circumstances, could be a senior fire officer. The ECO will liaise closely

with the site main controller. Again depending on local arrangements, for very

severe incidents with major or prolonged off-site consequences, the external

control may pass on to a senior authority/ administrator.

Role of major hazard works management

The role of works management in off-site emergency planning will be to establish

liaison with those preparing the plans and to provide information appropriate to

such plans.

Advice shall be provided by works management to all the outside organizations,

which may involve in handling the emergency off-site and which may need to

familiarize themselves with some of the technical aspects of the works activities

e.g. emergency services, medical departments etc.

Role of the Fire authorities

The control of a fire normally is the responsibility of the senior fire brigade officer

on arrival at the site. The senior fire brigade officer may also have a similar

responsibility for other events, such as explosions and toxic releases. Fire

authorities having major works in their area will have familiarized themselves

with the location on site of all stores of flammable materials, water and foam

supply point and fire-fighting equipment.

Role of the health authorities

Health authorities, including doctors, surgeons, hospitals, ambulances and so

on, have a vital part to play following a major accident and they will form an

integral part of any emergency plan.

For major fires, injuries will be the result of the effects of thermal radiation to a

varying degree and the knowledge and experience to handle this in all, but

extreme, cases may be generally available in most hospitals.

Chapter -8 EIA/EMP of Rajapura Iron Ore Mines of Smt. K. M. Parvatamma, Bellary

130

8 PROJECT BENEFITS

8.1 Improvement in the Physical & Social Infrastructure

Before coming into e-auction, Rajapura Iron Ore Mine which has strengthened

and developed basic infrastructure facilities for the communities in and around

the mines. Facilities like health care, educational facilities, providing potable

water (RO) to the surrounding villages, construction & modification of existing

roads, sanitation etc. have been developed under CSR by the erstwhile lessee.

Rajapura Iron Ore Mine. will further take up the development work and the

process of improvement in the physical & social Infrastructure will continue.

8.2 Corporate Social Responsibility

8.2.1 Corporate Social Policy

The existing mining projects of Rajapura Iron Ore Mines are delivering social

benefits to surrounding population in the form of educational facilities, roads,

communication facilities, transportation, marketing and health facilities directly

or indirectly. The Rajapura Iron Ore Mine has helped to improve the financial

earnings of the surrounding population by way of direct and indirect employment

opportunities. The project had encouraged the setting up of various utility

services and trade benefiting large number of people around the mining areas.

Rajapura Iron Ore Mines is striving to provide necessary facilities to the local

villagers since its advent. The activities which will be undertaken by Rajapura

Iron Ore Mines towards Corporate Social Responsibility can be broadly classified

as:

▪ Infrastructure Development;

▪ Health & Sanitation;

▪ Drinking Water;

▪ Miscellaneous

8.3 Employment Generation

The project generates direct and indirect employment during operation. The

employment is either permanent or contractual in nature. Most of the semi-

skilled and un-skilled labors will be employed on contractual works such as

plantation, civil constructions, plant maintenance, nursery maintenance,

canteen etc. The details of the employment generation by Rajapura Iron Ore Mine

of St. K.M. Parvathamma are given below in following Table 8.1:


131

TABLE 8-1 Details of Proposed Manpower (permanent / contractual /

indirect)

Category Nos.

Highly Skilled 12

Skilled 12

Semi – Skilled 12

Un – Skilled -

Total 36

Local contractors are encouraged to take-up maintenance works, supply of

material, transportation works etc. This results in generation of secondary

employment through various firms and means.

Services with regard to infrastructure, health care, drinking water etc. will be

given to inhabitants of the surrounding villages. The details are given below:

8.4 Services to be Rendered to Surrounding Villages / Towns

8.4.1 Infrastructure

Internal Roads Development

Drinking Water Facilities

8.4.2 Health / Disease Control Measures

Provision of Mobile Health Units

Regular medical services for surrounding villages.

Medical camps by Project & District Hospital.

8.4.3 Public Health Amenities

Awareness Program for Covid-19.

8.5 CSR Expenditure

The proposed CSR budget for the total amount of Indian Rupees 25.80 lakhs is

given in Table 8.2.

TABLE 8-2 Proposed CSR Budget

Sl.

No.

Focus Area Proposed CSR

budget(Lakhs)

1. Infrastructure

▪ Internal Roads Development 30.6


132

▪ Drinking Water Facilities

2. Health / Disease Control Measures 10

3. COVID Care Facilities / PPE

Distribution

11.0

Total 51.6


133

9 ENVIRONMENTAL COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS

Not applicable as it is not recommended at the scoping stage.

