RAPID ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (REIA) For SPR BINNY PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

Transcription

1 RAPID ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (REIA) For SPR BINNY PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT At PERAMBUR VILLAGE, PURASAWALKAM-PERAMBUR TALUK, CHENNAI DISTRICT, TAMIL NADU August

2 GENERAL PROJECT TITLE Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment Study Report for the construct Mixed Use development project at RS No: 218/1, 2, 219/1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 220/2, Block 11, and RS No: 221/2, 222/1, 2, Block 12 of Perambur Village, Purasawalkam-Perambur Taluk, Chennai District in the state of Tamil Nadu. PROJECT LOCATION The proposed project is situated along the Stephens Road, Cooks Road and New Farrens Road adjacent to the road. PROJECT PROPONENTS M/s. SPR Constructions Pvt. Ltd., Sapna Trade Centre, 12th Floor, Old No: 109, New No:135,Poonamallee High Road, Chennai CONTACT PERSON Hitesh Kumar P Kawad. Managing Director SPR Construction Pvt. Limited Sapna Trade Centre, 12th Floor, Old No: 109, New No:135,Poonamallee High Road, Chennai hitesh@sprosian.com Mobile: FIRM OF EXPERTS Architect: R J Architects PVT LTD, Anna Nagar, Chennai Geotechnical Consultant: GEO Foundations Pvt. Ltd., PHE Consultant: Design Tree Service Consultants Pvt. Ltd Environmental Consultant: Eco Services India Pvt. Ltd., Chennai PROJECT COORDINATES 13 6'8.67"N 80 15'14.89"E Elevation: 2 M above MSL 2

3 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 PROJECT OVERVIEW M/s. SPR Constructions Pvt. Ltd., is one of the leading developers in Chennai which is developing Mixed used Development Project comprising of Residential Units, Club House, Shopping Center, Convention Center, Shopping Mall, Hotel, Schools, and Multilevel Car parking at RS No: 218/1, 2, 219/1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 220/2, Block 11, and RS No: 221/2, 222/1, 2, Block 12 of Perambur Village, Purasawalkam-Perambur Taluk, Chennai District., Tamil Nadu. In order to assess the potential environmental impacts arising out due to the construction and operation of the proposed project activities and to comply with the statutory requirements of the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) under the Environment (Protection) Act 1986, the project proponent retained M/s. Eco Services India Pvt. Ltd., Chennai to undertake Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment (REIA) study for the proposed project. The principal Environmental Regulatory Agency in India is the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), New Delhi. As per the notification of the MoEF dated and amendment dated , any construction project falling under entry 8 of Schedule-I shall not be undertaken in any part of India unless it is accorded environmental clearance by the Central Government in accordance with the procedures specified in the notification. As per the procedure, anybody who desires to undertake any construction project in any part of India shall apply to the MoEF, which shall include an Environmental Management Plan / Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report. Hence, as per the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification dated 14th September 2006 and amendments in 2009 & 2011, the proposed project falls under 'Category B1' with project or activity type number '8(b)', which require preparation of EIA Report to get Environmental Clearance from the State Environmental Impact assessment Authority (SEIAA). This EIA Report addresses the environmental impacts of the proposed project and proposes the mitigation measures for the same. The Report is prepared, based on the model TOR given in Environmental Impact Assessment Guidance Manual for Building Construction by Ministry of Environment & Forests (MOEF). Accordingly this report for the proposed construction project has been prepared for the perusal of statutory bodies (MoEF/ State Pollution Control Board) and to judge the environmental viability of the project. 1.2 PROJECT SITE LOCATION The project site is located at 13 6'8.67" North latitude and 80 15'14.89" East longitude. The site is located at RS No: 218/1, 2, 219/1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 220/2, Block 11, and RS No: 221/2, 222/1, 2, Block 12 of Perambur Village, Purasawalkam-Perambur Taluk, Chennai District, TamilNadu. It is easily accessible as it is well connected by roads. The site is situated in Perambur Village. The location map of the project area is given in the Figure

4 Figure 1.1: Index Map of the Project Area The project does not include any environmentally sensitive area. CMDA has earmarked the site as Commercial Use Zone. The environmental settings of the site are given below: Table 1.1: Details of Environmental Settings S. No. Particulars Details 1. Latitude 13 6'8.67"N 2. Longitude 80 15'14.89"E 3. Total Plot Area Sq.m 4. Land Use Category Commercial Use Zone 5. Nearest Highway Perambur High road 6. Nearest Railway Station Perambur Railway station (1.0 km) 7. Nearest Airport Chennai International Airport (15.0 km) 8. Nearest Harbour Chennai Harbour (4.73 km) 1.3 PROJECT SITE AND SURROUNDINGS DESCRIPTION The proposed project site is surrounded on the east by Otteri Nallah, whereas on the north by residential units. In all other sides, the site is surrounded by residential units and vacant lands. The shape of the plot is an irregular one and the terrain is quite flat without any undulations. There are no existing natural features which may affect the planning process. 1.4 CURRENT LAND USE AND OWNERSHIP The proposed project site lies in the commercial use category of the project area and is a part of the CMDA jurisdiction. The adjoining lands to the project site are essentially residential uses. Within 1 Km radius of the proposed project site, many residential units also exist. As there is requirement of substantial residential accommodation and commercial development for the neighborhood as well as for the Chennai city, the CMDA has categorized this site as Commercial use as per second master plan. No agricultural and industrial areas exist within the core zone of the proposed project site. The 4

5 proposed project site is designated for the intended purpose and land use of the plot area measuring Sq.m. meters is for Mixed Use development. 1.5 OBJECTIVES OF THE REIA STUDY The purpose of Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment (REIA) is to assist in the decision making process and to ensure that the project under consideration are environmentally sound and sustainable. REIA identifies the ways of improving project environmentally by preventing, minimizing, mitigating or compensating for adverse impacts. Urban development projects including housing and office complexes do have the potential in altering environmental resources of any urban area. They cause stress on local environmental assets of the urban area and could become the potential source for limiting the growth of the city. Unplanned construction and operation of such projects usually result in impacts on various facets of environment. Keeping above issues under considerations, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study is conducted which incorporates into development and planning process, a plan for environmental protection and conservation. The procedure identifies the possible positive and negative impacts on the environment likely to emanate as a result of construction and operation of a project. The EIA thus, provides for a plan which, upon implementation, will reduce or offset the negative impacts of a project resulting in a minimum level of environmental degradation. This minimization may be a result of implementation of a project modifications or environmental protection measures which simply reduces the severity or number or magnitude of negative impacts. The plan may also result in utilization of positive impacts for enhancement measures which offset negative impacts. To measure the level of plan implementation and the degree of effectiveness of the above environmental protection provisions, the EIA provides a monitoring programme. This programme is so designed that it identifies the parameters of uncertainty and measures the related impacts. It is necessary that there is close integration of EIA with various aspects of a project including financial and engineering aspects which ensures environmental consideration are given due weight in project selection, siting design and operation. Analysis of past experiences indicate that it is necessary to examine a number of problem areas in order to ensure that environmental concerns can be effectively integrated in the development process. Similar approach has been adopted while conducting the REIA study for the proposed residential complex. 1.6 STAGES IN THE REIA STUDY The purpose of this section is to enumerate the methodology for Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment (REIA) which has been followed for this study. Any activity involving construction and operation is expected to cause impacts on surrounding environment. The impacts may be adverse or beneficial, short term or long term, and reversible or irreversible. In order to assess the significance of impacts, various steps that are used in conducting an REIA within core and buffer zone around the proposed project construction site are divided into the following phases: Identification of significant environmental parameters and assessing the existing status within the impact zone with respect to air, water, noise, land, biological, and socioeconomic components of environment. Study of various activities of the proposed project components to identify the areas leading to impact/change in environmental quality. Identification of potential impacts on various environmental components due to the activities envisaged during pre-construction, construction, and operational phases of the proposed project. Prediction of significant impacts on the major environmental components using qualitative / quantitative techniques. Preparation of environmental impact statement based on the identification, prediction and evaluation of impacts. 5

6 Delineation of environmental management plan (EMP) outlining preventive and curative strategies for minimizing adverse impacts during pre-construction, construction and operational phases of the proposed project. Formulation of environment quality monitoring programme for construction and operational phases to be pursued by the project proponent. 1.7 THE TOR Model TOR issued by SEIAA for the project is as follows: Introduction Profile of the project proponent, name and contact address, implementing organization, organizational chart, project consultants etc., should be mentioned clearly. Land description plot / survey numbers, village, tehsil, district, state and area of the land must be mentioned clearly. Description of centre/state/local regulation and standards applicable for townships and area development projects should be discussed. Any litigation(s) pending against the proposed project and for any directions or orders passed by any court of law/any statutory authority against the project is to be detailed out Project description Goal and objectives of the proposed project, significance of the project both at local and regional level, relevance of the project in light of the existing development plans of the region are to be mentioned clearly. Background information and overall scenario of the proposed activity in the Indian context, procedures adopted for selection, criteria for selection of the site for the proposed activity, such as environmental, socio-economic, minimization of impacts, ecological sensitivity, Impact of existing activities on the proposed activity, etc., should be spelt out. Resource and manpower requirements have to detail. Time frame for project initiation, implementation and completion should be detailed. Total site area Total Built up area (provide floor wise break up details) and total activity area; permission letter from competent authority to utilize OSR area for greenbelt development Source of water and Consumption with supporting documents from competent for drawl Source of Power and requirement Source of power Connectivity to the city centre, utilities and transportations networks community facilities Parking requirements as per CMDA rules Type of building material to be used Environmental liability of the site Existing structure/type of material demolition debris etc. Essential Topo sheets/maps to be provided A map of the study area 5 km from the boundary of the project area, delineating the major topographical features such as land use, drainage, location of habitats, major construction including roads, railways, pipelines, industries if any in the area are to be mentioned. A map covering aerial distance of 15 Kms from the boundary of the proposed project area delineating the details of environmental sensitivity areas present within a radial distance of 10 kms from the project boundary shall be specifically shown 6

7 Remote sensing satellite imagery Land use map of the study area in 1: 10,000 scale based on high resolution satellite imagery delineating the forest, agricultural land, water bodies, settlements and other cultural features. Contour map Contour map on 1:10000 scale for the study area showing the various proposed breakup of the land. Description of the project site, geology, topography, climate, transport and connectivity, demographic aspects, socio, cultural and economic aspects, villages, settlements should be given. Details of environmentally sensitive places, land acquisition, rehabilitation of the communities/villages, and present status of such activities are to be mentioned. Historical data on climate conditions such as wind pattern, history of cyclones, storm surges, earth quake etc., for the last 25 years are to be given. Detailed layout plan of proposed project development, communication facilities, access/approach roads, landscape, sewage disposal facilities, and waste disposal etc., to be given. Layout plan of proposed development of built up areas with covered construction such as DG set rooms, administrative buildings, utilities such as main and standby power, water supply installations etc., to be given. Requirement of natural resources and their sources are to be detailed out Description of the Environment Environmental data to be considered in relation to township development would be: Land, (b) Ground water, surface water (c) AIR, (d) Biological environment, (e) Noise, (f) Socio Economical environment. Study area Map of the study area clearly delineating the location of various monitoring stations (air/water soil and noise) superimposed with location of habitats are to be shown. Monitoring should be done as per CPCB guidelines. Primary date should be collected for one season except rainy season. Monitoring of the parameters should be carried out within the study area. Land Environment Study of land use pattern, habitation, cropping pattern, forest cover, environmentally sensitive places etc, employing remote sensing techniques and ground truth. The following parameters have to be addressed under the baseline date for land environment. (a) Topography Slope form Landform and terrain analysis (b) Soil Type and characteristics Porosity and permeability Sub Soil permeability Inherent fertility Air Environment Climatological data is to be obtained from nearest Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) station for one full year. Micro meteorological data consisting of wind speed, wind direction, temperature, cloud cover, (amount and height), humidity, inversions, rainfall (peak and average daily rainfall ) and wind rose patterns from primary and secondary sources in the study area. 7

8 Baseline data of air pollutant parameters extending an area of 5 Kms from the project should be monitored at a number of locations. Description of base line data of ambient air parameters namely PM 10 and PM 2.5 Nitrogen dioxide, Sulphur dioxide and Carbon Monoxide are to be ascertained. Daytime and nighttime data should be collected. Noise Environment Construction equipment and road traffic are the major sources of noise. Baseline data noise at the project area and the neighborhood habitat areas is to be ascertained. Daytime and nighttime data should be collected. Water Environment Identify project activities, including construction phase, which may affect surface water or ground water. Estimate water intake requirements and identify the sources of eater water to be used. Rainwater harvesting has to be detailed out. Baseline water quality from all sources such as ground water, municipal water, surface water need to be determined and compared to the water quality norms prescribed for drinking water and State PWD specifications for construction water. Quantity of wastewater is to be provided. Biological Environment Baseline data on the flora and fauna for the study area is to be detailed out. If there are any rare and endangered species in the study area they are to be clearly mentioned. Socio Economic & Health Environment Baseline data should include the demography, settlements and existing infrastructure facilities in the proposed area. Solid Waste Solid waste generated such as construction or demolition waste, Municipal waste, Hazardous waste, E-Waste during construction & during operation. Details of the following are to be given: Construction or demolition waste, i.e., massive and inert waste Municipal waste, i.e., biodegradable and recyclable waste Hazardous waste E-waste Details of authorized Municipal solid waste facilities, biomedical treatment facilities and hazardous waste disposal facilities in the area should be included Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measure Land Environment Air Environment Water Environment Biological Environment Socio Economic Environment Solid waste and Environment Specific Studies 8

9 Describe the project energy requirements, infrastructure requirements needed for this activity. Discuss the steps taken to integrate the needs of other stakeholders into the location and design of access infrastructure to reduce and manage overall environmental impacts from resources development. Transport Detailed traffic survey and analysis. Estimate any environmental implications from transportation (rail, road) related emissions associated with the construction and operational phases and suggest suitable options. Provide a site plan showing the details of connectivity existing and proposed road and rail transport. Provide a site plan showing buildings, roads and open spaces, confirming the hierarchy of roads as per the rules given by UDPFI guidelines Discuss the impact of increased vehicle traffic and requirements for access improvements on roads in the site development area as a result of the project considering other existing and planned developments and operations in the region including what measures will be taken to reduce traffic and enhance vehicle safety on external roads. Discuss any expected change in traffic volume by Average Annual Daily (AADT) including traffic in Stephens Road, and any seasonal variability in traffic volume (include mitigation measures) prior to construction, during construction and at full site operation. Building Material and Technologies Details the types of materials use in each component part of the building and landscape (envelope, superstructure, openings and roads and surrounding landscape). Detail out the plans and sections of buildings showing use of new technologies and non Conventional Methods. Detail out the plans and sections of building using new construction techniques Energy Conservation Use of alternate renewable resources such as solar / wind power etc is to be discussed. Discuss the options considered for supplying the power required for the project and the environmental implications, including opportunities to increase the energy efficiency of the project; Details of U7R values are to be given. Details of the renewable energy systems ( sizing and design) solar lighting and solar water heater., building costs and integration details are to be provided Environmental Monitoring Program Frequency, location, parameters of monitoring Compilation and analysis of data reporting system Additional Studies Risk Assessment (ERA) and Disaster Management Plan (DMP) Discuss emergency plans for any environmental risks and such as earthquakes. Types of emergency, internal and external origin Emergency evacuation plan Emergency Procedures Helipad facilities for buildings with height beyond 60 mts 9

10 Natural Resources Conservation Plan of action for conservation of natural resources and recycle waste materials due to the project activity in the construction and operational phase of the project is to be discussed Project Benefits This section details out the improvements in physical infrastructure, social infrastructure if any. Also it details out any employment potential and other benefits that are accrued if the project is taken up Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Corporate Environment Responsibility i) (a) Does the company have a well laid down Environmental Policy approved by its Board of Directors? If so, it may be detailed in the EIA report. (b) Does the environment policy prescribe for standard operating process / procedure to bring into focus any infringement / deviation / violation of the environmental or forest norms / conditions/ if so it may be detailed in EIA. ii) What is the hierarchical system or administrative order of the company to deal with environmental issues and for ensuring compliance with the EC conditions? Details of this system may be given. iii) Does the company have a system of reporting of non compliances / violations of environmental norms to the Board of directors of the company and / or shareholders or stakeholders at large? This reporting mechanism should be detailed in the EIA report Summary & conclusion (Summary EIA) Disclosure of consultant engaged 1.8 REPORT ORGANIZATION AND STRUCTURE The contents of the present study are arranged as follows: Section 1: This section gives an overview of the project, site location and the current land use pattern of the project area. The objectives and need for REIA study too have been covered as a part of this section. Section 2: This section gives the brief review of the policies and the Environmental legislations at the National and State level to understand the legal requirements and implications of the proposed project interventions. Section 3: A brief write-up on various project appurtenances, construction schedule and related aspects have been covered in this section. Section 4: Baseline environmental conditions including physical, biological and socio-economic parameters, resource base and infrastructure have been described in this section. Before the start of the project, it is essential to ascertain the baseline conditions of appropriate environmental parameters which could be significantly affected by the implementation of the project. The baseline setting has been described for parameters most relevant to the type of proposed project. The baseline study involved both field work and review of existing information, which were available through different agencies / organizations. 10

11 Section 5: Anticipated positive and negative impacts as a result of the construction and operation of the proposed project are covered as a part of this section. The section attempts to forecast the future environmental conditions of the project area that might be expected to occur as a result of the construction and operation of the proposed project. Section 6: This section gives the environmental impact statement based on the identification, prediction and evaluation of impacts. Section 7: This section provides inside about various alternative technologies considered under this project and option recommended. Section 8: This part of the report highlights various additional studies conducted and outcome of such studies and safety measures suggested. Section 9: This section gives the brief of various project benefits of the project. Section 10: Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for amelioration of anticipated adverse impacts likely to accrue as a result of the proposed project is outlined in this section. The approach for formulation of an EMP was to maximize the positive environmental impacts and minimize the negative ones. Section 11: Environmental Monitoring Programme for implementation during project construction and operation phases has also been delineated in this section. The objective of environmental monitoring programme is to assess the adequacy of various environmental safeguards and to compare the predicted and actual scenario during construction and operation phases. This enables suggestion of remedial measures not foreseen during the planning stage but arising during these phases. Section 12: The estimated cost for implementation of suggested environmental management measures. Section 13: This section details the recommendations based on the environmental assessment of the project. Section 14: Under this section, brief summary of major impacts and mitigation measures to be adopted by the project proponent. Section 15: Disclosure of consultant engaged to undertake the REIA is provided in this section. 1.9 PROJECT PROPONENT NAME AND CONTACT The name and contact of the project proponent and architects are: Project Proponent: M/s. SPR Construction Pvt. Limited Sapna Trade Centre, 12th Floor, Old No: 109, New No:135,Poonamallee High Road, Chennai Architects: R J Architects Pvt Ltd., Anna Nagar, Chennai

12 1.10 PERMITS AND APPROVALS Various permits and approvals already obtained for the proposed project are: The proposed project will be approved by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) at conceptual stage. Building plan approval will be sanctioned by Corporation of Chennai (CoC) Approval of STP designs by Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB). 12

13 2.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATORY CONTEXT This section reviews the policies and the Environment legislations at the National and State level to understand the legal requirements and implications on the proposed project. All activities under the proposed project must be consistent with all applicable laws, regulations, notifications, and standards. It is the responsibility of the project Implementing Agency to ensure that project activities are consistent with the regulatory/legal framework, whether national, state or municipal/local. 2.1 INDIAN ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATIONS The Constitution of India directs the State to endeavor to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forest and wildlife of the country. Article 51(g) of the constitution states that it shall be the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the national environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures. The language of the Directive principles of the state policy (Article 47) also contains a specific provision, which commits the state to protect the environment. In addition to Constitutional provisions, India has established a comprehensive set of laws for the management and protection of the environment. The Acts, Notifications, Rules and Amendments applicable to any type of development projects include the following: The Environment (Protection) Act and Rules, 1986 EIA Notification dated as amended on December 2009 and April 2011 Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, Rules and Amendment, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1987 The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act and Rules, 1974, 1975 The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act and Rules, 1977, 1978, 1991 The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991 The Environmental Standards Notification, 1993, 1996 The Hazardous Waste Management and Handling Rules, 1989 and amendment rules 2000 The Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules 2000, 2002 The National Environment Tribunal Act, 1995 The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 Note: The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has stipulated general discharge standards for water effluents, and general emission standards for air and noise emissions. These standards limit the concentration and volumes of the effluents and emissions released to the atmosphere. The respective State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) could make these standards more stringent based on the environmental sensitivity of a specific location. The project proponents are required to take Consents (for both air and water) and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the relevant SPCBs before initiating any activity. In addition to the above, the Central Pollution Control board (CPCB) has also specified National Ambient Air Quality and Noise Standards for residential, commercial, industrial and sensitive zones for the country as a whole. 13

