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Chettinad Cement Corporation Limited Arungal Limestone Mines
Village Arungal, Taluk & District Ariyalur, Tamil Nadu
Extent 67.730 Ha
Limestone & Marl Production @ 0.80 MTPA (New Mining Lease for Captive Use)
Environmental Clearance under EIA Notification 2006
Category ‘A’
Summary Environmental Impact Assessment Report
June 2010
Environmental System Consultants Ensyscon Environmental Laboratory Old 7, New 14, Shanmuga Naicker Street,
K K Nagar West, Chennai-600 078. Phone : 044-2364 3663; Fax-044-2364 2663
e-mail : [email protected]
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines
Village Arungal, Taluk & District Ariyalur, Tamil Nadu
Extent 67.730 Ha Limestone & Marl Production @ 0.80 MTPA
(New Mining Lease for Captive Use)
Summary Environmental Impact Assessment Report
1.0 Project Description 1.1 Project Proponent
M/s. Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. (Chettinad Cement) of Chettinad House are one of the biggest
industrial houses in South India. The Chettinad House is today engaged in activities such as Cement,
Granite, Silica, Garnet, Engineering, Information Technology, Plantations, Steel & Textile Trading,
Shipping, Transportation, Stevedoring, Clearing & Forwarding and Logistics and is having a combined
turnover of Rs.8,500 million.
Chettinad Cement is operating three cement plants in Tamil Nadu State viz. Puliyur (Karur District),
Karikkali (Dindigul District) and Kilapaluvur (Ariyalur District) for the total production of 9.2 million tons per
annum (MTPA). Chettinad Cement is producing Ordinary Portland Cement, Portland Pozzolana Cement,
Slag Cement, etc. and marketing their products with brand name Chettinad Royal Grades 53 & 43,
Chettinad PPC, Sulphur Resistant Cement, Super Grade Cement, etc.
Chettinad Cement is establishing a 5.5 MTPA Cement Plant (2 Lines) at Kilapaluvur in Ariyalur Taluk &
District of Tamil Nadu State. First Line of 2.75 MTPA is commissioned and the Second Line is under
construction.
Chettinad Cement is also setting up a Cement Plant of 2.5 MTPA at Kallur, Chincholi, Gulburga District in
Karnataka State.
Chettinad Cement is in possession of IS/ISO-9001 (Quality Management System Certification) IS/ISO-
14001 (Environment Management System Certification) and ISO-18001 (Occupational Health Safety
Management System Certification). Chettinad Cement has also bagged a number of National Awards
from various National Agencies/Forums.
1.2 Need for the Project
Chettinad Cement is having 936.38 Ha of Limestone bearing areas in the Ariyalur Region. By the latest
prospecting in all 18 mine blocks, the Limestone Reserves is estimated to be 163.78 million tons.
Kilapaluvur Cement Plant requires limestone of about 5.5 MTPA on expansion. Existing Reserves will
cater the Cement Plant for about 30 Years.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Presently, the limestone requirement of Kilapaluvur Plant is being met from Pudupalayam Limestone
Mines, Alanthuraiyarkattalai Limestone Mines, Aminabad Limestone mines and Unjini Limestone mines.
These 4 mine blocks are supplying/going to supply about 4.0 MTPA limestone and to meet the additional
demand, Chettinad Cement has to open up the new Mine Blocks in the area. Arungal Limestone Block is
one of the mines to be opened and operated immediately to cater the Cement Plant.
1.3 Arungal Limestone Mines
Arungal Limestone Mines is a fresh Mine Lease over an extent of 67.730 Ha in SF Nos. 48/1A1, 1A2, 1A3,
etc. upto 98/4D in Village Arungal, Taluk Ariyalur, District Ariyalur, Tamil Nadu State (Fig. 1.1). ML area is
Patta Dry Agricultural Land owned by Chettinad Cement and there is no Forest/Govt. Land envisaged.