Chapter-10 EIA-EMP of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt.K.M.Parvatamma., Bellary

134

10 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

10.1 Environmental Policy

Managing the environment plays a vital role in the assessment and mitigation of

strategic risks associated with the environment, ensuring regulatory compliance as

well as identification of business opportunities. Reduction in the generation of

various wastes, and their reuse and recycle comprise the key working philosophy

of the Company.

10.2 Environment Management System

KMP will adopt Integrated Management System Policy covering Environment Policy

to conserve and protect Environment. As per the IMS policy, the procedures to

bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or

forest norms / conditions are through Internal Audit.

Procedure for Handling Non-Conformities is Detailed Below

If a non- conformance is identified, it is reviewed and investigated to decide

about the action to be initiated to mitigate immediate impact.

Non-compliance, with respect to the legal & other requirements - investigation,

disposition, corrective actions, are as per the procedure, monitoring compliance

to environmental legal requirements.

After emergency corrective actions Response Plan. situations investigation,

disposition, are as per Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan.

Employees report on field non-conformances for incident, accident, near miss

reviewed and respective control measures are taken after investigating. The

same control measures are communicated to all and will be updated in work

instructions to create

The non-conformance can be identified in different situation as mentioned below

• Deviations from Process / product requirements

• Incidents, accidents noted during operation.

• Non-compliance with respect to the Legal & other requirements

• Post emergency situations

• Management System Audit

• Deviation from OCP /SOPs / Work Instructions, procedures, non-

implementation of the management programme, after their approval. safe working

environment.


135

Reporting of Non-Conformance:

All non-conformances are reported in the specified format. Analysis of the cause of

the non-conformance will be done to decide corrective action required to eliminate

the causes and potential nonconformities. All proposed corrective actions are

reviewed prior to implementation.

In case the results of corrective actions need amendment in the documented

procedures, it is carried out as per procedure for Control of documented

information.

All the non - conformances and corrective actions status will be recorded and

consolidated. The copy of the same will be sent for management review.

The confirmation on effectiveness of corrective action on resolution of non-

conformance is presented to the management in the management review

meetings.

The following records pertaining to non-conformities will be maintained:

Non Conformance Report

Corrective Action Form

List of Accidents, Incidents

Accident Investigation Report

10.3 Administrative Aspects and Environmental Monitoring

Program

Regular monitoring of environmental parameters is of immense importance to

assess the status of environment during project operation. With the knowledge of

baseline conditions, the monitoring programme serves as an indicator for any

deterioration in environmental due to operation of the project. Accordingly, suitable

mitigative measures will be taken in time to safeguard the environment. Monitoring

is also essential to determine the efficiency of control measures implemented.

10.4 Institutional Arrangements for Environment Protection and

Conservation

The Office of K.M.Parvatamma is located at Bellary. The Chairman cum Managing

Director is supported by Directors for Production, Finance, Commercial, Personnel

and Technical Departments. It also houses overall Planning and Engineering

Department, Resource Planning, Personnel Management and Industrial Relations

Department, Industrial Engineering and Management Services, Human Resource

Department, Exploration and Environment Department.

Mining Department Vice President (VP) heads the division and well supported by

Human Resource Department, Public Relation Department, Corporate Social


136

Responsibility Department, Accounts Department, Finance Department,

Commercial Department, Geology Department, Planning Department, Survey

Department and Environment Department. Head Environment co-ordinates the

activities required for new projects and production projects for all Environmental

matters. He is assisted by senior officials of various projects. The functions of

Environment department are given below:

Peruse environmental policy of the company and to implement various

measures for its achievements;

Planning and organizing environmental studies for preparation of EIA/EMP

reports as required for new/expansion projects;

Ensuring implementation of EC conditions;

Interaction with Govt. Departments for obtaining approvals/clearance;

Setting of environmental performance parameters in line with policy and

statutory requirement and monitoring of achievements;

To guide the project environmental section in the implementation of pollution

control processes and to report to respective Pollution Control Board and

other agencies;

Prepare the annual environmental audit report for overall operations;

Prepare environmental statements for any activity or decision to be taken for

environmental implications;

Review the applications for consent orders made by projects and monitoring

the implementation of the conditions;

To keep up-to-date information on the overall environmental and associated

legislation; and prepare for dissemination within JSW;

Development of Greenbelt and Afforestation Activities;

Arranging in-house training for environmental core group as well as

executives in charge of operations involving pollution abatement processes

and improvement scheme;

To set environmental quality standards for the materials and equipment

ordered from suppliers for mining activity; and

To include necessary conditions in the work orders for safe guarding

environmental conditions and the interest of local community;

The functions and the responsibilities of the Environment Management Cell at the

project are as follows:

Provide overall co-ordination of environmental activities at project sites;

Undertake medium term environmental planning in accordance with long

term programme made at corporate level;

Develop good liaison with State Government agencies such as Pollution

Control Board, Forest and Revenue Departments, and Regional office of


137

MoEF&CC and submit periodical reports as may be prescribed in compliance

with conditions stipulated by them;

Supervise the environmental monitoring studies viz. work zone air emissions,

ambient air quality, water quality, noise level, vibration studies etc.

conducted by various contract agencies;

Undertake environmental awareness and other training programmes for the

workforce.