14 2.2 MAJOR PROVISIONS IN INDIAN ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATIONS The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 including Rules 1986 This Act is an umbrella legislation that provides a single focus for the protection of the environment. The potential scope of the Act is broad, with environment defined to include water, air and land and the inter-relationships which exist among water, air and land, and human beings and other living creatures, plants, micro-organisms and property. The Act has been enacted to provide for the protection and improvement of environment by preparation of manuals, codes or guides relating to prevention, control and abatement of environment pollution. The Act provides powers to the Central Government to take necessary measures for the purpose of protecting and improving the quality of the environment and prevention, control and abatement of environmental pollution. It lays down standards for the quality of the environment, emissions or discharges of environmental pollutants from various sources. It provides restriction on discharge or emission of pollutants in excess of the prescribed standards. Environmental Impact Assessment Notification, 1994 and the various amendments pertaining to this notification form a part of the regulations under this legislation Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 and Amendments As per the EIA notification, 1994 and subsequent amendments, new or expansion or modernization of any activity falling in the 32 categories of activities shall not be undertaken in any part of India unless it has been accorded environmental clearance by the Central Government in accordance with the procedures specified in the notification. As per the notification of the MoEF dated and amendment dated , any construction project falling under entry 8 of Schedule-I shall not be undertaken in any part of India unless it is accorded environmental clearance by the Central Government in accordance with the procedures specified in the notification. Relevance to the Construction Projects (Housing Complex): Certain type of building and construction projects needs environmental clearance from the MoEF. These include those (i) sq.mtrs and (ii)<1,50,000 sq.mtrs. of built-up area. Certain type of townships and area development projects needs environmental clearance from the MoEF. These include those (i) Covering an area 50 ha and or built up area 1,50,000 sq.mtrs. Contractors should adhere to the conditions prescribed in the clearance. In all their plant operations, the contractors need to meet the requirements / standards prescribed in the various Environmental Protection Rules and other environmental regulations. Whenever a project is given environmental clearance, a set of recommendations and conditions are stipulated by the Appraisal Committee that has to be complied with by the proponent once the project is commissioned. Project authorities are required to submit periodical compliance reports to the MoEF to enable the Ministry to monitor the implementation of the recommendations and conditions of environmental clearance. Cases of noncompliance of recommendations and conditions of environmental clearance are brought to the notice of the concerned SPCB for action The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 This Act was enacted to implement measures devised for its effective prevention, control or abatement of air pollution. The Act prohibits the construction and operation of any specified activity without the consent of SPCBs. For the prevention and control of air pollution, the State Government, 14

15 in consultation with the SPCB has the powers to set standards for emissions from automobiles, impose restrictions on use of certain activities and prohibit emissions of air pollutants in excess of the standards laid down by the SPCB. It can also make an application to the court for restraining persons from causing air pollution. In addition, it also has the power of entry and inspection, power to obtain information and power to take samples of air emissions and conduct the appropriate follow up. The CPCB, as well as the SPCBs are eligible for contributions from the Central as well as the State Government, respectively, to perform their functions appropriately. The Act also allows for appropriate penalties and procedures for non-compliance The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, amended in 1988 This Act has been enacted to implement measures devised for effective prevention and control of water pollution. It empowers the State Pollution Control Board to prepare manuals, codes or guides relating to treatment and disposal of sewage and trade effluents and information dissemination for maintaining or restoring wholesomeness of water The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977 This Act provides for levy and collection of Cess on water consumed by persons carrying on certain activities and by the local authorities with a view to augment the resources of CPCB and SPCBs for the prevention and control of water pollution, constituted under the Water Act, It also covers specifications on affixing of meters, furnishing of returns, assessment of Cess, interest payable for delay in payment of Cess and penalties for non-payment of Cess within the specified time The Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 1989 (as amended, May 2003) The Act requires owners to identify their wastes for applicability under the hazardous wastes amendment rules 2003 and manage them as per the prescribed guidelines. The assessment criteria under the amended rules are based on process and concentration The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991 The Public Liability Insurance Act (PLI), 1991, imposes on the owner the liability to provide immediate relief in respect of death or injury to any person or damage to any property resulting from an accident while handling any of the notified hazardous chemicals. This relief has to be provided on "no fault" basis. Owner handling hazardous chemicals has to take an insurance policy of an amount equal to its "paid up capital" or up to Rs 500 million, whichever is less. The policy has to be renewed every year. New undertakings have to take this policy before the commencement of the activity. The owner also has to pay an amount equal to its annual premium to the Central Government's Environment Relief Fund (ERF). The payment under the Act is only for the immediate relief; owners shall have to provide the final compensation, if any, arising out of the legal proceedings Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 pertains to the cases of diversion of forest area and felling of roadside plantation. Depending on the size of the tract to be cleared, clearances are applied for at the following levels of government: If the area of forests to be cleared or diverted exceeds 20ha (or, 10ha in hilly area) then prior permission of Central Government is required; If the area of forest to be cleared or diverted is between 5 to 20ha, the Regional Office of Chief Conservator of Forests is empowered to approve; If the area of forest to be cleared or diverted is below or equal to 5ha, the State Government can give permission; and, If the area to be clear-felled has a forest density of more than 40%, permission to undertake any work is needed from the Central Government, irrespective of the area to be cleared. Restrictions 15

16 and clearance procedure proposed in the Forest (Conservation) Act applies wholly to the natural forest areas, even in case the protected/designated forest area does not have any vegetation cover. If the activities are going to necessitate the diversion of forest area, then the respective line departments have to take the necessary clearances from the Forest Department / MoEF Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000 The Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000 provides for procedures for collection, segregation, storage, transportation, processing and disposal of municipal solid waste Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 According to this Act, area within radii of 100m and 300m from the protected property are designated as protected area and controlled area respectively. No development activity (including building, mining, excavating, blasting) is permitted in the protected area and development activities likely to damage the protected property are not permitted in the controlled area without prior permission of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) if the site/remains/ monuments are protected by ASI or the State Department of Archaeology if these are protected by the State. Relevance to the Construction Projects (Housing and Office Complex): Activities in protected areas should not be undertaken. If activities are to be done in the controlled area of protected properties, then the necessary permissions should be taken from the ASI. 2.3 APPLICABLE ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS The MoEF has the overall responsibility to set policy and standards for the protection of environment along with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This includes air, noise, water, and hazardous waste standards. The relevant standards, which may be of significance to the proposed project, are as follows: Ambient Air Quality Standards The standards for National Ambient Air Quality (NAAQS) has been prescribed by CPCB vide Gazette Notification dated 11th April Ambient Noise Standards Ambient standards with respect to noise have been notified by the MoEF vide gazette notification dated 26th December It is based on the A weighted equivalent noise level (Leq) Noise Standards for Occupational Exposure Noise standards in the work environment are specified by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA-USA) which in turn are being enforced by the Government of India through model rules framed under the Factories Act Wastewater Discharge Standards The discharge of treated wastewater from the sewage treatment plant (STP) should comply with the norms prescribed by the Tamil nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB). 16

17 2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS As per the policies and legal framework, for any new activity the following set of environmental approvals are necessary from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB): Consent to Establish Consent to Operate Consent to Establish The provision of `Consent to Establish' under the Water and Air Acts have been made obligatory after amendments to the Acts made in 1988 and 1987 respectively. Earlier, SPCBs were issuing separate NOCs for only siting of an industry and for adequacy and appropriateness of pollution control equipment and related measures. This requirement has now been replaced by the `Consent to Establish' and even extended to projects on housing and office complex. However, some SPCBs have not yet notified the amended rules. In such cases, the proponent is still required to obtain a NOC from the SPCB and not the `Consent to Establish' Consent to establish for discharge of effluents under the Water Act, 1974 All projects (operation, process or any treatment and disposal system) which are likely to discharge sewage or trade effluents into a stream, sewer or on land, are required to obtain `Consent to Establish for Discharge of Effluents' under the Water Act, 1974 (amended in 1988). For obtaining this consent, an application is to be submitted to the concerned SPCB in the prescribed form along with the prescribed application fee Consent to establish for emission under the Air Act, 1981 All projects (operation or process) located in an Air Pollution Control Area (APCA) declared so by the concerned SPCB, and likely to emit air pollutants in the atmosphere, are required to obtain `Consent to Establish for Emissions' under the Air Act, 1981 (amended in 1987). For obtaining this consent, an application is to be submitted to the concerned SPCB, in the prescribed form and along with the prescribed application fee. After obtaining the `Consent to Establish' and `Environmental Clearance', the project proponents can begin work related to the setting up of the project. After this, a periodic compliance report is to be submitted indicating effective implementation of the recommendations and connotations. 2.5 PROCEDURE FOR PRIOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE Procedure of for Environmental Clearance for building construction projects is as follows: Application for Prior Environmental Clearance (EC): An application seeking prior environmental clearance in all cases is to be made in the prescribed Form 1 and Supplementary Form 1A, [especially framed for only for Building /Construction projects/area Development projects and Townships (item 8)], along with a copy of the conceptual plan shall be provided, instead of the pre-feasibility report (which otherwise to be submitted for all other items as per EIA Notification]. The Stages in Prior Environmental Clearance Process are as follows: Stage I: Screening Screening refers scrutiny of category B projects seeking prior environmental clearance made in Form-1 and 1 A (applicable only for building construction and Townships and area development 17

18 projects) by the concerned Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) / State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) for determining whether or not the project requires further environmental studies for preparation of EIA for its appraisal depending upon the nature and location specificity of the project. Stage II: Scoping Scoping refers to the process by which the SEAC or EAC (if SEAC is not constituted for the State) in the case of Category B1 projects or activities determine detailed and comprehensive TORs addressing all the relevant environmental concerns for the preparation of EIA report. Stage III: Appraisal Appraisal means the detailed scrutiny by the Expert Appraisal Committee or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee of the application and other documents submitted by the applicant for grant of environmental clearance. Please Note: Normally in for other projects as per EIA Notification Stage III is Public Consultation. Public Consultation refers to the process by which the concerns of local affected persons and others who have plausible stake in the environmental impacts of the project or activity are ascertained. But all Building /Construction projects/area Development projects and Townships (item 8) are exempted from the process of Public hearing as per this Notification. Figure 2.1: Prior Environmental Clearance Process for Category B Projects 18

19 3.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This section of the report describes the features of the proposed project in sufficient detail to allow an assessment of its environmental impact. A complete description is important to understand the potential environmental implications of the initiative and accordingly addressing issues in an Rapid Environmental Impact Assessment (REIA) Study for Proposed Mixed Use Development project. Description of the proposed project components and activities are presented together with the aspects during the construction and operation phase of the project which are also important from the environmental perspective. 3.1 MAJOR PROJECT COMPONENTS AND REQUIREMENTS The major project components and resource requirements are described below: Project Layout and Development Concept The layout plan of the Mixed used Development complex has been developed keeping in view of the following major design considerations: Meeting the projected spatial requirements for the entire complex as well as individual buildings, as per the design brief and other guidelines issued by the CMDA. Fulfilling client s aspirations for developing an institution with a conducive environment for learning. Design to be responsive, to the site parameters and the nature of building proposed. Creating an architecturally satisfying building complex which will stand out as a landmark in the vicinity. Adherence to the building bye-laws and master plan implications. After series of meetings the designs of various buildings and the layout of the complex, has been finalized, which has also will be formally approved by the CMDA. The overriding prime objective of the proposed mixed use development complex is streamlining the functionary efficiency of the complex and catering to the needs of various users groups. The facilities like club house has been clubbed around the main buildings. According to the layout plan, the Complex shall consist of the following building blocks: Shopping Center Convention Center Shopping Mall & Hotel Office Building Multi Level Car Parking Residential Blocks School Club house Land Use and Area Statement The proposal involves Construction of Shopping Center, Convention Center, Shopping Mall & Hotel, Office Building, Multi Level Car Parking, Residential Blocks, School, Club house with a total land area available is 2,00,244 Sq.m. and comprising of Residential units (949 Dwelling Units for a total built-up area of 4,71,513 Sqm. Detailed area break up is given in below table. 19

20 Land Use Break Up Details: Description Plot Area (Sq.m) Percentage Area Ground Coverage Area Roads Area Other Utilities Area (Transformer, Substation) Greenbelt Area OSR Area Surface parking area Parking at MLCP ( Ground Level) Future development area Total Plot Area % 20

21 Break-up of Total Built-up Area proposed for the proposed Mixed Use Development Construction Project: Towers Blocks No. of Floors No. of units Built-up Area (Sq.m) FSI Area Non FSI Area Parking Area Total Builtup Area (Sq.m) Shopping Center A1 G+4-22, , A2 G+4-22, , A3 G+4-22, , A4 G+4-22, , B G , School C G+3-11, , Convention D G , , Center,Shopping Mall, Hotel 9 th (Part) Office Building E G+8-18, , Residential Blocks F1 S , , F2 S , , F3 S , , F4 S , , G S , , Combined Stilt (F1,F2,F3.F4 & G) H S , , Club House I B+G Sub Total (A) 949 2,90, Basement- Residential (Lower + Upper) Basement - Commercial (Lower+ Upper) 76,139.8 MLCP Sub Total (B) Grand Total (A+B) 4, 71,513 Built up Area is calculated as per the latest Circular of MoEF, Dated: 2nd April ''The built-up or covered area on all the floors put together including basement(s) and other service areas, which are proposed in the building construction project". Details as per master plan of the project are: Total Plot area = Sq.m Total Built up area = 4, 71,513 Sq.m Water Requirement & Supply Water requirement for the project during construction is primarily for preparation of mortar, PCC, RCC, curing, sprinkling and domestic uses (construction work force). It is estimated that about KLD of water is required during peak construction periods. This would be sourced from Chennai Metro Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) through its tankers. The water requirement for the project during operation phase is estimated taking into consideration all the proposed components 21

22 of the building and the applicable standard water requirements for various components. The estimation of water requirement and the water balance chart is shown in table below: Water Requirement calculation as per CPHEEO Norms (Overall Statement): Project component Residential Block Residential unit Maintenance Staff and visitors Area in Sq.m. No. of units Occupancy Total Occupancy Water requiremen t for Non- Water requiremen t for Total water requirement (lts.) LPCD 45 LPCD % of LPCD 30 LPCD total residential population Club house % of total residential population Office Block Office Block Person for every 10 Sq. m. of Total FSI area Maintenance Staff - 10% of total commercial population School Students - students per classroom Teaching Staff Non Teaching Staff person per 25 students person per 25 students LPCD 10 LPCD LPCD 25 LPCD LPCD 30 LPCD LPCD 25 LPCD LPCD 15 LPCD LPCD 15 LPCD Maintenance Staff % of total School population LPCD 30 LPCD Shopping Centre Shopping Person for every 10 Sq. m. of Total FSI area Maintenance Staff % of total commercial population LPCD 10 LPCD LPCD 30 LPCD

23 Hotel and Convention Centre Guest rooms guest for each guest room Staff % of total guest room Restaurant and Food Court LPCD 60 LPCD LPCD 30 LPCD population Seats LPCD 20 LPCD Marriage and Mini Hall Seats LPCD 10 LPCD Cineplex Seats LPCD 10 LPCD Retail Shop LPCD 10 LPCD Maintenance Staff 10% of total population of Restaurant & food court, Marriage & mini hall, Cineplex, retail shop LPCD 30 LPCD Swimming pool make up water requirement Green Belt Development ( Sq.m X 3.5 ltrs) Total Nos Say 826 KLD Say 780 KLD Say 1606 KLD Water Requirement/Usage Summary: Summary of water requirement: Overall water requirement Total Water Requirement = 1606 KLD Fresh Water Requirement = 826 KLD (Including Swimming pool top up: 5 KLD) Flushing water Requirement = 675 KLD Gardening water requirement ( Sq.m X 3.5 lts) = (Say 105 KLD) 23

24 Water Balance Overall Statement: Fresh water Requirement 826 KLD (85% of inflow) STP 1-270KLD STP KLD STP 3-90 KLD STP KLD STP KLD 821 KLD Domestic (NF) 821 KLD 698 KLD 1377 KLD STP Capacity 1500 KLD 679 KLD (95% of inflow) 5 KLD Flushing 675 KLD 100 % 675 KLD 1308 KLD Swimming pool 5 KLD 4 KLD Gardening 105 KLD 105 KLD Disposal CMWSSB common sewer line 528 KLD 528 KLD Power Requirement & Supply The power requirement during operation is about KVA and it will be sourced from the nearby TNEB grid which will be distributed through the transformers within our premises. For emergency purposes, DG sets of the following capacities will be used. List of Diesel Generators proposed: S.No. DG Capacity Numbers Residential Block KVA KVA 1 Shopping Mall Block KVA 12 School Block KVA KVA 1 Club House Block KVA 1 Convention Centre Block KVA 4 MLCP Block KVA KVA KVA KVA 1 24

25 3.1.5 Fuel Requirements Diesel / Industrial Oil will be consumed for Diesel Generators in case of Power failure. The Diesel and Oil if required to be stored on the site as a reserved stock, will be stored in a drum / tin with proper identification mark / labels in identified area. Fire and safety measures will be taken as per the guidelines from the concerned authority Sewage Collection, Treatment and Disposal System It is proposed to establish 5 STPs of 1500 KLD ( 1 No. of 270 KLD, 1 No. of 550 KLD, 1No. of 90 KLD, 1 No. of 440 KLD and 1 No. of 150 KLD) capacity in the Project area based on Sequential Batch Bio Reactor (SBR) Technology. The wastewater generated will be treated up to tertiary level. The wastewater will be collected through a network of drainage system to be designed accordingly keeping in view the location of the STP. The treated effluent will be mostly reused for flushing of toilets in the residential, Commercial complex and for gardening. Dual plumbing system will be provided for utilizing treated water for flushing of toilets. Unutilized treated effluent shall be discharged into the CMWSSB sewerage network which is available around the proposed site. Reuse of treated effluent within the complex will reduce the overall requirement of fresh water as well as put less load on the existing sewerage network. During the project construction phase, the major source of water pollution will be sewage from labour camps and makeshift office. It is expected that at any given time during the construction phase, the peak manpower strength on construction site comprising of technical staff, clerical/supervisor, skilled and unskilled workers would be about 500 persons. The average domestic water requirements would be about 50 lpcd. Thus, total water requirements work out to be 25,000 litres / day (max.). It is assumed that about 80% of the water required will be generated as sewage. Thus, total quantum of sewage generated in peak situation is expected to be about 20,000 litres / day. The generated sewage would pass through a septic tank and its discharge would be connected to the existing municipal sewage network of the area Storm Water Drainage System All along the road storm water drains would be provided to collect water during rains. They would be adequately sized to prevent over flooding of the site. The storm water collection system will be designed in such a manner so that clean storm water from garden, parking areas, roadways and lawns is used for recharging of ground water. The excess run off will be directed towards the nearest storm water drain Internal Road Network and Vehicle Parking The layout plan of the proposed site has developed an internal road network in such a manner that it will not only cater to various buildings but also integrate the whole complex in an interesting composition of built masses and open spaces with a pedestrian dominated movement pattern. Entry points to the complex have been worked out keeping in view the desired movement of vehicles. Main entry to the block is planned from the main road on the Southern side. Adequately wide roads to cater to two way traffic and to meet the fire regulations are planned in the complex. Details of Parking Type of Parking Residential Area Total No. of Car Parking Space Provided Total No. of Parking Space Required as per CMDA Norms 25