It is proposed to mine out 0.56 MTPA Limestone and 0.24 MTPA Marl (and thus a total of 0.80 MTPA)
during the Mine Plan Period. Precise Area communication has been accorded by the State Department of
Geology and Mining vide Letter 10047/MM1/2008 dated 01.06.2009. On submission of the Environmental
Clearance from MoEF and approved Mine Plan from Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), the State
Government will consider the grant of mining lease. IBM, Bangalore has approved the Mine Plan vide its
Letter No. TN/ALR/MP/LST & MARL-1742/SZ dated 16.08.2009.
1.4 Mine Reserves
Proposed ML area has been explored by drilling and the entire reserves on limestone have been
grouped under proved category. A summary of updated geological recoverable and mineable reserves is
as follows:
Type of Reserves Proved Reserves, million Tonnes
Grade Limestone Marl Total
Geological reserves (as on 01.04.2009) 6.378 2.733 9.111 Cement grade
Mineable reserves (as on 01.04.2009) 4.465 1.913 6.378 Cement grade
Grand Total 10.843 4.646 15.489 -
In accordance with the UNFC classification, Arungal reserves can be categorized as being “111”.
1.5 Life of the Mine
Mineable Reserves as on 01-04-2009
Production planned for Plan Period (I-V Year)
:
:
6.378
2.700
Million tonnes
Million tonnes
Balance Reserves : 3.678 Million tonnes
Life of mine considering production of 0.5 MTPA : 7.4 Years (say)
Total life of mine (5 + 7.4 = say) : 13 years
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
1.6 Mining
The Mine Layout is shown as Fig. 1.2. Mining operations shall be carried out by fully mechanized
opencast method utilizing Heavy Earth Moving Equipment (HEME) in conjunction with Non conventional
method of mining by using Rock breakers for the fragmentation of oversize boulders. Drilling and blasting
shall be carried out to create fragmented material, which shall be loaded using hydraulic excavator. The
loaded material shall be transported to the Cement Plant.
For drilling, pneumatically operated wagon drills will be used in combination with the diesel-operated
compressors. The diameter of drill hole will vary from 100 mm to 115 mm. Wagon drills of Atlas copco
make may be used for primary drilling of limestone. The depth of the holes will vary from 6.0 m to 6.5 m.
Deep hole blasting will be carried out with Slurry explosives and ANFO. Electric delay detonators with
detonating fuse will be used for charging of holes with explosives. As and when the necessity arises,
even advanced technology of Non-electric initiation system of blasting with shock tube detonators in
combination with noise less trunk delays will also be used. Breaker attachment with Excavator will be
used for liquidating the secondary boulders.
The blasted limestone will be excavated with the hydraulic excavators. The height of the benches will be
designed in such a way that the height of the benches is not more than the boom height of the machine.
The excavated material will be loaded in to the 20 T Tarus Tippers to transport to the Plant.
The Mine Pit configuration and ground water-table levels are as follows :
Mine Pit : Top RL : 62 m
Bottom RL : 44 m
Ultimate Pit Limit : 44 m RL (18 m bgl)
Ground Water-table Level : 37-40 m RL (22-25 m bgl)
Thus, the water table shall not be encountered during the mining.
Bench Parameters :
Bench height : 6 m
Bench width : > 6 m (more than the height of the bench)
Bench slope : 10o-15o to the vertical
No. of Benches :
Top soil : 1 (1.0 - 2.0 m height)
Over burden : 1 ( 4 - 6 m height)
Limestone : 1 or 2 (5 - 6 m height)
It is proposed to operate the mines in 2 shifts of 8 hour each. The proposed Site Services includes Mines
Office, Rest Shelter, First Aid Centre, Water Tank, Public Convenience, Security Shed, etc. No workshop
or Township is proposed. Centralised workshop at the Plant would be utilized.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
1.7 Yearly Development Plan
The total proposed year-wise material handling, net recoverable limestone, recovery ratio, from this mine
is as follows: (in Lakh Tones)
Year Top
Soil
Over-
burden
Total Qnty.
