Chapter 7-8&9 PDF

Chapter 7
MUCK DUMPING PLAN

Draft EMP Report of Pemashelpu HE Project
Chapter
MUCK DUMPING PLAN
7
7.1 INTRODUCTION
The project envisages construction of 25 m high barrage on Yargyap Chhu. Large quantity of
material would be excavated from the barrage, coffer dam, diversion tunnel and power house.
Muck generated from excavation of any project component is required to be disposed in a
planned manner so that it takes a least possible space and is not hazardous to the environment.
An account of the same has been given in the following paragraphs.
7.2 QUANTITY OF MUCK TO BE GENERATED

The total quantity of muck expected to be generated has been estimated to be of the order of
approximately 5.00 lakh cum. Considering swelling factor as 45% for excavated material, the
total muck to be generated is 7.24 lakh cum. The details are given in Table 7.1.
7.3 DUMPING SITES

The identification of muck disposal areas is done in line with the topographic and site specific
conditions. Muck is to be dumped in 3 pre-identified sites (Refer Figure 7.1). The quantity of
muck to be accommodated at each site is given in Table 7.2. The layout of the dumping sites
and and the cross sections taken at these sites are shown in Figures 7.2 – 7.4.
7.3.1 Criteria for Selection of Dumping Sites

Based on the geological nature of the rocks and engineering properties of the soil, a part of the
muck can be used as construction material. However, the balance requires being suitably
disposed. In the proposed project, about 2.87 lakh cum is to be reused as backfilling material,
soling, aggregate / protection works and about 0.475 lakh cum is to be used as leveling of
material storage area, workshop & stores, office, Temporary colony and contractor colony etc.
About 3.92 lakh cum is to be disposed at muck disposal sites, with a total area of 9 ha.
The following points were considered and followed as guidelines for finalization of the areas to be
used as dumping sites:
i) The dumping sites have been selected as close as possible to the project area to avoid
long distance transport of muck.
ii) The sites are free from active landslides or creep and care has been taken that the sites
do not have a possibility of toe erosion and slope instability.
iii) The dumping sites are either at higher level than the flood level or are away from the
river course so that the possibility of muck falling into the river is avoided.
iv) There is no active channel or stream flowing through the dumping sites.
v) The sites are far away from human settlement areas.
Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.1

Consultant: RS Envirolink Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
The selection of muck disposal sites was done based upon site inspections and available best
conditions of the land availability, land stability, accessibility from the portals, sloping pattern,
Table 7.1: Quantity of muck to be generated and muck to be disposed

Vol. to be used
Quantity of Muck/ for soling, Net Quantity
Muck
S. Debris Generated aggregate works to be
Description Generated
No. (Swelling factor and as dumped
(m3)
45%) (m3) Backfill/coffer (m3)
dam (m3)
1 Diversion Tunnel
Open Excavation 6137 8899
Underground 46721 -
25774 37372
Excavation
2 Coffer Dam

Underground 5456 -
- -
Excavation
3 Barrage & Intake

Underground 78226 145277
12080 17516
Excavation
4 Head Race Tunnel
Open Excavation - -
88590 128456
Excavation
5 Pressure shaft
Underground
20410 29595 10358 19236
Excavation
Surge Shaft
6500 9425
Excavation
9 Adit-2
11220 16269
Excavation
Power House
10
Complex
27664 40113
Excavation
13 Switchyard
-
Excavation -
Total Excavation 499575 724386 287157 437229
Muck used @ average 1 m for leveling of Material storage
area, workshop & stores, office, Temporary colony and 47500 389729
contractor colony
minimum vegetative and tree cover, away from any ecological sensitive area, river bed conditions
and away from high flood levels of the Yargyap Chhu. After surveys three suitable sites were

identified (Areas 1, 2 & 3) located on the right bank of Yargyap Chhu downstream of barrage
which satisfy above criterion (Table 7.2 & Figures 7.1 - 7.2). The proposed locations are
spread over land area of 9.00 ha. Total capacity of muck disposal areas is more than total
quantity of unused muck to be disposed (see Table 7.3). The unused excavated material would
be piled at an angle of repose around 36° at the proposed dumping sites. This will be done to
provide stability to the slopes and also to provide ample space for planting of trees which would
further help in holding and consolidation of the material stacked at the proposed dumping sites.
The muck that needs disposal would be piled at an angle of repose less than 30° at the proposed
dumping sites. For this, the slopes would be broken up by creating benches across the slope. This
will be done to provide stability to the slopes and also to provide ample space for planting trees,
which would further help in holding and consolidating the material stacked at different sites. The
description regarding the stabilization of the stacked material along the proposed roads has been
discussed in the following paragraphs.
The muck is expected to be comprised of fragmented rock mixed with soil and shall have Ø (angle
of repose) value of 30° and below. The options like dumping muck in stages and allowing it to
consolidate/settle through the monsoon, compacting the dumped muck with Dozer movement,
zoning the dump judiciously to ensure the stability of 30° slope under all superimposed conditions
will be utilised. The cross-sections of proposed muck dumping sites are given at Figures 7.2 –
7.5.
Table 7.2: Details of Muck Dumping Sites

S. No Description Area (ha)
1 Downstream of Barrage site on Right Bank on Right Bank (Area-1) 1.50
2 Downstream of Barrage site on Right Bank on Right Bank (Area-2) 1.50
3 In-between Barrage and Power House site on Right Bank (Area-3) 6.00
Total 9.00
Total Capacity = 4.45 lakh Cum
Table 7.3: Details of Cross-sections of Muck Dumping Sites

Total
Total no of
S. No. Area (Ha) Elevation Range Capacity
cross sections
(lakh Cum)
1 1.50 2230-2260 5
2.19
2 1.50 2230-2260 5
3 6.00 2100-2260 8 2.26
Total 4.45

Figure 7.1: Layout Plan of Pemashelpu HE Project showing Muck Dumping Sites

7.4 METHODOLOGY OF DUMPING
The main objectives of process of muck dumping and restoration of these muck disposal sites
are:
to protect and control soil erosion;
to create greenery in the muck disposal areas;
to improve and develop the sites into recreational sites;
to ensure maximum utilization of muck for the construction purpose;
to develop the muck disposal sites/ dumping yards to blend with the surrounding landscape;
and
to minimise damages due to the spoilage of muck in the project area.
In Pemashelpu HEP a scientific approach and methodology was followed for identification of the
dumping sites. All possible alternate sites were inspected and examined before rejecting or
selecting any site. All the dumping sites are:
i) With minimum possible forest cover.
ii) The populated /settlement areas are far away from the identified dump zones and therefore
will be least impact on human life.
iii) The proposed dumping sites are located at a distance varying from 360m to 470m away from
the HFL at areas 1 & 2 while Area 3 site is located at a distance varying from 185 to 255m.
All the dumping sites are either at higher level than the flood level from the river course to
provide protection from high flood.
iv) The identified muck sites are close to the project area to avoid hazards related to transport of
muck to long distances.
Dumping Process
The generated muck will be carried in dumper trucks covered with heavy duty tarpaulin properly
tied to the vehicle in tune with international practice. All precautionary measures will be followed
during the dumping of muck. All dumpers will be well maintained to avoid any chances of loose
soil from being falling during the transportation. All routes will be periodically wetted with the
help of sprinklers prior to the movement of dump trucks. Dumping would be avoided during the
high speed wind, so that suspended particulate matters (SPM) level could be maintained. Further,
the dumping will be avoided during heavy traffic. After the dumping the surface of dumps will be
sprayed with water with the help of sprinklers and then compacted.
A retaining wall shall be constructed prior to dumping of muck (see Figure 7.6). Loose muck
would be compacted layer-wise. The height of usage/ Gabion Wall is proposed to be 4.5 m on an
average. The muck brought by dumpers will be spread in layers behind the wire crate walls and
then compacted by rollers till the top level is achieved. The retaining/sausage wall shall be laid
with proper berm and the muck dumped behind it in layers and compacted by rollers. The process
shall be repeated up to 50 cm level below the desired height which shall be laid with good soil for
providing grass cover. At a regular vertical interval of 1.5 m and 3.0 m c/c masonry drains (catch
water drains) shall be provided to drain off the rain water. Proper fencing of the entire area will
be done.
The muck disposal area will ultimately be covered with fertile soil and suitable plants will be
planted adopting suitable bio-technological measures. The project authorities would ensure