26 Car parks Two wheeler parks Commercial Area Car parks Two wheeler parks Fire Fighting System Fire fighting system in the complex will consist of fire detection system and fire fighting system. Automatic fire detection system with different types of heat and smoke detectors will be provided in different areas of the building. The system shall be connected to the fire alarm system. An emergency intercommunication system shall be provided for the entire building. The control room / security room with communication system to all floors and facility for receiving messages from different floors shall be provided at entrance on ground floor. The Multi Storied Group Development Project will be provided with adequate fire protection arrangements such as water storage tank of 5.8 lakh litres capacity, fire pump, wet riser system, hose reel, hose box, fire alarm system, portable fire extinguisher, one standby DG set connected with lift, fire pump and emergency light. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed in the entire building. The portable fire extinguishers shall be provided at strategic locations. It is also proposed to appoint a qualified fire officer in the building to maintain / look after firefighting system / fire order. To prevent any fire hazard, good housekeeping inside and outside the building shall be strictly maintained Solar Water Heating System It is also proposed to provide solar water heating system in the hostel and staff housing block of the residential complex. The system will consist of solar panels, insulated hot water storage tank, and insulated piping. The estimated demand for the hot water will be about 10,000 litres per day Solid Waste Generation The solid waste from the proposed development will comprises of biodegradable wastes like domestic food waste, horticultural waste and recyclable waste like plastics, paper etc. As per the manual on municipal solid waste prescribed by Central Public Health and Environmental Engineering Organization (CPHEEO), the quantity of solid waste generated varies between kg/ capita/ day. Quantity of solid waste generated from the proposed residential building is given below. S.No Project Componen ts Total Apartments Occupan cy load Per Capita generatio n Total Bio Degradabl e Waste generation Total Non Bio Degradabl e Waste generation Total solid Waste generatio n Kg/day Kg/day Kg/day 1 Residents Maintenance & Visitors population (10% of Resident population) 3 Club House (5% of Resident population) Office Block 4 Office Block

27 5 Maintenance Staff School and Club house 6 Students Teaching Staff Non Teaching Staff Maintenance & Visitors population (10% of School population) Shopping Centre 10 Shopping Maintenance & Visitors population (10% of total commercial population) Hotel and Convention Centre 11 Guest rooms Staff Restaurant and Food Court Marriage and Mini Hall Cineplex Retail shops Maintenance & Visitors population (10 % of total population of Restaurant & food court, Marriage & mini hall, Cineplex, retail shop) 18 STP Sludge Total Waste Generation in Kg/day 5300 Kg/d 3441 Kg/d 8741 Kg/d Component STP Sludge Waste Type Bio-degradable Solid Waste Total Sewage Generation 1377 STP Sludge Calculation 0.1 m 3 /KLD, So, 0.1 X 1377 KLD Sludge Waste Generation (Kgs/day) 138 Per capita waste generation for residential are 0.6 kg/ capita/ day and for other working population it is 0.2 kg/capita/day. Source: Central Public Health and Environmental Engineering Organization (CPHEEO) Sl.No Description Quantity (Tons/day) Mode of Treatment/disposal 1 Biodegradable waste Disposed through organic waste converter and manure used for green belt 27

28 development. 2 Non biodegradable waste Sent to authorized recyclers. 3 STP sludge 138 kgs Dried and used as manure for green belt development Per capita waste generation for residential are 0.6 kg/ capita/ day and for other working population it is 0.2 kg/capita/day. Source: Central Public Health and Environmental Engineering Organization (CPHEEO) Sl.No Description Quantity (Tons/day) Mode of Treatment/disposal 1 Biodegradable waste 5.15 Disposed through organic waste converter. 2 Non-biodegradable waste 3.43 Sent to authorized recyclers. 3 STP sludge 138 kgs Dried and used as manure for green belt area Adequate number of collection bins, separately for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste will be provided at all necessary locations. Wastes from these bins will be collected manually on a daily basis and would be stored temporarily in a transit storage facility. The Bio degradable waste will be treated in OWC and the inert fractions will be disposed off through the local municipal waste collection system and non bio degradable recyclable wastes will be handed over to authorized recyclers. Horticulture wastes leaves, grass and vegetative residues shall be collected at the secured location such that it will not hinder daily activity schedule or washed away by the surface run-off causing choking of drains, etc. and will be separately treated and disposed off along with biodegradable waste. 3.2 PROJECT ACTIVITIES Construction Phase The civil works for the construction and development of integrated complex include bulk earthworks, construction of internal roads, pavements, parking area, underground water storage tanks, foundations for buildings and structures, installation of storm water drainage, water supply, and sewage drainage network, services, landscaping and security fencing. Detailed excavation will be required for the multi-storied buildings. Other excavation will be limited to trenching for storm water, water tanks, sewerage, electrical rooms/sub-stations and other facilities. EB room, pump room and storage etc. will be based in the lower basement of the services building block of the complex Operation Phase The regular operation and maintenance will be required for sewage treatment plant, OWC, pumps, and DG sets. These will be equipped with electrical control and mechanical fittings. The maintenance of bore well area and rainwater harvesting system will be required both on short term and long term basis. The trained operators will be deployed on all these facilities. 3.3 BUILDING DESIGN FEATURES ON SEISMIC LOAD Various measures taken to make the proposed building structure earthquake resistance include: 28

29 Building designed as a RCC framed structure. The design of frame structures is based on stipulation of I.S. codes of earthquake design (I.S. 1893) Ductility provisions to improve earthquake resistivity, as per the Indian Standards requirement also being incorporated. As such the structure is designed for earthquake resistivity taking into account latest provisions of Indian Standards codes for earthquake resistivity. 3.4 RESOURCE AND CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS Construction of the project components will require the use of renewable and non-renewable resources including wood, gravel, sand, steel, concrete, cement, bricks and paper products. The materials, apart from paper products, will be used during the construction period only and will not be required during the operation phase of the project. Paper products (e.g., paper, cardboard) will be used during the operation for record keeping, general commercial use etc. However, their use will be minimized. During the construction activity, it is expected that no fill materials will be transported from outside. The total quantity of earthwork involved is estimated to be about 91,000 m3. The material used for construction of the building will be of non combustible nature. Non combustible material will only be used for the construction / erection of false ceiling including all fixtures and used for its suspension / erection etc. and of low flame rating. Fossil fuels, such as diesel fuel, gasoline and oil will be used during the construction and operation of the project for mechanical and electrical equipments. Electricity will be used during construction to provide power to construction equipment and during operation for lighting of buildings and running utilities equipments. Electricity consumption will be kept at a minimum when possible by adopting electricity conservation measures Manpower Requirement Proposed project requires manpower during construction phase & operational phase thereby creating enormous job opportunities. Local skilled and unskilled laborers will have an opportunity for employment directly or indirectly. There will be additional employment for the poor strata of society by way of helpers, drivers, cleaners etc. During the construction and operational phases of the project a workforce will be needed which will be including both skilled and unskilled people. The introduction of workers from areas outside the region, could introduce a potential effect on the local culture, habits and economics. Those effects have both positive and negative elements and will be managed by the project proponents & developers with the experience gained in many other similar projects. 3.5 SOLID, LIQUID AND GASEOUS WASTES GENERATION Dust will be generated during the construction phase from earthworks, movement of vehicles and by wind erosion of areas cleared of vegetation. The degree of dust generated would depend on the soil compaction and moisture content of the ground surface during construction. The generation of waste material is inevitable during the construction phase of the development. Waste materials normally include general refuse including scrap metal, cardboard, plastics; inert waste including excess fill and building rubble; and sewage wastes from the construction workers housing. Clean waste material such as rock and rubble will mostly be used for earth fill on the site itself. Other solid wastes generated during construction will be needed to be disposed to a designated landfill site. 29

30 Domestic sewage will be generated during the operation phase of the project which will be treated in the proposed STP in the complex. Significant proportion of Municipal Solid Wastes will be generated from both the academic and residential complex and will need to be disposed off safely. The sludge generated from STP will be reused in horticulture within and outside the project site. 3.6 CONSTRUCTION PLAN AND TIMETABLE The preliminary schedule and timetable of major construction activities is outlined in Annexure -XI. The total construction period for the entire complex will be about 48 months. This schedule is dependent on receiving timely environmental approvals from the concerned authorities. 3.7 CONSTRUCTION WORKFORCE REQUIREMENTS The site works during construction are highly labour intensive and a sizeable workforce is anticipated. The entire project will be executed in 4 years period. The peak labour force requirement for the project will be about 1500 workers. It is expected that about 500 workers will stay in temporary shelters on the site during the construction period. 3.8 PROJECT COST The estimated cost of the project including construction and machinery cost is expected to be Rs. 683 Crores. 3.9 PROJECT SITE LAYOUT PLAN AND MODEL PHOTOGRAPHS The project site layout plan for the construction of Multi Storied Group Development complex is in Figure 3.1. This illustrates the major project components and their locations on the site. Figure 3.2 gives the model photographs of the proposed project. 30

31 Figure 3.1 Master Plan Layout 4.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT Baseline studies are carried out to provide a detailed description of the existing ecosystem, landscape, infrastructure, cultural heritage and urban environment. A baseline study describes the initial state of the environment within the selected boundaries of the study area. A description of the existing environmental status of the study area with reference to the prominent environmental attributes is thus described in detail. The existing environmental setting is considered to adjudge the baseline conditions which are described with respect to climate, hydro-geological aspects, atmospheric conditions, water quality, soil quality, vegetation pattern, ecology, socioeconomic profile, land use, places of archaeological importance etc. 31

32 An environmental baseline survey was conducted during February to April 2016 as a part of EIA study for the project. Also this time the criteria for selecting the locations for ambient air quality monitoring was based on the model TOR given in Environmental Impact Assessment Guidance Manual for Building Construction by MOEF. Meteorological data for summer season (February to April 2016) which have been collected from IMD for year 2016 is collected from IMD. Baseline studies include collection of primary and secondary data within the study area. The chapter incorporates the baseline data generated in the study area during February to April 2016, and secondary data collected from various Government and Semi-Government organizations. The details about the existing environmental values are projected at each section in the form of the maximum and minimum values at each location and the measurement duration. The area of the study covers 10 km radius around the proposed site. To make the process easier, the entire zone is divided into two, namely the core zone comprising of the proposed construction project area and the buffer zone covering the remaining areas covered under the 10 km radius. The guiding factors for the present baseline study are the MoEF s requirements for the Environmental Impact Assessment notification and local regulations and directives. The studies were conducted by considering the following: The various environmental attributes were divided into primary and secondary studies. Primary attributes such as air environment, water, soil, biological environment were assessed by conducting field studies, on-site monitoring; and Secondary attributes such as land use studies, geology, hydrological characteristics, and socioeconomic environment have been assessed by literature review of previous studies conducted and from various government publications. The scoping and the extent of data generation were formulated with interdisciplinary team discussions, criteria questions and professional judgment. The baseline studies started with site visits and survey in the study area for fixing the monitoring locations for the primary data generation. As a secondary data source, various government agencies were approached for getting information and relevant data. 4.1 METHODOLOGY The various environmental attributes were divided into primary and secondary studies. Primary attributes such as air environment, water, soil, biological environment were being assessed by conducting field studies, on-site monitoring; and secondary attributes such as land use studies, geology, hydrological characteristics, and socio-economic environment were assessed by literature review of previous studies conducted and from various government publications. A part of the overall site assessments including a few samples of water and soil sampling & analysis had been completed in the recent past and the results are presented in the subsequent sections. The methodology for conducting the baseline environmental survey considered is as per the guidelines given in the Environmental Impact Assessment Guidance Manual for Building, Construction Projects. Baseline information with respect to air quality, noise level, water quality soil quality and in the study area were collected by conducting primary sampling / field studies during the year Baseline status of Land, Biological and Socio-economic environment are also studied. The characteristics of baseline status of study area with respect to the following environmental parameters were studied: Primary Data Collection: Ambient air quality 32

33 Noise Level Groundwater and Surface water quality Soil quality Land use pattern Secondary Data Collection: Meteorological data from IMD, Chennai Flora and Fauna Socio-economic conditions Sensitive areas such as forests, sanctuaries, places of historical, archeological and tourist importance Study Area The study area is considered to be the area within 500 mt radius of the site for Environmental monitoring while for studying the environmental sensitivity a radius of 15 km is considered as specified in Form 1 of EIA notification dated 14th September, The study area covers 15 km radius around the project site. The scoping and the extent of data generation were formulated with interdisciplinary team discussions, criteria questions and professional judgment. The baseline studies started with site visits and survey in the study area for fixing the monitoring locations for the primary data generation. As a secondary data source, various government agencies were approached for getting the EIA study related information and other relevant data. 4.2 MICRO METEOROLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS Meteorological factors have a direct bearing on the dispersion and dilution of pollutants/contaminants, discharged into the atmosphere with consequent impact on air Environment. Micro-meteorological properties of the atmosphere govern the concentration of pollutants and its variations with time and location with respect to their sources. Micro-meteorological measurements are therefore essential to fit the air quality observations in a dispersion model, with a view to arrive at the ground level concentration at various distances in down-wind direction for various pollutants. The nearest authoritative meteorological recording station is maintained by the Regional Meteorological Center at Nungambakkam, Chennai. The basic meteorological parameters pertinent to the air pollution studies are those governing the transport and diffusion of the pollutants in the atmosphere and they are listed below: Wind speed Wind direction Temperature Humidity and Rain fall The salient climatologically Parameters are shown below: S. No Climatical Parameter SW NE Winter Summer 1 Monthly mean Temperature max. /min. in. o Celsius a) Hilly area b) Plain area 15.35/ /29/9 12.5/ / / / / / Average temperature in o Celsius a) Hilly area b) Plain area Average relative humidity in %

34 3 a) Hilly area b) Plain area Average wind velocity in kmph. a) Hilly area b) Plain area Average sunshine hours/day Average pan evaporation in mm/month mm/months Methodology of Sampling: Micro-meteorological station was installed in the proposed site with the objective of recording wind direction and speed, Temperature, Humidity and Pressure. The data thus collected from the station represent the prevailing micro-meteorological aspects of core and buffer zone. Wind direction was observed using wind vanes and velocity by using Anemometer at hourly intervals and data was plotted as wind roses. The maximum and minimum relative humidity for each sampling location was also recorded along with temperature by using wet and dry bulb thermometer. The rainfall was estimated using rain gauge. 34

35 Figure 4.1(a) Wind rose Diagrams For the months of February April 2016 observed at 08:30 hrs 35

36 Figure 4.1(b) Wind rose Diagrams For the months of February April 2016 observed at 17:30 hrs Wind speed and direction The observed temperature range in the area varied from 19 o C to 34 o C. The relative humidity normally varied between 60% and 90% while the minimum wind speed is 4 km per hour and the maximum wind speed is 16 km per hour. The predominant wind direction observed during the study period was Southeast direction. Wind rose at site for the study period is depicted in Figure 4.1. Average rainfall at site is 1100 mm recorded in earlier years Temperature The observed temperature range in the area varied from minimum 21 C to Maximum 33 C Relative Humidity The relative humidity normally varied between 60% to 90% during the study period. 36

37 4.2.4 Rainfall Details Of Rainfall Stations and 50 Years normal average Rainfall Coordinates S.No. Name of the RF Station Latitude Longitude SWM NEM Winter Summer Annual 1 Sholingar Ramakrishnarajpet Pallipet Minnal Arakonam Kesavaram Poondi Thiruvallore Chembarambakkam Sriperumbudur Tamaraipakkam Anicut Tambaram Poonthamallee Sholavaram Meenambakkam Redhills Korattur Anicut Ponneri Saidapet Nungambakkam Valliyur Athipet Chepauk Tiruthani Thiruvetriyur * Tharamani * Kaveripakkam Panappakkam Thiruvalangadu * Pattabiramam * Elavur Note: * These Rainfall Stations were installed during recent years, and average has been arrived only for actiual years of data available. The Annual rainfall for the 31 rainfall stations, for all the years and the average annual rainfall have been arrived and tabulated. The Probable Mean aerial rainfall analysis for 50%, 75% dependable rainfall in each of the sub basin and the basin group based on the rainfall data from 1971 to 2001 (for latest 30 years were taken into account) as a whole are below and the average for South West and North East and annual Rainfall for all the 31 rainfall stations have been analyzed and tabulated. The long term ( ) average annual rainfall in hilly, plain and coastal regions is as follows: S. No. Region Location Average Annual Rainfall in mm 1 Hilly Region Sholingar Tiruthani Pallipet Plain Region Thiruvallore Sholavaram Minnal Poondi Arakonam

38 3 Coastal Region Tambaram Meenambakkam Saidapet Nungambakkam Chepauk LAND ENVIRONMENT Seismic Stability The project area falls in Zone-III of Seismic Zoning Map of India. Though not as seismically active as states in the northern and western parts of the country, small to moderate earthquakes have occurred in the state of Tamil Nadu. The frequency of earthquakes is low i.e. the gap between moderate sized events is fairly long. Seismic activity in the recent past has occurred in clusters along the borders with Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala. Several faults have been identified in this region out of which many show evidence of movement during the Holocene period. The east-west trending Cauvery Fault, Tirukkavilur- Puducherry Fault and Vaigai River Fault and the north-south trending Comorin-Point Calimere Fault and Rajapatnam-Devipatnam Fault are some of them and run close to major urban centres like Coimbatore, Madurai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur and Puducherry General Geology Chennai district forms part of coastal plains of Tamil Nadu. Major part of the district is having flat topography with very gentle slope towards east. The altitudes of land surface vary from 10 m above MSL in the west to sea level in the east. Fluvial, marine and erosional landforms are noticed in the district. Marine transgression and regressions and neo-tectonic activity during the recent past have influenced the morphology and resulted in various present landforms. Meandering streams with small sand bars are present along the course of Adyar & Cooum River. The pediment and buried pediment in Guindy area in and around the reserved forest, is the only area where the ecological system is less disturbed, while the other areas are completely disturbed by built up area with large-scale human interference and pollution Landuse Pattern To demarcate different land use classes using the remote sensing data such as satellite imagery and application of GIS techniques for assessing the areal extent of the different classes that is interpreted, for the proposed project site in Chennai district. The Administrative unit within 10 km radius zone comprises of parts of: 1) Ambattur Taluk 2) Ponneri Taluk 38

39 3) Ponnamalle Taluk 4) Egmore-Nungambakkam Taluk 5) Fort-Tondiarpet Taluk 6) Mambalam-Guindy Taluk 7) Mylapore-Triplicane Taluk and 8) Purasawalkam-Perambur Taluk The study area (10 Km Radius from the project site boundary) lies in between N. Latitudes 13 6'8.67" and E. Longitude 80 15'14.89" and forms part of the Survey of India Toposheet Nos. 66 C- 5. As per the EIA guidelines the study area has been divided into Core zone and Buffer zone which is about 10 km radius from the boundary of the proposed project site area. The current land use has to be assessed as it forms the basis for any developmental planning. Methodology: Information of land use and land cover is important for many planning and management activities concerning the surface of the earth (Agarwal and Garg, 2000). Land use refers to man's activities on land, which are directly related to land (Anderson et al., 1976). The land use and the land cover determine the infiltration capacity. Barren surfaces are poor retainers of water as compared to grasslands and forests, which not only hold water for longer periods on the surface, but at the same time allow it to percolate down. The terms land use and land cover (LULC) are often used to describe maps that provide information about the types of features found on the earth s surface (land cover) and the human activity that is associated with them (land use). These are important parameters for number of environmental related development projects associated with inland and coastal areas. It is necessary to have information on existing land use / land cover but also the capability to monitor the dynamics of land use resulting out of changing demands. Satellite remote sensing is being used for determining different types of land use classes as it provides a means of assessing a large area with limited time and resources. However satellite images do not record land cover details directly and they are measured based on the solar energy reflected from each area on the land. The amount of multi spectral energy in multi wavelengths depends on the type of material at the earth s surface and the objective is to associate particular land cover with each of these reflected energies, which is achieved using either visual or digital interpretation. In the present study the task is to study in detail the land use and land cover in and around the project site. The study envisages different LULC around the proposed project area and the procedure adopted is as below: Scale of mapping: Considering the user defined scale of mapping, 1:50000 IRS-P6, LISS-III data on 1:50000 scale was used for Land use / Land cover mapping of 10 km radius for proposed SEZ site. The description of the land use categories for 10 km radius and the statistics are given for core and buffer zones separately. 39