of Waste
Qnty. of
Limestone
Qnty. of
Marl
Total
Production
Ore: Waste
Ratio
1st Year 1.85 6.34 8.19 2.80 1.20 4.00 1:2.05
2nd Year 0.96 2.88 3.84 3.15 1.35 4.50 1:0.85
3rd Year 0.84 3.57 4.41 3.50 1.50 5.00 1:0.88
4th Year 0.69 2.88 3.57 3.85 1.65 5.50 1:0.65
5th Year 2.47 11.92 14.39 5.60 2.40 8.00 1:1.25
Total 6.81 27.59 34.40 18.90 8.10 27.00 1:1.36
The proposed mining operations like Topsoil & Overburden handling, Limestone production, afforestation
programmes & Backfilling operations on five-year basis till the end of the life of the mine on five-year
basis is as follows :
Blo
ck
Per
iod
(Yrs
)
To
p S
oil
(lac
tone
s)
OB
/Mar
l
(lac
tone
s)
Lim
esto
ne
(lac
tone
s) Afforestation Back filling
Mar
l
(lac
tone
s)
Area covered
(ha)
No. of
trees
Area
(ha)
Quantity
(lac m3)
1-5th year 6.81 27.59 18.90 8.10 1.50 2000 31 18.00
6-13th year 17.50 49.91 27.15 11.63 14.40 18000 10.57 22.88
OB Dump : Length 350 m x Width 100 m x Height 9 m.
No sub grade will be generated during the planned period except marl which will be consumed as a
blending material.
1.8 Post Mining Land Use
Proposed ML area of 67.730 Ha is the mineralised area. The total excavated area shall be around 61.40
Ha at the end of life of the mine. Out of the 61.40 Ha excavated, 31.40 Ha will be backfilled & afforested
and remaining 30.00 Ha will be converted as an artificial pond to store rainwater and will be used for
pisciculture. The reservoir will have the potential to store 6.50 million m3 of water and this would improve
the ground water table potential of the area.
The undisturbed virgin lease area along the mining lease boundary shall be utilized for afforestation
purposes by developing the area with Neem, Pungan, Acacia, Subhapal, Teak etc. This work shall be
done after the cessation of mining operations.
During the mining plan it is stated that during the ensuing 5 year mine plan period about 15.20 ha area
shall be put to use for mining and other allied activities.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
1.9 Man Power
The mine will employ about 30 persons.
1.10 Water Requirement
The mine requires about 40 KLD raw water as detailed below :
Domestic Usage : 5 KLD
Dust Suppression : 10 KLD
Green Belt : 25 KLD
Total : 40 KLD
The water requirement of the mine would be met from own borewell and mine pit seepage water.
1.11 Green Belt
The undisturbed virgin lease area along the mining lease boundary shall be utilized for afforestation
purposes by developing the area with Neem, Pungan, Acacia, Subhapal, Teak etc. Afforestation
programme for the Plan Period is as follows:
Year Area (sq m) No. of Saplings 1st year 1500 250 2nd year 1500 250
3rd year 3000 500 4th year 3000 500 5th year 3000 500 Total 15000 2000
1.12 Project Cost
The capital cost of the Project is Rs. 12.00 crores with the following breakups :
Land Cost : Rs. 2.00 crores
Building & Others : Rs. 0.50 crores
Machineries Cost : Rs. 9.50 crores
Total : Rs.12.00 crores
1.13 EMP Budget
A budget of Rs.7.00 Lakhs per Annum is earmarked for EMP & Environmental Monitoring Works, Rs.5.00
Lakhs per Annum for Social Measures and Rs.3.00 Lakhs per Annum for Occupational Health & Safety
Measures.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
1.14 EIA Study
The proposed mines over an Extent of 67.73 Ha is falling under Category ‘A’ (mining in >50 Ha) of EIA
Notification 2006 and needs the Environmental Clearance from the Central EIA Authority at MoEF, New
Delhi. Thus, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)-Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Study
is proposed. Chettinad Cement has entrusted the EIA-EMP Study on M/s. Environmental System
Consultants (Ensyscon), Ensysocn Environmental Laboratory, Chennai.
