RAPID ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (REIA & EMP) FOR

JAISINGPUR IRON ORE MINE OF
M/S. ASHA MINING COMPANY, HOSPET

CHAPTER – 1
1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Profile of project proponent and background –

M/s. Asha Mining Company Hospet, Bellary, Karnataka are well
experienced in the mining and iron ore business for more than 20 years. The
applied area for mining lease is falls in R.M. Bock, Sandur range Forest, Bellary
Division, Karnataka State. Proponent is also running a logistic company for
transport of minerals.
1.2 Genesis of the Project –
This is an applied mining lease area for iron ore extraction over an extent
of 10.12 Ha. The project is named in the style as “Jaisingpur Iron ore mine”. For
this purpose a mining plan has been prepared and obtained approval from IBM,
Bangalore vide their approval letter No.279/794/20104/BNG dated 18/08/2004.
The proposed production of iron ore is 70,000 tpa. There will be an incidential
production of 5000 tpa of subgrade ore analyzing 58 to 62% of Fe.
Application for mining lease has been made to the Govt. of Karnataka.
Govt. of Karnataka has asked the proponent to submit mining plan , clearance
from MOEF and Karnataka State Pollution Control Board for granting the mining
lease. Hence a rapid EIA & EMP has been prepared and submitted along with
Form I, MOEF has issued Terms of Reference (TOR) and asked the proponent to
incorporate TOR and submit application to KSPCB seeking Public Consultation
(Refer Annexure-I).
1.3 Brief description of nature, size, location of the project and its importance
to the region and country
The subject applied lease area falls in Ramgad RF of Sandur taluk, Bellary
district of Karnataka state. The total extent of the lease area is 10.12 Ha and
entire area forms part of forest land.
 2

Liberalisation of exports and increase in the demand of iron ore in the

international & domestic market for low grade iron ore, lessee can cater to the
increased market requirements by the proposed iron ore production from this
lease.
1.4 If the lease area/bufferzone is ecologically fragile justification for the
project
The entire portion of the lease area falls in forest land. There is
ecologically sensitive site existing within the lease and bufferzone area. No
houses exist within the Mining Lease area.

1.5 Status and stage of regulatory clearance like approval of the mining plan,
forestry clearance etc.

The lessee has to obtain Environmental Clearance from MOEF, New

Delhi as per the Environmental Notification 2006, for new mining projects. In this
respect a presentation for Terms of Reference was made at Environmental
Appraisal Committee (MOEF) meeting held on 15.03.2007. Application is being
submitted to Karnataka Sate Pollution Board (KSPCB) to conduct Public Hearing
Process.
A mining plan was got approved from IBM, Bangalore vide their approval
letter No.279/794/20104/BNG dated 18/08/2004.
The final REIA & EMP with regulatory scoping carried out including the
terms of reference is thus being presented under the category of new mining
projects.
A Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment (REIA) and Environmental
Management Plan (EMP) is prepared based on the baseline information of the
project covering a 5 kms radius bufferzone around the mining lease area.
Baseline data has been generated covering the pre-monsoon month of April
2007.
The impact of the proposed mining project has been discussed and the net
effect is summarized using impact prediction models. Finally, the steps to be
initiated to mitigate the adverse effects have been spelt out here with a view to
maintain the original environmental quality of the area.
 3

CHAPTER – 2

2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 General Description of the Project –
M/s Asha mining Company, Hospet has applied for mining lease for iron
ore in RM Block, Sandur Range Forest, Bellary Division, Karnataka State over an
extent of 10.12 Ha. Lessee proposes to produce iron ore @70,000 tonnes per
annum by using semi-mechanised opencast mining method.
The lease area is located at Latitude N15o10’05” and Longitude E 76o26’00.
The general location plan is enclosed vide Figure No.2.1 showing the disposition
of the project site and the surrounding features. A lease sketch is enclosed
showing the project site layout vide Figure No.2.2
The lease area forms part of Ramgad RF of Sandur Range Forest . The
run of the hill range is NW-SE. The aspect is NE & SW. The highest and lowest
elevations of the area are 948m and 860m above msl respectively. The rain
water valleys drain the water to the bottom. The rain water from area is coursed
to natural drainage nallah which drains the water into village tanks which are
situated nearby in villages. The vegetation around the ML area is scant and does
not have any timber yielding varieties.
2.2 GEOLOGY AND RESERVES
• Regional Geology :
The rock formations in this region belong to the Dharwar super group of
the iron ore stage. The Bellary-Hospet region forms a part of the ‘Sandur Schist
Belt’. The lithological units include green stones which are the metamorphosed
basic igneous rocks occupying the valley regions, phyllitic-quartzites forming
canoe – shaped amphitheatre of hills trending NNW - SSE.
The host rocks are Banded Hematite Quartzites which gave rise to
secondary deposits of iron ore which form the peaks of the hill ranges as they are
weather resistant. The lateritisation of the ferruginous quartzites followed by
leaching of silica, alumina and alkalis has given rise to the iron ore deposits of
the area.
The general strike direction of the formations is NW-SE. The dips vary
from 630 to 650 towards NE. The quality of ore is good analyzing 63% to 65% of
Fe.
 4

• Local Geology :
The general sequence of rock formations found in the lease is as given below:
Soil Mixed with Iron Ore float
Laterite exposures
Iron ore
Shale/phyllite
BHQ
The general strike direction of the formations is Northwest & Southeast.
In the applied area the laterite cap is about 5 m to 6 m above iron ore
deposit and this laterite cap, the recovery of ore is only 80% and balance 20% is
considered as intercalated waste having shale/phyllite and below lateritic cap iron
ore deposit is observed in old workings in the applied area .
• Exploration :

The lessee intends to put 5 nos. of boreholes with a depth of 20m to 60m
each or up to the full depth of ore body. The places of the proposed boreholes
are shown in the geological plan vide Fig. No. 2.3 enclosed. It is proposed to use
the Core Drill bits to get core of the proposed boreholes to know the quality and
behavior of the ore body in depth. Entire strike length is exposed at the surface
as the deposit is outcropping. The total exposed strike length is 150m with an
average ore body width of 20m.

2.2.2 Geological Reserves:

From the exposed ore zone and other available information, geological
reserves have been estimated. The estimated geological reserves have been put
at 1.29 million tonnes.
Category wise reserves are given below:
Units: In Tonnes

Proved reserves 47,000

Probable reserves 933,000
Possible reserves 313,000
Total 12,93,000

Geological plan and sections is enclosed vide Figure No.2.3.

 5

2.2.3 Mining :
The proposed method of mining will be opencast. The mine will be
developed systematically by maintaining a bench height of 6.0m. The semi
mechanized opencast mining shall be adopted for achieving the target of 50,000
tonnes initially to 70,000 tonnes of production per annum during the 5 year of
plan period.

The pit position at the end of 5 year plan period and Conceptual Stage
is shown vide Figure Nos.2.4 & 2.5 respectively.
 6

CHAPTER - 3
BASELINE DATA

3.0 DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENT

For assessing the anticipated Environmental Impact caused due to

Jaisingpur Iron ore mine, an area of 5 kms radius was considered. The 5 kms
radius was split into two zones viz., Core and buffer zones. The core zone
represents the mining lease area, which is a potential source of pollution. The
buffer zone consists of the balance of 5 kms radius area.
3.1 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring (Source – Nearest IMD station)
3.1.1 Climate and Meteorology :
- Distance as the crow flies of the nearest IMD station
The nearest IMD station is located at Bellary which is at a distance of 60kms.
- On site hourly meteorological data in respect of wind speed and direction,
temperature, cloud amount and height (type), average daily rainfall.

¾ Meteorological data has been collected using weather monitoring station located
at the project site during the study period. The parameters like daily maximum
and minimum temperatures, relative humidity, wind speed and wind direction
were collected for the summer season 2007.

The maximum and minimum temperature during April 2007 was found to
be 40.50C and 230C. The relative humidity ranged from 45% to 90%. The day
maximum wind speed recorded was 17.5km/hr during the study period. The
predominant wind direction was NE direction.. Metrological data collected during
study period is enclosed vide Annexure II. The annual average rainfall for the
past 10 years was found to be 735.1 mm/year.

- Wind rose at site

¾ Using the hourly meteorological data i.e., wind speed & wind direction a
combined wind rose diagram is drawn depicting the predominant wind direction
with the wind speed. Refer Figure No.3.1 enclosed.
 7

3.1.2 Location (distance and direction) of monitoring stations. Chosen /to be

selected conforming to wind rose;

°
WITH RESPECT TO ML AREA
STATIONS
DIRECTION DISTANCE (Km)
Core zone -- --
Buffer Zone
Jaisingpur village NNE 1.38
Siddapur village SEE 4.50
Gunda village SW 4.50

The ambient air monitoring stations were selected based on the

predominant wind direction for the past 10 years and also considering the
windrose at the site for the study period. Location of air monitoring stations is
shown in Figure No.3.2a and Graphical representation of Mean Air quality
levels is shown in Figure No.3.2b.