Figure 7.2: Layout of Muck dumping Areas 1 & 2 and Cross Sections of the site

Figure 7.3: Cross Sections of the Muck dumping Areas 1 & 2

Figure 7.4: Layout of Muck dumping Area 3 and Cross Sections of the same

Figure 7.5: Cross Sections of the Muck dumping Area 3

Figure 7.6: Cross Sections of the proposed retaining wall
that the dumping yards blend with the natural landscape by developing the site with gentle slope,
patches of greenery in and around them. These sites can also be developed later as recreational
parks and tourist spots with sufficient greenery by planting trees.
The Rehabilitation plan of muck dumping sites includes engineering and biological measures. Most
of the total unused excavated muck would be placed at an angle of repose to avoid any slippage
of the muck at the proposed dumping sites. Besides, required quantity would be stacked along
the roads, which would be utilised either in widening of the road or in newly constructed roads. In
the former case slopes would be broken up by creating benches across the slope. This will be
done to provide stability to the slopes and also to provide ample space for planting of trees which
would further help in holding and consolidating the material stacked at different sites. As stated
earlier, efforts will be made to dispose the muck within short distances from sites of its
generation.
The capacity/volume of the muck dumping sites is more than the volume of the muck to be
disposed. All measures would be adopted to ensure that the dumping of muck does not cause
injury or inconvenience to the people or the property around the area. The spillage of muck into
the river at any site would be prevented by making concrete retaining walls to retain the muck
pile. It shall be ensured that dumping is carried out at a minimum distance of 30 m away from
the active river bank. The top surface would be leveled and graded after the capacity of any
dumping site is exhausted. The top surface will be covered with soil and grass seeding will be
ensured to promote vegetation cover.
7.5 REHABILITATION OF SPOIL DUMPS

The project authorities would ensure that the dumping yards blend with the natural landscape to
develop the sites with gentle slopes, bunds, terraces, water ponds, and patches of greenery in

and around them. These sites can also be developed later as recreational parks and tourist spots
with sufficient greenery by planting ornamental plants. The re-vegetation of dumping yards
through ‘Integrated Biotechnological Approach’ would be undertaken. It may be necessary to
inoculate the spoil dumps for development of landscape as the soils would be poor in nutrients.
This can be developed through culture of microorganism or vermiculture practices at the
nurseries developed for this purpose. This task can be undertaken by Horticulture Department,
Government of Arunachal Pradesh.
All the spoiled areas will be developed as per the latest technology of dumping, impact of rain,
time and angle of soil setting. In addition sprinkling of water may also be resorted to, if required
to avoid or minimize dust pollution. Proper drainage system also has to be provided to ensure
unobstructed flow of runoff. Planting with suitable species of trees, shrubs and other biomass will
also be initiated.
The following engineering and biological measures have been proposed for the development of
spoiled areas.
7.5.1 Engineering Measures

For stacking of dumped material retaining wall is proposed to be built before dumping of any
material on to the sites (refer Figure 7.6). In all total length of about 1000 running meters
(rmt) of retaining walls would be required to be built wall (Muck Dumping Areas 1 & 2 - 590 m
and length of Muck Dumping Area 3 Area – 950 m). In addition, leveling would also be done after
dumping the material on every cycle and simultaneously improving the drainage of the disposal
site.
All the approach roads to various project structures will be constructed by employing the
methodology recommended by Border Roads with minimal environmental damage. The
methodology consists in developing the formation width is half cutting and half filling, so that the
materials obtained from cutting are utilised in filling. The excavation on hill side will be done to
get a stable slope for the materials encountered. At places breast wall, gabion walls shall be done
in natural slope to retain filled material, particularly where there is problem of retaining the hill
slope.
In case of steep gorge, retaining wall and gabion structure shall be constructed to retain filled
material. To minimise the environmental damage, construction material like stones, sand, etc.,
required for the construction of road will be obtained mostly from the excavated material. In the
streams, box culverts will be provided to prevent the erosion of nala bed. In addition,
stone/concrete work on the downstream area will also be provided at vulnerable places to
minimize erosion.
i) Retaining Walls
Total area for the dumping of muck is 9.0 ha which can accommodate more than 4.45 lakh cum
whereas the estimated muck to be disposed is less than that i.e. 3.89 lakh cum. The total length
of retaining wall proposed to be constructed along the river would be about 1000 rmt. The
height of these retaining walls including MSE wall panels will be approximately 4.5 m. Total
financial outlay for the retaining walls is Rs.328.37 lakhs and details are given in Table 7.3.

ii) Compaction & Levelling
Compaction is an engineering measure, which would reduce bulk density of the muck thereby
optimising the use of muck disposal area and would make it suitable for the plantation and other
biological measures. Top surface would be levelled and graded to make the alternative use. The
muck will be spread in 50 cm thick layers. Top surface would be levelled and graded to make the
alternative use. On top a layer of soil would be spread to make the land suitable for plantation.
The total cost for the process of compaction is Rs.20.00 lakhs.
iii) Fencing
Fencing is a bio-engineering measure. After rehabilitation of muck the dumping areas need
protection for some time from disturbing by human and domestic animals. For this reason fencing
over the muck deposits is required. Barbed wire strands with two diagonal strands, clamped to
wooden/ concrete posts placed at 3 m distance are proposed around the dumping piles. Project
authorities will establish temporary wind barriers around 3 sides of dumps in close of settlement
area.
The disposable muck is proposed to be dumped at 3 pre-identified sites on the right bank of river
(Figures 7.1 - 7.3). The muck is proposed to be filled in layers properly compacted. A PCC base
would be provided for the toe wall. The cost of the same has been given in Table 7.4. In addition
catch water drains are also proposed to be built and levelling of soil would also be done after
dumping the material on every cycle and simultaneously improving the drainage of the disposal
site.
Table 7.4: Cost of engineering measures

S. Qty Rate Amount
Description Unit
No. (Cum) (Rs) (Rs. in lakhs)
I. Construction of Retaining Wall
1. Stone Masonry Toe Protection Wall 11250 cum 1990 223.88
2. PCC Base 2010 cum 4723 94.93
3. Contingencies and Fencing, etc. @ 3% 9.56
of cost of works
II. Construction of check dams along periphery of muck disposal sites 25.00
III. Site Clearance for dumping area and compaction for different 20.00
layers and leveling - Lumpsum
IV. Construction of drainage channels (1000 rmt) 10.00
Grand Total 383.37
7.5.2 Biological Measures