On the applied Application and Presentation, the proposal was considered by the Honourable Expert
Appraisal Committee (EAC)-2 (Mining) during its 1st Meeting held during 29-30th September 2009 in
determination of the Terms of Reference (TOR) for undertaking detailed EIA study in accordance with the
provisions of the EIA notification 2006. The finalised TORs are communicated vide MoEF Letter J-
11015/208/2009.IA.II(M) dated 26.10.2009. The baseline data for EIA Study was carried out during Dec.
2009-Feb. 2010 representing the Winter 2009-10 Season. The Experts pooled for the EIA Study are :
M/s.Sai Geo Survey Consultant for preparing the Mine Plan (by Chettiand Cement).
M/s. Ensyscon Environmental Laboratory, Chennai for the environmental monitoring works which has
the competency and infrastructure in carrying out such studies (TNPCB Letter to the Effect Ref.
P&D1/22214/99 dt. 29.06.1999).
Dr. S.Aruchamy, Sr. Lecturer, Bharathidasan University, Trichy for Hydrogeological, Land Use and
Demographic studies.
Dr. P.V.Sreekumar, Scientist, Botanical Survey of India, Port Blair and his team for Flora-Fauna
studies including Avian Fauna.
Dr. D.Srinivasan, Reader, Department of Geology, National College (under Bharathidasan University),
Trichy for the Hydrogeological Studies.
2.0 Description of the Environment 2.1 Environmental Setting
Arungal Mine is located inbetween 11o01’28”-11o01’41” N Latitude & 79o05’07”-79o05’18” E Longitude
(Figs. 2.1) (Survey of India Topo Sheet No. 58 M/4). The elevation in the ML area is between 60-62 m
above MSL. The site falls under semi-arid zone and is free from seismic effects (Seismic Zone II).
Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary (recently notified) is at a distance of 7 km in southwest from the ML area. There
is no Reserved Forest within 10 km radius area. There is no grazing, forest land in the close vicinity.
Sub-tropical climate prevails over the study area. The nearest IMD Centre is Trichy Airport at a distance
of 60 km in the south. The temperature is maximum during March to May and it drops from June
onwards. The maximum temperature ranges from 40 °C to 44 °C and the minimum temperature from 26
°C to 30 °C. The nearest raingauge station is located at Ariyalur. The 70 years normal annual rainfall in
the area is around 1096 mm.
The study area exhibits plain terrain with a gentle slope towards east. The minimum and maximum
elevation of the study area is 30 and 110 m amsl (above mean sea level) respectively. The maximum
elevation is noticed in the western side of the study area. There is no hillocks noticed in the study area.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
River Marudaiyar and River Coleroon drain the region. Both are non-perennial rivers. Marudaiyar River
flows towards southeast and joins River Coleroon. There are small seasonal streams/nallahs flow in the
area which join either River Marudaiyar or River Coleroon. The overall drainage pattern of the region
appears to be dendritic. There are numerous irrigation tanks in the study area. The tanks receive water
during the monsoon periods. The seasonal rivulets forming Ottan Odai originate near the Lease Area.
However, there is no nallah crossing in the ML area.
ML area is located at 12 km south of Ariyalur Town (aerial distance). The site is accessible from
Kilapaluvur (Trichy-Chidambaram NH-227 & Tanjore-Ariyalur SH-27 Junction). It is located at a distance
of 2 km from SH27, 5 km from Kilapaluvur, 6.5 km from Chettinad Cement Kilapaluvur Cement Plant and
15 km from Ariyalur (by road). Arungal is at a distance of 3 km in the east to ML area.
Chennai-Trichy-Madurai-Kanyakumari Southern Railway BG Line runs at a distance of 7 km in northwest.
Ariyalur Town is the nearest Station at a distance of 17 km. The nearest Airport is Trichy at a distance of
50 km in the south. The nearest Ports are at Chennai (320 km) and Cuddalore (115 km).