Ambient air quality data from the buffer zone villages of 5 kms radius is
obtained. The locations of air monitoring stations were fixed after considering the
previous years meteorological data of predominant wind direction. Totally Four
stations were fixed during summer season, out of these four stations one station
represents the core zone activities and remaining three stations represent the air
quality status in the buffer zone. The air samples were collected continuously for
24 hours per sample basis for core zone & buffer zone stations. The parameters
such as SPM, RPM, SO2, NOx & CO were monitored.

- Terrain feature around air quality monitoring stations to assess likely

impact of the terrain characteristics on air quality.

¾ The area where the mining activity is proposed is located on the top of the hill
and the monitoring stations are located on the general ground level. The highest
and lowest elevations of lease area are 948 and 860m above msl. The villages
are located about 600 m above msl.
 8

- Air pollutants : SPM, RSPM, SO2, NOx, CO, trace of heavy metals (Fe, Mn,
Pb etc) in SPM in core zone and buffer zone (24 hourly monitoring) and any
other project specific pollutants like radiological parameters e.g. radon in
mine exhaust air, radium and uranium in mine water and radionuclides etc.
from atomic minerals for one season except monsoon.
¾ The frequency of sampling is as given below.
For Buffer zone and Core zone Stations :
1 station x 1 (24 hrly.) sample/day x 2 days/week x 4 weeks/season = 8
samples/season for buffer zone villages and core zone

- Maximum, minimum and 98 percentile of air quality data and applicable air
quality standards.
Units: µgm/m3
SPM RPM SO2 NOx CO
Core Zone 122 – 224 44 – 74 15-18 19-23 BDL
Buffer Zone 79 – 185 35 – 93 8 – 21 10 – 22 BDL
Permissible limits
Rural/Residential areas 200 100 80 80 2000
Industrial areas 500 150 120 120 5000
Sensitive area 100 75 75 30 1000
The carbon monoxide (CO) for the above buffer zone stations were found
to be below detection limit of <100 μg/cu.m
A details of ambient air quality data collected in field and Statistical
representation of air quality is enclosed are enclosed vide Annexure No. III,
IV & V.

- Fugitive emissions around the mining operations, crushing operations, ore

processing operations and ore beneficiation plant as also along the
transportation routes.

¾ Not applicable as this is a new mining project.

 9

3.2 ENVIRONMENT OF NOISE :

3.2.1 Locations of monitoring stations in accordance with direction and distance

°
WITH RESTPECT TO ML AREA
STATIONS
DIRECTION DISTANCE (Km)
Core zone -- --
Buffer Zone
Jaisingpur village NNE 1.38
Siddapur Village SEE 4.50
Gunda village SW 4.50
Venkatagiri village N 2.70

Noise was monitored at one core zone station and three buffer zone villages.
Location of Noise Monitoring stations is shown in Figure No.3.3
3.2.2 Terrain feature be provided along with noise quality monitoring stations to
assess the likely impact of the terrain characteristics on noise quality.
¾ The mine lease area is having an elevation of 948 above msl located on a
hill top and villages are located in the valley portions between hill ranges at 600
m above msl.
3.2.3 Noise levels i.e., Leq (day) and Leq (night) for each station in core zone and
buffer zone viz. along with applicable standards.

¾ From the monitored data, the Leq noise level during day time at core
zone station is 55 dB(A). The Leq during day time at buffer zone villages range
from 37.0 to 51.5 dB(A) and Leq during night time ranges from 35.0 to 41.2
dB(A). In forest area Leq day time is 38.9 dB(A) and Leq during night time is
33.8dB(A).The noise level recorded during study period is given vide Annexure
No.VI

The data show that all the buffer zone villages and corezone stations
have noise levels below the permissible limits of CPCB.

3.2.3 Noise levels due to mining activity, ore processing units, beneficiation
plant and transportation routes.
¾ Not applicable as no mining operations have been commenced.
 10

3.2.4 Vibrations caused due to blasting operations.

¾ Drilling is proposed to be conducted using jackhammer holes of 32/33

mm dia using m.s. delay detonators. Total quantity of explosives being 76 Kgs,
vibration caused shall minimum. Also villages are located more than 1.38 Kms
away at an elevation difference of 300 m.
3.3 WATER ENVIRONMENT :
3.3.1 Locations of monitoring stations with direction and distance
°
Sr. WITH RESTPECT TO ML AREA
STATIONS
No. DIRECTION DISTANCE (Km)
Buffer Zone
1 Jaisingpur village bore water NNE 1.38
2 Siddapur Bore water SEE 4.50
3 Venkatagiri village bore water N 2.70
4 Gunda village bore water SW 4.50

Total 4 ground water samples were collected during summer season

2007. The locations were selected based on the potential pollution indicators,
topography and by field situation. The location of water sampling stations are
given vide Fig No. 3.4.
3.3.2 Rainfall data, runoff and sediment data from nearby reputed institution
should be used.
¾ The annual average rainfall for the past 10 years was found to be 735.1
mm/year.
3.3.3 Physico-chemicals including toxic heavy metals, biological and
bacteriological characterization of surface and ground water resources for
assessment of water quality, upstream and downstream surface water
quality with respect to mining lease area.
¾ The analysis results of surface water samples show that all the
parameters are within the permissible limit of IS: 10500- 1999 norms (DWS). The
analysis results are given vide Annexure No. VII.
 11

3.3.4 Delineation of water sheds and water drainage pattern in study area using
cadastral/area/remote sensing satellite imageries as are normally available
¾ The terrain around the mining area is highly undulating with vegetative
cover. Water on the hill slopes and valley areas gets collected in low lying area
and is partly absorbed in the upper laterite material besides contributing to
seasonal streams. The valleys drain the rain water to the bottom. The rain water
from the area is coursed to natural drainage nallah which drains the water into
village tanks which are situated in the area.
3.3.5 Surface water balance of river in study are and withdrawal of surface water
for project activity
¾ Surface water balance is a book keeping of the total inflows and out-flows
in a given watershed during a given monsoon season.
3.3.6 Hydrogeology and Aquifer characteristics of the area
¾ Hydrogeology :
Jaisingpur Iron Ore Mine of M/s. Asha Mining Company, Hospet is
located latitude of 15010’05”N and longitudes of 76026’00”E in Jaisingpur village
of Sandur taluk of Bellary district, Karnataka. The extent of ML area is 10.12 Ha.
Keeping the mining lease at the center, a radius of 5 kms area was
identified as a buffer zone in order to study the ground water conditions. The
study area covers an area of 78.5 sq.km encompassing 4 villages including small
hamlets.
The study is intended to assess the available ground water resources,
ground water draft and future scope for ground water development and also to
assess the likely impact of ground water abstraction due to mining activity in the
area.
Topography and Drainage :
The ML area forms part of Ramgad Reserve Forest. The run of the hill
range is NW to SE. The aspect is SW & NE. The highest and lowest elevations
are 948m and 560m above msl respectively. The rain water valleys drain the
rain water to the bottom. The rain water from the area is coursed to natural
drainage nallah which drains the water into village tanks which are situated
around M.L. areas. A drainage plan is enclosed as Figure No.3.5
 12

The lease area is a part of slope of residual hills and pediment over
Darwar group with narrow bands of resistant ridges which has poor ground water
potential of ground water is observed along structurally controlled zones. Most of
the buffer zone area forms a part of pediment over peninsular gneiss, residual
hills and resistant ridges / homoclinal ridges which acts as poor to moderate
ground water potential areas moderate to good along fractures and homoclinal
ridges along dip ward side.
The mining of iron reef shall be confined to 874m msl where as the valley
floor is at 560m msl. The water table occurs at an elevation of 530m above msl.
At no time the mine workings shall cross the water table.
For working of this mine we need water for dust suppression on the
haulage road and mine working area 40 KLD, green belt / afforestation 5 KLD
and domestic and drinking 2 KLD making a total of 47 KLD. This water is
procured from the village borewells.
- If mining will be intersecting ground water
¾ Mining does not intersect the water table at any stage. Water table shall
be more than 300m below the deepest working.
3.3.7 Groundwater potential including water harvesting; recharge and water
balance of the area: Groundwater recharge and balance available for
present and future use.
¾ Mine workings shall not intersect the ground water table. Hence there is
no scope of depletion of ground water.
Water harvesting – harvesting of the mine pit discharge and rainwater to
recharge the aquifers can be the important part of keeping the groundwater
regime unaffected. The mine pit discharges can be put either on the plateaus by
making large pits to recharge both shallow and deep aquifer or it can be pumped
into the contour parallel trenches on plateau slopes so that the groundwater is
recharged continuously. This not only recharges the shallow aquifers but also the
silt can be effectively filtered.
The second option would be to dig a pit of 3m by 3m size to a depth
penetrating the entire thickness of the laterite. This well type trench should be
dug on the plateau top or slope close to the village side and filtered mine pit
water should be filled into this pit. This also can regenerate the groundwater
levels.
 13

3.3.8 Water requirement and waste water production from mine lease area,
mining townships, ore processing & beneficiation plant and other facilities;
¾ Total water requirement for this mining is 47 KLD to be obtained from
borewells in the villages From this mine no waste water shall be produced. There
are no townships and beneficiation plants using wet methods.
3.3.9 Waste water treatment, recycle and reuse of effluent
No waste water shall be generated during mining operations, the only
water that is encountered during the mining activity is rain water. Which is very
small as the area is draught prone with scant rainfall
3.3.10 Rainwater harvesting to reduce impact on groundwater
The pit itself forms a major rainwater harvesting structure and also enhances
the groundwater level to certain extent.
3.3.11 Details of existing water bodies and water bodies to be created as a result
of mining activities both in the core zone and buffer zone in pit to certain
extent.
The valleys drain the rain water to the bottom. The rain water from the area
is coursed to natural drainage nallah which drains the water into village tanks
which are situated in the area.

