social- environmental impact study report
TRANSCRIPT
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Social- Environmental Impact Study Report
300 MW Wind Power Project
Dangri, Jaisalmer District Rajasthan
Inox Renewable Limited (IRL)
May 2012
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER NO
CONTENT PAGE NO.
I EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 10
II INTRODUCTION 13
III ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 17
IV PROJECT DESCRIPTION 24
V BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION 34
VI ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 53
VII ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 68
VIII PUBLIC CONSULTATION, FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 90
3
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE NO CONTENT PAGE NO.
II.1 LOCATION MAP SHOWING THE PROJECT SITE
15
IV.1 AERIAL VIEW SHOWING THE APPROXIMATE BOUNDARY OF
THE PROJECT SITE 25
IV.2 INDICATIVE CONSTRUCTION AND COMMISSIONING
SCHEDULE FOR 300 MW CAPACITY WHICH IS EXPECTED TO
BE COMMISSIONED BY MARCH 2013
27
IV.3 PROJECT SITE CONNECTIVITY BY ROAD 30
IV.4 VIEW OF IWL WT 2000 DF WIND TURBINE GENERATOR 32
IV.5 CONNECTIVITY DIAGRAM FOR POWER EVACUATION OF 300 MW WIND FARM, DANGRI
33
V.1 SATELLITE VIEW OF THE PROJECT SITE 36
V.2 YEARLY (20 YEARS) WIND ROSE DIAGRAM FOR JAISALMER IMD STATION
37
V.3 WIND ROSE DIAGRAM OF PROJECT SITE FOR MARCH 2012 38
V.4 HOURLY TEMPERATURE VARIATION AT PROJECT SITE 38
V.5 HOURLY HUMIDITY VARIATION AT PROJECT SITE 39
V.6 LANDUSE PATTERN OF STUDY AREA 42
V.7 LITERACY LEVEL OF THE SURROUNDING AREA 44
V.8 OCCUPATIONAL STRUCTURE 45
V.9 LIVESTOCK POPULATION IN THE SURROUNDING AREA 45
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FIGURE NO CONTENT PAGE NO.
V.10 VEGETATION OF THE STUDY AREA 48
VI.1 LOCATION MAP OF PROPOSED WIND FARM IN THE VICINITY
OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT 66
VIII.1 STAKEHOLDERS DURING PUBLIC CONSULTATION 91
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LIST OF TABLE
TABLE NO CONTENT PAGE NO.
VI.1 VEHICULAR REQUIREMENT ON MONTHLY BASIS 29
V.1
SUMMARY OF THE ANNUAL MICROMETEOROLOGY OF THE REGION
35
V.2 SUMMARY OF METEOROLOGICAL DATA AT THE PROJECT SITE
39
V.3 SUMMARY OF AMBIENT AIR QUALITY DATA 40
V.4 EQUIVALENT NOISE LEVELS (LEQ) OF THE STUDY AREA 40
V.5 GROUND WATER QUALITY OF THE STUDY AREA 41
V.6 LANDUSE PATTERN OF THE STUDY AREA 41
V.7 SUMMARY OF THE SOIL QUALITY DATA OF THE STUDY AREA 42
V.8 SUMMARY OF THE POPULATION FOR STUDY AREA 43
V.9 INVENTORY OF FLORA IN THE STUDY AREA 46
V.10 INVENTORY OF FAUNA IN THE STUDY AREA 49
VI.1 CATEGORIZATION OF LIKELIHOOD AND CONSEQUENCE OF
IMPACTS 53
VI.2 NOISE SOURCE STRENGTH OF CONSTRUCTION MACHINERIES
55
VI.3 ADDITION OF SOUND LEVELS, L1 AND L2 (L1 > L2) 56
VII.1 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN: CONSTRUCTION PHASE
68
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TABLE NO CONTENT PAGE NO.
VII.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN: OPERATION PHASE 81
VII.3 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME – CONSTRUCTION PHASE
87
VII.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME - OPERATION PHASE
88
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LIST OF APPENDICES
APPENDIX NO
CONTENT PAGE NO.
1 COORDINATE LOCATION OF WTGs
94
2 MICROSITING DRAWING
99
3 AMBIENT AIR MONITORING LOCATIONS MAP
101
4 NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS
102
5 NOISE MONITORING LOCATIONS MAP
104
6 NOISE MONITORING DATA
105
7 AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS IN RESPECT OF NOISE
109
8 NOISE LEVEL AS PER IFC GUIDELINES
110
9 GROUND WATER MONITORING LOCATIONS MAP
111
10 GROUND WATER QUALITY
112
11 SOIL MONITORING LOCATIONS MAP
114
12 SOIL CHARACTERISTICS
115
13 DEMOGRAPHIC STRUCTURE OF THE STUDY AREA
116
14 LITERACY LEVEL IN THE STUDY AREA
117
15 OCCUPATIONAL STRUCTURE
118
16 BIRD AND BAT STUDY FOR DANGRI WIND FARM PROJECT AT JAISALMER, RAJASTHAN
120
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ABBREVIATION
AAQMS Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations
APHA American Public Health Association
BIS Bureau of Indian Standards
CDM Clean Development Mechanism
CERs Carbon Emission Reduction Certifications
CPCB Central Pollution control board
CWET Centre for Wind Energy Technology
EHS Environment, Health and Safety
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMP Environmental Management Assessment
FIs Financial Intermediaries
GFL Gujarat Fluro chemicals limited
GHS Green House Gasses
HGV Heavy Goods Vehicles
HVS High Volume Sampling
IFC International Finance Corporation‟s
IRL Inox Renewable Limited
IWL Inox Wind limited
LAA Land Acquisition Act
MoEF Ministry of Environment and Forest
NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards
PS Performance Standard
PUC Pollution under Control
RTI Right to Information
RVPNL Rajasthan Rajya vidyut Prasaran Nigam Limited
SIA Social Impact Assessment
SPCB State Pollution control board
TCE Tata Consulting Engineers Limited
TFD Traditional Forest Dwellers
WGB World Bank Group
WTGs Wind Turbine Generators
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REVISION STATUS SHEET
REVISION NO.
MONTH AND YEAR OF ISSUE DETAILS OF REVISION
1 March 2012 Draft report for review and comments
2 April 2012 Final report after incorporating comments
3 May 2012 Final Report
4 June 2012 Final report
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CHAPTER I
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
There has been an enormous increase in global demand for energy in recent years as a result
of industrial development, population growth and enhanced lifestyles. Supply of energy is,
therefore, far less than its actual demand. On the other hand, rise in the global average
temperature has become a major concern, which needs immediate attention.
One of the solutions for improving these situations with minimal impact lies in utilizing the
available potential of renewable source of energy. In this regard wind energy has emerged as
one of the promising renewable energy technologies in India.
It is found that State of Rajasthan witnesses high intensity winds and based on the assessment
made by the Centre for Wind Energy Technology (C-WET), the estimated wind power potential
in the state is estimated to be 5050 MW (source: As per revised estimate by CWET as on
December 2011). Considering the enormous potential in Rajasthan, Inox Renewable Limited
(IRL) proposes to set up 300 MW wind energy project near Dangri village in Jaisalmer District of
Rajasthan.
The proposed wind farm consists of 150 numbers of wind turbine generators (WTGs) with rated
capacity of 2 MW each. The proposed wind turbine sites are located approximately between
26°26' 47.8"N & 26°37'33.3"N latitude and 71°17' 06.04"E & 71°34' 50.2"E longitude. The
project will be developed in the vicinity of Bhalabasti, Rajgarh, Baisanra, Ola, Dangri, Malusar,
Chhodiya, Ramsar, Laxmansar, Mahreri, Samel Nagar, Pabnasar, Khodiyasar villages.
The power generated will be evacuated to Akal GSS (which is operated and maintained by
RVPNL) from pooling Substation of the proposed wind farm.
This project does not fall in any of the eight categories of the projects for which prior
environment clearance from Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) is required as per
Notification SO. 1533 dated 14th Sept‟06 and its subsequent revisions.
The present SEIA study is carried out considering International Finance Corporation‟s (IFC)
Performance Standards (PS‟s) and IFC guidelines. IFC applies PS‟s to manage social and
environmental risks and impacts and to enhance development opportunities in its private sector
financing in its member countries eligible for financing. An investment funded by IFC has to
meet the following PS‟s throughout the construction and operation phases of the project.
The Performance Standards consist of the following:
Performance Standard 1 (PS1): Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social
Risks and Impacts
Performance Standard 2 (PS 2): Labor and Working Conditions
Performance Standard 3 (PS 3): Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention
Performance Standard 4 (PS 4): Community Health, Safety, and Security
Performance Standard 5 (PS 5): Land Acquisition and Involuntary Resettlement
Performance Standard 6 (PS 6): Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of
Living Natural Resources
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Performance Standard 7 (PS 7): Indigenous Peoples
Performance Standard 8 (PS 8): Cultural Heritage
The proposed Wind project is developed on Government revenue land. No acquisition of land
from Private land owners is involved. However, in order to assess impacts on the community
due to project related land acquisition and restrictions on land use, PS5 is included for the
project.
There are no indigenous groups or individuals present in the proposed project Site. There are
no significant cultural heritage assets in the proposed project area. Hence PS7 and PS8 are
excluded for this specific Project.
During the due course of construction and operation phase, Performance standards PS 1, PS2,
PS 3 and PS 4 are applicable for this specific project.
Therefore the Performance standards applicable for the proposed wind farm project are PS1,
PS2, PS3, PS4, PS5 and PS6.
There are no airports, air-force stations and other installations within zone of 10 km from the
nearest WTG.
The Land required for the proposed WTGs, access roads and Electrical substation will be
developed on the Government Revenue Land. The proposed project does not involve any
physical displacement (relocation or loss of shelter) or economic displacement (loss of assets or
access to assets that leads to loss of income sources or other means of livelihood).
The project area represents the characteristics that of degraded vegetation and dry and
semiarid landscape. The project area does not have any threatened, endangered or
conservation concerned faunal species. The area does not make part of any significant
breeding, roosting or feeding habitats of important and endangered species.
Moreover, the project area does not fall in vicinity of any important wildlife hotspot in the region.
The project site does not fall in the eco-sensitive/fragile zone identified by the State/Central
Government agencies. The area does not fall in any of the critical wildlife habitats identified by
any agencies till date. Hence impact on ecology is not anticipated.
Public consultation was undertaken to give opportunity to the affected people to express their
views. The outcome of the consultation was positive. The expectation level with regard to
community and individual benefits from the proposed project included consistent power supply
as there is frequent shutdown of power, employment opportunities, improvement of roads and
economic development.
Few of the settlements were observed in the neighboring area of the identified WTGs. It is
recommended to IRL to consider alternate feasible sites which are located close to such
settlement, in order to ensure that there will be no hardships due to community health and
safety issues during the due course of implementation and long run of the project.
As Corporate Social Activities it is recommended to IRL to support the activities such as
development and improvement of the educational and medical facilities in the area.
Minor impacts are expected on environmental quality of the surrounding area. The proposed
project will lead to employment generation, which will have a positive impact on the socio
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economic environment. To the extent feasible, preference will be given to local population for
employment opportunities especially for unskilled activities. Proposed EMP will help in
mitigating the residual, social and environmental impacts.
Considering IFC principles, impacts have been assessed for relevant social and environmental
parameters. The negative impacts were found to be minimal in most of the cases.
Implementation of the mitigation measures and management plan would mitigate the negative
impacts. Based on this the project can be considered as Category B project.
Based on the above, it may be concluded that proposed project is eco-friendly and
environmentally sustainable in the long run. Proposed wind farm will not only help in reducing
the CO2 responsible for global warming but other gases and particulate emissions also, which
otherwise would be generated using conventional fossil fuel based power plants. Besides the
implementation of project will conserve, equivalent amount of fossil fuels and water as a natural
resource.
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CHAPTER II
INTRODUCTION
2.1 INTRODUCTION
India witnesses high intensity winds in various regions due to the topographical diversity
in India. Rajasthan is one of the States which is blessed with high wind energy potential.
Efforts have been made to utilize this natural source of energy available free of cost for
wind power generation.
Centre for Wind Energy Technology (C-WET) has recently declared estimated wind
power potential at height of 80 m (above ground level) in India as 1,02,788 MW. The
gross wind potential in the state of Rajasthan is estimated as 5050 MW (source: As per
revised estimate by CWET dated December 2011). As on 30 July, 2011 Wind installed
capacity in the State of Rajasthan is 1643 MW.
2.2 PROJECT PROPONENT
Inox Renewable Limited (IRL) is part of Gujarat Fluro chemicals limited (GFL) is the
promoter of the proposed wind power project.
Currently GFL has installed capacity of ~70 MW in wind energy sector. By the end of May
2012 it is expected increase to 180 MW where the wind farms will be spread across in the
states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
Present Proposal: IRL proposes to set up a 300 MW wind farm near Dangri Village,
Jaisalmer District, Rajasthan State. The wind farm consists of 150 WTGs each rated
capacity of 2000 kW. The proposed project will be operational by March 2013. This
includes 150 numbers of WTGs, access roads, transmission lines and substation.
2.3 THE PROJECT SITE
The proposed project site is located near Dangri village approximately 50 km (aerial
Distance) South East of Jaisalmer City of Rajasthan State. The proposed project site is
connected by road through National Highway NH -15. The nearest railway station is
Jaisalmer Railway station and nearest operational airport to Jaisalmer is Jodhpur Airport.
Figure II.1 indicates the location of the proposed project site with reference to India. The
proposed site is located between 26°26' 47.8"N & 26°37'33.3"N latitude and 71°17'
06.04"E & 71°34' 50.2"E longitude.
The WTGs are proposed to be located in the villages of Bhalabasti, Rajgarh, Baisanra,
Ola, Dangri, Malusar, Chhodiya, Ramsar, Laxmansar, Mahreri, Samel Nagar, Pabnasar,
Khodiyasar.
2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTIFICATION OF THE PROJECT
Wind energy projects are generally considered as green projects with insignificant impact
on the environment, which are reversible in nature and can be minimized by proper
Environmental management plan. As per MoEF EIA notification S.O.1533 dated 14th
September 2006 and its subsequent amendments, setting up of wind power project does
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not require prior environmental clearance from MoEF or State Department of
Environment.
Wind energy is clean, zero emission and eco-friendly source of energy. This will reduce
the emission of CO2, the major greenhouse gas and other emissions like SO2, NOx,
PM10, PM2.5. The proposed project will not generate any solid or liquid effluents and
thereby the chances of land pollution or pollution of surface or ground water resources
are insignificant.
There are no forest land acquisition involved and thereby no disturbance to wildlife
habitat, flora and fauna. As there are no National parks, Sanctuaries, Wetlands or any
other ecologically sensitive areas in the vicinity of the project site or for that matter,
endangered or threatened bird nesting /breeding places in the vicinity of the site and
hence the project is not expected to have any negative impact in so far as any of the
foregoing aspects are considered.
The wind turbines pertaining to the project are predominantly being developed on
revenue land. There is no physical or economic displacement anticipated in the proposed
project. Hence, there is no rehabilitation & resettlement or loss of livelihood issues
involved.
The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport which is currently not operational. This is situated
more than 50 km from the proposed Wind Farm site. This will not pose any impact on air
safety, if it becomes operational in future. Also, Jaisalmer Air force station is situated
more than 50 Km towards North West of the proposed wind farm site. No Air base
installations, radar stations or airports are located within 10 km of the project site and
hence impact on air safety is not envisaged.
The International Financial Corporation (IFC) is institution that have developed the
“Performance Standards” in order to ensure that the project being financed by them are
developed in a manner that is socially responsible and reflect sound environmental
management practices. In India, wind power projects are categorized as green projects
and categorized as having low impact.
The development, construction and operation of the Wind Power project at Dangri,
Rajasthan will have site-specific, but limited, impacts on the bio-physical and social
environment of the Project area which the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
(ESIA) studies undertaken has confirmed.
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Figure II.1
Location Map Showing the Project site
Proposed Dangri Wind Farm Site
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2.5 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY
a) Identify the social and environmental impacts due to the construction and operational phase of the wind project.
b) Review the regulatory framework that is relevant for the project including identifying the key environment and social legislations that get triggered by the project and their requirements.
c) Identify the significant social and environmental parameters & assess the baseline status of air, water, noise, soil, land, ecology, cultural heritage and socioeconomic aspects.
d) Environment and Social Impact Assessment in compliance with IFC performance standards
e) Social and environmental categorization of the project in accordance with IFC guidelines.
f) Developing Environmental Management Plan in accordance with applicable World Bank Group (WBG) Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) guidelines as applicable for the proposed Wind energy project
g) Preparation of Social and Environmental Impact Assessment Report
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CHAPTER III
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
3.1. ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
This section outlines the regulatory system for prevention and control of
environmental pollution and the pollution control standards applicable in India. In
1980, Government of India constituted Department of Environment for
coordinating programmes related to environment. Subsequently in 1985, full-
fledged Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) was constituted which is the
apex administrative body in the country for regulating and ensuring
environmental protection. The key responsibilities of the MoEF are as under:
a) Environmental, Policy planning
b) Ensure effective implementation of legislation
c) Pollution Monitoring and Control
d) Survey and Conservation of Natural Resources
e) Eco Development and Biosphere Reserve Programme
f) Management of Forests and Conservation and Wildlife
g) Environment Clearance for Industrial and Development Projects
h) Environmental Education, Awareness and Information
i) Co-ordination with concerned agencies at National and International
Levels
India‟s environmental regulatory framework is based on a system of shared
central government/state pollution control administration. Central Pollution control
board (CPCB) plays an advisory role to the Government and State Pollution
Control Boards (SPCB) in matters relating to the implementation and
enforcement of the Air, Water and Environmental Acts. In this sense, the CPCB
through various SPCBs is responsible for the enforcement and implementation of
pollution control legislation and discharge standards. In addition, the EIA review
committee formed by the EIA division consists of a representative from the
CPCB.
The SPCB is responsible for issuing consent to operate to all proposed industries
within the state. This is as per the requirements of the Water Act and Air Rules.
This consent identifies the pollutant discharge standards applicable to the
proposed industry.
The MoEF/State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority is responsible
for issuing environmental clearances for the certain categories of projects as
mentioned in MoEF notification SO1533 dated 14th Sept 06 and its subsequent
amendments till date. Wind energy projects are not listed in any category of the
MoEF notification SO 1533. So for this wind energy project, environmental
clearance is not required.
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3.1.1 THE ENVIRONMENT (PROTECTION) ACT, 1986
The Environment (Protection) Act is an umbrella act designed to provide a
framework for the coordination of central and state authorities established under
Water and Air Act. The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 is established by the
GOI to fulfill its commitment to protect and improve the human environment. It is
applicable to the entire country. From time to time the central government issues
notifications under the EPA Act 1986 for the protection of ecologically-sensitive
areas or issues guidelines for matters under the EPA.
It empowers the Central Government to take necessary measures for the
purpose of protecting and improving environmental quality and preventing,
controlling and abating environmental pollution. An important power of the
Central Government includes laying down standards for environmental quality
and emission/ discharge of environmental pollution from various sources. This
power defines procedures and establishes safeguards for handling of hazardous
substances, and establishes rules to regulate environmental pollution.
3.1.2 FOREST (CONSERVATION) RULES, 2003
These rules came into existence on 10th January 2003. Rules framed to carry
out the provisions of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. As per these rules,
every user agency, who wants to use any forest land for non-forest purposes
shall make his proposal in the appropriate Form appended to these rules, i.e.
Form „A‟ for proposals seeking first time approval under the Act and Form „B‟ for
proposals seeking renewal of leases where approval of the Central Government
under the Act. FC Rules, 2003 prescribe specific time limits for processing the
cases related with forest clearance.
However proposed land for the wind energy project is not falling under any
reserved forest.
3.1.3 EIA NOTIFICATION S.O 1533, DATED 14.09.2006
MoEF has stipulated new Environment Impact Assessment Notification of 14th
September 2006 (EIA 2006) replacing the EIA Notification of 27th January 1994
and its various amendments. EIA notification 2006 has further undergone
revisions in the year 2009 and 2011 with certain amendments.
All new projects or activities listed in the Schedule I of EIA notification 2006,
Expansion and modernization of existing projects and any change in product -
mix in an existing manufacturing shall require prior environmental clearance from
the concerned regulatory authority.
As per this notification the wind farm projects are not included in any of the
categorization listed in Schedule I.
Hence, set up of wind power project does not require environmental clearance
from MoEF or State Department of Environment and Forest.
3.1.4 THE WATER (PREVENTION & CONTROL OF POLLUTION) ACT, 1974 (WATER ACT)
This Act represented India‟s first attempts to comprehensively deal with
environmental issues. The purpose of this act is to prevent and control water
pollution and to maintain or restore the quality of water.
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In order to achieve its goals this act empowers the CPCB and SPCB and defines
their functions.
This Act requires industries, local bodies and agencies engaged in any trade to
obtain consent from the SPCB for discharge of effluent into water bodies. The
SPCBs have the authority to enforce this Act, if any projects discharge effluent in
water bodies, land or sea.
3.1.5 THE AIR (PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF POLLUTION) ACT, 1981
The purpose of this act is to prevent, and control air pollution including noise
pollution and preserve air quality.
In order to achieve its goals this act empowers the CPCB and SPCB and defines
their functions. An important function of the CPCB is to establish Environmental
standards.
This Act requires industries, local bodies and agencies engaged in any trade to
obtain consent from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) for discharge of
emissions into air. The SPCBs have the authority to enforce this Act.
Separate Noise regulations for DG set of various capacities were introduced in
2002 vide notification of MoEF of 17 May 2002 under the Environmental
(Protection) Second Amendment Rules 2002.
This required that all DG sets should be provided with exhaust muffler with
insertion loss of minimum 25 dB(A). All DG sets manufactured on or after 1 July
2003 have to comply with these regulations.
Wind energy projects involve construction activities like excavation, drilling,
concreting and access roads, which cause temporary fugitive dust emissions.
However, it may be noted that the operation of wind projects do not cause any
air, water and/or soil pollution.
3.1.6 WILD LIFE ACT 1972
The Government of India enacted Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972 with the
objective of effectively protecting the wild life of this country and to control
poaching, smuggling and illegal trade in wildlife and its derivatives. The Act was
amended in January 2003 and punishment and penalty for offences under the
Act have been made more stringent. The Ministry has proposed further
amendments in the law by introducing more rigid measures to strengthen the Act.
The objective is to provide protection to the listed endangered flora and fauna
and ecologically important protected areas.
3.2. SOCIAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
While all the environmental clearances are governed by one or the other
Act/policy/rule of the central or state government, a majority of social „regulations‟
remain untied to any law and are governed more by social obligations coming
under the realm of constitutional provisions of fundamental rights.
However, it may also be noted that the laws pertaining to environmental
clearances also have many aspects, which primarily affect the human being and
their social environment, and hence the consideration for social factors gets
included there. Taking the social regulations further, the constitution marks some
20
mandatory and some prohibitory regulations pertaining to the weaker and
vulnerable section of the society (women, children, Scheduled Caste/Scheduled
Tribes/Other Backward Class, tribal population etc.) that basically safeguards
their rights to a dignified living, by ensuring the minimums. For this the
constitution entrusts various responsibilities on the state government and also
delegates powers to the local bodies under the decentralized administration. The
decentralization empowers local bodies primarily in rural areas to put across their
concerns, raise their voice against injustice, plan and instrument their own
development.
The government also takes various steps to develop the backward and
vulnerable section of the society through various development schemes. To
ensure that the benefits of these schemes reach the right target and to make the
process transparent government has instituted Right to Information Act (RTI),
under which information on any aspect of institutional functioning (records,
contracts, plans, budgets, circulars, logbooks etc) can be sought by the general
citizen of the country.
3.2.1 LAND REQUIREMENT/ DIVERSION
Land acquisition in India is covered by a national law, Land Acquisition Act (LAA)
1894 and its subsequent amendments. The LAA allows for land acquisition in the
national interest to be carried out by the respective states, in accordance with its
provisions. The Act lays down procedures for acquisition of land, including
notification, payment for damages, hearing of objections, declaration of the
intended acquisition, enquiry into measurement, values and claims and award by
the competent authority and finally taking possession of the land. The key
features include:
Preliminary notification for land proposed for acquisition;
Clearing of objection within 30 days of the notification and the provision for
hearing of all objections;
Declaration of intended acquisition award;
Reference to court if award is not accepted and hearing in court;
Apportionment of compensation and dispute settlement regarding the
same;
Payment of compensation for land value, trees and structures including
30% solatium and 12% p.a. interest for delayed payment;
The wind farm would also require permission and consent from local panchayat,
relevant planning authority and private parties for expansion and strengthening of
existing village roads.
The land required for the proposed project fall under Government Revenue land.
3.2.2 RESETTLEMENT AND REHABILITATION
The proposed wind farm does not envisage any displacement of people or any
particular community. However, for any future reference it must be noted that:
No central law or Act governs resettlement & rehabilitation in India.
The National Policy (2003) is in the process of being amended again in
order to address the key issues that came out of the implementation of the
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2003 policy. It is more progressive in its approach. The key features of the
2006 policy are:
It includes displacement due to land acquisition;
The minimum number of people being displaced to trigger the
policy are 400 in plains, and 200 or more in the hills, tribal areas
and DDP blocks;
It is mandatory for the Requiring Body to prepare a Social Impact
Assessment (SIA);
SIAs shall go through a clearance process similar to the
Environmental Clearance process, and shall be linked to the EIA.
Public hearings shall include social impact issues and, where the
EC process does not require a Public Hearing, a separate hearing
for the SIA shall be held;
Draft resettlement and rehabilitation plans need to be discussed in
the gram sabha in rural areas and through public hearings in
urban and rural areas without gram sabhas; and
Provision of shares to the affected family as a part of the
rehabilitation grant, if the Requiring Body is a corporate
organization/company
The Indian Constitution dictates that resettlement and
rehabilitation is the responsibility of individual union states.
3.2.3 SCHEDULED TRIBE RELATED POLICIES AND LEGISLATIONS
3.2.3.1 CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS PROTECTING TRIBES AND EXTENDING SPECIAL STATUS
The Constitution of India identifies certain groups/communities as tribal groups
and lays out special provisions for such group with the objective of promoting and
safeguarding the social, educational and economic interests of the Schedules
Tribes. The President is empowered to specify, after consultations with the
Governor of a state “tribes or tribal communities” to be listed under the
Schedules tribe list. In conjunction with this certain areas have been declared as
“Scheduled Areas” in the constitution. Regulations are framed under the Fifth
schedule of the Constitution to prevent the exploitation of tribals by non-tribals
and alienation of agricultural land of tribals being passed on to non-tribals.