Kothari Sugar Factory is located near Thirumanur at a distance of 2 km from site in the south. There are
major Cement Plants in the Ariyalur Region. Dalmia Cement Plant at Kallakkudi (4.02 MTPA) at a
distance of 16 km in the west-southwest, State Government owned TANCEM near Kallankurichi (0.6
MTPA) at a distance of 14 km in the north and Aditya Birla Group’s Grasim Cement Plant at
Reddippalaiyam (1.2 MTPA) at a distance of 13 km in the northeast. Two major Cement Plants are being
established by Madras Cements at Govindapuram (3.0 MTPA) and Dalmia Cement at Tamaraikulam (2.5
MTPA) near Ariyalur (16-17 km in the north). There are number of Limestone Mines belonging to
Chettinad Cement, Madras Cement, Dalmia Cement, Grasim Cement, TANCEM, TAMIN, etc. in the
Region.
2.2 Environmental Components
Considering the environmental setting of project, project activities and their interaction, environmental
Regulations and Standards, following Environmental Attributes have been included for the EIA study.
Study Area will be covering 10 km Radius from Project Boundary (Fig. 2.1). The Project site and its
environs fall in Industrial, Residential, Rural and Other Areas Category as per National Ambient Air Quality
(NAAQ) Standards revised as per GSR 826(E) dated 16.11.2009.
Site specific Micrometeorological Data for the parameters Wind Speed & direction, Temperature,
Humidity, Cloud Cover and Rainfall.
Ambient Air Quality (at 14 locations) for the parameters : PM2.5, PM10, SPM, SO2, NOx, CO, HC &
Particulate Lead.
Noise Level Measurements at 14 Locations for both Leq-Day and Leq-Night values.
Water Quality-both Surface Waters (6 Locations) and Ground Waters (12 Locations) for IS:10500
Norms.
Soil Quality (5 Locations) for Textural & Physical Parameters, Nutrients, etc.
Present & Post-project Land Use Pattern based on Satellite Imagery.
Biotic Attributes : Flora & Fauna -Core zone & Buffer zone-Diversity Index.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Socio-Economic Profile (2001 Census) : Total Population, Household Size, Age, Gender
Composition, SC/ST, Literacy Level, Occupational Structure, etc.
The findings of baseline environmental study of the study area are summarized below :
The collected meteorological data during this season represented the local weather phenomena.
While comparing with the National Ambient Air Quality (NAAQ) Standards revised as per GSR 826(E),
all monitored PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NOx, CO and Particulate Pb values were found to be well within
the respective limit values for 8/24-hourly periods.
Ambient equivalent noise levels (Leq) during day and night times were found to be well within the
MoEF Norms for Residential areas.
The water quality of surface waters was found to be in compliance with CPCB norms.
The ground water quality was found to be in compliance with the IS:10500 Norms.
The soil in the study area would very well support vegetation after amending it suitably.
Presence of number of phanerophytes (shrubs and trees) and therophytes (annuals) indicates
semiarid vegetation structure in the study area.
Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary is at a distance of 7 km in southwest from ML area. There is no Wild Life
Sanctuary or National Park or Biosphere or Hotspots within the study area of 10 km. Domesticated
animals and common fauna only exist in the study area.
The area is thinly populated. All the villages are electrified, road connected and provided with water
supply. The basic amenities are there almost at all villages.
Thus, adequate buffer exists for the proposed Expansion activity in the physical, biological and edaphic
environments of the study area.
3.0 Anticipated Environmental Impact and Mitigation Measures 3.1 Air Environment
Prediction of ground level concentrations (GLC’s) due to the mines has been made by Industrial Source
Complex Short Term (ISCST3) Area Model. The model uses rural dispersion and regulatory defaults options
as per guidelines on air quality models (PROBES/70/1997-1998). The cumulative concentrations (baseline
+ incremental) of the project are tabulated below :
Table : Predicted GLCs-PM10
(During the Survey Period, Predominant winds were from NE-SW)
Sl. No
Zone Background
Concentration, ug/m3
Maximum Predicted GLC
(24-Hour), ug/m3
Total Concentration,
ug/m3
NAAQ Norms for
PM10, ug/m3
Buffer Available in Atmosphere, %
1 Corezone 34.3 0.84 35.14 100 64.86
2 Buffer Zone 38.2 0.51 38.71 100 61.29
Note : Worst case scenario; simultaneous/cumulative emissions from all sources.