40 Figure 4.2: Flow Chart showing Methodology of Land use mapping SOI Topographical maps IRS-P6, LISS-II FCC Imagery Collateral Data Landform Initial Rapid Reconnaissance Interpretation Keys Visual Interpretation Land use Classes Pre-field Interpretated map Ground Truth Ground Photographs Updated & Validated Land use QAS Land use MAP Interpretation Technique: Standard on screen visual interpretation procedure was followed. The various Land use / Land cover classes interpreted along with the SOI topographical maps during the initial rapid reconnaissance of the study area. The physiognomic expressions conceived by image elements of color, tone, texture, size, shape, pattern, shadow, location and associated features are used to interpret the FCC imagery. Image interpretation keys were developed for each of the LU/LC classes in terms of image elements. 40

41 March 2014 FCC imagery (Digital data) of the study area was interpreted for the relevant land use classes. On screen visual interpretation coupled with supervised image classification techniques are used to prepare the land use classification. 1. Digitization of the study area (10 km radius from the proposed site) from the topo maps 2. Satellite Data Selection: In the present study the IRS P6 satellite image and SOI topo sheets of 66-C/04 and 08 have been procured and interpreted using the ERDAS imaging and ARC-GIS software adopting the necessary interpretation techniques. 3. Satellite data interpretation and vectorisation of the resulting units 4. Adopting the available guidelines from manual of LULC mapping using Satellite imagery (NRSA, 1989) 5. Field checking and ground truth validation 6. Composition of final LULC map The LULC Classification has been done at three levels where level -1 being the broad classification about the land covers that is Built-up land, agriculture land, waste land, wet lands, and water bodies. These are followed by level II where built-up land is divided into towns/cities as well villages. The Agriculture land is divided into different classes such as cropland, Fallow, Plantation, while wastelands are broadly divided into, Land with scrub and without Scrub and Mining and Industrial wasteland. The wetlands are classified into inland wetlands, coastal wetlands and islands. The water bodies are classified further into River/stream, Canal, Tanks and bay. In the present study level II classification has been undertaken. The satellite imagery of 10 km radius from the project site is presented in Annexure - V. Field Verification: Field verification involved collection, verification and record of the different surface features that create specific spectral signatures / image expressions on FCC. In the study area, doubtful areas identified in course of interpretation of imagery is systematically listed and transferred on to the corresponding SOI topographical maps for ground verification. In addition to these, traverse routes were planned with reference to SOI topographical maps to verify interpreted LU/LC classes in such a manner that all the different classes are covered by at least 5 sampling areas, evenly distributed in the area. Ground truth details involving LU/LC classes and other ancillary information about crop growth stage, exposed soils, landform, nature and type of land degradation are recorded and the different land use classes are taken. Plate-3 Description of the Land Use / land cover classes: Built-up land: It is defined as an area of human settlements composed of houses, commercial complex, transport, communication lines, utilities, services, places of worships, recreational areas, industries etc. Depending upon the nature and type of utilities and size of habitations, residential areas can be aggregated into villages, towns and cities. All the manmade construction covering land belongs to this category. The built- up in 10 km radius from the proposed project site is as follows. Sl.No Land use Area in Sq.km Percentage 1 Built-up (Rural / Urban) The built up land occupies % 41

42 Agricultural land: This category includes the land utilized for crops, vegetables, fodder and fruits. Existing cropland and current fallows are included in this category. It is described as an area under agricultural tree crops, planted adopting certain agricultural management techniques. The Agricultural land in 10 km radius from the proposed project site is as follows. Sl. No Land use Area in Sq.Km Percentage 1 Crop Land Plantation Fallow Land Of all the agricultural lands, Plantation occupies maximum of % area within 10 km radius. Wasteland: Wastelands are the degraded or under utilized lands most of which could be brought under productive use with proper soil and water management practices. Wasteland results from various environmental and human factors. Land with or without Scrub: The land, which is outside the forest boundary and not utilized for cultivation. Land with or without scrub usually associated with shallow, stony, rocky otherwise non-arable lands. The Wasteland in 10 km radius from the proposed project site is as below. Sl.No Land use Area in Sq.Km Percentage 1 Land with Scrub Land without Scrub Salt affected land Of all the wastelands Land with Scrub occupies maximum of 0.34 % of the total area. Water bodies: The category comprises area of surface water, either impounded in the form of ponds, reservoirs or flowing as streams, rivers and canals. River cater channel is inland waterways used for irrigation and for flood control. The details are furnished below Sl. No Land use Area in Sq.Km Percentage 1 River Water Bodies Tank Conclusion The land use analyses show that the area is of predominantly Built-up Land of urban, Rural and Industrial nature followed Plantation in the core and buffer zones of the study area. 42

43 Different Land use classes around 10 km radius from the project site Sl.No Land use Area in Sq.Km Percentage 1 Built-up Land (Urban / Rural) Crop Land Plantation Fallow Land Land with Scrub Land without scrub Salt affected Land River Water body (Tank) Total Soil Quality Soils in the area have been classified into i) Red soil ii) Black soil iii) Alluvial soil iv) Colluvial soil. The major part is covered by Red soil of red sandy/clay loam type. Black soils are deep to very deep and generally occur in the depressions adjacent to hilly areas, in the western part. Alluvial soils occur along the river courses and eastern part of the coastal areas. Sandy coastal alluvium (arenaceous soil) are seen all along the sea coast as a narrow belt. Geotechnical investigation report for the project was submitted earlier with the application as Annexure X. Methodology of Sampling: Five locations in the study area were selected for soil sampling as mentioned in Table-4.1 and Figure-4.3. At each location, soil samples were collected using Auger / core cutter from three different depths viz. 30 cm, 60 cm and 90 cm below the surface and homogenized. The homogenized samples were analyzed for physical and chemical characteristics. The results are presented in Table

44 Table -4.1 Details of Soil Sampling Locations Location Code Name of the Location Direction from Project Site Distance (km) S 1 Project Site - - S 2 Perambur NW 1.1 S 3 Purasavakam SW 1.8 S 4 Retteri W 3.8 Figure 4.3: Soil Sampling Locations Table 4.2 Soil Quality Data S.NO Parameters Unit SQ1 SQ2 SQ3 SQ4 1 ph@ 25 0 C Electrical 25 0 C µmhos/cm Phosphorous as P (Available) µg/g Sodium as Na (Soluble) meq/100g Potassium as K (Soluble) meq/100g Organic Nitrogen % Sulphate meq/100g Total Calcium Carbonate meq/100g Calcium & Magnesium meq/100g Chloride meq/100g

45 Results and Discussion: The soil sample and analysis results show that the soil remains fertile and there is no any indication of the presence of pollutant in the soil. The quality of the soil is good in nature suitable for Mixed development purposes. 4.4 AIR ENVIRONMENT General The atmosphere as such is always being in a dynamic state. A wide range of solids, liquids and gases are emitted from both the natural and man-made sources. These substances, called pollutants, will be easily carried away and travel to long distances, through air, disperses and reacts with other particles and among themselves. Due to this chemical and physical reaction of the pollutant, air pollution will be caused. Air Pollution" is defined as any disturbances caused in the Atmospheric Air quality, which may cause injury to human beings, plants (Vegetation) and animals, apart from interference to comfortable living. The level of air pollution depends upon the magnitude of the activities in the particular area as well as the meteorological conditions. Though buildings are not a major contributor to air pollution, they often contribute to pollutants into the air during both construction and operational phases. The sources of air pollution during construction and operational phases of the project are as follows: Construction Phase: Includes site clearance and preparation, infrastructure development, building construction and other related activities. Operational phase: Includes emissions from vehicular movement and diesel generators, and negligible emissions from sewage and solid waste handling and disposal. To assess the base line status, Air quality monitoring was done at different locations in the study area. The ambient air monitoring locations have been selected based on the meteorological data obtained from Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai. This will reveal clearly the levels of the pollutants at different localities, which will be useful to the proposed project to have the basic scale of the existing Environment Sampling Location For the purpose of the study six locations as shown in Table-4.3 were selected to assess the baseline environmental quality with respect to the air environment. The locations are depicted in Figure-4.4. The choice of the location is based on the importance of the place with respect to industrial, traffic and other human related activities. Table Air Quality Monitoring Locations Location Code Name of the Location Direction from Project Site Distance (km) A 1 Near Project Site - - A 2 Perambur NW 3.0 A 3 Rayapuram NE 3.2 A 4 Madhavaram NWW 3.8 A 5 Ayanavaram SW 2.8 A 6 Kilpakkam S

46 4.4.3 Parameters and Duration of Sampling The baseline data of air environment is generated for the following parameters: PM 10 PM 2.5 Sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) Oxides of Nitrogen (NO X ) Carbon Monoxide (CO) The sampling duration for PM 10, PM 2.5, SOx and NOx is twenty-four hourly continuous sampling per day and CO is recorded for hourly samples Method of Analysis The air samples are analyzed as per standard methods specified by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and IS PM 10, PM 2.5 present in ambient air are sucked through the cyclone. Coarse and non-respirable dust is separated from the air stream by centrifugal forces acting on the solid particles. These separated particulates fall through the cyclone's conical hopper and gets collected in the sampling cap placed at the bottom. The fine dust (PM 2.5 Microns) forming the respirable fraction of the PM 10 passes the cyclone and is retained by the filter paper. A tapping is provided on the suction side of the blower to provide suction for sampling air through a set of impinges. Samples of gases are drawn at a flow rate of 0.2 liters per minute (Lpm). PM 10 and PM 2.5 have been estimated by gravimetric method. Modified West and Gaeke method (IS Part-II, 1969) has been adopted for estimation of SO 2. Jacobs-Hochheiser method (IS-5182 Part- IV, 1975) has been adopted for the estimation of NOX. Glass tubes have been used to collect the grab samples of carbon monoxide (CO). The CO levels were analyzed through Gas Chromatography. Figure 4.4: Air Monitoring Locations 46

47 4.4.5 Presentation of Data Various statistical parameters like the average, maximum and minimum values have been computed from the observed raw data for all the AAQ monitoring stations. Pollutant specific monitoring results indicating levels of PM 10 and PM 2.5 SO 2, NOx, and CO 2 with respect to applicable standards are presented in Table below. Table 4.4 Ambient Air Quality in the Study Area Location Code A 1 A 2 A 3 A 4 A 5 A 6 Name of the Location Near Project Site Perambur Rayapuram Madhavaram Ayanavaram Kilpakkam Range Values (µgm/m 3 ) PM10 PM2.5 SO 2 NO X CO Min BDL Max BDL Avg BDL Min BDL Max BDL Avg BDL Min BDL Max BDL Avg BDL Min BDL Max BDL Avg BDL Min BDL Max BDL Avg BDL Min BDL Max BDL Avg BDL SPM - Suspended Particulate Matter; RPM - Respirable Particulate Matter; SO 2 - Sulphur dioxide; NOx - Oxides of Nitrogen; CO - Carbon monoxide; * - National ambient air quality standards (CPCB) Ambient Air Quality - Results of Monitoring and Analysis The monitoring was conducted using accepted methodologies in order to characterize the existing ambient air quality in the area near the Project site and to provide background information for the EIA of the Project. As determined by the ambient air quality monitoring data collected for this Project, the measured concentrations of air contaminants at the site are well below the respective objectives, guidelines or standards, where they exist. During the period of the monitoring, no objectionable odours were detected by Field personnel during the visits to the ambient air quality monitoring site. Based on the results of the baseline ambient air quality monitoring conducted and review of ambient air quality data from air quality monitoring stations in studies of nearby regions, air quality in the site is representative of that found in a rural, sparsely populated area, with essentially no substantive sources of air contaminant emissions nearby. The baseline study was carried out to determine the ambient 1-hour and 24-hour TSP levels at the monitoring locations prior to the commencement of the Project works. During the baseline 47

48 monitoring, there shall not be any construction or dust generating activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations. The ambient air quality in all the areas was within the permissible limits as prescribed by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. 4.5 NOISE ENVIRONMENT The physical description of sound concerns its loudness as a function of frequency. Noise in general is sound, which is composed of many frequency components of various loudness, distributed over the audible frequency range. Various noise scales have been introduced to describe, in a single number, the response of an average human to a complex sound made up of various frequencies at different loudness levels. The most common and universally accepted scale is the A weighted Scale which is measured as db (A). This is more suitable for audible range of 20 to 20,000 Hz. The scale has been designed to weigh various components of noise according to the response of a human ear. The impact of noise sources on surrounding community depends on: Characteristics of noise sources (instantaneous, intermittent or continuous in nature). It can be observed that steady noise is not as annoying as one, which is continuously varying in loudness; The time of day at which noise occurs, for example high noise levels at night in residential areas are not acceptable because of sleep disturbance; and The location of the noise source, with respect to noise sensitive land use, which determines the loudness and period of exposure. The environmental impact of noise can have several effects varying from Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) to annoyance depending on loudness of noise. The environmental impact assessment of noise from construction activity, vehicular traffic can be undertaken by taking into consideration various factors like potential damage to hearing, physiological responses, and annoyance and general community responses. Noise survey has been conducted in the study area while covering four zones viz., residential, industrial, commercial and sensitive zones. Noise monitoring has been undertaken for 24 hours at each location. The main objective of noise monitoring in the study area is to establish the baseline noise levels and assess the impact of the total noise generated by the operation of the activities around it Identification of Sampling Locations A preliminary survey has been undertaken to identify the major noise generating sources in the study area. Noise at different noise generating sources has been identified based on the activities in the village area, ambient noise due to small-scale industries, traffic and noise at sensitive areas. The noise monitoring has been conducted for determination of noise levels at 6 locations in the study area. The noise levels at each location were recorded for day and night. The location details of noise monitoring are given in Table-4.5 and shown in Figure Method of Monitoring Using hand held instruments Sound Pressure Level (SPL) measurements and the levels were measured at all locations, recording for 10 minutes at each hour was taken for 24 hours continuously. The day noise levels have been monitored during 6 am to 10 pm and night levels during 10 pm to 6 am at all the sampling locations covered in the study area. 48

49 Location Code Table- 4.5 Details of Noise Monitoring Locations Direction from Name of the Location Project Site Distance (km) N 1 Near Project Site - - N 2 Perambur NW 3.0 N 3 Rayapuram NE 3.2 N 4 Madhavaram NWW 3.8 N5 Ayanavaram SW 2.8 N6 Kilpakkam S 1.0 The results of the ambient noise level monitoring are given in the table below. Table 4.6 Ambient Noise Level of the Study Area * - The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000 Ambient Air Quality Standards in respect of Noise. Location Code Name of the Location Noise Level (dba) L eq (Min) L eq (Max) L eq (Avg) N 1 Near Project Site N 2 Perambur N 3 Rayapuram N 4 Madhavaram N5 Ayanavaram N6 Kilpakkam

50 4.5.3 Observations of Ambient Noise Levels The noise levels in various locations were observed to be in the range of 46 db (A) to 50 db (A). The noise levels at were found within the permissible limit prescribed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). 4.6 WATER ENVIRONMENT The study area, a part of Chennai City, receives about 52.9 % of the annual rainfall during the monsoon months October to December. On an average, rain of 2.5 mm or more falls on 35 days in a year in this region of Chennai. The annual average rainfall is about 1088 mm based on 50 years of data (Source: IMD). Water is a vital commodity for the survival of human beings, animals, and vegetation and also for the proper balance of the eco-system. As such any adverse impact on water quality due to the proposed construction will have serious consequences on the environment. Hence it is imperative to study the water quality of the regime likely to b influenced by the project and allied activities Ground Water Hydrology The occurrence, movement and availability of groundwater of an area depends upon the geological structures, geomorphic setup etc. The top river alluvium of the main two river basins of Araniar and Kosathalayar plays an important role followed by Tertiary sandstone, these two were the major aquifer zones of the interdependent Araniar and Kosathayar basin. These aquifer zones comprises of thick top river alluvial sand with clay loams between 60 to 70 below ground level followed by thick sands, clays and friable medium to coarse grained Tertiary sandstone encountered between 70 to 172 / m 185 below ground level followed by thick Gondwana siltstone / claystone / yellowish or black clay or grit as a contact zone. In certain areas around Kannigaipair, Tamaraipakkam and Poondi, these aquifer zones are extending beyond 145 to 200 bgl. Ground water table was encountered at 3.0m depth m in the boreholes. The whole area of the proposed site is covered by alluvium on the surface with no exposures of other formations. The top soil is composed of silt & sand with gravel and is generally limited to the top layer of 1-2 m. No predominant aquifer of continuous stretches was observed Drainage Pattern The Chennai Basin group consists of a portion of Araniyar Basin, Kosathalayar Basin, Cooum and Adayar basins. Also Buckingham canal which was a source of navigation previously is running parallel to the coast line for about 58 km length in Chennai Basin limit. The above rivers and canals function as drainage courses in this basin. The Otteri Nallah, which runs for a length of 11 km, is also a drainage carrier of Chennai Basin and it discharges into Buckingham canal near Basin Bridge. During the years of 1943, 1976 and 1985 this basin experienced heavy floods and damages due to cyclonic effects. The prevalent encroachments and obstructions in the water ways are the main causes for flooding of Chennai City Ground Water Quality Assessment of baseline data on water environment includes: Identification of ground water sources Collection of water samples Analyzing water samples collected for physico chemical and biological parameters Assessment of water quality in the study area was done to assess the parameters as per the Indian standard IS (drinking water standard). Four ground water samples from bore wells / tube wells 50

51 from various locations in and around the proposed project site within the core zone were collected during summer season 2013 for assessment of the physico chemical quality Sampling and Analysis Water sampling has been done to determine the existing quality of ground and surface water around the project area and also to assess the impact from the proposed project. Sampling has been done by following standard guidelines for physical, chemical and bacteriological parameters. Analysis has been carried out by following methods prescribed in Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater (21st Edition). Samples were collected from surface water body and bore wells in the study area. The site selection was done taking into account the drainage pattern and locations prone to water contamination. Water quality monitoring locations are given in Table- 4.7 and the locations are shown in Figure Location Code Table.4.7: Water Quality Monitoring Locations Name of the Location Source of Water Direction from Project Site Distance (km) W 1 Project Site Bore well - - W 2 Perambur Bore well NW 1.1 W3 Purasavakam Bore well SW 1.8 W4 Retteri Surface Water W 3.8 Figure 4.6: Water Sampling Locations In most of the locations, the water supply is done by private tankers and bore wells. Totally about four different water samples were collected from different locations as mentioned above. The results for 51

52 the parameters analyzed for ground water as well as one sample for the surface water are presented in Table 4.8. Table Water Quality Result S. No Parameters W1 W2 W3 W4 01 Temperature in C Turbidity in NTU ph at 25 C Electrical Conductivity in µmohs/cm Total Dissolved Solids in mg/l Magnesium as Mg in mg/l Alkalinity as CaCO 3 in mg/l Chloride as Cl in mg/l Dissolved Oxygen in mg/l Biochemical Oxygen 27 o C for 3 Days Nil Nil Nil Nil 11 Chemical Oxygen Demand in mg/l BDL(DL:4.0) BDL(DL:4.0) BDL(DL:4.0) BDL(DL:4.0) 12 Sodium as Na in mg/l Potassium as K in mg/l Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (as TKN) in mg/l BDL(DL:1.0) BDL(DL:1.0) BDL(DL:1.0) BDL(DL:1.0) 15 Sulphate as SO 4 in mg/l Chromium as Cr 6 in mg/l BDL(DL: 0.03) BDL(DL: 0.03) BDL(DL: 0.03) 17 Copper as Cu in mg/l BDL(DL: 0.3) BDL(DL: 0.3) BDL(DL: 0.3) 18 Nickel as Ni in mg/l BDL(DL: 0.03) BDL(DL: 0.03) BDL(DL: 0.03) BDL(DL: 0.03) BDL(DL: 0.3) BDL(DL: 0.03) 19 Fluoride as F in mg./l BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) 20 Dissolved Phosphates BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) 21 Iron as Fe in mg/l BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) BDL(DL:0.1) 22 Nitrate as NO3 in mg/l BDL(0.5) BDL(0.5) BDL(0.5) BDL(0.5) Presentation of Results Water bodies and watercourses in Study Area generally have high concentrations of humic material originating from surrounding lands, resulting in elevated colour and dissolved organic carbon values. Concentrations of total suspended solids are usually low in these waters. Major ion concentrations are generally low to moderately low as indicated by conductivity values and total dissolved solids concentrations. These waters are often soft, but have alkalinity levels indicating that they are not 52

