ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF SEWAGE PUMPING STATION & SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT EXECUTIVE SUMMARY NAGERCOIL MUNICIPALITY, KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT TWAD BOARD,SEWERAGE DIVISION,NAGERCOIL Prepared by : SEPTEMBER 2015
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION Nagarcoil Municipality is planning to install 17.66 MLD capacity common Sewage Treatment Plant in Valampurivilai, Nagercoil Village, Agastheeswaram Taluk of Kannyakumari District along with a Sewage pumping station at Vadiveeswaram, Nagercoil Village through Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board (TWAD Board). The EIA report is being prepared for getting environmental clearance for the proposed main pumping station and common STP at Nagercoil Village, Agastheeswaram Taluk of Kannyakumari District. Nagercoil Town is a special grade Municipality in Kanyakumari District of Tamil Nadu State. It lies at a latitude of 8 10 N. and Longitude of 77 25 E. It is situated at 19Km from Kanyakumari Town in NH-47. This Municipality is the head quarters of Kanyakumari District. The famous Nagaraja temple is located in this town. Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board (TWAD Board) is a statutory body formed by Government of Tamil Nadu on 14.4.1971. It is responsible for the implementation of providing Water Supply and Sewerage facilities to the public of the entire state of Tamilnadu except Chennai Metropolitan area. Its main objective is Supply of Safe and potable water to the public and it is ensured by the quality through 83 laboratory services throughout the state. 1.1 Project Proposal Nagercoil municipality is divided into 9 zones based on the topography of the area & in Phase I, it is proposed to implement sewage scheme to the zone II which is the core area of the Municipality. The balance zones will be covered in the second phase of the UGSS. For the proposed scheme a pumping station is located at Vadiveeswaram to collect the sewage. From this Pumping station, sewage will be pumped to the treatment plant at Valampurivilai which is about 2.48 km away from this pumping station. The total sewage collected is proposed to be treated in the Sewage Treatment Plant of capacity 17.66 MLD with EASP technology. The treated effluent will be pumped to the Thengampudur ayacuts for irrigation of 833 acres. 1
The Proposal for Phase I has been administratively approved vide G.O. Ms. No. 37/MAWS/DT 30.3.2012 for Rs. 76.04- Crores. 1.1.1 Land Requirement The land-use breakup details are given in Table - 1.1. TABLE - 1.1: LANDUSE BREAK-UP S.No Area (Acres) Area (Acres) 1 Plant and buildings 2.37 2 Road Area 0.50 3 Green belt Area 1.65 4 Vacant Area 1.48 Total 6.00 1.1.2 Water Requirement The requirement of water for pumping station is 2 KLD and the requirement of water for STP is 5 KLD. The Nagercoil Municipality will supply the water as per requirement by providing water connection. The sewage generated will be pumped into raw sewage receiving chamber of STP. 1.1.3 Manpower Requirement The manpower requirement of the proposed project is 128 Nos. 1.1.4 Power and Fuel Requirement The power Requirement for the proposed STP and pumping station is 280 KW and 528 KW, which will be sourced from Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO). One standby 1000 KVA, 3 phase 415 V water cooled Diesel Genset is proposed. Provision of separate EB feeder main is also available. 2.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 2.1 Location of the Project The proposed STP site is located at Valampurivilai, Nagercoil Village,. Geographically, it is situated at 2
latitude 08 09 48.0 N, longitude 77 26 10.1 E and is located at 40 m above the MSL. The proposed sewage pumping station is located at Vadiveeswaram, Nagercoil Village,. Geographically, it is situated at latitude 08 10 36.95 N, longitude 77 26 27.99 E and is located at 11 m above the MSL. The details of environmental setting are given in Table 1.2. The topographical feature of the study area within 10-km radius is depicted in Figure -1.1. TABLE - 1.2 : Environmental Setting S. No. Particulars Details STP Pumping Station 1 Latitude 08 09 48.0 N 08 10 36.95 N 2 Longitude 77 26 10.1 E 77 26 27.99 E 3 Elevation above MSL 40 m 11 m 4 Land use Public & semi public use Educational use and now alienation proposal is sent to Govt. 5 Nearest Highway NH-47 connecting Salem Kochi - Kannyakumari 0.8 km, NE NH-47 connecting Salem Kochi - Kannyakumari 1.0 km, S 6 Nearest Railway station Nagercoil Railway Station 1.5 km, NE Nagercoil Railway Station 