3.4 Land Environment :

3.4.1 Representative locations of monitoring stations with direction and distance
WITH RESTPECT TO ML AREA
STATIONS
DIRECTION DISTANCE (Km)
Core zone (Top soil)
Top soil (Corezone) -- --
Buffer Zone
Jaisingpur village ag. soil NNE 1.38
Siddapur village ag. soil SEE 4.50
Gunda village ag. soil SW 4.50
Venkatagii village ag.soil N 2.70

Location of Soil sampling stations are shown in Figure No.3.6.

 14

3.4.2 Collection soil samples from monitoring stations and their texture
representing core and buffer zone, physico-chemical and microbiological
characterization
Flora and fauna of any area depend largely upon the quality of soil.
Therefore, it is essential to know the quality of soil in the core zone and buffer
zone areas. The soil quality data obtained will help one to plan properly
plantation and green belt development. For this five soil samples were collected
within the buffer zone of 5 kms radius. Out of five stations, one station is located
at ML area depicting mine top soil. The remaining four stations are located at
agricultural field soils at Jaisingpur, Siddapur, Gunda and Venkatagiri villages.

At the above mentioned sites, 2 kgs of soil samples were collected by

means of augur and core cutter in polythene bags and sent to the laboratory for
analysis. The soil samples were collected over a depth of 15 cms that
represents the top soil layer.
3.4.3 Fertility status of soil samples at different sampling stations
The analysis results are given vide Annexure No.VII . The results show that
most of the soil samples are clay except mine top soil which is Silty clay in nature
and most of the other parameters show the normal quality. For better crop yield
addition of urea and phosphorous-based fertilizers is required.
3.4.4 Study of land – use pattern, cropping pattern, vegetation cover etc.
employing remote sensing techniques (if available) and ground truthing
and also through secondary data source.
The landuse pattern within the study area is shown vide Fig.No.3.7.
Most of the area within the study area of 5 km buffer zone is covered by forest
area/natural cover of 72.94%. The different land use pattern with percentages is
given in the table below.
 15

Table No. 3. 1 : Buffer zone Landuse

Sl. AREA PERCENTAGE

LAND USE
No. (Sq.Km) (%)
1 Forest land 57.25 72.94
2 Agriculture land 13.55 17.25
3 Railway track 0.02 0.03
4 Roads 0.04 0.05
5 Revenue/waste land 7.20 9.17
6 Settlement area 0.16 0.20
7 Water bodies 0.28 0.36
TOTAL 78.50 100.00

3.4.5 Study in relation to the trend of change in land use pattern for the last 10
years based on remote sensing data and its extrapolation to future 10 to 20
years with and without EMP for mining activity.
The ultimate land use pattern with in the core zone is shown in the table
below and shown in Figure No.3.8.

Table No. 3.2: Landuse (Core zone)

Sl. No. LAND USE Ultimate (Ha.)
1 Area under mining 3.95
2 Overburden / waste 4.32
3 Roads 0.25
4 Virgin area 1.60
TOTAL 10.12

3.4.6 Determination of leaching properties of overburden samples to define the

load of heavy metal pollutants in run-off water
From the study of the run off water and ground water samples for any
leachants discharging heavy metals into the ground water in the mining area no
adverse results were detected. Therefore, it is presumed that there are no
deleterious effects of leachants on ground water or surface run off water.
3.5 Biological Environment
Data have been collected from various Government departments such as
Forest, agriculture, fisheries and animal husbandry to establish the biological
environmental conditions.
 16

3.5.1 Assessment of plant species with respect to dominance, density, frequency,

abundance, diversity index, similarity index, Importance Value Index etc.
within the study area in different ecosystems, mangroves in wetland area
wherever applicable.
The status of Flora & Fauna within the core zone and buffer zone were
collected from the local forest department and also limited field studies were
conducted to identify the different species that are prevalent. The forest area is
dry deciduous type.
3.5.2 Collection of primary/secondary data (authenticated) on forest and non
forest flora in impact zone with respect to above parameters and forest
area and floristic structure, rare and endangered species, endemic species,
ethno botanical aspects, medicinal plants, major & minor forest produce,
afforestation / social forestry.
Flora :
a) Core zone : The core zone falls in the Ramagd Reserve forest which is
drydeciduous in nature. The core zone consisting of bare residual hill
containing hard rock formation enriched with iron ore as such the conditions
are not much favorable for tree growth as very little soil exist on the hill. The
flora does not contain many timber yielding species nor do they have good
green cover. The predominant species are Anogeissus latifolia, Accacia
catechu,Albizzia Amara, Chloroxylon swietenia, Dalbergia Paniculata,
Ptrerocarpus marsupium. Emlicaofficinalis, Tamrindus Idica .

b) Buffer zone : In the buffer zone covering 5 kms radius area the floral
species are covered to assess the baseline environmental quality.
In the study area we come across dry deciduous forest types. Most of the
species that exist in the core zone area also spread in the buffer zone area. The
predominant species are, Tectona grandis,Cassia fistula, Chloroxylon swietena,
Limonia acidissima, Anogeissus latifolia, Dalbergia Paniculata,Pterocarpus
marsupium, Soymida febrifuga, Sterospermum chelonoides, Bosewellia Serrata,
Dendocalamus strictus.
 17

Fauna :

a. General :
Presently the mine is not working as the same will be reflected in the
faunal content, distribution, proliferation etc. So the study of fauna within the
core zone and buffer zone to assess the baseline environmental status was
established.
b. Species :
In the core zone commonly found animals are crow pheasant, green bee
eater, red vented bulbul, house crow, house sparrow.
The mammals found are Wild boar, Fox, mongoose, Peacock, common
mouse. The reptiles found are cobra, common krait and lizard.
In the bufferzone, most of the corezone fauna also spread. The other
faunal animals are Wild cat, Hare, Wild boar, leopard, Fox, rat snake, Bennet
Macaque, Common langur, Porcupine, Jackal etc.
3.5.3 Information on the dependence of the local people on minor forest produce
and their cattle grazing rights in the forest land.
¾ The area does not support and generate forest produce and hence no
one depends upon the forest produce.
3.5.4 Collection of secondary data on agricultural activity, crops and their
productivity and irrigation facilities.
¾ In the buffer zone 17.25% of agriculture land is available in 5 km radius.
Most of the farmers depend on rain as a water source for agriculture purpose.
Land available is dry land. Some farmers are depending on ground water with
pumping facility for water source. But in summer all the bore wells get dry due to
depletion of ground water level. Only one crop is achieved in dry lands & two
crops are grown in wet lands. No other irrigation facilities provided by Govt. like
lift irrigation or canal etc., Crop pattern in the bufferzone area is as given below:

Present Year Previous Year

Sl. Crop
Yield / Acres yield /Acres Remarks
No. Name
(Quintal) (Quintal)
1 Shorgum 7 to 8 6 Decrease in rainfall
2 Jowar 7 to 8 6 ”
3 Maize 6 to 7 6 ”
4 Sunflower 5 4 ”
 18

3.5.5 Estimation of number and types of trees and shrubs, which would be cut
during deforestation for mining activity and other facilities.
¾ The ML area is in Ramghad Reserve Forest which is dry deciduous in
nature. No major trees and medicinal plants are present in the corezone area.
Thorny bushes are present in the proposed mining area. Tree density of the
area is 0.10. The land utilized for mining purposes shall be reclaimed by
afforestation and backfilling & afforestation proposed in worked out pits shall
bring the area to greenery

3.6 SOCIO-ECONOMIC COMPONENT

3.6.1 Collection of baseline data on human settlements, health status of the

community and existing infrastructure facilities for social welfare including
sources of livelihood, job opportunities and safety & security of workers
and surrounding population
The baseline data on socio-economic aspect are meant to cover the following.
(i) Demographic features
(ii) Amenities like educational facilities, medical facilities etc.,
(i) Demographic Profile:
There are 2 villages & 2 hamlets falling within the buffer zone of 5 kms
radius. The population breakup of all villages falling within the buffer zone as per
2001 census data is given in Annexure No. IX. From the data it is seen that the
total population within the buffer zone is 2938 as per 2001 census. Population
breakup of the study area is shown in Fig No. 3.9 a. The schedule caste and
schedule tribe population in the buffer zone works out to be 31.52% and 41.06%
respectively. The male & female population comprises of 50.82% & 49.18%
respectively.
a) Literacy :
The literacy levels within the buffer zone are given in Annexure No. IX.
The literacy level is depicted pictorially in Fig. No. 3.9 b. The literacy levels within
the buffer zone is 31.92% of the total population. The literacy rate of male is
43.15% as compared to 20.32 % for female.
 19

b) Occupation :
The details about the occupation of the population within the buffer zone
are tabulated in Annexure No. IX. Occupational pattern within the buffer zone
is shown in Fig. No. 3.9 c. There are 1444 workers forming 49.25% of total
population comprising agricultural workers, cultivators, quarry workers and house
industries workers, marginal and other workers. Remaining population of 1488
or 50.75% are non-workers. Non-workers in the area include children and old
people.