3.2.3.2 THE SCHEDULED TRIBES AND OTHER TRADITIONAL FOREST DWELLERS (RECOGNITION OF FOREST RIGHTS) ACT, 2006 AND FOREST RULES 2007
This recently promulgated act is to recognize and vest forest rights and
occupation in forest land in forest dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional
forest dwellers (TFD) who have been residing in such forests for generations but
whose rights could not be recorded. It also provides a framework for recording
forest rights and the nature of evidence required for such recognition and vesting
in respect to forest land. The rights included are:
rights to hold and live in forest land under individual or common occupation
for habitation or self cultivation for livelihood by STs /other TFD;
community rights such as those of non timber forest produce, grazing, fuel
wood etc
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rights of ownership, access to collect, use and dispose of minor forest
produce which has been traditionally collected within or outside village
boundaries;
other community rights of uses or entitlements such as fish and other
products of water bodies, grazing and traditional access to natural
resources of nomadic /pastoralist communities;
rights in or over disputed lands;
rights for conversion of Pattas or leases or grants issues by any local
authority or any State Government on forest land to titles;
rights of settlement and conversion of all forest villages, old habitation,
unsurveyed villages and other villages into revenue villages;
rights to protect, regenerate or conserve or manage any community forest
resource;
rights of access to biodiversity and community rights to intellectual property
and traditional knowledge;
any other traditional rights customarily enjoyed by STs /TFDs other than
hunting of wild animals and rights to in situ rehabilitation including
alternative land in cases where ST and TFDs have been illegally evicted or
displaced from forest.
The Gram sabhas and the panchayats have been accorded with powers to
decide upon matters of traditional and customary rights under the forest rules
and institutional mechanisms have been put in place at the district, state and
central level to decide upon community/ individual rights and ownerships.
There is no physical or economic displacement of any schedule tribe community
involved due to proposed project.
3.2.4 LABOUR LAWS
The construction and full-fledged operation of the proposed wind farm will involve
short term/long term contractual hiring of unskilled, semiskilled and skilled
labourers and some technical staff. This will trigger the legislations governing the
labour laws, wages and compensation, working condition and worker welfare etc.
Some of the key legislations and regulations that govern labour issues in India
are;
The Payment of Wages Act, 1936
The Minimum Wages Act, 1948
The Factories Act, 1948
Workmen's Compensation Act
The Contract Labour (Regulation & Abolition) Act, 1970
The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976
3.3 IFC PERFORMANCE STANDARDS 2012
IFC strives for positive development outcomes in the activities it supports in
developing countries. These activities includes
I. investment financed directly by IFC
23
II. investments implemented through financial intermediaries (FIs) or managed by IFC‟s Asset Management Company or any other IFC subsidiary, as well as investments funded in part or in whole by donors; and
III. advisory services.
IFC believes that an important component of achieving positive development
outcomes is the environmental and social sustainability of these activities, which
IFC pursues and expects to achieve through the application of this Policy on
Environmental and Social Sustainability (the Sustainability Policy or the Policy),
and a comprehensive set of environmental and social Performance Standards.
The Performance Standards consist of the following:
i. Performance Standard 1: Assessment and Management of
Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts
ii. Performance Standard 2: Labor and Working Conditions
iii. Performance Standard 3: Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention
iv. Performance Standard 4: Community Health, Safety, and
v. Performance Standard 5: Land Acquisition and Involuntary
Resettlement
vi. Performance Standard 6: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable
Management of Living Natural Resources
vii. Performance Standard 7: Indigenous Peoples
viii. Performance Standard 8: Cultural Heritage
By doing so, negative impacts of the project, if any, on affected ecosystems and
local communities are avoided wherever possible, and if these impacts are
unavoidable, they may be reduced, mitigated and/or compensated as
appropriate.
24
CHAPTER IV
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
4.1 INTRODUCTION
IRL proposes to set up a 300 MW wind farm near Dangri Village, Jaisalmer District, Rajasthan State. The wind farm consists of 150 WTGs each rated capacity of 2000 kW. The proposed project is scheduled to commission by March 2013, which includes 150 numbers of WTGs, access roads, transmission lines and substation.
4.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT DEVELOPMENT
The proposed wind energy development comprise of construction and operation
of 150 wind turbines, mounted at an operating (hub) height of 80m together with
associated infrastructure, including foundations, access roads, connection
cables, substations (including control room), transmission line and temporary
storage yard. Arial view of approximate site boundary is shown in the Figure
IV.1.
4.2.1 Land requirement
The proposed wind farm project will be developed in the Bhalabasti, Rajgarh,
Baisanra, Ola, Dangri, Malusar, Chhodiya, Ramsar, Laxmansar, Mahreri, Samel
Nagar, Pabnasar, Khodiyasar. The project will be developed over revenue land.
Wind Turbines locations are spread in parcels of land over an area of 20 km2. In
the present report the study area considered is the area within the extreme Wind
Turbine locations of the proposed project and the peripheral area of 1 km
distance which covers an area of about 20 km2 as shown in Figure IV.1.
However the project area involves only the parcel of land where the WTGs are
sited, land required for substation and access roads.
IRL has identified 210 locations, out of which 150 locations will be finalized
during the detailed engineering. The identified geographic co-ordinate location of
210 Wind Turbines is listed in Appendix -1. The micrositing diagram is given in
the Appendix -2.
At present IRL is in possession of 32 locations (64 MW) where project
development activity (as mentioned in the next paragraph is going on and other
118 locations to complete 300 MW are identified and are currently under
acquisition. The identified parcels of wind turbine sites are not used for grazing,
farming or planting, nor there exist settlements. Informal settlers are found in the
neighboring area of few of the identified wind turbine locations. These settlers are
from local villages that have moved to these areas for practicing farming and
livestock rearing. In addition to above, the identified settlements are not coming
under land to be acquired for this project. So resettlement and rehabilitation is
not expected in this project.
25
Figure IV.1
Aerial View showing the approximate boundary of the project site
26
4.2.2 DETAILED PROJECT ACTIVITIES
Following development activities will be carried out for 300 MW wind power
project:
Setting up of 150 wind turbine generator units
Concrete foundations (approximately 15m x 15m x 2m) to support the
turbine towers.
Aboveground electrical distribution cabling between turbines
One substation on the site to receive generated power (approximate size
160m x 100m) which will be initially developed for 100 MW capacity and
will be upgraded for 300 MW capacity
Power lines from WTGs to 220 KV pooling substation (Approximate
length per turbine is 1 km)
An access road to the site from the main road/s within the area
Internal access road to each wind turbine to link the turbines on site
(approximately 3-6 m in width); and
A Storage yard for storage and maintenance.
4.2.3.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Wind energy development project of 300 MW will take 10 months depending on
weather and ground conditions encountered. Construction and commissioning
schedule for completion of 300 MW capacities is shown in Figure IV.2. and is
expected to be commissioned by March 2013.
27
Figure IV.2
Construction and Commissioning Schedule for 300 MW Capacity which is
expected to be commissioned by March 2013
The activities during construction phase include:
i. Undertake site investigations to determine foundations conditions;
ii. Carry out road improvements along the agreed off-site access route to
the site as required;
iii. Make improvements to access route entrance;
iv. Prepare and establish temporary construction compound;
v. Construct access road, crane hard standings, field gates and temporary
fencing;
vi. Excavate and construct the turbine foundations;
vii. Construct the substation and grid connection;
viii. Erect the turbines;
ix. Commissioning the turbines; and
x. Carry out land reinstatement, remove temporary accommodation,
reinstate temporary construction compound and crane hard standings
and clear the site.
For an ideal size of approximate 100 MW wind farm development around 100-
125 skilled & 450-500 unskilled manpower is required.During the construction
works there will be a varied man power (skilled and unskilled) of between 50-60
people on site at any one time. In the category of unskilled man power 40 to 50%
will be outsourced from local contractors or nearby villages where possible.
28
Since the proposed 300 MW wind development will be developed in the phases
over a period of 10 months, the manpower for 300 MW will not vary as specified
above.
Vehicle movements will vary; involve the use of specialized heavy transport
trailer trucks, heavy lifting cranes. However, the following is an indication of the
material that will be used and the types/numbers of vehicles likely to be required:
Each turbine would be delivered on approximately ten vehicles
comprising the blades (3 vehicles), the hub (1 vehicle), the nacelle (1
vehicle), the tower (4 vehicles for 4 steel tower sections) and electrical &
other accessories (1 Vehicle).
Each turbine foundation would comprise approximately 360 m3 of
concrete, necessitating between 60 deliveries from batch plant to
individual WTGs (based on 6 m3 batches of concrete). Up to 250-300 m3
of concrete will be required for the substation foundation, necessitating a
further 40 to 50 concrete deliveries.
The reinforcing for each foundation would comprise approximately 90-100
tonnes of steel bar which would be delivered on 4-5 vehicles (based on
20 tonne loads).
All stone for access roads is likely to be produced on-site from foundation
excavation and borrow pits avoiding significant numbers of vehicles
movement on public highway.
The erection of each turbine and tower will require maximum two mobile
cranes even if the activity will be carried out as a continuous operation.
Construction plants such as excavators, bulldozers etc., would be
transported to and from site on low loaders.
The likely number of vehicles required per month during the construction phase
based on the following assumption is given in the Table IV.1.
Assumptions:
Assuming 16 Turbines will be erected per month.
At a time 6 turbines will be under construction hence 6
construction equipments will be there at site at time
Construction machinery and erection equipments will be used
from site to site
Generally, 1 crane is required which consists of package of 50MT,
100MT and 450MT cranes.
29
Table IV.1
Vehicular Requirement on Monthly Basis
Activity Type of
Vehicle
Number per
Month
Route or
Path
A. Supply of Material
Supply of WTG Component
at Storage Yard of Project
Site
Truck/
Trailers
10 X 16 = 160 From National
Highway and
Local road to
Storage Yard
1 and 1
Material required for Civil
Works
Truck/
Trailers
64 X 16 = 1024 From National
Highway and
Local road to
Batching
Plant 1 and 2
B. WTGs Foundation and Other Civil Activities
Foundation of WTGs and
Related Civil Works
Excavator 6 From
Batching
Plant to
Individual
WTGS
Bull Dozer 6
Concrete
Mixer
6
C. Erection of WTGs
Transfer of Material from
Storage yard to WTGs
locations
Trailers 6 From storage
yard to WTGs
Locations
Erection of WTGs 50T, 100T,
200T & 450T
Crane
6 From storage
yard to WTGs
locations
About 1184 number of vehicles per month would be required for material
transfer and these vehicles will be using the route through national
highway and local roads upto storage yard. Figure IV.3 represents routes
likely to be used at the project site for transportation of the material upto
the storage yard/ batch reactor.
While from storage yard and batching plant to WTGs locations, total
number vehicles per month would be around 84 numbers. Additional
traffic is required for the delivery of tools, temporary site huts etc. and
vehicles that would be on site at any one time being used by site
personnel. In total additional site traffic would require no more than 100
vehicles per month from storage yard to WTGs locations.
30
Figure IV.3
Project Site Connectivity by Road
4.2.3.2 OPERATION PHASE
As the proposed wind farm project will be developed over government revenue
land on lease, IRL would have rights for access etc, in order to carry out
operation and maintenance works. Permanent fencing of the complete
development, individual turbines, access roads etc would not be required.
A wind energy development operates without the need for round the clock on-
site supervision. However, during the normal working week a team of 8 to 10 site
technicians, travelling by van, will nearly always be on-site to carry out
preventive and corrective maintenance works.
Most preventive and corrective maintenance work would not normally involve the
use of any large machinery or specialist vehicles. However, in some
circumstances, cranes and other specialist may need to visit the site when, for
example, large turbine components need to be repaired or replaced.
4.2.3.3 DECOMMISSIONING PHASE
Generally, The lifecycle of the wind power project is expected from 20-25 years
and may be longer. At the end of the lifecycle, further advances in technology
may justify the replacement of critical components to modernize or
decommissioned.
31
De-commissioning of the wind farm would require de-installation and removal of
all physical components and machinery from the site. The access roads would
remain, if the landowners so desired. The gathering-up lines, sub-station and
control building would be removed. Concrete turbine pads and building
foundations will be removed to a reasonalbe depth and re-claimed, unless the
landowner wished to use them as they are. The equipment used for the de-
construction would be essentially the same as for the construction e.g. heavy
lifting and transport equipment, earth moving equipment etc.
4.2.4 EQUIPMENT/ PROJECT COST
The estimated project cost is approximately for the proposed wind farm project is
approximately USD 342 million.
4.2.5 PROJECT TECHNOLOGY
4.2.5.1 Wind Turbine Generator (WTG)
The technical specifications of the WT 2000 DF are as follows:
Rated power: 2000kW
Cut- in wind speed: 3 m/s
Rated wind speed: 11.5 m/s
Cut-out wind speed: 20 m/s
Survival Wind speed: 52.5 m/s
Hub Height: 80 m
Rotor Speed: 15.9 RPM
Blade material: Epoxy Glass fibre
4.2.5.2 Technology
Rotor Blades: IWL WT 2000 DF consists of a three bladed upwind rotor of 93 m
diameter. Its rotational speed is controlled by blade pitch control. Pitch control
helps in lowering the peak loads during high windy conditions.
Asynchronous Generator: The wind turbines are equipped with a double fed
induction generator.
Drive System: The patented integral drive train incorporates the rotor shaft and
gearbox as a single unit. The gear box has forced lubrication system.
Active pitch: WT 2000 DF active pitch is driven by three separate pitch drives for
each of the rotor blades. Active pitch system is used to change the blade angle
so that the angle of attack changes and the aerodynamic efficiency is altered
depending on the speed of wind. In the event of a fault, the pitch motor is
powered by and ultra capacitor system and can therefore still control the pitch
and bring the WTG to safety.
Safety system:
Some of the Safety system designed for the WTGs includes
32
Aerodynamic braking using pitch system to protect the WTG from
adverse wind forces
A mechanical disc brake is mounted on the high speed shaft of the gear
box and hydraulically operated using intelligent braking system which
controls the braking sequence.
The rotor lock drive at the input shaft enables the drive train to be
mechanically locked during maintenance.
Control and Communication: The WTG status can be monitored and checked on
the display in the nacelle cabinet. Advanced remote and optical communication is
used for transmitting the data to central monitoring points.
The view of IWL WT 2000 DF make wind turbine generator is shown in the Figure IV.4
Figure IV.4
View of IWL WT 2000 DF Wind Turbine Generator
4.2.6 POWER EVACUATION
The planned capacity of the proposed project is 300 MW from 150 number of
IWL WTG with rated capacity of 2000 kW each.
Power Generated from Dangri will be evacuated from Akal GSS operated &
maintained by RVPNL. Akal GSS is around 47 KM far from pooling Substation
built at site. Company has already received NOC from RVPNL for power
evacuation. Pooling station will be initially developed for 100 MW capacity and
will be upgraded for 300 MW capacity as the project progress. Detailed power
evacuation is shown in Figure IV.5.
33
Figure IV.5
4.3 CDM ARRANGMENT
The Kyoto Protocol to mitigate climate change has resulted in creating an
International carbon market which has grown strongly over the years. India, as
an Annexure 2 signatory of the Kyoto Protocol, is entitled to benefit from the
Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). This project may be eligible to achieve
accreditation and receive Carbon Emission Reduction Certifications (CERs). The
project is expected to satisfy the additionality requirement, which may qualify as
an eligible project for CDM purposes. However, this additionality is required to be
proven through an appropriate study and validated by designated validators.
Once additionally of the project is proven the same may receive approval from
CDM authority for registration with UNFCC and issuing CERs.
34
CHAPTER V
BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION
5.1. INTRODUCTION
In order to predict anticipated impacts due to proposed wind energy project
during construction and operational phase, it is necessary to obtain baseline
information of the environment as it exists, which would serve as a datum. The
interaction of baseline environment and the anticipated impacts are the basis for
developing the environmental management plan relating to the activities of the
proposed project.
5.2. BASELINE DATA
The baseline environmental and social quality status was assessed during March
2012 through field studies within the study area. The wind turbine generators are
spread in parcels of land over a large area. For baseline collection, the area
within the extreme Wind Turbine location of the proposed project and peripheral
area of 1 km distance is considered as study area. A study area is approximately
20 km2 which covers Dangri, Rajgarh, Mehreri, Chhodiya, Laxmansar, Ramsar,
Bhasana and Bahla Basti villages.
A general reconnaissance survey of the study area was done before the
selection of sites for environmental monitoring. Monitoring sites were considered
based on the aspects such as accessibility to the sampling sites, topography and
terrain of the study area, major habitation, population, historically important
places and location of sensitive areas. Some of the recently generated data from
secondary sources were also collected and used as baseline information.
The baseline status of environmental quality represents the background
environmental conditions of various environmental components such as
meteorology, air, noise, soil, water, biological and socioeconomic status of the
study area during study period. The baseline status serves as a basis for
identification and prediction of the impact. Satellite view of the project site is
shown in Figure V.1.
5.3. REGIONAL CLIMATOLOGY
Jaisalmer is situated amid Thar Desert and experience less rainfall though
western disturbance during the monsoon. Jaisalmer have extreme temperature
range. It has very low temperature at night and typical of arid desert climate. The
air contains little moisture & therefore holds little heat. As soon as the sun sets
the area cools quickly, cloudless skies increase the release of heat at night.
The month of May is the hottest with a mean daily maximum temperature of
41.5oC and a mean daily minimum temperature of 25.2 oC. January is the coldest
month of the year with a mean daily maximum temperature of 23.6 oC and a
mean daily minimum temperature of 7.1 oC.
35
The nearest meteorological station is in Jaisalmer, which is approximately 50 km
away from the nearest WTG location. Yearly wind-rose diagram based on long
term climatologically table by IMD is shown in Figure V.2
The summary of the micro-meteorology of the region is given below in Table V.1.
Table V.1.
Summary of the Annual Micrometeorology of the Region
S. No.
Parameter Annual
1 Temperature Max. 33.9 ˚C
2 Temperature Min. 18.6 ˚C
3 Relative Humidity 60%
4 Annual Rainfall 200.1 mm
5 Annually wind speed 12.6 kmph
Source: IMD Climatalogical Table (1950 -1980), GOI
5.4. SITE CLIMATOLOGY
Meteorological station was established at the proposed project site near Dangri
village, Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan in March 2012 to record various
meteorological parameters. Meteorological data was recorded on a hourly basis
to understand wind pattern, temperature variation and relative humidity.
Percentage frequencies of wind in 8 directions have been computed from the
recorded data and windrose was plotted for a study period from19th March to 26th
March 2012. The windrose diagram is given in Figure V.3
5.4.1 WIND PATTERN DURING STUDY PERIOD
The predominant wind directions during the study period was from the South to
North accounting to about 18% of the total time with calm wind less than 2.0
m/sec. The Figure V.3 represents the wind pattern of the study area based on
the data collected from 19th March to 26th March 2012. Maximum and minimum
wind speeds, recorded during the study period were 7.78 m/sec and 1.61 m/sec
respectively.
The nearest metrological station is in Jaisalmer which is nearly 50 km away from
the site. Yearly wind rose diagram based on long term climatologically table by
IMD is shown in Figure V.2 and a site specific wind rose is illustrated in Figure
V.3.
36
Figure V.1
Satellite view of the Project Site
37
Figure V.2
Yearly (20 years) Wind Rose Diagram for Jaisalmer IMD Station
38
Figure V.3
Wind Rose Diagram of Project Site for March 2012
5.4.2 HOURLY AVERAGE TEMPERATURE VARIATION DURING STUDY PERIOD
The recorded data during the study indicates that temperature at site varies between maximum of 40.2°C and a minimum of 24.5°C. Hourly temperature variation at project site is shown in Figure V.4.
Figure V.4
Hourly Temperature Variation at Project Site
39
5.4.3 HOURLY AVERAGE RELATIVE HUMIDITY DURING STUDY PERIOD
Recorded data during the study indicates that the relative humidity at site varies between a maximum of 54.5% and a minimum of 10.2%. Hourly RH variations during study period at the project site are shown in Figure V.5.
Figure V.5
Hourly Humidity Variation at Project Site
There was no rainfall recorded during the study period. Summary of meteorological data collected from project site is shown in Table V.2.
Table V.2
Summary of Meteorological Data at the Project Site
Sr. No.
Parameter Max. Value Average Min. Value
1 Wind speed, m/sec 7.78 1.61 0
2 Temperature, C 40.2 31.91 24.5
3 Relative Humidity, %
54.5 28.2 10.2
5.5. AMBIENT AIR ENVIRONMENT
Reconnaissance survey of the study area was carried out for selection of
sampling locations for Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (AAQMS).
Sampling sites for ambient air, noise, soil and water quality monitoring stations
was finalized based on reconnaissance survey of the study area.
The existing Ambient Air Quality (AAQ) status has been monitored at four
locations for PM10, PM2.5, SO2, NOX and CO. Location map of monitoring stations
is shown in Appendix 3. Pre-calibrated high volume respirable dust samplers
have been used for monitoring of the existing AAQ status.
The selection of monitoring location, analysis and methodology used for the
monitoring was based on the procedures recommended by the National Ambient
Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) issued by CPCB / MoEF.
40
Ambient air quality was monitored at four representative locations. Results of the Ambient air quality for the period of 19th March 2012 to 25th March 2012 are given in Appendix-1. Summary of the ambient air quality data is shown in Table V.3.
Table V.3.
Summary of Ambient Air Quality Data
Location Date of
sampling
Ground Level Concentration (µg/m3)
PM10 PM2.5 SO2 NOx CO
Dangri Minimum 97 50 4.5 23.4 BDL
Maximum 115 63 5.8 28.1 BDL
Bhainsra Minimum 122 67 5.6 26.8 BDL
Maximum 134 71 6.1 30.2 BDL
Lakhmona Minimum 80 42 4.0 20.5 BDL
Maximum 96 54 4.2 23.6 BDL
Lakhmanser Minimum 64 37 4.0 21.4 BDL
Maximum 94 53 4.0 23.6 BDL
The analysis results shows that all the parameters are well within the NAAQ
standards for residential and rural areas. Out of the four villages, the highest
values for PM10 and PM2.5 are reported in Fategar village. The National Ambient
Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) prescribed by Central Pollution Control Borad
(CPCB) is given in Appendix 4.
5.6. NOISE ENVIRONMENT
In order to assess the noise levels, monitoring was carried out at four different
locations. Location map of monitoring stations is shown in Appendix 5. Sound
levels were recorded for 24 hours for the duration of fifteen minutes at hourly
intervals using precision noise level meter (LUTRON, Model SL 4001). Noise
levels recorded during the study period is given in Appendix-6.
Data recorded at each station were computed for equivalent noise levels for day-
equivalent and night-equivalent as shown in Table V.4.
Table V.4.
Equivalent Noise Levels (Leq) of the Study Area
S.No
Code of Noise
Monitoring Station
dB(A)
Location Day-
Equivalent Night-
Equivalent Day- Night Equivalent
1 N 1 Dangri 46.2 37.8 46.2
2 N 2 Bhainsra 46.8 39.0 46.8
3 N 3 Lakhmona 45.5 38.3 45.5
4 N 4 Lakhmanser 47.6 40.6 47.6
The monitored noise levels at all locations are found to be within the prescribed
limit of National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) in respect of noise. The
41
NAAQS and IFC guidelines in respect of noise is given in Appendix 7 and
Appendix 8 respectively.
5.7. WATER ENVIRONMENT
Four ground water samples were collected for assessment of the physico-
chemical and bacteriological characteristics. Location map of monitoring stations
is shown in Appendix 9. Methodologies adopted for sampling and analysis were
according to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) /American Public Health
Association (APHA) methods. Monitored ground water parameters are given in
the Appendix 10 and summmarised in th Table V.5.
Table V.5.
Ground Water Quality of the Study Area
pH 6.78- 7.86
Alkalinity (mg/l) 247.52-714
Chlorides (mg/l) 270-1359.58
Total dissolved solids (mg/l) 940-3020
Fluoride (mg/l) <0.1
Hardness (mg/l) 198-986.04
Total Coliform (MPN/100ml) 30-500
Iron (mg/l) 0.1-0.83
Other Heavy metal (mg/l) <0.5
Ground water quality is compared with the Drinking Water Standard of IS: 10500 and it is found that most of the water quality parameter are exceeding the permissible limits. Also the total coliform is found to be high at one location i.e. Laxmansar Village. This may be due to discharge of domestic sewage from the nearby area. There was no surface water observed in the study area.
5.8. LAND USE PATTERN OF STUDY AREA
Land use utilization pattern in study area i.e. surrounding villages as mentioned
earlier is shown in Table V.6.
Table V.6
Landuse Pattern of the study area
Sr.No. Land Class Area (ha)
1 Total Irrigated Area 16
2 Unirrigated Area 6821.07
3 Forest 67
4 Culturable waste (including gauchar and groves) 9158.72
5 Area not available for cultivation 2148
Total Land 18210.31 Source: Census data 2001
The statistical figures indicate 50 % of the area is culturable waste land (land
which has potential to cultivate, however these lands are not taken up for
cultivation. These lands are usually either fallow or covered with shrubs), 12% of
42
land is not available for cultivation and nearly 38% of land is unirrigated area.
Forest land and Irrigated area is found to be very less in this region. The
percentage wise break up of landuse pattern is given in Figure V.6.
Figure V.6
Landuse Pattern of study area
Source: Census data 2001
5.9. SOIL QUALITY
To assess the existing soil quality of the surrounding area, four representative
soil samples were collected from various locations within the surrounding areas
of the project site. Location map of monitoring stations is shown in Appendix 11.
Standard procedures were followed for sampling and analysis. Samples collected
were also analysed for physico-chemical characteristics. Results of the soil
quality are given in Appendix-12. Summary of the soil quality data is given in
Table V.7.
Table V.7.
Summary of the Soil Quality data of the study area
Parameter Minimum Maximum
Sand, % 69.5 94.4
Silt, % 1.4 28.5
Clay, % 2 4.2
Nitrogen, mg/gm 76.83 109.76
Phosphorus, mg/gm <4 7.12
43
Parameter Minimum Maximum
Potassium, mg/gm 70 300
pH (1:2.5 suspension at 270C) 8.47 9.69
5.10. HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL PLACES
As per Archeological survey of India, and reconnaisance survey conducted,
there are no historical places, protected, conserved monuments within 10 km
radius of the project site.
5.11. SOCIO ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
A brief survey of the study area was conducted site reconnaissance survey to
address socio-economic conditions. Primary Census Abstract data of 2001 have
been used to develop the baseline socio-economic condition of the study area.
As mentioned earlier, there is no settlement in the project site identified for wind
energy development. During site visit, few informal settlers living in the
neighbouring of the identified WTG site location was observed. It was
understood during the consultation with these informal settlers that the parcel of
land identified for setting up of WTGs are not acquired or used by these informal
settlers. It was also understood that they are staying there from last 10-15 years
for farming and livestock rearing. However, they have also mentioned that
normally they have home in nearby villages and are staying for temporary basis
only. It was also found out that they are counted in demography pattern of
villages where they are permanently staying.
A social profile has been developed for the villages of Dangri, Rajgarh, Mehreri,
chhodiya, Laxmansar, and Bahla Basti which are located in the vicinity of the
proposed wind farm area and hence considered as the project influence area.