Monitoring of impacts on environment due to the activities undertaken by

contractors and impact on local population by their work force; and

Planning, managing and introducing community participation process and

developing and maintaining credibility of the organization and reducing the

level of misconception and misinformation about the project on

environmental issues.

Environmental Management aspects of the projects are being looked after by the

Environment Management Cell, created at Rajapura Iron Ore Mines of Smt K.M.

Parvathamma and also at project site. This cell comprises of professionals deployed

from different disciplines, which includes mining and environmental science and

engineering.

The organization structure for environmental management is shown in Figure10.1.

FIGURE 10-1 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE OF ENVIRONMENT DEPARTMENT


138

10.5 Implementation of the Environmental Measures

Schedule of Implementation of Environmental Management Measures by Rajapura

Iron Ore Mines are given below

YEARS

Particulars 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1

0

1

1

1

2

1

3

1

4

1

5

1

6

1

7

1

8

1

9

2

0

Air

Pollution

Control

Measures

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Noise

Pollution

Control

Measures

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Surface

Water

Manageme

nt

Measures

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Dump

Manageme

nt

Measures

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Occupation

al Health &

Safety

Measures

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

CSR

Measures ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

10.6 Budget for Implementation of Environmental Management

Plan

Rajapura Iron Ore Mines of Stm. K.M. Parvathamma will incur an amount of Rs.

25.8 lakhs (towards capital expenditure) and Rs. 25.8 lakhs (towards recurring

expenditure per annum) for implementation of the environmental management

plan. Chapter 6 shows the budget for Environmental Management Plan.


139

11 SUMMARY & CONCLUSION

11.1 Introduction

The Mining lease was first granted in the year 1953 and subsequently renewed

under the Mining Lease No. 2514. The lease had been transferred to Smt. K. M.

Parvathamma. from K.M. Rudraiah over an Extent of 121.41 Ha (105.483 Ha in

forest land and 15.927 Ha in Revenue/ Private Land) and transferred to SMt. K.M.

Parvathamma legal heir and wife of Sri. K.M. Rudraiah in the year 23.2.1979 as

per G.O. Notification CI/29MMM79 dated 17.12.1979. for the period f 20Years

w.e.f. 21.09.1973 was granted to Smt. K. M. Parvathamma over an Extent of 121.41

Ha (105.483 Ha in forest land and 15.927 Ha in Revenue/ Private Land) on

5.9.1979 and valid upto 20.09.1993 was Granted to Smt.K.M. Parvathamma over

an extent of 15.24 Ha of forest land (after surrendering an area of 90.243 Ha out

of 105.483 Ha forest land) Vide Govt. Notification No. CI.76.MMM.2002 date

13.01.2005. further in continuation of above notification No. CI. 76MMM.2002

second renewal for 20 years was modified as ML.No.2514and granted to Smt. K.M.

Parvathamma Over an Extent of 24.82 Ha (after surrendering an area of 6.257 Ha

out of 15.927 Ha revenue land) w.e.f 21.09.2003 to 23.2.2023 Vide G.O. notification

CI.10.MMM.2006 dated 19.01.2006 and executed on 23.02.2006.

First mining plan was approved on 2.11.1992 for a period 1992-93 to 1996-97.

Mining plan was approved on 26.02.1998 for a period of 5 years from 1997-98 to

2002-2003. As there was no forest clearance mine was not working later the mining

plan was reconsidered from 2000-01 to 2004-05. Mining Scheme for the period

2005-2010 was approved by IBM vide letter No.MS/BLR/Fe-55-SZ date

08.11.2005 for the extent of 31.167 Ha. Then modified Scheme of Mining for the

above period (2005-2010) modified under Rule 10(1) of MCDR for area extent

24.82Ha was approved by IBM vide letter No. Ms/BLR/Fe55-Sz dated 18.07.2006.

Mining Scheme for the period 2010-2015Prepard and submitted IBM on

23.09.2011. On receipt of SOM submitted by the lessee IBM has advised the lessee

to obtain the clearance letter along with duly certified lease sketch of ML area from

DMG, Banglore and resubmit the SOM vide IBM letter No. 279/313/92/BNG/1179

dated 5.5.2015.