ii) Amenities available in the buffer zone :

The study area is provided with good basic amenities like education,
medical, drinking water and approach roads.

a) Transportation & Communication - All the villages in the buffer zone

are well connected by roads and public transport facility.

b) Educational facilities - In village panchayats educational facilities are V

available upto primary standards. For higher education the students of this area
have to go to Hospet and Sandur towns. However Post Graduate centere of
Gulbarga University are located at Bellary city & Nandihalli near Sandur town.
Hospet has number of higher education colleges such as Engineering,
Polytechnic & Ayurveda College.

c) Medical Facilities -
In bufferzone village no Govt. primary health centers are available only
private dispensaries are available for primary health check up. Trained Medical
Nurses and Health supervisors visit village once or twice in week for Health
checkups especially for children and women.
Apart from medical and health care rendered to the mine workers, there is
also a Govt. hospital at Sandur & Hospet town to meet the medical requirement
of mine workers, staff and bufferzone villagers. Iron ore cess Welfare Fund
hospital is located at Kariganur whose doctors attend mine workers and extend
medical facilities to the needy.
 20

d) Drinking water supply :

Most of the villagers depend upon the ground water for meeting the
drinking water requirements. Some villages have piped water supply for domestic
and drinking purpose.

e) Post, telegraph and telephone facilities:

Postal, telegraphic and telephone facilities are available in all villages
mobile signals are also reachable in almost all buffer zone villages, thus wireless
communication is available for mines and other places.
f) Electricity :
All the villages in the buffer zone are serviced by state electricity
department.
g) Marketing facility :
In bufferzone villages petty shops available for daily purchase of
grossaries and vegetables. Besides these people depend on Hospet & Sandur
towns for bulk purchases.

3.6.2 Collection of information with respect to social awareness about the

developmental activity in the area and social welfare measures existing and
proposed by project proponent
Villagers are socially conscious about the welfare schemes of Govt.
The amount earmarked for socio-economic welfare measures for the
nearby villages shall be Rs.5 lakh / annum from the project proponent.
The money shall be spent for education, sanitation, water supply, health
and community activities in the neighboring villages. Majority of the employees
shall be drawn from the local villages
3.6.3 Collection of information on sensitive habitats of historical, cultural and
ecological importance.
No ecological sensitive habitats of historical importance exist within the
bufferzone area.
 21

3.6.4 If private land owners are in the core zone, census study should be carried
out to suggest rehabilitation action plan.
Not applicable as no private land is involved in mining . The entire lease
area is forest land. No human settlement are present within corezone, hence
rehabilitation plan is not required.
3.7 Occupational Health
3.7.1 Number of workers to be employed and category of hazardous jobs
assigned and the duration
Total number of proposed workers shall be - 67
For loading & unloading Job – 8
Duration – 8 hour per day
Drilling & blasting – 4
Drilling activity – 8 hour per day
3.7.2 List of hazardous operations/activities.
Drilling & Blasting, Loading & compressors operation.
3.7.3 The existing practices adopted for assessment of occupational health
including the details of medical examination and the facilities.
As per DGMS norms detailed medical examinations & facilities shall be
provided. Mining activities are yet to begin, once the activities begin, all the
workers shall be examined as per the requirement of DGMS circular.
 22

CHAPTER - 4

4.0 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION

MEASURES

4.1 The Project proponent shall assess the adverse impacts and indicate the
proposed effective mitigating steps to abate the impacts

The mining activities proposed will have both positive and negative effect
on the surroundings. The impact could be either useful or detrimental to the
environment. The net impact could be determined by evaluating the impact on
various parameters.
The parameters with adverse impact due to unavoidable reasons have to
be nullified, kept to the minimum or brought to have positive effects by taking
suitable corrective measures, it is possible to create better environment.
The project being considered will have a bearing on the socioeconomic
aspects as well as on the environment due to mining and other incidental
activities. The impact depends upon the extent of mechanization, method of
mining, infrastructure facilities, environmental profile and characteristics of
environment.
The impact prediction due to the project has been made in respect of the
parameters considered in the present scenario. i.e., the quality of parameters of
ambient air, water, socio-economic aspects, inventory of flora and fauna.

The tree species found within the core zone represent the common type
of flora species along with small shrubs and bushes. Due to mining activities
community structure of the vegetation will not change. Where as diversity of plant
species and food web index of the area reduced to certain extent.

However, if the proposed reclamation of the mining area and dumped out
area using proper re-vegetation techniques and development of green belt
around the ultimate pit limit and roadside, there shall be an improvement in the
species diversity and Food web Index compared to the existing level.
 23

4.1 Air Environment :

THE PROJECT PROPONENT SHALL ASSESS THE ADVERSE IMPACT

AND INDICATE THE PROPOSED MITIGATING STEPS TO ABATE THE
LIKELY ADVERSE IMPACT RELATING TO THE FOLLOWING:
4.1.1 Emission inventory of SPM (including RPM), SO2, NOx
In the subject opencast mining, operations like drilling and blasting,
loading, transportation, and unloading operations of overburden and iron ore may
deteriorate the air quality.
The levels of Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) for the ambient air
quality in the buffer zone villages are well within the permissible limits. However,
the SPM content in the fugitive sources like various mining operations are likely
to be high. The concentration of NOx and SO2 are very much below the
permissible limits in the buffer zone villages.
Green belt development and water spraying on haul roads results in the
reduction in dust concentration.
4.1.2 Prediction of impacts on ambient air quality using appropriate
mathematical models, ISCST or FDM Model be used for Air Quality Impact
Prediction (AQIP)
Impact assessment is an important part of Environmental Impact
Assessment Study. There are various techniques available to predict the
impacts. Mathematical modeling is an established and accepted technique to
predict the impacts. The open cast mines are potential sources of air pollution.

In this section impact on air environment due to emissions generated

from proposed mining by M/s. Asha Mining Company is assessed. The mine is
located near Jaisingpur Village in Sandur Taluk of Bellary district. The mining
lease area is 10.12 hectares. Concentrations have been predicted by
mathematical modeling.
 24

4.1.3 AIR QUALITY PREDICTIONS THROUGH MATHEMATICAL MODELLING

A. 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 open cast mines are potential sources of air pollution.
In this section impact on air environment due to emissions generated
from Jaisingpur Iron Ore mine is assessed. Concentrations have been
predicted by mathematical modelling.
B EMISSION SOURCES

B(I) EMISSION RATES

The emissions in the present case have been computed using empirical factor
given in “Indian Mining and Engineering Journal”. The details of emissions
computed from mining operations are given below:
Production + Development (Waste) = 64256 t + 68800 t = 133056 tonnes
Total material handling = 133056 tonnes/year
Rate of emission:

= 133056/ (300days x 10 hr/day)

= 44.352 tonnes/hr
Rate of emission being 23.6 kg/hr for handling 1000 t/hr the emission rate shall
be

= 44.352 t/hr x 23.6 kg/hr = 1.047 kg/hr.

1000 t/hr
or 0.2900 gm/sec

The emission rates and conditions have been summarized in Table – 1.

B(II) EMISSION SOURCE COORDINATES

The center of mine was assumed (0, 0) in the mathematical modelling.

C MATHEMATICAL MODEL FOR POLLUTANTS DISPERSION

In the present case ISCST (Industrial Source Complex-Short Term ISC-3) model
has been used to predict the impacts. This ISC model for area sources uses the
steady state Gaussian plume equation for a continuous source.
 25

Further the model has following specialties:

- Simulates dispersion from single/multiple/area/line/volume sources.

- Allows calculations to be made at a user specified regular

rectangular/radial grid or at specified special receptors.

- Provides estimates of concentrations for any averaging time period for

the entire period of input meteorology.

- Allows calculations to be underwritten for source groups as selected

by the user.

- Uses Pasquill-Gifford or Briggs dispersion curves (for urban areas) as

selected by the user, to derive the plume spread parameters.

- Adjusts dispersion curves to account for user specified information on

aerodynamic roughness.

- Adjusts for wind speed variation with height, using user specified
default urban/rural power law coefficients.

- Simulates dispersion from buoyant, non-buoyant point sources, non-

buoyant area, non-buoyant volume sources and non-buoyant line
sources.

- Simulates dry deposition using a simple tilted plume model with user
specified reflection coefficients.

- Simulates building wake effects.

- Can include the effects of exponential decay.

- Uses Briggs’ 1975 plume rise algorithm to calculate plume height.