Total population of the surrounding area of the project site as per Census 2001 is
4982 with a sex ratio of 806 no. of females per 1000 males. Details of the
population in each Villages of study area is given in Appendix-13. Summary of
the population are given below in Table.V.8.
Table V.8
Summary of the Population for Study Area
Number of Households 810
Total population 4982
Male Population 2759
Female Population 2223
0-6 Age Group Persons 1204
Scheduled Caste Persons 417
Scheduled Tribe Persons 560
Source : Census 2001
44
5.11.1 LITERACY LEVEL AND EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
As per census data 2001, the overall literacy rate in the study area is found to be
37%. The male literacy rate is found to be higher than the female literacy rate in
the study area. Graphical representation of literacy pattern is shown in Figure
V.7 below. Details of population and literacy level in the study area are given in
Appendix-14.
Figure V.7
Literacy Level of the Surrounding Area
Source: Census 2001 data
As per census data 2001, all the villages have primary school facility. Most of the
villages of study area have middle school facility within 10 km distance except for
Chhodiya Village.
5.11.2 AMENITIES
All villages in the vicinity of the study area were observed to have drinking water
facilities, in the form of wells, tanks, tubewells and hand pumps.
All villages are well connected by local roads. Approach road in most of the
villages are either by mud roads or by foot paths. Few of the villages also have
paved roads facility.
Medical facilities are poor in these villages. To avail the medical facilities villagers
have to go beyond 10 km distance. One Primary health sub centre is available in
Dangri village.
5.11.3 OCCUPATIONAL STRUCTURE
Only 45.76 % of the total population come under the working category which
include both main workers and marginal workers. Among the Main workers, 57 %
of the population are cultivators, 1 % of the population are agricultural laborers, 8
% of population are involved in the household industry and 34 % of population
are involved in other activities. Details of occupational structure of the villages
within the surrounding of the project area are given in Appendix-15.
45
Figure V.8
Occupational Structure
Majority of the population is involved in the agricultural activities which is major
source of income.
5.11.4 LIVESTOCK
The livestock population comprises mainly of cattle, sheep, goats, etc. Figure
V.9 shows a typical views of the livestock found in the study area. However, none
of the parcel of land identified for WTGs was used for grazing nor vegetation
was observed during site visit.
Figure V.9
Livestock Population in the Surrounding Area
5.12. BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT
A reconnaissance survey of the study area was carried out during the study
period to establish the existing baseline ecological/ biological condition of the
study area. Secondary information about flora and fauna were also collected.
46
5.12.1 FLORA OF THE STUDY AREA
Data were collected on flora of the study area (20 km2). A total of 30 quadrates of
10 x 10 m2 were laid randomly in the study area. All the plant species present in
the quadrates were identified and recorded. The collected data was then
systematically analyzed to produce information on following parameters of flora:
1) species inventory in the project area and
2) species present in different life forms (i.e. grass, herb, shrub, tree).
The checklist of the vegetation in the project area are mentioned in Table V.9
Table V.9
Inventory of Flora in the Study area
No Species Life Form
1 Citrullus colocynthis Climber
2 Citrullus lanatus Climber
3 Coccinia grandis Climber
4 Cocculus pendulus Climber
5 Cucumis sp. Climber
6 Momordica dioica Climber
7 Mukia maderaspatana Climber
8 Pergularia daemia Climber
1 Aristida funiculata Grass
2 Blepharis sindica Grass
3 Cenchrus biflorus Grass
4 Cenchrus ciliaris Grass
5 Cenchrus prieurii Grass
6 Cenchrus setigerus Grass
7 Dactyloctenium aegyptium Grass
8 Dactyloctenium Scindicum Grass
9 Eleusine compressa Grass
10 Eragrostis ciliaris Grass
11 Lasiurus sindicus Grass
12 Maytenus emarginatus Grass
13 Melanocenchris jaquemontii Grass
14 Oropetium thomaeum Grass
15 Tragus roxburghii Grass
16 Aristida adescensionis Grass
17 Sorghum halepense Grass
18 Saccharum spontaneum Grass
1 Aerva javanica Herb
2 Aerva tomentosa Herb
47
No Species Life Form
3 Argemone mexicana Herb
4 Boerhavia diffusa Herb
5 Convolvulus microphyllous Herb
6 Crotolaria burhia Herb
7 Echinops echinatus Herb
8 Euphorbia granulata Herb
9 Euphorbia prostrata Herb
10 Farsetia hamiltonii Herb
11 Heliotropium rariflorum Herb
12 Indigofera cordifolia Herb
13 Indigofera linifolia Herb
14 Indigofera linnaei Herb
15 Lycium barbarum Herb
16 Tephrosia purpurea Herb
17 Tephrosia falciformis Herb
18 Tribulus rajasthanensis Herb
19 Tribulus terrestris Herb
1 Anogeissus pendula Shrub
2 Asparagus racemosus Shrub
3 Balanites aegyptiaca Shrub
4 Calligonum polygonoides Shrub
5 Calotropis procera Shrub
6 Capparis decidua Shrub
7 Carissa carandus Shrub
8 Clerodendrum multiflorum Shrub
9 Commiphora wightii Shrub
10 Euphorbia caudicifolia Shrub
11 Leptadenia pyrotechnica Shrub
12 Mimosa hamata Shrub
13 Simmondsia chinensis Shrub
1 Acacia Jacquemontii Tree
2 Acacia leucophloea Tree
3 Acacia senegal Tree
4 Acacia tortilis Tree
5 Albizia lebbeck Tree
6 Azadirachta indica Tree
7 Balanites roxburghii Tree
8 Prosopis cineraria Tree
9 Salvadora oleoides Tree
48
No Species Life Form
10 Salvadora persica Tree
11 Tecomella undulata Tree
Figure V.10
Vegetation of the Study Area
5.12.2 FAUNA OF THE STUDY AREA
Data were collected on fauna within project area boundaries. Inventory of fauna
in the study area is given in the Table V.9.
Reptiles: A walkthrough study was carried out to identify various reptiles and
their presence i.e. lizards, snakes etc. in the study areas. This was mainly
prepared through interview survey of the local people.
Birds: Birds, occupying higher trophic levels in the ecosystems, respond quickly
to the changes in the habitats and therefore serve as one of the best indicators
for evaluating the status of the eco-system. Baseline information was collected
on the occurrence and distribution of avian species and information on flight
directions and passage rates of birds through the project area. Data collected
during the field visit and information gathered from the secondary literature was
used for generating baseline status of birds for project area. Baseline status of
birds in the project area is detailed in the Appendix 16.
Mammals: Like birds, mammals are also occupying higher trophic levels in many
ecosystems and respond quickly to the changes in their habitats therefore, serve
as best indicators of the ecosystem health. Since the presence of mammalian
species is low affecting probability of their sightings, in the study area, it was
difficult to estimate their population using line transect method. More importantly,
it was difficult to accommodate the sightings of nocturnal and diurnal animals in
the study. Therefore, indices of presences and absence using indirect evidences
49
and signs such as footprints, dens, droppings, diggings, scrap marks, etc. is
considered in the project area.
The sites where likelihood or presence of animals such as shady trees,
waterholes, dense and undisturbed bushes etc. were surveyed intensively during
the survey in the study area. For faunal inventory, both direct sightings and
indirect evidences (like dung, scats, pellets, foot prints, nests, dens etc.) were
accounted for.
Table V.10
Inventory of fauna in the Study area
S. No.
Name of Species Evidence Type
Conservation Status as per
IWPA-1972 (Schedule I to
VI)
Conservation
Status as per IUCN
Scientific Name Common Name
Mammals
1 Herpestes edwardsi Common mongoose Seen Schedule-II Least Concern
2 Lepus nigricollis Indian Hare Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
3 Canis aureus Indian Jackal Foot Prints Schedule-II Least Concern
4 Felis chaus Jungle cat Foot Prints Schedule-II Least Concern
5 Boselaphus tragocamelus Nilgai Seen Schedule-III
Least Concern
6 Sus scrofa Wild Pig Seen Schedule-III Least Concern
7 Rhinopoma microphyllum
Greater Mouse-tailed Bat Literature Schedule-III
Least Concern
8 Rhinopoma hardwickii Lesser Mouse-tailed Bat Literature Schedule-III Least Concern
9 Hemiechinus auritus Long eared Hedgehog Seen Schedule-III Least Concern
10 Gazella bennettii Chinkara Seen Schedule-I Least Concern
Reptiles
1 Echis carinatus Saw scaled Viper Interview Schedule-III Least Concern
2 Naja naja Indian Cobra Interview Schedule-II Least Concern
3 Bungarus caeruleus Common Krait Interview Schedule-III Least Concern
4 Eryx johni John Sand Boa Interview Schedule-III Least Concern
5 Eryx conicus Common Sand Boa Interview Schedule-III Least Concern
6 Ptyas mucosus Rat Snake Interview Schedule-II Least Concern
7 Natrix piscator Cheakered Keelback Interview Schedule-II Least Concern
8 Calotes versicolor Garden Lizard Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
9 Agama minor Short tailed Agama Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
50
S. No.
Name of Species Evidence Type
Conservation Status as per
IWPA-1972 (Schedule I to
VI)
Conservation
Status as per IUCN
Scientific Name Common Name
10 Mubuya carinata Common Skink Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
11 Varanus bengalensis Monitor Lizard Interview Schedule-IV Least Concern
12 Vulpes vulpes Red Fox Interview Schedule-IV Least Concern
13 Uromastyx hardwickii. Spiny-tailed Lizard Interview Schedule-IV Least Concern
Birds
1 Accipiter badius Shikra Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
2 Acridotheres tristis Common myna Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
3 Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
4 Aegithina tiphia Common Iora Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
5 Ammomanes phoenicurus Rufus tailed lark Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
6 Anthus campestris Tawny Pipit Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
7 Anthus similis Long-billed Pipit Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
8 Apus affinis House Swift Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
9 Aquila nipalensis Steppe Eagle Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
10 Aquila rapax Tawny Eagle Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
11 Athene brama Spotted Owlet Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
12 Bulbulcus ibis Cattle egret Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
13 Burhinus oedicnemus Eurasian Thick-knee Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
14 Butastur teesa White-eyed Buzzard Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
15 Buteo rufinus Long-Legged Buzzard Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
16 Calandrella brachydactyla Greater Short-toed lark Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
17 Caprimulgus europaeus Eurasian Nightjar Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
18 Centropus sinensis Greater Coucal Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
19 Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
20 Circus pygargus Montagu's Harrier Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
21 Columba livia Blue rock pigeon Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
22 Copsychus saularis Oriental magpie Seen Schedule-IV Least
51
S. No.
Name of Species Evidence Type
Conservation Status as per
IWPA-1972 (Schedule I to
VI)
Conservation
Status as per IUCN
Scientific Name Common Name
robin Concern
23 Coracias benghalensis Indian Roller Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
24 Coracias garrulus European Roller Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
25 Corax corax subcorax Common Raven Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
26 Corvus splendens House crow Seen Schedule-V Least Concern
27 Dicrurus macrocercus Black drongo Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
28 Eremopterix griseus) Ashy Crowned Sparrow Lark Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
29 Erythropygia galactotes Rufous-tailed Scrub-Robin, Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
30 Falco tinnunculus Common Kestrel Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
31 Francolinus pondicerianus Grey francolin Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
32 Galerida cristata Crested Lark Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
33 Gyps bengalensis White-rumped Vulture Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
34 Gyps fulvus Eurasian Griffon Vulture Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
35 Halcyon smyrnensis White-Breasted kingfisher Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
36 Hieraaetus fasciatus Bonelli's Eagle Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
37 Lanius meridionalis Southern Grey-Shrike Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
38 Lanius vittatus Bay-Backed Shrike Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
39 Lonchura malabarica Indian silverbill Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
40 Merops orientalis Green bee eater Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
41 Merops superciliosus Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
42 Mirafra cantillans Singing Bushlark Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
43 Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
44 Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
45 Neophron percnopterus Egyptian Vulture Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
46 Oenanthe deserti Desert Wheatear Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
47 Oenanthe isabellina Isabelline Wheatear Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
48 Oenanthe picata Variable Wheatear Seen Schedule-IV Least
52
S. No.
Name of Species Evidence Type
Conservation Status as per
IWPA-1972 (Schedule I to
VI)
Conservation
Status as per IUCN
Scientific Name Common Name
opistholeuca Concern
49 Passer domesticus House sparrow Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
50 Pavo cristatus Indian Peafowl Seen Schedule-I Least Concern
51 Petronia xanthocollis
Chestnut-shouldered Petronia Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
52 Prinia hodgsonii Grey-breasted Prinia Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
53 Pterocles exustus Chestnut-Bellied Sandgrouse Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
54 Pycnonotus cafer Red vented bulbul Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
55 Pycnonotus leucotis White-eared Bulbul Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
56 Saxicoloides fulicata Indian robin Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
57 Streptopelia decaocto Eurasian collared dove Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
58 Streptopelia senegalensis Laughing dove Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
59 Streptopelia tranquebarica Red-collared Dove Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
60 Sturnia pagodarum Brahminy Myna Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
61 Sturnus roseus Rosy Starling Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
62 Sylvia curruca Lesser Whitethroat Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
63 Tephrodornis pondicerianus Common Woodshrike Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
64 Turdoides caudatus Common Babbler Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
65 Upupa epops Common Hoopoe Seen Schedule-IV Least Concern
66 Vanellus indicus Red wattled lapwing Seen Schedule-IV
Least Concern
53
CHAPTER VI
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
6.1. INTRODUCTION
The wind power infrastructure principally includes wind turbines, power
transmission lines & substation and the access road needed for construction and
maintenance of turbine and transmission lines. The proposed project comes
under desert area where very minimal rainfall observed. So there is no significant
change in the impact seasonally. The wind power project does not require
continuous supply of water. Minor air and water emissions are envisaged and will
be limited to construction and maintenance of the wind turbines and transmission
lines.
Likelihood and Consequence of the impacts are categorized as per the Table
VI.1.
Table VI.1
Categorization of Likelihood and Consequence of Impacts
Level Definition
Likelihood of Impact
Certain The impact will occur in most circumstances
Likely It is most likely that impact will occur
Possible There is a distinct possibility that impact will occur
Unlikely The impact is very unlikely to occur but may occur at some time in normal conditions
Rare The possibility of the impact materializing is very low either because of design or historic experience or in exceptional circumstances
Consequence of Impact
No Impact or Insignificant
No Impacts or insignificant during the life of the project.
Minor Potential impact may result in slight decline in resource in the study area for short term duration and will return to baseline levels
Moderate Potential impact may result in slight decline in resource in the study area during the life of the project.
Major Potential impact could result in a decline in resource to lower than baseline but stable levels in the study area after project closure and into the predictable future.
Extreme Potential impact could threaten sustainability of the resources and should be considered a management concern.
In the following sections the likely impacts due to proposed wind power
infrastructure are assessed and suggestive mitigations measures are reported.
54
6.2. IMPACT ON AIR QUALITY
6.2.1. CONSTRUCTION PHASE
The construction activities for wind energy projects typically includes land
clearing for site preparation and access routes; excavation, filling; transportation
of supply materials; construction of foundations involving excavations and
concrete works; operating cranes for unloading and installation of equipment;
and commissioning of new equipment. The nearest receptors are informal
settlers which are found in the neighbouring area of identified WTGs locations.
Other than this, all the villages are located 1 Km away from the identified WTGs
locations. The major source of air pollution during the construction phase can be
due to:
Air borne emissions from the construction heavy machineries and
vehicular movements at site.
Air borne emissions during land clearing for site preparation and access
routes, cutting and filling of soil and other construction activities
Exhaust emissions from the vehicular movement and other stationery
generator sets.
The impact on air quality during construction phase is certain and minor in nature
and can be minimized or mitigated by proper preventive measures.
These impacts can be minimized by proper maintenance of machinery and
vehicles and by limiting the speed of vehicles.
The dust emission can be reduced by
Minimizing the disturbance of vegetation cover present
Stabilization of as much unpaved operations area as is feasible
Sprinkling of water is one of the measures to suppress the dust emission.
However considering the fact that the project is located in the desert area
and availability of the surface water is lean in this area, sprinkling of water
is not recommended.
Since, most of the cables used for power transmission are overhead, only
construction of base tower is involved in the transmission line related activities,
which may have minimal dust emissions.
The vehicular emissions will be depending on the condition of the pavement and
type of vehicles used in the construction activities. Moreover this impact due to
the movement of vehicles and usage of machineries during the construction
phase is of temporary nature. Suggested EMP during the construction phase will
reduce the negative impact on air quality, if any.
In the vicinity of a few of the WTG sites informal settlements were observed
during site survey. Minimum 300 m distance should be provided from the nearest
receptors in order to minimize the impact due to proposed project activities.
During the construction phase, the activities include land clearing, excavation,
concrete work, material supply etc due to which fugitive dust will be generated.
These activities will occur at each WTG site for period of 4 to 5 days. Considering
this short duration of activities and assuming that the WTGs will be sited beyond
55
300m distance from the nearest receptors, the impact due to fugitive emissions
will be minimal or insignificant at these receptors.
6.2.2. OPERATIONAL PHASE
Operational phase of the project will have limited activities, which mostly relates
to maintenance of wind turbines. These activities will include exhaust emission
from the vehicles used occasionally for maintenance and repair activities at Wind
Turbine locations. Frequency of these activities will be very less.
Therefore, impact on ambient air quality of the surrounding area will be minimum
from the proposed project.
The major positive impact from this project is the replacement of conventional
power resources like fossil fuels by clean and zero emission renewable energy.
Hence, emission of Green House Gasses (GHG) like CO2 generated from other
sources of energy is avoided.
6.3. NOISE IMPACT
Noise Receptors in the project area include residential houses and some informal settlers present near the WTG locations. Most of the WTGs are located at a distance of at least 1 Km from the village houses. Some of the informal settlers are located in the neighboring area of identified WTGs. Typical Noise Sensitive Time period for the residential area is Evening/Night.
6.3.1. CONSTRUCTION PHASE
The major sources of the noise pollution due to construction activity is from road
works, earth moving, concrete batching, levelling, grading, excavating and
compacting, movement of trucks for transportation of wind turbine assemblies,
construction materials, concrete mixers, asphalt mixing and laying equipment.
Noise may be generated from DG sets used during construction and erection of
Wind Turbine towers. All these may add to noise levels and impact the
surrounding ambient noise quality.
The construction activities will be limited to day timings (7:00am to 7:00pm) at
most of the WTG location. However, the region experience extreme temperature
during summer, hence project activities during day time is avoided. During this
season, the project activities will be carried out during night time and will
conclude by 10.00 am in the morning.
The Noise produced by the various construction machineries working at the site is tabulated in Table VI.2.
Table VI.2
Noise Source Strength of Construction Machineries
S. N. Machine Operation dBA
1. Motor Scraper Cut 84
2. Face Shovel Cut 80
3. Dump Truck Haul 83
56
4. Compactor Fill 81
5. Dozer Fill 83
6. Excavation by Shovel Cut 87
7. Excavation by Caterpillar Cut 109
Excavation by caterpillar will be used only at regions where there are rock
formations. For the proposed wind project, excavation will be done by shovel at
most of the locations. Considering the utilization of excavation by shovel for
excavation activity, predicted noise level at receptor located at 1 km is as follows:
NOISE CALCULATIONS Source = 87 dBA at 1.0 m
Noise at a distance of 1000 m from WTG
Lp2 = Lp1 - 20 log (r2/r1) Lp2 = 87 - 20 log (1000/1)
Lp2 = 27 dB
Therefore, the predicted noise at the villages located at 1km distance will be 27
dB (noise). The highest baseline noise measured at the village is 47.8 dB during
day time and 40.6 dB during night time. So difference between the predicted and
measured noise is more than 9 dB during day time as well as night time. As per
the Table VI.3, there will be no increment in baseline noise due to construction
activities at the nearest villages which are located at a distance of 1 km.
Table VI.3
Addition of Sound Levels, L1 and L2 (L1 > L2)
L1 – L2, dB Add to L1
0 or 1 3 dB
2 or 3 2 dB
4 – 8 1 dB
9 or more 0 dB
Source: Franken A. Peter, Community Noise Pollution, Industrial Pollution, Van
Noistrand Reinhold Company, New Your, 1974 ed.
However, there would be increase in the noise level due to ongoing activities of
WTGs on the surrounding area where the informal settlers are located.
Construction activities should be avoided during the night time at such locations.
If the noise generated at these locations are measured significant, then noise
barriers should be used. Noise producing activities should be carried away from
the habitations as far as possible. Since the construction activities at a WTG
location will be limited for short duration (4-7 days), the impact on the
surrounding would be minimal.
57
6.3.2. OPERATIONAL PHASE
The noise generated during operational phase of the project will be due to turbine
blades moving across the air, vehicle movement and some periodical
maintenance and repair activities carried out at the site. However, vehicle
movements, periodical maintenance and repairs will be limited short duration.
The noise generated due to operating WTGs are generally due to mechanical noise and aerodynamic noise. Assuming that at a distance of 1m, a WTG produces approximately 90dB noise, noise generation at 1km distance will be as follows.
NOISE CALCULATIONS
Source = 90 dBA at 1.0 m
Noise at a distance of 1000 m from WTG
Lp2 = Lp1 - 20 log (r2/r1) Lp2 = 90 - 20 log (1000/1)
Lp2 = 30 dB Therefore, the predicted noise at the 1 km distance where the Villages are located will be 30 dB (noise). The maximum base line noise level measured at villages is 47.8 dB during day time and 40.6 dB during night time. As per the Table VI.3 the difference between base line noise level and predicted WTG noise level at 1 km distance is more than 9. Hence, there will be no increase in existing baseline noise level at the villages during day and night time.
The baseline noise level at informal settlers‟ locations is not available. However,
the baseline noise levels measured at the villages would be more when
compared to the noise level at these informal settlers location as these sites are
scattered and generally minimal noise generation activities would take place. In
order to predict the noise generation at the informal settlers‟ location, baseline
noise level measured at villages has been considered in the present study.
Noise generation at 300 m distance:
NOISE CALCULATIONS
Source = 90 dBA at 1.0 m
Noise at a distance of 300 m from WTG
Lp2 = Lp1 - 20 log (r2/r1) Lp2 = 90 - 20 log (300/1)
Lp2 = 40.45 dB
As mentioned earlier the maximum noise level measured at villages during day
time is 47.8 dB and 40.6 dB during night time. As per the Table VI.3, the
difference between base line noise level and predicted WTG noise level at 300 m
distance is in the range of 4-8 dB during day time and 0-1 dB during night time.
Therefore, there would be an increment of about 1 dB over and above the
existing baseline level during day time and 3 dB over and above the existing
baseline level during night time at the informal settlements located at 300m
distance.
58
The predicted noise levels are not exceeding the limits as mentioned in the IFC‟s
General EHS guidelines (as given in Appendix 8), nor increasing the background
level of 3 dB at nearest receptor location.
Further, Blade design and controlled rotation in high wind conditions will further reduce aerodynamic noise emanating from the movement of air around the turbine blades and tower. The Double-Fed Induction Generator Technology used in IRL wind turbine is such that generation of the noise from the nacelle is minimal. Typical background sound levels for these areas would be generated by residential, agricultural, and small commercial activities, ambient sound from wind, and vehicle noise from regional roads. This background noise generally increases under such wind conditions and can mask the WTG noise.
Hence, the noise impact is expected to be minor on surrounding ambient noise
quality or ecology.
6.4. IMPACT ON WATER QUALITY
6.4.1. CONSTRUCTION PHASE
During site visit no surface water bodies were observed nearby to wind turbine
site locations. Hence impact from soil erosion or sedimentation of surface water
is insignificant.
Since, the foundation levels are well above the existing ground water levels more
than 40 m, the water used in construction does not mix with ground water table.
Further this activity does not involve blockage or diversion of ground water flow.
During the construction works there will be a varied man power (skilled and
unskilled) of between 50-60 people on site at any one time. In the category of
unskilled man power 40 to 50% will be outsourced from local contractors or
nearby villages where possible.
Most of the construction staff members will be from the surrounding villages.
Hence the generation of domestic wastewater will be minimal. Temporary
arrangement such as septic tanks will be provided for collection of the
wastewater in the wind farm yard area. There will be no direct discharge of
wastewater to any receiving water body.
No wastewater generation is envisaged during the operation phase. Once the
construction phase in completed the excess of excavated soil will be applied on
embankment and upper surface of leveled and unpaved area in the adjacent
area and slopes will be stabilized. This helps in prevention of soil erosion and
thus preventing contamination of water bodies.
6.5. LAND ENVIRONMENT
Land disturbance from construction activities such as excavation, leveling, filling,
topsoil stockpiling, Installation of tower foundation, etc. are expected during the
construction stage of the project which are insignificant, temporary in nature and
limited to construction phase only. Around 450-500 m3 of earth material will be
excavated per WTGs and the same top soil will be used for the filling in around
the WTGs, preparing of access roads etc.
59
Top soil removed during construction phase will be stored separately will be
applied on embankment and upper surface of leveled and unpaved area. The top
soil may be utilized for landscape development in adjacent areas. This will help in
retaining the spores of grass and shrub species that will germinate at the same
place during the monsoon period. This practice will help in reducing the soil
erosion while conserving the original plant species along with preservation of
precious top soil.
6.6. SOLID AND HAZARDOUS WASTE
The minimal quantity of solid waste generated during construction phase may
include small concrete materials, bins, unused metals, package materials,
scraps, plastic, paper and food materials etc. These kinds of wastes are limited
in quantity and generation of the same is temporary in nature. These wastes will
be collected, segregated and disposed of as per the existing municipal solid
waste rules. Therefore, soil contamination is not expected due to solid waste
generated from construction activities.
Solid waste generation during operation phase will be from replacement of
mechanical and electrical parts of the WTGs, used oil, electrical cables etc.
However, the frequency of maintenance is very less and as & when the
requirement arises. All the discarded electrical and mechanical parts have a
recycling value so same can be given to local scrap dealer.
There may be negligible amount of hazardous materials like lubricants, hydraulic
fluids from maintenance of machinery or operating vehicles, empty paint or oil
cans, waste batteries, transformers etc. generated during construction.
Highly refined, mineral insulating oils are used to cool transformers and provide
electrical insulation between live components. They are typically found at
electrical substation and maintenance shops.
In order to minimize the contamination of soil due to accidental spill or leaks of
fuels, the Substation area shall be designed sufficiently with impervious layer at
the storage areas and transformer areas. Proper sloping and drainage shall be
provided with proper collection or containment structure.
The used oils, other hazardous material will be properly collected and disposed
of as per the Hazardous waste Management and Handling Rules, 2008.
6.7. SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT
An overview of the socio-economic baseline status in the study area is given in
chapter 5.
The Land required for the proposed WTGs, Right of Way and Electrical
substation will be developed on the Government Revenue Land. The proposed
project does not involve any physical displacement (relocation or loss of shelter)
or economic displacement (loss of assets or access to assets that leads to loss
of income sources or other means of livelihood).