11.2 Project Description

Dendritic drainage pattern is observed in the area. The highest elevation is 880m

RL and the lowest elevation is about 675mRL. As the area is part of forest, moderate

vegetation with small trees and shrubs/bushes are observed.

The salient features of the Rajapura Iron Ore Mine are given in Table 11.1


140

TABLE 11-1 Salient Features of RAJAPURA Iron Ore Mine

Name of the mine Rajapura Iron Ore Mine (ML No. 2514)

Total Area 24.82 Ha.

Area in Forestland 18.22 Ha

Area in Non-Forest

Land

6.6 Ha

Production Capacity 43000 TPA (As per approved Mining Plan)

Lat/long Latitude : N-15°00'58.3" to N- 15°01'32.9“

Longitude : E-76°39'31.7” to E-76°39'57.3”

Topo sheet No D43E12 & D43K9

Date of Grant of Lease 09-09-1958

Period/Expiry Date Valid up to 20.09.2023

Existence of Public

Road/Railway Line, if

any, nearby and

approximate distance

Road :

Bellary Hiriyur Road NH 150A about 20Kms

(Aerial Distance)

Bellary-Bommaghatta Road 1.8km (Aerial

Distance) Railway line- Ranjitpura 7 Kms

Postal Address

Smt. K.M. Parvathamma

18/35, IInd Link road, Parvathinagar, Bellary-583103

Ph: +91-9448291575/ 08392-266385

District Ballari

State Karnataka

Type of mine Open cast mine

Method of mining Fully mechanized open cast method

Mineable reserves 43,04,358 Tonnes of Iron ore as per approved

mining plan

Expected life of mine 2nd renewal valid up to 20 September 2023 (as per

lease deed)

Ore to Waste ratio 1: 0.98(Plan Period)

Average no. of working

days 36

Number of shifts One

Bench height & width 8 m

Top and Bottom Bench 880 mRL and 675mRL

Present working

benches 735 mRL to 687mRL (Third Year)

Waste (Plan Period) 1,26,190 TPA


141

Ultimate pit slope Not more than 45 degrees

Estimated Power

requirement & source 500 units/day , Source - DG sets

Estimated Water

requirement & source 24 KLD, Source – Open Wells & Tube Wells

Project Cost (Gross

Block cost)

Rs. 258 Lakhs

During the life of mine, the respective dumps shall be stabilized by forming terraces,

planting native tree species and geo-coir matting.

Mining is carried out by fully mechanized open cast mining method. Drilling and

blasting technique is used whenever required to handle hard formation. The

blasted material is excavated by the hydraulic excavators and front-end loaders

having various bucket capacities for achieving the planned production. The waste

excavation is also met with the machinery deployed as per the excavation plan.

No wet mineral processing will be done, only dry crushing and screening process done

for production of fines (0 to less than 10 mm) and Lumps (10 mm to less than 40 mm).

The ROM (Runoff Mine) is extracted from the mine pit and as per the size, ROM is fed

to screening & crushing plant.

The finished products are loaded on tippers by front end loader of suitable capacity

and stacked in designated stockpiles. The final product is being dispatched to

customers by tippers and allied weigh bridge operations. The low-grade ore is suitably

mixed with high grade ore to achieve desired Fe percentage and supplied to the

customers. The excavated material including ROM & waste is loaded into dumpers and

tippers for transportation of the material.

11.3 Resource Requirement:

The present land use, as shown in Table 11.2, indicates that the landscape over

an area of 24.82 Ha has already changed its topography. The anticipated land use

is shown in indicates that the land area of 24.82 Ha shall change its topography

by the conceptual plan period.

TABLE 11-2 Land use pattern-existing & proposed (Conceptual stage)

Sl

. No

Particulars Existing/Plan Period Conceptual Period

Forest

Revenue

Total Forest

Revenue

Total

1. Mining 9.15 0.60 9.75 12.46 0.60 13.06

2 Dumping 4.10 0.27 4.37 2.70 0.27 2.97


142

3 Mineral Storage -- 1.30 1.30 -- 1.30 1.30

4. Topsoil Yard -- -- -- -- -- --

5. Infrastructure/Statutory Building

-- 0.02 0.02 -- 0.02 0.02

6. Screening Plan -- 0.12 0.12 -- 0.12 0.12

7. Road -- 1.00 1.00 -- 1.00 1.00

8. Green Belt (Safety Zone)

2.06 1.04 3.10 2.06 1.04 3.10

9. Area for Eng. Measures -- -- -- -- -- --

10 Others

Biodiversity Area / Area Unused

1.00

1.91

--

2.25

1.00

4.16

1.00

--

--

2.25

1.00

2.25

Total 18.22 6.60 24.82

18.22 6.60 24.82

DUE TO ABOVE ACTIVITIES THE LANDSCAPE OF THE TERRAIN WILL BE MODIFIED TO SOME

EXTENT. FURTHER IMPACTS DUE TO CHANGE IN LAND SCENARIO AND LAND USE CAN

AFFECT THE TOP SOIL AND DRAINAGE PATTERN OF THE SURROUNDING AREA OF MINE

LEASE FOR WHICH MITIGATION MEASURES ARE BEING TAKEN.