53 susceptible to acid deposition. Nutrient concentrations are variable indicating the trophic status of water bodies and watercourses likely range from oligotrophic to eutrophic. These concentrations can be attributed to natural factors and do not indicate that water quality has been compromised by any development activities in surrounding areas. Some seasonal variability was observed in the water bodies sampled. Dissolved oxygen concentration was generally higher during spring and ph was slightly elevated in late summer. Late summer colour values tended to be slightly higher than values measured during the spring. Conductivity values measured during spring were generally higher than summer values. As seen from the above tables, the ph value of the groundwater samples ranges between 7.3 and 7.8. The total dissolved solids in all the locations ranges between 430 and 700. The values of total hardness in all the locations were in the range of 150 and 340. All the physicochemical parameters, for which the water has been tested for, are in the maximum permissible limit as prescribed by IS 10500: BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT The demands of an ever increasing human population have jolted us into the realization that our environment is precious, finite, and deteriorating. This realization came upon us at the very time great numbers of people were experiencing tremendous benefits from our technologies, which have often resulted in significant losses to the natural environment. The environment is composed of non-living and living factors forming a network of inter-relationships that are easily disturbed by people. Within the larger challenge of sustainable development lies the even greater challenge of the requirement of environmentally sound equitable economic growth. Conservation, protection and preservation of the environment have been the cornerstone of the Indian ethos, culture and traditions. It has been enshrined in our constitution also, which is one of the first in the world to recognize the importance of environmental conservation. As the constitution provides the framework for creating a welfare State, it is incumbent on the authorities that the finite natural resources of the country be optimally utilized without adversely affecting the health of the people or the environment Objectives 1. To carry out a systematic baseline survey of Flora and Fauna around 10 km radius of the study area. 2. To list the plants and animals present in the study area as per the classifications of MOEF, 3. To identify the impacts of the proposed expansion activities on the plants and animals, 4. To evaluate the impacts of the proposed action, and to propose Environmental Management Plan Scope of the work 1. The study is required to be carried out as part of EIA study as per the guidelines of the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MOEF) and State Pollution Control Board (SPCB). 2. The study should be based on the systematic field survey and secondary data (One season). Flora a) Area should be divided as core zone and buffer zone b) Listing of all species (scientific and local names) found in the study area - 10 km. Radius. c) Listing of species as per the following classifications: i) Agricultural crops ii) Commercial crops iii) Plantation iv) Natural vegetation v) Grass lands 53

54 vi) Endangered species vii) Endemic species d) Based on the above findings Impacts of the proposed expansion. e) Environmental Management plans to improve existing status of flora in the area. Fauna a) Core and Buffer zone divisions b) Listing of all species in the study area of 10 km radius around the study area c) Schedule for each species as per the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and as amended subsequently should also be furnished. d) Zoological and local name of the species should be furnished e) Listing of species should be classified as: i) Endangered species ii) Endemic species iii) Migratory species iv) Details of aquatic fauna f) Presence of endangered and endemic species should be supplemented by density. Based on the above findings, impacts of proposed expansion should also be assessed Biological Environment Assessment - Flora & Fauna A habitat or an area comprises of different kinds of plants and animals within its boundary. The distribution of flora and fauna in the given area represents the Biological portion of the environment that includes, what is present in the study area, its value, and its response to impacts, description of community uniqueness, the dominant species, and an evaluation of rare or endangered species. The above studies were carried out using the standard methods proposed by John G. Rau and David C. Wooten The detailed ecological assessment of the study area has been carried out with the following objectives: Identification of flora and fauna and their biodiversity within the study area Preparation of checklist of species which also includes endangered, endemic and protected (both floral and faunal categories) Evaluation of impact of proposed project on flora and fauna of the area. The ecological status of the study area has been assessed based on the following methodology: Primary field surveys to establish primary baseline of the study area Compilation of information available in published literatures and as obtained from Forest survey of India, Botanical Survey of India and Zoological Survey of India. Flora The Study of flora involved intensive sample survey of vegetation in the project site and other locations applying standard methods. To examine the trees and shrubs, quadrants of 25 x 25 m and for herbs 2 x 2 m were laid. In each of the larger quadrants (i) Species (ii) their number, and (iii) Girth at Breast Height (GBH), were measured. (Chaturvedi and Khanna, 1982). Abundance, relative abundance, density and relative density of each species diversity and evenness for each of the Zones were calculated using the numerical data (Ludwig and Reynolds 1988, Lande 1996, Smith and Wilson 1996). The standard statistical analysis, the normal frequency diagram and distribution of plants in the study area were analyzed using the procedures of Raunkiaer, The analysis carried out as per Raunkiaer s law of frequency classes provides the information on the Heterogeneity and Homogeneity of plants and its pattern of distribution in the study area. The species of vegetation found in each station were identified and listed according to their families, both in dicotyledons and monocotyledons of the plant kingdom. The plant species were classified as per the 54

55 classifications of Bentham and Hooker and identified by using Gambles book on Flora of Madras Presidency and Mathew s book on Flora of the Tamil Nadu Carnatic. Fauna Both direct and indirect observation methods were used to survey the fauna. Visual encounter (search) method was employed to record vertebrate species. Additionally survey of relevant literature was also done to consolidate the list of vertebrate fauna distributed in the area (Smith , Ali and Ripley 1983, Daniel 1983, Prater 1993, Murthy and Chandrasekhar 1988). Since birds may be considered as indicators for monitoring and understanding human impacts on ecological systems (Lawton 1996) attempt was made to gather quantitative data on the group by. Point Survey Method: Observations were made in each site for 15 minutes duration. Road Side Counts: The observer traveled by motor vehicles from site to site, all sightings were recorded (this was done both in the day and night time). An index of abundance of each species was also established. Pellet and Track Counts: All possible animal tracks and pellets were identified and recorded (South Wood, 1978). Based on the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (WPA 1972, Anonymous. 1991, Upadhyay 1995, Chaturvedi and Chaturvedi 1996) species were short-listed as Schedule II or I and considered herein as endangered species. Species listed in Ghosh (1994) are considered as Indian Red List species. Point Survey Method Observations were made in each site for 15 minutes duration. Road Side Counts The observer traveled by motor vehicles from site to site, all sightings were recorded (this was done both in the day and night time). An index of abundance of each Species was also established. Pellet and Track Counts All possible animal tracks and pellets were identified and recorded (South Wood, 1978). Based on the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (WPA 1972, Anonyomous. 1991, Upadhyay 1995, Chaturvedi and Chaturvedi 1996) species were short-listed as Schedule II or I and considered herein as endangered species. Species listed in Ghosh (1994) are considered as Indian Red List species Description about the Study sites Core Zone: The study was carried out in the core zone including the proposed site. The plain land with small streams flow from north to south. There is Notable River of the study area; A Nallah (Otteri Nallah) originates from south flows towards south and confluences with Buckingham Canal). There are number of medium to minor irrigation tanks in the study area. Entire area is characterized by Scrubby elements and the type of forest is Tropical Scrub forest. It is chiefly characterized by Acacias and Prosopis community representing the Umbrella thorn forest. Buffer Zone: The terrain of the area is undulating with mixed scrub vegetation. The entire area is characterized by Scrubby elements and the type of forest is Tropical Scrub forest. It is chiefly characterized by Acacias and Prosopis community representing the Umbrella thorn forest. 55

56 4.7.5 Assessment of Flora in the study area Plant Communities The Vegetation present within a defined area is termed as a plant community. This is determined by the nature of the dominant species it contains. By the term dominant species or dominance it is understood that species of plants having same life and growth, forms predominating in an area. A systematic order of angiosperm families recorded in the study area is given in Table The distribution of vegetation at different sites, its density, dominance, frequency, Importance Value Index (IVI), economic importance, and medicinal uses were studied and the results are given in the following sections. Table-4.10 Distribution of Vegetation in the Study Area I. Agricultural Crops Nil II. Plantation Nil III. Natural Vegetation a. Herbs Hemidesmus indicus, Carissa spinarum, Heteropogon contortus Stobilanthus, Dodonaea viscosa, Glycosmis pentaphylla, Ochna b. Shrubs squarrosa, Gmelina asiatica, Dodonaea viscosa, Mimusops elengi, Diospyros ebenum, Strychnos nux vomia, Strychnos potatorum, Diospyros chloroxylon, Syzygium cumini, Canthirum decoccum, Ziziphus glaberrima, Acacia leucophloea, Catunaregam spinosa, Buchanania lanzan, Sapinda emarginatus, Albizia amara, Albizia lebbek, Tamarindus indica, Azadirachta indica, Borassus flabellifer, Carissa carandas, Flacourtia indica, Diospyros ferrea,grewia sp., c. Trees Gymnosporia sp., Ixora arborea, Tarenna ascatica, Memecylon umbellatum, Garcinia spicata, Diospyros ferrea, Ziziphus glaberrima, Calliea cinerea, Catunaregam spinosa, Albiziz amara, Buchanania lanzan, Acacia chundra, Allizia amara, Azaridachita indica, Cassia fistula, Anogeissus latifolia, Randia dumentorum, Albizia odaratissma, Carisa carandas, Strychnos nuxvomica, Dodonaea viscosa, Caasia auriculata, Aristida setaca, Heteropogon contortus. IV.Endangered Species Nil V. Endemic Species Nil Andrographis paniculata, Gymnema sylvestris, Ricinus communis, Azadirachta indica, Ficus benghalensis, Moringa oleifera, Zizyphus mauritiana, Solanum torvum, Trianthema portulacastrum, Wattakaka volubilis, Sphaeranthus indicus, Heliotropium indicum, Cassia absus, VI. Medicinal Plants Cassia occidentalis, Terminalia arjuna, Mukia maderaspatana, Cyperus rotundus, Euphorbia hirta, Phyllanthus emblica, Clitoria ternatea, Pongamia pinnata, Coleus aromaticus, Leucas aspera, Ocimum sanctum, Cinnamomum verum, Syzygium cumini, Cardiospermum halicacabum, Solanum trilobatum, Vitex negundo. Around the core zone the natural vegetation showed moderate growth. The core zone has herbaceous and shrubby vegetation which are scarcely distributed. Among natural vegetation the common herbs such as Croton, common grasses like Aristida hysterix, Cynodon dactylon, were in the study areas. Less population of herbs were found in the core zone when compared to the buffer zone. 56

57 Stratification Stratification, or layering, is the occurrence of plants at different levels in a stand. The number of strata above the ground varies according to the kind of community. The study sites are characterized by scrub and deciduous elements with low thorny trees and predominant xerophytes vegetation. The stratification in the study area is as follows: Stratum 1 Grasses Aristida hysterix, Cynodon dactylon Stratum 2 Herbs Crotons parviflora, Tephrosia purpurea, Indogofera spp. Stratum 3 Shrubs Calotropis gigantea, Stratum 4 Trees Azadiracta Indica The above four strata were found in the entire field monitoring stations with equal representation. This shows the life forms of the area and its amplitude. This also reflects the light intensity, temperature, and organic content of the soil and other factors of the area. Periodicity (Phenology) Periodicity refers to the regular seasonal occurrence of various processes such as photosynthesis, growth, pollination, flowering and ripening of fruits and seeds; and the manifestations of the processes, such as formation of leaves, elongation of shoots, appearance of flowers and dissemination of seeds. This results from the inherent genetic characteristics of each species, under the influence of a particular combination of the environmental conditions. Periodicity means particularly the recurrence at certain times of these processes and their manifestations, while phenology refers more to the appearance of the manifestations at certain seasons of the year, rather than to their cyclic nature. The characteristic species of the scrub forests and other dominant plants are in flowering and are well adapted to the seasonal changes in the physical environment. Periodicity and Phenology is perfectly maintained in the study area among the various species recorded during the survey. Vitality (Vigor) Vitality relates to the condition of plant and its capacity to complete the life cycle, while vigor refers more specifically to the state of health or development within a certain stage. The studies carried out at different sites reveals that the plant species found in the area are well-developed plants, which regularly complete their life cycle. Life form The life form in a broad sense is meant the characteristic vegetative appearance such as the size, shape, branching etc. The life form observed in the study area reveals that there are several communities ranging from open grassland, succulent perennials (Opuntia sps. and Euphorbia sps), and small annual plants. The kinds of life forms, the number of individuals of each kind and their spacing gives a good structure to the community. Quantitative Characteristics The quantitative characteristics are the one, which can be readily measured. It includes density of the plants, basal area dominance and frequency. 57

58 Relative density and dominance The relative density and dominance values of different species found in the study are shows that the dominant plants of various sites have a high percentage value of density and dominance. These values are incorporated in calculating the Importance value Index. Importance value Index (IVI) The Importance Value Index (IVI) is an expression used to summarize the plant data; it is desirable to use as many values as possible. The density of one species gives an idea of the number of plants in a stand; the dominance gives an idea of relative degree to which a species predominate a community by its numbers, size or biomass. Species that exerts the greatest control or influence in the community are called dominants. Plant dispersion over an area or within a community is another parameter; frequency is the measure of species in a series of plots. Frequency expresses the proportion of equal size sample plots in which at least one plant of that species occur relative to the number of plots taken. Thus the IVI of species is the combination of relative density, relative dominance and relative frequency values of a species added together to obtain a single expression. Importance value Index (IVI). The Importance value allows quantitative comparison of each species in a stand with the other species in the stand, or allows comparison of the species in one stand with species in other stands. IVI Values - Core Zone S. Frequency Relative Relative Relative Relative Scientific Name No. Class Abundance Dominance Frequency Density IVI 1 Adhatoda zeylanica D Agave sisalana Perinne C Ailanthus excelsa Roxb. D Aloe vera D Aristida hystrix E Asparagus racemosus D Azadirachta indica (L.) Adr. 7 Juss. A Cocos nucifera L C Emblica officinalis E Euphorbia antiquorum L. B Euphorbia tircalli L. D Ficus benghalensis L. B Ficus religiosa L. E Gloriosa superba E Indigofera soo B Ipomea auatica (L) R. Br. E Jasmimunofficinalae L. E Mimosa pudica C Morinda tinctoria B Moringa olifera Lam. D Phyllanthus emblica L. C Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb) 22 Benth. C Pongamia pinnata L. D Status of flora as per Raunkiaer s frequency classes 58

59 Raunkiaer classified the occurrence of species in an area into five classes of frequency Class A (1 to 20%), Class B (21 to 40%) Class C (41 to 60%) Class D (61 to 80%) and Class E (81 to 100). The normal distribution of the frequency percentages derived from such classification is expressed as A>B>C=D<E, and has been named Raunkiaer s Law of Frequency. The numbers of species falling in the above five categories are given in the following tables. The ecological status of vegetation was calculated using the Raunkiaer s normal frequency diagrams and the results are given in Table and depicted in Fig. for core zone. Ecological Status of Vegetation as per Raunkiaer s Law Dominant Species Status Core Zone 0 3 Kms. Adhatoda zeylanica, Agave sisalana Perinne, Ailanthus excelsa Roxb, Aloe vera, Aristida hystrix, Asparagus racemosus, Azadirachta indica (L.) Adr. Juss. Cocos nucifera L, Emblica officinalis,euphorbia antiquorum L.,Euphorbia tircalli L.,Ficus benghalensis L,Ficus religiosa L, Br.,Jasmimunofficinalae L,Mimosa pudica, Morinda tinctoria, Moringa olifera Lam, Phyllanthus emblica L, Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb) Benth, Pongamia pinnata a L. Heterogeneous Fulfills Raunkiaer s Law Conclusions were made as per the Raunkiaer s law on the basis of the following (a) Whether the distribution of plants fulfils the Raunkiaer s law of frequency diagram, if it does not fulfill then it indicates that the distribution of plant community is affected by human impact. (b) A comment on the impact whether the distribution is Homogeneous or Heterogeneous. The result shows that, the distribution is Heterogeneous, in Core and Buffer zones thus fulfilling the Raunkiaer s law. The Heterogeneity observed among the plant community in the Core and Buffer zones reveals that, the characteristic species of scrub forests are dominant and occupies the class E. They were recorded in all the stands used for this investigation showing the highest frequency; there is a wide distribution of plant species observed in various stands. 100% Frequency were not recorded for many characteristic species except for Prosopis juliflora and Acacia nilotica. Though, these two species are dominant, the distribution of vegetation is heterogeneous in nature. The Heterogeneous status indicates that there is no human impact in the core and buffer zones. Habitat pattern The environmental conditions with one kind of habitat exhibit variation from spot to spot. The ecological amplitude of one or more of the species under consideration delimits the extent of a habitat. The habitat pattern is associated with the environmental conditions; this has been very well manifested in the study area. Though the topography is plain with some undulations here and there the presence of scrub elements and deciduous species clearly shows the habitat pattern in this area. 59

60 Changes The Changes from the initial establishment of vegetation on an area to the terminal climax community are continuous. However, a given group of species will reach a peak of dominance at a certain stage of the sequence. Then as the dominance of this group decreases, the dominance of another group of species will develop to a maximum. This kind of change in dominant species have been observed in the study area, among different transects. The Change from one stage to the subsequent stage may be especially prominent where there is a change of life form of the dominant species. There is usually an increase in productivity per unit area, in organic mass per unit area because of the presence of the larger life forms, in complexity and diversity of species and life forms, and in the relative stability and homogeneity of the populations. The soil and other aspects of the habitat will also undergo progressive development. Climax The Climax community is the one in which no further directional change takes place under the prevailing environmental conditions. This is the terminus of habitat and vegetation development. The climax community of the study area is Azadiracta indica and the grass like Ariztida hystrix. The climax community is in the steady state with respect to productivity structure and population, with the dynamic balance of its populations dependent upon its respective site. The community has a maximum diversity, relative stability and homogeneity of the species populations within and between the stands of a given climax type. The given climax type is characterized in appearance within and between stands. Discussion on vegetation analysis The interpretations based on the above analysis and the floristic composition reveals that, the vegetation encountered in the study area is termed as the original characteristic of Thorn forests / Scrub forests, Southern tropical dry deciduous forests, Northern mixed dry deciduous forests, and tropical dry ever green forests. The core zone comprises of Residential, commercial and agricultural and fallow lands. The types of forest / vegetation found in the study area are Open scrub along with the representative elements of the deciduous and dry ever green forest types. Physiognomically it occurs in the shape of scrub woodland or thicket; the latter may be dense or discontinuous. Floristically it is distinguished by some characteristic and preferential species (Braun Blanquet, 1932), exclusively or mostly confined to this vegetation type, in relation to the types described by champion (1936) and champion and Seth (1968). Status of the plants There is no endangered, threatened, or rare species of plants recorded in the study area Assessment of fauna in the study The details of fauna found in core zone and buffer zone are given in the following Table Table-4.11: Fauna in the study area S. NO. Common Name Scientific Name Status BUTTERFLIES AND INSECTS 1 Common crow Euploea core core C 2 Grass yellow Terias hecabe C 3 Dragon fly Agrion sp & Petalura sp C 4 Grasshopper Hieroglyphus sp C 60