Top surfaces and slopes of all dumping areas would be left with a total area of about 9.0 ha.
These areas will be treated for the purpose of plantation. Vegetation cover controls the
hydrological and mechanical effects on soils and slopes. Therefore, biological measures to
stabilize the loose slope are essential. In order to implement the biological measures in dumping
areas the following activities would be taken into account. The biological measures include the
following:
i) Soil treatment
Muck dumped at various sites is not considered to be nutrient rich as it is excavated from tunnels
and other structures. In order to make it suitable for the plantation it will be provided bio

treatment. The work plan will be formulated for re-vegetation of the dumping sites through
Integrated Biotechnological Approach.
ii) Plantation
The selected species will be planted after their nurseries have been developed. The dumping
areas are very small therefore; separate nursery would not be required. The nurseries developed
for the implementation of CAT plan can be used for the rehabilitation of dumping areas. Nearly 1-
2 years old saplings would be used for the plantation. The plantation can be carried out in lines
across the slopes. Grass and herb species would be used in the inter space of tree species. They
will help in providing the continuous chain of support in retaining debris, reinforcing soil and
increasing the infiltration capacity of the area.
After the process of compaction total area of about 9.0 ha will be available for the plantation.
About 45,000 saplings will be planted at these dumping sites.
In order to stabilise the stacked dumped material, vegetation cover would be provided to hold
dumped material over a period of time. Following steps are envisaged :
Plantation of suitable tree species and soil binding using bio-fertilizer technology.
Turfing of the exposed area and improvement of environment with ornamental species.
Protection with mechanical support.
Social fencing through mass public awareness.
The work plan formulated for re-vegetation of the dumping sites through ‘Integrated
Biotechnological Approach’ is based on following parameters:
i) Evaluation of dumped material for their physical and chemical properties to assess the
nutrient status to support vegetation.
ii) Formulation of appropriate blends of organic waste and soil to enhance the nutrient status of
rhizosphere.
iii) Isolation and screening of specialized strains of mycorrhizal fungi, rhizobium, azotobacter and
phosphate solubilizers (biofertilizers inoculum) suitable for the dumped material.
iv) Mass culture of plant specific biofertilizer and mycorrhizal fungi.
Plantation of dumping sites using identified blend and biofertilizer inoculum.
The afforestation with suitable plant species of high ecological and economic value which can
adapt to local habitat will be undertaken with 400-600 plants per hectare depending upon the
canopy cover required. Major tree species which would be planted are Albizia odoratissima,
Albizia procera, Altingia excelsa, Brassaiopsis aculeata, Bischofia javanica, Castanopsis armata,
Kydia calycina. The shrubs are planted in between the trees are Actinidia callosa, Boehmeria
macrophylla, Cinnamomum glaucescens, Debregeasia longifolia, Eupatorium odoratum, Leea
asiatica. The herbaceous layer is also helpful for the soil binding it reduces soil erosion due to
rain. Herbs and grasses suggested for plantation is Aboriella myriantha, Ageratum conyzoides,
Athyrium angustum, Begonia nepalensis, Bidens bipinnata, Digitaria ciliaris, Fragaria nubicola,
Mikania macarantha, and Pteris cretica. A list of plant suggested for revegetation of spoil dumps
is given below.

S. No. Family Name of species
Trees
1 Aceraceae Acer caudatum
2 Betulaceae Alnus spp.
3 Betulaceae Betula alnoides
4 Callophylaceae Mesua ferrea
5 Elaeocarpaceae Elaeocarpus sphaericus
6 Fagaceae Castanopsis hystrix
7 Fagaceae Quercus spp.
8 Hamamelidaceae Altingia excelsa
9 Hamamelidaceae Exbucklandia populnea
10 Lauraceae Beilschmiedia roxburghiana
11 Magnoliaceae Magnolia hodgsonii
12 Magnoliaceae Michelia champaca
13 Meliaceae Toona ciliata
14 Mimosaceae Albizia lebbeck
15 Pinaceae Pinus wallichiana
16 Rosaceae Prunus domestica
17 Rosaceae Pyrus communis
Shrubs
1 Araliacaee Brassaiopsis aculeata
2 Fabaceae Indigofera spp.
3 Liliaceae Asparagus racemosus
4 Myrsinaceae Ardisia macrocarpa
5 Poaceae Bambusa tulda
6 Rosaceae Rosa spp.
7 Rubiaceae Mussaenda roxburghii
8 Rutaceae Murraya paniculata
9 Rutaceae Zanthoxylum armatum
10 Thymeleaceae Daphne papyracea
Herbs
1 Gentiniaceae Crawfurdia speciosa
2 Hypoxidaceae Molineria capitulata
3 Lamiaceae Ocimum sanctum
4 Musaceae Musa balbisiana
5 Poaceae Coix lacryma-jobi
6 Poaceae Eleusine coracana
7 Ranunculaceae Anemone vitifolia
8 Zingiberaceae Alpinia allughas
9 Zingiberaceae Zingiber officinale
10 Zingiberaceae Hedychium spicatum
Remedial measures would be carried out on an area of 9.0 ha. The estimated cost of these
measures would be Rs.73.88 lakh. This cost includes the cost of turfing of slopes, preparation of
ground, spreading of manure, etc., providing 5 cm of soil cover and transportation and carriage.
It also includes the cost of fencing, irrigation, watch and ward, etc. (see Table 7.5).
Table 7.5: Total financial outlay for the biological measures at dumping sites
S. Rate Amount
Particulars Quantity
No. (in Rs.) (Rs. in lakhs)
1 Rolling of Muck Lump sum 20.00
2 Pitting (size: 0.45 m x 0.45 m x 0.45 m) 45,000 pits 35.00/- pit 15.75
Manure and soil filling in pits 45,000 pits 5.00/- pit 2.25
3 Raising of plants (including nursery cost, manure, 9 ha 112519/- 10.13
transport etc.)
4 Turfing with grasses 45000 sqm 35/- sq m 15.75
5 Fencing, maintenance, watering, transport, etc. Lump sum 10.00
Total 73.88

7.5 MONITORING & COMPLIANCES
Muck shall be dumped from bottom in layers of 50-70 cm depending on size of boulders.
i) Each layer shall be rolled compacted.
ii) A layer of soil shall be spread on top of it to make it suitable for plantation.
iii) Water testing facilities shall be set up for checking quality parameter of water.
iv) Soil samples shall be regularly collected and tested for checking the level of contamination.
v) Prescribed norms and approvals will be sought from APSPCB wherever necessary.
vi) All norms of Forest department, APSPCB and MoEF and their acts related to muck disposal
shall be complied with.
vii) Design consultant shall be engaged for designing of retaining structures.
viii) Plantation shall be done on the reclaimed land and native variety of plants and trees shall be
planted.
7.6 FINANCIAL REQUIREMENT

The estimated cost of the relocation and rehabilitation of excavated material is given in Table
7.6. The total cost of these measures will be Rs.457.25 lakhs.
Table 7.6: Financial requirements for implementation of Muck Disposal Plan

Amount
S. No. Item
(Rs.in lakhs )
1. Engineering measures 383.37
2. Biological measures 73.88
Total 457.25

Chapter 8
LANDSCAPING, RESTORATION &

GREEN BELT DEVELOPMENT
Chapter LANDSCAPING, RESTORATION &

8 GREEN BELT DEVELOPMENT
8.1 INTRODUCTION
Development of Pemashelpu HEP consist of activities like quarrying, muck dumping, construction
of colony areas and various project components along with infrastructure for workshops,
telecommunication, offices, transit camp, etc. These developmental activities are likely to
deteriorate the overall landscape in the construction areas. Therefore, landscaping and
restoration plan is proposed towards overall improvement in the environmental conditions of the
naturally or artificially disturbed sites in the project area apart from suggesting suitable
modifications in the overall landscape of the area to make it more beauty and attractive. The
proposed plan comprises details on field investigations, identification of locations for landscaping,
choice of plant species and infrastructure requirement. Thus, the objectives are aimed to improve
aesthetics of the project area; develop the area as a tourist spot and increase vegetation cover.
8.2 AREAS REQUIRING LANDSCAPING & RESTORATION PLAN

Quarrying for construction material would spread over an area of 5.76 ha which would require
landscaping and restoration including area for construction facilities and contractors camp,
permanent colony and offices, working areas, and crusher plants, etc. (refer Table 8.1). It is
important that after the project related activities are over, the existing landscape, which is likely
to be modified or changed, must be restored to bring back their nearly similar pre-construction
conditions or in an improved attractive state.
The quarry has not been identified exclusively for this project as most of the material shall be
obtained from the excavation done during the project construction itself. Only a small part of
special aggregates will be obtained from Quarry. This particular quarry has been planned about 7
km downstream of powerhouse where from 306578 cum of material would be available to be
used as construction material (see Figure 8.1). It would spread over and area of 10000 sq m
(10.00 ha) and same is being made a part of downstream project being developed by the same
developer.
Table 8.1: Component wise area needing landscaping and restoration works
Total Area
S. No. Component
(ha)
1 Cement & Steel store Area 0.43
2 Magazine Area 0.03
3 Permanent Colony & Office Area 1.50
4 E & M Store Area 0.50
5 B&M Plant-II Area 0.40
6 Cement & Steel store Area 0.40
7 Temporary Colony Area 0.75
8 Workshop & Ware House Area 0.50
9 Crusher Plant Area 0.50
10 Contractors Camp Area 0.75
Total 5.76
New roads have been proposed as approach roads to different project working areas and total
land requirement has been estimated as 4.22 ha (Table 8.2).