Water Requirement:

Total water requirement is 24 KLD for dust suppression (12 KLD), plantation (8

KLD) and domestic use (4 KLD).

Manpower:

Total direct employment potential in the mine is 36 covering the statutory work

force and skilled, semiskilled &unskilled workforce. Indirect employment is

approximately 36.

11.4 Baseline Environmental Status:

Environmental monitoring was carried out for base line data generation during

October 2021 to December 2021 for 3 Months. Micrometeorology, Ambient air

quality, Water quality, Noise level, Soil quality, Socio-economic & Biodiversity study

was carried out within 10 km radius of the lease area.

11.4.1 Meteorology

Meteorological data for three months has been procured from the Indian

Metrological Department. Calm condition prevailed over 3% of the time of the study

period. The predominant wind directions were ESE over 16.7% of the time in which

speed of 2 to 4 m/s, 6% of the time in speed of 4-6 m/s was recorded. The next

predominant direction was East over 9.6% of the time in which speed of 2 to 4 m/s

was recorded. The seasonal wind rose diagrams for 24 hours period is given in

figure 3-6. Installation of Weather monitoring stations are in process and the


143

weather station will be installed in a suitable location without much disturbances

near the mine office for regular observation.

11.5 Ambient Air Quality

Ambient Air Quality Monitoring (AAQM) has been carried out at eight locations with

a frequency of two days per month for three months during Oct- Dec 2021. The

results thus obtained indicate that the concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, SO2, and NO2

in the ambient air are within the National Ambient Air Quality (NAAQ) standards

for Residential and Rural areas (Table-11.3).

TABLE 11-3 Ambient air quality levels

Sr. No. Parameters Values (Range)

(µg/m3)

Limits (µg/m3)

1 PM2. 5 35-47 60

2 PM10 63-80 100

3 SO2 13-17.9 80

4 NO2 12.33-28.3 80

5 CO 0.59-0.89 2

11.5.1 Water Quality

To assess the physical and chemical properties of water in the region, water

samples from four surface and eight ground water locations were collected around

the project site. In ground water, the Iron concentrations are found to be in the

range of 0.12 to 0.32 mg/l and were observed to be within the desirable limit of

0.30mg/l. The Fluoride is in the range of 0.47 to 1.26 mg/l which is below 1 mg/l

limit. Similarly, Nitrate is in the range of 6.6 to 13.2 mg/l which is below 45 mg/l

limit. The result shows that all the parameters are well within the acceptable limit

of IS: 10500 except the Hardness which is higher than prescribed limit at one

location but below the permissible limit.

In surface waters, the Iron concentrations are found to be BDL (Below detection

limit) and were observed to be within the desirable limit of 50.0mg/l. The TDS are

in the range of 380.73 mg/l, and is observed to be within the desirable limit of 1500

mg/l. Total Coliform organisms (MPN/100ml) is well below desirable limit of 5000.

The results show that all the parameters are well within the prescribed limit of IS:

2296 (Class C).


144

11.5.2 Noise Levels

Ambient noise levels were measured at eight locations around the existing mine

site. The daytime and night time noise levels in all the residential locations were

observed to be within the permissible limits. The Leq values are in the range of

36.54 to 48.36 dB (A).

11.5.3 Soil Quality

Eight representative soil samples were collected from core and buffer zone of mine

lease area and analyzed to assess the present soil quality of the region. In the core

zone, the soil cover is very less to support the vegetation and plant growth. The pH

of the soil is neutral to slightly alkaline in nature. The nitrogen, phosphorus and

potassium (NPK) values are less, which indicates that the soil is not supportive to

plants growth. Based on the results, it is evident that the soils are not contaminated

by any pollution sources.

11.5.4 Land Use

The land use pattern of the buffer zone i.e. 10 km radius area has been studied

based on satellite data. Further, land cover map has been generated on 1:50,000

scale using digital classification. Based on the said study major land use/land

cover categories are detailed in the Table No.11.4.