The ground level concentration at a receptor located downwind of all or a

portion of the source area is given by a double integral in the upwind (x) and
crosswind (y) directions as:
 26

QAK VD y
x= -------- ------- exp [-0.5(-------) 2 dy] dx (2)
2π Us x σy σz y σy

where,

QA = Area source emission rate (mass per unit area per unit time)
K = units scaling coefficient
V = Vertical term.
D = Decay term as a function of x
σy, σz = standard deviation of lateral and vertical concentration distribution
(m)
Us = mean wind speed at release height

C(I) VERTICAL TERM

The vertical term includes the effects of source elevation, receptor elevation,
plume rise, limited mixing in vertical and gravitational settling and dry
deposition of particulates (with diameters greater than about 0.1 micron).

In the present case effects on an ambient air concentrations due to

gravitational settling and dry deposition have been neglected. The vertical
term without deposition effects is given by:

He2 ∞ n-1 (2n Hm - He)2 (2n Hm+ He)2

V = (1 + γ) exp - ------- + ∑ γ exp - ------------------ + exp ----------------- (3)
2σz2 i=1 2σz2 2σz2

where,

H = effective release height of emissions (plume rise + physical stack

height)
Hm = Mixing height
γ = reflection coefficient

The infinite series term in equation accounts for the effects of restrictions on
vertical plume growth at the top of mixing layer. Complete reflection from
earth surface has been assumed (γ = 1). For number of sources more than
one simulation is done for each individual source and then added. In order to
calculate σy and σz for various receptor points for given wind direction
following equations are used.

x = - (X(R) - X(S)) Sin (WD) - (Y(R) - Y(S)) Cos (WD) (4)

y = (X(R) - X(S)) Cos (WD) - (Y(R) - Y(S)) Sin (WD) (5)

where X(R), Y(R) are receptor point coordinates and X(S) and Y(S) are
source coordinates and WD is wind angle from north.
 27

C(II) DISPERSION COEFFICIENTS

Equations that approximately fit the Pasquill-Gifford curves (Turner, 1970) are
used to calculate σy and σz in meters for rural area. The equations used to
calculate σy are of the form

σy = 465.11628 (x) tan (TH) (6)

where,

TH = 0.017453293 [c-d ln (x)] (7)

In the above equations down wind distance `x’ is in kilometers and

coefficients `c’ and `d’ are listed in Table 2. The equation used to calculate σz
is of the form:

σy = axb (8)

where down wind distance x is in kilometers and σz is in meters. The

coefficients `a’ and `b’ are given in Table 3.

C(III) 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 stabilities have been used. The hourly data was available for
the summer season 2007.

C(IV) ATMOSPHERIC STABILITY

Many alternative models are developed by different authors to relate σy and

σz with down wind 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 insulation/cloud cover conditions. Details of this
classification are given Table 4.
 28

C(V) AMBIENT AIR QUALITY AND BACKGROUND CONCENTRATIONS

Ambient air quality standards promulgated by Central Pollution Control Board

(CPCB) for different areas are as follows:
Concentration (μg/m3)
Area SPM RPM SO2 NOx
Industrial and Mixed Use 500 150 120 120
Residential and Rural 200 100 80 80
Sensitive 100 75 30 30

The above standards are for a sampling period of 24 hours. The 98 percentile
SPM concentrations recorded at villages close to mining area during summer
2007 is given below.

SPM RPM SO2 NOx

Code Village
μgm/m3 μg/m3 μg/m3 μg/m3

A-II Jaisingpur 171 93 21 22

A-III Siddapur 163 81 16 21
A-IV Gunda 158 72 15 22

C(VI) PLAN AND FRAME WORK OF COMPUTATIONS

C(VI-i) 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 has been taken as 2000 m.
C(VI-ii) PLAN OF COMPUTATION

The emission rate, dispersion coefficients and other input data being now
available it was planned to compute the following:

- The 24 hourly averaged incremental concentration with hourly data for the
representative month of April 2007.
- The identification of grid point having peak concentration for the
incremental values.

- Preparation of isopleths of different averaging periods and seasons.

 29

C(VII) RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

C(VII-i) PEAK 24 HOURLY INCREMENTAL CONCENTRATIONS

As mentioned earlier peak incremental 24 hourly SPM

concentrations have been computed using hourly meteorological data.
The distances of occurrence of the peak concentrations are at (0,0)m.
The isopleths of various concentrations have also been drawn and these
are given in Figures 1. The coordinates of occurrence of the peak
concentrations are (0,0) and the maximum predicted concentration is 2.6
μg/m3. It may be mentioned that these peak concentrations will occur
within the core zone of mining area. Since peak concentrations were
occurring within the core zone of mines it was considered prudent to
predict and compute concentrations at habitations where ambient air
quality has been measured during the EIA study. The incremental and
post project predicted concentrations at these habitations have been
presented in the following section
C(VIII) PREDICTED AMBIENT AIR QUALITY
With a wide fluctuation in meteorological parameters it is a
complex task to predict post project ambient air quality. With available
ambient air quality data and incremental concentrations computed
through mathematical modelling the following post project ambient air
quality has been predicted

Background Predicted Incremental Post Project

Code Village SPM SPM Concentration Concentration SPM
3 (μg/m3) (μg/m3)
μgm/m
A-II Jaisingpur 171 0.4 171.4
A-III Siddapur 163 NIL 163
A-IV Gunda 158 NIL 158

It is clear from the predicted values that the concentrations SPM are below the
limits of NAAQS (for Rural and Residential Area).
 30

TABLE 1

EMISSION RATE AND EMISSION CONDITIONS

Dust Emission Rate

(i) Uncontrolled = 0.29 gm/s

Emission Temperature = 40.50C Ambient

Mining Dimensions:

Length = 542 m

Width = 76 m

Depth = 58 m

TABLE 2 :

COEFFICIENTS USED TO CALCULATE LATERAL VIRTUAL DISTANCES

σy0 l/q
σy = ------
P

Pasquill Stability Category P q

A 209.14 0.890

B 154.46 0.902

C 103.26 0.917

D 68.26 0.919

E 51.06 0.921

F 39.92 0.919
 31

TABLE 3

PARAMETERS USED TO CALCULATE PASQUILL-GIFFORD VERTICAL

DISPERSION COEFFICIENT (σz)

σz (metres) = axb (x in km)

Pasquill Stability x (km) a b

Category

A* <.10 122.800 0.94470

0.10 - 0.15 158.080 1.05420

0.16 - 0.20 170.220 1.09320

0.21 - 0.25 179.520 1.12620

0.26 - 0.30 217.410 1.26440

0.31 - 0.40 258.890 1.40940

0.41 - 0.50 346.750 1.72830

0.51 - 3.11 453.850 2.11660

>3.11 ** **

B* <.20 90.673 0.93198

0.21 - 0.40 98.483 0.98332

>0.40 109.300 1.09710

C* All 61.141 0.91465

D <.30 34.459 0.86974

0.31 - 1.00 32.093 0.81066

1.01 - 3.00 32.093 0.64403

3.01 - 10.00 33.504 0.60486

10.01 - 30.00 36.650 0.56589

>30.00 44.053 0.51179

TABLE 3 (CONTD.)
 32

σz (meters) = axb (x in km)

Pasquill Stability x (km) a b

Category

E <.10 24.260 0.83660

0.10 - 0.30 23.331 0.81956

0.31 - 1.00 21.628 0.75660

1.01 - 2.00 21.628 0.63077

2.01 - 4.00 22.534 0.57154

4.01 - 10.00 24.703 0.50527

10.01 - 20.00 26.970 0.46713

20.01 - 40.00 35.420 0.37615

>40.00 47.618 0.29592

F <.20 15.209 0.81558

0.21 - 0.70 14.457 0.78407

0.71 - 1.00 13.953 1.68465

1.01 - 2.00 13.953 0.63227

2.01 - 3.00 14.823 0.54503

3.01 - 7.00 16.187 0.46490

7.01 - 15.00 17.836 0.41507

15.01 - 30.00 22.651 0.32681

30.01 - 60.00 27.074 0.27496

>60.00 34.219 0.21716

* If the calculated value of σz exceed 5000 m, σz is set to 5000 m.