61 5 Termite Hamitermes silvestri C 6 Ant Monomorium indicum C AMPHIBIANS 1 Common Indian Toad Bufo melanostictus C REPTILES 1 Common Garden lizard Calotes versicolor C 2 Common skink Mabuya carinata C BIRDS 1 Pond Heron Ardeola grayii C, R 2 Small Egret Egretta intermedia C, R 3 Pariah Kite Milvus migrans govinda C,R 4 Brahminy Kite Haliastur indus C, R 5 Shikra Accipiter badius C, R 6 Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis C, R 7 RoseRingedParakeet Psittacula krameri C, R 8 Pied Crested Cuckoo Clamator jacobinus C, R 9 Koel Eudynamys scolopacea C, R 10 Spotted Owlet Athene brama C, R 11 Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus C, R 12 Whitebreasted Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis C, R 13 Green Bee-Eater Merops orientalis C, R 14 Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis C, R 15 Lesser Golden Backed Woodpeker Dinopium benghalense C, R 16 Black Drango Dicrurus adsimilis C, R 17 Common Myna Acridotheres tristis C, R 18 Indian Tree Pie Dendrocitta vagabunda C, R 19 House Crow Corvus splendens C, R 20 Jungle Crow Corvus macrorhynchos C, R 21 Common Wood Shrike Tephrodornis pondicerianus C, R 22 Redvented Bul Bul Pycnonotus cafer C, R 23 White headed Babbler Turdoides affinis C, R 24 House Sparrow Passer domesticus C, R MAMMALS 1 Indian Palm squirrel Funambulus palmarum C, R 2 Indian pipistrella Pipistrellus coromandra C, R C - Common M -Migrant R -Resident Based on the above tables, the following observations were made: Invertebrates The insects in the study area are interrelated with each other and other organisms. They are in perfect balance in their existence. Some of them act as pests, while others are useful and beneficial to the environment and human beings. Pisces The lentic and lotic systems represent common fishes which supports the local people during the seasons. Since the 5 km radius us covered by Nesavalar Nagar Lake and Bay of Bengal sea most of fishing activities is takes place along the area. 61

62 Amphibians The toads and frogs were the amphibians recorded in the study area. Many of them were seen along the Lentic water system and other areas. Reptiles The reptiles recorded in the study area include lizards, and snakes. Birds Birds play an important role in understanding the ecological balance and its interrelationships. The occurrence of birds in various locations largely depends on the site characteristics and their presence in different study sites reveals that there is a good relationship between the birds and other organisms and the environment. The maintenance of the eco-balance could be seen in the selected study areas. Mammals The distribution of mammals is largely dependent upon the environment of the respective areas. The mammals present in the study area include Mongoose, Indian palm Squirrel, etc. These mammals are spread over the study area. 4.8 SOCIO ECONOMIC AND HEALTH ENVIRONMENT The industrial growth and infrastructure development in an area bound to create its impact on the socio-economic aspects of the local population of the area experiencing development. The impacts may be positive or negative depending upon the developmental activity. To assess the anticipated impacts of the area as a whole and industrial growth on the socio-economic aspects of people, it is necessary to study the existing socio-economic status of the local population, which will be helpful for making efforts to further improve the quality of life in the area under study. The methodology adopted for the study was based on comparing the results of the following: Information gathered from site visit; and Review of secondary data (such as District Primary Census Hand Book 2001 of Thiruvallur districts etc.) for the study area in and around 10-km radius area of the existing industry; The characteristics encompassed by this study include size, growth rate, density, vital statistics, and distribution of a specified population. Births, deaths and migration are the big three of demography, jointly producing population stability or change. A population s composition may be described in terms of basic demographic features age, sex, family and household status and by features of the population s social and economic context ethnicity, religion, language, education, occupation, income and wealth. Demography is a central component of societal contexts and social change. The current assessment of the demographic pattern would be very useful for understanding social and economic problems and identifying potential solutions. The Demographic structure of the study area was taken from the secondary data collected from the District Primary Census Handbooks The demographic assessment carried out through the secondary sources is given in following table. Total Population: The population details of the study area are given below. Total Population in the Study Area : 2,754,756 Total Male Population in the Study Area : 13, 97,407 Total Female Population in the Study Area : 13, 57,349 62

63 The average sex ratio of the study area : 971 Females / 1000 Males In the study area, Perambur had the first largest population of 1,006,898. The sex ratio of Perambur of Purasawalkam - Perambur (1013 females/1000 males) was the highest in the study area, whereas the sex ratio of the Ayanavaram of Purasawalkam - Perambur (886 females/1000 males) was the least. SC and ST Population: The average SC population in the study area is around 44% and the percentage of ST population in the study area is 1.3%. The highest SC proportion to the total population was observed in Perambur of Purasawalkam - Perambur Taluk (93.9%) and it was nil in two villages of the study area. The highest proportion of ST population to the total population was observed in Ayanavaram of Purasawalkam Perambur Taluk (23.2%) and it was nil in eight villages of the study area. Households: The average details of the study area are given below. Total number of households in the study area : The average number of households per village : 671 Average Household size in the study area : 4.4 Perambur Village of Purasawalkam Perambur Taluk had the largest household size with 5.0 persons per household and Ayanavaram of Purasawalkam Perambur Taluk with the household size of 2.3 was the smallest. Literacy and Occupation: Average literacy rate of the study area : 76.9 % Average female literacy rate in the study area : 43.8 % Percentage of workers in the study area : 37.7 % Percentage of female workers in the study area : 25.9 % of total female population The methodology adopted for the present study is the review of secondary data (2011 Census and District Statistical Handbook) with respect to population, occupational structure and infrastructure facilities available in the region in 10 km radius area. The information on socio-economic aspects of the study area will be compiled from various other secondary sources, which include public offices, semi-government and government agencies Demography and Settlements The entire area covered in the proposed project site is virtually a vacant land with no inhabitation or any activities. The area is devoid of any hutments or activities and hence the issue of any impact on socio economic scenario in this core zone does not arise. All the areas in the buffer zone are moderately developed areas falling within 10 km radius form the proposed construction project Infrastructure facilities in the proposed area Educational Facilities 63

64 All the area in the buffer zone has adequate educational facilities. Most of the villages in the buffer zone have got educational facility up to primary level. In the entire area, the primary, middle and high schools, colleges and polytechnics are listed below in Table Table-4.12 List of Educational Institutions S.No. Description Total 1 Primary school 72 2 Middle school 54 3 High school 86 4 Higher secondary school 61 5 Arts and Science Colleges 33 6 Engineering Colleges 29 7 Polytechnics 12 Water Supply Ground water through open and bore wells are the major source of protected water supply in the district. Water supply to these wards is also supplied through tanker Lorries. Water supply system in case of rural areas is common wells and public water supply system maintained by municipality. The other major resource is groundwater from wells and tube wells spread all across the area. The study reveals that all the villages have adequate drinking water facilities from ground water sources that include wells, deep bore wells, water supplied by Govt. Agencies and hand pumps. Transport The development of transport and communications system is an important factor for the proposed development. The availability and coverage of transport and communication system invites industries to cluster in one area, even if some other difficulties are there. The City is well connected by roads with the adjoining urban center, Chennai and, Chengalpattu. The Kancheepuram district has a combination of two modes of transport within the city. Metropolitan Rapid transport system (MRTS) and Metropolitan transport Corporation buses. The city also has a fleet of three wheelers for hire, called Auto rickshaws. They are the most economical mode of hired transport. There is a choice of independent taxis and private tourist cabs in the city. Power Electricity is one of the most vital infrastructure inputs. Fairly well developed infrastructure and comfortable power situation offer significant competitive advantages to Tamilnadu. All the villages in the zone have electric power supply, which is mainly used for Domestic purposes. While some portions in the study area utilize the electric power supply for Agricultural use and industrial uses. Port facilities and Airports Chennai has an all-weather harbour with modern container facilities. Chennai port which endeared itself to the progress of Indian industries and economy is one of the best in the country. Chennai port is ahead of trade in creating facilities for India s International Trade and Commerce. It is a versatile port with facilities to handle liquid bulk, dry bulk, neo bulk, break-bulk and containers in a quick, efficient and modern way. It is a port with Deepest Draft in the country. The Chennai Port is well aware and responsive to the problems of shipping, ware housing and distribution. Besides the existing major sea port, a new satellite port with facilities for bulk cargo handling is being built at Ennore, 30 km away from Chennai to ease the congestion at Chennai port. Chennai has an international airport with more than 60 direct flights every week to more than 15 64

65 countries in Europe and Far Eastern countries. And it has also a domestic airport with flights daily to different parts of the country. Medical facilities Human development and enhancing the quality of life of the people are the ultimate objectives of all activities. Health is the vital ingredient of all developmental activities. The Study area has well equipped hospitals to handle the health related problems and to promote positive health. Table-4.13 below shows the healthcare infrastructure of the study area. Table 4.13: Details of Healthcare Facilities Type of Healthcare Institution Numbers present in study area Government General Hospitals 2 Urban Health Posts 7 Voluntary Health Organizations 12 Approved Nursing Homes 6 Post Partum Centers 2 Government Siddha Hospitals 1 Government Homeopathy Hospitals 3 Religion, Fairs and Festivals Various religious groups consisting of Hindus, Muslims, and Christians inhabit the study area. Hindus and Christians are the predominant religious groups followed by Muslims. The population consists of many communities and castes that live in good harmony in the study area. Fairs and festivals are held in the different parts of the study area throughout the year Economic Aspects Chennai is the biggest industrial and commercial centre in South India, and a major cultural, economic and educational centre. Chennai is known as the "Detroit of India" for its automobile industry. Chennai has been occupying an important position in the southern region ever since it was founded by the East India Company in the 17 th century. Its importance in the region can be attributed to the fact that till recently it has been the major commercial, administrative and military center for the entire south. The contribution of port and laying the trunk railway lines and other major highways radiating from it, linking the major cities in India and vast hinterland have strengthened its preeminent position especially during the British period. The population of Chennai city was half a million during the initial period of 20 th century, The city had doubled its population in 60 years from 3.23 lakh in 1871 to 6.47 lakh in The electrification of railway line from Beach to Tambaram created another dimension for the development of industries. The period between 1947 to 2001 has seen unprecedented spatial growth of the city required largely by post independence industrialization, liberalization, privatization and globalization. Apart from the large and heavy industries in the public sector such as Integral Coach Factory, Heavy Vehicles Factory, the Manali Refinery, Fertilizers several automobiles and ancillary industries were also established. The development of two industrial estates namely, Guindy and Ambattur also quantified the development to a faster speed. Now Chennai's economy has a broad industrial base in the automobile, computer, technology, hardware manufacturing and healthcare sectors. As of 2012, the city is India's second largest exporter of information technology (IT) and business process outsourcing (BPO) services Cultural Heritage The Greater Chennai region has a rich cultural heritage of languages, arts and tradition. Hindus form the majority of Chennai's population but the city also has substantial Muslim and Christian minorities. 65

66 As per the 2001 census, Hindus formed 81.3 percent of the total population while Muslims made up 9.4 percent and Christians, 7.6 percent. Hinduism is the native faith of Chennai. The temples towns of Mylapore, Triplicane, Thiruvottiyur, Saidapet and Thiruvanmiyur, which are now part of Chennai city, had been visited by the Saivite saints called Nayanmars. The saint Vayilar Nayanar was born and brought up in Mylapore The majority of the population in Chennai are Tamils. Tamil is the primary language spoken in Chennai. English is spoken largely by white-collar workers, often mixed into Tamil. Telugus form the majority among the non-tamil communities. In 2001, out of the 2,937,000 migrants (33.8% of its population) in the city, 61.5% were from other parts of the state, 33.8% were from rest of India and 3.7% were from outside the country. Chennai, along with Mumbai and Delhi and Kolkata, is one of a few Indian cities which is home to a diverse population of ethno-religious communities Aesthetic Aspects The project site overlooks the Korattur Lake and offers a beautiful overlook of the lake. The sites roads, walkways, footpaths are all well planned and designed to increase the aesthetic appeal of the site and its natural surroundings Communications and Transportation Chennai is one of the four cities in India through which the country is connected with the rest of the world through undersea fibre-optic cables, the other three being Mumbai, Kochi, and Tuticorin. The city is the landing point of major submarine telecommunication cable networks such as SMW 4 (connecting India with Western Europe, Middle East and Southeast Asia), i2i (connecting India with Singapore), TIC (connecting India with Singapore), and BRICS (connecting India with Russia, China, South Africa, Brazil and the United States). The 3,175-km-long, 8-fiber-paired i2i has the world's largest design capacity of 8.4 terabits per second. The Chennai-Tiruvallur High Road (CTH Road or NH205) passes through Ambattur and the Chennai- Kolkata highway is just about 7 km from the place making it a strategic location. On an average, about 40,000 passenger car units use the CTH Road. The Perambur bus terminus is located adjacent to the MTH Road and has MTC (city buses) connecting Perambur with various points in Chennai city. A lot of buses from Vyasarpadi and the outskirts of Chennai also pass through Permabur, offering good connectivity Traffic Study Traffic assessment of the road abutting the project site (i.e., Stephenson road) was carried out to estimate the peak traffic load. The existing traffic load during the morning and evening peak hours were studied and the vehicle counts were categorized under different heads. The different categories of vehicular load were converted to PCU equivalents by applying the respective M factors. The peak traffic load in terms of PCUs was arrived and the incremental traffic due to the project was worked out. This projected traffic load (incremental) was compared with the standard carrying capacity of the existing road. It was observed that the ratio between Volume and Capacity (V/C ratio) was well within the limits. Hence the impact of the traffic due to the proposed project is insignificant. The detail of the traffic assessment is presented below. 66

67 Traffic Survey Data Sheet Project: SPR Binny SPR Construction Pvt. Ltd, Location: Stephenson Road Date of Survey: Direction of Flow (Lane): Both (2 Lane 2 Way Traffic) Time Two Wheelers (Motor cycle, Scooter etc.) Three Wheelers (Autorickshaw, motorised carts etc.) Four Wheelers (Passenger cars, Pickup vans etc.) Morning Peak Six Wheelers (Light commercial vehicles, Trucks & Buses etc.) Bicycles Others (Carts etc) Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Item Total Total Number of Vehicles 3523 Percentage Composition M. Factor PCU Total No. of PCUs (For 4 Hrs) 3661 Total No. of PCUs/Hr (Avg.) 915 Time Two Wheelers (Motor cycle, Scooter etc.) Three Wheelers (Autorickshaw, motorised carts etc.) Four Wheelers (Passenger cars, Pickup vans etc.) Evening Peak Six Wheelers (Light commercial vehicles, Trucks & Buses etc.) Bicycles Others (Carts etc) Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Hrs Item Total Total Number of Vehicles 3857 Percentage

68 Composition M. Factor PCU Total No. of PCUs (For 4 Hrs) 3936 Total No. of PCUs/Hr (Avg.) 984 Existing Traffic Load in road in PCUs/Hr Increase in Vehicular Population due to Proposed Development Estimated Future Traffic Volume in PCUs/Hr (V) Capacity of Existing Road in PCUs per Hour as per IRC (C) V/C Ratio MP- 915 EP PCUs/Hr MP EP PCU 0.92 Based on the estimated increase in vehicular traffic from the proposed project, adequacy rate has been calculated for the proposed site. It is concluded that, V/C ratio is less than 0.60 hence there will not be significant impact due to the increase in traffic volume. 68

69 5.0 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 5.1 INTRODUCTION This chapter presents the assessment of various impacts due to the proposed construction project in the study area. Generally, the environmental impacts can be categorized as either primary or secondary. Primary impacts are those, which are attributed directly by the project and secondary impacts are those, which are indirectly induced and typically include the changed patterns of social and economic activities by the proposed project. The Proposed construction project would create impact on the environment in two distinct phases: Impacts during the construction phase Impacts during the operation phase The construction and operational phase of the proposed construction project comprises of various activities each of which will have impact on some or other environmental parameters. Various impacts during the construction or operational phase and the environmental parameters have been studied to estimate the impacts on environment. The identification and details on impact of the project activity on each of the above environmental attributes are discussed below. 5.2 IDENTIFICATION OF IMPACTS Construction of residential and commercial complexes is for the benefit of general population, however, like any other projects, it also has impacts on existing Environmental settings and if not properly evaluated and controlled, it may lead to imbalances. These could be reversible, irreversible, temporary or permanent. The identification of impacts is important as it leads to the other elements such as quantification and evaluation of impacts. Although a number of non-projects related impacts have been identified while describing the existing (baseline) environmental status, it is necessary at this stage to identify the types of the potential impacts which might be caused by the proposed development. Many techniques are available for identification of impacts. In case of this project, the "Matrix Method" was adopted, which involves an understanding of the cause-condition-effect relationship between an activity and environmental parameters. It is very useful as gross screening tool for impact identification method. This method has been basically advantageous in recognizing the series of impacts that could follow from the proposed activities. The idea was to account for the project activity and identify the types of impacts that could initially occur. This process was repeated until all possible types of impacts were identified. With this method the potential impact of the proposed project has been identified. 5.3 IMPACT EVALUATION Impact evaluation assesses the expected changes in the environment due to the proposed project. It is the tool for identifying the magnitude of impact and forms basis for the development of Environmental Management Plan. Weightage for each impact is given below. Evaluation of impacts considering both positive and negative effects on air, noise, land, water and socioeconomic environment during the construction and operation phase of the project is given in Table 5.1 and 5.2 respectively. 69

70 Significant Non Significant Direct Indirect Short Term Long Term Unavoidable Irreversible Mitigation Required Table 5.1 Evaluation Of Construction Phase Impact Environment al Parameter Project Activities Impact Type Weight age CONSTRUCTION PHASE Site Clearance & Leveling Negative -4 Site excavation Negative -4 Foundation (Shallow Foundation) Negative 0 Material Storage & Handling Negative -4 Generation and AIR disposal of ENVIRON construction MENT waste Negative -4 Vehicular Movement Negative -4 Labour s Camp No Impact - Public Health & No Safety Impact - Economic No Activity Impact - NOISE ENVIRON MENT Site Clearance & Leveling Negative 0 Site excavation Negative -4 Foundation (Shallow Foundation) Negative -4 Material Storage & Handling Negative -1 Generation and disposal of No construction Impact - waste Vehicular Movement Negative -1 Labour s Camp No Impact - Public Health & No Safety Impact - Economic Activity No Impact - LAND ENVIRON MENT Site Clearance & Leveling Site excavation Foundation (Shallow Foundation) No Impact No Impact Negative

71 Material Storage & Handling Generation and disposal of construction waste Vehicular Movement Labour s Camp Public Health & Safety Economic Activity Negative -4 Negative -4 Negative -1 No Impact No Impact No Impact WATER ENVIRON MENT SOCIO ECONOMI C ENVIRON MENT Site Clearance & Leveling Site excavation Foundation (Shallow Foundation) Material Storage & Handling Generation and disposal of construction waste Vehicular Movement Negative -2 No Impact No Impact Negative -4 Negative -4 Negative 0 Labour s Camp Negative -4 Public Health & No Safety Impact - Economic No Activity Impact - Site Clearance & Leveling Negative -2 Site excavation Negative -2 Foundation (Shallow Foundation) Negative -2 Material Storage & Handling Negative 0 Generation and disposal of construction Negative -2 waste Vehicular Movement Negative -2 Labour s Camp Negative -2 Public Health & Safety Positive 6 Economic Activity Positive

72 Significant Non Significant Direct Indirect Short Term Long Term Unavoidable Irreversible Mitigation Required Table 5.2 Evaluation of Operation Phase Impact Environm ental Parameter Project Activities Impact Type Weig htage OPERATION PHASE Occupancy No Impact - Operation of DG Sets Negative -8 Sewage Generation & Negative 0 AIR Discharge ENVIRO Rainwater NMENT No Impact - Harvesting Solid waste Generation Negative -6 Gardening & Landscaping Positive 10 NOISE ENVIRO NMENT LAND ENVIRO NMENT WATER ENVIRO NMENT Occupancy No Impact - Operation of DG Sets Negative -8 Sewage Generation & No Impact -- Discharge Rainwater Harvesting No Impact - Solid waste Generation No Impact - Gardening & Landscaping Positive 10 Occupancy Negative 0 Operation of DG Sets Negative 0 Sewage Generation & Negative -8 Discharge Rainwater Harvesting Positive 8 Solid waste Generation Negative -8 Gardening & Landscaping Positive 10 Occupancy Negative -8 Operation of DG Sets Negative -6 Sewage Generation & Negative -8 Discharge 72