During site reconnaissance survey, some of the settlements were observed in
the neighboring area of the WTGs locations. During interaction with these
residents it was understood that they have moved into this land and have set the
settlement over there for managing their livestocks and for farming purpose.
60
However, these informal settlers do not use the land identified by IRL for their
livelihood or for other uses. Identified locations neither restrict their access
routes. Same thing was reflected during the interaction with these residents
during site survey.
In order to provide safe setbacks, it is recommended that IRL should identify
alternative site for WTGs which are located close to WTG location and shall
ensure that distance shall be minimum 300m from the settlements or the
sensitive receptors.
6.7.1 TRAFFIC MOVEMENT AND SAFETY
Vehicular movements in the construction stage would include heavy vehicles like
trucks carrying large equipment. The movement of the heavy machineries such
as blades, towers etc. will occur only during the night times. Hence, the traffic
during the day time would be mainly due to concrete trucks, trucks carrying steel
bars and other vehicles whose movements would be spread throughout the
construction period. The vehicular movement in a month would be around 1184
in numbers.
These may lead to impact on transportation route and increased traffic load thus
may cause threat to the lives of animals and people using the access roads.
The traffic movement along the village roads should be effectively managed in
order to ensure safety and security of humans and livestock. Traffic movement
can be managed by
Limiting the speed limits of the vehicles about 40 km/hr;
Traffic signage shall be used.
Trucks carrying heavy machineries shall be mobilized during night time;
and
Driver should be authorized and should have valid driving license,
Implement contract clauses to ensure trucks adhere to recommended
transportation routes. Impose financial penalties for non-compliance to
ensure safe operation of trucks on local roads
Inform the public of the ongoing construction operations
6.7.2 WORKING LABOURS
As mentioned earlier in this report, for an ideal size of approximate 100 MW wind
farm development around 100-125 skilled & 450-500 unskilled manpower is
required. During the construction works there will be a varied man power (skilled
and unskilled) of between 50-60 people on site at any one time. In the category
of unskilled man power 40 to 50% will be outsourced from local contractors or
nearby villages where possible. Since the proposed 300 MW wind development
will be developed in the phases over a period of 10 months, the manpower for
300 MW will not vary as specified above.
The migrant workers will be accommodated in the local villages and in Jaisalmer
city.
61
IRL should plan for collective attachment i.e marginal workers identity as group
or community, provide all facilities to all groups, interact them with community as
member , identify and review cultural interest, tradition of the marginal workers
and interact with community people so that all they identify as a whole group.
Compensate cultural impacts in an appropriate manner and propose time bound
plan such as migrant labor development plan or a broader community
development plan.
During operational phase, approximately 15-20 people are required for an ideal
100 MW project and will stay at Jaisalmer city.
6.7.3 POSITIVE IMPACTS
This project will create employment and other opportunities (e.g. service sector such as catering, cleaning, transport, security etc) for skill development. The proposed wind farm would require manpower during the time of construction phase. Members of the local community are likely to be in the position to qualify for the majority of the low skilled and some of the semi skilled employment opportunities. The other employment opportunities would be linked to service sector such as catering, cleaning, transport and security.
The project will have a positive impact by developing access roads. This will benefit to local villages for easy transportation. The internal village roads although motorable are not likely to withstand constant heavy vehicle movement and will need repair/ construction. The construction of new roads and strengthening of existing roads will lead to improved access and connectivity to the villages and agricultural fields.
The major positive impact of the proposed project is development of clean, renewable energy infrastructure for power generation. However, generated power will be given to state government and further distribution will be done by them.
6.8. ECOLOGICAL IMPACT
The results of the baseline vegetation study suggest that the project area falls in
the semi arid region and the vegetation of the area represents the same. The
vegetation species and life forms suggests that the project area represents the
characteristics that of degraded vegetation and dry and semiarid landscape.
The project area does not have any threatened, endangered or conservation
concerned faunal species. Majority of the species found in and around project
site are common throughout the state. The area does not make part of any
significant breeding, roosting or feeding habitats of important and endangered
species.
Moreover, the project area does not fall in vicinity of any important wildlife
hotspot in the region. The project site does not fall in the eco-sensitive/fragile
zone identified by the State/Central Government agencies. The area does not fall
in any of the critical wildlife habitats identified by any agencies till date.
In view of the results of the flora and fauna study it is inferred that the project
shall have least impacts on ecology of the region.
62
6.9. IMPACT ON BIRD MIGRATION AND MORTALITY
In order to predict the impact on the birds due to the proposed wind farm, a study
was carried out by Dr. Bharat Jethva, a Wild life biologist. The study report is
enclosed in the Appendix 12. Based on his study, the conclusions drawn are as
follows
The baseline status of the birds and bats clearly suggests that no
endemic or threatened species is present in and around the proposed
project area.
The sensitive receptors such as habitats of Bird‟s & Bat‟s i.e. Desert
National Park/Grassland, Wetland and roosting sites of bats do not fall in
and around the project area and they are located more than 10 km away.
Great Indian Bustard and other endangered species are less likely to be
affected because of their very small surviving population in Jaisalmer
district and it is currently restricted in Desert National Park.
Observations on movement of bats from Jaisalmer roosts suggests that
majority of the bats were moving towards the agriculture fields aligned
along the Indira Gandhi Canal 40 km north of Jaisalmer town.
Interview survey of local villagers and herders suggested the absence of
Bustards from the project area due to disturbance, developmental
activities and general increase in the human population and their
movements in the region.
Literature survey suggested that Rajasthan/India falls on Central Asian
Flyway which is broadly defined flyway for several migratory birds and
there is no specific bird route that passes only through the Jaisalmer or
Rajasthan as such.
Literature survey also suggested that wind turbines do not significantly
harm the migratory waterbirds, especially when the wetlands are located
far away from the proposed project site.
Though, there are not many cases of bird hits by windmills have been
observed in India till date, it is important that project site should be monitored
properly and specifically for bird mortality. Proposed management plan would
mitigate any likely impacts on the birds.
Suggestive Mitigation measures to minimize the impact on the birds are given in
the Appendix 16 and briefly summarized below:
Annual Monitoring of Bird hits and Mortality
Precautions to avoid disturbance to wildlife
Regular removal of carcasses of animals from the project areas that
would attract raptors or vultures
Training of Project Personals against poaching or harassment
63
6.10. ARCHEOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
It should be noted that the proposed project will not pose any problem with
respect to cultural and historical assets. As per archaeological survey of India
and state archaeology department there are no specific archaeological sites,
structures, remains or artifacts notified or demarcated within 10 Km radius of the
proposed site.
6.11. STORM AND SEISMIC HAZARD
The continuous variable pitch regulation system of the blades helps to operate at
a continuous variable speed in synchronism with the varying wind speeds.
Turbine blades are designed to work at a cut out wind speed of 20 m/s and
having storm control. These mills will stop automatically for the wind speeds
reaching more than 20 m/s.
The proposed project site is located in Zone II (Low Damage Risk Zone) as per the seismic zones of India Map IS:1893-2002, BIS GOI. However seismic hazard has been taken into account in the design of the turbine foundations to prevent tower failure in the event of shocks. Therefore, storm and seismic hazards are not of any significance for the proposed project.
6.12. IMPACT ON AIR TRAFFIC AND SAFETY
Jaisalmer airport and Air force station are situated more than 50 Km towards
North West of the proposed wind farm site. Therefore, impact on air traffic and
safety are not expected due to set of proposed wind power.
As per air navigational marking regulations, the blades of the WTGs are marked
with red bands with specific width for more visibility.
6.13. VISUAL IMPACTS
Primarily visual impacts depend on the location and public perception. During
consultation, it was understood that the local villagers were very much aware
about the wind farm project and did not have any concerns about visual impacts.
Visual impacts associated with wind power projects typically relate to the turbine
itself such as color, type, height, etc. and impacts relating to their interaction with
character of the surrounding landscape. All the proposed WTGs of this project
are of uniform diameter & color and have non-reflective paints. Use of overhead
cables for power transmission, could potentially create minimal visual impact.
However transmission line and WTGs are located away from the populated areas
as identified project will be developed on government revenue land. Hence visual
impact due to transmission line and WTGs will be insignificant. The features
blend with the natural landscape & prevent interference with the overall scenic
beauty of the surrounding area.
6.14. LIGHT AND ILLUMINATION ISSUES
Shadow Flicker
Shadow flicker occurs generally during the operation phase of the project, when
the sun passes behind the wind turbine and casts a shadow. As the rotor blades
rotate, shadows pass over the same point causing an effect termed shadow
flicker. Shadow flicker may become a problem when residences are located near,
or have a specific orientation to, the wind farm.
64
Majority of the WTGs are located 1 Km away from nearby villages. Hence impact
due to of shadow flicker is expected to be minimal from the proposed project.
Considering fact that there are no issues raised by the public so far regarding the
shadow flicker from the existing WTGs in the district, impact due to shadow
flicker on the nearest receptors such as informal settlers is not anticipated
Blade Glint:
Similar to shadow flicker, blade or tower glint occurs when the sun strikes a rotor
blade or the tower at a particular orientation. This can impact the community, as
the reflection of sunlight off the rotor blade may be angled toward nearby
residences. Blade glint is a temporary phenomenon for new turbines only, and
typically disappears when blades get soiled after a few months of operation. Also
the wind turbine towers are painted with non-reflective coatings; hence the
reflection from tower is not anticipated.
6.15. ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE AND IMPACT ON OPERATION OF AVIATION RADAR
Wind farms located near an airport may impact the operation of aviation radar by causing signal distortion, which may cause loss of signal and/or erroneous signals on the radar screen. These effects are caused by tower and rotor component reflection due to radar chopping. Design site plan of project facilities to comply with the requirement of aviation authorities to avoid electromagnetic interference.
The nearest airport which is currently not operational is located 50 Km away from
the nearest wind turbine location. Further IRL has obtained no objection
certificate from the aviation authority.
Also the design of the turbine components such as nacelle, tower and blades are
designed in such a fashion that there will be no electromagnetic interferences.
Turbine blades are made of fiberglass material of reinforced epoxy resins with
non reflecting coating which will minimize the electromagnetic interferences.
6.16. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
Currently 110MW is under construction and is expected to be operational by May
2012. IRL is also planning to develop additional 300 MW (over and above the
300 MW being developed in FY 13) in the area between Dangri and Devikot. The
location map of the proposed site is shown in Figure VI.1.
The WTGs coordinate locations for the additional 300 MW are not identified yet,
however these WTGs will be spread in the villages of Khelena, Bonanda,
Savalpura, Lakhamana, Hastinapur, Betina, Betanjpura, Sangram Singh ki
Dhani, Pratappura, Lunakalan, Luna Khurd. There will be no overlapping of
construction activities of the three projects.
6.16.1 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS DUE TO TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION
Cumulative construction effects are usually of most concern with the main traffic
impacts likely to be associated with the movements of commercial Heavy Goods
Vehicles (HGVs) transporting construction materials and wind turbine
components, to the site. Increase in traffic volumes are expected as a result of
the construction of the Project. The construction schedules of the proposed and
65
planned wind farm projects do not significantly overlap. Hence the cumulative
impact due to traffic is not anticipated.
Traffic movement once the wind farm becomes operational is usually minimal
and comprises occasional visits for maintenance activities and an occasional
need for an HGV / crane for more substantial maintenance or equipment
replacement. The effects of operational traffic would generally be considered
negligible.
6.16.2 CUMULATIVE IMPACT ON VEGETATION/FLORA:
Since Wind Farm projects occupy small land areas for wind turbine installation,
their impacts on vegetation is generally minimal. It was noticed during site visit,
that vegetation in the study area represents that of Thar Desert. Majority of the
species reported in the study area are common throughout the Thar Desert.
During the site visit no plant species with restricted distribution was observed in
the study area. It is therefore, inferred that if there is expansion or addition in the
wind farm areas in the periphery of the Dangri Project site, the cumulative impact
on the vegetation is less likely to threaten any plant species of the region.
6.16.3 CUMULATIVE IMPACT ON FAUNA:
As per the literature survey and the present study, only birds, bats and natural
habitats are likely to be affected by the wind farm development. Due to lack of
comprehensive data and information (of surrounding areas) the exact nature and
magnitude of the cumulative impacts of wind farm development is difficult to
predict. However, the cumulative impact of the wind farm development around
Dangri project site may be low on fauna due to following reasons.
During the study, it was found all the fauna that are common throughout
the Thar Desert and have wider distribution. There was not a single
species of fauna with restricted distribution present in and around the
project site and in the study area i.e. 20Km2.
No threatened bird or bat species was found in the study area.
The sensitive habitats of important fauna (particularly birds and bats) are
not located within 10km periphery of the project site.
Due to lack of wetlands (as observed through Google earth) in the 10 km
periphery of the project site, it is inferred that this area do not fall on the
route of migratory waterbirds. Therefore, it is less likely that the expansion
or addition of more wind turbines in the periphery of the study area may
cause any cumulative impact on the migratory birds.
There may be some local and common bird species (which are abundant
and having wider distribution) may lose their roosting, feeding and nesting
grounds. This may not threaten their populations.
66
Figure VI.1
Location Map of Proposed Wind Farm in the vicinity of the Proposed
Project
6.16.4 CUMULATIVE NOISE EFFECT
The expected cumulative operational impact that might be considered due to
wind farm project is Noise impact.
Since the WTG locations of the planned 300 MW (during FY 13-14) wind farm
site is not determined at the moment, it is not possible to make cumulative noise
impact at this stage. However, considering 15 km distance between the two wind
farm sites, overlapping of the noise levels reaching nearby settlement is not
anticipated.
6.16.5 EMPLOYMENT OPPURTUNITIES
As mentioned earlier, the proposed wind farm will create employment
opportunities. The planned 300 MW wind project will increase the job
opportunities and will extend for next 2 years. This will also increase the local
business in the area. Hence there will be a positive impact due to both the
project.
6.17. OVERALL IMPACTS
Temporary impacts expected during the construction phase will be mitigated
through proper implementation of mitigation measures suggested in Chapter VII
– Environmental Management Plan. The proposed project will also generate
positive impact, which includes developing of the access roads, employment
opportunities etc. However, overall impacts of both operational and construction
67
phase on the surrounding environment are expected to be positive based on
likelihood and severity of consequence as interpreted below:
Attributes Likelihood Consequence
During Construction phase
Impact on Air Quality Certain Minor
Impact on Noise Possible Minor
Impact on Water Unlikely Insignificant
Impact on Land environment Likely Minor
Impact due Solid waste Hazardous waste generation
Possible Minor
Impact on Socio economic Possible Minor
Impact on ecology Unlikely Minor
Impact on Archeological and heritage sites
Rare Insignificant
Storm and Seismic hazard
Rare Insignificant
Visual impact Likely Minor
Operational phase
Impact on Air Quality Rare Minor
Impact on Noise Possible Minor
Impact due Solid waste Hazardous waste generation
Possible Minor
Impact on Socio economic Unlikely Minor
Impact on ecology Possible Moderate
Impact on Archeological and heritage sites
Rare Insignificant
Visual impact Likely Insignificant
Impact on Aircraft traffic and Safety.
Rare Insignificant
68
CHAPTER VII
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
7.1. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN (EMP)
This section of the chapter proposes an environment management plans during
the construction and operational phase of the proposed wind energy project.
The objectives of the environmental management plan is to achieve the following
objectives:
To ensure that good engineering practices are followed during
construction and operational phases to minimize environmental
impacts.
To avoid, or where avoidance is not possible, minimize, mitigate,
or compensate for adverse impacts on workers, affected
communities and the surrounding.
To ensure that rehabilitation, resettlement of the affected
communities if any due to project shall be done properly.
To ensure good occupational health and safety practices during
construction and operation phase at the project.
To ensure that the pollutant concentration in the workplace does
not exceed the NAAQS
To monitor impacts on the environment and the effectiveness of
mitigation measures during operation
EMP, which covers IFC guideline, April 2007 on relevant features of Environment, Health and Safety required for wind energy project is recommended to be followed during the construction and operation phase of the project. EMP for construction phase and operation phase of the project is given in Table VII.1 and Table VII.2.
The promoter‟s organizational setup shall include the following department for effective monitoring and implementation of the action plan.
Human resource department
Procurement Department
Corporate Social Responsibility department
Environmental department
Project management department
69
Table VII.1
Environmental Management Plan: Construction phase
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
1 Air Quality Dust emission
during construction
activities and
movement of the
vehicles on
unpaved roads
Minimizing the
disturbance of vegetation
cover present
Stabilization of as much
unpaved operations area
as is feasible
Limiting the speed limits of
the vehicles on the
unpaved surface to 40
km/hr
Monitoring of the dust
emissions during high
wind periods
During
construction
Developer/
Contractor PS3
Inspection of implementation of action plans by Environmental and safety dept during regular audits.
Carry out the environmental monitoring by accredited Agency once in Quarter Year.
Implementation of action plans and compliance or non compliance shall be reported in the Quarterly report which will be submitted to the lenders.
70
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
Gaseous
emissions from the
construction
machineries and
Vehicles
Vehicle used for
transportation should have
the Pollution under Control
(PUC) Certificate
Regular maintenance of
the vehicles and heavy
machinery to ensure the
minimal exhaust emission
During
construction
Developer/
Contractor
PS3 Regular
maintenance of
the vehicles and
test certificates
will be
registered.
Test records will
be inspected
during Quarterly
audits.
Implementation of action plans and compliance or non compliance shall be reported in the Quarterly report which will be submitted to the lenders.
71
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
2 Noise
Quality
Noise emission
from the
Construction
related equipments
and due
movement of
Vehicles
Engine powered
construction machineries
and vehicles shall be
provided with exhaust
silencers.
Proper maintenance and
service of the machineries
and vehicles to adhere the
NAAQ noise standards
and IFC noise standards.
Limiting the speed limits of
the vehicles to 40 km/hr
Workers should be
provided with earplugs/
earmuffs to avoid the
noise impacts near high
noisy areas.
Noise levels shall be
monitored at the sensitive
receptors.
Inform residents when
activities will be
particularly noisy
During
construction
phase
Developer/
contractor PS 3
Inspection of implementation of action plans by Environmental and safety dept.
Carry out the environmental monitoring by accredited Agency once in Quarterly Year near the sensitive receptors.
Implementation of action plans and compliance or non compliance shall be reported in the Quarterly report which will be submitted to the lenders.
3 Land
environment
Impact on
receiving water
Store construction
materials containing fine
During
construction
Developer/
contractor PS3
Inspection of implementation
72
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
and water
environment
body due to soil
erosion
particles in an enclosure
such that sediment laden
water does not drain into
nearby water drains If any
Stabilize slopes on road or
elsewhere any
embankments to control
sedimentation, erosion
and water pollution.
Also consider the use of
geo-textiles to prevent soil
erosion during
construction.
Top soil shall be re-use in
the adjacent areas
phase of action plans by Environmental and safety dept.
Implementation of action plans and compliance or non compliance shall be reported in the Quarterly report which will be submitted to the lenders.
4 Waste
managemen
t
Wastewater Minimal wastewater will be
generated which will be
collected in the septic tank
No wastewater generated
will be discharged into the
water bodies.
During
construction
phase
During
constructio
n phase
PS3
Inspection of implementation of action plans by Environmental and safety dept during random checks.
Implementation of action plans and compliance or non
Solid waste Minimal solid waste will be
generated which includes
concrete materials, bins,
unused metals, package
materials, scraps, plastic,
73
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
paper and food materials
etc. which will be disposed
of as per municipal solid
waste rules
compliance shall be reported in the Quarterly report which will be submitted to the lenders
Excavation
material
Excavation generated
material will be used for
embankment of road and
minor leveling of site
during the conclusion of
construction activities and
filling low lying area of the
site
Top soil will be stored
separately and will be
applied on the
embankment and upper
surface of the leveled and
unpaved area.
Hazardous waste Minimum waste will be
generated such as empty
oil/paint containers and
the lubricating/ hydraulic
fluids used for the
maintenance. These
wastes will be stored in
the containers and
Inspection of implementation of action plans by Environmental and safety dept during random checks.
Implementation
74
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
disposed of as per
Hazardous waste
Management and
Handling Rules, 2008.
Substation area shall be
designed sufficiently with
impervious layer at the
storage areas and
transformer areas. Proper
sloping and drainage shall
be provided with proper
collection or containment
structure.
of action plans and compliance or non compliance shall be reported in the Quarterly report which will be submitted to the lenders
5 Socio-
economic
Safety of
community due
traffic movements
and construction
workers
Limiting the speed limits of
the vehicles to 40 km/ hr
within the villages and site
Trucks carrying Heavy
machineries shall be
mobilized during night
time.
Driver should have valid
driving license
Implement clause of
contract to adhere the
conditions in the Code of
conduct developed by IRL
During
construction
phase
Developer PS1
Non compliance of the action plans will be registered by the safety officer.
Appropriate actions will be taken up for noncompliance.
Non compliance and the actions taken shall be reported and shall be included in the quarterly
75
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
in order to mitigate the
impact on the community
due to presence of
construction workers in
the area.
report
Grievances Assess the grievances/ suggestions and if they are found to be genuine, will be resolved at the site office level itself within 30 days from the date of receipt. The detailed grievance Mechanism is dealt in section 7.3
During
construction
phase
Developer PS1
the detailed grievance Mechanism is dealt in section 7.3
Prepare Quarterly report and presenting it to lenders
6 Ecology Minimizing the footprint of
the construction related
activities. Once the
Construction is completed
it should be ensured that
the disturbed areas are re-
vegetated with native plant
species
Training the Project
personnel‟s to avoid any
accidents, poaching or
harassments to any
During
Constructio
n phase
Developer/
contractor PS6
Compliance and non compliance of the mitigation measures the shall be inspected by the safety and environment department once in a week
and which will be quarterly limited and
76
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
animal or bird species by
the project staff such as
laborers, drivers or any
other employees
submitted to the lenders
7 Occupationa
l Health and
safety
Workers shall be trained
for operational health and
safety requirements as
per IFC‟s EHS
guidelines.
Only trained and certified
workers to install,
maintain or repair
electrical equipment.
Deactivating and properly
grounding live power
distribution lines before
work is performed on, or
in close proximity to the
lines
Take proper care during
loading and unloading to
avoid any mechanical
injury
Provide and effective use
of necessary safety
appliance like, Safety net,
During
construction
phase
Developer/
contractor PS2
Inspection and implementation of Action plan by the Environmental and safety department.
Near-miss and other accidents shall be registered. Appropriate measures taken shall also be recorded
This will be recorded in the quarterly reports and shall be submitted to lenders
77
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
Safety belt, safety
harness etc.
All the precautions shall
be taken which includes
physical hazards due to
working at heights,
working with rotating
machinery and falling
objects.
Implementation of a fall
protection program
includes training in
climbing techniques and
use of fall protection
measures, inspection,
maintenance and
replacement etc.
Install fixtures on tower
components to facilitate
the use of fall protection
systems.
Provide workers with
adequate work
positioning device system
Ensure that hoisting
equipment is properly
78
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
rated and maintained and
that hoist operators are
properly trained.
Safety belts should be of
not less than 15.8 mm
two in one nylon or
material of equivalent
strength.
Check road embankment
for erosion and rutting,
any sign of instability to
be taken care before
every monsoon. Identify
the personnel for
monitoring and mitigating
the effect of project on
environmental and socio-
cultural resources
Lifting Tool & Tackle
should be tested as per
relevant act and mark the
safe operating limit,
testing and due test date.
Visual inspection is to be
done, before starting to
use lifting tool & tackle
79
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
Provide Personnel
protective equipments
Provide the temporary
shade in the nearby area,
so concern worker can
take rest in the different
interval and it can be
prevent from Sunstroke.
Sufficient and hygienic
drinking water should be
available at site.
Develop the nearby
available medical services
contact number and
address, in case of
emergency use.
8 Community
health and
safety
Prevent unauthorized
personnel from assessing
the site.
Wind turbine site shall be
designed with appropriate
safety setback.
Adhering to speed limits
for the traffic movement
within the project site.
Clear signs, flag-marks
During
construction
phase
Developer/
contractor PS4
Compliance reports shall be prepared and be included in the quarterly report
80
Sr.
No. Issues Impact
Actions/ Mitigation
measures
Time
schedule
Responsib
ility
IFC
Performance
standard
Supervision and
reporting
shall be used where ever
necessary in the vicinity of
the construction activity.
Develop an operational
and emergency response
program for fire and major
accidents including
emergency equipment
9 Visual
impacts
All the debris and waste
will be collected, stored
and transported in an
orderly manner to prevent
any adverse visual impact
on the surrounding.
Project equipment storage
area will be maintained
properly to prevent
adverse visual impact
During
construction
phase
Developer/
contractor PS3
Regular inspection
at site.
Compliance and
non compliance
shall be recorded.
This will be
include as a part
of Quarterly
report.
10 Storm and
Seismic
hazard
Developer/ contractor will
take necessary precaution
during the foundation
design
During
Design
Phase
Developer/
Contractor PS3
Check by the Project management Dept during the design engineering.
81
TABLE VII.2
Environmental Management Plan: Operation phase
Sr. No.
Issues Impact Actions/ Mitigation measures
Time schedule
Implementation
IFC Performance standard
Supervision and reporting
1 Noise Quality
Noise resulting from the wind turbines
Proper maintenance of instruments. Monitor the noise levels at sensitive receptors as per monitoring plan.
When the turbine is out of operation for maintenance the sound level in the nacelle is below 80 dB. In operation mode ear protection is required.
During Operation Phase
Promoter/ Developer
PS3 Inspection of implementation of action plans by Environmental and safety dept.
Carry out the environmental monitoring by accredited Agency once in Quarterly Year near the sensitive receptors.
Implementation of action plans and compliance or non compliance shall be reported in the Quarterly
82
Sr. No.
Issues Impact Actions/ Mitigation measures
Time schedule
Implementation
IFC Performance standard
Supervision and reporting
report which will be submitted to the lenders.
2 Waste management
Hazardous waste (Waste oil)
Waste oils resulting from the maintenance works will be collected, stored and will be disposed of as per Hazardous waste Management and Handling Rules, 2008.
Ensure proper and contained disposal of enamel and paint drums and other waste at sites
During Operation Phase
Promoter/ Developer
PS3 Inspection of implementation of action plans by Environmental and safety dept during random checks.
Implementation of action plans and compliance or non compliance shall be reported in the Quarterly report which will be submitted to the lenders
3 Socio-economic
Grievances Assess the grievances/ suggestions and if they
During operation
Promoter/ developer
PS1 the detailed grievance
83
Sr. No.
Issues Impact Actions/ Mitigation measures
Time schedule
Implementation
IFC Performance standard
Supervision and reporting
are found to be genuine, will be resolved at the site office level itself within 30 days from the date of receipt.
phase Mechanism is dealt in section 7.3
preparation of annual report and presenting it to Lenders annually
4 Ecology Bird Hits and Mortality
annual monitoring of windmills shall be carried out at least for two years for two migratory bird season(November to March) in order to understand if there are any significant mortality of birds or disturbance to them due installation of windmills in the project area.