** σz is equal to 5000 m.
 33

TABLE 4

PASQUILL - GIFFORD STABILITY CLASSIFICATION

Surface wind Day time insolation

speed (m/s) Night time conditions

Strong Moderate Slight Thin low Overcast

clouds <4/8 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

5 Brief description of model, input requirement and how they are derived with
references if any

6 Output of model,24 hourly concentrations at all monitoring stations, Isopleth

distribution of major pollutants of concern over 10km radius study area
 34

Representation of SPM, RSPM, SO2 and NOx in a tabular form given below

7 Mitigation measures to lower the emission of pollutants

8 Primary/secondary data with respect to impact of fugitive emissions of flora and

fauna.
9 Scientific mining methods to reduce the dust emission from point and line sources
10 Alternate solutions such as conveyor belt to road transport of ore.
 35

4.2 ENVIRONMENT OF NOISE:

The project proponent shall assess the adverse impact and indicate the
proposed mitigating steps to abate the likely adverse impact relating to the
following.
The sources of noise in mining area are due to running of compressor,
wheel loaders and tippers for overburden and ROM handling.
In general, noise generated by these sources is well within the limits of
ILO Code of Practice. The work persons will not be exposed to more than 115
dB(A). But the higher noise levels are encountered for a shorter period and
hence the Leq (8 hours) limit for this mine shall be below the permissible level.
In the EMP, it is proposed to employ noise protection measures for
machinery and workers and development of green belt will keep the noise levels
well within the limits.
4.2.1 Impact of vibrations on the surrounding environment including damage to
materials /structures.
¾ Controlled Blasting shall be conducted using ms delay detonators with
proper stemming.
4.2.3 Prediction of noise levels through modeling at different monitoring stations
¾ The predicted increase of noise level is marginal considering the terrain
and use of small equipment.
4.2.4 Impact due to noise levels generated by existing and proposed activities in
relation to human environment and wild life
¾ Only few operators shall be exposed for higher noise levels due to
proximity of working closer to the machines who will be provided with noise
protecting ear muffs.
4.2.5 Impacts due to present and future transportation activity
¾ It shall be marginal as the average material handling is only 70 t/hr.
4.2.6 Impact of noise levels on hearing
¾ Workers provided with ear muffs.
 36

4.2.7 Identification of mitigation measures noise abatement including noise

barriers for point source and line sources as also measures to minimize
vibrations due to blasting.
¾ The mitigation measures include avenue plantation & afforestation on
dumps well maintained m/cs and tippers, m.s. delay detonators etc., for blasting.
4.2.8 Evaluation of adequacy of the proposed pollution control devices to
minimize occupations exposure and suggest modifications, if required
¾ Regular monitoring shall be conducted to know the effectiveness of
mitigative measures and corrective action shall be taken if required.
4.3 WATER ENVIRONMENT :
¾ The project proponent shall assess the adverse impact and indicate the
proposed mitigating steps to abate the likely adverse impact relating to the
following.
4.3.1 Impacts of water withdrawal on surface water / groundwater resources
¾ Parameters, which represent the water environment, are DO, Total Solids
(TS), Turbidity, Oil & grease, toxic metals, pH, colour and nutrients. The water
flowing through the overburden dumps will carry suspended solids, dissolved
metals and nutrients, which will affect the quality of the ground water as well as
surface waters if mitigative measures are not taken up.
Provision of check dams and plantation of trees, grasses, legumes etc.,
on the overburden dumps as envisaged in EMP will arrest soil erosion to a great
extent. This will improve the surface and ground water quality.
4.3.2 Optimum exploitation of surface / ground water to protect aquatic biodiversity
¾ Not applicable
4.3.3 Details of rainwater harvesting to maintain recharge / reuse
¾ Already covered
4.3.4 Impact of mining on hydrogeology and mitigation measures to conserve
the water resource
¾ Given in Chapter 2.0
4.3.5 Delineation of proper planning for withdrawal of surface / groundwater
below the threshold level of replenishment
¾ Not applicable
 37

4.3.6 Impact of mining activity including tailing pond on surface and

groundwater quality
¾ Not applicable
4.3.7 Model study for prediction of groundwater contamination and suggestion
of mitigation measures to minimize the pollution level.

¾ No ground water contamination expected.

4.3.8 Construction of gully check, check dams, water weirs and retaining walls
Creation or conservation of water holes in forest for wildlife

¾ Yes. They shall be provided for wild life.

4.3.9 Scientific mining methods for management of wastewater from mining area
and OB dumps

¾ Checkdams and gully plugs and afforestation will help.

4.3.10 Management of wastewater sources viz industries, workshop, townships

etc and their impact on water resources in buffer zone

¾ Not applicable

4.3.11 Details of mitigating steps to contain adverse impact on water table in case
of mining intersecting groundwater.

¾ Not applicable

4.3.12 Steps to preserve the existing water bodies and water bodies to be created
as a result of mining activities both in the core zone and bufferzone and to
develop such water bodies for pisciculture and recreational facilities.

¾ Engineering construction such as check dams construction in the valley

shall check the silt flowing in to natural nallah. At the end of mining activity
bottom most bench left which helps in recharging water table. Other benches
shall be afforested and reclaimed.
 38

4.4 Land Environment :

THE PROJECT PROPONENT SHALL ASSESS THE ADVERSE
IMPACT AND INDICATE THE PROPOSED MITIGATING STEPS TO ABATE
THE LIKELY ADVERSE IMPACT RELATING TO THE FOLLOWING :

4.4.1 Estimation of anticipated impacts of proposed mining activity on

topography, water drainage pattern, land use pattern with respect to
agriculture, forestry and fisheries.
Given in Chapter-3
4.4.2 Scientific mining methods to mitigate the impacts of mining activity on land
resource

¾ Refer chapter 3 for details

4.4.3 Delineate mining closure plan / exit protocol to rehabilitate the mined out
land to match its surrounding land use including removal, storage and
reuse of top soil from mining area to cover reclaimed area.

¾ Reclamation of worked out area by afforestation methods and

stabilisation of dump by hemata grass and agave sucklings shall be achieved.
Area is devoid of top soil, as BHQ is exposed in the areas. However any top soil
found during mining shall be removed and stacked and the same shall be utilized
for afforestation purposes.

4.4.4 Impacts of leachate water from overburden on surface and groundwater

quality and mitigate measures for stabilization of overburden dumps.

¾ Overburden waste does not contain any toxic chemical material and
hence no impact on ground water & surface water bodies due to leachate. No
surface water exist within corezone. Stabilisation of dump by hamata grass and
agave sucklings, construction of arrestor walls and gully plugs at the bottom of
dump to check the flow of silt shall be made. Mine working shall not intersect
ground water at any point of mining.

4.4.5 Study of the problem of landslides, and assessment of soil erosion

potential and their impact.

¾ M.L area is exposed of hard strata of BHQs & laterite, which are highly
resistive and hence land slide occurrence is not foreseen. But bench failure
where phyllitic material involved is another possibility. Strictly implementing the
Metalliferrous Mines Regulation in designing bench & road maintenance shall
prevent the slope failure.
 39

4.4.6 Impact of mining activity on the fertility status of soil in the study area

¾ Proposed Mining activity is at an elevation of 874 m above msl.

Agriculture fields are situated at the general ground level at an elevation of 560 m
above msl, hence no direct impact on fertility of top soil around radius of 5 Kms
study area is observed. Engineering construction of checkdams and retention
wall at bottom of dump to check the silt flow is proposed.

4.4.7 Prediction of groundwater pollution due to seepage of pollutants through

soil column

¾ At any stage mining activity shall not intersect ground water level and
hence pollution of ground water due to seepage shall not expect.

4.4.8 Impact of mining on the top fertile soil cover in mining area

¾ No impact on fertility of top soil as mining area is exposed of BHQ and

no top soil exist.

4.4.9 Plan for restoration/rehabilitation of mined out area to forestry productive

land

¾ Mined out benches shall be afforested and reclaimed, bottom most bench
benches shall be left as water reservoir for storing of rain water which help in
recharging ground water table in a Conceptual plan steps shown for
restoration of mined out area is shown in Figure No.2.5. Besides this the
lessee shall purchase revenue land for compensation for mining lease area. The
compensatory land shall be handed over to Forest Department along with
afforestation charges & NPV amount. No timber yielding trees or medicinal plants
exist within mining lease area, only thorny bushes and scanty vegetation present.

4.4.10 Model study for potential soil erosion from core and buffer zone

¾ No significant soil erosion from core & bufferzone is anticipated as area

is devoid of any top soil. However construction of check dams and retention wall
around the dump bottom to check silt flow in to natural nallah is proposed.

4.4.11 Management plan including technological package of processes for

checking soil erosion and soil loss in core and bufferzone.

¾ Given in Land Environment

4.4.12 Methods for treatment and disposal of domestic solid waste

¾ Not applicable, no labor / worker colony is proposed in the area.

4.4.13 Selection of suitable local plant species for greenbelt development in and
around mine sites, ore processing plant and beneficiation plant and also on
overburden dump sites and mined out areas and for avenue plantation in
workers colony
 40

¾ Yes, local species are selected for green belt development and plantation
of reclamation of worked area & dump slope afforestation. The afforestation work
& selection local species shall be undertaken in consultation with local forest
Department.

4.4.14 Top soil conservation plan and its reutilization depending on its quality
¾ There is no top soil existing within corezone as area is exposed of BHQ
and Iron ore reef, however any top soil found during mining activity shall be
removed and stacked separately and utilized for afforestation purposes.

4.5 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

THE PROJECT PROPONENT SHALL ASSESS THE ADVERSE IMPACT AND
INDICATE THE PROPOSED MITIGATING STEPS TO ABATE THE LIKELY
ADVERSE IMPACT RELATING TO THE FOLLOWING :
4.5.1 Loss of forest resource, economically important plants, medicinal plants
and threat to rare and endangered species due to deforestation

¾ In the applied ML area there are no medicinal plants. The tree density of the
area is only 0.1. The reclamation of land shall be done in a phased manner by
backfilling the worked out pits.