73 Rainwater Harvesting Solid waste Generation Gardening & Landscaping Positive 10 Negative 0 Positive 10 SOCIO ECONOM IC ENVIRO NMENT Occupancy Positive 10 Operation of DG Sets Negative -6 Sewage Generation & Negative -6 Discharge Rainwater Harvesting Positive 8 Solid waste Generation Negative -6 Gardening & Landscaping Positive IMPACT ON AIR ENVIRONMENT Construction Phase Impacts of construction activities on air quality are cause for concern mainly in the dry months due to dust particles. The main sources of emission during the construction period are the movement of equipment at site and dust emitted during the leveling, grading, earthworks, and other construction related activities. The dust emitted during the above mentioned activities depend upon the type of soil being excavated. However, the impact will be for short duration and confined locally to the construction site. The composition of dust in this kind of operation is, however, mostly inorganic and non-toxic in nature. The impact of such activities would be temporary and restricted to the construction phase. The impact will be confined within the project boundary and is expected to be negligible outside the plant boundaries. Proper upkeep and maintenance of vehicles, sprinkling of water on roads and construction site are some of the measures that would greatly reduce the impacts during the construction phase. Thus, it is inferred that no significant impacts are expected on the overall ambient air quality due to the proposed construction activities. Transportation and Storage of Construction Materials: Transportation of heavy machinery and building materials implies heavy traffic on the roads leading to the site with possible negative impacts to the surrounding area (dust, spillage, emissions and noise). Transportation of construction materials as well as improper storage of building materials, especially gravel, sand and cement in the construction site will lead to inadvertent dispersal of materials during heavy rain or high wind during dry periods. Measures will be adopted for proper handling of construction materials to reduce the negative impact Operation Phase The existing atmospheric air quality in the proposed project site and its surroundings are well and values of the pollutants PM 2.5, PM 10, NO x and SO 2 are within the limits prescribed by the central pollution control board. 73

74 There is no major pollutant envisaged from the proposed development. It is likely that the air quality may be affected slightly due to the emissions from the vehicular movement. The emission from DG sets will be very negligible since it will be used only during power cut in the necessary area. However in the case of DG sets the stack will be properly designed to meet the stipulations of CPCB. These emissions will be insignificant and the environmental pollutant levels will be maintained within the prescribed limits. Hence there shall not be any adverse impact on the air environment around the proposed Residential Complex. 5.5 IMPACT ON AMBIENT NOISE Construction Phase During the construction noise levels will increase due to use of machinery and heavy vehicles in the project area. In terms of noise emission; demolition, excavation and construction work can be divided into two phases, namely (1) Demolition and Earthworks and (2) building works. Loading and unloading of construction materials, fabrication, handling of equipment and material, operation of power shovels etc. will be the major source of noise during the construction phase. Various construction activities will cause short-term noise impact in the immediate vicinity of the project site. The areas affected are those close to the site and hence the impacts are localized. At the peak of the construction, marginal increase in noise levels is expected to occur. The peak noise levels from continuous construction activity may be as high as db (A). The noise control measures during construction phase shall restrict the noise levels to lower levels. Hence the overall impact on the ambient noise levels will not be significant Operation Phase There will not be any major impact from noise. This is because no equipment or other infrastructure facility in the project generates noise more than db (A). However, the only noise generation source is the DG set. The promoters have decided to adopt adequate steps to maintain the noise levels within the prescribed limits. For the same all the DG facility will be sound insulated and acoustic proofing will be done in the places where these DG sets are installed. Traffic Noise: Traffic would be induced during both construction and operation phase of the project. Vehicles associated with construction would generate intermittent noise throughout the vicinity of the proposed action. In the operation phase, vehicular parking is being provided in the basement, ground floor and first floor of the building where noise levels are expected to increase substantially during the peak hours due to starting, idling and roaring of vehicles. 5.6 IMPACT ON LAND ENVIRONMENT No blasting is envisaged during construction phase of the project. The rehabilitation and resettlement issues are not involved in the project. Furthermore the existing environmental conditions of the project site reveal that the land is not contaminated or polluted. The upper/top level of soil will be affected during construction phase but this will be limited to a portion of the project area. Also the impact due to exploitation of ground water is insignificant in the site due to the sourcing of water from other sources during the operation phases. Hence there will not be any adverse impact on the surrounding land use during the construction period as well as during the operation phase. 74

75 5.7 IMPACT ON WATER RESOURCES Construction Phase The required water quantity for construction will be utilized from the available resource in the project area. Impact on water quality during construction phase may be due to non-point discharges of sewage generated from the construction work force, stationed at the site. Construction activities for the proposed development can have minor impact on hydrology and ground water quality of the area if the construction waste leaches into ground. Potential sources of impacts on the hydrology and ground water quality during the construction phase would be soil runoff, improper disposal of construction debris, spillage of oil and grease from the vehicles and wastewater stream generated from on site activities such as vehicles washing, workshop etc. Precautions and preventive measure will be taken at the site during construction to avoid any ground and surface water contamination hence the overall impact on water environment during construction phase due to proposed project is likely to be insignificant Operation Phase The proposed project requires 826 KLD of water to meet the entire common and per capita requirements. The water will be sourced from CMWSSB. The total quantity of wastewater generation is likely to be 1377 KLD. No impact from wastewater, this is because the sewage generated will be treated and recycled within the project components for flushing and gardening. The excess treated sewage will be discharged to CMWSSB sewer lines. Therefore, surface and subsurface contamination due to treated wastewater will not be envisaged. 5.8 IMPACTS DUE TO WASTE DISPOSAL Stacking and Disposal of Construction Materials Stacking of construction materials will be confined to the project site only and also temporary sheds will be provided to store the materials, hence no impacts on surrounding area will be envisaged. Solid wastes generated due to proposed project during construction phase include sand, gravel, stone, bricks, plastic, paper, wood, metal and glass. During the construction, wastes would be generated at the rate of kg/sq. mt. Recyclables will be sent to authorized recyclers. Hence there is no significant impact due to waste disposal during the construction phase Operation Phase The solid waste generated from the project will be collected daily and moved to a common temporary storage facility by the staff dedicated for waste collection. The collected Solid waste will be composted by using an Organic Waste Converter and used for greenbelt development. 5.9 IMPACTS ON ECOLOGICAL RESOURCES Construction Phase The impact of construction activities will be primarily confined to the project site. The project site is a vacant land and devoid of any vegetation. Thus the site development work will not lead to any significant loss of any important plant species. Deposition of fugitive dust on leaves of nearby vegetation may lead to temporary reduction of photosynthesis. Such impacts will, however, be confined mostly to the initial period of construction phase. Hence the proposed development will not lead to habitat destruction, fragmentation or vegetation damage. 75

76 5.9.2 Operation Phase No wastewater will be discharge into the surface water stream. Hence, there will not be any impact on the aquatic ecology. Also the proposed project is to be located in an earmarked residential zone, which does not have any natural park or sanctuary or forest area in the immediate vicinity. The flora and fauna pattern in the area will not be disturbed due to the project. Hence the overall impact on ecological resources due to proposed project is likely to be insignificant. Moreover the entire project area would be landscaped with variety of plants IMPACT ON TRAFFIC LEVELS Construction Phase The movement of construction equipments will be mostly within the site during the project. Vehicles bringing in raw materials like sand, cement and aggregate materials will be moving into the site from outside, which will be strictly controlled and monitored as per the traffic rules, to avoid any sort of disturbance to the traffic and safety of the surrounding areas. Hence the impact due to the vehicular movement during the construction phase would be minor or insignificant Operation Phase Based on the vehicular density observed during the traffic survey conducted on the main roads around the proposed site, the existing infrastructure is capable of taking up additional traffic loads. Also the project is to be executed phase wise; the increase in traffic will be easily handled by the existing as well as the future improvements in the transportation infrastructure. Hence there will not be any impact on the traffic pattern and density IMPACTS ON SOCIO ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT The proposed software development complex will be open to members of all communities and castes. The above measure will encourage mixing of different caste people for their respective festivals and occasions. This will improve the social welfare and brotherhood among the various communities and castes. The state of the art facilities proposed in the development is planned to cater the needs of the people working in the proposed development which would be able to provide healthy working atmosphere. Hence it is obvious to assume that the activities of the proposed development will produce some positive impacts in the socio-economic status of the area Public Health and Safety As the project is only a construction of software development complex and all the construction activities are confined to the project site, no health related impact would be envisaged within the project area. The people engaged in the construction activities will be directly exposed to dust generation, which is likely to cause health related impact. Appropriate mitigation measures like spraying of water will be adopted to minimize dust emission in the construction site. Laborers will be provided with suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required under the health and safety norms. Regular health checkups will be organized Positive Impact The project will facilitate maximum participation of the local work force for construction process; this will benefit the local economy, improvement in economic activity and enhancement in earning opportunities for the local population. The operation of the project and other allied facilities will improve the employment opportunities. The project will provide direct and indirect employment. The employment will have positive impact on the local economy thereby increasing the quality of life. The proposed rainwater recharge facility will augment the ground water level in the project area. 76

77 6.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT Environmental impact checklists combine the assessment of individual impacts with a checklist of probable impacts for a project. The following five environmental components have been considered for the purpose of assessment and evaluation of the environmental impact due to the proposed complex. Air Environment Noise Environment Water Environment Land Environment Socio Economic Environment 6.1 AIR ENVIRONMENT Land development activities may lead to the generation of dust. Foundation work would require pile driving using heavy machinery, which may produce gaseous pollutants. Construction work will involve excavation and concreting etc. All these activities may give rise to dust, resulting in air pollution. The structural work will involve steelwork, concrete work, masonry work etc. and construction equipment like concrete mixers, hoists, and welding sets etc. will be used. These activities at times produce air contaminants. The dust generated during the activities will be of low magnitude and will be settable in nature. The quantum of any gaseous pollution is insignificant. The impact due to such emissions is expected to be confined within the close vicinity of the proposed construction site. The impact will, however, be marginal, reversible and short term. During the operation of the complex no significant sources of gaseous pollution are expected. Only at the time of power cut, DG sets will be operated with required height of stack for adequate dispersion of gaseous pollutants as per the guidelines of the environmental standards. Air Environment: In general, the proposed Complex will have a short term, marginal reversible and localized impact on air quality in the neighborhood during the construction phase and insignificant impact during operational phase. 6.2 NOISE ENVIRONMENT During the construction phase, different types of plant and machinery will be deployed resulting at times an increase in noise levels at the construction site. Proper planning of these operations will be made during this period so that the disturbances will be minimized due to such noise generation. Most of the construction work would be undertaken only between 8 am to 6 pm. Functioning of the proposed complex is not expected to create any noise pollution. DG sets, compressor, pumps will be placed inside the covered room to avoid any noise problem. Noise Environment: In general, the overall impact on noise level due to the proposed Complex will be almost insignificant. 6.3 WATER ENVIRONMENT Ground Water Hydrology Ground water will be used during the construction phase activities (only after permission) as well as for meeting the daily demand of the Complex during the operational phase. However, maximum care will be taken to avoid any misuse of ground water. 77

78 Ground Water Environment: As such, the proposed complex will have a marginal but no long term impact on the ground water hydrology. Water Use Water requirements during construction phase will be mainly met through tankers. The requirements during operation will be met through both municipal supply and ground water. Water Use: In general, the proposed Complex is not likely to have any significant longterm impact on the water use scenario of the region during construction & operational phases. 6.4 LAND ENVIRONMENT The proposed project will not alter the land use pattern of the proposed site. The site, after completion of its development, would consist of build up structure neatly landscaped, leading to a pleasant outlook. Plantation of trees in the open spaces would add a different dimension to the existing landscape of open vacant lands and would provide a visual comfort. Land Environment: As such, there will be an insignificant impact on the land use during the construction period while a beneficial impact is expected in the operational of the proposed project. Ecology The impact of construction activities will be primarily confined to the project site. The site doesn t involve any forestland. Thus, the site development work will not lead to any significant loss of any important taxonomy. Removal of topsoil often leads to soil erosion. Deposition of fugitive dust on leaves of nearby vegetation may lead to temporary reduction of photosynthesis. Such impacts will, however, be confined mostly to the initial periods of the construction phase. The entire complex would be extensively landscaped with a variety of taxa. No wild life sanctuary is involved in the site and vicinity. Therefore, there is no likely tangible impact from noise and emissions during construction on the animals and birds in the area. Ecological Environment: No impact on terrestrial and aquatic ecology is expected due to the proposed complex. 6.5 SOCIO ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT A sizeable workforce comprising skilled, semi skilled and unskilled labours will be needed at the peak period of construction phase. Significant number of semi skilled and unskilled labourers will be recruited from the nearby areas. This will create some employment opportunities in the area. Since most of the sizeable labour force will be drawn from neighborhood, no new environmental problem is anticipated. Temporary accommodation in the form of workers camp will be constructed for a few special categories of migrant skilled and semi skilled workers within the project site. In such eventuality, certain measurers will be taken. The camp will be provided with the adequate sanitation facilities. Therefore, it will not cause any significant social stress, though some degradation in the immediate physical environment would be unavoidable. Most of the construction work is labour intensive. As contractors will do most of the job, it will be ensured that the contractor workers are provided with proper facilities including proper sanitation and safe drinking water supply. There is no permanent resident on the project site and as such, the project would not result in any direct evictions. The construction materials will be procured local market and also though various sources. Thus, there is a possibly of local employment generation, though temporary. 78

79 Construction activities will provide direct and indirect job opportunities to a large number of people, thus having a beneficial impact on local economy. The project is expected to have a marginal but significant positive impact on local economic scenario. Socio Economic Environment: In general, the proposed Complex will have a positive impact on the socioeconomic environment. It will have a long-term positive impact on the socioeconomic environment and it will increase the over all value of the surrounding area. 79

80 7.0 ANALYSIS OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES This section analyses the project alternatives in terms of site, technology scale and waste management options. 7.1 RELOCATION OPTION Relocation option to a different site might be an option available for the proposed project. At present the developer does not have an alternative site. This means that the developer has to look for the land that is of the same size or bigger. Looking for the land to accommodate the scale and size of the project and completing official transaction on it may take up to more than five years although there is no guarantee that the land would be available. The developer will spend another two to three years on design and approvals since design and planning has to be according to site conditions. Project design and planning before the stage of implementation will cost the developer millions shillings. Whatever has been done and paid to date will be counted as a loss to the developer. Assuming the project will be given a positive response by the relevant authorities including CMDA, CoC among others, this project would have been delayed for about two (2) years period before implementation. This is a delay that our economy can t afford. This would also lead to a situation like No Project Alternative option. The other consequence of this is that it would be a discouragement for international/private/local investors especially in the housing sector that has been shunned by many public and private investors already aggravating our critical housing shortages. In consideration of the above concerns and assessment of the current proposed site, relocation of the project is not a viable option. 7.2 ZERO OR NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE The No Project option in respect to the proposed project implies that the status quo is maintained. This option is the most suitable alternative from an extreme environmental perspective as it ensures non-interference with the existing conditions. This option will however, involve several losses both to the developer and the community as a whole. The developer will continue to land rates for the plot while the property remains idle. The No Project Option is the least preferred from the socio-economic and partly environmental perspective due to the following factors: The economic status of the local people would remain unchanged. Reduced interaction both at local, national and international levels. No employment opportunities will be created for thousands of people who will work in the housing project area. Increased urban poverty. No housing provided to alleviate a critical shortage. Discouragement for investors to produce this level of modern housing. Development of infrastructural facilities such as roads, electrical etc. will not be undertaken. From the analysis above, it becomes apparent that the No Project alternative is no alternative to the local people and the government of tamil nadu. 7.3 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVE CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND TECHNOLOGY The proposed project will be constructed using modern, locally and internationally accepted materials to achieve public health, safety, security and environmental aesthetic requirements. Equipment that saves energy and water will be given first priority without compromising on cost or availability factors. The concrete pillars and walls will be made using locally sourced stones, cement, sand, steel metal bars and fittings that meet the Indian Bureau of Standards requirements. 80

81 The alternative technologies available include the conventional brick and mortar style, prefabricated concrete panels, or even temporarily structures. Due to cost and durability, the brick and mortar style is the most popular more so in India. The scale and extent of the project is by design, the plot size and funds available. The various technologies available include, concrete frame construction, timber construction, prefabricated space frame construction, steel frame and aluminium frame. The technology to be adopted will be the most economical and one sensitive to the environment. Beautiful and durable re-enforced concrete roofs with tile profile will be used because they are good in heat insulation as compared to the iron sheet roofs, and afford more security. This will ensure that the rainwater harvested will be used in the house and garden. Heavy use of timber during construction is discouraged because of destruction of forests. The exotic species would be preferred to indigenous species in the construction where need will arise. However, this housing methods and technologies to be used will require very little timber. 7.4 DOMESTIC WASTE WATER MANAGEMENT ALTERNATIVES Five locally available technologies are discussed below: Alternative one: Waste water treatment plant This involves the construction of a plant that will enable the recycling of the waste water from the project activities to reusable standards and utilised within the site in activities such as irrigating the flower gardens and flashing of the toilets. It is usually expensive to construct and maintain, but it is the most reliable, efficient and cost effective in the long term. This is the most preferred option for such project because of its benefits Alternative two: Use of stabilization ponds/lagoons This refers to the use of a series of ponds/lagoons that allow several biological processes to take place, before the water is released back to the river. The lagoons can be used for aquaculture purposes and irrigation. However, they occupy a lot of space but are less costly. No chemicals are used/heavy metals sink and decomposition processes take place. They are usually a nuisance to the public because of smell from the lagoons/ponds. This option is not preferable in the area because the required space is not only available, and the local community are not likely to accept the option Alternative Three: Use of Constructed/Artificial wetland This is one of the powerful tools/methods used in raising the quality of life and health standards of local communities in developing countries. Constructed wetland plants act as filters for toxins. The advantages of the system are the simple technology, low capital and maintenance costs required. However, they require space and a longer time to function. Long term studies on plant species on the site will also be required to avoid weed biological behavioral problems. Hence it is not the best alternative for this kind of project Alternative Four: Use of septic tanks This involves the construction of underground concrete-made tanks to store the sludge with soak pits. It is expensive to construct and regular empting in large discharge points like the large scale residential housing project of which the project shall be falling in. However, the proponent needs to consider this option as a substitute to the existing sewer system Alternative Five: Connection to the existing sewer system Connection to the available large main sewer line will solve the wastewater management issue at a very minimal cost and in an environmental efficient manner. 81

82 In conclusion, the recommended course of action for this site would be establishment of STP of desired technology and utilization of treated water for flushing and gardening purposes. Excess treated water shall be disposed to the existing sewer to help in the management of all the waste water generated on site as this will adequately protect the environment from possible pollution. 7.5 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT ALTERNATIVES A lot of solid wastes will be generated from the proposed project especially during its operations due to the high number of residents expected to be staying in the homes once complete. An integrated solid waste management system is recommendable. First, the proponent will give priority to Waste Reduction at Source of the materials. This option will demand a solid waste management awareness programme in the management and the residents. Secondly, Recycling, Reuse and composting of the waste using OWC will be the second alternative in priority. This will call for a source separation programme to be put in place. The recyclables will be sold to waste buyers within Chennai city. The third priority in the hierarchy of options is combustion of the wastes that are not recyclable. Finally, establishment of OWC will be the last option for the proponent to consider. 82

83 8.0 ADDITIONAL STUDIES 8.1 RISK ASSESSMENT, DISASTER MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY MEASURES A well - defined Risk Management Plan is made as follows: STEP 1: Define the Projects/Tasks Site Clearing Excavation Raft RCC slab Block work / plastering External plastering Joinery - frame fixing Flooring Interior works Windows fixing Flooring False ceiling Painting Services I.Electrical II.Plumbing III.Fire fighting Equipments I.Elevator II.STP /WTP III.Hard and landscape STEP 2: Identify the Hazards a) Are you using (Tick boxes) [ ] plant/equipment [ ] portable electrical equipment [ x ] pressure vessels/boilers [ x ] hazardous substances [ ] scaffolding [ ] ladders [ ] lifts/hoists/cranes/dogging/rigging/load shifting machinery b) Does the project/task involve (Tick boxes) [ ] using tools/equipment with moving part(s) [ ] using tools/equipment that vibrate [ x ] working with x-rays,or lasers [ ] electrical wiring [ x ] asbestos removal [ ] welding [ x ] hazardous waste [ ] excavation / trenches (>1.5m) [ ] working around electrical installations [ ] working near traffic [ ] working at a height (>3m) [ ] working in isolation [ ] working in a confined space [ ] manual handling [ ] repetitive or awkward movements [ x ] lifting or moving awkward or heavy objects c) Is there (Tick boxes) [ ] noise [ ] dust/fumes/vapours/gases [ x ] extreme temperatures [ x ] risk of fire/explosion [ ] slippery surfaces/trip hazards [ x ] poor ventilation/air quality [ x ] a poorly designed work area for the project/task 83