Table 8.2: Area required for proposed roads
Total Area
S. No. Location
(ha)
1 Road to Barrage Area 1.19
2 Road to Power House 0.3
3 Road to Adit- Area 0.55
4 Road to Surge Shaft area 2.18
Total 4.22
8.2.1 Construction Sites

Major part out of a total land acquired for the project comes under construction area. This
includes barrage site, power house area, tunnel, residential and project roads, etc. During the
construction activities various slopes may get disturbed, which need to be stabilized using
bioengineering measures like benching and terracing. After stabilizing the slopes, grass planting
should be done to improve greenery of the area and adding attraction to the overall landscape of
the area. Suitable drainage should be provided to drain water without causing erosion in these
areas and to maintain natural beauty. Restoration of barrage area and reservoir area would offer
tremendous potential for attraction for the tourists.
8.2.2 Contractor camps, colony areas and office complex

Infrastructure facilities for the project consist of development of colonies, contractor camps and
offices at the project sites. Some of the infrastructure may be temporary and requires restoration
after project completion; whereas permanent infrastructures need to be well planned and various
measures need to be adopted while construction.
Engineering and biological measures are suggested for the stabilization and beautification of the
disturbed areas for construction activities. Following measures should be adopted for restoration
and landscaping of colony areas and construction sites.
1. Proper roads and lanes would be provided inside the colony area. Open area should be
covered with vegetation. Ornamental plants and avenue trees would be planted along the
roads and lanes.
2. Retaining walls would be built to avoid landslides and slips. Proper drainage would be
provided inside colony for the outlet of the domestic/rain water.
3. Park and playground would be developed.
4. After the completion of all the construction activity, the construction sites and other
temporary settlements would be covered with the top soil from the quarry site which
would support the growth of plant species. The plant species which grow fast are
considered ecological pioneers and would initiate the process of succession and
colonization.
Based on the field surveys following additional measures have been considered for restoration
and landscaping:
The working area of barrage site, power house complex and colony area of the project has been
selected for beautification after construction is over. There would be sufficient open space in
power house complex and colony area.
• Forested area in the power house complex would provide aesthetic view and add to natural
beauty.

• The beautification in the colony area would be carried out by development of flowering beds
by plantation of ornamental plant, creepers, flower garden and a small park, construction of
benches for sitting, resting sheds, walk ways, etc.
8.2.3 Quarry Area

Opening of rock quarry will cause visual impact because of removal of a significant part of the hill
face. Other impacts that are likely to be generated are: the noise generated during aggregate
acquisition through explosive and crushing (which could affect wildlife in the area), dust produced
during the crushing operation to get the aggregates to the appropriate size and transport of the
aggregates, and transport of materials to the nearby rivers. The quarrying for rock material in the
proposed project would lead to removal of vegetation cover, top soil and leave the area barren.
After the completion of mining activity, these areas will be restored to their normal habitat
conditions. The location of quarry sites and their area is given at Table 8.1.
Similarly excavation and transportation of aggregates will cause visual impact because of removal
a significant part of the river bed.
8.2.4 Road Construction

The blasting and cutting hill slopes for construction of approach roads shall impact the landscape
of the area and deposition of rubble on the down slopes shall impact the vegetation and its flow
into the river channel.
8.3 LANDSCAPING & RESTORATION PLAN
8.3.1 Biological & Engineering Measures

Standard mitigation measures against erosion and sedimentation, noise and air pollution will be
taken, in particular for the use of explosives. At the end of the exploitation, quarries will be
rehabilitated. This will include re-establishment of vegetation, restoration of natural watercourses,
avoidance of flooding of the excavated areas, achievement of stable slopes, and avoidance of
features, which would otherwise constitute a risk to health and safety or a source of
environmental pollution. The general plan to minimize the degradation of area due to mining for
construction material would be as follows:
Building of garland drains around quarry site to capture the runoff and divert the same to
the nearest natural drain.
Construction of concrete guards to check the soil erosion of the area.
The pit formed after excavation be filled with small rocks, sand and farmyard manure.
Grass slabs to be placed to stabilized and to check the surface runoff of water and loose soil.
However the details of measures proposed to be adopted for landscaping of the quarry site have
been described below:
i) Measures to be adopted before quarrying

The top 6-12” of soil will be removed before starting the quarrying activity or any other surface
disturbance. This top soil will be kept separate and stock piled so that it can be reused after
quarrying is over for rehabilitation of sites. This soil contains all microbes (including

Figure 8.1: Location of Quarry site
earthworms) and important nutrients and organic matters which will be required at the time of
restoration of the quarry sites
ii) Measures to be adopted after quarrying
- Diversion of run off
Effective drainage system will be provided to avoid the infiltration of run-off and surface waters
into the ground of quarry sites.
- Filling of depressions
Removal of rocks from quarry site for different construction works will result in the formation of
depression and/or craters. These will be filled by the dumping materials consisting of boulders,
rock, gravel and soil from nearby plant/working sites.
- Construction of retaining walls
Retaining walls will be constructed at the filled up depressions of quarry site to provide necessary
support particularly where there are moderately steep slopes.
- Rocks for landscaping
After the quarrying activity is over, the site will be splattered with the leftovers of rocks and
boulders. These boulders and rocks can support the growth of mosses and lichens, which will act
as ecological pioneers and initiate the process of succession and colonization. The boulders of
moderate size will be used to line the boundary of a path.
- Laying of the top soil
The depressions/craters filled up with rock aggregates will be covered with top soil. The top soil
then will be covered with geo-textiles like coir, jute or by other locally available bio-degradable
material. In addition the fungal spores naturally present in top soil will aid plant growth and
natural plant succession. These activities will protect the top soil from erosion. The top soil will be

further enriched by organic manure and Vesicular-Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi. This will
help in the process of soil reclamation and the early establishment of juvenile seedlings.
- Revegetation
The work plan formulated for revegetation of the quarry site through ‘Integrated Biological and
Biotechnological Approach’ would be based upon the following parameters:
i. Evaluation of rock material for their physical and chemical properties to assess the
nutrient status to support vegetation.
ii. Formulation of appropriate blends of organic waste and soil to enhance the nutrient status
of rhizosphere.
iii. Isolation and screening of specialized strains of mycorrhizal fungi, rhizobium, azotobacter
and phosphate solubilizers (bio-fertilizers inoculums) suitable for the mined out sites.
iv. Mass culture of plant specific biofertilizer and mycorrhizal fungi to be procured from
different institutions/organisations which are engaged in the phyto-remediation activity of
degraded areas.
Plantation at quarry site using identified blend and biofertilizer inoculums.
The cost of landscaping and restoration has been estimated as Rs. 97.65 lakh (Table 8.3).
Table 8.3: Cost estimates for landscaping and restoration of quarry site
Amount
Sl. Rate/unit
Item of Work Quantity (Rs. in
No. in Rs.
lakh)
Engineering Measures
A Pre-construction measures
Removal of top soil including transportation 6.84 ha 8000 0.55
and stock piling
B Post-construction restoration measures
Diversion channels & Retaining walls - Lumpsum 10.00
Filling of the crates with muck, stones, etc. - Lumpsum 15.00
Preparation of mounds - Lumsum 15.00
Bio-Engineering Measures
Carpeting with geo-textiles like coir, jute and 68400 50 34.20
other fibers, etc. sq m
Seeding by grass 6.84 ha 2000 0.14
Total Engineering Measures (A+B) 74.89
Biological Measures
Collection and spraying of seeds 5.76 ha 4500 0.26
Raising of plants 10000 25 2.50
Nos.
Maintenance of successfully colonized Lumpsum 20.00
seedlings for 5 years
Total Biological Measures 22.76
Grand Total (Engineering & Biological 97.65
Measures)
8.3.2 Green Belt Development