0.5 km, SE 7 Nearest Air Port Thiruvananthapuram Airport 66 Km, NW Thiruvananthapuram Airport 66 Km, NW 8 Nearest Habitation Kottar 0.2 km, SW Vadiveeswaram 0.1 km, W 9 Nearest Town Nagercoil 3.4 km, NW Nagercoil 3.4 km, WNW 10 Nearest Harbour Thoothukudi 107 km, NE Thoothukudi 105 km, NE 11 Reserve Forests Nil in 5 km radius 12 Nearest Water body Sabayar Kulam 1.4 km, E Pazhayar River 1.8 km, E Parakkai Lake 1.72 km, SE 13 Ecologically sensitive places Sabayar Kulam 1.5 km, SE Pazhayar River 0.8 km, NE Parakkai Lake 2.2 km, SE Nil in 5 km radius 14 Defense Installation Nil in 5 km radius 15 Historical places Nil in 5 km radius 16 Socio-economic factors No Resettlement and Rehabilitation issues are involved 3
FIGURE - 1.1 : STUDY AREA MAP 10 KM RADIUS 2.2 Baseline environmental monitoring The project site area forms the core zone and the 10 kms radius around core zone forms buffer zone. These two together forms study area and map showing the same is shown in Figure - 1.1. The environment consisting of geology, micro-meteorology, ambient air quality, water quality, soil quality and noise levels and field investigations of ecology in the study area generated from 20 th March 2015 to 20 th June 2015 representing pre monsoon season. Land use pattern and socio-economic profile of the study area is also presented. 4
2.3 Meteorology The predominant wind direction observed during the study period was West for 22.5% of the total time and followed by West South West [13.75%] of the total time. The mean maximum and mean minimum temperatures recorded at site during study period were 34 C and 23 C. The Relative Humidity was observed to range from 42-94% during the study period at the site. 2.4 Ambient Air Quality Ambient Air Quality Monitoring (AAQM) stations were set up at eight locations. The air samples were analyzed as per standard methods specified by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), IS: 5184 and American Public Health Association (APHA). The maximum value for PM10 was observed at project site as 69.4 µg/m 3 and minimum value for PM10 was observed at Melasurankudi as 41.2 µg/m 3. The maximum value for PM2.5 was observed at TWAD Office Nagercoil as 36.4-µg/m 3 and minimum value for PM2.5 was observed at Suseendram as 15.1 µg/m 3. The maximum value for SO2 was observed at TWAD Office Nagercoil as 10.3 µg/m 3 and minimum value for SO2 was observed at Melasurankudi as 5.1-µg/m3. The maximum value for NO2 was observed at project site as 20.9 µg/m 3 and minimum value for NO2 was observed at Ozuginasery as 10.4µg/m 3. The concentrations of VOCs in the study area were observed to be below the detectable level of 0.001 µg/m 3. The concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NO2 are observed to be well within the standards prescribed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for rural/residential zone. 2.5 Noise Level Survey The noise monitoring has been conducted for determination of ambient noise levels at ten locations in the study area. The daytime noise levels in all the rural and residential locations were observed to be in the range of 47.1 to 51.5 db(a). The night time noise level in all the rural and residential locations was observed to be in the range of 39.1 to 42.8 db(a). The day and night time noise level at all locations was observed to be within the prescribed limit of 55 db (A) and 45 db(a) respectively. 5
2.6 Water Quality The water quality monitoring has been conducted at 6 number of ground water locations and 3 surface water sources covering 10 km radial distance were examined for physico-chemical, heavy metals and bacteriological parameters. The water in general is not fit for drinking as most of the parameters are above the standards prescribed under IS 10500 drinking water standards. The analysis of ground water results indicate that the average ph ranges in between 6.55-7.85, TDS ranges from 49 mg/l - 1126 mg/l, Total Hardness ranges from 36 mg/l - 580 mg/l, Electrical Conductivity was observed to be ranging from 90-2015 μs/cm in ground water, Sodium ranges from 3.2-360 mg/l, Total Alkalinity ranges from 24-550 mg/l, chloride ranges from 10-293 mg/l and sulphate ranges from 2-65 mg/l, iron content ranges from BDL (<0.05) mg/l 0.08 mg/l, nitrate content ranges from BDL (<1) mg /l 108 mg/l was observed. The analysis of Surface water results indicate that the average ph ranges in between 6.83-7.19, TDS ranges from 139 mg/l - 257 mg/l, Total Hardness ranges from 76 mg/l - 112 mg/l, DO ranges from 12 mg/l 36 mg/l, nitrate content ranges from BDL (<1) mg /l 3.4 mg/l was observed. 