Regular removal of the animal carcasses in avoid vultures and raptors
Training project personnel against harassment or poaching.
Plantation of native trees in other areas selected in consultation with
During operation phase
Promoter/ Developer
PS6 Monitoring avian fauna for 2 years by expert ornithologist.
Presenting the half yearly reports to the lenders
84
Sr. No.
Issues Impact Actions/ Mitigation measures
Time schedule
Implementation
IFC Performance standard
Supervision and reporting
biologists or with local forest officials post construction.
5 Occupational health and safety
Workers will be trained for the health and safety requirements as per IFC EHS guidelines.
All the precautions will be taken while working at heights
Only trained and certified
workers to install,
maintain or repair
electrical equipment.
Deactivating and properly
grounding live power
distribution lines before
work is performed on, or
in close proximity to the
lines
Provide Personnel protective equipments
Implementation of a fall protection program includes training in climbing techniques and use of fall protection measures, inspection,
During Operation phase
Promoter/ Developer
PS2 Inspection and implementation of Action plan by the Environmental and safety department.
Near-miss and other accidents shall be registered. Appropriate measures taken shall also be recorded.
This will be recorded in the quarterly reports and shall be submitted to lenders
85
Sr. No.
Issues Impact Actions/ Mitigation measures
Time schedule
Implementation
IFC Performance standard
Supervision and reporting
maintenance and replacement etc.
Lifting Tool & Tackle should be tested as per relevant act and mark the safe operating limit, testing and due test date.
Provide workers with adequate work positioning device system.
6
Community health and safety
Design site plan of project facilities to comply with the requirement of aviation authorities to avoid electromagnetic interference.
Prevent unauthorized personnel from accessing the towers by locking the doors of the tower
Grounding conducting objects which are installed near power lines, to prevent shock.
Wind turbine site shall be designed with appropriate safety setback.
Enforce traffic control including speed limits.
During Operation phase
Promoter/ Developer
PS4 Compliance reports shall be prepared and be included in the quarterly report
86
Sr. No.
Issues Impact Actions/ Mitigation measures
Time schedule
Implementation
IFC Performance standard
Supervision and reporting
Provide rational speed control to ensure the safe operation of wind turbine rotors.
Develop an operational and emergency response program for fire and major accidents including emergency equipment.
Warning labels and public hazard information boards will be available at site to ensure public safety.
7 Visual impacts
Turbine will be painted a uniform color generally that will blend with sky i.e. light grey , white
Use anti-collision lighting and marking systems on towers and blades to provide aviation safety.
Use identical turbine model for all turbines
Repair turbines immediately
Clean turbines Remove excess materials
and litter
During Operation phase
Promoter/ Developer
PS3 Inspection of implementation of action plans by Environmental and safety dept.
Compliance reports shall be prepared and be included in the quarterly report
87
Disclosure of the action plan:
1) Prepare a quarterly report of issues involved during Project activities and the implementation of respective mitigation measures/ action plan.
2) The Reports will be made accessible at the Office sites for the Project affected communities
7.2. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME
Environmental monitoring and supervision programme is a vital process of any management plan of the development project. This helps in alarming the potential problems that may result from the proposed project. This will help in taking prompt action for implementation of effective corrective measures. The main objectives of the monitoring program are:
To assess the changes in environmental conditions.
To monitor the effective implementation of mitigation measures.
Changes in environmental quality for further preventive action.
An environmental monitoring programme with parameters and frequency location are given in Table: VII.3 & 4. In order to ensure the effective implementation of
the monitoring programme, regular inspection shall be taken up by the Environmental and Safety team. Compliance/ non compliance of the monitoring programme shall be recorded and quarterly report shall be submitted to the lenders.
Table VII.3
Environmental Monitoring Programme – Construction Phase
Item Location of Sampling
Parameters Frequency Standard methods
Air quality at nearest
village from wind turbine.
At Storage Yard
Nearest Village
Nearest Informal Settler
SO2 (24 hrly)
Twice in year during
construction period.
Improved West and Gaeke method.
Ultraviolet Fluorescence
NOx (24 hrly)
Jacob & Hochheiser modified method.
Gas Phase Chemiluminescence
SPM(24 hrly) High Volume
Sampling (HVS)
PM 10µ and 2.5µ (24 hrly)
Respirable Particulate
Matter Sampler
Noise measuremen
All the Informal settler
Equivalent noise level (Leq) for day
Once in a three month
Hourly
88
t at nearest village or.
Nearest Villages or nearest settlement from wind turbine
time and night time (Ld and Ln).
during construction
period.
Water quality at the
nearest WTG location (if
any)
Borewell locations Nearest Village
Ground water samples
Twice in year during
construction period.
IS: 10500
Soil
at substation and storage yard
Texture, physico chemical analysis
and relevant heavy metals
Twice in year during
construction period.
As per applicable standard
Table VII.4
Environmental Monitoring Programme - Operation Phase
Item
Parameters Frequency Standard methods
Noise Equivalent noise level (Leq) for day time and night time (Ld and Ln).
Once in year at nearest village from wind turbine.
Hourly
Surface Water quality
Measurement of surface, ground water
and soil quality for lubricating oil if any
contamination occurs as a result of considerable
oil spill to a nearby surface or unpaved ground due to the maintenance and operation of wind turbine activities.
Once in year at the nearest Surface water/ ground water
from the wind turbine
IS: 10500
Ground Water quality
IS:2296
Soil As per
applicable standard
Bird mortality
annual monitoring of windmills be carried out at least for two years for two migratory bird seasons (November-
March) in order to understand if there are any significant mortality of birds or disturbance to them due installation
of windmills in the project area.
-
7.3 GRIEVANCE MECHANISM
A joint social and environmental redress mechanism should be implemented under the project. Grievances and suggestions from local and affected people may come-up related to inappropriate implementation of the project and components of EMP. The expected range of grievances to be handled through this mechanism will encompass but not limited to the following:
a) Nuisance from noise, dust, and temporary blocking of access;
b) Emissions from increase vehicular traffic and stationary sources;
89
c) Conflict between local residents and migrant workers;
d) Underpayment or delayed payment of local workers,
e) Ownership of vegetation for clearing; and
f) Damage compensation.
These issues will be addressed through acknowledgement, evaluation and corrective action and response approach. Grievances from public or stakeholders concerning the project and EMP implementation will be received by the concerned „Project In-charge‟ at site. A site register will be maintained where all complaints are registered with the signature of the complainant and the „Site In-charge‟. The „Site In-charge‟ shall send one copy of the complaints to the following departments in the project promoter‟s organizational set up.
Human Resource Department,
Procurement Department,
Corporate Social Responsibility Department (Liaison Officer)
Environmental and Safety Department and
Project Management Department
If present, the Project Supervisor will then assess the grievances/suggestions and if they are found to be genuine, will be resolved at the site office level itself within 30 days from the date of receipt. In case, the issue is unable to be resolved, the matter will be forwarded to the Social and Environmental department to the clients head quarter. The final responsibility of Grievance Redressal shall lie with the Project Management Department or the „Project In-charge‟. For management of complex grievance issues the client shall include local administration and local community representatives to resolve the issues when required. Grievance mechanism shall applicable during due course of construction phase and implementation phase of the project.
90
CHAPTER VIII
PUBLIC CONSULTATION, FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
8.1 PUBLIC CONSULTATION
Public Consultation is an important component of this study. As the proposed
project site involves only government revenue land, residents of the nearby
villages, local gram panchayats and representative of the local community were
considered as stakeholders and were consulted during the study. All the
stakeholders were informed well in advance about public consultation.
Stakeholder‟s consultation meeting was organized on 25th Feb, 2012 at
Fatehgarh Primary School, at Fatehgarh. All the stakeholders were informed
well in advance about venue, date and meeting date. The stakeholders included
the residents of the nearby villages, representatives of Inox team,
representatives of Tata Consulting Engineers Limited (TCE), IFC personnel and
farmers from different villages etc.
The meeting was opened with the introduction of the project by TCE. An
interactive session was held in Hindi Language (local language) with the villagers
to help them have better understanding of the project and its related impacts.
The stakeholders were informed regarding project benefits. Importance of the
project in terms of utilization of renewable energy resources and mitigation of
climate change was highlighted in during the interactive session. The photograph
of the interactive session held between during public consultation is shown in the
Figure VIII.1.
The meeting had a positive ambience and the participants supported the Project.
The discussion was intended to understand public opinion of the proposed
project.
Outcome of the public consutlation are as follows:
(a) The local public was aware about the wind energy project
IRL has conducted knowledge sharing camps for proposed project with
the intention to create awareness about the wind energy project among
the people. Local public was versed with the knowledge about wind
turbines and same was also reflected during the public consultation.
(b) Gist of Views of the public about the proposed project
Villagers were happy, as huge investment was planned in the
area. They were excited about new employment opportunities and
infrastructure developments in the area. The project will generate
employment to villagers.
The separate access roads are also welcomed by the villagers as
it will improve their accessibility to the fields.
Villagers expect more cashflow, income generation & thereby
economy development of the area.
Few villagers raised the concern that noise generation due WTG
might scare their cattle away. This concern of villagers was
addressed by giving example of already operating wind turbine in
91
the surrounding area where the cattle routinely graze underneath
the operating turbine. Also it was addressed that generation of
noise will be minimal due to the technology and design used for
the proposed project WTGs.
The expectation level with regard to community and individual
benefits from the proposed project included consistent power
supply as there is frequent power shut down in the area.
The public mentioned that they have not come across any case of bird collision or bird injury due to existing wind turbines in the surrounding area.
Figure VIII.1
Stakeholders during Public Consultation
92
List of stakeholder Attendees during public consultation
93
8.2 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The proposed project is not generating any solid or liquid effluents and thereby pollution of land, surface water or ground water resources is not anticipated.
Wind energy project are considered as green projects which have either insignificant or minimal negative impact on the surrounding environment. The negative impact are reversible in nature and can be mitigated by proper Environmental Management Plan (EMP).
It is recommended to follow the EMP for construction and operational phases of the project in order to mitigate the adverse impacts.
During site recoinaissance survey it was observed that few human settlements are in the close vicinity of the proposed wind farm site. During interaction with residents of settlement it was understood that they have migrated to revenue land and managing their livelihood through farming and livestocks.
There is no phyical diplacement or economic displacment, however it is recommended to IRL to consider alternate feasible site for WTG locations which are located less than 300 m to such settlement, in order to ensure that there will be no hardships due to community health and safety issues during the due course of implementation and long run of the project.
It is recommended to IRL to support the activities such as development and improvement of the educational and medical facilities in the area as a part of CSR activity since the area is deprived of these facilities.
The major source of income in the area is from tourism and farming. The proposed project will additionally generate of temporary and long term employment oppurtunities.
Project will have positive socioeconomic benefits in the surrounding villages.
This project attracts CDM benefits for which relevant study is required to be undertaken after execution.
The proposed wind project falls under category “B” implying limited minimal social or environmental impacts - specific to site, largely reversible and which can readily be managed through envisaged mitigation measures.
It can be concluded that proposed project is environment-friendly and environmentally sustainable in the long run.
94
APPENDIX 1
COORDINATE LOCATION OF WTGs
Turbine ID Turbine Easting* (m) Northing* (m)
185 WTG Points
1 DANT202 734532 2943386
2 DANT201 734414 2943750
3 DANT205 734487 2944402
4 DANT203 735041 2943914
5 DANT204 734868 2944222
6 DANT206 734298 2944708
7 DANT208 735020 2944944
8 DANT207 734832 2945256
9 DANT200 733931 2943882
10 DANT199 733702 2944171
11 DANT209 735293 2944675
12 DANT210 735569 2944441
13 DANT197 734014 2945165
14 DANT196 733836 2945463
15 DANT195 733600 2945742
16 DANT194 733113 2945912
17 DANT198 734743 2945685
18 DANT193 732926 2946217
19 DANT192 732820 2946579
20 DANT191 732713 2946931
21 DANT179 732215 2946010
22 DANT178 731745 2946209
23 DANT190 732730 2947328
24 DANT189 732569 2947667
25 DANT181 732032 2947151
26 DANT180 732062 2946765
27 DANT177 731396 2946561
28 DANT176 731214 2946895
29 DANT188 732642 2948092
30 DANT187 732449 2948429
31 DANT185 732132 2948694
32 DANT184 732022 2949129
33 DANT183 731443 2948567
34 DANT186 732927 2948934
35 DANT182 731746 2948266
36 DANT173 730390 2946270
37 DANT174 730446 2945730
38 DANT175 730633 2945285
39 DAN-T3 731406 2941519
40 DAN-T4 731248 2940638
41 DANT94 742222 2937458
42 DANT6 732114 2940460
43 DANT7 731489 2940185
44 DANT8 731639 2939913
45 DANT9 731904 2939646
46 DANT14 732691 2940132
95
Turbine ID Turbine Easting* (m) Northing* (m)
47 DANT13 732825 2940594
48 DANT15 733065 2939787
49 DANT16 733575 2939086
50 DANT12 732283 2938819
51 DANT11 732421 2939128
52 DANT10 732186 2939406
53 DAN-T2 730467 2942136
54 DAN-T1 729776 2942327
55 DANT17 734485 2940494
56 DANT18 734853 2940419
57 DANT20 735147 2939204
58 DANT21 735379 2938925
59 DANT25 736281 2937831
60 DANT34 737550 2935058
61 DANT35 737522 2934557
62 DANT36 738029 2934213
63 DANT37 738558 2933868
64 DANT38 738713 2933579
65 DANT39 739050 2933268
66 DANT40 738907 2932871
67 DANT41 739070 2932558
68 DANT42 739309 2932240
69 DANT56 741824 2936884
70 DANT57 742244 2936780
71 DANT55 740710 2936728
72 DANT62 741718 2935184
73 DANT63 741780 2934859
74 DANT64 741872 2934486
75 DANT61 741612 2935650
76 DANT86 742995 2935269
77 DANT85 743499 2935226
78 DANT58 742461 2936510
79 DANT92 742918 2936955
80 DANT91 743259 2936829
81 DANT90 743484 2936557
82 DANT65 741876 2934093
83 DANT66 741954 2933757
84 DANT67 741955 2933316
85 DANT68 742147 2932874
86 DANT69 742890 2932833
87 DANT70 742555 2932452
88 DANT71 742400 2932049
89 DANT72 742537 2931765
90 DANT73 743781 2931583
91 DANT108 739011 2941868
92 DANT155 748745 2944987
93 DANT154 748804 2944652
94 DANT153 748233 2944034
95 DANT152 748397 2943443
96 DANT150 748396 2942994
96
Turbine ID Turbine Easting* (m) Northing* (m)
97 DANT151 748923 2943144
98 DANT148 749563 2942662
99 DANT149 748755 2942595
100 DANT134 747171 2942233
101 DANT133 747195 2941364
102 DANT132 746904 2941044
103 DANT131 746614 2940529
104 DANT130 746662 2939849
105 DANT127 745947 2939154
106 DANT126 746180 2938944
107 DANT125 745978 2938562
108 DANT124 745846 2938236
109 DANT137 747409 2939582
110 DANT138 747672 2939395
111 DANT128 746934 2939106
112 DANT156 747127 2937530
113 DANT157 747214 2937205
114 DANT158 747434 2936726
115 DANT159 747456 2936400
116 DANT165 748419 2936240
117 DANT164 748447 2936619
118 DANT162 748556 2936970
119 DANT161 748612 2937475
120 DANT163 749311 2936955
121 DANT160 748272 2937717
122 DANT139 749081 2938465
123 DANT140 750033 2938315
124 DANT141 749927 2939541
125 DANT143 750190 2940349
126 DANT142 750626 2940332
127 DANT147 750804 2941971
128 DANT144 749544 2941031
129 DANT145 749503 2941410
130 DANT146 749986 2941792
131 DANT135 748141 2940986
132 DANT136 748196 2940624
133 DANT129 746763 2939384
134 DANT166 748498 2935865
135 DANT167 748666 2935528
136 DANT168 748865 2935155
137 DANT169 748320 2935058
138 DANT170 748337 2934611
139 DANT171 749215 2933096
140 DANT172 749482 2932534
141 DANT80 746315 2933767
142 DANT79 746396 2933156
143 DANT119 744648 2936776
144 DANT120 744581 2936424
145 DANT121 744938 2936289
146 DANT122 744706 2935900
97
Turbine ID Turbine Easting* (m) Northing* (m)
147 DANT123 745023 2935476
148 DANT83 745095 2934778
149 DANT82 745053 2934442
150 DANT81 744938 2934158
151 DANT117 743793 2936975
152 DANT118 744060 2936700
153 DANT89 743967 2936271
154 DANT88 744177 2935821
155 DANT84 744420 2934966
156 DANT78 745259 2932962
157 DANT77 745314 2932646
158 DANT76 745561 2931779
159 DANT74 744911 2931599
160 DANT75 744785 2931958
161 DAN-T5 731605 2940550
162 DANT22 736017 2939233
163 DANT24 736228 2938228
164 DANT23 736249 2939046
165 DANT19 736430 2940542
166 DANT26 736451 2937596
167 DANT27 736690 2937340
168 DANT31 737004 2935770
169 DANT32 737081 2935457
170 DANT28 737211 2937061
171 DANT29 737745 2936889
172 DANT33 737835 2935438
173 DANT30 738015 2936114
174 DANT51 738677 2938014
175 DANT52 739323 2938121
176 DANT53 739361 2937794
177 DANT54 740154 2937665
178 DANT98 740843 2938320
179 DANT97 741436 2938085
180 DANT96 741476 2937782
181 DANT95 741739 2937602
182 DANT59 742418 2935938
183 DANT93 742629 2937178
184 DANT60 742789 2935936
185 DANT87 743625 2935807
25 WTG points
1 DANT44 737302 2941352
2 DANT43 737386 2941671
3 DANT45 737431 2940997
4 DANT47 737856 2940331
5 DANT46 737889 2940890
6 DANT50 737983 2938879
7 DANT48 738508 2940360
8 DANT109 738600 2942290
9 DANT49 738837 2940174
10 DANT107 739277 2941586
98
Turbine ID Turbine Easting* (m) Northing* (m)
11 DANT104 739279 2940614
12 DANT103 739464 2940391
13 DANT102 739612 2940095
14 DANT99 739702 2939114
15 DANT106 739713 2941518
16 DANT105 739753 2941126
17 DANT101 739791 2939858
18 DANT100 740154 2939706
19 DANT111 740186 2942637
20 DANT112 740274 2942349
21 DANT110 740277 2943041
22 DANT113 740570 2941000
23 DANT114 740671 2940724
24 DANT115 740761 2940352
25 DANT116 741072 2940150
* Co-ordinate system is UTM Zone 42 R, WGS84 datum.
99
APPENDIX 2
MICROSITING DRAWING FOR 185 LOCATIONS
100
APPENDIX 2
MICROSITING DRAWING FOR 25 LOCATIONS
101
APPENDIX 3
AMBIENT AIR MONITORING LOCATIONS MAP
102
APPENDIX 4
NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS
S.No. Pollutant Time
Weighted Average
Concentration in Ambient Air
Industrial, Residential, Rural and Other area
Ecologically Sensitive
Area (notified by Central
Government
Methods of Measurement
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
1 Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), µg/m3
Annual* 50 20 -Improved West and Gaeke
24 hours** 80 80 -Ultraviolet
Fluorescence
2 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), µg/m3
Annual* 40 30 -Modified Jacob & Hochheiser
(Na-Arsenic)
24 hours** 80 80 - Chemiluminescence
3
Particulate Matter (size less than 10 µm) or PM10 µg/m3
Annual* 24 hours**
60
100
60
100
- Gravimetric
- TOEM
- Beta attenuation
4
Particulate Matter (size less than 2.5 µm) or PM2.5 µg/m3
Annual* 40 40 - Gravimetric
- TOEM
24 hours** 60 60 - Beta attenuation
5 Ozone (O3) µg/m3
8 hours **
100 100 - UV photometric
- Chemiluminescence
1 hour** 180 180 - Chemical method
6 Lead (Pb) µg/m3
Annual* 0.5 0.5
- AAS/ICP method after sampling on EPM 2000 or equivalent filter paper
24 hours** 1 1 - ED-XRF using Teflon filter
7 Carbon Monoxide (CO) mg/m3
8 hours ** 2 2 - Non Dispersive Infrared (NDIR)Spectroscopy 1 hour** 4 4
8 Ammonia (NH3) µg/m3
Annual* 100 100 - Chemiluminescence
24 hours** 400 400 - Indophenol blue method
9 Benzene (C6H6) µg/m3
Annual* 5 5 - Gas chromatography
based continuous analyser
103
Note- Whenever and wherever monitoring results on two consecutive days of monitoring exceed the limits specified above for the respective category, it shall be considered adequate reason to institute regular or continuous monitoring and further investigation
-The Principal rules were published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary vide number S.O. 844(E), dated the 19th November , 1986; and subsequently amended vide numbers S.O.433(E), dated the 18th April, 1987; G.S.R. 176(E), dated 2nd April 1996; and were recently amended vide numbers G.S.R 97 (E), dated the 18 th February, 2009; G.S.R. 149(E), dated the 4th March, 2009;G.S.R. 512(E0, dated the 9th July, 2009; G.S.R. 543(E), dated the 22nd July 2009;G.S.R.595 (E), dated the 21st August 2009; and G.S.R 794(E), dated the 4th November ,2009.
- Adsorption and Desorption followed by GC analysis
10
Benzo (α) Pyrene (BaP) -Particulate Phase only ng/m3
Annual* 1 1 - Solvent extraction
followed by HPLC/GC analysis
11 Arsenic (As), ng/m3
Annual* 6 6
- AAS/ICP method after sampling on EPM 2000 or equivalent filter paper
12 Nickel (Ni),ng/m3
Annual* 20 20
- AAS/ICP method after sampling on EPM 2000 or equivalent filter paper
* Annual Arithmetic mean of minimum 104 measurements in a year at a particular site taken twice a week 24 hourly at uniform intervals.
** 24 hourly or 8 hourly or 01 hourly monitored values, as applicable, shall be complied with 98% of the time in a year. 2% of the time, they may exceed the limits but not on two consecutive days of monitoring.
104
APPENDIX 5
NOISE MONITORING LOCATIONS MAP
105
APPENDIX 6
NOISE MONITORING DATA
Location N1: Dangri Village Monitoring Period: 19.03.12 & 20.03.12 Environmental Setting: Residential Area
TIME
(IN HRS.)
NOISE LEVEL
IN dB (A)
AVERAGE DAY NOISE
LEVEL dB (A) (6.00
A.M TO 10.00 P.M)
AVERAGE NIGHT NOISE
LEVEL dB (A) (10.00 P.M TO 06.00
A.M)
DAY TIME (6.00 A.M TO 10.00 P.M)
Standard Limits in dB (A)
NIGHT TIME (10.00 P.M TO
06.00 A.M) Standard Limits
in dB (A)
06.00 AM 36.6
46.2 37.8
(A)Industrial
area-75 (B)Commercial
area-65
(C)Residential area-55
(D)Silence zone-50
(A)Industrial
area-70 (B)Commercial
area-55
(C)Residential area-45
(D)Silence zone-40
07.00 AM 39.9
08.00 AM 43.1
09.00 AM 45.0
10.00 AM 48.6
11.00 AM 49.9
12.00 PM 53.1
01.00 PM 54.5
02.00 PM 51.5
03.00 PM 50.0
04.00 PM 47.6
05.00 PM 45.7
06.00 PM 44.9
07.00 PM 43.5
08.00 PM 45.1
09.00 PM 41.4
10.00 PM 40.3
11.00 PM 40.3
12.00 AM 39.9
01.00 AM 37.9
02.00 AM 36.7
03.00 AM 35.0
04.00 AM 34.0
05.00 AM 35.3
106
Location N2: Bhainsra Village Monitoring Period: 23.03.12 & 24.03.12 Environmental Setting: Residential Zone
TIME
(IN HRS.)
NOISE LEVEL
IN dB (A)
AVERAGE DAY NOISE
LEVEL dB (A) (6.00
A.M TO 10.00 P.M)
AVERAGE NIGHT NOISE
LEVEL dB (A) (10.00 P.M TO 06.00
A.M)
DAY TIME (6.00 A.M TO
10.00 P.M) Standard Limits
in dB (A)
NIGHT TIME (10.00 P.M TO
06.00 A.M) Standard Limits
in dB (A)
06.00 AM 38.6
46.8 39.0
(A)Industrial area-75
(B)Commercial area-65
(C)Residential area-55
(D)Silence zone-50
(A)Industrial area-70
(B)Commercial area-55
(C)Residential area-45
(D)Silence zone-40
07.00 AM 41.9
08.00 AM 43.6
09.00 AM 45.2
10.00 AM 46.7
11.00 AM 52.0
12.00 PM 55.7
01.00 PM 58.8
02.00 PM 49.8
03.00 PM 50.8
04.00 PM 48.7
05.00 PM 46.5
06.00 PM 43.8
07.00 PM 43.7
08.00 PM 43.4
09.00 PM 40.1
10.00 PM 41.8
11.00 PM 41.1
12.00 AM 39.8
01.00 AM 37.5
02.00 AM 37.0
03.00 AM 36.5
04.00 AM 39.1
05.00 AM 39.8
107
Location N3: Lakhmona Village Monitoring Period: 22.03.12 & 23.03.12 Environmental Setting: Residential Zone
TIME
(IN HRS.)
NOISE LEVEL IN dB
(A)
AVERAGE DAY NOISE
LEVEL dB (A) (6.00
A.M TO 10.00 P.M)
AVERAGE NIGHT NOISE
LEVEL dB (A) (10.00 P.M TO 06.00
A.M)
DAY TIME (6.00 A.M TO
10.00 P.M) Standard Limits
in dB (A)
NIGHT TIME (10.00 P.M TO
06.00 A.M) Standard Limits
in dB (A)
06.00 AM 34.1
45.5 38.3
(A)Industrial area-75
(B)Commercial area-65
(C)Residential area-55
(D)Silence zone-50
(A)Industrial area-70
(B)Commercial area-55
(C)Residential area-45
(D)Silence zone-40
07.00 AM 36.6
08.00 AM 41.2
09.00 AM 43.0
10.00 AM 44.7
11.00 AM 47.1
12.00 PM 51.7
01.00 PM 55.2
02.00 PM 54.4
03.00 PM 51.9
04.00 PM 47.6
05.00 PM 47.7
06.00 PM 43.8
07.00 PM 43.5
08.00 PM 43.8
09.00 PM 43.0
10.00 PM 41.9
11.00 PM 40.0
12.00 AM 39.1
01.00 AM 36.6
02.00 AM 39.7
03.00 AM 35.9
04.00 AM 37.5
05.00 AM 36.0
108
Location N4: Lakhmanser Village Monitoring Period: 26.03.12 & 27.03.12 Environmental Setting: Residential Zone
TIME
(IN HRS.)