Green belt development will comprise of plantations at various places like alongside roads,
around the periphery of reservoir rim, construction areas and at different project offices and
colonies.
8.3.2.1 Roadside/Avenue Plantation

In Pemashelpu H. E. Project area construction of approximately 3.05 km of new roads are

proposed (Refer Table 8.4). It is proposed to carry out roadside plantation along these roads.
The cost of the plantation has been calculated as per the existing labour charges, material cost
(plants, FYM, tree guards, etc.) and the total area of plantation. The spacing for trees is proposed
3 m while 1.5 m for shrubs. The pit size has been recommended as 45 cm x 45 cm x 5 cm for
trees and 30 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm for shrubs. Plantation along roads must take into account
visibility aspects on curves so as to ensure safe driving. The estimated cost of roadside plantation
would be around Rs.9.00 lakhs.
8.3.2.2 Green Belt Development along the Reservoir Rim

The construction barrage would result in formation of reservoir of 2.87 ha. Immediate slopes
above FRL will be prone to slips due to increased moisture and fluctuations in the reservoir level.
It is therefore imperative that slopes above 5m from FRL are provided sufficient cover to prevent
any slippage from the slopes. Therefore a belt of trees alternating with shrubs and bushes will be
created to check downward movement of any slope wash material and accidental fall of any wild
animal into the reservoir. On these slopes indigenous, economically important, soil binding and
water loving tree and shrub species will be planted, which are able to thrive well under high
humidity and flood conditions.
Among the trees Acer caudatum, Altinga excelsa, Castanopsis hystrix, Pinus wallichiana,
Betula alnoides, and Alnus spp. shall be planted immediately above the reservoir
Among the shrubs species like Brassaiopsis aculeata, Camellia sp., Indigofera spp.,
Mahonia napaulensis and Zanthoxylum acanthopodium shall be planted.
Among the herbs the species like Artemisia indica, Begonia megaptera, Bergenia ciliata,
and Chrysopogon gryllus shall be planted.
The plantations will be carried out in consultation with state forest department as well as
horticulture department on an area of about 5.0 ha. Total cost of these plantations including
maintenance will be around Rs.5.63 lakhs. Proposed Green belt around reservoir and Road to
Barrage is shown in Fig 8.2
8.3.2.3 Green belt at Barrage Site and Power house site

Plantation at the barrage site and power house has been proposed for control of erosion/ siltation
of the reservoir and aesthetic importance. The plants of recreational value, horticultural
importance shall be planted within the complex. Developing a lawn and flower garden surrounded
by this green belt may serve the purpose of beautification of the barrage site.
8.3.2.4 Green belt around crusher plants

For mitigating the impact of dust and noise, which will rise from the crusher plant, plantation
must be done around the crusher plant area.
8.3.2.5 Green Belt around Colony area and Office Complex

Plantation around the project colony and office complexes is proposed to be done, so that,
greenery is developed. Precaution should be exercised by not planting large size trees around
buildings to avoid accidents. Besides this, it is also proposed to develop green belt around the
working areas for trapping the dust and noise. Plantation of avenue, ornamental and fruit trees
are proposed in these areas along with the area around office complex. The ornamental, fruit
plants will be procured from the horticulture department and local market while the avenue plants

will be procured from forest department nursery. For protection of trees from cattle iron tree
guards shall be required.
Total cost of development of green belt around project construction areas and colonies would be
Rs.2.50 lakhs. Proposed Green belt around Road to Surge shaft, Power House etc are shown in
Fig 8.3
8.3.3 Choice of Species

The plantations have been suggested for restoration and reclamation of quarry areas, working
sites, and also plantations in and around the residential colonies, green belt local native species
of trees, shrubs and herbs have been suggested and list of these species is given at Table 8.4.
Table 8.4: Plant species suggested for landscaping and restoration works and other
plantations
For Residential Colonies & Office Complex
Trees
1 Aceraceae Acer caudatum
2 Betulaceae Alnus spp.
3 Betulaceae Betula alnoides
8 Hamamelidaceae Altingia excelsa
10 Lauraceae Beilschmiedia roxburghiana
11 Magnoliaceae Magnolia hodgsonii
15 Pinaceae Pinus wallichiana
Shrubs
4 Myrsinaceae Ardisia macrocarpa
7 Rubiaceae Mussaenda roxburghii
9 Rutaceae Zanthoxylum armatum
10 Thymeleaceae Daphne papyracea
Herbs
1 Gentiniaceae Crawfurdia speciosa
2 Hypoxidaceae Molineria capitulata
3 Lamiaceae Ocimum sanctum
4 Musaceae Musa balbisiana
5 Poaceae Coix lacryma-jobi
6 Poaceae Eleusine coracana
7 Ranunculaceae Anemone vitifolia
8 Zingiberaceae Alpinia allughas
9 Zingiberaceae Zingiber officinale
10 Zingiberaceae Hedychium spicatum

For Avenue Plantation

Trees
1 Anacardiaceae Lannea coromandelica
2 Betulaceae Alnus nepalensis
8 Juglandaceae Juglans regia
Shrubs
1
3 Cyatheaceae Alsophila spinulosa
5 Hydrangeaceae Hydrangea robusta
Table 8.5: Cost estimates for Green Belt Development
S. Green Belt Development Cost

No. (Rs. in lakhs)
1 Roadside plantation (4.22 km) 9.00
2 Green belt around Barrage, colonies, and
powerhouse areas 2.50
3 Green Belt around Reservoir Rim (5 Ha) 5.63
Total 17.13
8.4 PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

The landscaping and restoration plan will be implemented with help of landscaping experts and in
consultation with Arunachal Pradesh State Horticulture Department as well as Along Forest
Division and the coordination and funding will be provided by the project proponent for successful
implementation of this plan.
8.5 COST ESTIMATES

Total cost for the restoration works, landscaping of quarry areas, road side plantations, and
creation of green belt around reservoir and colonies and working sites would be Rs.114.78
lakhs. A summary of the same are given at Table 8.5.
Table 8.6: Summary of Cost estimates
S. Amount
Item
No. (Rs. in lakhs)
1 Restoration of construction areas, colonies, etc. 97.65
2 Green belt creation around reservoir rim and 17.13
colonies, roads, etc.
Total 114.78