TABLE 11-4 Major land use/ Land cover categories

Sl. No. Category

Area in

Ha

% of the Study

Area

1 Agricultural Land 411.175 1.26

2 Fallow Land 4416.28 13.59

3 Dense Forest 10015.42 30.84

4 Land with Scrub 5989.675 18.44

5 Degraded Forest 6266.475 19.29

6 Settlements 1780.463 5.48

7 Mining Area 3583.83 11.03

8 Water bodies 11.18 0.034

Total 32474.5 100

11.5.5 Ecological Environment

The presence of Schedule-I species in the core and buffer zone are not reported.

Apparently, there is no presence of rare and endangered plants in the study area.

There are also no endangered and threatened fish found in the study area.


145

11.5.6 Social Environment

The study area (10 km radius) area has a total rural population of 47783 according

to 2011 census. The Sex ratio of the study area is 990 females per thousand male

populations. The percentage of male and female population to the total population

is 51% and 49% respectively.

People are positive about the project, provided environment is well taken care of.

The project brings in more employment opportunities including supporting jobs

resulting in economic & social development of the people & area.

11.6 Summary of Anticipated Environmental Impacts and

Mitigation

Rajapura Iron Ore Project is an existing operating mine. The environmental

management measures are being implemented. The summary of adverse

environmental impacts and mitigation measures are given in Table No.11.5.


146

TABLE 11-5 Environmental impacts and mitigation

Environmental

Component

Project Activities

Impacts Adverse / Beneficia

l

Mitigation Measures adopted

Air Quality Drilling and

Blasting

Dust (PM) and gases

(NOx) are produced during drilling and blasting operations

Adverse Avoid blasting during adverse weather

conditions.

Development of greenbelt.

Overburden removal,

extraction of iron ore, loading / unloading of

overburden and iron ore, stock

piling of iron ore, disposal of overburden at

dump site within mine lease area

Increase in PM levels in ambient air due to dust

generation and NO2 concentration levels in ambient air due to

vehicular emissions.

Adverse Exposed area is limited to the minimum required for mining operations.

Water sprinkling on mine hauls roads.

Overburden dumps are re-vegetated as soon as possible.

Use of canon mist / water sprinkler at

Dumping yards and stockpile.

Transportation of overburden and iron ore within

mine lease area

Increase in PM level due to dust generation and NO2 concentration

levels in ambient air due to vehicular emissions.

Adverse Regular watering on haul and access roads using water sprinkling trucks.

Plantation to act as a barrier for minimizing propagation of dust.

Iron ore crushing and handling at iron ore storage

area

Increase in PM concentration in ambient air.

Adverse Water sprinkling systems / dry fog dust suppression systems are installed for

control of dust emissions from dumper platform at crushing plant.


147

General equipment’s

operations

Elevate PM and NOx concentrations in

ambient air.

Adverse Regular maintenance of all equipment to minimize particulate matter emissions

from diesel engines.

All activities Excessive occupational

exposures to airborne particulate matter.

Adverse Occupational exposures to air pollutants

are periodically being assessed at regular intervals.

Engineering control measures are in place to handle the issue.

Provision & ensuring use of personal protective equipment

Additionally, management control measures are also resorted to as a last

control measure.

Noise Levels

and Ground Vibrations

Blasting Community annoyance

due to high impulsive noise levels, air

overpressure and ground vibrations.

Adverse Controlled blasting techniques are being

practiced.

Use of NONEL and optimizing maximum

charge per delay. Not conducting blasting in high wind conditions.

General activities

including machine &

transportation of overburden and iron ore within

the ML area.

Increase in noise levels

Occupational hazard due to noise exposures

and increase in ambient noise levels.

Adverse A detailed review of noise emissions and

impacts from project activities is being carried out at regular intervals during

the project life.

Occupational noise exposures will be

assessed. Where Leq (8 hour) noise exposures have the potential to exceed

85 dB (A), mitigation through engineered noise controls, management measures or, as a last resort, through the provision


148

of personal protective equipment will be implemented.

Regular noise monitoring will be carried-out.

Regular maintenance of equipments and providing silencers, rubberants to

reduce sound where ever applicable.

Water

Resources and Quality

Deepening of

ground water Reduction in

groundwater availability for domestic or local

business purposes

Reduction in

groundwater availability for irrigation purposes.

Deterioration in

surface/ground water quality of receiving

body.

Adverse Groundwater abstraction is not being

done for project activities.

Rainwater collection and harvesting is

being practiced.

Ground water quality monitoring is

being carried out once in season for 4 seasons in year.

Environment Management measures are being carried out

Water required for

mine (dust suppression systems,

workshop, domestic facilities

and greenbelt development)

Depletion of natural

resource.

Changes to hydraulic

regime.