4.5.2 Mitigation measures to compensate the loss of forest cover

¾ Lessee shall purchase revenue land for compensation of mining lease.

Compensatory land shall be handed over to the forest dept. along with
compensatory afforestation charges and NPV charges.

4.5.3 Impact of mining activity on terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity and

suggest mitigation measures.

¾ No major water bodies exist in the close vicinity and hence no impact on aquatic
biodiversity is anticipated, however terrestrial biodiversity may have slight
impact, but development of green belt around pit area and plantation on dump
slope shall bring the original status of area and aesthetic beauty.

4.5.4 Impact of mining on wild life and suggest mitigation measures in

consultation with /approval of the Forest / Wildlife agencies

¾ The proposed mining activity is very small scale and hence there shall not be
any major impact on wild life species. However lessee shall communicate the
awareness of wild life protection to workers and village people through
pamphlet distribution and celebrating mines environment week, conducting
essay & painting competition among students. Controlling forest fire by digging
cross trenches.
 41

4.5.5 Impact of mining activity on biodiversity, wildlife habitats, migratory

corridors, migratory avi-fauna, rare and endangered species, medicinal
plants and suggest mitigation measures.

¾ There are no migratory corridors, migratory avi-fauna around the ML area. In

ML area no medicinal plants are available.

4.5.6 Assessment of likely damage to flora and fauna due to air emissions, noise
and vibrations, waste water discharges, change in landuse pattern,
anthropogenic impact and delineation of guidelines to minimize adverse
impacts

¾ Management measures for Air quality :

Generation of dust in the working area shall be controlled by suitable
methods such as –
i) Water sprinkling on haulage and mine roads
ii) Development of green belt along the roads and around the
ultimate pit limit in the mine.
iii) The transportation vehicles carrying ROM ore from mine shall be
covered with tarpaulin so as to avoid spillage of fines on the
haulage road and to avoid excessive dust generation..
iv) Ambient air quality monitoring shall be done regularly in all the
three seasons except monsoon season.
v) Drivers are trained and prohibited from over speeding.

The following abatement measures will be taken for Noise control.

i) Planting of trees with thick foliage along roads act as acoustic

barriers and creation of green belt along the periphery of the
mining lease
ii) Proper maintenance of equipment
iii) Regular noise level monitoring
iv) Use of m.s. delay detonators during blasting.

4.5.7 Vibration due to blasting :

The following measures are proposed :

¾ Drilling is proposed to be conducted using jackhammer holes of 32/33

mm dia using m.s. delay detonators. Total quantity of explosives being 76 Kgs,
vibration caused shall be minimum. Also villages are located more than 1.38 Kms
away at an elevation difference of 300 m.
 42

4.5.8 Impact of mining activity on fishery resource and agricultural production.

¾ No agriculture land involved in ML area. No water body exist within

corezone and hence no impact on fishery resources and agricultural production
is anticipated.

4.5.9 Habitat fragmentation and blocking of migratory corridors due to project

activities.

¾ The area does not form a migratory corridor.

4.5.10 Improvement of biodiversity, wildlife and forest cover due to adoption of

scientific mining and other management methods

¾ Given in para 4.1

4.5.11 Stabilization of mining benches and overburdens by development of

vegetation cover over them.

¾ Given in para 4.1

4.5.12 Afforestation of reclaimed mined out areas, composite of grass, shrubs

and trees priority for native hardwood varieties

¾ Given in para 4.1

4.5.13 Development of green belt around mining benches, crushing plant,

beneficiation plant sewage treatment plant

¾ Green belt development is proposed all along the periphery and

afforestation in non mineralized zones. No crushing or Beneficiation plant is
proposed.

4.5.14 Implementation of pollution control measures to minimize the pollutants

that have impact on biotic environment

¾ Given in para 4.2

4.5.15 Development of at least 50 meter wide thick green belt between the nearby
natural water course and the lease boundary to preserve the natural flow of
the water course and prevent it from getting polluted.

¾ Greenbelt development of 10 mtr wide is proposed all along the boundary of ML area
as the lease area is small. Construction of checkdams, Retention wall around the
foot of the dump shall check flow of silt in to nallahas.
 43

4.6 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

THE PROJECT PROPONENT SHALL ASSESS THE ADVERSE IMPACT AND
INDICATE THE PROPOSED MITIGATING STEPS TO ABATE THE LIKELY
ADVERSE IMPACT RELATING TO THE FOLLOWING :
4.6.1 Projection of anticipated changes with respect to parameters in para 3.6
and delineation of guidelines to minimize the adverse impacts

¾ Any major project will have impact on the local culture & habitats due to
influx of people, but Jaisingpur Iron ore mine is being a small scale mining
activity no influx of people involved. Local People are benefited by this project
because of direct & indirect employment in ore transportation and mechanical
workshop, vulcanizing shops etc.,

4.6.2 Socio-economic profile of the population with reference to their sources of

livelihood as may be affected by mining activities and the rehabilitation
package prepared by the project authorities to compensate their loss of
livelihood by compensatory activities which such people can be gainfully
engaged

¾ Within the buffer zone of 5 kms radius around this mining lease, there are
2 villages including 2 hamlets with a total population of 2932. Within lease area
there are no human settlements. Hence there is no evacuation and re-habilitation
The distribution of male and female are 1490 and 1442 respectively.

In and around the buffer zone there are a number of mining leases. The
villagers depend upon dry agriculture of Jowar, sunflower, sorgum, maize and
cereals, additionally, many people depend upon mining and related activities
such as transportation of ores and waste. The main workers are cultivators,
agricultural labourers, household industry and other workers forming 49.25%.
The balance 50.75% form non-workers comprising of children and old people.

4.6.3 While preparing the rehabilitation action plan special emphasis should be
given on the interest of the economically weaker section of the population.
Who will be more affected due to the proximity of their habitation to the
mine site.

¾ Not applicable as no human settlement within lease hold area. The

nearest village is Jaisingpur village which is 1.38 Kms towards NNE direction.

4.6.4 Scholarship in the form of books and statutory, school uniform and tuition
fee for the needy may be provided with special monitory scholarship to
few select meritorious students

¾ Scholarships, books & uniform distribution for students of Jaisingpur and

other nearby villages shall be arranged.
 44

4.6.5 Local people especially the women and women self help group should be
involved in selecting alternative vocation to be made available to the
affected people.

¾ Proponent shall extend financial support to welfare activities like

construction of hospitals, school buildings, health camps, self employment
schemes training of village women in sewing, rope manufacture. The
proponent’s contribution shall be Rs. 5 lakhs/annum towards social welfare
measures.

4.6.6 Home-stead poultry can be encouraged with initial financial support by the
project proponent.

¾ Proponent shall extend help in awareness of various Govt. schemes,

loans for cottage industry & poultry and limited financial help shall be extended
to village people from fund allocation for socio economic measures.

4.6.7 In plantation work, local species especially fruit bearing trees should be
planted by involving local people especially women self help group and if
practicable in private homestead land of poor people to provide a regular
source of income in the long run

¾ For plantation and engineering constructions local people shall be

engaged so that the women get regular income in the form of wages.

4.6.8 Nature of tenure of land holdings specially of persons with small land
holding indicating if such people are land owners or share croppers and
special steps to provide them gainful economic activities.

¾ No private land is used for mining purpose.

4.6.9 In case the mining activity displace the habitation, in addition to the above
rehabilitation action plan, the project authorities should also give a scheme
of resettlement to the oustees.

¾ Not applicable, no rehabilitation action plan is required as no human

displacement involved.

4.6.10 Water bodies can be used for pisciculture through Fishermen Coopertive
Society with economically weaker section of the people as member by
providing initial financial support in the form of membership fee and
minimum share money with tie up with nearest market and managerial
assistance by the project proponent for proper maintenance of records and
to train members for shouldering responsibility on their own in due course.

¾ No major water body exist within close vicinity Hence development of

pisciculture in this area is not viable. But milk co-operative can be implemented
by distributing loans for purchase of cattles through banks and making of
awareness of various scheme for development of economically weaker section
 45

through pamphlet distribution and mouth spread, conducting punchyat meetings

etc.,

4.7 Occupational Health:

THE PROJECT PROPONENT SHALL ASSESS THE ADVERSE IMPACT AND

INDICATE THE PROPOSED MITIGATING STEPS TO ABATE THE LIKELY
ADVERSE IMPACT RELATING TO THE FOLLOWING :

4.7.1 What principal environmental and occupational risks are likely to be

created
¾ The principal environmental risk and occupational risk is likely incidence
of silicosis / Pnumokoniosis, Tuberculosis, hearing loss, inundation of workings,
fire, slope failure.

4.7.2 Rank the risks to public health in order of severity

¾ Respiratory diseases due to inhalation of dust which is suppressed by

sprinkling of water on the haul roads and working places. Silicosis, Respiratory
diseases and hearing loss.