Figure 8.2: Proposed Green belt around reservoir and Road to Barrage

Figure 8.3: Proposed Green belt around Road to Surge shaft, Power House etc

Chapter 9
AIR & WATER ENVIRONMNET

MANAGEMENT PLAN
Chapter AIR & WATER ENVIRONMENT

9 MANAGEMENT PLAN
9.1 IMPACTS ON PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
Hydroelectric projects are generally considered cleaner source of energy as the pollution
generation potential in terms of air, water and hazardous waste generations considerably lower
during the project operation phase. However, the construction phases of such project, in
ecologically rich areas, pose serious threats to surrounding environment. Therefore, it is
important to identify and quantify such impacts and formulate mitigation measures in order to
have minimum damage to project surrounding areas during construction period.
During construction phase, the activities like site preparation, approach roads, excavation,
drilling, blasting, foundation, tunneling, deployment of machinery, erection, transportation,
dumping will be taken up. Tunneling and foundation works will involve land excavation, affecting
environment by noise and dust pollution. Structural work, deployment of machinery, approach
roads construction and erection work will also result in dust, noise pollution and vehicular traffic.
Material handling and transportation would also lead to significant increase in air and noise
pollution. Muck generation, its transportation and disposal may pollute surface water due to the
generation of large quantities of suspended particulate matter. Wastewater from labor camps and
colonies may also pollute water bodies in the area.
The likely impacts on the physical environment during the construction phase are listed. In
addition, another important aspect to be taken care of during the construction phase of the
project is that of “Safety”. Deployment of large number of labour during the 5 years of
construction period in difficult terrains; underground works, use of machinery and equipment, use
of explosives for blasting, etc. may lead to serious accidents, if adequate safety measures are not
adopted.
Table 9.1: Impacts during Construction Phase
Construction &
Activity Potential Environmental Impact
Operational Phase
Cleaning and grading Dust emission
Temporary facilities, such as
Dust emission, water pollution and
sheds, approach roads, sanitary
solid waste generation
facilities
Earth work comprising of Soil erosion, run off, increase in
a) Site work / other excavation and trenches traffic, dust emission
facilities. Foundation work, piling and Dust, visual and noise pollution,
construction of check barrages wastewater generation
Construction of permanent Dust and noise pollution and
structures like roads, colony, etc. wastewater generation
Mechanical erection and utility
Dust, noise and visual impact
systems
b) Construction of Dust, soil erosion, wastewater
Excavation
approach generation and noise
roads tunneling Drilling & Blasting Dust, noise and health hazards
works and Dumping Dust, noise and river pollution
foundations
Transportation Dust, noise and visual
c) Accident In all construction activities Major or minor health impact

9.2 AIR ENVIRONMENT
As observed during various field visits, the air quality is quite pristine in the study area. In the
absence of industries, the only source of air pollution in the area at present is vehicular traffic
(which also is very sparse) and few other anthropogenic activities like burning of fuel wood,
garbage, etc. or occasional use of DG sets in the area. However, quantity of such emissions is
relatively small and sources are scattered, therefore, ambient air quality is generally good in the
entire area.
Construction and operation of the Pemashelpu HEP will definitely impact the air quality of the
area. The construction period will involve exploration activities, construction of barrage, tunnels
and approach roads, operation of batch mixing plants, aggregate processing plants, crushers,
dumpers, cranes and other construction equipment, operation of DG sets for construction power,
quarrying operations, muck generation and disposal, repair and maintenance workshops,
penstock fabrication, transportation of men and material, etc. All these activities will contribute to
air pollution in the area. The nature and extent of impact on air environment will vary from time
to time, location to location and through different stages of development of the project. As all
these activities contribute to fugitive emissions in various forms, quantification of air pollution at
this stage is not possible.
9.2.1 Impacts on Ambient Air Quality

Considerable amount of air pollution will take place during different stages of construction.
Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) is the main pollutant during construction phase, released in
the form of fugitive dust from various operations and activities. Additionally, SO2 and
hydrocarbons will also be released as product of fuel burning during operation of equipment.
The pollutants released during the construction activities may cause immediate effect on the
construction workers who are directly exposed to them. However, the pollutant will not travel to
longer distances as the project site is located in between hills. Disadvantage of such locations is
that pollution generated in the valley do not get dispersed easily, hence even smaller quantities
have serious impacts.
9.2.1.1 Pollution due to Fuel Combustion in Equipment

Major fuel consumption is diesel for DG sets which meet power requirement during construction
phase. As this power requirement will be executed through 2 nos. of DG sets, one installed at
barrage construction sites, and one at powerhouse site. Operation of DG sets and other
construction equipment requires combustion of diesel. The major pollutant which gets emitted as
a result of combustion of diesel is SO2. The SPM emissions are generally not significant; however,
amount depends upon quality of fuel used.
To reduce the impact of air emissions from DG sets, it is important to have adequate stack height
of these DG sets to provide for plume dispersion and reduce the impact on receptors. Minimum
stack height will be worked out based on capacity of DG sets as per the following formula:
H = h+0.2√KVA
Where,
H = Total height of stack in meter
h = Height of the building in meter where the generator set is installed
KVA = Total generator capacity of the set in KVA

These stacks form part of the DG assembly including the acoustic housing to control sound levels,
hence their cost is not included in the EMP cost.
Emissions from Construction Equipment
Following major construction and repair facilities will be set up for the project which may lead to
air pollution in the surrounding areas:
Aggregate Processing Plants: Aggregate processing plant of 250 MT/Hr capacity will be set up
for pre-construction activities at barrage site.
Batching and Mixing Plants: Two Batching plants having the capacity 60m3/hr will be set up
one each at diversion tunnel and barrage construction sites, one each of 30cum/hr at powerhouse
and pressure shaft.
Concrete Pumps: Ten numbers of concrete pumps will be required during the construction
period of the projects. Out of these, 2 concrete pumps will be required for diversion tunnel, 2 for
Surge Shaft, 3 for HRT construction, 2 for pressure shaft and one for Tail Race Channel.
Transit Mixers/Mixers: Three numbers of transit mixers of 4-6 cum will be required for
executing the construction activities.
Diesel Generators (D.G. Sets): D.G. sets - 2 no. of 500 KVA will be required at two
construction sites.
Repair and Maintenance Workshops:
Central workshop for heavy earth moving equipment and transport vehicles shall be set up at the
project site. The area shall be developed including open space and parking area. The workshop
shall comprise of covered/semi-covered repair sheds.
The work shop shall comprise facilities for the engine repairs and overhauling, transmission,
torque converter repair shops, auto-electrical shops, machine shop, tyre repair shop, welding and
fabrication shops, chassis repairs, body and seat repairs, denting/painting, maintenance yard etc.
The workshop shall be securely fenced with control of operations.
A small workshop with machine tools, etc. would be provided to carry out normal repairs of the
equipment in the powerhouse. The workshop would be placed in nearby service bay.
These plants and workshops will generate fugitive emissions comprising mainly the suspended
particulate matter during loading/unloading of material and repair and maintenance activities.
Major impact will be on the immediate vicinity i.e. affecting the workers involved in these
operations. Provision of appropriate dust masks and other required Personal Protective Equipment
at all the locations and enforcing their use by workers will help reducing emission’s impact at
workplace environment.
Depending on wind direction and other meteorological factor these emissions may also disperse in
atmosphere and will affect the surrounding area. The impacts will remain limited to immediate
surrounding and vary with wind direction. Best mitigation method is to keep the emissions under
check so that they do not spread to outside the battery limits of these plants.
Fugitive Emissions from various sources

Construction activities such as tunneling, excavation, road cuttings, etc. are associated with large
amount of dust generation. Additionally, quarrying operations, muck transport and dumping,
transportation and storage of construction material like sand, fine aggregate, etc. generate large

amount of dust. Continuous exposure to fugitive dust has serious health effects on workers and
residents of nearby areas. Impacts are local and temporary, and their significance can be reduced
by adopting various mitigation measures such as controlling emissions at source, water sprinkling
and use of PPEs.
Emission due to Vehicular Traffic

The project construction will involve transportation of large quantities of construction material to
the project site and all the transportation in the project area will be done by road. This would lead
to substantial increase in heavy vehicular traffic in the area. Emissions from vehicular traffic, due
to diesel burning, will lead to air pollution in the area. The impact cannot be eliminated, however,
it can be reduced by enforcing on transporters that the vehicles used should have valid PUC
certificate.
9.2.2 Mitigation Measures for Air Emissions