* : NAAQ Norms-National Ambient Air Quality Norm (24/8 hly.) stipulated for Industrial, Residential and Rural Areas.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
The predicted values were spatially distributed on the existing baseline status and the cumulative impacts
was found to be confined locally i.e. within 3 km radius from the boundaries. Also, Adequate Buffer (61-
65%) exists in the Air Environment for the proposed Mine activities.
Proposed Mitigating Measures-Air Environment : Dust generation due to mining activities would be
controlled as follows :
Prevention of fine dust getting air borne by spraying water on the dust generation points.
Drilling with dust extractors and use of water jet for dousing the cuttings.
Well designed blast by effective stemming and use of milli second delay detonators.
Avoiding blasting during high wind periods.
Maintenance and Wetting of haul roads strictly as per standards.
Avoiding over loading of trailers/tippers.
Covering of trailers/tippers with tarpaulin during transportation.
Periodical maintenance of trucks/trailers.
Periodical check up of vehicles for ‘Emission Under Control’ measures.
Development of green belt along the roads, mine peripheries, etc.
3.2 Noise Environment
The study area represents residential and industrial areas for comparing with the MoEF Ambient Noise
Norms. Ambient noise levels were ranging from 32.4 dB(A) to 97.2 dB(A) during day time and from 29.7
dB(A) to 94.3 dB(A) during night time on the monitoring day. Day Equivalent Noise (Leq-d) level was found
to be 40.7 dB(A) and Night Equivalent Noise (Leq-n) level was 38.4 dB(A). While comparing with MoEF
Norm of 55 dB(A) for day time and 45 dB(A) for night time, monitored ambient noise levels were well within
the limit values for Residential areas.
The noise levels due to the Mine Equipments’ operations would be maintained at <90 db(A) at a distance
of 1.5 m from the sources. Noise level at the boundaries would be maintained <55 dB(A) during day
times and <45 dB(A) during night times, well within the MoEF Norms for Residential and Rural Areas.
Vibration : Ground vibrations would be continuously monitored during Blastings using a Minimate
Seismograph of Instantel, Canada. Based on the monitoring data available with Chettinad Cement, for
normal charge, the Peak Particulate Velocity (PPV) were much lower than 12.5 mm/sec fixed for mines.
Traffic Volume : There are major cement plants & their captive mines and a sugar plant in the region.
The baseline status near the mine entrance road was as follows :
Total Traffic/24 hours : 634
Average Traffic Flow/hr. : 26
Max. Traffic Flow (Nos.)/hr. : 32 (between 08:00-10:00 & 17:00-19:00 hrs.)
Min. Traffic Flow (Nos.)/hr. : 8 (between 02:00-04:00 hrs.)
Heavy vehicles were contributing about 42% during day times and 24% during night times.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Proposed Mitigating Measures :
Green Belt with thick foliage along roads and around lease boundary to act as acoustic barriers.
Deploying equipment with in-built mechanism for reducing noise.
Proper maintenance of mining equipments and transport vehicles.
Providing sound proof operator's cabin of equipments.
Blasting using optimum burden, charge and milli second delay detonators.
Proper maintenance of compressors, drilling machines, etc.
Provision of silencers to modulate the noise generated by the machines.
Provision of ear muffs/ear plugs to the Workers in higher noise zones.
Implementing speed limit.
3.3 Water Environment
The mining will not intersect the water table. The mine requires about 40 KLD raw water which would be
met from own borewell and mine pit seepage water. Necessary permission from SGWB/CGWB would be
obtained for ground water tapping.
Mine Seepage Water : The accumulation of water inside the mines would be mainly due to the surface
water entering the mines during rainy periods. A pump of 25 HP will be installed and pumping will be
done to dewater the mine seepage. The excess water pumped out during the rainy season will be
discharged into the near by water course. During rest of the year, the water accumulated in the mine
sump area would be utilized for Green Belt development and for dust suppression measures.