Adverse The maximum requirement of water is

130 kld. Water conservation methods are being practiced.

Rainwater collection, Ground water recharge and reuse system has been

implemented.

Waste water generated from domestic usage at

Deterioration in ground water and soil quality when discharged

Adverse o The waste water from the toilets in mine office is discharged in to soak pit.


149

mine. untreated.

Hydrogeology

and Drainage pattern

Mining and waste

dumping

May change regional

hydrology and drainage pattern of the area.

Adverse Proper Drainage system is in place.

Land use and Soil Characteristi

cs

Mining and waste dumping

Existing land use of the core zone will alter.

Adverse Land reclamation shall be carried out

Flora and

Fauna

Mine

development and operations

Displacement of

existing flora and fauna. Habitat loss, with

consequent potential for adverse changes to species diversity and

abundance. Deterioration of habitat values caused by

fugitive dust and noise emissions.

Adverse Native species & fruit bearing species

have been planted. Regular plantation is being done.

Environmental Pollution,

Health, Safety

Overall Mining operation

Annoyance, sleep disturbance and health

impacts from noise emissions that exceed the safe limits.

Adverse Afforestation on periphery of the mine to act as barriers.

Water sprinklers on transport road, mine haul road, Dry Fog Dust

Suppression system for Crushing & Screening Plant.

Creating awareness among employees and villagers regarding the health &

healthy life style.

Conducting medical camps.


150

Socio-economic

Aspects

Diversion of Forest Land for

mining operations

Loss of land and vegetation

Adverse Regular plantation in the lease area.

Mining operations Increase in employment

opportunities both direct and indirect thereby increasing

economic status of people of the region.

Beneficial

Chapter-11 EIA-EMP of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt.K.M. Parvatamma, Bellary

151

11.7 Disaster Management Plan

An effective disaster management plan is already prepared and is given in the

EIA Report. The objective of the emergency preparedness and Disaster

Management Plan is to offset the chance of casualty / minimize damage(s) to

man, material and living beings in case there is any emergency. The benefits

anticipated on implementation of emergency preparedness and DMP are as

follows:

⮚ Effect the rescue and medical treatment of casualties;

⮚ Safeguard other people;

⮚ Minimize damage to property and the environment;

⮚ Initially contain and ultimately bring the incident under control;

⮚ Provide help and assistance to the affected persons;

⮚ Provide authoritative information to the news media;

⮚ Secure the safe rehabilitation of affected area; and

⮚ Preserve relevant records and equipment for the subsequent inquiry into

the cause and circumstances of the emergency.

In effect, it is to optimize operational efficiency to rescue rehabilitation and

render medical help and to restore normalcy.

11.8 Project Benefits

Social, Economic development

The existing Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt.K.M. Parvathamma. Has imparted

social benefits to surrounding population in the form of employment

opportunities, educational facilities, roads, communication facilities,

transportation, marketing, banking, postal services and health facilities directly

or indirectly. The civic amenities have already been developed due to existing

mine. The location of the mine has helped to improve the financial resources of

the surrounding population by way of petty trade and employment opportunities.

The project had encouraged for setting up of various utility services and petty

trade for local people i.e. in and around the mining lease area, and adjacent

villages.

Chapter-11 EIA-EMP of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt.K.M. Parvatamma, Bellary

152

11.9 Environmental Management Plan

The Environmental impacts and their Management Plan have been discussed in

the above table. Total Capital Investment proposed for Rajapura Project is about

Rs. 258Lakhs . Capital cost for environment management is Rs 25.8 lakhs and

the recurring cost per annum is Rs 25.8 Cr.

11.10 Reclamation and Rehabilitation of mined out areas

After complete extraction of iron ore in conceptual stage, the mined-out land within

the lease area will be fully reclaimed before abandoning the mine as per the

measures and guidelines in the approved Progressive and Final Mine Closure Plan.

The measures include technical and biological reclamation of mined out areas,

plantation with native species on dumps and mined out benches. The mine pit shall

be restored as a water reservoir.

11.11 Conclusion

The mine has established environment cell with qualified and experienced staffs

from the environmental field and the entire environmental management system

is guided by the documented Environmental Policy of the Company. The

Company implements best environmental practices and compliances to

applicable statutory requirements. The Environmental Clearance (under EIA

notification 2006) proposed for the project will encourage the Company towards

excellence of environmental practices and development of people around the

mine.

Chapter- 12 EIA-EMP of Rajapura Iron Ore Mine of Smt.K.M. Parvatamma, Bellary

153

12 DISCLOSURE OF CONSULTANTS ENGAGED

Ecomen Laboratories Pvt. Ltd, a multi-disciplinary professionally managed,

environmental consultancy services organization with an environmental

laboratory Accredited by NABL and with over 30 years standing, operates in 18

States of India.