Following are some of the recommendations on mitigation measures.
i. Use of DG sets to be kept at minimum and only for captive power generation.
ii. Location of DG sets and other emission generating equipment should be decided keeping
in view the predominant wind direction so that emissions do not effect nearby residential
areas.
iii. Stack height of DG sets to be kept in accordance with CPCB norms, which prescribes the
minimum height of stack to be provided with each generator set to be calculated using
the following formula:
iv. H = h+0.2x √KVA
H = Total height of stack in meter
h = Height of the building in meters where the generator set is installed
KVA = Total generator capacity of the set in KVA
v. Proper maintenance for efficient functioning of DG sets and other construction equipment
is essential to minimize exhaust
vi. Construction equipment and vehicles will be turned off when not used for extended
periods of time. Unnecessary idling of construction vehicles to be prohibited.
vii. The entire contractor’s vehicle should have valid PUC certificate and same condition may
be enforced on transporters bringing in material for construction.
viii. Effective traffic management to be undertaken to avoid significant delays in and around
the project area.
ix. Road damage caused by sub-project activities will be promptly attended to with proper
road repair and maintenance work.
x. Wherever practical, excavated spoils to be removed as the contractor proceeds along the
length of the activity.
xi. When necessary, stockpiling of excavated material will be covered or staged offsite
location with muck being delivered as needed during the course of construction.
xii. Excessive soil on paved areas will be sprayed (wet) and/or swept and unpaved areas will
be sprayed and/or mulched. The use of petroleum products or similar products for such
activities will be strictly prohibited.
xiii. Contractors will be required to cover stockpiled soils and trucks hauling soil, sand, and
other loose materials (or require trucks to maintain at least two feet of freeboard).

xiv. Dust sweeping - The construction area and vicinity (access roads, and working areas)
shall be swept with water sweepers on a daily basis or as necessary to ensure there is no
visible dust.
xv. All the construction workers and other staff, who get directly exposed to dust, should
necessarily be provided with dust masks.
The project authorities will work closely with representatives from the community living in the
vicinity of project area to identify areas of concern and to mitigate dust-related impacts
effectively (e.g., through direct meetings, utilization of construction management and inspection
program, and/or through the complaint response program).
9.2.3 Noise Levels

The sound will be generated during almost all the construction activities such as tunneling,
blasting, movement of vehicles, operation of construction machines and equipments, repair and
maintenance work, operation of DG sets, etc. Continuous exposure of workers to high sound
levels may result in annoyance, fatigue, and may cause temporary shift of threshold limit of
hearing and even permanent loss of hearing. As is evident from the baseline data, in the absence
of vehicular traffic, sound levels in the area are generally low. There are no industries or any
other source of noise in the area.
Construction phase will generate noise at various locations in the project area and is likely to
affect residents and construction workers. The simultaneous operation of some equipment may
increase the noise manifolds, however, resultant increase in noise levels will depend upon
location of such equipment with respect to habitation, availability of the silencers/mufflers,
condition of the equipment, losses during transmission, etc. Increase in vehicular traffic in the
area will also contribute to high sound levels in the area. Construction activities such as
tunneling, blasting, etc. also lead to high noise generation.
Sound attenuates with the distance and even if all the attenuation factors are removed, direct
sound levels reduce by 6 dB (A) with every doubling of distance. Further, the sound level reduces
substantially when the wave passes through a barrier. Therefore, if location of construction
equipment is planned keeping in view the safe distance from habitation, impact can be greatly
reduced on large section of population. Workers who are directly exposed need to use Personal
Protective Equipment (PPEs) to reduce the impact.
9.2.4 Mitigation Measures for Noise Impact

Impacts due to high noise levels can be greatly reduced by adopting mitigation measures, as
discussed below:
Location of the construction equipment to be decided keeping in view the safe distance
from habitation.
Contractors will be required to maintain properly functioning equipment and comply with
occupational safety and health standards.
All the construction equipment will be required to use available noise suppression devices
and properly maintained mufflers.
Staging of construction equipment and unnecessary idling of equipment within noise
sensitive areas to be avoided whenever possible.

Minimize the use of noise producing equipment during night hours to avoid the
disturbance to locals and wild animals of surrounding area.
Use of temporary sound fences or barriers to be evaluated.
Notification will be given to residents within 300 feet of major noise generating activities.
The notification will describe the noise abatement measures that will be implemented.
Monitoring of noise levels will be conducted during construction phase of the project. In
case of exceeding of pre-determined acceptable noise levels by the machinery will require
the contractor(s) to stop work and remedy the situation prior to continuing construction.
Vehicles to be equipped with mufflers recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
The following Noise Standards for DG sets (15-500 KVA) are recommended for the running of DG
sets during the construction.
The total sound power level, Lw, of a DG set should be less than, 94+10 log 10 (KVA), dB
(A).
Noise from the DG set should be controlled by providing an acoustic enclosure or by
treating the enclosure acoustically.
The Acoustic Enclosure should be made of CRCA sheets of appropriate thickness and
structural/ sheet metal base. The walls of the enclosure should be insulated with fire
retardant foam so as to comply with the 75 dBA at 1m sound levels specified by CPCB,
Ministry of Environment & Forests.
The acoustic enclosure/acoustic treatment of the room should be designed for minimum
25 dB (A) Insertion Loss or for meeting the ambient noise standards, whichever is on the
higher side.
The DG set should also be provided with proper exhaust muffler with insertion loss of
minimum 25 dB (A).
Proper efforts to be made to bring down the noise levels due to the DG set, outside its
premises, within the ambient noise requirements by proper siting and control measures.
A proper routine and preventive maintenance procedure for the DG set should be set and
followed in consultation with the DG set manufacturer which would help prevent noise
levels of the DG set from deteriorating with use.
9.3 WATER ENVIRONMENT

Construction work require large quantities of water to be used in various processing plants for
material preparation; curing purposes, cooling water in equipments, domestic usages in colonies,
etc. wastewater will be generated in various forms processing plants, workshops and residential
areas. Additionally, during the construction work, muck transportation and transportation of
materials; large quantities of suspended particulate matter will be generated to end up in the
water body. As the construction period is long such impacts can permanently deteriorate the
water quality in the area, if adequate mitigation measures are not adopted.
The following mitigation measures are suggested to be followed during the construction of the
project:
Segregation of different types of wastes at source and avoid their mixing up in the water
of streams.
Accumulation of oil wastes in depressions should be minimized in order to avoid possible
contamination of the ground water system.

Surface runoff from oil handling areas/devices (workshops and DG operation areas) should
be treated for oil separation before discharge into the environment. If oil wastes are
combined with sanitary sewage, oil separation will be necessary at the wastewater
treatment facility.
All effluents containing acid/alkali/organic/toxic wastes should be processed by treatment
methods. The treatment methods may include biological or chemical processes.
The impact due to suspended solids may be minimized by controlling discharge of wastes
that contain suspended solids; this includes sanitary sewage and other wastes. Also, all
activity that increases erosion or contributes nutrients to water (thus stimulating algal
growth) should be minimized.
For wastes containing high TDS treatment methods include removal of liquid and disposal
of residue by controlled land filling to avoid any possible leaching of the fills. All surface
runoffs around quarries and excavation areas should be properly channelized and taken
care of.
9.4 ACCIDENTAL RISKS

In the hydro-electric projects, the environmental risk assessment is an important aspect. Larger
environmental risks such as floods, landslides, etc. have been adequately covered along with
their management plan at relevant sections of Environmental Management Plan. Some of the
aspects posing accidental risk during construction phase, where work force and surrounding
population may get affected, have been addressed below.
9.4.1 Safety in Explosive Handling

Explosives will be required to be stored at site during construction period. It is expected to have
two magazines each with a capacity to store 20tonne of explosives. Magazine structure means a
building specially constructed in accordance with a design approved by the Chief Controller and
intended for storage of more than 5 kg of explosives. Distances between two magazines or
between a magazine and other buildings, road, railway, etc. is governed by the Safety Distances
given at Schedule VIII of the Explosives Rules, 1983 and are based on the category and quantity
of explosive material stored. For magazine to store 20MT of explosive material, following safe
distances are applicable:
To and between magazine or

Quantity To and between process bldgs
magazine office etc.
in Kg
X Y ZZ X Y ZZ
M/UM M/UM M/UM M/UM M/UM M/UM
20000 26 32 65 26 87 226
To Dwelling Houses, Offices,