Wastewater Generation : Domestic sewage generation is 4.5 KLD which would be treated in a soak pit
followed by dispersion trench.
Proposed Mitigating Measures :
Maintaining a gradient of 1o or 2o on the bench floors (for drainage of water) and construction of
water drains to prevent soil erosion and uncontrolled descent of water.
Construction/maintenance of garland drains around mines area with proper gradients to prevent rain
water descent into active mine areas.
Earthen banks will be provided on non-operating side of dumps to arrest wash-off. Saplings will also
be planted along the foot and unused slopes to arrest / prevent erosion.
Rain Water Harvesting : Chettinad Cement is harvesting the rain water at their mines, plants and
townships and contributing in maintaining the ground water-table level of the Study Area. The same
practices will be continued at this mine also.
3.4 Land Environment
Topsoil (6.81 lakh tons) will be temporarily stored and utilised for topping the afforestation areas. The total
quantity of OB that will be generated during the plan period is about 27.59 lakh ton which will be back
filled in the mined out areas and afforested.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Land is to be reclaimed and restored to original condition at the earliest by :
Refilling of the mined out areas.
Reclamation of dumped areas.
Systematic advance planning of the mine abandonment/closure stage, at the end of mine life.
Green belt and afforestation in the reclaimed areas. Well planned plantation and green belt
development schemes will be carried out to ensure that the biological, aesthetic and visual
appearance of the area is improved as compared to pre-mining status.
After reaching ultimate depth, the excavated mine pits would be converted into a water reservoir. The
reservoir would be used for pisciculture and agricultural activiities for the benefit of nearby villagers. Local
Women Self Help Groups & Panchayats would be permitted to maintain and enjoy the benefits.
3.5 Occupational Health
Occupational Health Problems are addressed by a team of Qualified Doctors employed in Chettinad
Cement. Occupational Health Centre at Kilapaluvur Plant has a full fledged dispensary equipped with : 10
bedded hospital, X-ray unit, Computerised ECG, Laboratory, Computerised blood chemistry analyzer,
Ultra Short Wave Therapy, Visual Tests, Physiotherapy Unit, Audiometer & Spirometer, Ambulance, etc.
Periodical medical examinations for all employees would be covered. Every year, 20% of the strength of
employees would be covered.
The possible diseases likely to be associated with Limestone mining operations are :
Mild silicosis which unattended, can turn into chronic type.
Silico-tuberculosis
Dust related pneumonia
Eye diseases with irritation of eye, etc.
Enough care will be exercised to detect early incidences of above diseases, if any, for prompt treatment
and cure. Safety aspects are also ensured to reduce incidents, if any.
Proposed Mitigating Measures :
Provision of AC cabin for HEMM operators.
Provision of ergonomically designed seats for drivers/operators
Provision of illumination facilities at proper places of mines for ease of working during night times.
Work comfort and its periodic review by a committee.
Provision of all Personal Protective Equipments for the employees at Mines.
Provision of Rest Shelter at mines.
Provision of chilled drinking water (from RO Plant) in dining rooms.
Subsidised food facilities.
Provision of quota (jackery, fruits, soap, oil, cloth, etc)
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
3.6 Socioeconomics
Chettinad Cement is presently carrying out various Socio Measures for the local as well as regional
populations in the Cement Plant and Mines locations like :
Borewell sinking, laying of pipe lines and supplying of drinking water
Construction and renovation of school & hospital buildings
Laying and maintenance of local village roads
Construction of houses for economically weaker sections
Construction and renovation of temples
Street lights fittings
Free Medical Camps
Self employment programmes (Tailoring, Wire Knitting, etc.) for Self Help Women Groups.
Extending Educational Facilities upto Professional Courses levels.
Proposed Mitigating Measures : In responses to the need based assessment study, proposes the
following measures for the society :
Joining Hands with District Administration in implementing Govt. Schemes.
Committed for Infrastructure Facility in the Region.