NOISE LEVEL IN dB
(A)
AVERAGE DAY NOISE
LEVEL dB (A) (6.00
A.M TO 10.00 P.M)
AVERAGE NIGHT NOISE
LEVEL dB (A) (10.00 P.M TO 06.00
A.M)
DAY TIME (6.00 A.M TO
10.00 P.M) Standard Limits
in dB (A)
NIGHT TIME (10.00 P.M TO
06.00 A.M) Standard Limits
in dB (A)
06.00 AM 37.6
47.6 40.6
(A)Industrial area-75
(B)Commercial area-65
(C)Residential area-55
(D)Silence zone-50
(A)Industrial area-70
(B)Commercial area-55
(C)Residential area-45
(D)Silence zone-40
07.00 AM 42.0
08.00 AM 44.3
09.00 AM 45.6
10.00 AM 47.9
11.00 AM 51.1
12.00 PM 53.3
01.00 PM 55.5
02.00 PM 52.9
03.00 PM 51.1
04.00 PM 49.9
05.00 PM 47.8
06.00 PM 46.9
07.00 PM 46.2
08.00 PM 45.8
09.00 PM 43.8
10.00 PM 43.2
11.00 PM 42.8
12.00 AM 42.5
01.00 AM 41.1
02.00 AM 39.8
03.00 AM 39.7
04.00 AM 37.4
05.00 AM 38.8
109
APPENDIX 7
AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS IN RESPECT OF NOISE
Area Code Category of Area/ Zone
Limit in dBA (Leq)*
Day Time Night Time
(A) Industrial area 75 70
(B) Commercial area 65 55
(C) Residential area 55 45
(D) Silence Zone 50 40
Note:
1. Day time shall mean from 6.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m.
2. Night time shall mean from 10.00 p.m. to 6.00 a.m.
3. Silence zone is defined as an area comprising not less than 100 metres around hospitals, educational institutes and courts. The silence zones are zones which are declared as such by the competent
authority.
4. Mixed categories of areas may be declared as one of the four above
mentioned categories by the competent authority.
* dB(A) Leq denotes the time weighted average of the level of sound in decibels
on scale A which is relatable to human hearing.
A "decibel" is a unit in which noise is measured.
"A", in dB(A) Leq, denotes the frequency weighting in the measurement of noise
and corresponds to frequency response characteristics of the human ear.
Leq: It is an energy mean of the noise level over a specified period.
110
APPENDIX 8
NOISE LEVEL AS PER IFC GUIDELINES
Receptor Daytime
One Hour LAeq (dBA)
Day time (07:00 - 22:00)
Night time (22:00 - 07:00)
Residential; institutional; Educational
55 45
Industrial, commercial
70 70
111
APPENDIX 9
GROUND WATER MONITORING LOCATIONS MAP
112
APPENDIX 10
GROUND WATER QUALITY
Sr. No
Parameter Unit
Dangri Village,
Tube well (GW)
Mehreri, Tube well (GW)
Bhainsra, Tube well
(GW)
Laxmansar Village,
Tube well (GW)
1 pH (at 270C) 6.78 7.6 7.21 7.86
2 Temperature 0C 26 27 26 26
3 Turbidity NTU 5.4 18 7.2 8.2
4
Electrical
Conductivity(at
25⁰C) µS/cm 2400 5950 2330 1758
5 Colour Hazen <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0
6 Total Dissolved
solids mg/l 1108 3020 1134 940
7 Total Suspended
Solids mg/l 8.3 20 9.6 11.6
8 Total Alkalinity mg/l 471.24 714 247.52 428.4
9 Total Hardness mg/l 396 241.56 986.04 198
10 Chloride as Cl mg/l 357.01 1359.58 270 299.91
11 Sulphate as SO4 mg/l 89.88 297.6 149.31 67.19
12 Nitrate as NO3 mg/l 51.88 62.7 246.03 7.01
13 Fluoride as F mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
14 Sodium as Na mg/l 320 1200 200 400
15 Potassium as K mg/l 3 6 5 5
16 Salinity mg/l 645 2456 487.76 541
17 T KN mg/l <0.3 <0.3 <0.3 <0.3
18 Total phosphorus mg/l <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05
19 Dissolved Oxygen mg/l 6.7 6.2 5.6 6.9
20 BOD mg/l <2.0 3.21 <2.0 <2.0
21 COD mg/l <4.0 15.62 <4.0 <4.0
22 Phenolic Compound mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001
23 Arsenic mg/l <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
24 Mercury as Hg mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001
25 Lead mg/l 0.03 0.04 <0.005 <0.005
26 Cadmium as Cd mg/l <0.002 <0.002 <0.002 <0.002
27 Hexavalent Chromium mg/l 0.09 0.08 <0.05 <0.05
28 Total Chromium mg/l 0.2 0.25 0.24 0.24
29 Copper as Cu mg/l <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02
30 Zinc as Zn mg/l <0.02 0.08 0.75 0.23
31 Selenium as Se mg/l <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005
113
Sr. No
Parameter Unit
Dangri Village,
Tube well (GW)
Mehreri, Tube well (GW)
Bhainsra, Tube well
(GW)
Laxmansar Village,
Tube well (GW)
32 Iron as Fe mg/l <0.05 0.23 0.08 0.1
33 Oil & Grease mg/l <1.4 <1.4 <1.4 <1.4
34 Ca mg/l 66.53 20.59 142.56 25.34
35 TPH mg/l <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02
36 MBAS mg/l <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02
37 PCB mg/l <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001
38 SiO2 mg/l <0.01 3.2 <0.01 <0.01
39 Mn mg/l <0.02 0.04 <0.02 <0.02
40 PO4 mg/l <0.15 <0.15 <0.15 <0.15
41 Ba mg/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
42 Mg mg/l 55.12 45.62 151.11 32.31
43 Total Coliform MPN/100ml <2 <2 30 500
44 Faecal Coliform /100ml Absent Absent Present Present
45 Phytoplankton Units/l --- --- --- ---
46 Zooplankton Units/l --- --- --- ---
114
APPENDIX 11
SOIL MONITORING LOCATIONS MAP
115
APPENDIX 12
SOIL CHARACTERISTICS
Sr. No Parameter Unit Dangri Village
Mehreri Project
Site Bhainsra
Laxmansar Village
1 Texture Sand Sandy
loam Sand Sand
2
pH (1:2.5) at
27⁰C
8.47 8.91 9.02 9.69
3 Permeability Cm/hr 5.62 4.42 5.42 5.82
4
Electrical Conductivity at
25⁰C
µs/cm 77.21 118.34 126.1 190.99
5 Nitrite mg/kg < 1 4.24 < 1 < 1
6 Nitrate mg/kg 2.58 5.2 4.88 4.6
7 Phosphates mg/kg <12 <12 <12 21.83
8 TPH mg/kg <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0
9 N mg/kg 87.81 109.76 76.83 82.32
10 As mg/kg < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2
11 Hg mg/kg < 0.1 < 0.1 < 0.1 < 0.1
12 Pb mg/kg 1.96 2.08 1.04 0.84
13 Cd mg/kg <0.04 <0.04 <0.04 <0.04
14 Cr mg/kg < 2.0 < 2.0 < 2.0 < 2.0
15 Cu mg/kg <0.4 <0.4 <0.4 <0.4
16 Zn mg/kg 0.44 <0.4 0.74 <0.4
17 P mg/kg <4 < 4 <4 7.12
18 Fe mg/kg 3.36 2.99 <1.4 1.94
19 Mn mg/kg 4.86 3.62 4.54 3.62
20 Ni mg/kg 0.84 0.48 <0.2 <0.2
21 Ba mg/kg < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0 < 1.0
22 K mg/kg 70 200 300 130
23 Porosity % 44.35 43.59 47.1 42.85
24 Total
Hydrocarbons mg/kg <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
25
Cation exchange capacity
meq/100g 5.76 12.56 5.8 6.2
26 Sand %(W/W) 92.2 69.5 93.8 94.4
27 Silt %(W/W) 3.8 28.5 3.2 1.4
28 Clay %(W/W) 4 2 3 4.2
116
APPENDIX 13
DEMOGRAPHIC STRUCTURE OF THE STUDY AREA
NAME of the village
No of Households
Population Population 0-6 Years SC Population ST Population
Total Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female
Rajgarh 161 952 563 389 207 139 68 48 27 21 57 34 23
Bahla Basti 55 347 194 153 93 50 43 5 2 3 0 0 0
Chhodiya 55 335 189 146 78 44 34 180 96 84 5 4 1
Laxmansar 75 487 289 198 121 74 47 55 33 22 0 0 0
Dangri 394 2400 1284 1116 592 313 279 70 39 31 498 255 243
Mehreri 70 461 240 221 113 55 58 59 27 32 0 0 0
117
APPENDIX 14
LITERACY LEVEL IN THE STUDY AREA
NAME of the village
Literate Illiterate
Total Male Female Total Male Female
Rajgarh 390 271 119 562 292 270
Bahla Basti 148 93 55 199 101 98
Chhodiya 147 107 40 188 82 106
Laxmansar 161 123 38 326 166 160
Dangri 827 613 214 1573 671 902
Mehreri 172 129 43 289 111 178
118
APPENDIX 15
OCCUPATIONAL STRUCTURE
Village name
Total Workers
(Main+Marginal)
Persons
Total Workers (Main+Marginal)
Males
Total Workers (Main+Marginal)
Females
Main
Workers
- Persons
Main Workers - Males
Main Workers
- Females
Main Workers
Cultivators - Persons
Main Workers
Cultivators - Males
Main Workers
Cultivators -
Females
Rajgarh 535 311 224 424 253 171 305 181 124
Bahla Basti 97 88 9 92 86 6 53 49 4
Chhodiya 119 85 34 93 85 8 70 63 7
Laxmansar 254 146 108 202 138 64 123 62 61
Dangri 1066 667 399 358 291 67 101 90 11
Mehreri 209 120 89 121 98 23 78 66 12
119
APPENDIX 15 (continued)
OCCUPATIONAL STRUCTURE
Village name
Main Workers
Agricultural Labourers -
Persons
Main Workers
Agricultural Labourers -
Males
Main Workers
Agricultural Labourers -
Females
Main Workers
Household Industry - Persons
Main Workers
Household Industry -
Males
Main Workers
Household Industry - Females
Main Workers Other -
Persons
Main Workers Other - Males
Main Workers Other -
Females
Rajgarh 7 6 1 3 3 0 109 63 46
Bahla Basti 4 3 1 0 0 0 35 34 1
Chhodiya 0 0 0 0 0 0 23 22 1
Laxmansar 3 0 3 1 1 0 75 75 0
Dangri 0 0 0 99 98 1 158 103 55
Mehreri 0 0 0 0 0 0 43 32 11
APPENDIX 16 Bird and Bat Study for Dangri Wind farm project at Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
BIRD AND BAT STUDY FOR DANGRI
WINDFARM PROJECT AT JAISALMER,
RAJASTHAN
Submitted to
INOX Renewable Limited
Submitted by
Tata Consulting Engineers
Expert
Dr. Bharat Jethva
i
Preface
It is largely believed that any industrial development is essentially a destructive activity, where
ecology suffers at the altar of economy, fortunately for wind energy projects, it is not true. It is
therefore the harvesting of wind energy has widespread encouragement as it does not harm
or cause any environmental degradation and adverse impact on forests and wildlife.
However, if wind farms are developed in and around forest and wildlife areas, there are still
wide concern about their placements and conservation of habitats and species.
It is in this context M/s Inox Private Limited approached us to get a thorough and
independent study done on their proposed wind farm project in Jaisalmer district. The study
could also be a prerequisite for getting approval and financial assistance from various
agencies.
In order to provide facts, and support informed decision on the development versus nature
conservation issues, we took up this study. As an independent agency, we carried out
intensive fieldwork for firsthand data collection, surveyed relevant literature, interviewed local
people, gathered maps and project details from the company and carefully analyzed the
situation at the project site and built our own opinion. The study was restricted to project area
and its 10 km periphery from the project area.
We are happy to provide our technical input at the planning stage for this ecologically
compatible industry in this ecologically important region. We anticipate that the user agencies
would perceive this study in right sense.
ii
Executive Summary
1. M/s Inox Private Limited has planned to install 185 wind turbines in 3 villages of
Jaisalmer District. These villages are Dangri, Bhesda, Mehriri. The site selected is
one of the most feasible and scarcely available locations in the State for wind farm
development and therefore, company does not have any other alternative to this
site. The company proposes to develop wind farm by procuring government land
from Rajasthan Government. Owing to widespread concern over the windfarm
development and bird, bats mortalities and impacts on natural habitats the company
approached our agency to carry out a comprehensive study on the issue.
2. Subsequently, a detailed ecological study of Birds, Bats and natural habitats in
relation to project activities is carried out by a team led by expert wildlife biologist.
The study is carried out in line with several other international studies carried out
elsewhere. Field visits were made to carryout direct and indirect observations;
interview survey and survey of secondary literature for conducting the study. Study
also gave special emphasis on impacts of project on Birds, Bats and endemic and
threatened birds of the region.
3. The study carefully reviewed the distances of the proposed windmill locations from
sensitive receptors such as Desert National Park/Grasslands, wetlands, Bat roosting
sites.
4. The study envisaged lower impacts of proposed project on birds, bats and natural
habitats and subsequently suggested a brief management plan for the project. This
chiefly include, annual monitoring of birds and bats mortalities, precautions to avoid
birds attracted to carcasses, training project personals and post construction
planning and management.
5. It is opined that the project could be ecologically compatible and shall have
negligible impacts on birds and bats of the region. However, this could be true only if
the suggested broad mitigation plan is implemented and executed by the company
and supervised by the governmental agencies.
iii
Contents 1. Introduction 1
1.1. Wind energy projects and concerns of Bird & Bats mortalities 1
1.2. Wind Energy Sector Promotion by the Indian Government 2
1.3. Legal framework & India’s international obligations for biodiversity conservation
3
1.4. Objectives & scope of the work 6
2. Methodology 7
2.1. Basic frame work of data collection 7
2.2. Basic understanding of the project & surrounding areas 8
2.2.1. Field visits 8
22.2. Orientation and location 8
2.2.3. Surrounding area and geography 8
2.3. Baseline status of birds and bats species 8
2.4. Important bird & bats habitats, hotspots and their distances 10
2.5. Literature Review 10
2.6. Analysis to evaluate the potential impacts. 10
3. Ecological Scenario Assessments 11
3.1. Basic understanding of the project & surrounding areas 11
3.2. Baseline status of birds and bats species 12
3.2.1. Bird Species diversity 12
3.2.2. Bird species abundance 13
3.2.3. Bat species abundance 15
3.2.4. Bat Species in the project area 17
3.3. Migratory bird Flyway/routes 18
3.4. Natural habitats/Protected Areas 19
3.4.1. Grasslands 19
3.4.2. The Desert National Park 20
3.4.3 Wetlands 21
3.5. Threatened Birds species 22
3.5.1. Great Indian Bustard 22
4. Impact Analysis 26
4.1. Analysis to Predict the Potential Impacts on Birds 26
4.1.1. Disturbance leading to displacement of bird groups 28
4.1.2. Barrier to movements 28
4.1.3. Collision with turbine blades 28
iv
4.1.4. Direct habitat loss 28
4.2. Analysis to predict the potential impacts on Bats 28
4.3. Analysis to evaluate overall impacts 29
5. Proposed Mitigation Plan 30
5.1. Annual Monitoring of Bird Hits and Mortality 30
5.2. Precautions to avoid disturbance to wildlife 30
5.3. Regular removal of carcasses from the project areas 31
5.4. Training Project Personals 31
5.5. Post Construction Planning and management 31
6. Conclusions 32
7. References 33
Annexure 35
v
List of Tables Maps & Figures
MAPS
3.1 Desert National Park and the proposed project site in Jaisalmer district. 20
2.1 Landuse types in and around proposed project site showing absence of wetlands. 21
TABLES
3.1 Status of birds in and around the project area. 13
3.2 Encounter rate of birds recorded from the project area. 14
4.1 Bird group wise comparison with known impacts 27
4.2 General inferences drawn from the various aspects of the study 29
PLATES
3.1 Proposed project site near Dangri-Ramsar villages in Rajasthan (February 2012). 11
3.2 Megachiroptera, Indian Flying fox on the roost at Gadisar Pond in Jaisalmer. 16
3.3 Central Asian Flyway for migratory birds (Wetlands International). 18
3.4 Migratory Crane Flyway (Source International Crane Foundation Website) 18
3.5 Representative photo of vegetation and habitat types present in the project site. 19
3.6 Great Indian Bustards in Grasslands. 23
3.7 Interview of local people to know the status of endangered birds in the project area. 24
1
1. Introduction
1.1. Wind energy projects and concerns of Bird & Bats mortalities
Wind farms are a relatively new method of obtaining ‗clean‘ energy by avoiding air pollution
and other forms of environmental degradation associated with fossil fuel technologies (Nelson
and Curry 1995) and have received strong public support as an alternative energy source
(Leddy et al. 1999). Moreover, wind farms have shown a spectacular growth because they
have reduced the costs of energy production. This phenomenon has resulted in a
proliferation of wind farms around the world (Germany, Holland, Spain, United States, etc.)
(Osborn et al. 2000).
However, there are wide concerns over wind farm developments, that they are cause of bird
and bats mortalities. Bird and bats are known to hit windmill blades and die. There are three
special concerns that arise with respect to the development of wind farms. Several studies
across the world have raised the concerns on the wind farm development.
They represent a source of noise, they have an aesthetic impact on landscapes and they
might represent a supplemental negative impact on bird populations (Nelson and Curry
1995). Wind turbine farms in landscapes have given rise to much controversy relating to bird
conservation issues in many European countries (Larsen and Madsen 2000). Wind turbines
seem to add an obstacle for bird movements and research has shown that birds fly into the
rotor blades (Morrison and Sinclair 1998).
Although some studies have recorded bird collisions with rotor blades (Orloff and Flannery
1992; Barrios 1995; Musters et al. 1996; Hunt 1999), other studies gave evidence that birds
could detect the presence of wind turbines and generally avoid them (Nelson and Curry 1995;
Osborn et al. 1998). The scarce information on the possible interactions between birds and
wind turbines has shown that: (1) waterfowl and raptors seem to be the groups with the
highest risk of collision, not directly related to their abundance (Orloff and Flannery 1993;
Osborn et al. 1998), (2) familiarity with turbines, leading to a decrease in awareness, may be
an important factor contributing to increased mortality (Orloff and Flannery 1993), (3) dark
nights increase mortality of waders (Dirksen et al. 1998), (4) passerine species appear to be
at greatest risk of colliding during spring and autumn migrations (Higgins et al. 1996; Osborn
2
et al. 1998), and (5) there is evidence that waterfowl, wading bird and raptor densities near
turbines are lower (Leddy et al. 1999). Moreover, birds avoid flying in areas with wind turbines
and their flight patterns are deferred when wind turbines are rotating or not rotating (Osborn et
al. 1998). However, up to now population-level effects have not yet been demonstrated to
reject the further development of wind power. The main purposes of our research were to
determine (1) the possible impacts of wind turbines on both the local, breeding and migratory
bird populations in one of the most important migration points between Europe and Africa, the
Strait of Gibraltar in the south of Spain, and (2) the degree of flight behavioural change in
birds resulting from the presence of a wind farm.
Research shows that wind farms can impact wildlife in 2 principal ways: 1) they can eat up or
fragment habitat and/or 2) they can directly kill birds and bats. Habitat fragmentation occurs
when wind farms and their associated roads, power lines, and other structures displace
wildlife. The impacts of habitat fragmentation go far beyond the immediate ―footprint‖ of the
wind farm, because some wildlife particularly grassland species will avoid areas with high
towers.
Bird and bat deaths occur in two ways. Birds die when they collide with turbines, power lines,
and other structures. Although bat collisions can occur (sometimes bats turn off their
echolocation and can run into things), recent scientific studies indicate that barotrauma may
be a significant cause of bat deaths at wind farms. Baratrauma occurs as bats chase the
turbine blade (their echolocation detects a moving object). As the bat gets close to the blade,
it is pulled into a low pressure area immediately behind the blade. This low pressure area
causes the bat‘s lungs to expand into its body cavity, exploding the blood capillaries in the
bat‘s lungs. This phenomenon was recently established as a significant killer of bats at an
Alberta wind farm.
1.2. Wind Energy Sector Promotion by the Indian Government
In view of the need of substantial energy to match country‘s growth, and security, Indian
government is promoting development of renewable energy projects in the country. The
government of India has announced many benefits for such projects. Wind energy projects in
India are given special incentives and benefits by the Government of India.
3
Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India, has issued
guidelines dtd 10.11.2003 and amendments thereafter for diversion of forest
land for non-forest purpose under the forest (conservation) act, 1980 for
promoting wind energy.
Wind Power Project does not fall in the purview of getting ―Environment
Clearance‖ under Environment Protection Act 1980.
Guidelines for declaration of Eco-Sensitive zones around National Parks and
Wildlife Sanctuaries issued by Ministry of Environment and Forests,
Government of India, dtd 9th
February 2011 also suggest promotion of green
technology and use of renewable energy in these zones.
Dandi eco-sensitive zone notification by Ministry of Environment and Forests,
Government of India, dated 13th
October 2010 (F.No. 24011/11/2009-
SICOM) also promotes setting up of non-conventional energy sources such
as wind and solar.
1.3. Legal framework & India’s international obligations for biodiversity
conservation
Though, wind farm projects are considered clean energy projects and they are
encouraged by the Governments, there are still wide concerns over their impacts on
birds, bats, natural habitats and wildlife especially when they are close to protected
areas. The impacts of wind farm projects are being studied and several studies have
shown that it can prove detrimental if the projects are placed without considering the
biodiversity conservation of the area. India being signatory to various international
conventions and treaties, it is bound to preserve its biodiversity, conserve natural
habitats, and protect migratory birds by various laws and acts. Some of the
conventions, treaties, laws, rules and acts are listed below. Any undue impacts of
project on biodiversity, wildlife, killing or torturing of animals could be subjected to these
laws.
1.3.1. Wildlife (Protection Act 1972)
The Government of India enacted Wild Life (Protection) Act 1972 with the objective of
effectively protecting the wild life of this country and to control poaching, smuggling and
illegal trade in wildlife and its derivatives. The Act was amended in January 2003 and
punishment and penalty for offences under the Act have been made more stringent.
4
The Ministry has proposed further amendments in the law by introducing more rigid
measures to strengthen the Act. The objective is to provide protection to the listed
endangered flora and fauna and ecologically important protected areas.
1.3.2. The Biological Diversity Act 2002
This act was born out of India‘s attempt to realize the objectives enshrined in the
United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) 1992 which recognizes the
sovereign rights of states to use their own Biological Resources. The Act aims at the
conservation of biological resources and associated knowledge as well as facilitating
access to them in a sustainable manner and through a just process for purposes of
implementing the objects of the Act it establishes the National Biodiversity Authority in
Chennai.
1.3.3. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act was enacted in 1960 to prevent the infliction
of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals and to amend the laws relating to the
prevention of cruelty to animals. After the enactment of this Act, the Animal Board of
India was formed for the promotion of animal welfare.
India is also signatory to following conventions which bind and guide the country to take
initiatives for conservation of its biodiversity, wetlands and migratory species including
migratory birds.
1.3.4. Convention on Biological Diversity 1992
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), known informally as the Biodiversity
Convention, is an international legally binding treaty. The Convention has three main
goals: 1) conservation of biological diversity (or biodiversity); 2) sustainable use of its
components; and 3) fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic
resources In other words, its objective is to develop national strategies for the
conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity. It is often seen as the key
document regarding sustainable development. The Convention was opened for
signature at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro on 5 June 1992 and entered into force
on 29 December 1993. 2010 was the International Year of Biodiversity. The Secretariat
of the Convention on Biological Diversity is the focal point for the International Year of
Biodiversity. At the 2010 10th Conference of Parties (COP) to the Convention on
5
Biological Diversity in October in Nagoya, Japan, the Nagoya Protocol was
adopted. On 22 December 2010, the UN declared the period from 2011 to 2020 as the
UN-Decade on Biodiversity. They, hence, followed a recommendation of the CBD
signatories during COP10 at Nagoya in October 2010.
1.3.5. Ramsar Convention 1971
The Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971) -- called the "Ramsar Convention" -
- is an intergovernmental treaty that embodies the commitments of its member
countries to maintain the ecological character of their Wetlands of International
Importance and to plan for the "wise use", or sustainable use, of all of the wetlands in
their territories. Unlike the other global environmental conventions, Ramsar is not
affiliated with the United Nations system of Multilateral Environmental Agreements, but
it works very closely with the other MEAs and is a full partner among the "biodiversity-
related cluster" of treaties and agreements.
1.3.6. Convention on Migratory Species 1979
The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (also known
as CMS or the Bonn Convention) aims to conserve terrestrial, marine and avian
migratory species throughout their range. It is an intergovernmental treaty, concluded
under the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme, concerned with the
conservation of wildlife and habitats on a global scale. The Convention was signed in
1979 in Bonn (hence the name) and entered into force in 1983.
Migratory species threatened with extinction are listed on Appendix I of the Convention.
CMS Parties strive towards strictly protecting these animals, conserving or restoring the
places where they live, mitigating obstacles to migration and controlling other factors
that might endanger them. Besides establishing obligations for each State joining the
Convention, CMS promotes concerted action among the Range States of many of
these species. The Agreements may range from legally binding treaties (called
Agreements) to less formal instruments, such as Memoranda of Understanding, and
can be adapted to the requirements of particular regions.
6
1.4. Objectives & scope of the work
In view of the above mention facts, country‘s laws/acts and obligations as well as
company‘s requirement to meet with international environmental safety standards, we
carried out the present study. The study was carried out with following objectives to
assess the impacts of proposed wind farm on bird, bats and natural habiatas.
i. Evaluate the proposed project site and its surrounding areas for presence bird
species, their status(migratory, threatened) and their critical habitats.
ii. Evaluate the project site and its surrounding areas for bats species, their
movement and rendezvous.
iii. Evaluate the impacts of proposed wind farm project on important natural habitas.
iv. Provide possible suggestions and mitigations for windfarm development.
7
2. Methodology 2.1. Basic frame work of data collection
As with other sources of renewable energy, wind energy is generally considered to result in
few environmental impacts. Despite this, assessment of impacts of wind farm development
on birds and bats and other biodiversity requires sufficient and systematic data on various
aspects in and around the proposed site. The prediction of impacts of wind farm industries on
birds and bats depends on understanding of the proposed activities and its extent, scale and
ecological conditions in the surrounding area. Collection of comprehensive baseline
information on birds, bats and natural habitats is a prerequisite for assessment of impacts of
wind farm development activities. It would also help in advance planning and mitigate the
impacts and ultimately managing the natural habitats and resources. The approach to
achieve the stated objectives within defined scope of work, include field surveys, interviews,
and reviews of literature. Following was the basic fame work of the data collection.
a) Basic understanding of the project & surrounding areas
i. Field visit
ii. Orientation and location
iii. Surrounding area and geography
b) Baseline status of birds and bats species
i. Species checklist prepared during field visit
ii. Encounter rate of birds calculated through transect surveys
iii. Interview survey of local people and naturalists
iv. Spatio temporal distribution of birds and bats
v. Rare, endangered and migratory species
vi. Important habitats for birds & bats
c) Important natural habitats, biodiversity hotspots and their distances
i. Protected area
ii. Wetlands
iii. Grasslands
d) Literature review
8
2.2. Basic understanding of the project & surrounding areas
It is important to understand the project area and its geography in order to collect data and
predict impacts of the project. Following activities were carried out to get basic understanding
of the project area.