2.7 Soil Characteristics Various locations within 10 km radius of the project site boundary were selected for soil sampling. It has been observed that the ph of the soil was ranging from 6.73 to 8.18. Texture of the soil sample is predominantly clay and sandy clay loam. The available nitrogen content ranges between 28.1 to 71.4 mg/kg in the locality. The value of phosphorus content varies between 46.5 to 118 mg/kg and the potassium content varies from 214 to 425 mg/kg which indicates that the soils have moderate quantities of potassium. 2.8 Flora and Fauna Studies Field survey conducted during the study period revealed that total number of 19 species have been recorded of which maximum of 14 species are accounted for trees followed by 6
shrubs-5. None of the reserve or natural forests falls within the 10 km radius around the project site area. No wild life sanctuaries or national parks or biosphere or hotspots in 10 km radius from the project site area. A total number of 13 species of fauna were identified during the survey under the study area. 2.9 Land Use Studies 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. 2.10 Demography and Socio-Economics The methodology adopted for the study is primarily based on the review of secondary data, such as District Primary Census Statistical Handbook of Kanyakumari District, 2011 for the parameters of demography, occupational structure of people within the study area of 10-km radius around the project site area. During the operation phase it will generate job opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers for operation and maintenance of STP. 3.0 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES The anticipated environmental impacts and mitigation measures are presented in Table-1.3. Table- 1.3: Anticipated Adverse Environmental Impacts & Mitigation Measures Discipline Potential Negative Impacts Constructional Impact Water Quality Wastewater generation from construction site, Probable Source Through sanitary toilets and day to day construction activity at construction site. Mitigative Measures The earthwork (cutting and filling) will be avoided during rainy season and will be completed during summer season. Stone pitching on the slopes and construction of concrete drains for storm water to minimize soil erosion. Remarks _ 7
Discipline Air Quality Noise Terrestrial Ecology Potential Negative Impacts Increase in dust and NOx concentration Increase in noise level Clearing Vegetation of Operational Impact Water Quality The project will not have any adverse impact on local ground water and/or surface water resources. Air Quality Increase in SO 2, NO X, CO and VOC s in ambient air. Solid waste Degrade the ground water quality. Ecology a. Terrestrial Impact on plant species b. Aquatic Impact on aquatic life of the Probable Source Leveling activity and Heavy vehicular movement Construction equipment Soil enabling activities Discharge from Phase I and domestic usages. Stack emissions. Sewage generated Emissions from stack Treated waste water Mitigative Measures Sprinkling of water in the construction area and unpaved roads. Proper maintenance of vehicles will be done. Equipment will be kept in good condition to keep the noise level within 85- db (A). Landscaping and extensive plantation will be done. Sewage generated will be treated in STP itself. Adequate stack height will be provided as per CPCB guidelines for the proper dispersion of pollutants. Motorable roads in the plant area will be paved to reduce dust emission. Plantation programs will be undertaken around the plant area. Dust suppression measures will be implemented raw material handling area. Solid waste will be dried and converted as manure. Emission will be controlled as well as dispersed through appropriate design. The domestic wastewater will be Remarks The impact will be low, as the main approach road will be tarred. Workers will be provided with necessary protective equipment e.g. ear plug, earmuffs. Plantation will be done in consultation with the local forest department. The treated effluent will be disposed in Thengampudur channel ayacut for irrigation purpose The resultant air quality will confirm to the stipulated standards. Solid waste will be utilized as manure in nearby agricultural fields. As ambient air quality will be within limits, no active injury to the vegetation is expected. As the sewage water will be treated 8