Adoption of Sub-Centres & Provision of Ambulance for the villages and other medical facilities.
Contribution to Education in the area.
Company carries out various welfare activities for the benefit of the villagers under following heads :
• Drinking Water Schemes
• Medical Camps
• Education
• Infrastructure Developments like Roads
• Community Development
• Sports
• Calamity
• Religious & Others.
Adequate budgetary provisions will be made for carrying the CSR activities and implemented.
4.0 Environmental Monitoring Programme
For effective implementations of Environmental Management Plan, Chettinad Cement has the
Environment Monitoring Cell comprising of experts from civil, geology, mining, etc. under the overall
supervision of the Technical Director. The periodical monitoring of quality of air, water, soil and noise
levels would be monitored as per specified norms and the reports would be submitted to MoEF, TNPCB
and IBM on regular basis.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
5.0 Additional Studies
Risk Assessment and DMP : The mine activities, fire, water inundation, electrical shock, natural
calamities, etc. are the risks associated with the mining activities. Detailed assessment and mitigative
measures are delineated and an effective Disaster Management Plan is also envisaged.
Hydrogeological Study : The CGWB/SGWB Authorities categorized Ariyalur Block as Semi-Critical
Area. The ground water estimation was made based on the Ground water Estimation Committee
Methodology – 1997 (GEC-1997) of Government of India and the Mine area is found to be falling in Safe
Category.
6.0 Project Benefits
The proposal will ensure the continuous limestone supply to the Cement Plant.
Limestone excavation and cement production shall result in the industrial growth of the region.
The Project would generate direct & indirect employment and business opportunities in the region.
The Project will be beneficial and important to the Society and the Country by :
Loyalty to the Exchequer. Direct and indirect employments. Improvement in direct and indirect means of livelihoods of local population. Improved local and regional economy.
There will be a huge positive impact by way of employment, better socioeconomic conditions, improved
local and regional economy, etc.
7.0 Environmental Management Plan
Environmental Management Plans are suggested to mitigate the possible negative impacts that may be
caused to the various attributes of environment due to the proposed mining operations.
7.1 Air Pollution
Dust generation in the working areas shall be controlled by :
Prevention of fine dust getting air borne by spraying water on the dust generation points
Drilling with dust extractors and use of water jet for dousing the cuttings.
Well designed blast by effective stemming and use of milli second delay detonators.
Avoiding blasting during high wind periods.
Development of green belt along the roads, waste dumps, etc.
7.2 Noise & Vibration
Green Belt development with thick foliage along roads and around the boundaries.
Proper maintenance of compressor, drilling machine, loader and tippers trucks.
Blasting by using optimum burden, charge and milli second delay detonators.
Chettinad Cement Corporation Ltd. Arungal Limestone Mines, Ariyalur-Extent 67.730 Ha-Production 0.80 MTPA
Ensyscon, Chennai-78.
Regular preventive maintenance of machineries and transport vehicles.
Provision of the silencers to modulate the noise generated by the machines.
Provision of ear muffs / ear plugs to Mine Workers.
7.3 Ground Water
Provision of garland drain to regulate and drain the rain water from the mining areas.
Providing sufficient check dams to check silt flowing along with the surface run- off.
Provision of retention walls at the foot of the existing dumps.
7.4 Land Restoration
The land is to be reclaimed and restore to the original ecological condition by adopting :
Refilling of the mined out areas.
Green belt and afforestation.
Reclamation of dumped areas.
7.5 Green Belt
Green Belt shall be developed with thick foliage along roads and around the boundaries.
An effective Afforestation (with predominantly fruit giving trees) shall be done in the Backfilled areas.
Green Belt maintained with the help of Women Self Help Groups of the nearby villages.
7.6 Conclusion
The Proposal is for limestone production in support of the existing Cement Plant.
Mining activities shall be in compliance with MoEF, TNPCB and IBM Norms.
Chettinad Cement Plant and Mining operations would comply Corporate Responsibility for
Environmental Protection (CREP) Guidelines and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Norms.
***