2.2.1. Field visits
A field visit was conducted between 21st and 26
th February 2012 to understand and assess
the impacts of proposed wind farm development on birds. We evaluated the distribution of
birds in and around the project site.
2.2.2. Orientation and location
In order to know the orientation and location of the project site with reference to the distances
and boundaries of important bird and habitats, we studied project site maps. We also used
Global Positioning System (GPS) to find out distances from each of these. This was useful in
assessing whether the proposed project site is within the boundaries of any important bird
habitats and the Desert National park or beyond it.
2.2.3. Surrounding area and geography
In order to know the surrounding habitats, geography and land use pattern, we made a field
visit to the proposed project site, studied maps of the area and used freely available satellite
imageries on internet (Google Earth). This was useful in assessing the overall suitability of
land for wildlife and to see if it makes any part of corridors/migration route for any important
bird species or not.
2.3. Baseline status of birds and bats species
We randomly surveyed project site area and its periphery of 10 Km radius for direct and
indirect observation on birds, bats and natural habitats. A checklist of birds sighted in the
project area and their abundance was recorded. Species were identified and finalized using
standard reference bird books and existing checklists for the area. We calculated the
encountered rate of birds (i.e. bird sighted per kilometre of walk) in the project areas. Total 2
transects of 10 kilometre each were walked in the project site. This was done in morning
hours i.e. between 6:30 Am to 9:00 Am. The transects were laid between 1) Dangri to Mehriri
and 2) Dangri to Bhesda. During the transects direct sightings of bird‘s species were recorded
systematically for further analysis. For studying status of bats, we chose evening timing i.e.
9
between 6:45 PM till 7:45PM beyond this timing it was difficult to cite any flying object in the
sky.
Apart from these, In order to obtain information on birds and bats around project site, specific
search was carried out. The search efforts were made at various important areas in the study
area which includes looking for habitat specific birds in grasslands, wetlands and dense
bushes, shady trees etc.
In order to get information on bats, we made specific searches at various locations where
likelihood of bats was higher. These places include fort, large trees and abandoned houses
etc. This survey has helped us in identifying various locations of bats and their behaviour and
characteristics.
In order to acquire additional information on the distribution of birds species of the area, we
interviewed several local people who included farmers, herders and villagers, tourist guides
etc. They were asked several questions about the presence of various bird species in the
surroundings and their sightings, breeding habitats such as nests, their observation seasons
and timings etc. The respondents were also shown bird photographs from the standard bird
books in order to improve the check list of birds of the project area. They were also asked
specific questions, whether the windmill may have any negative impacts on wildlife,
agriculture and the people etc. In human dominated landscape, human response to wildlife
presence can serve as an index to understand the intensity of wildlife use of the area. Field
observations were therefore complemented by efforts to generate information from informal
consultations with local people on use of area, corridor by any wildlife species.
The information received on the status of the birds and bats species were plotted in matrix of
season, time and places with reference to the project site. This spatio-temporal distribution of
birds and bats provided us clear understanding of the species present in the project area and
their seasonality. For example, migratory birds are found in the winter season and most of
them are found in the wetlands. Now measuring the distances from wetlands would let us
know if the migratory birds would be affected from the project or not. In order to understand
the importance of the species of the project area, the birds and bats species observed in the
study were classified in the threat categories defined by the Birdlife International. The species
list was classified into endangered, vulnerable, near threatened, least concerned categories.
10
They were further classified in to migratory, resident and passage migrant‘s categories of bird
species.
2.4. Important birds & bats habitats, hotspots and their distances
The distances from important bird and habitats such as protected area i.e. Desert National
Park, Important large wetlands, and grassland area were measured using GPS. These
important areas such as Important Bird Areas (IBAs), classified by Birdlife International.
Boundary of the Desert National Park was prepared using GPS and also plotted on Google
Earth TM for better understanding or the surrounding areas and presentation. These areas
were personally visited in order to check the status of habitats i.e. grassland and wetlands etc.
2.5. Literature Review
Considering the time limitation to undertake statistically rigorous data gathering system, study
also relied on existing knowledge about the ecology and biodiversity of the region.
Importantly, there are quite a few studies undertaken in the past dealing with the impacts of
wind turbines on birds and bats and other concerns of biodiversity conservation in many
countries. Literature on wind farm and associated environmental issues, were downloaded
and collated using internet. Various relevant papers and reports were surveyed during the
study for collection of baseline information on migratory bird‘s flyways/routes, migratory birds
such as cranes and their flyways/routes etc. Maps of the flyways & routes of the important
migratory birds routes were also studied. Books on birds, bats and wildlife were also studied
in order to understand the biology of several species.
2.6. Analysis to evaluate the potential impacts.
The information collected on status of birds & bats, their spatio temporal distributions,
hotspots, and potential impacts of wind farm project development were logically analyzed and
conclusions were extracted for making suggestions for project development.
11
3. Ecological Scenario Assessments
3.1. Basic understanding of the project & surrounding areas
The project site falls at around 50 km distance in South-East ditection from Jaisalmer town in
Rajasthan. The project site is located in the Dangri, Meheriri, Ramsar, Bhesda etc. villages
(Plate-3.1). The proposed site is located in the Thar Desert (zone 3A) bio-geographic zone of
India (Rodgers et al. 2002). The Thar or Indian Desert is one of the smallest deserts in the
world, but most thickly populated.
Plate-3.1: Proposed project site near Dangri-Ramsar villages in Rajasthan (February 2012).
The Thar Desert is located at the crossing where the Palaearctic, Oriental and Saharan
elements of biodiversity are found (Baqri and Kankane 2002). The Thar is also known for its
great civilization in Ghaggar and the Indus river basin. It occupies about 9% of India‘s
geographical area and covers 208,751 sq. km in Rajasthan alone (Rahmani 1997a). The
desert extends to the Ferozepur, Sangrur and Bhatinda districts of Punjab in the north and to
the Mahendragarh and Hissar districts of Haryana in the northeast. The major part of the Thar
is occupied either by dry open grassland or by grassland interspersed with trees and thorny
bushes (Gupta 1975). The main grass type of the Thar is Dichanthium-Lasiurus-Cenchrus
12
(Dabadghao and Shankarnarayan 1973). Bhandari in 1990 wrote: ―in general the vegetation
in the arid region is sparse. Plants with only xerophytes adaptations are able to establish
themselves. The bulk of the vegetation consists of stunted, thorny or prickly shrubs and
perennial herbs capable of drought resistance.‖ Nearly 58% of the Thar is covered with sand
dunes and interdunal valleys. Many shifting dunes which have stabilized are covered with
Capparis decidua, Calotropis procera, Calligonum polygonoides, Acacia senegal, Prosopis
cineraria, Aerva javanica, Aristida adescensionis and other psammophytic species (Shetty
1994).
3.2. Baseline status of birds and bats species
Data collected during the field visit and Information gathered from the secondary literature
was used for generating baseline status of birds and bats for the project area. In order to
create baseline, the baseline data were created for the study area i.e. project area and 10 Km
radius of the project site. All the bird records for this entire study area were collated from
primary data collected from the field visits and secondary literature. We used this information
for better understanding of the bird diversity at the project site. These are given in the
following sections.
3.2.1. Bird Species diversity:
As per our field visit records and secondary literature there are around 66 species of the birds
in and around the project site. However, apart from these records there are some historical
records of presence of Great Indian Bustard, Lesser Florican and Houbara Bustards area
there which may not hold true today, as the developmental scenario and human population in
this region has increased many folds since then. During our field visit in February, 2012 we
observed total 37 species in the reperesentative project area that we visited (Table-3.1 &
Annexure-I).
Of these recorded species only one species i.e. Indian Peafowl is listed as Schedule-I
species by the Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972, whereas House crow is listed as
Schedule-V and rest all the species are listed as Schedule-IV. As per IUCN & Birdlife
International threat categories, all 66 species recorded in the study area and 37 species
recorded in the project area belonged to Least Concerned category (Table-3.1 & Annexure-I).
Total 21 species reported in the study area (10 km radius) were migratory. However, only 7
migratory species were reported from the project sites. Of 66 species reported in the study
13
area during the visit, 45 were found to be resident breeder in this region, however, only 8
common species are reported to breed in the project site (Table-3.1 & Annexure-I).
Table- 3.1: Status of birds in and around the project area.
Status as per Categories Study area (10
Km Radius) Project Site
Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972
Schedule- IV 64 36
Schedule-I 1 0
Schedule-V 1 1
IUCN Threat Categories
Least Concerned 66 37
Vulnerable 0 0
Near Threatened 0 0
Critically Endangered 0 0
Endangered 0 0
Migratory Resident Migratory 21 7
Resident 45 30
Breeding Records Breeding 45 8
3.2.2. Bird species abundance
Abundance of the bird species in the project area was calculated as birds encountered per
kilometre of walk in the project area (Table 3.2). It appears form the results that small
passerine species such as House Sparrow, Rosy Starling, Cattle Egret, Crested Lark, Red
vented bulbul, Indian Silverbill, Ashy crowned sparrow lark, Indian Silverbill, etc. had higher
encounter rate compared to that of large birds such as House crow etc. Majority of the birds
are found in the open scrub land and semi arid to arid landscapes. Moreover, majority of the
species that has higher encounter rate in the project area are listed as Schedule-IV in the
Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and Least Concerned species by the IUCN-Birdlife
International threat categories. Overall low encounter rate suggests lower density of
occurrency of birds in the project area. This results safely states that the project site does not
fall in the prime habitat (most important breeding and feeding areas) of any endemic or
threatened birds species and therefore, do not pose major threat to their populations in the
region.
14
Table-3.2: Encounter rates of birds recorded in the project area.
No Common Name Scientific Name encounter
rate per Km
1 Ashy Crowned Sparrow Lark Eremopterix griseus) 0.15
2 Bay-Backed Shrike Lanius vittatus 0.05
3 Black drongo Dicrurus macrocercus 0.05
4 Blue rock pigeon Columba livia 0.1
5 Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops superciliosus 0.05
7 Brahminy Myna Sturnia pagodarum 0.05
8 Cattle egret Bulbulcus ibis 0.2
9 Chestnut-Bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exustus 0.05
10 Chestnut-shouldered Petronia Petronia xanthocollis 0.05
11 Common Babbler Turdoides caudatus 0.1
13 Common Iora Aegithina tiphia 0.05
14 Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus 0.1
15 Common myna Acridotheres tristis 0.05
18 Common Woodshrike Tephrodornis pondicerianus 0.05
19 Crested Lark Galerida cristata 0.2
21 Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus 0.1
23 Eurasian collared dove Streptopelia decaocto 0.1
26 European Roller Coracias garrulus 0.05
29 Green bee eater Merops orientalis 0.05
31 Grey-breasted Prinia Prinia hodgsonii 0.05
32 House crow Corvus splendens 0.1
33 House sparrow Passer domesticus 0.3
34 House Swift Apus affinis 0.05
36 Indian robin Saxicoloides fulicata 0.05
37 Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis 0.05
38 Indian silverbill Lonchura malabarica 0.2
40 Laughing dove Streptopelia senegalensis 0.05
42 Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis 0.1
45 Oriental magpie robin Copsychus saularis 0.1
47 Red vented bulbul Pycnonotus cafer 0.1
48 Red wattled lapwing Vanellus indicus 0.1
49 Red-collared Dove Streptopelia tranquebarica 0.05
50 Rosy Starling Sturnus roseus 0.3
54 Singing Bushlark Mirafra cantillans 0.05
55 Southern Grey-Shrike Lanius meridionalis 0.05
60 Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris 0.05
61 Variable Wheatear Oenanthe picata opistholeuca 0.15
15
3.2.3. Bat species abundance
There are 114 species of bats (17 mega bats and 97 micro bats) reported from India. Of
these, 11 species are found in Thar Desert region. Based on the secondary literature (Purohit
& Senacha 2004) and our field visits, we confirmed that there are only 4 species of bats (3
microchiropteran and 1megachiroptera) found in Jaisalmer region of Thar Desert. The
species of bats found in region are listed as following.
Microchiropteran
i. Greater Mouse-tailed Bat (Rhinopoma microphyllum)
ii. Lesser Mouse-tailed Bat (Rhinopoma hardwickii)
iii. Naked-rumped Tomb Bat (Taphozous nudiventris)
Megachiroptera
i. Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus giganteus)
It is important to mention here that none of the bats species found in this region are
threatened as per IUCN threat categories. Moreover, none of the species were found to be
endemic of Thar Desert or the Jaisalmer region. All 4 species of bats are listed as Least
Concerned category of species as per IUCN categories meaning that there is no immediate
threat to their populations and they have wider distribution in the region.
Based on secondary literature and our field visit we found that there are 9 roosting sites of the
bats in and around Jaisalmer town. Of these 9 sites, megachiroptera species are found at
only two sites i.e. Gajroop Sagar village/Lodurva and Gadisagar Pond (Plate-3.2), rest all the
roosts are within and close periphery of Jaisalmer town. Lodurva village roosting site is only
7.0 Km from the proposed project site.
Roosts of Bats in Jaisalmer (Purohit & Senacha 2004 and Primary field visit data)
1. Annapurana Bhandar, Sonar Fort (26° 54‘ 45‖ N, 70° 54‘ 58‖ E).
2. Raj Mahal Palace, Sonar Fort (26° 54‘ 51‖ N, 70° 54‘ 48‖ E).
3. Rani Mahal Palace, Sonar fort (26° 54‘ 42‖ N & 70° 54‘ 50‖ E
4. Patawa Haveli (26° 54‘ 58‖ N, 70° 54‘ 54‖ E).
5. Amar Sagar Garden, Amar Sagar Village (26° 55‘ 55‖ N, 70° 52‘ 17‖ E).
6. Shri Adinath Jain Temple, Amar Sagar Village (26° 55‘ 45‖ N, 70° 52‘ 18‖ E).
16
7. Gajroop Sagar Tunnel, Gajroop Sagar Village (26° 56‘ 50‖ N, 70° 55‘ 44‖ E).
8. Gajroop Sagar Well, Gajroop Sagar Village (26° 56‘ 41‖ N, 70° 55‘ 54‖ E).
9. Gadisagar Pond (26°54'31.14"N, 70°55'14.33"E)
Plate-3.2: Megachiroptera, Indian Flying fox on the roost at Gadisar Pond in Jaisalmer.
As per the literature survey (Purohit & Senacha 2004) it is found that the diversity and density
of bats is much lower in this region compared to Jodhpur and other parts of Rajasthan. This
could be due to the inherent characteristics of the region. Extreme climatic conditions and
semi arid, arid condition prevails in the region and that does not support higher diversity of the
bats in this part of the desert. Moreover, all the roosts of bats were located inside and close
periphery of the Jaisalmer town. No roost was found in and round or any close proximity to
the proposed Wind farm project site. The population estimation of the microchiropteran
species was difficult becuase of the limitation of counting opportunities and inaccessible sites.
However, the population of megachirecptora was found to be between 125-150 individuals
only. This includes counts at two roosts i.e. Gajroop Sagar village and Gadisagar Pond
(Plate-3.2).
17
3.2.4. Bat Species in the project area
Presence of the microchiropteran bat species in the project area was difficult to study
because of their smaller size and nocturnal behaviour. However, during our field visits it was
possible to observe megachiroptera species such as Indian Flying Fox due to its larger size
and their timing of leaving roost was in dusk. We tried to record the presence of Indian Flying
Fox in three points in the project site between 6:45 to 7:45 PM.
The results of our observations efforts suggest absence of any fruit bats/megachiroptera
species. During the period of our observations, there was not a single bat (Indian Flying Fox)
was seen in the observation areas. Upon interviewing local people, our own understanding of
the region and literature survey it was believed that the bats were not moving through the
proposed project site. This could be because of the unavailability of food resources for the
species in monotonous arid habitat. No presence of large trees & fruit bearing trees could
also be one of the reasons for absence of fruit bats movement through the region.
3.3. Migratory waterbird Flyway/routes:
Each year over 100 million waterbirds migrate through the Asian, Southeast Asian and
Australasian region. During migration, these waterbirds rely on a chain of highly productive
wetlands to rest and feed, building up sufficient energy to fuel the next phase of their journey.
This chain of wetland is normally called as migratory bird flyway. Therefore, A Flyway is the
total area used by a group of species during its entire life cycle. The term can be used to
describe such area for a single species, but also to indicate such area for all populations
migrating through it. India falls on the Central Asian Flyway (Plate-3.3).
In the context of the present study, the migratory waterbird flyway is a broad consideration.
This is because the migratory birds do not take only one trajectory, they fly over a broad
region choosing wetlands on their way for resting and feeding. In the present study we found
that there are no major wetlands which are located in 10 km periphery of the project site. This
could be further confirmed by viewing the project site and its periphery in the Google Earth.
Since the proposed project is located far away from the wetlands, it is less likely to fall on the
migratory water bird‘s active flyway or routes. Therefore the proposed project is less likely to
affect the migratory waterbirds and their populations.
18
Plate-3.3: Central Asian Flyway for migratory birds (Wetlands International).
Plate-3.4: Migratory Crane Flyway (Source International Crane Foundation Website)
19
It is also observed from the literature survey, that some of the migratory crane i.e. Demoiselle
Crane (Anthropoides virgo) avoids extremely harsh winter climatic conditions of Thar Desert
particularly areas around Jaisalmer (Plate-3.4).
3.4. Natural habitats/Protected Areas
Some of the major concerns about wind energy projects is their proximity to the natural
habitats/biodiversity hotspots. It is therefore important to evaluate whether the wind farm
project site occupies any natural habitats or ecosystems if yes what are the impacts. In
context to Thar Desert Biome, only grasslands ecosystem is considered as one of the most
important natural habitats as they harbour considerable biological diversity. However, in
context to present project site we evaluated the presence of 1) Grasslands, 2) Wetlands and
3) Protected areas.
3.4.1. Grasslands
Duirng our field visits we observed that there are no major grassland patches located within
the proposed project site boundary. Majority of the project site land is covered with scanty
vegetation particularly Caparis deciduas, Acacia nilotica, Prosopis cineraria and Calotropis
procera as dominant vegetation (Plate-3.5). This is probably because of the moving
sandunes, low rainfall, extreme climatic conditions coupled with inherent geological and
hydrological features of the land.
Plate-3.5: Representative vegetation and habitat types present in the project site.
20
3.4.2. The Desert National Park
The Desert National Park is one of the Important Bird Areas (IBAs) identified by Birdlife
International. The National Park has 3162 km2 of area. It is given protected form by the
Government of India as National Park in 1992. This national park is created in order to protect
unique biodiversity and habitat representing Thar Desert. The area is home to many rare,
endangered birds and animal species. The Desert National Park is located at 60 Km distance
from the project boundary (Map-3.1). Primarily the Desert National Park is known for
supporting large populations of birds of Bustard family i.e. Great Indian Bustard, Houbara
Bustard and Lesser Florican. Of these, Great Indian Bustard and Lesser Floricans are known
to breed in good numbers and Houbara Bustards are known to winter in this landscape. This
Important Bird Area (IBA) is known to harbour 3 critically endangered species, 2 vulnerable
species, and 9 near threatened species (IBA Book).
Map-3.1: Desert National Park and the proposed project site in Jaisalmer district.
Due to 60 kilometre distance of the project site from the boundary of the Desert National
Park, the project is less likely to affect its natural habitats and fauna of the DNP. Historically
the project site could have supported all the representative birds and animals of the Thar
Desert, but in the current time it is less likely to support them due to various types of
21
disturbances and developments taking place in Thar Desert. It is believed that the flagship
species of the Park i.e. Great Indian Bustard population is declining rapidly (Dutta et al 2010).
3.4.3. Wetlands
Wetlands are the most important hotspot for birds and that too migratory birds. Majority of the
migratory birds are waterbirds and they spend entire winter in a wetland. Therefore, large
wetlands which sustain water till winter are considered migratory bird hotspots and wind farm
development in the vicinity of such wetlands should be done carefully to prevent mortalities of
birds.
Map-3.2: Landuse types in and around proposed project site showing absence of wetlands.
During our survey we found that there are no major wetlands in and around the project site
(Map-3.2). There are one or two very small seasonal ponds located in and around the project
site. These ponds are near Dangri and Bhesda villages. These small ponds does not hold
water for longer duration and therefore, do not harbour significant populations of the
waterbirds. The abasence of major wetlands in and around the proposed project site
suggests that, there is no possibility of project site falling on the migratory bird‘s movement
path or annual migration.
22
3.5. Threatened Birds species
3.5.1. Great Indian Bustard
The Indian Bustard is large handsome bird inhabiting short grass plains of Indian
subcontinent (Rahmani 2006). The Indian Bustard is the second heaviest bird that could fly in
the world. It is the flagship species of our grassland ecosystem especially in arid to semiarid
biogeographic zones of India. The Indian Bustard could well be considered as indicator of the
health of grasslands, therefore conserving it in its natural habitat would lead to conservation of
the entire ecosystem and species there in.
The Indian Bustard is probably one of the most endangered members of the Bustard
Family(Plate-3.6). The species is protected as Schedule-I in under Indian Wildlife Protection
Act (1972). Indian Bustard is categorized by IUCN Red Data Book as critically endangered
C1. C2b Vulnerable D1 hence qualifies as an endangered because of its very small and
declining population. Formally it was widely distributed from Punjab and West Bengal in the
North to Tamilnadu in South and Sindh (Pakistan), in the west to Orissa in the East (Rahmani
2006). At present the Indian Bustard is distributed in 6 states of India which include Gujarat,
Rajsthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. It is locally extinct
from almost 90% of its former range and ironically it has disappeared from three sanctuaries
made especially for its protection (Rahmani 2006).
In other sanctuaries it is declining rapidly. Earlier it was mainly poaching and habitat
destruction that resulted in such a pitiable situation of this grand bird of the Indian grassy
plains, but now mismanagement of the habitat, sentimental protection of certain problem
animals, insecure and confusing tenurial systems, apathy and ignoring of scientific advice
now exacerbates the threats faced by this species in India (Rahmani 2006). Conservationists
today strongly believe that the Indian Bustard is now on the brink of extinction in Indian
subcontinent as their population could be as low as only 300 birds in the world. The Indian
Bustard once common in Rajasthan has also experienced a sharp decline in terms of its
population and a heavy shrinkage in its distribution range in compared to the past. In
Rajasthan, the Desert National Park in the districts of Jaiselmer and Barmer along with the
agro-pastoral landscapes of Bikaner holds the largest global population of the GIB currently
numbering between 100 and 125 birds, along with another 25–50 birds in Ajmer, Pali, and
Tonk districts (Rahmani 2006).
23
Plate-3.6: Great Indian Bustards in Grasslands.
According to Birdlife International Species Factsheet- 2012, major threats to the species are
widespread hunting for sport and food precipitated its decline, accelerated by vehicular
access to remote areas. Some poaching continues, including one documented case where
mine-workers that lost their livelihoods when mines near Gwalior were closed for the creation
of the Ghatigaon Bustard Sanctuary hunted bustards to undermine the criteria on which the
area was first designated as a sanctuary. Egg-collecting is a threat in the states of Karnataka
and Andhra Pradesh. The current key threats are habitat loss, modification and fragmentation
as a result of widespread agricultural development and land-use change, particularly
conversion of large areas to intensive crop cultivation, irrigation schemes (to convert areas to
rice paddy), increased pesticide usage and livestock-grazing, and high levels of disturbance.
Increases in the construction of irrigation canals and use of pesticides are highlighted as on-
going threats in Maharashtra state. Some habitat is also threatened by mining operations and
conversion to plantations. Inappropriate protected area management and increasing
instances of nest-trampling are further problems. In some areas, the species suffers an
increasing level of disturbance by dogs from nearby villages. Threats posed by infrastructure
development, such as collisions with vehicles, power-lines and wind turbines, further
exacerbate the situation. However according to a recent study by Khan et al, 2008, the major
threat to Great Indian Bustard is its rampant hunting in Pakistan side of Thar Desert. In about
24
four years, nearly 49 out of 63 birds sighted were killed. The bird is under intense pressure of
human persecution and trade (Khan et al, 2008).
During our field visit, we did not observe this bird in the project area or its surroundings.
Moreover, the records of recent past suggest that there are no Great Indian Bustards sighted
in the project area. Even interview survey (Plate-3.7) of local villagers, elderly villagers,
herders etc. suggested that the Great Indian Bustard does not occur in the areas of proposed
project villages.
The local people informed us that the Great Indian Bustard is now seen in areas such as
Bandh Khujala, Ramgadh, Raghwa, Sewa, Raimala, Sadhna,Nagga kiRani, Nagga, Tejpala,
Nehdai, Sudasari etc. However, they informed that they have not seen Great Indian Bustard
in project villages where they often graze their livestock in this land.
Plate: 3.7: Interview of local people to know the status of endangered birds in the project area.
According to local people, the increasing human population in the region, developmental
activities, tourism and hunting are responsible for Great Indian Bustard and other bustard‘s
species not being sighted in these areas. Local people‘s views are often provides most
reliable information on the wildlife and are often used as an indices to study the rare and
endangered species.
Major threats envisaged to Great Indina Bustard population in Rajasthan are-
Poaching- (in Pakistan & Rajasthan).
Habitat Loss- due to conversion of grasslands in to agriculture, irrigation schemes
25
Direct disturbances- vehicular access, increasing human population, agriculture
In appropriate Protected area management practices
Roads, electric poles, windmills etc. have have increased the severity of habitat
degradation
In view of our field surveys, interview surveys and literature review it is understood that
proposed project is less likely to affect Great Indian Bustard. The following reasons are
mentioned as explanations for the same.
The guidelines for the ―Great Indian Bustard Recovery Programme‖ by the Ministry of
Environment and Forests, Government of India (2011) also recognized that It is
extremely important to protect the breeding sites from all human-induced disturbances
and reduce poaching to nil. Securing these two life history phases is likely to revive the
declining trend of Great Indian Bustard populations. Low intensity poaching still
persists within India outside protected areas. Given the life history traits of Great Indian
Bustard, this level of removal threatens its extinction in immediate future.
The distribution map shown in Dutta et al 2010 and Guidelines for Great Indian
Bustard Recovery Plan does not seem to be based on updated facts as per our
understanding. Munjpara et al 2011 has clearly defined distribution of the species in
Gujarat.