Discipline Potential Negative Impacts water bodies c. Noise Increase in noise levels in the plant area. Strain on existing amenities like housing, water sources and sanitation, medical and infrastructure facilities. Probable Source Equipment in STP. Influx of employees as well as contractor's employees/ labourers. Mitigative Measures provided with adequate treatment facilities Equipment will be designed to conform to noise levels prescribed by regulatory agencies. Provision of green belt and plantation would further help in attenuating noise. Most the workers requirement will be fulfilled by local people. No significant impact is envisaged Remarks properly no significant impact on aquatic life is expected. Employees working in high noise areas would be provided earplugs/ earmuffs as protective device. d. Demography and Socioeconomics Overall socioeconomic status of the area is expected to improve. 4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAMME Environmental monitoring will be conducted on regular basis to assess the pollution level in the surrounding area. A comprehensive monitoring program is suggested in Table 1.4. TABLE 1.4: Monitoring Schedule for Environmental Parameters S. No. Component Parameter Construction Phase No of Locations Frequency/ Duration 1 Ambient Air Quality PM 10, PM 2.5, SO 2, NO 2, CO Project site Once in a month & surrounds 2 Ambient Noise Quality 3 Ground water Quality Ambient noise level (Hourly Leq, L10, L50, L90) Parameters specified under IS:10500, 1993 4 Soil Quality Parameter for soil quality: ph, texture, electrical conductivity, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphate, potassium, sodium, calcium Project site Project site Project site Once in a month Once in 3 Months Once in 6 months 9
S. No. Component Parameter Operational Phase & Magnesium. No of Locations Frequency/ Duration 1 Ambient Air Quality PM 10, PM 2.5, SO 2, NO 2, CO 3 locations Once in a month 2 Fugitive Emission PM 10, PM 2.5, SO 2, NO 2, HC, S H 2 3 Stack Emission PM, SO 2, NO 2 & CO Monitoring 4 Source Noise Instantaneous Noise level in db(a) 5 Ambient Noise Quality 6 Ground water Quality Existing ambient noise level (Leq, L day & L night ) Parameters specified under IS:10500, 1993 7 Soil Quality Parameter for soil quality: ph, texture, electrical conductivity, organic matter, NPK, sodium, calcium & Magnesium. Near sewage tanks DG Set Pumps, Blowers, DG sets Boundaries Project site Green Belt area Once in a month Once in a month Once in a month Once in a month Once in 3 months Once in a year Other than this Sewer Network/Machineries will be monitored once in a year for maintenance purpose. 5.0 ADDITIONAL STUDIES The following additional studies/activities have been carried out for the proposed project on different aspects: Risk assessment studies have been carried out including preparation of Disaster Management Plan; 6.0 PROJECT BENEFITS The project uses Extended Aeration Activated Sludge Process (EASP), which is a space and power saving technology and it is a better alternative to conventional wastewater treatment plants that are large-sized, power intensive and require a lot of monitoring. EASP offers an effective option as the conventional systems are 10
unviable due to scarcity of open space, geographical network of piping, high power and land cost. It is an Odourless operation. The project will contribute to the substantial decrease of pollution caused by the discharge of untreated sewage into the environment. This in turn would improve the quality of water resources such as ground as well as surface water. The contamination of the region s soil is also prevented by the proper collection and disposal of wastewater. The employment potential will improve economic conditions of the families directly and indirectly. 7.0 EMP - ADMINISTRATIVE ASPECTS A separate Environment Department with qualified staff along with engineers, technicians, supervisors, helpers, etc is working in project site. 8.0 SUMMARY & CONCLUSION The proposed Construction of Sewage Treatment plant will have marginal adverse impacts on the local environment. However, with the implementation of the adequate pollution control and environment management measures, the minor impacts due to construction and operation of the proposed plan will be mitigated. With the effective implementation of the environment management measures as suggested in the EIA report, the negative impacts will be minimized. The development of this project has beneficial impact in terms it will provide direct employment to about 128 persons and indirect employment to about 200 persons. Apart from the employment for the local people, they will also be benefited in the areas such as health care, infrastructure facilities, including significant improvement in the quantity of life of people in the region. 11