Quantity To railway, Road, etc.
factories, etc.
in Kg
X Y ZZ X Y ZZ
M/UM M/UM M/UM M/UM M/UM M/UM
20000 28 86 303 58 174 605
NB: M denotes Mounded; UM denotes Unmounted; Distances are in m
Explosives are divided into four categories according to the risks which they present when
initiated, namely –

Category X – Those explosives, which have a fire or a slight explosion risk or both but the effect
of which will be local.
Category Y – Those explosives, which have a mass fire risk or a moderate explosion risk, but not
the risk of mass explosion.
Category Z – Those explosives, which have a mass explosion risk and major missile, effect.
Category ZZ – Those explosives, which have a mass explosion risk and minor missile effect.
Pemashelpu HE Project falls under category X
If any question arises as to whether any explosive belongs to Category X, Category Y, Category Z
or Category ZZ, the matter shall be referred to the Chief Controller whose decision shall be final.
In addition to taking license and maintaining safety distances as above, all the precaution
required as the Explosive Rules need to be strictly adhered to during transportation, storage and
handling of explosives.
9.4.2 Safety during Construction

With large scale increase in construction activity of river valley projects, the number of major
accidents during construction stage has increased. Further, increased construction activity has
also created construction related hazards for persons working on the projects. The degree of
safety achieved in project constructions has a direct bearing on the amount of effort expanded to
avoid accidents by those who control the conditions and practices on the project. In order to
avoid accidents it should be the overall responsibility of the project authorities to provide
measures for the safety of all persons working on the projects.
The standards laid down for the safety aspects should be taken during construction work.
Construction activities at the site of a hydro-electric project need to take care of safety aspect for
all the activities in general and for following critical activities in particular:
Storage, handling, transportation and operation of explosives required for blasting and
tunneling activities
Underground construction work including tunneling, excavation and other related
activities
Construction at heights
Fire safety aspects
Cross drainage construction work
Storage, handling, detection and safety measures for gases, chemicals and flammable
liquids
Movement of vehicles on construction site
All persons need to be made aware of the dangerous conditions and risks involved in their
activities. They should be trained to take necessary precautions for their own safety as well as
that of others working at site. This should typically involve following the Safe Operating Procedure
(SOP) wherever applicable, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as helmets, gloves,
gum boots, safety harness, etc., remain active and alert without any influence of alcohol or other
intoxicating substances during working hours.
The safety requirement generally vary according to the type of structure, type of construction
methodology, type of strata encountered and number of men and type of machinery deployed at

site, therefore, it is important to develop site specific construction safety procedures. Such SOPs
need to be incorporated in letter and spirit and all the staff involved need to be sensitized to the
importance of safety and trained. A full time safety manager, will be appointed by the project
developer with duties of monitoring and audit delegated to other staff members on safety
aspects.
Apart from procuring the appropriate and adequate number of PPEs it is also important to
maintain sufficient number of first aid boxes and some volunteers trained in giving first aid
treatment. Further, the outsiders coming to site such as drivers, helpers, etc. also need to be
made aware of safety requirement of their activity. This can be achieved by putting posters
carrying safety instructions for the benefit of all and giving verbal instructions at the entry point
also.
Table 9.2 gives list of BIS Standards related to safety aspects during various stages of
construction, installation, erection of different components and appurtenance of river valley
projects, including inspection, observation and maintenance aspects from safety consideration.
Table 9.2: List of relevant BIS Standards

IS No. Title
1 IS 10386 Safety code for construction, operation and maintenance of river
(Part 1):1983 valley projects: Part 1 General aspects
(Part 2):1982 valley projects: Part 2 Amenities, protective clothing and
equipment
(Part 3):1992 valley projects Part 3 Plant & machinery
(Part 4):1992 valley projects Part 4 Handling, transportation and storage of
explosives
(Part 5):1992 valley projects: Part 5 Electrical aspects
(Part 6):1983 valley projects: Part 6 Construction
(Part 7):1993 valley projects: Part 7 Fire safety aspects
(Part 8):1995 valley projects Part 8 Excavation
(Part 9):1998 valley projects Part 9 Canals and cross drainage works
(Part 10):1983 valley projects: Part 10 Storage, handling, detection and safety
measures for gases, chemicals and flammable liquids
9.5 ENVIRONMENT & SAFETY AUDIT

As the operations are large and fairly wide spread, it is important to ensure that all the mitigation
measures remain in place for the entire duration of the project. To ensure the same it is proposed
that a rapid audit will be carried out every three months and a detailed third party audit every
year. At the beginning of the project, with the help of environmental experts, SOPs, Work
Instructions and formats/templates to keep records of environmental performance will be
developed. The audit scope will be to review in detail all the documents/formats filled up to
substantiate environmental performance of the project; any complaints/concerns received from
local population and developer/contractor’s response; training imparted to workers and staff and

results of such programs; records of implementation of various mitigation and management
measures as per approved EIA/EMP reports; results of environmental monitoring and accident
records; physical inspection of the sites and the area; interaction with workers and staff, etc.
Regular audits will ensure that there is continual improvement in environmental performance of
the project.
9.6 COST ESTIMATES

Various mitigation and management measures have been discussed above to reduce the impacts
of air, noise and water pollution and implement safety measures to ensure that impacts on these
counts are reduced to minimum possible during the entire construction phase. To implement such
measures, it is important to prepare a budget of such measures and include in the project cost so
that lack of fund should not constrain their implementation.
Some of the measures suggested have already been covered under other heads of environmental
management; therefore, an estimate of only additional cost is given below in Table 9.3.
Table 9.3: Estimated cost for implementation of mitigation and safety measures
Amount
Particulars
(Rs.in lakh)
Procuring and replenishing the stock of PPEs during the construction phase 35.00
Training and Awareness programs for local residents, contractors labour, 12.00
drivers, cleaners, etc. @ Rs. 3 lakh per annum for 4 years
Internal audit (every 3 months) and third party detailed audit (every year) @ 40.00
Rs. 10.00 lakh per annum for 4 years
Total 87.00


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Chapter 7

MUCK DUMPING PLAN

Muck generated from excavation of any project component is required to be disposed in a

An account of the same has been given in the following paragraphs.

7.2 QUANTITY OF MUCK TO BE GENERATED

7.3 DUMPING SITES

7.3.1 Criteria for Selection of Dumping Sites

used as dumping sites:

long distance transport of muck.

do not have a possibility of toe erosion and slope instability.

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.1

Table 7.1: Quantity of muck to be generated and muck to be disposed

Open Excavation 3763 5456

3 Barrage & Intake

Open Excavation 142060 205987

4 Head Race Tunnel

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.2

Table 7.2: Details of Muck Dumping Sites

Table 7.3: Details of Cross-sections of Muck Dumping Sites

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.3

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.4

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.5

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.6

Figure 7.3: Cross Sections of the Muck dumping Areas 1 & 2

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.7

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.8

Figure 7.5: Cross Sections of the Muck dumping Area 3

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.9

Figure 7.6: Cross Sections of the proposed retaining wall

7.5 REHABILITATION OF SPOIL DUMPS

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.10

7.5.1 Engineering Measures

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.11

Table 7.4: Cost of engineering measures

7.5.2 Biological Measures

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.12

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.13

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.14

7.6 FINANCIAL REQUIREMENT

Table 7.6: Financial requirements for implementation of Muck Disposal Plan

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 7.15

LANDSCAPING, RESTORATION &

Chapter LANDSCAPING, RESTORATION &

8.2 AREAS REQUIRING LANDSCAPING & RESTORATION PLAN

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 8.1

8.2.1 Construction Sites

8.2.2 Contractor camps, colony areas and office complex

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 8.2

8.2.3 Quarry Area

8.2.4 Road Construction

8.3 LANDSCAPING & RESTORATION PLAN

8.3.1 Biological & Engineering Measures

i) Measures to be adopted before quarrying

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 8.3

Figure 8.1: Location of Quarry site

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 8.4

8.3.2 Green Belt Development

8.3.2.1 Roadside/Avenue Plantation

Proponent: Mechuka Hydro Power Private Limited 8.5