During our survey we noticed that the proposed project site and its surrounding areas
does not offer any breeding sites to Great Indian Bustards. As there are no grasslands
present. Moreover, local herders and graziers are also not aware of the presence of
the species in and around the proposed project site.
Therefore two major threats (poaching and breeding habitat loss) to the species that
are likely to bring extinction of the species are not likely to be aggravated by the
proposed project development.
26
4. Impact Analysis
4.1. Analysis to Predict the Potential Impacts on Birds.
An important study and comprehensive literature reviewed by Langston & Pullan 2004, has
listed out several impacts of wind farm on the bird groups. Keeping these known impacts as
reference for the present study, we developed a matrix (Table-4.1) where observations of the
present study were juxtaposed against the known impacts (Langston & Pullan 2004) on bird
groups.
Langston & Pullan 2004, based on extensive literature survey, has listed 4 major threats on
several bird groups. These threats are 1) Disturbance leading to displacement of bird groups,
2) Barrier to movements 3) Collision with turbine blades, and 4) Direct habitat loss. In order to
predict the impacts of proposed project with respect to the above listed threats, all the bird
species recorded in the study area were classified by their species groups. The spatio-
temporal distribution of these species groups were seen against the known threats to predict
the impacts of proposed project (Table-4.1).
Using known impacts (Langston & Pullan 2004) of windfarm on various bird groups, we
predicted impacts as Low, Moderate and High. We analyzed the information on birds/groups
collected during the field visits in a matrix form and tried to predict the impacts of windfarm
project. The information on abundance, spatio-temporal distribution, status, habits, habitats
of various bird groups were used for predicting level of impacts and their reasons.
Total 66 species belonged to 11 bird groups/orders. During our assessment we found that
birds belong to order Passeriformes, were at moderate risk, where as birds belonging to all 10
other orders were at lower level of risk. This is because majority of the bird groups were
occurring at very low abundances, there were very few species respresenting some of the
bird groups, and some groups were either absent in the project area or their species number
were low in the project area. Moreover, majority of waterbirds and grassland birds would be at
very low risk as there are no major wetlands and grasslands present inside or in the close
periphery of the project area.
Some of the known impacts (Langston & Pullan 2004) predicted in reference to the proposed
project are described as follow.
27
Table-4.1: Bird group wise comparison with known impacts
No Bird Species group
Impacts (As per
Langston & Pullan
2004, Bidrdlife
International study)
species reported in and around
project site the present study Predicted
level of
Impact on
the
species
groups
due to
project
Reasons for predicted impacts for the project
Dis
turb
an
ce
Dis
pla
cem
en
t
Barr
ier
to
mo
vem
en
t
Co
llis
ion
Dir
ect h
ab
itat lo
ss
To
tal S
pecie
s
Sp
ecie
s r
ep
ort
ed
in p
roje
ct site
Hab
it
Hab
itats
1 Accipitridae (Raptors)
√
√
13 2 Diurnal Grassland Scrubland
Low Only 2 species recorded in project site, No breeding sites recorded, low encounter rate/ abundance, half of them are migratory species which would be absent in summer/high wind speed duration.
2 Alcidae (Kingfishers)
√
√ √ 1 0 Diurnal Wetlands Low Only 1 species reported, that too outside project area, Mostly diurnal & wetland species, no major wetlands in and around project aera.
3 Caprimulgidae (nightjars)
√
√ √ 1 0 Noctornal Grassland Scrubland
Low Low abundance, not reported from project site
4 Charadriiformes (Waders)
√ √
3 1 Diurnal Wetlands, scrubland
Low All reported species are solitary species, Only 1 species reported from the project site, Mostly diurnal & wetland species, no major wetlands in and around project aera.
5 Ciconiiformes (Herons & Storks)
√
1 1 Diurnal Wetlands, Agriculture
Low Mostly diurnal wetland species, No major wetlands in and around the project site.
6 Columbidae ( Doves & Pigeons)
√
4 4 Diurnal Agriculture Low Mostly diurnal & solitary secies, most common species with wider distribution across the region, not threatened species
7 Coraciidae ( Rollers &
Hoopoo) √
3 2 Diurnal
Scrubland Agriculture
Low Only 3 species reported, one of them is migratory, mostly diurnal & solitary secies with low abundance,no breeding sites reported in project area.
8 Cuculidae (cuckoo)
√
1 0 Diurnal Agriculture, Scrubland
Low Mostly diurnal & solitary secies with low abundance
9 Passeriformes
√
36 26 Diurnal All habitats Moderate No threatened species in this group, lower flight height during movements therefore can avoid the turbines, mostly small in size and diurnal
10 Tetraonidae (Grouse)
√
√ √ 1 1 Diurnal Scubland, grassland
Low only one species, diurnal therefore can avoid the turbines.
11 Gali formes √
√ √ 2 0 Diurnal Grassland Scubland
Low Not reported from the project aera, mostly diurnal, not threatened species
28
4.1.1. Disturbance leading to displacement of bird groups
Since not many speices are found to breed in the project area, the disturbance leading to
displacement of birds would be very low. Our data suggests (Table-4.1) that only 4 species
are likely to be affected by the project. All these 4 species are most common species which
are abundant throughout the region. All of the species reported common and listed as
Schedule-IV in the Indian Wildlife Protection Act 1972, and as Least Concerned by IUCN.
4.1.2. Barrier to movements
This impact is more prone to the waterbirds and waterdependent species, it includes Ducks &
Geese, Waders and Cranes. These bird groups are generally known to fly in large flocks or
move near wetlands. However, in case of the present project, there are no wetlands in and
around project site and therefore, the project may not pose significant threat to these bird
groups. Only 3 species are reported in this group, and all the 3 species are solitary and
diurnal in their habits therefore the project is less likely to be barrier to their movements.
4.1.3. Collision with turbine blades
Majority of the bird groups are prone to collision with the turbines (except Waders,Cormorants
and Grebes). Total 36 species are shown to be affected by the collision in our analysis
(Table 4.1). However, many of the species are solitary, diurnal, having low flights during local
movements, and their major habitats are being away from the project site, they are likely to be
less affected. Moreover, no rare, endangered, endemic or threatened species are listed in
this group.
4.1.4. Direct habitat loss
Majority of the ground nesting birds such as Sandgrouse are likely to experience gross loss of
their habitat worth the project area. However only one species i.e. Chestnut-bellied
Sandgrouse is found to be in and around the project area. This species is considered as
Least Concerned by IUCN and in Schedule-IV in the Wildlie Protection Act in India.
Therefore, only one species which occur at very low abundance is likely to be affected by the
project development.
4.2. Analysis to predict the potential impacts on Bats.
As per our observations it is evident that there are only four species of bats present in the
vicinity of the project. Majoiryt of the bat species hotspot/roosting sites are away from project
29
site i.e. minimum 50 km at Lodurva village (Amar Sagar Garden & Adinath Jain Temple). The
flight direction of megachiroptera (fruit bats) suggested that the bats move towards the
agriculture area in north towards the Indira Gandhi Canal. Therfore, the project site does not
fall near to their roosting sites or movement path and suggests that the impacts of proposed
wind farm project could be very low on bats.
4.3. Analysis to evaluate overall impacts.
Based on the collected information and data on various aspects, we made an effort to draw
general inferences from each of the aspects that are listed in the following Table-4.2. This
information is used for making conclusions as following.
Table-4.2: General inferences drawn from the baseline status on various aspects of the study.
No Parameter studied Impacts
Reasons Birds Bats
1 Status of the birds and Bats
Low Very low No endemic or threatened species, no major habitatst found in and around project area
2 Interview survey Very low Very low No presence of endangered species such as Great Indian Bustard etc. due to disturbances, poaching, development pressure
3 Desert National Park/Natural habitats
Very low
Located at 60 Km distance hence no impacts on this habitat
4 Great Indian Bustard/ endangered specise
Very low
Distribution in Desert National Park at 60 km away & lower population
5 Important Bird Areas/ bird receptors
Very low Very low DNP 60 km away from project site, no major wetlands and grasslands in and around project site
6 Roosting colonies of bats & their mortalities
Very low Very low Located at 50 km away from project site.
7 Migratory waterbird routes Very low
Routes are broad and are not restricted over project site, no wetlands in and around project site
8 Literature review Very low Very low No significant impacts are envisaged
30
5. Proposed Mitigation Measures It is largely believed that any industrial development is essentially a destructive activity, where
ecology suffers at the altar of economy, fortunately for wind energy projects, it is not true. It is
therefore the harvesting of wind energy has widespread encouragement as it does not harm
or cause any environmental degradation and adverse impacts on environment. However, if
wind farms are developed in and around forest and wildlife areas, there are still wide concern
about their placements and conservation of habitats and species.
Careful and environmentally responsible industrial operations accompanied by ecological
restoration, judicious use of resources, with search for eco-friendly substitutes and
alternatives provide the answer to our worries and concerns for the environment. Several
care and precautions to be taken for environmentally responsible industrial activities are
proposed in the form of environmental management plan for the wind farm development
project.
5.1. Annual Monitoring of Bird hits and Mortality:
During the present study, our sampling and observation did not suggest any higher chances
of mortality or damage to the birds by the proposed project. However, these observations was
for a short duration, therefore, It is suggested that annual monitoring of windmills be carried
out in order to understand if there are any significant mortality of birds or disturbance to them
due installation of windmills in the project area. Though, there are not many cases of bird hits
with windmills have been observed in India till date, it is important that proposed sites should
be monitored properly and specifically for bird mortalities.
5.2. Precautions to avoid disturbance to wildlife
Though, endemic or threatened bird and bat species have not been reported in and around
the proposed project area, prior to commencing any construction activities such as excavation
etc., a thorough survey for presence of ground nesting birds should be carried out. On a
precautionary principle, the company staff should check for the presence of Indian Bustard,
Lesser Floricans or Houbara Bustards. If any of the Bustard species are found in the project
area, the company staff should immediately stop the construction or transportation (till the bird
leaves the area safely or completes the nesting activities) in order to minimize disturbance to
the birds.
31
5.3. Regular removal of carcasses from the project areas
Dead animal (cow, buffalo, camel etc.) carcasses attracts large number of vultures and
raptors. Duirng and after construction of the wind farm, the project staff should monitor the
project area for any presence of such large animal carcasses. If there is any communal
dumping ground of such carcasses present in and around the project site, they should be
removed away from the project site. The villagers should be convienced and the dumping
ground of cattle carcasses could be taken at least 5-10 km away from the project site
boundary.
5.4. Training of Project Personals
In order to avoid any accidents, poaching or harassments to any bird species by the project
staff involved in construction or operation, such as labourers, drivers or any other employees,
a training program should be carried out. During training they should be made aware of the
presence of various bird species in the project area and surrounding area. They should be
trained in identification of Great Indian Bustard etc. so that if there is any sightings of this
species or any of the Bustard species located in the project area, appropriate measures are
taken immediately.
5.5. Post Construction Planning and management
After the completion of the construction work, company should restore the area in terms of
any damage caused to the public roads, or drainage etc. in and around the project site. There
are several activities suggested which the company should take up as Corporate Social
Responsibility.
a. Restoration of damaged (if any) roads, trails, drainages, etc.
b. Plantation of native trees in other areas selected in consultation with biologists or
with local forest officials.
c. The species suggested for plantation are: Acacia nilotica- Desi babul, Salvadora
oleoides- Mithi Pilu, Salvadora persica- Khari Piiu
d. The company should generously support the management activities of the Desert
National Park by contributing mutually agreeable funds to the Rajasthan Forest
Department. The funds for various activities such as boundary demarcation,
grassland improvement, purchase of equipments (such as GPS, Binoculars,
Spotting Scopes etc.), vehicles (such as motorbikes for forest guards) which are
needed for better management and protection of the Desert National Park.
32
6. Conclusions
The baseline status of the birds and bats clearly suggests that no endemic or
threatened species is present in and around the proposed project area.
The sensitive receptors such as habitats of Bird‘s & Bat‘s i.e. Desert National
Park/Grassland, Wetland and roosting sites of bats do not fall in and around the
project area and they are located at a substantial distances.
Great Indian Bustard and other endangered species are less likely to be affected
because of their very small surviving population in Jaisalmer district and it is currently
restricted in Desert National Park.
Our observation on movement of bats from Jaisalmer roosts suggests that majority of
the bats were moving towards the agriculture fields aligned along the Indira Gandhi
Canal 40 km north of Jaisalmer town.
Interview survey of local villagers and herders suggested the absence of Bustards
from the project area due to disturbance, developmental activities and general
increase in the human population and their movements in the region.
Literature survey suggested that Rajasthan/India falls on Central Asian Flyway which
is broadly defined flyway for several migratory birds and there is no specific bird route
that passes only through the Jaisalmer or Rajasthan as such.
Literature survey also suggested that wind turbines do not significantly harm the
migratory waterbirds, especially when the wetlands are located far away from the
proposed project site.
33
7. References Baqri, Q. H. and P. L. Kankane (2002) Deserts: Thar. Pp. 93-109. In Alfred, J. R. B., Das, A.
K. and Sanyal, A. K. (2002) Ecosystems of India, ENVIS-Zool. Surv. India, Kolkata: 1-410.
Barrios L. 1995. Energ´ıa eo´lica y aves en el Campo de Gibraltar. La Garcilla 93: 39–41.
BirdLife International (2012) Species factsheet: Ardeotis nigriceps. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org on 14/03/2012.
Dirksen S., Winden J.V.D. and Spaans A.L. 1998. Nocturnal collision risks of birds with wind
turbines in tidal and semi-offshore areas. In: Ratto C.F. and Solari G. (eds), Wind Energy and Landscape. Balkema, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, pp. 99–107.
Dutta Sutirtha., Asad R. Rahmani., Yadvendradev V. Jhala. 2010. Running out of time? The
great Indian bustard Ardeotis nigriceps—status, viability, and conservation strategies. Eur J Wildl Res DOI 10.1007/s10344-010-0472-z
Higgins K.F., Osborn R.G., Dieter C.D. and Usgaard R.E. 1996. Monitoring of Seasonal Bird
Activity and Mortality at the Buffalo Ridge Wind Resource Area, Minnesota, 1994–1995. South Dakota Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, National Biological Service, Brookings, South Dakota.
Hunt G. 1999. A Population Study of Golden Eagles in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource
Area. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Santa Cruz, California. Khan Aleem Ahmed, Imran Khaliq, Muhammad Jamshed Iqbal Choudhry, Amjad Farooq
and Nazim Hussain. 2008. Status, threats and conservation of the Great Indian Bustard Ardeotis nigriceps (Vigors) in Pakistan. Current Science, vol. 95, no. 8, 25 October 2008.
Langston R.H. W, Pullan J. D., 2004., Effect of Windfarm on Birds. Convention on the
conservation of European Wildlife and Habitats(Bern Convention).Nature and Environment No. 139.
Larsen J.K.; Madsen J. 2000. Effects of wind turbines and other physical elements on field
utilization by pink-footed geese (Anser brachyrhynchus): A landscape perspective., Landscape Ecology, Volume 15, Number 8, December 2000 , pp. 755-764(10).
Leddy K.L., Higgins K.F. and Naugle D.E. 1999. Effects of wind turbine on upland nesting
birds in conservation reserve program grasslands. Wilson Bulletin 111: 100–104. Morrison M.L. and Sinclair K. 1998. Avian Risk and Fatality Protocol. National Renewable
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Ardeotis nigriceps (Gruiformes: Otididae) in Gujarat State, India Journal of Threatened Taxa Short Communication 3(9): 2090–2094
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Musters C.J.M., Noordervliet M.A.W. and Terkeus W.J. 1996. Bird casualties caused by a wind energy project in an estuary. Bird Study 43: 124–126.
Nelson, H. K. and R. C. Curry. 1995. Assessing avian interactions with windplant
development and operation. Trans. N. Am. Wildl. Conf 60:266–287. Orloff S. and Flannery A. 1992. Wind Turbine Effects on Avian Activity, Habitat Use, and
Mortality in Altamont Pass and Solano County Wind Resource Areas. California Energy Commission (CEC), Sacramento, California.
Orloff S.G. and Flannery A.W. 1993. Wind turbine effects on avian activity, habitat use, and mortality in the Altamont Pass and Solano County Wind Resource Areas. In: Huckabee J.W. (ed.), Avian Interactions with Utility Structures. Avian Power Line Interactions Committee (APLIC). Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, California, pp. 1–14.
Osborn R.G., Dieter C.D., Higgins K.F. and Usgaard R.E. 1998. Bird flight characteristics near
wind turbines in Minnesota. The American Midland Naturalist 139: 28–38. Osborn R.G., Higgins K.F., Usgaard R.E., Dieter C.D. and Neiger R.D. 2000. Bird mortality
associated with wind turbines at the Buffalo Ridge Wind Resource Area, Minnesota. The American Midland Naturalist 143: 41–52.
Purohit Ashok, Senacha Kalu Ram. 2004. Distribution of bats in and around Jaisalmer of the
Great Indian Desert, India Vespertilio 8: 99–104, 2004.ISSN 1213-6123. Rahmani, A. R. (1997a) Wildlife of the Thar. WWF India, New Delhi. 100 pp. Rahmani AR (2006) Need to start project bustards. Bombay Natural History Society, Mumbai. Rodgers, W. A., Panwar, H. S. and Mathur, V. B. (2000) Wildlife Protected Area Network in
India: A Review (Executive Summary). Wildlife Institute of India, Dehra Dun. Pp. 44.
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35
Annexure-I: Checklist of birds found in the study area (10 km radius of project area and project areas).
No Common Name Scientific Name
Conservation
Status as per
IWPA-1972
(Schedule I to
VI)
Conservation
Status as per
IUCN
Recorded
in 10 Km
radius *
Observed
in Project
site
during
field visit
Migratory
Record
ed
Breedig
in
Project
site
1 Ashy Crowned Sparrow Lark Eremopterix griseus) Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
2 Bay-Backed Shrike Lanius vittatus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
3 Black drongo Dicrurus macrocercus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
4 Blue rock pigeon Columba livia Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
5 Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops superciliosus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
6 Bonelli's Eagle Hieraaetus fasciatus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
7 Brahminy Myna Sturnia pagodarum Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
8 Cattle egret Bulbulcus ibis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
9 Chestnut-Bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exustus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
10 Chestnut-shouldered Petronia Petronia xanthocollis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
11 Common Babbler Turdoides caudatus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
12 Common Hoopoe Upupa epops Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
13 Common Iora Aegithina tiphia Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
14 Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
15 Common myna Acridotheres tristis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
16 Common Raven Corax corax subcorax Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
17 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
18 Common Woodshrike Tephrodornis pondicerianus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
19 Crested Lark Galerida cristata Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
20 Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
21 Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
22 Eurasian Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
23 Eurasian collared dove Streptopelia decaocto Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
36
24 Eurasian Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
25 Eurasian Thick-knee Burhinus oedicnemus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
26 European Roller Coracias garrulus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
27 Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
28 Greater Short-toed lark Calandrella brachydactyla Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
29 Green bee eater Merops orientalis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
30 Grey francolin Francolinus pondicerianus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
31 Grey-breasted Prinia Prinia hodgsonii Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
32 House crow Corvus splendens Schedule-V Least Concern 1 1
33 House sparrow Passer domesticus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
34 House Swift Apus affinis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
35 Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus Schedule-I Least Concern 1
36 Indian robin Saxicoloides fulicata Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
37 Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
38 Indian silverbill Lonchura malabarica Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
39 Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
40 Laughing dove Streptopelia senegalensis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
41 Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
42 Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
43 Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
44 Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
45 Oriental magpie robin Copsychus saularis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
46 Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
47 Red vented bulbul Pycnonotus cafer Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
48 Red wattled lapwing Vanellus indicus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
49 Red-collared Dove Streptopelia tranquebarica Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
50 Rosy Starling Sturnus roseus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
51 Rufous-tailed Scrub-Robin, Erythropygia galactotes Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
52 Rufus tailed lark Ammomanes phoenicurus Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
53 Shikra Accipiter badius Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
37
54 Singing Bushlark Mirafra cantillans Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
55 Southern Grey-Shrike Lanius meridionalis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
56 Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
57 Spotted Owlet Athene brama Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
58 Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
59 Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
60 Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
61 Variable Wheatear Oenanthe picata opistholeuca Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1 1
62 White-Breasted kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
63 White-eared Bulbul Pycnonotus leucotis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
64 White-eyed Buzzard Butastur teesa Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
65 White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis Schedule-IV Least Concern 1
66 Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava Schedule-IV Least Concern 1 1
Total 66 37 19 8
38
Annexure- 2: Curriculam Vitae of the Expert
Dr. Bharat Jethva (Wildlife Biologist) ACADEMIC QUALIFICATION:
1. Ph.D. in Ecological & Wildlife Sciences-FEB-23 from Wildlife Institute of India-FRI
Deemed University-. Thesis title: Feeding Ecology and Habitat Needs of Wolves in the
Bhal Area of Gujarat).
2. M.Phil., Zoology, 1995 Department of Zoology, School of Sciences, Gujarat University
Ahmedabad. (Topic of M. Phil. Thesis: Short term Treatment of Fluoride and its
Reversal on Kidney, Liver and Muscle of Male Mice).
3. M.Sc., Zoology 1994 (with special subject as Reproductive physiology and
Endocrinology). Department of Zoology, School of Sciences, Gujarat University
Ahmedabad. India
4. B.Sc., Zoology, 1992 from Bahauddin College-Junagadh, Saurashtra University
Gujarat, India.
WORK EXPERIENCE: 1. More than 16 years of experience in the field of Wildlife Research and Conservation
with special emphasis on Endangered species, Birds, Wetlands, Coastal and Marine
Ecosystems, Grasslands and Desert Ecosystems and Environmental Impact
Assessments.
2. Asian Waterbird Census Coordinator with Wetlands International South Asia, New
Delhi, Setp-28-June 211.
3. Scientist at GEER Foundation, Gandhinagar, September 23-August 28.
4. Senior Research Fellow in the Conservation of the India Wolf Research Project at
Wildlife Institute of India from January-2 to August 23.
5. Junior Research Fellow, in the Conservation of the India Wolf Research Project at
Wildlife Institute of India. From December-1997 to December-1999.
6. Technical Assistant on Conservation of the Indian Wolf Research Project at Wildlife
Institute of India. From November 1995 to December 1997.
MEMBERSHIPS:
1. Member of IUCN-Flamingo Specialist Group.
2. Member International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME)
3. Member Executive Committee, Mangrove Society of India (MSI)
4. Member Sirenian International, USA
5. Indian Bird Conservation Network (IBCN)
6. Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat
39
PEER REVIEWED PUBLICATIONS:
1. Jethva B. D. and Jhala Y. V. 24. Computing biomass consumption from prey
occurrences in Indian wolf scats. ZooBiology, Volume 23, Issue 6, Pages 513 - 52.
2. Jethva B. D. and Jhala Y. V. 23. Foraging Ecology, Economics and Conservation of
Indian Wolves in the Bhal Region of Gujarat, Western India. Biological
Conservation: 116: 351-357.
3. Jethva B. D. and Jhala Y. V. 23. Sample Size Considerations for Food Habits Studies
of Wolves from Scats: Mammalia 67: 589-591
4. Sankar K, Jethva B. 22. Notes on Food habits of Stripped Hyena (Hyena hyena) in
Sariska Tiger Reserve: short note in Journal of Bombay Natural History Society.
5. Ramesh Sabapara; Suresh Chugh; Bharat Jethva; Budhan Pukazhenth; David E.
Widt; Terri L. Roth (1994) A note on reproduction research. Asiatic Lion Population
Habitat Viability Analysis (PHVA) report, Vadodara, 1993
PROJECT REPORTS:
1. Status, distribution and habitat Survey of Great Indian Bustard Ardeotis nigriceps in
Gujarat, 28. Project sponsored by Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of
India.
2. Status of Gyps Vultures in Gujarat, 27- A comprehensive state-wide survey of vulture
nests and population. Project sponsored by Ministry of Environment and Forests,
Government of India. Published by GEER Foundation.
3. Biodiversity of Purna Wildlife Sanctuary a comprehensive ecological and socio-
economic study. Mammals and socio-economic studies 27.
4. Biodiversity of Jessore Wildlife Sanctuary a comprehensive ecological and socio-
economic study. Contribution in studies on mammals 28.
5. Movement Pattern of Wild Ass Across the Proposed Kachachh Branch Canal
(Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited) on the Northern Fringe of Wild Ass
Sanctuary in Gujarat, 26.
6. Status of Gyps Vultures in Gujarat, 25- A comprehensive state-wide survey of vulture
nests and population. Published by GEER Foundation
7. Proceedings of the workshop on “Cranes and Community in Gujarat-a holistic
conservation strategy for future‖ held on 23rd November-24 at GEER Foundation,
Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India.
8. Ecological Impacts of Lignite Mining in Kutch with Special Emphasis on the Indian
Grey Wolf and its Habitats, 1997. WII-EIA Technical Report No-19, Wildlife Institute of
India.
40
TRAININGS OBTAINED: 1. One week Regional Training Programme on Wetland Management and Conservation
held between 2-6th May 28 at GEER Foundation, Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
2. UNESCO Regional training program on Satellite Image Processing for Natural
Resources Management (21-31 January 22), conducted by Center for Geo-Sciences
and Engineering, Anna University, Chennai.
3. Animal Welfare Training Course 1995. Conducted by Animal Welfare Board of India,
Ministry of Environment and Forests held at Sakkarbaug Zoo, Junagadh Gujarat.
SELECTED PRESENTATIONS/ABSTRACTS : (International conferences)
1. Conservation Potential of Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) in Gujarat. National
workshop on Marine biodiversity and community held at GEER Foundation with the
support of MoEF, Government of India at Ahmedabad.
2. Jethva B. 25, Vulture Conservation initiatives in Gujarat, Abstract and Oral
Presentation in the conference of Society for Conservation Biology Asia Chapter
held in Kathmandu, Nepal, November-25.
3. Jethva B. 25, Crane Conservation and community in Gujarat, Abstract and Oral
Presentation in the conference of Society for Conservation Biology Asia Chapter
held in Kathmandu, Nepal November-25.
4. Jethva B and Jhala Y.V 23, Foraging ecology, economics, and conservation of Indian
wolves. Abstract for an oral presentation in International Wolf congress to be held
at Banff, Alberta Canada on September-25–28, 23.
5. Jhala Y.V., Jethva B, and Chauhan K, 21. The Role of Predation by Wolves (Canis
lupus pallipes) and Jackals (Canis aureus) on Blackbuck (Antelope cervicapra) in
Velavadar National Park, India. Presentation in International Canid Conference held
in Oxford University U.K.
6. Jethva B and Jhala Y.V 2, ―Food habits, Consumption and predation by wolves in the
Bhal, India, Abstract in an international symposium ―Beyond 2: Realities of Global Wolf
Restoration held at Duluth, Minnesota, USA, Feb-2.
7. Jethva B. and Jhala Y.V. 2. ―Ecological Impact Assessment of Lignite Mining in Kutch
India‖. Oral presentation given in an international symposium: Carnivore-2, held in
November-2 at Denver, Colorado. USA.