It has following accreditations to its credit:

1. National Accreditation Board for Education and Training, Quality Council of

India (NABET- QCI).

2. National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)

International Accreditation ISO17025

3. Gazette Notified Laboratory by Ministry of Environment & Forest and Climate

Change (MoEF&CC).

4. Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSAS 18001:2007)

5. Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) for Ambient Air Quality

Monitoring

and Testing

6. Empanelled Consultant with State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) -Odisha

7. Participates in Proficiency test conducted by CPCB& scored 100% many times.

8.CPCB had selected Ecomen’s laboratory to analyze the samples of identified

industries jointly along with them pursuant to Hon’ble NGT order.

Our Range of Services Include

1. Preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) & Environmental

Management Plan (EMP) and subsequent Environment Clearance from

MoEF&CC, SEIAA, NOC /Consent from Pollution Control Board.

2. Generation of Baseline data as per Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 i.e.

Environmental Monitoring [Air, Water (Ground Water & Surface water), Noise,

Soil], Testing and Studies like Flora, Fauna, Socio Economic, Land Use, Ground

Water.

3. Minerals testing [in line with IBM directives that only NABL accredited lab can

do Mineral’s Testing]

4. Coal testing / analysis

5. Forest proposal for dereservation & clearance; Wild Life Management Plan

6. Groundwater survey, Water balance assessment & Geo hydrological study

7. Water management, recovery, recycling and reuse of waste water, Rain Water

Harvesting; commissioning of Piezometers

8. Thematic mapping using Remote Sensing, GIS & GPS. Preparing Land

use/Land cover maps. Digital Image processing


154

9. Environmental Audit, Risk Assessment, Disaster Management plan &

Compliance monitoring & report.

10. Training programme : Environment and Forest Clearance Process : To create

awareness leading to skill development in the 12 Functional Areas of

Environment Clearance as prescribed by NABET –QCI

11. ETP/STP operation & Maintenance

Achievements

100 EIA/EMPs approval of major client, all over India

50 Major Monitoring assessments, all over India

50 specialized studies

10 World Bank funded projects

Case studies awarded by MOEFCC

Setting site Labs

Awards:

Mr R N Bhargava /Ecomen is recipient of many prestigious awards as given

below:

i) ‘Silver Medal’ from Mining, Geological and Metallurgical Institute of India

[MGMI] for the paper ‘Noamundi – Long Range, Programme and Mine Planning’

[1969].

ii) ‘National Consultant’ of MOEF in ‘Industrial Pollution Prevention Project’; Gap

Analysis of some State Pollution Control Board’s Laboratories; conducted a

National Workshop [2001].

iii) ‘Certificate of Excellence’ for Implementation of World Bank funded Rural

Drinking Water & Environment & Sanitation project (2002).

iv) ‘LMA Creativity & Innovation Award 2014’ for very significant contribution

in any walks of life in India or abroad by way of his / her innovation or creativity.

v) ‘Udyog Ratan Award’ for the outstanding performance in the field of economic

& industrial development of the industry in the country and ‘Excellence Award’

for Ecomen for its class and quality services, from Institute of Economic Studies,

New Delhi (2015).

vi) ‘Life Time Achievement Award 2015’ to a Mining Engineer by Mining

Engineers Association of India.

vii) ‘Eminent Engineer Award (2017)’ by Institute of Engineer’s India on

consideration of eminence and contribution in the discipline of Environmental

Engineering.

viii) Many more

Our Clients/ Projects experience

Our clients include major Corporates, [ apart from World Bank aided projects &

MOEFCC assigned case studies] Tata Steel Mines, Rungtas, NMDC, CMPDI,


155

Heidelberg, Reliance, Ambuja Cements, J P Group, Everest Industries, L&T,

NTPC, KIOCL, Reliance Power, Lanco Power, Lafarge etc.

Our Resources

Ecomen distinguishes itself by outstanding experience, vision and exposure of

its key functionaries, experts, &specialists, in Industrial, Mining and

Environmental disciplines as also, Socio - Economic, Public Health & Sanitation,

Forestry and Management areas.

Ecomen has inherent expertise in the Chairman, Mr R N Bhargava (Ex Executive

Officer TATA Steel) with 57years of experience in three disciplines, Environment,

Mining and Management, supplemented by expertise of Dr K L Satapathy, M D

of the Company and professional Board of Directors.

Rajapur Iron Ore Mine - Karnataka State Pollution Control Board

Documents

Transcript of Rajapur Iron Ore Mine - Karnataka State Pollution Control Board