84 STEP 3: Assess the Risk During Construction Phase: Activities Air Water Noise Soil Occupational Pollution Pollution Pollution Pollution Hazard A. Material Handling: Cement +M - - +M +M Steel M Sand Stone L Wood Glass H Hardware Colour - +H - +H - B. Construction Machinery Rotary Driller +L - +H - +H Mixers +M - +M +L +M Excavator +L - +L - +H Material Lift - - +L - +H Risk Factor: + : Positive - : Negative L : Low M : Medium H : High For any projects/tasks that present a high or extreme risk, a Safe Work Method Statement must be completed. STEP 4: Control the Risk: Note how you will control the risk following the priorities listed to the right. This may include controls like redesigning the workplace, using guards or barriers, ventilation, using lifting equipment or personal safety equipment. Eliminate the Hazard Keep the Hazard and People Apart Change the Work Methods Use Personal Protection Note any specific risk assessments required for high-risk hazards. Check whether any hazards noted in step 2 require further assessment or action. [ x ] hazardous substance risk assessment [ ] test and tag electrical equipment [ ] confined spaces risk assessment [ ] sound level test a) Note Permits/Licenses/Registration required [x ] Demolition work [ ] Electrical wiring [ x ] Pressure vessels [ x ] Friable asbestos removal [ x ] Ionizing radiation sources [ ] registers for chemicals, Personal protective Equipment, training, ladders, lifting gear 84

85 b) Note certificates of competency/licenses for operators [ ] Scaffolding [ ] Pesticide application [ ] Rigging [ ] Crane operation [ ] Load shifting machinery operation [ ] Hoist operation c) Note emergency systems required [ ] first aid kit [ ] extended first aid kit [ ] emergency stop button [ ] additional emergency procedures [ ] Fire control [ ] remote communication mechanism [ x ] others STEP 5: Actions Required to Control the Risk A. During construction to reduce pollution: Manual water sprinkling during dust excavation Using RMC to reduce air pollution Dust cover for Trucks New Construction Machinery Equipment will work intermittently Rotary drillers instead of acoustic drillers Vehicular trips will not be at peak traffic hour Ear Plugs to workers No noise polluting work in night shifts B.Safety & Hygienic Measures: Adequate drinking water, toilet and bathing facilities There will be free medical camps and first aid rooms for workers Safety equipments like helmets, safety shoes etc. to personnel and visitors Personnel protective equipments like leather gloves, goggles and ear muffs when required Personnel working on heights will wear safety equipments and will not work alone To prevent any accidents, the entire area under construction will be cordoned off with tin sheets and safety tape is run outside this fence Regular pest control will be done Adequate fire fighting equipments will be provided Operational Phase: Risks in the complex will be due to natural calamities like earthquake, flooding and others such as fire and accidental hazards. All precautions will be taken to control these risks and a well planned Disaster Management Plan is prepared as shown in the Figure 9.1. Figure 9.1 Flow Chart Showing Disaster Management Plan Disaster Management Plan Fire Fighting Avoid Water Logging Earthquake Resistance Fire fighting system shall be provided as per regulations of Chief Fire Officer Rain water harvesting. Storm water will be drained to storm water drains capable of taking the runoff. The structural design shall be as per is certified as per IS code 875 and IS for Seismic Zone 3 of Chennai 85

86 8.2 NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION Realizing the need for an eco friendly environment has proposed to do the following natural resource conservation techniques. To minimize water demand the project proposal will have Water balance chart, sewage treatment plant, plan for treated water usage, dual pipe line rain water harvesting arrangements for saving water. 86

87 9.0 PROJECT BENEFITS & IMPACTS The project site is located in the development zone. The housing demand of huge number of people will out from the proposed project. Due to huge residential development it will act as a pioneer for other development. 9.1 POSITIVE IMPACTS Proposed residential complex will help channelize and further expand the residential growth not only of the city but of the country as whole. Currently the country s housing demand by far outstrips the housing supply. This has led to the mushrooming of slums in most urban dwellings culminating in low standards of living and health risk concerns. One of the positive aspects of project is that it will increase number of residential houses available to residents. By building the residential complex the design has incorporated an optimal use of the available land. Land is a scarce resource in Chennai city and through construction of the proposed well planned complex shall ensure optimal use of land. After lot of study of potential locations in Chennai city it was found that this locality would be a perfect counter magnet for established residential complex in the city. As it enjoys the advantage of a centralized location and a high level of accessibility. Employment during the construction as well as during the operational phase is the biggest positive side of the project. The project will provide positive impact on the economic development of the region in terms of employment opportunities. The project is designed such that there will be provision of a designated spot for the dumping of garbage which is well protected from rain and animals. This wastes will thus be collected from the site in bulk and as one unit such that the careless disposal and hence proliferation of wastes within the surrounding areas will be curbed. With the presence of an security and watch and ward within the proposed project site, there will be general improved security on and around the site. 9.2 NEGATIVE IMPACTS The proposed project will lead to increased pressure on existing infrastructure such as roads, sewer lines etc due to the increased number of people who will be using these facilities which will directly translate into increased in volume of the relevant parameter. Poor solid waste management could lead to the washing down of these wastes into the nearby lake. Poor waste management may also lead to the blocking of drains, which in turn can lead to flooding and unsanitary conditions within the proposed estate. Blocked drains produce bad odour hence are environmentally unfriendly. The project management proposes to have controlled solid management to avoid this from occurring. If the project does not have well designed storm water drains, the rain water may end up stagnating and hence creating conducive breeding areas for mosquitoes and other water based vectors which may lead to human diseases like malaria. Poor solid waste management practices may also lead breeding grounds for pests such as rats and other scavenging animals. The proponent will put in place efficient storm water and waste management systems that will prevent the accumulation of rain water and uncontrolled waste, as well as an efficient collection system and off-site disposal. In completion of construction of the project shall require large amount of electricity due to the number of the housing units that have been proposed and the activities that will take place once the project is complete. Since electric energy in Chennai is generated mainly through natural resources, namely water and geothermal resources, increased use of electricity have adverse impacts on these natural resources base and their sustainability. A lot of domestic waste such as waste from foodstuffs, empty plastic containers, cartons, etc will be generated during the operational phase of the project. Once the proposed apartments are 87

88 complete and operational, the residents will generate large amounts of solid waste on a daily basis whose composition will be organic and inorganic waste. Cultural conflicts may occur as a result of various communities with different cultures living in the apartments. For instance, in other communities their culture allows them to visit each other freely while other cultures prohibit visitation. 88

89 10.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 10.1 GENERAL This section outlines the key environmental management and safeguards that will be initiated by the project proponent to manage the project s key environmental concerns. Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is the mechanism to ensure that environmental considerations are integrated into the project survey and design, contract documents and project supervision and monitoring. These are tools for mitigating or offsetting the potential adverse environmental impacts resulting from various activities of the project. The environmental management plan (EMP) mainly consists of integrating potential impacts (positive or negative), environmental mitigation measures, implementation schedule, and monitoring plans. The potential environmental impacts and proposed management associated with each stage of the project development are described here. The primary objective of this proposed environmental management and monitoring programme is to control environmental impacts to levels within acceptable standards, and to minimise possible impact on the community and the workforce of foreseeable risks during the construction and subsequent operation phases of the project. Also, it is very important to highlight here that such environmental mitigation measures shall be used in conjunction with good management practices and good engineering design, construction and operation practices. The EMP will be a working document that personnel on site need to both understand and undertake environmental management. It will be ensured personnel are in a position to adequately manage the environmental concerns of the site and effectively monitor for and mitigate impacts Environment Management Systems The following components will be part of the EMS: Environmental Policy Objectives & Targets Structure and Responsibility Emergency Planning Environmental Monitoring Program Operation of and Maintenance of Environmental Management Facilities like STP, Rain water harvesting, Solar Systems, landscape development, Solid waste management system Non-conformance & Corrective and Preventive Action Short term and long term budgetary provisions for the EMP 10.2 AIR POLLUTION CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT Construction Phase The impact on air quality during construction phase of the project will be due to the air emissions like SPM, CO, NOx and SO2 due to material handling, vehicular movements and other site activities. The particulate matter will be reduced by frequent sprinkling of water on the road surfaces and on other areas where dust arises due to material handling. Necessary steps would be taken to maintain all the equipments and vehicles used in the construction and transportation of materials in proper condition so as to reduce the emissions and thereby prevent pollution. Low Sulphur diesel will be used for the construction equipments. Effective internal traffic management and planning measures need to be adopted for multiple entry and exit points to reduce traffic congestions at site. Awareness need to be created towards prevention of idle running of vehicles so that emission is avoided. The emissions from the DG sets used during construction will be let out through the stacks installed with adequate heights. This will avoid the deposition of the particulate matters and other pollutants by facilitating the dispersion of pollutants into the atmosphere. The stacking of all the construction materials will be covered and confined within the proposed project site to avoid air emissions. 89

90 Operation Phase Air emissions are observed during the operation phase of the project. The air emissions will be reduced by ensuring smoother flow of traffic within the premises by better traffic management plans. It is proposed to have trees all through the boundaries of the site and along the either side of the internal roads. This will reduce the particulate matters from being transported to the nearby areas. The air emissions from the Diesel Generators will be controlled by using low sulphur content high speed diesels, periodic maintenance of DG sets as per the defined schedule of manufacturer and by providing adequate stack heights as prescribed by CPCB. The stack height for the DG sets are calculated based on the CPCB guidelines as shown below: S.No. DG Capacity Numbers Residential Block KVA KVA 1 Shopping Mall Block KVA 12 School Block KVA KVA 1 Club House Block KVA 1 Convention Centre Block KVA 4 MLCP Block KVA KVA KVA KVA Air Pollution Control (APC) Measures The main source of air emissions from the proposed residential development is the Generator Sets. To control the air emissions from D.G sets, adequate stack height is provided to release the exhaust flue gases into the atmosphere at a height at which efficient dispersion takes place. The stack is taken up to a height of about 14 m from the ground level. Since the DG sets are operated only during power failure, the emission is not continuous and hence the impact due to these emissions is insignificant. The stack height for the DG sets are calculated based on the CPCB guidelines as shown below: Residential Block: Stack Height Design Calculation for 500 KVA (3 Nos.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (500) 0.5 = = = 96 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level 90

91 h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 96 m and the same height will be provided. Stack Height Design Calculation for 500 KVA (2 Nos.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (500) 0.5 = = = 187 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 187 m and the same height will be provided. Stack Height Design Calculation for 250 KVA (1 Nos.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (250) 0.5 = = = 95 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 95 m and the same height will be provided. Shopping Complex Block: Stack Height Design Calculation for 1500 KVA (12 Nos.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (1500) 0.5 = = = 30 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 30 m and the same height will be provided. 91

92 School Block: Stack Height Design Calculation for 380 KVA (1 No.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (380) 0.5 = = = 22 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 22 m and the same height will be provided. Stack Height Design Calculation for 100 KVA (1 No.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (100) 0.5 = = 19.7 = 22 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 22 m and the same height will be provided. Club House Block: Stack Height Design Calculation for 200 KVA (1 No.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (200) 0.5 = = = 21 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 21m and the same height will be provided. 92

93 Convention Centre Block: Stack Height Design Calculation for 1500 KVA (4 Nos.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (1500) 0.5 = = = 48 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 48 m and the same height will be provided. MLCP Block: Stack Height Design Calculation for 1250 KVA (3 Nos.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (1250) 0.5 = = = 38 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 38 and the same height will be provided. Stack Height Design Calculation for 1500 KVA (4 Nos.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (1500) 0.5 = = = 39 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 39 and the same height will be provided. Stack Height Design Calculation for 500 KVA (1 No.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (500) 0.5 =

94 = = 36 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 36 and the same height will be provided. Stack Height Design Calculation for 100 KVA (1 No.) Generator Set H = h + (0.2) (kva) 0.5 = (100) 0.5 = = 32.8 = 33 m (say) Where, H = Total height of stack in meters from ground level h = height of the building in meters The stack height required as per CPCB norms is 33 and the same height will be provided. Power generator use natural gas as fuel which is termed as clean fuel and hence the impact due to the emissions from generator will be negligible. These generators employ a Combined Cooling Heating and Power (CCHP) technology, which is an integration of a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) technology and Absorption Refrigeration. The integrated absorption refrigeration is designed to harvest waste heat from the exhaust gases of the power generation activity and recover it for cooling. This facility eliminates the need for electricity for cooling purpose and therefore reduces the total energy consumption significantly and hence improves the energy production per unit of fuel in the campus. To control the air emissions from these gas based power generators, adequate stack height is provided to release the exhaust flue gases into the atmosphere at a height with efficient dispersion NOISE CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT Construction Phase The noise generated from the construction equipments will be reduced through proper maintenance of all the equipments which are involved in construction activities, confining the construction activities only during the day time and providing barricades all around the project area. The adverse impacts of noise especially on workers will be reduced by providing ear muffs to the workers in high noise zones. Noise control systems such as equipment foundation pads, dampeners, silencers and acoustic enclosures will be used for individual units as per the requirement to minimize the noise & vibration Operation Phase The increase in the ambient noise levels due to the vehicle transportation will be controlled by the development of the green cover all along the internal roads and by implementing better traffic management plans inside the site premises. The better traffic management plans will significantly reduce the noise generated due to the congestion caused by the movement of vehicles. Establishment of Internal traffic management measures to avoid unnecessary vehicle movement in the service areas. Providing adequate setback/buffer areas along the access roads to reduce the effect of noise & vibration to the surroundings. The generator noise is controlled by providing acoustic enclosures. Proper air ventilation system is designed to allow the maximum aspiration and cooling airflow 94

95 required so that the engines do not overheat. Axial flow fan of required size & numbers provided for proper air ventilation. Acoustic louvers, splitter & insulated ducts are provided to suppress the noise where required SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT Construction Phase Separate raw material handling yard will be demarcated. This will prevent the contamination of the soil due to the spillage of the construction materials. Cement will be separately stored under cover in bales. The raw material handling yard will be located within the project site and separated by enclosures/barricades. This will keep the working area clean and reduce the soil contamination Operation Phase The estimation of solid waste generation and its treatment and disposal methods are separately categorized and the details are furnished below; Residential, Club House & School Block: S.No Project Components Total Apartments Occupancy load Per Capita generation Total Bio Degradable Waste generation Kg/day Total Non Bio Degradable Waste generation Kg/day Total solid Waste generation Kg/day Residential Block 1. Residents Maintenance & Visitors population (10% of Resident population) 3. Club House (5% of Resident population) Office Block 4. Office Block Maintenance Staff STP Bio Sludge Mode of Treatment and disposal: Total 2098 Kg/day 1348 Kg/day 3446 Kg/day Sl.No Description Quantity (Tons/day) Mode of Treatment/disposal 1 Biodegradable waste Disposed through organic waste converter and manure used for green belt development. 2 Non biodegradable waste 1.34 Sent to authorized recyclers. 3 STP sludge 76 kgs Dried and used as manure for green belt development 95

96 Hotel and Convention Centre: S.No Project Components Total Apartments Occupancy load Per Capita generation Total Bio Degradable Waste generation Kg/day Total Non Bio Degradable Waste generation Kg/day Total solid Waste generation Kg/day Hotel and Convention Centre 1 Guest rooms Staff Restaurant and Food Court Marriage and Mini Hall Cineplex Retail shops Maintenance & Visitors population (10 % of total population of Restaurant & food court, Marriage & mini hall, Cineplex, retail shop) 8 STP Sludge Total Waste Generation in Kg/day Mode of Treatment and disposal: Sl.No Description Quantity (Tons/day) Mode of Treatment/disposal 1 Biodegradable waste Disposed through organic waste converter and manure used for green belt development. 2 Non biodegradable waste Sent to authorized recyclers. 3 STP sludge 31 Kgs Dried and used as manure for green belt development Office & Shopping Center Block: S.No Project Components Total Apartments Occupancy load Per Capita generation Total Bio Degradable Waste generation Kg/day Total Non Bio Degradable Waste generation Kg/day Total solid Waste generation Kg/day Office Block 1 Office Block Maintenance Staff

97 Shopping Centre 3 Shopping Maintenance & Visitors population (10% of total commercial population) 5 STP Sludge Total Waste Generation in Kg/day Kg/d 1243 Kg/d 3140 Kg/d Mode of Treatment and disposal: Sl.No Description Quantity (Tons/day) Mode of Treatment/disposal 1 Biodegradable waste Disposed through organic waste converter and manure used for green belt development. 2 Non biodegradable waste Sent to authorized recyclers. 3 STP sludge 32 Kgs Dried and used as manure for green belt development Overall Summary: S.No Project Componen ts Total Apartments Occupan cy load Per Capita generatio n Total Bio Degradabl e Waste generation Total Non Bio Degradabl e Waste generation Total solid Waste generatio n Kg/day Kg/day Kg/day 1 Residents Maintenance & Visitors population (10% of Resident population) 3 Club House (5% of Resident population) Office Block 4 Office Block Maintenance Staff School and Club house 6 Students Teaching Staff Non Teaching Staff Maintenance & Visitors population (10% of School population) Shopping Centre 10 Shopping

98 11 Maintenance & Visitors population (10% of total commercial population) Hotel and Convention Centre 11 Guest rooms Staff Restaurant and Food Court Marriage and Mini Hall Cineplex Retail shops Maintenance & Visitors population (10 % of total population of Restaurant & food court, Marriage & mini hall, Cineplex, retail shop) 18 STP Sludge Total Waste Generation in Kg/day 5300 Kg/d 3441 Kg/d 8741 Kg/d Component STP Sludge Waste Type Bio-degradable Solid Waste Total Sewage Generation 1377 STP Sludge Calculation 0.1 m 3 /KLD, So, 0.1 X 1377 KLD Sludge Waste Generation (Kgs/day) 138 Per capita waste generation for residential are 0.6 kg/ capita/ day and for other working population it is 0.2 kg/capita/day. Source: Central Public Health and Environmental Engineering Organization (CPHEEO) Sl.No Description Quantity (Tons/day) Mode of Treatment/disposal 1 Biodegradable waste Disposed through organic waste converter and manure used for green belt development. 2 Non biodegradable waste Sent to authorized recyclers. 3 STP sludge 138 kgs Dried and used as manure for green belt development During the operation phase the used oil from the DG sets will be collected in separate drums and handed over to the authorized recyclers by TNPCB. Hazardous Waste: During the operation phase the used oil, DG filters, oil mixed cotton waste and oil containers from the DG sets will be collected in separate place. 98

99 Non- Hazardous Waste: It is estimated that the municipal solid wastes will be generated in the following passion: Biodegradable wastes Non-biodegradable wastes : 5300 Kg/day : 3441Kg/day In the building complex, Wastes generated from the households will be segregated into Bio degradable waste and non- bio degradable waste in the source itself (by the occupants) in separate bins. The wastes from such bins are collected separately on daily basis and taken to a separate centralized collection facility by the agency dealing in collection and disposal of garbage. Appropriate site will be identified for keeping the biodegradable and Non biodegradable waste. All the collection bins shall be properly maintained and cleared on regular basis. The Bio degradable wastes will be treated using OWC, and non-bio degradable recyclable waste will be handed over to authorized recyclers. Organic Converter Management: The facility management services would transfer the biodegradable waste to be processed in an organic waste convertor located at the ground floor. Space Provision for Organic waste convertor is 123 sq mt. which includes the space required for treatment, curing and storage of manure generated from the organic waste. Biodegradable waste will be converted into manure which will be used for gardening and the excess shall be sold /handover to outside parties or gardens. Proponents shall be responsible for the operation and maintenance for 3 years after convergence of property to the members. The Operation and maintenance of OWC shall be given on contract basis to outside agencies preferably to those from where the OWC machine is Horticulture wastes leaves, grass and vegetative residues shall be collected at the secured location such that it will not hinder daily activity schedule or washed away by the surface run-off causing choking of drains, etc. and will be separately treated and disposed off along with biodegradable waste. The sludge generation from the STP will be dewatered and treated in OWC along with the other wastes. 99