4.7.3 How will risks be assessed?

¾ Risk assessment shall be made by identifying which risks are most

urgently needed reduction and the options for achieving that risk reduction and
which risks need careful on-going management and the nature of the ongoing
attention. The risk assessment exercise should follow an appropriate process.
Risk management plans shall be prepared on the basis of risk assessment and
implemented in the mine.

4.7.4 Measures to communicate these risks before starting mining to people and
steps for prevention & control.

¾ The risks are communicated to the concerned people through vocational

training, publicity and propaganda during Mines Safety Week, Mines
Environmental Week Celebrations, display of posters, competitions, skits during
the above celebrations, instruction note book with all drivers and operators of dos
& don’ts.

4.7.5 How would the health impact assessment undertaken, if needed

¾ Impact of mining on health is assessed by the trained doctors in

occupational health from Sanjeevani hospital run by the Jindal South West Steel
Ltd., at Thornagallu who are nominated for this purpose by DGMS, Bellary under
Mines Rules.

4.7.6 Does project provide for hiring a person with established credentials to be
able to undertake such activities
 46

¾ Yes, the doctors from Sanjivani Hospital are hired for this purpose. They
have the expertise, facilities and qualified for conducting occupational health
studies.

4.7.7 Name specialized agency to undertake an environmental health study, if

needed

¾ Sanjivani Hospital, Thornagallu, Bellary Dist., which has doctors with

specialization in occupational health studies.

4.7.8 Budget for environmental and occupational health activities

¾ An annual budget of Rs.50,00,00/- shall be allocated for this purpose.

4.7.9 Break up of the budget for every activity proposed to be undertaken

¾ BUDGETARY COST FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY

i) Medical Examination ….. Rs. 25,000

ii) Ambulance ..… Rs. 3,50,000
iii) Establishment charges ….. Rs. 25,000
iv) Doctor & Attendant (Part) ….. Rs. 1,00,000
Total ….. Rs.5,00,000

4.7.10 List of hazardous operations / activities that are likely

¾ Drilling & Loading of waste & Ore .

4.7.11 How many workers to be employed in each hazardous job, give numbers?

¾ Four members for loading & drilling and four members for drilling.

4.7.12 How long are they expected to be employed?

¾ They are employed for Eight hours per day

4.7.13 Should a safety committee be constituted

¾ Yes
4.7.14 Who will be the members of the safety committee
¾ The safety committee shall be constituted comprising the following
persons
Mine Foreman - 1
Asst. Mines Manager - 1
Electrical Engineer - 1
Mechanical Engineer - 1
Mining Engineer - 2

4.7.15 What will be the function of the safety committee and who will head it?
 47

¾ The safety committee shall be headed by an Asst. Mines Manager and

have the following functions as per the recommendation of Conference of Safety
in Mines. –
i) To discuss remedial measures against the unsafe conditions and
practices in the mine as pointed out by the workmen’s Inspectors or
otherwise brought to the notice of the committee and make appropriate
recommendations.
ii) To consider, before commencement of any new section of the mine or
commissioning of electrical or mechanical installation or introduction of any
new mining technique, the proposed safety and health measures including
related codes of practice and to make appropriate recommendations.
iii) To discuss the report of enquiry into accident and make appropriate
recommendations.
iv) To formulate and implement appropriate safety campaign based on
analysis of accidents.
v) To meet atleast once in 30 days to consider the matter placed before it
and any other matter that may be raised by the members and make such
recommendations as it may deem fit.
vi) To serve as a forum of communication on safety and occupational health
matters.
4.7.16 Is there a provision for induction training for workers on health and safety?

¾ Training for workers on health and safety shall be incorporated at the

Group Vocational Training Centre, Kariganur near Hospet before induction. This
is the centre approved by the Directorate General of Mines Safety.

4.7.17 How workplace exposures will be assessed and how these will be
communicated and explained to the workers. Work place exposures shall
be assessed by the Pit Safety Committee

4.7.18 Who will conduct training and education in occupational health and safety?

¾ i) Trained doctors from Sanjivani Hospital, Thornagallu.

ii) Group Vocational Training Centre, Kariganur
iii) Mine Manager

4.7.19 Where will health surveillance be undertaken including tests, e.g., X-rays,
pulmonary function tests and tests for hearing and identifying
tuberculosis?

¾ Sanjivani Hospital, Thornagallu.

4.7.20 What occupational illness are anticipated in view of the hazardous

exposures
 48

¾ No occupational illnesses are expected in this mine in view of the steps

proposed for occupational health.

4.7.21 Who will pay for the tests and the treatment of non occupational illness?

¾ Medical claim facilities are given and all employees are covered with
medical insurance.

4.7.22 Who will compensate the workers for health impairment due to injury or
illness?

¾ The proponent shall bear all the costs for health impairment due to injury
or illness to workmen & staff.

4.7.23 The amount of compensation; list the minimum and maximum amount
stipulated

¾ The amount of compensation shall be determined as per Workman’s

Compensation Act.

4.7.24 How will and how long the records of health check ups be maintained and
what will happen to records when the project ends?

¾ A copy of the health report is given to the employee. All the health check
up records of the workman are computerized. A workman’s health status is
checked after one year of super annuation and if found to have contacted any
occupational disease, he shall be compensated. The records are maintained for
a period of 5 years after closure of the mine.

4.7.25 Who will identify occupational disease early to prevent serious damage

¾ Sanjeevini Hospital, Vidyanagar, Thoranagallu

4.7.26 What measures are to be undertaken for following

i. Preventing heat stress
¾ Not applicable
ii. Preventing noise exposure; and
¾ Workmen and staff exposed to higher sound levels (90 dBA) shall be
provided with ear plugs/mufflers of approved type by DGMS to guard
them against any hearing impairment.
iii. Preventing injuries
¾ Proper on job training to workmen.
4.7.27 Providing ergonomic support

¾ The workmen who operate the loaders and excavators are provided with
ergonomically designed seats and the cabins are air conditioned.
 49

4.7.28 Who will undertake administration of personal protective equipment?

¾ The Mine Manager who is nominated for the purpose shall administer
issue and proper usage of the safety equipment provided.

4.2.29 What, if any action is proposed when the project ends, workers become
exposed and have latent disease which may appear in future

¾ On detection of any occupational disease contacted at this mine shall be

compensated after proper medical examination.
 50

Chapter 5

5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN AND POST-PROJECT

MONITORING PROGRAMME

5.1 Description of the administrative and technical set-up for ensuring that
mitigative measures are implemented and their effectiveness monitored
after environmental approval from the Impact Assessment Agency

¾ The mine management will undertake the control measures in

coordination with respective statutory agencies. The management of
environment shall be made an integral part of the major activities of mining.

5.2 Implementation :

The following system shall be followed to see that the scheme is

implemented as per schedule.
ƒ A separate environmental cell shall be made to oversee the engineering
measures such as construction of check dams and retention walls.

ƒ A crew attends afforestation measures on a regular basis for culturing,

manuring and watering.

On an annual basis the quality of air, water, sound and soil will be tested
to know the status vis-a-vis the base line data. This will enable us to take any
corrective measures, if required. The frequency of sampling shall be as
prescribed by the MOEF guidelines issued in this regard.
Continuous monitoring of any impending slope failures shall be
maintained to avoid any loss of life and property.
The monitoring is being done by the supervisory officers of the mine in
coordination with the respective statutory agencies. Any abnormalities shall be
brought to the notice of management to take immediate corrective action.
 51

Following is the proposed environmental organization chart for this mine.

Mines Manager

Mining Engineer Asst. Manager

Plantation Dust
suppression Mason (1)
supervisor (1)
Crew (2)

Helpers (2) Helpers (2)

The environmental data shall be monitored by using an outside agency

having valid laboratory recognition from MOEF / CPCB.

5.2.1 Examine the effectiveness of adopted EMP and scientific mining measures
to enable to take corrective actions;

¾ The data of environmental monitoring shall be used to check the

effectiveness of EMP and any corrective additional steps if required shall be
taken up.

5.2.2 Delineate Technical aspects of environmental monitoring to examine the

effectiveness of adopted EMP and scientific mining measures (including
measurement methodologies, frequency, location, data analysis, reporting
schedules, emergency procedures, detailed budget and procurement
schedules)
¾ The project management shall submit half-yearly compliance reports as
per the stipulated prior environmental clearance terms and conditions in hard and
soft copies to the regulatory authority concerned, on 1st June and 1st December
of each calendar year. The project proponent shall be practicing the
methodologies suggested in the EMP to ensure its effectiveness in mining
operations.
 52

5.2.3 Post project hydro-geological monitoring for the entire mine life, restrictive
monitoring thereafter during reclamation for collection of hydro geological
and hydrological data

¾ Mine workings shall not intersect the ground water table level hence, no
hydrogeological studies conducted. But brief report on Hydrogeological is
covered in Chapter - 3 under water environment. There is no proposal for post
project monitoring as it is not applicable in this mine.

5.2.4 Plantation monitoring programme during post project period for ensuring
survival and growth rate of plantations in reclaimed area

¾ A crew attends afforestation / plantation programme and measures like

culturing, manuring and watering on regular basis to ensure better survival and
the measures shall be continued for additional two years during post project
period.